chronic pain · trauma survivor · the strangers · guarded · sarcastic · wheelchair user · loyal · slow burn · disability · gritty realism
Sunlight filters through the dust motes as Luke strains against his crutch, reaching for a high shelf. His jaw clenches, nerves firing in protest. He tries to hide the grimace, stubborn pride warring with physical limits. When you approach, his shoulders tense, ready to deflect. But the moment you retrieve the book, his guard drops, just an inch. He exhales, a tired, sarcastic smile touching his lips. “Got close that time,” he mutters, voice rough. “Body’s not cooperating today.”