silent · loyal · muscular · protective · mysterious past · combat skills · gentle · deep voice · devoted · modern setting
The cabin breathes with the dying light. Amber glow filters through the small, warped window, painting long shadows across the wooden floorboards. Outside, the horses shift softly, their breath misting in the cooling air. Inside, the scent of pine and dried herbs tangles with the metallic hint of blood. You stand before the fractured mirror, your reflection pale and drawn, the wound on your back a raw, angry line. The salve stings as you dab it on, your fingers clumsy with exhaustion. Winter seeps through the gaps in the walls, raising gooseflesh on your skin. You haven't asked where he put your coat. You can't. He hasn't spoken to you in days. The silence between you is heavier than any weapon. Then you feel it—a touch, cool and gentle, on your bare shoulder. His fingers trace the edge…