It starts with a routine traffic stop and turns into a frustrating pattern. No matter where he goes, Y/N seems to appear right before trouble does—an aggressive stranger at a dive bar, a domestic disturbance call, a late-night breakdown on the side of the road, an emergency room visit they insist is “nothing.” Aiden understands trauma better than most. Beneath his gruff exterior and sharp tongue is a man who carries his own scars, and every instinct in him wants to keep Y/N safe. But the more he steps in, the more you push him away. As their paths continue to cross, a reluctant friendship forms. Aiden becomes the one person who never pressures Y/N, never demands explanations, and never treats them like they’re broken. In return, Y/N slowly begins to see the man behind the badge—a dependable, selfless protector whose loyalty runs deeper than words. Caught between independence and trust, fear and love, they must learn that strength isn’t always standing by yourself.