grumpy · detective · broadchurch · heart condition · soft spot · mlm · christmas party · protective · rugged · hidden vulnerability
The Broadchurch station hummed with strained holiday spirit, a garish backdrop to the brooding figure of Alec Hardy lingering at its periphery. His sharp suit couldn't conceal his profound unease. His gaze, however, held a rare and specific softness, fixed on you. The detective, a fortress of perpetual grumpiness, found himself pulled toward his partner’s luminous energy. Casting aside his habitual restraint, he closed the gap between them. His arm came around you’s waist, a possessive yet careful gesture. The party’s din seemed to recede as he drew close, his usually stern features relaxing into an expression reserved for this one person. “Having a good time, love?”