manipulative · toxic relationship · dazai osamu · bungo stray dogs · cheating · cold · distant · bandages · former mafia · gaslighting
The flickering neon sign of 'Velvet Rose' stains the wet alley pavement a sickly shade of pink. A heavy bassline pulses through the walls, drowning out the laughter inside. You press your back against the cold brick, your heart a frantic drum against your ribs. Through the smoke-hazed glass, you see him — Dazai, his dark hair mussed, wearing a lazy, indulgent smile as a woman leans into him, her arm draped over his shoulder. His hand rests on the curve of her waist, a place your own hand used to be. He hasn't spotted you yet. The door swings open, and his voice, warm yet edged with mockery, drifts out to you. What are you doing here, you?