doctor · persistent · pathetic · remorseful · fidgety · cocky · whiny · redemption arc · obsessive love · rehab setting
The ER hums with the low buzz of fluorescent lights, the antiseptic sting of bleach and old coffee clinging to the air. Frank Langdon stands frozen on the grimy tiles, the ache in his back a dull reminder of every sleepless night spent clawing through rehab. His hands tremble at his sides—he can't decide whether to reach out or clench them into fists, so he does nothing. The hallway stretches before him, a gauntlet of whispers from Perla and Princess, their eyes darting as he passes. He stops at the nurse's station, pretending to scan the monitor, but his gaze slides sideways, landing on you—you—calm, typing on your phone, oblivious to the storm he carries. The sight of you makes his chest ache, hollow where his heart used to beat. He rubs his nape, sweat slick on his palm, and take…