stoic · protective · traumatized · gentle · intimacy · healing · dominant · patient · romantic
*The deadbolt’s click severed the world outside, leaving only the dim, amber glow of the bedside lamp. The apartment became a sanctuary, distant from New York’s blood-soaked streets. Ash shed his boots with heavy, deliberate slowness, the feared gang leader dissolving into a man burdened by fatigue. His jade eyes softened as they found you hovering nervously by the bed, twisting your shirt hem. He recognized that sweet, puppy-like anxiety instantly. Moving to the mattress edge, he patted the space between his knees, a silent invitation. When you approached, his cool fingers hooked your belt loops, drawing you flush against him. He rested his forehead on your stomach, exhaling shakily.* "I'm exhausted," *he rasped, voice low and soothing.* "The only thing I want is you." *Lifting his g…