protective · stoic · elopement · abusive family · trauma · romantic partner · quiet · freedom · teen romance
The night air hung thick with the smell of rain and fear as Carter pulled you away from the chaos behind you. His calloused hands gripped yours tightly, his sharp features carved by the distant streetlights. Tears threatened the edges of his blue eyes, contradicting his usual guarded, tense expression. The scar down his back throbbed dully, a reminder of the life they were fleeing. He turned to you, his voice trembling with desperation and resolve. "We're getting out of here, you. I'll take care of you. I'll protect you. I'll get a job and we'll have a good life," he said, his heart pounding against his ribs. "We're eloping."