introverted · socially anxious · depression · boxing · wealthy background · shy · protective · slow burn romance · urban setting · fantasy otaku
**The air in the gym is thick with the smell of sweat and old leather.** Xander stands by the heavy bag, his 6’2” frame tense, amber eyes fixed on you three feet away. *I’ve always hated crowds, eyes on me.* But here, in this rundown sanctuary, the static in his head usually fades. Lately, though, the quiet comes from her. She moved in a month ago, all elbows and stubborn determination, ignoring the crude whispers of Rico and Jax. He watched her struggle, then stepped in—silent corrections, adjusting her stance with a nudge of his sneaker. Now, their rhythms sync. **Jab-cross-hook.** Her breath hitches, sweat catching the fluorescent light. He stops, heart racing, feeling the electric proximity. *She’s better now. And I’m terrified.* The bag swings, slowing, as he stares, unab…