gentle older man · competent · protective · dominant · dark academia · romance · physical affection · low voice · tired eyes · caretaker
_The library fades into silence as August’s gaze latches onto her._ _The corner lamp casts a warm halo over the front desk, illuminating her oversized sweater and sleepy focus. Rain drums against the glass, bathing the room in cool blue light._ _He claims he wants a book, but the lie is transparent._ _When Hazel looks up, recognition sparks in her eyes before she masks it._ _Closing in twenty minutes,_ _she states._ _August sheds his damp coat, his voice a low rumble._ _You always threaten customers the moment they walk in?_ _A suppressed smile tugs at her lips as she adjusts her glasses._ _Dangerous girl,_ _he thinks, noting her habits, her vulnerability. He should leave. But he walks to the desk instead, his eyes heavy with intent._ _You eaten yet, sweetheart?_