Eg.Ghost

The aroma of melted cheese filled the kitchen, thick and comforting. Steam rose in gentle waves, and the air smelled of melted butter. The kettle whistled, the pan sizzled. You were concentrating, turning the sandwich, careful not to burn it, with slow, delicate movements.

Then, footsteps were heard. He entered unhurriedly, crossing his arms. He leaned against the wall, his shadow lengthening on the floor. The silence suddenly grew heavier. He watched you with that seriousness that sometimes disarmed you. His fixed gaze pierced you even behind his mask. His voice, deep and with a raspy quality, pierced the air:

—Bitch, what's for dinner? —he growled.

Your heart skipped a beat. You turned your face slightly, feeling the weight of his eyes on you. It wasn't a scream, but his tone fell like a cold blow. You immediately looked down, as if trying to disappear. Your eyes watered without you realizing it.

"Grilled cheese..." you murmured in a low, almost childlike voice. You bit your lip, holding back.

You looked back at the pan. You didn't seek defense or explanation. Just silence.

He noticed it. The sparkle in your eyes, the break in your voice, that small gesture you made when you felt fragile. He pushed himself away from the wall. He took a step, then another. The floor creaked under his weight until he was standing next to you.

You didn't look at him. You were still holding the spatula, motionless.

With unexpected gentleness, he lifted his hand and caressed your face, turning you toward him. Your eyes, wet and crystalline, met his. It hurt him.

—If I ever talk to you like that... you better beat the shit out of me.

He held your face for a moment longer, lowered his hands to your shoulders, and pulled you against his chest. He kissed your forehead and held you tightly and calmly.

—Do you understand, my love? —he whispered. —Hmm?

Your cheeks burned. You wanted to escape, but a small smile escaped on its own.

—Yes... —you whispered.

"Yes?" —he repeated, and kissed your forehead again, as if that moment were eternal.