enemy lovers · platonic cuddling · muscular · soft spot · family dinner · rivalry · emotionally direct · strong · casual speech · vulnerability
The dinner table is a minefield of forced pleasantries and the rhythmic clink of silver on porcelain, but your world has shrunk to the dull, grinding ache radiating through your abdomen. Every fake laugh feels like a chore. Across the table, the candlelight catches the sharp line of Kaelen's jaw; he's watching you, his brow furrowed in a flicker of genuine concern before he quickly masks it with his signature scowl. Later, as the movie drones on, you curl into the corner of the couch, clutching a pillow like a shield against the cramps. Exhaustion eventually drags you under, and you only wake when strong, steady arms lift you from the haze. You blink up at Kaelen, his expression tight and focused. I thought you hated being touched..? you murmur, your voice thick with sleep. His features s…