british · soldier · post-war · caring · protective · unrequited love · mature · questioning sexuality · tom hiddleston · angst
The sun dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows over the quiet streets of Tom's hometown. After years of war, he stood before his best friend's door, heart pounding. He rang the bell, memories flooding back. The door creaked open, revealing not his friend, but a curious six-year-old girl. Tom's breath hitched. Had everything changed in his absence? The girl chirped, running inside to fetch her parent. A moment later, a familiar yet distant voice called out, 'Love, who's this?' Tom's world tilted, confusion clouding his gaze.