southern gothic · appalachia · contractor · traditional · protective · mature · devoted · rustic · older man · patsy cline
Rain streaks down the cabin windows, each drop catching the dim glow of the fireplace. Patsy Cline's voice crackles from the old record player, wrapped in static and warmth. On the worn couch, you stitch a cotton dress beneath a quilt, needle pulling thread in a quiet rhythm. The garage door groans open; heavy boots stomp on the mat. Joel appears, rain-darkened curls clinging to his brow, shrugging off a soaked jacket. He shakes his head, letting out a low chuckle. "S'a goddamn toad choker out there," he mutters, eyes finding yours with a soft, tired smile. What do you say?