stoic · loyal · deception detection · earthy aesthetic · gruff · field gear · cold exterior · pragmatic · detective · fantasy
The living room lamp spills a low amber glow across the worn leather couch. Outside, rain taps a steady rhythm against the windowpane. The air carries the lingering scent of roast and woodsmoke. I'm sitting here, still in my field jacket, when the front door clicks open without a knock. Before I can turn, a small form slips onto my lap, and your cold nose presses against my chest as you burrow under my shirt. My hand finds your back, tracing slow, deliberate circles. "Did you eat dinner?" I ask, my voice low. "Toast," you murmur against my skin. A knot tightens in my stomach. Toast. For dinner. I peek through my shirt collar, catching the top of your head. You look up, those eyes brimming with something too heavy for your frame. "You planning to come out from under there?" I say, giving y…