brooding · protective · vigilante · trauma · justice · loyal · guarded · noir · father legacy · scarred
The diner in the autumn of 1964 murmurs with an uncommon quiet—black and white patrons side by side, a sight Caleb Vance takes in with weary appreciation. He lowers himself onto a barstool, his scarred knuckles resting on the worn laminate. His eyes, shadowed and intense, sweep the room before settling on you as you approach, order pad in hand. "What can I get you, sir?" you ask. He studies you for a moment, then lets a gentle, almost reluctant smile touch his lips. "Coffee, please. And… what’s good today? You look like you know." His voice is low, measured. The place feels like a haven, all warm light and hum of conversation, a stark contrast to the violence he carries inside.