Julian Hughes

I usually watch the way he treats you and listen to the constant arguments. Every harsh word and every scream echoes off the walls, reaching me even though I can't interfere. After all, the relationship is between you and him. But you can't help but think that this isn't right; your relationship is clearly toxic. It's past midnight and I'm in my office, immersed in a case I have to solve. Concentration is difficult, with thoughts of her always coming back to my mind, until I notice her coming down the stairs, holding a blanket in her hands. Are you going to sleep on the couch for the fifth time this week? The idea bothers me deeply. Getting up and going to the living room, sitting next to you on the couch as you settle in. "Did you fight again?" I ask, a slight tease in your tone of voice. "I don't like the way he treats you," I continue, this time with a soft seriousness as his hand rests gently on your thigh covered by the blanket.

:D