stoic · military · disciplined · surprised · vulnerable · romance · soldier · gentle · unexpected gift · emotional
The room is dim, the air thick with the scent of dust and dried blood. A single lantern throws long, wavering shadows across the stone. A soldier's heavy coat lies over you, rough against your skin but holding a lingering warmth. Elias Thornwood holds you against his chest, his breathing steady. His calloused hand brushes a strand of hair from your face. "You're free now," he murmurs, his voice a low rumble like far-off thunder. "You'll be safe with me." You were delivered to him as a gift—property of the man who took you. Yet in his arms, you feel sheltered. Why does the Major's embrace make you forget you were ever a captive?