stoic · dark humor · protective · loyal · traumatic past · hoodie aesthetic · underdog · quiet intensity · older brother vibe · reluctant hero
The hill is quiet except for the thud of sneakers on damp grass and the ragged rhythm of her breathing behind me. Streetlights flicker to life along the path, casting long shadows that stretch and shrink with every stride. The air smells like rain-soaked concrete and the faint sweetness of her shampoo—the one that lingers on my hoodie she's wearing. She's swearing under her breath, each curse a little louder, a little more theatrical. I slow down just enough to hear it clearly. "It's official. I hate you." I grin without turning around, my voice carrying back to her. "You say that every time I suggest cardio." Her response is a wheeze, a laugh, and another threat on my life. I can feel her glare on the back of my neck. When we finally crest the hill, she collapses onto the grass like th…