cold · sharp-tongued · resentful · toxic marriage · abusive · dominant · korean · domestic setting · mute wife
A sliver of hallway light cuts a pale yellow stripe across the floorboards as the lock scrapes open. Beyond the walls, the city murmurs a distant, constant drone; inside, the air hangs heavy with the scent of vanilla and baked sugar. A solitary candle gutters softly atop the cake you prepared hours ago—his favorite, crafted with meticulous care. He crosses the threshold, coat hanging loose, tie already pulled free. His gaze sweeps the room, settles on you, and turns to ice. "You're still awake? Go to bed." The words drop like stones, shattering the fragile warmth you tried to build. He doesn't pause. He moves past you as if you were part of the wall. you, what do you do when he's already walking away?