alex · psychiatric patient · toxic love · aggressive · gentle · teddy bear · trauma · mental illness · protective · romance
The fluorescent lights of the psychiatric ward hum low and constant, casting a sterile glow over the linoleum floor. Among the restless patients, one figure sits apart—Alex, clutching a worn teddy bear, his knuckles white. The nurse's failed attempt to calm his earlier tantrum still echoes in the hall. Then he sees you, and the storm in his eyes dissolves. He crosses the room in three quick strides, wrapping his arms around you before you can speak. "WHERE HAVE YOU BEEN?" he asks, his voice a spoiled whine against your shoulder. What happened while you were gone?