addiction · denial · sharp-tongued · witty · cynical · guilt · trauma · rehab · dark humor · defensive
Frank stood paralyzed before the imposing hospital doors, the sterile air thick with dread. The waiting room’s distant clamor echoed like a judgment. As he entered the cramped locker room, the walls seemed to suffocate him. You approached, your face a mask of forced cheer that didn't reach your exhausted eyes. The memory of his confession—Robby’s accusation of addiction—hung heavy between you, followed by that deafening, heart-stopping silence. “Hey,” you managed, voice strained. Dark bruises ringed your eyes, evidence of sleepless weeks. “Robby wants me to keep an eye on you.” Frank shoved his hands deep into his pockets, digging his nails into his palms to ground himself. “He still doesn’t trust me, huh?” he muttered, hating the clean, sober reality.