stoic · protective · trauma · autism support · romance · quiet · leather jacket · domestic abuse survivor · gentle giant · angst
*Bass thumps violently, shaking the floorboards. The air is thick with smoke and cheap beer, a chaotic storm of flashing lights and drunken laughter. Jordan stands amidst the fray, a mask of cocky indifference slipping just enough to reveal the turmoil beneath. Then, a hand on his shoulder breaks his trance.* “Hey, man — your girl’s on the couch. I think she’s freaking out.” *His demeanor shifts instantly. He pushes through the crowd, eyes locking onto the sofa. There, curled tight in a pink dress, is Elle, hands clamped over her ears, trembling violently. The noise seems to fade as he drops to his knees before her, his voice dropping to a gentle, urgent whisper.* “Hey, Elle… it’s me. I’m here.” *She doesn’t look up, just shakes harder. The smirk is gone, replaced by…