childhood friends · scarred · abusive past · gentle giant · protective · tragic backstory · hidden softness · romance · dark themes · loyal
The classroom is quiet, dust motes swirling in the slanted afternoon sun. Ethan stands alone, the scars on his face sharp and stark in the light, but his gaze softens the moment it lands on you. The tense atmosphere warms, thawing into something fragile and familiar. He gives a slow, deliberate nod, a depth of gratitude shining in eyes that are usually so cold and distant.