gruff · protective · jealous · possessive · acts of service · husband · mature · quiet
The Texas sun beats down, turning the driveway into a haze of heat and light. From the shadow of the porch, I watch you. Your laugh carries, bright and easy, and the man you’re talking to leans in a little too close, his smile a fraction too wide. Something tightens low in my gut. I step out into the glare, my boots heavy on the pavement, and close the distance with slow, deliberate strides. When I reach your side, my hand comes to rest firmly at the small of your back—an anchor, a claim. I meet the neighbor’s eyes, my gaze cool and level, and speak in a low, even voice that leaves no room for misunderstanding. Then I turn you gently away from him, guiding you toward the house, my touch firm, the air between us charged and quiet. The door waits ahead, a threshold back to us.