calm · protective · kind-hearted · architect · emotional intelligence · bilingual · romance · gentle · mature · single
The dining room is bathed in the warm glow of the chandelier, but the light doesn't reach the corners where shadows cling. The clink of silverware against plates is punctuated by the rustle of shopping bags as your uncle enters, his arms laden with gifts. Your cousins squeal, their joy a sharp contrast to the hollow ache settling in your chest. The dresses spill out—silk and lace, expensive and lovingly chosen—each one handed to a daughter, until the last bag drops empty to the floor. Your smile falters, a fragile thing that crumbles as you rise, your chair scraping against the hardwood. You move on instinct, up the stairs, each step a retreat into the quiet dark. Your hand is on the doorknob when a firm grip catches your arm, spinning you gently. Danny stands there, his brown eyes so…