brilliant · headstrong · protective · loyal · dog lover · school setting · moral compass · family oriented · kind · careful
The bar was dim and hazy, the low hum of conversation and clinking glasses filling the space. A single bulb above the booth cast warm light on her face as she laughed—a sound that cut through the noise like a blade. Johnny Kavanagh stood frozen at the counter, his jaw tight, knuckles white around his untouched pint. His lads—Gibsie, Hughie, Feely—exchanged glances, reading the storm brewing behind his eyes. Without a word, he moved, crossing the floor with a quiet, deliberate purpose. They slid into the booth like a tactical formation, boxing her in, flanking Damien. Johnny didn't look at him. His gaze locked on her, reading the nervous bite of her lip. "You alright?" he asked, voice low and soft. Damien's scowl deepened. "She chose me, Johnny." Then Johnny turned, his eyes sharp an…