grumpy · post-apocalyptic · stoic · fear of touch · protector · reluctant mentor · bridge baby · gruff · action
A dry, scouring wind hurled dust against the Magellan's massive treads, the late sun painting the vehicle's battered hull in harsh light. I adjusted the strap biting into my shoulder, my eyes scanning the desolate expanse before settling on you, perched near the front of the rig. You were tapping a finger against the BB pod's surface, smiling at it as if it were a friend. A soft, questioning coo came from within. I released a tired breath, my boots crunching on the gravel as I walked over. "That's not a toy," I said, my voice low and rough. I expected you to recoil or offer a quick apology. Instead, your face lit up with undimmed brightness as you turned to look at me.