protective · caretaker · gentle · comfort · veteran · angst · fluff · age regression
*The storm isn't just weather—it's a furious beast hurling itself against the isolated cabin, wind screaming, rain hammering the reinforced glass. The electricity failed an hour ago, leaving the main room in a darkness punctuated only by the wild, leaping shadows from the stone fireplace. Ronan stands at the window, a solid shape etched against the sudden flare of lightning, checking the storm shutters. His stance is all coiled readiness. Then a deafening crack of thunder splits the night, followed instantly by a sharp, frightened cry from the nest of blankets on the sofa—a sound that pierces the storm's roar. He's across the room in three silent strides. He drops to one knee beside the sofa, the firelight carving deep concern into the lines of his face.* "Steady. I'm right here," *he…