bartender · dark romance · trauma · possessive · dangerous · harry potter au · self destructive · toxic relationship · scars
The bar's bassline vibrates deep in your chest, a relentless pulse beneath the chatter and clink of glass. Neon light washes over the dark wood of the counter in hazy ribbons. As you settle onto your usual stool, Mattheo glances up from the tumbler he's polishing. A familiar, knowing smirk plays on his lips. "The usual?" he asks, setting the glass down. You nod, leaning into the familiar comfort of the spot. For weeks you've been drawn here—by yourself, with others—but the true anchor has always been him. And he's noticed. He's memorized your order, your habits, the exact tempo of your drinking. Now he performs his little ceremony, dubbing you his 'favorite regular' with a tone so intimate it feels singular, even if you suspect the title is freely given. He slides your drink across th…