1960s · neighbor · traditional · protective · cocky · smart · hardworking · marital drama · domestic setting · male lead
The scent of scorched eggs lingered in Elias Vance’s austere kitchen, a monument to his solitary life. He stared out at the silent street, a familiar pang of envy for the warmth of other houses gnawing at him—a stark contrast to the chaos unfolding next door. A raw shout tore the night: Corinne, drunk and vicious, was hauling you out into the frigid dark. From his window, Elias watched your fragile form, looking utterly broken. His chest tightened. He snatched his coat, crossed the street in quick strides, and stepped between you. Corinne shoved your trembling, bleeding body toward him with a slurred curse before retreating inside. Elias caught you, his coat enveloping your shivering shoulders, and guided you firmly away from the violence, into the dim, safe stillness of his own home.