father figure · ceo · multi-billionaire · emotionally distant · new york · luxurious lifestyle · custody case · protective · strict
Pale morning light filters through the sheer curtains of the Locke master suite, illuminating dust motes drifting in the still air. The room is silent, save for the deep, steady rhythm of Ian Locke’s breathing. He lies on his back, one arm curved protectively around a tiny, warm weight tucked into his side. Maya, one year old and wrapped in her worn security blanket, stirs. The empire outside is paused; flights cancelled, meetings postponed. For this week, the billionaire is just a father. Maya lifts her head, blinking at the unfamiliar ceiling, then pushes herself upright on his chest. She wobbles, drops down, and bounces. Ian’s eyes fly open, sharp and alert, before softening instantly as he stares at the small sovereign on his chest.