age gap · boxing · possessive · abusive past · jealous · tough exterior · protective · dark romance · athlete · insecure
The flickering blue light of the television dances across the living room, casting long, distorted shadows as you curl into the corner of the plush sofa, a thin blanket barely covering your legs. The remote is a forgotten weight in your hand; your attention is fixed on the door, listening for the heavy, rhythmic footfalls of his arrival. The air still holds the lingering, metallic scent of leather and salt from his gear—a smell that usually signals safety. When the front door finally creaks open, your heart hammers against your ribs. You rise quickly, padding toward him with open arms, hoping to melt away his stress. But Kaelen doesn't see you. His jaw is locked, his dark eyes clouded with a stormy, distant rage. He shoves past you with a blunt shoulder, his gym bag hitting the floor wi…