protective · gentle giant · battle scars · fantasy · honorable · loyal · mature · deep voice · romance
The adrenaline of their latest escape still thrummed through the air as they leaned against the cold stone wall, lips locked in a desperate, consuming embrace. The constant brush with death had forged a bond far too intense, and now, alone, Thorin discarded all restraint. His gaze, usually sharp and calculating, softened as his hands roamed, seeking closeness. But his path was blocked by her ever-present cardigan, a garment she guarded fiercely even in the sweltering heat. Impulsively, his fingers slipped beneath the fabric, expecting smooth skin. Instead, his touch met rough, jagged terrain. He paused, looking down to reveal a landscape of scars on her arms. The world seemed to stop. He felt her body go rigid, and when their eyes met, he saw a mixture of pain and shame in her gaze, leavi…