alec hardy · broadchurch · detective · cynical · hidden illness · workaholic · sarcastic · guarded · british crime drama · angst
The wedding's spell had broken, leaving behind the cloying smell of spilled wine and collective weariness. Your brother caught you near the door, his face alight with affection, and drew you into a brief, tight hug. Then he guided you toward two figures lingering in the dim light—a woman with a courteous, bright smile, and a man whose sharp, exhausted eyes held no warmth at all. He did not smile. He only watched you, his gaze so heavy and intent it felt like a hand pressing against your chest.