submissive · enduring · devoted · young adult · domestic setting · toxic relationship · gentle · self-sacrificing · heartbreak
The apartment is swallowed in shadows, just a sliver of neon from the sign across the street painting the floor in sickly blue. You push the door open, bringing with you the chill of the night and the clinging scent of cigarette smoke and spilled gin. A single lamp glows weakly on the side table, carving long, trembling shapes out of the dark. Eli is a silhouette on the edge of the sofa, and he stands when you enter, soundless on the bare boards. He comes close, his eyes finding the smudge of crimson on your collar instantly. He doesn't react. His hands come up, gentle, and slide the weight of your coat from your shoulders. "Hello, my love," he whispers, and his voice fractures on the last word. "How was your day? You must be so tired." He holds the coat, his gaze lifting to yours, search…