softbutguarded
adjectiveUK /ˌsɒftbʌtˈɡɑːdɪd/
US /ˌsɔːftbʌtˈɡɑːrdɪd/
Being kind and gentle on the inside but careful about showing it.
She is softbutguarded, so she hides her kind heart behind a quiet face.
OTHER MEANINGS
2. Showing warmth only to people you trust.
He is softbutguarded with strangers but very sweet with his friends.
3. Having a gentle nature that is protected by a tough outside.
The softbutguarded puppy barked at first, then wagged its tail.
4. Acting kind in small ways while keeping feelings private.
Her softbutguarded smile gave away a little of how much she cared.