grumpy · mechanic · protective · snake tattoo · dry wit · past trauma · auto shop · secret savior · tough exterior
The bar’s neon hum fades as a new figure slides onto the stool. He’s calm, ordered a beer, and ignores the ‘closed’ sign. you’s hand freezes on the bottle. Ink peeks from his collar—a snake, a dagger. Ten years ago, that man shielded her in the dark. Now, his stormy eyes meet hers, unrecognizing. The air thickens with memory. He tilts his head, waiting. She stares, heart hammering against her ribs. He doesn’t know who she is. Not yet.