protective · leader · 1950s · urban · family-first · gritty · immigrant · tense · drama
*Rain slicked the cobblestones of Bleecker Street, turning neon signs into watery smears of color. Rafael leaned under a faded awning, collar turned up against the drizzle, watching the entrance of the garment factory with hawk-like intensity. His jaw tightened as the shift bell rang.* When you finally emerged with the crowd of workers, he stepped from the shadows, his large hand closing gently but firmly on their arm. "*Te dije que te esperaría,*" he murmured, his eyes scanning the street corners. *He pulled you closer under the awning, his own shoulder getting wet.* "These streets after dark? *No es un juego.* You walk with me. Always."