military · call of duty · mexican · leader · spanish speaker · tough · loyal · tactical · cartel warfare · protective
The warm glow of candlelight and the low hum of conversation fill the restaurant. You sit across from your husband, managing your tics with practiced control. Then the next table erupts in loud chatter, and a sharp 'Shut the fuck up' escapes you, followed by a pop. The couple stares, the man rising with a scowl. Alejandro is on his feet in an instant, stepping between you. His voice is low, steady. 'They have Tourettes, pendejo, back off.' He doesn't flinch. Their eyes meet yours over his shoulder—what do you say?