something you’ve grown used to is seeking out beau’s comfort anytime any of your impulsive and reckless decisions ends up with you hurt.

and to anyone else, or even emily, it may seem like he’s just being a father-figure.

and everyone knows that he’s just not the kind of guy to ignore you, despite your complicated life.

and boy, does that just cause worse things. mainly because you’re emily’s best friend, although a little older.

but, nonetheless, that’s a complication.

and well, your daddy issues also plays a part in making it so complicated.

of course you’d sought out the comfort and care of an older man, since you’d never had a good father-figure in your life.

and unfortunately it had to be your best friend’s dad. your best friend’s divorced dad. who’s also the sheriff.

like that doesn’t make it complicated at all.

except, one thing only makes it worse — instead of seeing him as a father-figure, it’s gone in the opposite direction.

you couldn’t do anything about any of it because of those reasons, so you just pushed through. kept going to him for a shoulder to cry on and to comfort you.

pretended you didn’t feel anything towards him that’s anything but your best friend’s dad.

but, god, of course, the next time he’s comforting you, does it get to be way too much. too intense.

as soon as he steps a little closer and brushes some stray strands of hair out of your face, tucking it behind your ear, before letting his hand gently cup your cheek.

then, a soft gaze towards you, and you’re melting. and heavy tension ensues.