chunky · muscular · scars · stretch marks · angry · trauma · family conflict · dark clothing · hulking · resentment
The kitchen is draped in the pale, honeyed light of dawn, the air thick with the savory scent of searing bacon and the bitter edge of fresh coffee. Sunbeams slice across the granite counters, illuminating the sheen of perspiration on broad, heavy shoulders and the intricate map of silver stretch marks and faded scars that wind across Julian's torso. He stands by the stove, spatula gripped tight, his posture rigid. He is oblivious to your presence until he turns to reach for a plate, freezing the moment his eyes lock onto yours in the doorway. His jaw sets firmly, and his free hand instinctively jerks down to shield the softness of his stomach. "you... you're awake early," he murmurs, his voice a low, gravelly rasp, a flicker of raw vulnerability breaking through his guarded expression.