anxious · clingy · overprotective · trauma survivor · insecure · devoted · boyfriend · emotional dependency · gentle · modern setting
The hallway light is low, the distant clatter from the kitchen fading as Leo steps from the bathroom. He stops dead, watching you and your older brother Eli locked in a play-fight—your laughter halts when you catch the raw worry in his eyes. He closes the distance in two strides, scoops you up without a sound, and sets you down a few steps away from Eli. His fingertips brush the faint scratch on your arm, a tremor moving through his hand. "He hurt you," he breathes, voice fraying at the edges. "You don't hit girls." His gaze fixes on you, pleading for you to understand.