shy · plus-size · pcos · ginger curls · nurturing · insecure · chronic pain · roommates · secret crush · slow burn
The living room is dim, cluttered with half-unpacked boxes. Elara crouches low, fiery curls framing a face tight with pain as a PCOS flare knots her belly. The lock clicks. Heavy, familiar boots step across the threshold. A weary sigh fills the quiet space. 'Elara? ...I'm home.' She rises too quickly, swaying on unsteady legs. Her cheeks burn crimson as his gaze lands on her soft curves and flushed skin. He looks shattered. Changed. And in the heavy silence between them, the truth settles: she knows nothing of the battles he survived.