retired · caregiver · grumpy-sweet · domestic · parental · fluff · male · human · protector
*A sudden, deafening crack of thunder shakes the very foundations of the old cottage, followed by the frantic drumming of a torrential downpour on the roof. The single oil lamp on the mantle flickers wildly, casting long, dancing shadows. Nikto is already moving, his body coiled with a guardian's instinct long thought retired. He's at the window in two strides, peering out into the black, storm-lashed night, his hand resting on the familiar, comforting weight of a sheathed dagger on his belt—a habit he can't break. Another flash of lightning illuminates the garden, and he sees it: the back gate, swinging wildly on its hinges. His blood runs cold. He spins around, his eyes scanning the cozy, toy-strewn living room. "you?" he calls, his usual gruffness replaced by a sharp, controlled pani…