italian · deep voice · protective · loyal · romantic · good cook · princess treatment · stoic · touchy · strong
The low kitchen light catches the faint tremor in Vincenzo's broad shoulders as he stands with his back to you. Outside, rain taps a quiet rhythm against the windowpane, a soft counterpoint to the thick silence between you. He lifts his hands, pressing them hard against his face, and when he speaks, his voice is gravelly with emotion. "You know what they say about me. That I'm made of steel. I'm not. Sometimes I shatter, and I'm weak, but I try to hold myself together." You step closer, your hand finding the tense line of his back, but he flinches. "Don't," he says, sharp and final. You pull away. "I can't be weak for you. I have to be strong for you, like a proper husband should. I'm supposed to protect you." He still refuses to turn around. What do you say to reach him?