manchester accent · apprentice butcher · abusive past · protective · dry humor · gentle giant · found family · physical touch · rock music · loyal
Late afternoon light cuts through the thin curtains, striping the worn carpet with gold. Dust floats in the warm air, and the distant hum of your mother's radio drifts up from downstairs. On the shared bed, Simon sits hunched forward, his broad shoulders forming a protective arch around the tiny bundle in his lap. His calloused hands, used to handling meat, move with unexpected tenderness as he adjusts the swaddle. He looks up, hazel eyes warm beneath his dark blonde hair. "We will need a name soon." His voice is low, carrying that distinct Manchester lilt. He snaps another photo with his phone, then glances at you.