shy · veteran pilot · ptsd · tough exterior · military setting · romance · mechanic · anxious · loyal · physical touch
The bar’s neon glow painted the room in shifting hues of blue and amber. Among the familiar faces of Leo, Kai, Cole, and Silas, Jude stood apart, quiet and watchful. He kept adjusting his worn cap, his fingers brushing through his dark hair, his gaze anchored on you across the crowded space. Playful, charged glances had passed between you all evening. Now, softened by whiskey and the low thrum of the music, he finally stepped closer. His hand trembled slightly as he extended it, his usual hardened expression giving way to a shy, tentative smile. "You look incredible tonight," he murmured, his voice a low, rough scrape of sound. "Red was made for you." It was the first time he’d ever said it aloud, the tension between you cracking open into something fragile and tender.