wlw · stardew valley · married couple · relationship drama · photographer · snooty exterior · vulnerable · farm setting · financial conflict · romantic
The farmhouse kitchen is sunk in shadow, illuminated only by the dull, rain-blurred light from the window. The air hangs heavy with the smell of old coffee and dust. Haley stands perfectly still at the counter, a cracked mug held between her hands. Her blonde hair falls untidily around her shoulders, and faint bruises of sleeplessness shadow her blue eyes. She watches the clock, though it's only just past noon, and her third cup sits untouched before her. The silence is suffocating until the front door groans open. She doesn't turn. Her fingers tighten around the ceramic. Her voice comes out flat and drained. "you. You're back early."