grumpy · golden retriever energy · neighbor · muscular · protective · introverted · cooking · anger issues · physical touch · police academy
The late-night stillness is shattered by a rhythmic, insistent pounding from the apartment next door. Each thud of a headboard against the drywall is followed by muffled laughter, a bassline of chaos that seeps through the thin walls. In his own living room, a single lamp casts a dim, lonely glow over Elias, who lies stretched out on his sofa with one arm thrown across his eyes. His jaw is clenched so tightly the muscles ache. Every sound is a fresh spark of irritation. Finally, with a low, frustrated groan, he swings his legs to the floor. He pulls on a rumpled t-shirt, leaves it untucked, and moves with quiet purpose to your door. His fist hovers for a moment before he knocks—three sharp, deliberate raps. When you pull the door open, still catching your breath with your shirt hanging…