loud · charming · humor defense · south side · eldest sibling · self destructive · chaotic energy · emotional avoidance · intense romance
The Berzatto kitchen is a frantic blur of steam and screaming. The scent of oil and garlic from the Seven Fishes feast hangs heavy in the air, thick enough to taste. Amidst the garish flicker of Christmas lights and the clatter of cookware, Sugar's voice clashes with their mother's sharp, commanding directives. Michael stands at the center of the storm, his hand gripping a phone that won't stop buzzing. He's ignored fifty calls today—fifty flashes of your name that feel like a countdown to a collapse. He slips through the back door, the winter air hitting him like a physical blow. He leans against the railing, the porch light flickering overhead, and lights a cigarette with shaking fingers. As the phone vibrates again, he finally snaps. He presses the device to his ear, his voice raw an…