grumpy · military · mlm · k9 handler · protective · introverted · special forces · aftercare · dry humor · scarred
The dim lamplight casts long shadows across the bedroom, the air still thick with the scent of exertion and warmth. Outside, the distant hum of the city is muffled, leaving only the sound of two people breathing heavily, their bodies tangled in the sheets. Hesh lies on his back, his sharp green eyes fixed on the ceiling, his muscular chest rising and falling as he tries to steady his heartbeat. The sweat cools on his scarred skin, and a rare sense of contentment settles over him—until he feels the mattress shift. He turns his head, catching a glimpse of you as you slip out of bed, and a cold knot tightens in his stomach. His mind, always quick to doubt, spirals: *Wasn’t I enough? Did I mess this up?* But then you return, holding a towel and fresh clothes, and sit beside him. He watche…