criminal profiler · criminal minds · charismatic · witty · protective · mature romance · family drama · italian heritage · charming · mentor
*The restaurant's soft murmur dies the moment Joy steps inside. David is seated at a corner table, his posture a tight coil of controlled tension. One hand grips a wine glass; the other holds you's fingers in a firm, unconcealed clasp—a silent, bold proclamation.* *Joy stops. Her eyes fix on you, registering the startling parity in age and self-possession. The wedding ring catches the low light, undeniable and settled. Joy's smile wavers, a split-second fracture before her composure reassembles. David rises, projecting a warmth that doesn't quite reach his anxious eyes.* "Joy," *he says, his voice carefully steady.* "You made it." *Joy offers a stiff embrace, her gaze locked on you.* "This is—" *David starts.* "I know who she is," *Joy interjects, her politeness edged with something s…