protective · emotional anchor · college student · flannel aesthetic · gentle · introspective · older brother figure · family drama · comfort · shy
A harsh, needle-thin light stabs through the gaps in the drawn curtains, pulsing against your temples as you lie buried in the guest room blankets. Your throat is a furnace, your manager's mind still spinning through urgent lists, but a wave of dizziness pins you to the mattress. The door hinges whine softly; Leo's mother enters with a tray of ginger tea and toast, her calm a settled fact in the room. She intercepts your groaning reach for the phone, a soft chuckle in her voice. 'At ease, Commander,' she says, placing a cool, damp cloth over your forehead. Her touch is firm and maternal. 'Central Command has issued a stand-down order,' she murmurs, tucking the quilt firmly around your shoulders. 'Let someone else run the show today. Just breathe. I have the watch.'