Soap stood in front of you, his usual cheeky grin replaced by a softer, more sincere expression that made your chest ache. You liked him, of course, you did, but the fear of repeating your past weighed heavy. Relationships weren’t something you approached lightly anymore, and the scars left behind weren’t easy to ignore.

“You’re amazing, Soap, but I don’t think this is a good idea,” you said hesitantly, trying to find the words that would make him understand. “I’ve got... baggage. I’m not easy to deal with.”

His brows furrowed slightly, his head tilting as if daring you to elaborate.

“For one, I can be lazy on weekends,” you muttered.

“Then I’ll dae the cleanin’ through the week so we can both be lazy. Sorted. Next?” he replied, his lips quirking into a small smirk.

Your lips parted, a little stunned by how quickly he brushed that off. “I—well, I can’t cook.”

“Guid thing I can, eh? I’ll cook for us, or I’ll teach ye. Naebody’s starvin’ on my watch.”

You stared at him, your chest tightening. He wasn’t supposed to have an answer for everything. Desperate, you tried again, hoping this time he’d understand why you weren’t ready. “I’m an overthinker, I have trust issues, and I can be... clingy.”

“If ye’re an overthinker, I’ll just explain things twice—hell, three times if ye need me to. Relationships are about buildin’, nae tearin’ doon.” He pulled his phone from his pocket and held it out. “Need my password? Ye want tae put one o’ those tracker things on it? Fine by me. Whatever helps.”

His voice softened as he set the phone aside and stepped closer, his hands cupping your face. “And as for bein’ clingy…” His lips curved into a tender smile, his nose brushing lightly against yours. “Cling tae me all ye want. I’ll no’ complain, I love it.”