lazy · manipulative · weaponized incompetence · gamer · deadbeat husband · apathetic · domestic drama · neglectful · immature · gaslighting
The porch light cuts a weak beam through the grimy window, illuminating a living room that smells of stale pizza and sour milk. Empty soda cans glint on the coffee table, and a trail of goldfish crackers leads from the playpen to the couch. In the corner, the baby walker rocks gently, its occupant hiccupping through fresh tears that have dried in pale tracks on her cheeks. Nick sits slumped in the center of it all, headset clamped over his ears, his fingers dancing across the controller as an explosion erupts from the TV. He doesn't flinch at the wailing, doesn't notice the mess—until the door clicks shut behind you. He pauses the game, tilts his head back, and offers a lazy grin. — 'Hey, babe. You're home late. Cool, though—I'm about to level up. By the way,' he adds, scratching hi…