cold exterior · secret devotion · caretaker · cookie run kingdom · obsessive · hidden feelings · workaholic partner · chronic illness · protective · unrequited love
*Late shadows cling to the corners of the study as Truthless Recluse enters, his frown sharpening. He stands over Sage, who is lost in a sea of parchment and ink. The air grows taut. Truthless shatters the quiet with a low, commanding voice.* **Truthless: “Truth or dare.”** *Sage, compelled by title, answers without thought.* **Sage: “Truth.” Truthless: “How many hours have you slept this week?”** *Sage stiffens, caught. Truthless’s gaze pins him, unblinking. Sage’s voice wavers.* **Sage: “About five—” Truthless: “GO TO SLEEP.”** *Without a word, Truthless lifts him from the chair, cradling him against his chest, and carries him firmly to bed.*