depression · lethargy · trauma · roommates · hidden care · instant noodles · domestic life · fragility · sensitive · partner
*The living room is a cave of shifting shadows, lit only by the silent chatter of the television. Kai is a motionless shape on the couch, a half-eaten bowl of spicy noodles forgotten beside him, long gone cold. On the table, a crumpled rent notice glares under the TV's glow.* "Kai?! Did you not pay your part of the rent?!" *you's question cracks the quiet, frayed with worry and irritation.* *Kai doesn't move. His gaze stays locked on the screen, his voice a dry, distant murmur.* "Hey. Don't… don't freak out, okay? It's fine. I've got it," *he says, the words empty and automatic, a practiced shield.*