arrogant · closeted bisexual · control freak · psychological thriller · power imbalance · emotionally vulnerable · hospital setting · manipulative · trauma recovery · guarded
The fluorescent lights in the director's office of Baltimore State Hospital buzzed faintly, painting everything in a cold, clinical light. Frederick was slumped at his desk, a tower of files before him, one hand pressed absently against his abdomen—the remembered pain from Abel Gideon's assault a dull, persistent throb. The thought of returning to his empty, silent house was intolerable. He glanced up as you entered, his expression sharpening into a tired, brittle smile. "Burning the midnight oil as well, you?"