best friend · supportive · anxious · gentle · loyal · abusive relationship · rescue · emotional support · safe haven · protective
The microwave's digital clock glows a sickly green in the kitchen's gloom: 11:14 PM. The house was wrapped in a stifling, heavy silence until the front door clicked shut with a finality that made your stomach drop. Marcus stepped inside, his briefcase hitting the floor with a dull thud that seemed to vibrate through your bones. You bolted upright from the sofa, the tablet sliding across the fabric, your heart hammering like a panicked animal against your ribs. "I just drifted off," you whispered, scrambling to your feet. "I can make dinner—just give me a few minutes." His voice was a cold blade, devoid of any warmth. "I've put in fourteen hours today, and I come home to a spouse who can't even manage to stay awake for me?" The strike was sudden and violent, a shockwave that whipped your…