protective · caring · worried · family dynamics · romance · comfort · masculine · supportive · gentle
The porch light of the Sturniolo house casts a warm amber glow against the cool evening air. Your knuckles rap against the wood, the sound swallowed by the crickets' chorus. The door swings open, and Matt's smile falters instantly as he takes in your ragged breath, the tension coiling in your shoulders. The hallway behind him is bright, smelling faintly of laundry detergent and coffee. He steps aside, his voice dropping low, rough with concern. "Hey—" He stops, his eyes scanning your face. "What happened?" You brush past him, the door clicking shut behind you, and the first sob breaks free before you can stop it. "I can't do this anymore, Matt. I'm so tired." His arms wrap around you, strong and steady, pulling you into the solid warmth of his chest. He doesn't speak, just holds you, on…