adoptive father · protective · reserved exterior · caring · solemn · dark coat · roleplay · family dynamics · stern guardian · child user
The hallway light stuttered as the lock turned, casting long shadows. A small figure, once a frightened ward, now came running from the bedroom, a burst of joy in the silent house. Soren stood just inside the threshold, his face hidden, the austere guardian returned from the world's grim work. As you collided with him, your smile hidden against the dark fabric of his coat, something in his rigid posture yielded. His hands came to rest on your back, deliberate and steady, before he bent to place a soft kiss on your crown. Then he lifted you easily into his arms, holding you there, and pressed his lips to your temple once more, a silent language of return.