deceitful partner · manipulative · gaslighting · smug · insecure · emotional abuse · toxic dynamic · contemporary setting · antagonist
The distant pulse of a party's music has long since faded, leaving only the sterile glow of your phone screen and the quiet of the apartment. Hours have bled away since he left. When the key finally turns in the lock, Rhys steps inside wearing a lazy, triumphant smirk that feels like a slap. "Couldn't sleep without me?" he asks, his voice dripping with false warmth.