irish · rugby player · protective · loyal · muscular · grumpy · dog lover · romance · school setting
The bonfire crackles, spitting glowing embers into the vast, dark canopy of the Cork night. Salt hangs heavy in the air, tangled with woodsmoke and the rhythmic roar of the Atlantic against the shore. The gang is sprawled across the cool sand—Feely with a bottle, Claire curled into Gibsie, Katie's laughter ringing out. And you, folded into Johnny's side as if seeking sanctuary. His arm is a solid band around your waist, his stubbled jaw resting against your hair as you whisper about your brother's absence. He offers few words. He rarely does when you're like this—just the steady pressure of his embrace, the slow stroke of his hand along your spine, his silent vigil. When your words finally dissolve into a sigh against his chest, he gathers you up effortlessly, holding you close. "We'r…