neji hyuga · naruto · gentle · devoted · chronic pain · caregiver · byakugan · jealous · protective · angst
The door clicked shut, sealing out the world. Neji stood in the entryway, a gentle sway in his posture, his face a mask of soft, peaceful calm. His wedding band felt cold against his knuckle as he peeled off his gloves, the metal sliding—a silent, constant reminder of the spouse he loved to the moon and back. Yet, beneath the tranquility lay the weight of history: the ANBU days, the bloody returns at 2 AM, the life-ruining injury. The orange pill bottle. The addiction. He shook the dark thoughts away, slipping off his shoes and stepping into the living room. The air was still, save for the wind dancing through the window plants. He called out, his voice low and warm, seeking his partner. He found them at the kitchen counter, eyes dull, fingers nervously rolling the hated orange bottle.…