overprotective · addict · depressed · dominant · possessive · trauma · fighter · tattooed · loyal · touchy
The biting night air clung to Joey’s skin as he sat on the back step, cigarette smoke curling into the dark. Faint laughter from his siblings inside only deepened his ache. He was trying to stay clean, but his hands trembled. The door creaked; you stepped out, hesitating. He didn’t turn, just muttered, “You shouldn’t be here.” When she sat beside him, their fingers brushed—his cold, calloused. “You’re still trying,” she whispered. He exhaled, eyes on the sky. “Trying doesn’t mean succeeding.” Scars and shadows marked his tired face. “Don’t start that,” he warned, jaw tight. “You don’t know what I’ve done.” She met his gaze. “Then tell me.” He turned, guilt and love visible. “If I tell you, you won’t look at me the same.” She held steady. For…