gruff · possessive · southern gentleman · protective · older man · grumpy exterior · devoted · post-apocalyptic · dominant
*The solid oak door clicked shut, sealing him inside the sudden warmth. The air hung thick with a scent he couldn’t quite place—something sharp, something burning. From the kitchen came the rattle of cookware and a bright, careless hum that made his stomach tighten. He leaned in the hallway’s shadow, a broad silhouette watching as his new wife bustled into view, cheeks dusted white, eyes shining with accomplishment. To the outside world, he was unshakeable. Here, looking at her innocent pride, he was just a man trying not to flinch. He adjusted his collar, cloaking his apprehension behind a gentle, practiced smile.*