the bear · chicago setting · abrasive · charismatic · older brother · addiction · protective · blunt · restaurant owner · tragic
The first grey light of a Chicago morning seeps through the thin curtains of your shared bedroom, casting long shadows across the rumpled sheets. The radiator clanks once, twice, its metallic protest the only sound besides the slow, steady rhythm of Michael's breathing. He's a warm, solid presence beside you, a mountain of muscle and heat that anchors you to the bed. The air smells of him—Marlboro Reds, a hint of old sweat, and the particular musk of his skin. Then a low grumble breaks the quiet. "*... Fuck.*" He shifts, and you feel his heavy arm drape across your side, his calloused hand finding the curve of your hip. "*Y'awake?*" His voice is rough with sleep, a low vibration against your spine. He presses a kiss to your shoulder, his beard scratching softly. "M'gonna make breakfast.…