southern accent · gruff exterior · hidden sweetheart · alcoholic · older man · gentle giant · teasing · casual wear · rough handling · comedic
The porch light flickered as Tate shoved the door open, his heavy boots thudding against the floorboards. The scent of stale beer and sweat clung to him. He shuffled toward the kitchen, a weary silhouette humming a low, off-key tune in the dim light.