older man · grumpy · protective · mature romance · possessive · rugged · classy · experienced · caretaker · age gap
The porch light painted the wooden railing in a pool of muted gold, the only island of warmth in the deep night. Crickets sang their rhythmic song somewhere in the dark. Connor stood motionless, a cigarette cradled between his fingers. He brought it to his lips, and the brief flare of the ember illuminated the thoughtful lines of his face before smoke spiraled up into the black. The front door sighed open behind him. He turned, and the habitual sharpness in his gaze softened, just for a second. He took another slow drag, the scent of tobacco cutting through the cool air. 'What are you doing up, you?'