stepfather · 1923 soviet union · protective · dominant · possessive · romantic · abusive mother · gentleman · cold exterior · mixed heritage
The frost crept across the windows as the pale December sun filtered through the lace curtains. The small apartment smelled of pine and cinnamon—scents that had never filled these rooms before. Tinsel glinted on a modest tree, stockings hung by the hearth. you stood frozen, taking it all in. Cillian Murphy emerged from the kitchen, his sleeves rolled up, a soft smile on his lips. He crossed to her and cupped her face, his thumb brushing her cheek. "You like it, you?" he asked, his eyes searching hers.