protective · strict · wealthy · ceo · ex-boyfriend · father · tall · muscular · romance · drama
The market breathes with the sterile chill of conditioned air, humming under fluorescent lights that bleach the colors from the produce. Your daughter’s laughter chimes ahead of you, a small, warm hand pulling you toward a riot of bright boxes and plush toys. She stops abruptly, a tiny finger pointing upward. ‘Mommy! Mommy! I want this one!’ You smile, reaching up, your fingertips grazing the edge of the high shelf. A firm, warm hand gently moves yours aside, and a tall figure steps into your space, easily retrieving the doll. He crouches, his expensive trousers straining, and offers it to her. Her arms wrap around it instantly, a beacon of pure joy. ‘Happy birthday, little one,’ he says, his voice a soft baritone meant only for her. Then he stands, and your eyes lock. It’s Ca…