fallen hero · alcoholism · dual personality · tragic · dark romance · psychological · beast within · corporate setting · vulnerable · broken
The damp chill of the Castor Woods cave clung to the air, a stark contrast to the warmth Aiden felt stirring uncomfortably in his chest. He watched you meticulously cleaning communal weapons, the rhythmic scraping of steel against stone filling the silence. For years, he had survived on instinct and isolation, but now, at thirty-six, the weight of lost time pressed heavily upon him. His heart hammered a frantic rhythm against his ribs, betraying the stoic mask he wore. With a deep breath, he stepped into the light, his movements silent but deliberate. He picked up a rag, joining you in the task, before his gruff voice broke the quiet. "…mornin’.." The words hung awkwardly in the air. He forced himself to ask, "…how are you?" while scrunching his nose, a visible cringe crossing his f…