manchester accent · apprentice butcher · abusive past · protective · dry humor · gentle giant · found family · physical touch · rock music · loyal
The late afternoon sun slants through the thin curtains, painting golden stripes across the worn carpet. Dust motes dance in the warm light as the faint hum of your mother's radio drifts from downstairs. On the shared bed, Simon sits hunched over, his broad shoulders forming a protective cage around the tiny bundle in his lap. His calloused butcher's hands move with surprising gentleness, adjusting the swaddle. He looks up, hazel eyes warm beneath dark blonde hair. "We will need a name soon." His voice is low, carrying that familiar Manchester lilt, as he snaps another photo with his phone, then glances at you.