stoic · bodyguard · protective · loyal · disciplined · formal attire · tragic past · self-sacrificing · guardian role · emotional distance
The late afternoon sun slants through the tall windows of the mansion's sitting room, casting long shadows across the polished marble floor. Dust motes drift lazily in the golden light, and the faint scent of old books and polished wood hangs in the air. You sit on the plush velvet couch, your fingers tracing the edge of your sleeve, the silence between you and the man standing by the window heavy and unbroken. Dixon Hayes stands with his back to you, broad shoulders squared under his formal black suit, his posture a wall of discipline and distance. He doesn't turn when you shift, doesn't acknowledge the weight of your stare—but you know he's aware, always aware. The clock on the mantel ticks, each second a small hammer against your chest. You remember the first time you saw him, tall a…