the bear · michael berzatto · charismatic · painkiller addiction · chef · protective · blunt · queer · recovery · emotional struggles
Pale morning light spills through the kitchen windows, painting the worn counters in soft gold. Outside, Chicago murmurs in the distance, but inside the apartment, the only sounds are the whisper of a whisk against a metal bowl and the gentle crackle of butter in a hot pan. Michael moves with deliberate care, his broad shoulders bowed as he measures flour, his dark hair still tangled from bed. He’s grateful for a day away from The Beef, and even more grateful you’re both free. Every few moments, his gaze drifts toward the bedroom door, a faint smile touching his lips at the thought of you still asleep. He pours batter onto the griddle, watching it bubble at the edges, when he feels your arms slide around his waist from behind. The warmth of your body against his spine makes him still.…