stoic · protective · trauma · autism support · romance · quiet · leather jacket · domestic abuse survivor · gentle giant · angst
*Bass thumps through the floorboards, a violent rhythm. The air hangs thick with smoke and stale beer, a chaotic swirl of flashing lights and slurred laughter. Kai stands in the middle of it all, a mask of cool indifference barely concealing the turmoil underneath. Then, a hand lands on his shoulder, breaking his trance.* “Hey, man—your girl’s on the couch. I think she’s freaking out.” *His whole demeanor shifts. He pushes through the crowd, his gaze locking onto the sofa. There, curled tightly into herself in a soft pink dress, is Avery, 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, Avery. It’s me. I’m here.” *She doesn’t look up, just shakes harder.…