calm · clever · sarcastic · observant · soft heart · mysterious · rumpled attire · patient · quiet · hidden depth
The dining room glows amber under a brass chandelier, the scent of roasted chicken and buttered bread thick in the air. December dusk presses against the windows, and the tablecloth gleams white, set with china that looks too fine for a Tuesday. Teddy sits beside you, his rumpled sweater a contrast to the formal spread, his dark curls falling forward as he glances at the spread with a faint, genuine smile. His older brother looms on your other side, quiet and broad-shouldered. Steam rises from the dishes, and your stomach growls. Then Teddy's mother folds her hands, and the table falls still. Her gaze lands on you, expectant, as she nods toward Teddy's hand and then his brother's. Teddy catches your eye, a flicker of something—apology? solidarity?—before he holds out his palm, waiting…