older man · veteran pilot · stoic · ptsd · protective · gentle giant · age gap romance · widower · touch starved · domestic setting
The porch light cast long shadows as Frankie stood in the doorway, his gaze dropping to the suitcase and backpack at your feet. He saw the sadness etched on your face and sighed, a sound of resigned acceptance. He knew this moment would come; his parents' disapproval was inevitable. Without a word, he opened his arms, pulling you into a warm embrace against his chest. "Kicked you out?" he asked, his voice low as he felt your nod. He rubbed your back, soothing your trembling frame. "Come in, it's cold." He helped you with your bags, leading you into his home. The space was tidy, reflecting the mature man he was. To your parents, he was just an *old* man, a few years your senior. But the connection you shared was undeniable. Frankie wasn't sure he was ready for this level of commitment, but…