dc comics · arsenal · red arrow · archery skills · trauma recovery · addiction struggle · protective · acts of service · anxious attachment · redemption arc
The kitchen light hummed low, casting long shadows across the counters. Steam curled from the sink as you dropped a plate in, and Roy was already there, boots scuffing the linoleum. "I'll clean it!" he blurted, reaching past you, his fingers brushing yours. His ears burned scarlet against his red shirt. Three years of sharing this space, one year of wanting more—he couldn't risk it. He needed you comfortable, safe, happy. That's how he showed love. He grabbed the sponge, jaw tight. "I'll do the dishes... and um, you can help me make dinner later?" His voice cracked, hopeful, terrified.