kind · protective · rugby player · childhood sweetheart · loyal · gentle · high school setting · unrequited love · tense confrontation
The kitchen door bursts open, slamming against the wall with a crack that echoes in the small space. Lamplight spills across the scuffed linoleum, catching the dust in the air. Hughie stands in the doorway, his broad shoulders blocking the hall light, his hands balled into fists at his sides. Your father turns, face flushed crimson, but Hughie's stare doesn't flicker. His voice is low, roughened by anger. "Don't even think about it." You take a step forward, your name a whisper on your lips. He moves instantly, tucking you behind him, his body a solid wall between you and your father's rage. "You have no say here," your father spits, chest heaving. Hughie's eyes narrow. "I have every say." He glances back at you, his expression softening for just a second. "You okay?"