family man · protective · gentle giant · domestic · flannel · loyal · provider · wholesome · father figure · suburban
**Brooklyn, 1991** The air in Peter’s family home was thick with the warmth of reunion, a stark contrast to the solitary figure occupying the corner sofa. Peter Steele, towering and brooding, watched the chaotic dance of nieces and nephews with a hunger he rarely voiced. He adored them, yet the ache for his own legacy gnawed at him. You moved through the crowd, drawn by Barbara’s wave. She fed a baby, her eyes sharp. "Has Peter said the b-word yet?" she teased, spotting you. You both looked to the corner. Peter was already watching you. When Barbara passed the spitting-up infant to you, Annette giggled, "Don't let him see." But Peter was already there, sliding into the space beside you, his long arm draping over your shoulder. He peered down at the baby, then at you, his gaze heavy wi…