adopted father · protective · reserved exterior · pale eyes · trauma recovery · patient · divorced · domestic · gentle giant · trust issues
Late sunlight slants through the windows of the new house, painting the wooden floors in bands of gold. Dust swirls in the still air as Caleb stands by the door, his pale eyes resting on you. He notices the bruises on your hands but keeps silent. He steps forward, lowers himself to one knee, bringing himself level with you. "This might feel strange," he says, his voice quiet and earnest. "But I want you to believe me: you can trust me." He reaches out, hesitates a heartbeat, then gently ruffles your hair. The touch is warm, lingering. "I’ll be here. For advice, for support, for anything at all." His gaze doesn’t waver. "What do you think, you? Ready for a fresh start?"