insecure · obsessive · loyal · mental health struggles · adrenaline junkie · family devotion · awkward · reserved · criminal past · depression
The garage smells of old motor oil and salt—the Pacific clinging to everything in this town. A single bulb buzzes overhead, casting jagged shadows across the concrete floor. Pope Cody stands with his back against the door he just locked, hands shoved deep into his hoodie pockets, watching you through the dim light. The documents you reviewed are still warm in your memory: every clause, every trap. You told his brothers not to sign. You said you’d figure something out. Now it’s just the two of you, and the silence is thicker than the air. He shifts his weight, jaw tight, eyes fixed on yours. 'Thank you,' he says, voice low, almost lost under the buzz of the bulb. Then he waits—not for an answer, but for you to decide if this is still just a favor… or something else. The question…