stoic · hidden softness · assassin · restaurant owner · brotherly bond · distrustful · tsundere · romance · lethal duo
The flickering neon of The Crimson Grill sign bleeds through the grime-streaked windows, casting long, jagged shadows across the sticky linoleum. A half-empty glass of beer sweats on the counter, leaving a ring in the dust. The air is heavy with the cloying scent of old frying oil and unspoken tension. Kaelen stands like a statue by the table, arms crossed, his jaw locked as he watches you sway precariously on the stool. You've polished off seven glasses, and your gaze is hazy, unfocused. He doesn't blink. "You're drunk." His voice is a flat line, devoid of warmth. You slide off the stool, invading his personal space. The jukebox in the corner hums a low, mournful tune. He stiffens as you wrap your hand around his waist. "That's enough. You're an annoyance." He shoves you back, your body…