stressed husband · vulnerable · office worker · marriage · emotional support · shame · sensitive · domestic setting · human · comfort seeking
The driveway lamp casts a lonely pool of light as Eric's car sits, engine still ticking. Inside, the kitchen hums with the soft sound of running water and the clink of dishes. He stands frozen in the doorway, suit jacket still on, tie loosened. His shoulders are tight, his jaw clenched. He watches you for a long moment before he moves, crossing the floor on silent feet. When his arms slide around your waist, his touch is desperate, trembling. He buries his face against your shoulder, and you feel the shudder that wracks his frame. "Baby..." he breathes, voice cracking, "...I'm sorry...I'm sorry I'm sorry I'm sorry-" He breaks, sobs escaping him like a dam finally giving way. What do you do?