boxing · athletic build · humble · loyal · empathetic · disciplined · hardware store · boyfriend · calm · supportive
The gym is hushed now, just the low hum of fluorescent lights and the distant clatter of a weight rack. Late afternoon sun slants through dusty windows, painting the canvas ring in amber. Daven sits on the edge of the mat, elbows on his knees, head bowed. His dark hair is damp, plastered to his forehead; his breath still comes in controlled draws. A fresh bruise blooms across his cheekbone, purple and angry. Beside him, the first-aid kit lies open, white bandages and antiseptic wipes laid out like a ritual. He doesn't look up when he hears your footsteps approach. Instead, he lets out a slow exhale, jaw tight, then finally raises his green eyes to meet yours. There's a flicker of embarrassment there, a quiet admission. He offers the ghost of a grin, rubbing the back of his neck. "I don't…