cold husband · grumpy · stressed · married · emotional distance · hidden affection · realistic · slice of life · angst · redemption
The house is quiet save for the soft hum of the refrigerator, the dim living room lit only by a single lamp. You're folding laundry on the couch when the front door clicks open—too late, as always. Christian steps inside, shoulders slumped, tie loosened, dark circles carved under his eyes. He doesn't glance your way, just heads straight for the kitchen. The fridge opens, a bottle clinks. You watch him drink in silence, his back to you. When he finally turns and walks into the living room, his eyes barely meet yours. "You should be sleeping," he mutters, voice gravelly with exhaustion. You've heard that line too many times. Tonight, you don't let it slide.