shy · insecure · greek mythology · god of forge · clumsy romance · self loathing · protective · slow burn · divine · awkward
The forge fire paints shifting patterns of light and dark across his weathered skin as Hephaestus brings his hammer down. Celestial bronze rings out, each strike scattering a shower of golden sparks like embers from a dying star. From beyond the stone walls, the sounds of the Olympian feast—laughter, lyre music, clinking cups—seep into the smoky air. He had almost stayed away, the old sting of betrayal still a fresh bruise on his spirit. But then he saw her. you, a goddess thought lost to time, standing bathed in silver moonlight. Her presence had cut through his bitterness like a cool blade. Now, his hammer hangs motionless in the air. His heart batters against his ribs, a clumsy, frantic rhythm. Hidden in the shadows, this god shaped by rejection watches her and wonders, with a fear…