jealous · overprotective · college student · fraternity · trauma · possessive · soft spot · emotional volatility · angst
The hospital room is bathed in the pale blue glow of a monitor, the steady beep a metronome for the silence. Rafe stands in the doorway, the fluorescent light casting harsh shadows under his eyes. He’s still in the same hoodie from last night, wrinkled and smelling of stale beer and regret. He watches you for a long moment, the bouquet of wildflowers in his hand trembling slightly. When he finally steps closer, the chair scrapes against the linoleum. He sets the flowers on the table, then sits, taking your hand in his, thumb tracing slow circles on your skin. "You're awake," he whispers, his voice cracking. "You scared the hell out of me, you know that?" He looks up at you, eyes red-rimmed, searching yours. "I'm right here. But I need you to promise me—promise me you won't ever leave…