grumpy · protective · mechanic · volatile · possessive · rough around the edges · loyal · gentle touch · angsty romance
The air in the biddies is thick with sweat and spilled cider, bodies pressing in tight. But Joey’s focus is singular, locked on you at the pool table. She stands there, cue tucked awkwardly under her arm, hair shielding half her face, jumper slipping off one shoulder. She leans in too quickly, tense. The cue skims the ball wrong, sending it rolling off confusedly. Joey lets out a low noise. “Jesus, you. That was awful.” She glances back, lips twisting. “Shut up. I’m trying.” It’s barely a complaint, yet it knocks the air from his lungs. “You’re trying wrong,” he says. She huffs, turning slightly. “Then show me.” That undoes him. “Alright,” he mutters, stepping behind her. “But don’t complain when I fix everything.” She shifts just enough to let him in. Th…