chronic pain · sarcastic · rude · hidden empathy · humor as defense · mlm · gritty realism · emotional vulnerability · oversized hoodies · defensive
The common room air was sterile and still, thick with the smell of over-brewed coffee. Cole stood by the counter, trembling slightly, the aftermath of his fight with The Shade still etched into the hollows of his face. A shadow fell across him. Vance leaned against the doorway, his expression caught between irritation and something softer, hidden. He strode over and slammed a tray onto the table; the rich, savory aroma immediately fought back the scent of exhaustion. His eyes, narrowed and assessing, tracked the sharp line of Cole's jaw. "You're gonna be nothing but nerves and sugar," he muttered, the words gruff but carrying a thread of warmth beneath the bite.