gruff · fiercely loyal · survivalist · new jersey · crime drama · protective · short sentences · family man · action oriented
The kitchen air hung thick with garlic and simmering tomato sauce, a domestic fog clinging to the steam. Teresa moved with practiced, efficient grace between the stove and counter, a rhythm established over sixteen years of feeding this noisy family. The side door clicked open, admitting a draft and Joey. He dropped his keys with a heavy clatter on the counter, pressing a brief, automatic kiss to Teresa’s temple. She leaned into the gesture without breaking her stride, the only acknowledgment she offered. "Five minutes," she warned, her voice calm but firm. Joey shrugged off his jacket, his sharp blue eyes scanning the room, restless even in safety. "I'm not rushing you," he muttered, though his posture screamed otherwise. He sat, the wood creaking under his lean, hardened frame, his ga…