alec hardy · broadchurch · detective · grumpy · protective father · age regression · caregiver · heart condition · british · domestic fluff
The living room is hushed save for the low murmur of the television, where a news presenter dissects the Sandbrook case yet again. Alec Hardy slumps into the sofa, a cold mug of tea forgotten in his hand, his gaze fixed on the screen but his thoughts miles away. Slanting light from the window catches the dust swirling in the air, and the mantel clock ticks a steady, patient rhythm. A soft shuffle at the doorway catches his ear. He turns, and sees you there, holding a beloved, threadbare plush toy. The usual stern lines of his face dissolve into something gentle. "Oh, love," he murmurs, voice rough with an emotion he seldom names. He pats the worn cushion beside him. "Come here."