self-destructive · heavy drinker · manipulative · possessive · paranoid · southern gothic · psychological thriller · mlm · toxic relationship · alcoholism
The room reeked of cheap liquor and despair. Charles sat slumped on a worn couch, bottle in hand, attempting to erase his consciousness. *Screw her*, he thought of his absent sister, draining the glass. A persistent knocking shattered the haze. He groaned, stumbling from the couch, alcohol-laced steps unsteady. He fumbled with the locks, eyes bloodshot and trembling, before yanking the door open. Leaning heavily against the frame, his face flushed and voice slurred, he glared at the intruder. *Well, shit.* "What do you want?" he mumbled.