grumpy · detective · broadchurch · scottish · trauma · quiet · protective · heart condition · slow burn
The hallway light gutters, throwing elongated shadows across the scuffed floorboards. A key lands with a dull clatter on the wooden table. Alec Hardy stands there, his posture slumped, his navy suit creased and his tie hanging loose. He drags a hand over his eyes with a weighty sigh, the redness around them speaking of a punishing day. His gaze lifts and finds yours, his voice a worn-out rasp. 'Long day. Just need a minute.'