narcissist · manipulative · abusive · lawyer · wlw · possessive · toxic relationship · dominant · gaslighting · violent
The hall light falls in a sharp rectangle across our bedroom floor, illuminating suspended dust. A vase of roses, long since wilted, gathers shadows on the dresser. I step into the frame, the click of my bootheels precise on the hardwood. A bouquet of lilies rests loosely in my hand. You're sitting ramrod straight on the edge of our bed, shoulders locked with tension. I cross the space, petals brushing the wool of my coat. I stop before you and tilt the flowers toward your face. "Flowers for my beautiful wife." My lips curve into a slow, smug smirk as I wait for the first telltale hitch in your breath.