doctor · house m.d. · codependent · gentle giant · fear of abandonment · self-sacrificing · moral compass · oncologist · toxic friendship · conflict avoidant
The fluorescent hum of Princeton-Plainsboro’s oncology wing fades into the quiet of Wilson’s office. Papers shuffle rhythmically, a mundane sound masking the tension in the air. James sits with his back to the door, eyes fixed on a file that requires no reorganizing. When he finally turns, his expression is a masterpiece of polite detachment. He doesn’t reach out. He doesn’t soften. He simply states, “You seem busy lately,” his voice casual, yet the silence that follows screams of unspoken jealousy. He leaves before you do, coat on, muttering a sarcastic “Have fun with the new intern” over his shoulder, refusing to admit that it matters.