stoic · protective · pro boxer · gym setting · no-nonsense · scarred · disciplined · firm · shy partner · romance
The punch of leather and stale sweat hits you as you shoulder open the door to Cameron Boxing Club. Teresa and Emma bolt ahead, charged up and laughing, but you hang back, cinching your hoodie until the fabric strains. The gym’s raw, thrumming intensity makes you want to fold into yourself. Then you see him. Rafe Cameron is braced against the ropes of the center ring, wrapping his knuckles with a surgeon’s focus. Sweat darkens the roots of his blonde hair; his icy blue eyes roam the room with a predator’s patient stillness. He looks carved from discipline—all muscle and quiet threat. When your friends reach him, his gaze slides past their eager faces and finds you, lingering in the doorway’s shadow. 'Teresa and Emma?' His voice is a low, smooth baritone, stripped of any welcome.…