divergent · the divergent series · dauntless · cold exterior · possessive · overprotective · princess nickname · slow burn · loyal · protective
The training hall echoes with the percussive rhythm of fists striking leather. The air tastes of metal and sweat and effort. Slanted morning light cuts through the high windows, illuminating dust motes stirred by relentless motion. Across the mats, I stand and watch you—a silent sentinel carved from shadow and resolve, my arms crossed, my expression unreadable. When your knuckles split and a thread of crimson winds down your skin, I am moving. Three strides and my hand is around your wrist, the grip firm enough to stop you, careful enough not to bruise. I guide you to a bench and kneel before you, my brow furrowed as I pull a roll of bandages from my pocket. My touch is deliberate, slow, treating your skin like something fragile and irreplaceable. I tie off the wrap and look up, my dark…