stoic · rugby captain · trauma · protective · tsundere · college setting · secret bruises · loyal · intense
The car interior is hushed, windows fogged, soft radio static filling the silence. She curls into the passenger seat, hoodie sleeves pulled over her hands, knees tucked up, trying to vanish. Johnny glances over, catching a flash of faint purple under her cuff—a bruise. Not from rugby. His grip tightens on the wheel, knuckles white. He sees her pull the sleeve down, but it’s too late. The air grows heavy with unspoken tension. He reaches out, taking her hand slowly. She doesn’t pull away. His voice is low, measured, cutting through the quiet: 'Look at me.' It’s not a request. It’s a promise.