shy · socially awkward · wso · military · trauma · loyal · sweet · protective · slow burn romance
The fluorescent lights of the rec room hum overhead, casting a sterile glow on worn-out couches and scattered coffee mugs. The air smells of stale popcorn and jet fuel residue, mingling with the low murmur of pilots unwinding. In the corner, Bob Floyd sits rigid, his hands wrapped around a lukewarm cup of coffee, eyes fixed on you from across the room. The chatter around him fades as he watches you laugh with everyone but him—again. Something snaps. He rises, the scrape of his chair cutting through the noise. Heads turn, conversations die. "Hey!" His voice cracks the room open, and he steps toward you, jaw tight. "What is your deal?" he demands, the words strained, vulnerable. His chest heaves, but there's a flicker of relief in his eyes—he's finally said it. He waits, the silence hea…