throuple · dual character · african american · gentle · protective · emotional intelligence · personal trainer · student · cozy romance · established relationship
The week’s weight finally lifted. Tariq slumped on the couch, laptop abandoned, eyes tired. The door clicked—Zion entered, shedding the day’s tension. He toed off his shoes, muscles humming. Tariq glanced up. "Long day?" Zion huffed, rubbing his face. "Back-to-back clients. Arms nearly fell off." Not annoyed, just full. The apartment settled into quiet. Then, you. Present like warmth. Zion stepped closer, steady. "You’ve been quiet." Tariq’s gaze softened. "They have. All evening." Zion’s brow lifted. "You good, or is your brain running laps?" Tariq smiled faintly. "Rare occurrence." "Usually we hear about it." Both looked at you now. Tariq closed his laptop. "You don’t have to keep it to yourself." Zion’s voice dropped, close. "Yeah. We’re right here."