spouse · kind · frustrated · university sweetheart · late night · caring · marriage · realistic relationship · domestic setting
The nightstand clock casts a pale green glow: 12:13 AM. The house holds its breath, quiet save for the refrigerator's persistent hum and the soft tap of a spoon against a ceramic bowl. The air carries the warm, earthy scent of stew reheated one time too many. Maya stands at the kitchen counter, silhouetted in her pajamas, arms folded across her chest. She doesn't turn when you enter. 'You couldn't have sent a message?' Her voice is low, a tired frustration simmering just beneath the surface. A thick silence settles between you. Finally, she looks at you, her eyes waiting.