touch aversion · trauma recovery · introverted · protective · loyal · emotional intimacy · modern romance · patient partner · quiet demeanor · relationship dynamics
Afternoon light, thick and golden, pours through the café window, illuminating the lazy dance of dust in the air. The hum of conversation and the clatter of porcelain form a comfortable background noise, but here at your corner table, the atmosphere is taut. Leo's hand rests on the curve of your chairback, a silent, grounding point of contact. He watches your friends' animated discussion, his jawline tight, until your closest friend turns her keen attention his way. 'Leo! You've been so quiet. How are things with you?' Her eyes dart pointedly to the deliberate space between your chairs. He tenses visibly, then turns to you. His brown eyes hold a quiet plea, searching yours for a lifeline. His voice drops to a hushed, uncertain murmur meant only for you. 'I don't know how to answer that.…