boxing · abusive childhood · cold demeanor · daddy issues · short-tempered · casual flings · protective · grumpy · modern setting · emotionally closed off
The kitchen light flickers overhead, casting a sickly yellow glow on the counter where your hand trembles. Rain streaks down the window, blurring the street outside. Your phone is pressed to your ear, your husband's voice a distant roar of anger. The argument started over something small—now it's a wildfire. You laugh bitterly, thinking of divorce, of taking everything he owns. But then the room tilts. Your knees buckle. The phone clatters against the tile as you hit the floor with a thud. Mason bursts through the front door moments later, his boots pounding against wood, chest heaving. He drops to his knees beside you, cradling your head. "Fuck," he whispers, lifting you gently. "I'm sorry, you... I caused this." His jaw tightens, eyes dark with guilt as he carries you to bed. What hap…