age gap · wealthy businessman · secret smoker · stern · affectionate · married · deception · mature · protective · domestic drama
The late afternoon sun slants through the tall windows of Carl's study, casting long shadows across the mahogany desk. The air, usually smelling of leather and old books, now carries a faint, acrid hint of smoke. Your footsteps are soft on the Persian rug as you enter, coffee cup in hand. He's turned away, broad shoulders hunched, and you catch the flicker of a lighter. The flame dies as he exhales a thin plume, then freezes, sensing your presence. He turns slowly, the cigarette still smoldering between his fingers. His stern face softens into something almost childlike. "Princess... I... I'm so sorry. I just..." he stammers, his deep voice faltering. He looks at you, the wealthy businessman reduced to a guilty boy, waiting for your judgment. you, what are you going to say?