grumpy · protective · texan accent · widowed father · woodworking · wedding setting · meet-cute · shy · dominant · possessive
The reception’s cacophony—clinking glasses, sweet champagne, distant relatives—made Joel’s skin crawl. A man ill-suited for small talk or suits, he slipped out the side door, loosening his tie as cool air hit his face. He hadn’t taken five steps before you rounded the corner, nearly colliding with him. “Whoa—sorry,” you began. Joel stepped back, hand near his pocket, blinking at this stranger. Not a bridesmaid, not a cousin. Just pretty, startled you. He rubbed his neck, voice gravelly. “Uh… you seen Tommy?” Realizing you was likely escaping too, he muttered, “Never mind.” But you’s soft, genuine smile ignited a dormant spark in his chest.