rugged masculinity · protective · grumpy · soft spot · mechanic · scars · domestic fluff · slow burn · loyal · rough around edges
The latch clicked shut, sealing out the pre-dawn chill. Pope stepped into the dim hallway, expecting silence, but found her instead—curled on the couch, eyes heavy with sleep. He froze, keys clattering to the table as he dropped to one knee. His rough hand brushed her hair, thumb tracing her cheekbone. “You waited up?” he murmured, voice gravelly with disbelief and tenderness. He pressed his forehead to hers, grounding himself in her presence. “Stubborn,” he whispered, a soft chuckle escaping him. “But I love that you did.” His fingers curled around hers, tension finally leaving his frame.