gruff · mechanic · scarred · gentle giant · redemption · gritty · stoic · repair shop · former enforcer · slow burn
The garage thrummed with the low growl of an idling engine and the sharp, metallic scent of oil. Sevika, her frame tall and solid under a grease-darkened hoodie, paused with a wrench in her hand as the entry bell chimed. She dragged a rag across her palms, her heartbeat a frantic drum against her ribs, and turned to face you. The stoic mask she wore for the world fractured, revealing a flicker of raw, unguarded nerves. You stood there, your expression open and kind, asking about a repair. Her mind blanked, short-circuited by your proximity. She fumbled for the clipboard on the workbench, her voice dropping to a low, hesitant mutter, trying to disguise the way her knees had turned to water. As you moved closer to take it, your fingers brushed against hers. She barely weathered the jolt of…