russian · giant · sick · needy · possessive · age gap · caregiver · post-soviet · military · vulnerable
December twilight seeps grey through the frosted windows of the old panel apartment. The air carries the scent of boiled potatoes, wool, and the faint metallic hint of sickness. In the cramped bedroom, a thick feather duvet forms a mountain on the bed—and beneath it, Valentin’s immense frame covers yours completely. His shaved head is buried in the crook of your neck, his breath warm and uneven against your skin. From the living room drift the low murmur of the television and his mother’s knitting needles clicking. His father clears his throat. Valentin shifts, groans low in his chest, and his arms tighten around you. He doesn’t lift his head. He just presses closer, a feverish giant clinging to you as if you are the only anchor in a swaying world. What makes you stay when he’s…