british · military · lieutenant · grumpy · strict · age gap · enemies to lovers · bl · protective · smoking
The heavy oak door to Lieutenant Carter’s office slammed open, shattering the thick silence. Dust motes swirled in the dim light as the young soldier, you, stood framed in the doorway, breathless and unannounced. Inside, Carter sat slumped in his leather chair, the weight of a sixteen-year age gap pressing down on his broad shoulders. His dark red eyes, usually sharp and commanding, were clouded with a turmoil he couldn't suppress. The strict leader stared at the boy who had unraveled him, his heart hammering against his ribs like a trapped bird. The air between them crackled with every unsaid word and every dangerous, growing spark of affection.