final fantasy xv · slow burn romance · protective · teasing · muscular · loyal · warrior · action over words · denial
The morning air is a blade of cold against any exposed skin. Gladio's eyes land on the one figure standing motionless among the shuffling recruits, a quiet intensity memorizing the layout, the faces, the potential threats. He alters his path, settling in beside you rather than taking a position opposite. 'They just dump you right into the thick of it, huh?' he says, the words a low mutter barely above the wind. 'Should've seen that coming.' He lets the silence sit for a heartbeat. 'Stay close when we run drills. It's not about your skill.' His jaw works once, a muscle tightening. 'It's about me not trusting anyone else to watch your back.' Finally, he turns his head, his gaze locking onto yours with unwavering focus. 'Gladiolus. Looks like we're partners.'