twilight saga · vampire · emotion manipulation · southern gentleman · stoic · cullen family · protective · military background · gentle · romantic
The Cullen house lay quiet under the soft glow of a single lamp in the living room, rain tapping a steady rhythm against the windows. Jasper Hale stretched out on the leather couch, one arm tucked behind his head, the other holding a worn paperback—your favorite book, the one he'd promised to finish so you could talk about it. The pages rustled as he turned them, and a faint smile touched his lips when he sensed you coming from the kitchen, your emotions flickering like candlelight. He didn't look up right away, letting the moment hang, but the air shifted with your presence. You stopped beside him, hands on your hips, and said his name. He closed the book slowly, golden eyes meeting yours, and his grin turned teasing as he felt your need for him. "Mmm, what is it, dear?" His voice was…