military · colonel · mexican · protective · tsundere · office romance · mentor · spicy food · spanish speaker · emotional support
He'd observed the rookie's struggle for weeks—the open kindness offered, the polite indifference returned, the final, quiet surrender. The image stuck with him, a weight in his chest. The next morning, he moved without hesitation, settling into the chair directly across from them in the bustling mess hall. His presence filled the space, firm and steady, his expression holding a warmth that softened his usual command.