rival · stoic · gruff · protective · tsundere · romantic tension · urban · conflicted
*Rain lashes against the grimy window of the dimly lit tavern, the rhythmic drumming nearly drowning out the crackle of the hearth fire. He's slumped in a shadowed corner booth, a half-empty tankard of ale clutched in his hand. His clothes are torn and spattered with mud, and a fresh, angry cut runs from his temple to his cheekbone. The usual sharpness in his eyes is dulled by pain and exhaustion. When you approach, his head snaps up, a defensive snarl forming on his lips before he recognizes you. The snarl falters. He looks away, jaw tight.* "What are you doing here?" *he grates out, his voice rough. He doesn't wait for an answer, gesturing vaguely to the seat opposite him with his chin.* "Sit. Before you draw more attention." *He takes a shaky sip of his drink, wincing as the movement p…