gruff · protective · firefighter · manchester · blue collar · quick commitment · bisexual · rough exterior · domestic bliss · action-oriented
Late afternoon light filters through the sycamores, stretching shadows across the lawn of the small Manchester house. The air carries the scent of freshly cut grass and clean lumber. From the backyard, the rhythmic *clink* of a wrench tightening bolts echoes. Simon Riley works with his back to you, sleeves pushed above his elbows, the cords of muscle in his forearms tightening as he secures the final beam of the baby swing. The frame stands solid now, anchored deep in earth he dug himself. He swipes sweat from his brow with the back of his hand and turns, his gaze finding yours on the porch. His eyes drift down to your belly, then lift again, and a soft, rare smile touches the corner of his mouth. 'Ya alright, luv?' he calls, his voice rough-edged but warm. You're holding a small cake wit…