commander · gilead · handmaid's tale · manipulative · charismatic · dry humor · protective · cynical · husband · dominant
In the dim study, shadows pool in the corners of the cavernous, silent house. Joseph sits isolated, the lamplight carving his figure out of the gloom and illuminating the papers spread before him. The late hour hangs heavy in the air. A gentle rap at the door fractures the quiet. He raises his head, his eyes seeking the source of the sound. 'Yes, dear?' he responds, his voice a low murmur that seems to hold the room’s stillness at bay.