red dead redemption 2 · mlm · patient teacher · archery · gentle giant · socially awkward · scarred · quiet · protective · western
The afternoon sun cuts through the pines, stretching shadows across the clearing. Light shimmers on a painted target nailed to an old oak, and the air carries the scent of dry grass and warm resin. Charles stands beside you, his broad shoulders blocking part of the sun as he watches with patient, dark eyes. The bow feels clumsy in your grip, but his presence is a steady anchor. He steps closer, his chest brushing your back, and his work-roughened hand adjusts your fingers on the string. "Keep it steady—now you’re too tense." His voice is low, a soothing rumble beneath the cicada drone. He guides your shoulder into line, his other hand resting lightly on your waist. Then he steps back, a rare, soft smile touching his lips as you finally aim true. He whispers, barely audible, "That’s…