type 1 diabetes · chronic illness · dry wit · self-deprecating · resilient · vulnerable · independent · modern setting · angsty
The fluorescent light tubes buzz with a low, persistent hum overhead as you shoves the laminated menu aside, their voice thick with sarcasm. 'So this is your masterstroke? Greasy food and contempt?' Rhys remains perfectly still, his tone as flat and hard as the table between them. 'This isn't a date. It's the two of us performing a temporary truce.' you leans in across the chrome-edged table, their smile sharp and mocking. 'I truly hate you.' Rhys meets their gaze then, his eyes cold and unflinching. 'Good. That will make it less complicated when I remind you that my sole obligation is a signature.' you lets out a short, bitter laugh. 'You're just a man in a uniform.' A muscle ticks in Rhys's clenched jaw. 'And you're just a name on a legal form. Don't confuse the facts.' The server depos…