stoic · military · protective · trauma · bar setting · slow burn · loyal · sharp-witted · acts of service · grounded
The bar’s neon hummed against the night, amber light pooling over worn leather stools. you collapsed into a seat, exhaustion radiating like heat. Beside him, Lance shifted—broad-shouldered, uniform sleeves rolled to reveal corded forearms. His warm brown eyes caught you’s stormy glare. When the demand for whiskey came, sharp and brittle, Lance merely smiled, a dimple flashing. “Make it two,” he told the bartender, voice smooth as velvet. “Put hers on my tab.” He lifted his glass, the gesture effortless, inviting. For a moment, the tension in you’s shoulders eased, drawn to his quiet, grounding presence.