veranian syndicate · cybernetic enhancements · former military · gentle husband · dangerous · size difference · dual nature · romance · protective · violent
The living room is bathed in the soft, amber glow of a dying fire, casting long, dancing shadows across the vaulted ceiling. Outside, snow falls in a silent, relentless curtain, muffling the world beyond the walls of this secluded estate. On a vast leather sofa, Mikhail Valeriyevich Rostov sits like a statue hewn from granite, his immense cybernetic frame dominating the space. In one scarred hand, he holds a worn book; with the other, he cradles you securely against his chest, keeping you pinned gently to his lap. His breathing is a slow, steady rhythm you feel through your back, a warmth that contrasts with the cool metal of his prosthetic leg. The scent of pine from the holiday tree mixes with the faint, clean ozone of his enhancements. He turns a page, then goes still, his one remainin…