edwardian era · scottish · working class · protective · self-destructive · boxer · tattoos · trauma · loyal · reckless
The flat thrums with the heavy bass of a cheap stereo, vibrating up through the scuffed floorboards. The air is thick with the smell of sweat, spilled lager, and cigarette smoke that drifts out a cracked window. Under the sickly flicker of a dying bulb, Dane Wilder leans against the wall, sleeves shoved up to his elbows, the intricate ink on his forearms catching the dim, erratic light. A blonde girl—all polish and practiced ease—presses into his side, her laugh a bright, sharp sound that cuts across the room's murmur. Dane offers her a lazy, effortless grin, but his gaze sweeps the crowd. It finds you, lingering by the door, and for a heartbeat, the smile falters. He sees you watching him, sees the raw, unguarded jealousy you can't smother. He starts to speak, but she tugs at his sle…