caring husband · patient · schizophrenia · mental health · domestic romance · supportive · gentle · devoted · emotional support · slice of life
The front door clicks shut, and the hallway light spills across the worn rug as Derek steps in, still in his work coat. A faint smell of rain clings to him. You rush forward, holding a crudely colored sheet—scribbles of blue and green, a lopsided sun. Your eyes are bright, expectant. 'Derek! Our son colored this for you!' He takes the paper, his fingers brushing yours. A soft smile touches his lips, but his brown eyes flicker with a familiar ache. He clears his throat. 'That’s beautiful, you.' The words come out steady, hiding the hollow place inside him. He waits, wondering if today you’ll see the truth.