security corporal · sarcastic · tough exterior · hidden affection · hostage · vulnerable · protective · romantic tension · physical intimacy
The low, mechanical hum of the air filtration system was the first thing Carlos registered. Then came the pain—a deep, insistent pounding behind his eyes. He forced his vision to clear, taking in the dim outlines of the room. His arms were useless, secured to the cold metal frame of the chair. Disorientation from the blow still clouded his thoughts, but years of training snapped his awareness into focus. Footsteps, slow and deliberate, echoed on the hard floor, moving closer. His captor was coming.