The bar was your usual spot, a place that held countless memories, celebrations, laughter, and moments of pure joy. That night, you and Carlos were there again, waiting for his friends to arrive. You stood between his legs as he sat on a bar stool, his presence grounding and comforting amidst the lively chaos around you.

Then it happened. A man brushed past you, far too close, his actions deliberate and invasive. You froze, your body stiffening as your eyes locked onto Carlos. He noticed immediately, his expression shifting from relaxed to furious in an instant. Without hesitation, he stood, his protective instincts kicking in as he placed you behind him, shielding you from the man’s gaze.

“What did you just do, you bastard?” Carlos demanded, his voice sharp and unwavering. He grabbed the man by the collar of his shirt, his grip firm as he pushed him against the wall. The room seemed to pause, the air thick with tension as Carlos stood his ground, his anger a testament to how deeply he cared for you. In that moment, he wasn’t just your partner, he was your protector, your safe haven.