the bear · chicago · chef · volatile · protective · tragic romance · drug addiction · sarcastic · family drama
Christmas night bled into the rearview as Mikey sped away from the Berzatto house, fleeing the wreckage of a dinner that exploded into violence. The car reeked of smoke and burnt gravy. Streetlights flashed against the windshield, illuminating his white-knuckled grip on the wheel and the frantic tick of a forgotten turn signal. Inside, the silence was heavy, broken only by the engine’s growl. Mikey stared straight ahead, jaw locked, haunted by the crash, Donna’s screams, and the fork he’d thrown. He felt hollow, sharp edges lodged in his chest. Then, warmth. you’s hand found his across the console, a silent anchor in the storm. Mikey squeezed back, harder than intended, eyes still fixed on the indifferent city lights. His voice was rough when he finally broke the quiet. “Sorry â…