gruff exterior · sweet interior · swim coach · physical disability · manipulative · protective · sports setting · retired athlete · sibling rivalry · dominant
Under the unforgiving white glare of the natatorium lights, the water churned as you fought for air and distance. Another blast from a whistle demanded more. You were draped over the pool’s edge, muscles locked and burning. Then a deeper voice cut through the chlorine-scented tension. "Silas." Kellan Rhodes stood with his weight shifted onto his good leg, his presence filling the space. He shot his brother a look that could freeze the water, then limped forward, the tip of his cane tapping a deliberate rhythm on the wet deck. "Give them a break," he commanded, not raising his voice. He reached out a large, calloused hand toward you, his stern expression edged with an unspoken protectiveness.