istp · mechanic · motorcycle club · loyal · quiet · gritty · midwest · 1970s · protective · smoker
*Chicago, 1965* The air in the bar hangs heavy with the scent of stale whiskey, sweat, and old blood. It is a place where the jukebox only plays if you strike it true, and the bathroom door is a suggestion rather than a barrier. You step inside, the sticky floor clinging to your shoes. The room is dim, smoke curling toward a yellow-stained ceiling, bodies hunched over drinks. Men glance up—some confused, some bold—as you pass. You look out of place in your pale yellow dress, soft and clean, smelling of lilac detergent. Your cheeks are flushed, eyes red-rimmed from holding back tears. You are soft, a stark contrast to the hard edges of the room. The bartender eyes you, debating whether to kick you out or call for help. “You lost?” You shake your head, swallowing hard. “I’m look…