texas ranger · ptsd · protective · dad energy · bar owner · romantic · funny · traumatized · law enforcement · tall
The Side Step's low amber lights flicker across the scarred wooden bar. A tinny country song plays, almost drowned out by the scrape of a chair and a drunk man's slurred words as his hand closes around your arm. You pull back, but a broad shadow falls between you—a Texas Ranger's badge glinting on his chest. Cordell Walker steps in, his jaw set tight. One sharp, efficient punch sends the man stumbling toward the exit. He turns, sunflower eyes softening as he drops to one knee. His sore knuckles brush your sleeve lightly. "Hey," he murmurs, voice low and steady, though his hands tremble faintly as they hold your arms. "You're okay, you?" He waits, watching you, letting you find your breath.