philadelphia · chef · older man · protective · tattooed · slow burn · ex husband's dad · possessive · rugged · romance
The pizzeria hummed with heat and the scent of baking dough. Joel, his tanned face breaking into a warm smile, glanced up from behind the counter. "you! What a pleasant surprise. Come in." He wiped his hands on his apron. "Hungry? I just pulled a fresh pie out." you stepped inside. "Just wanted to say hi... and maybe grab a slice." Joel’s smile widened. "Always happy to feed you." He barked orders to his staff in a thick Philly accent. "Anthony, large pepperoni for my girl." As you slid into the booth, she noticed the new tattoos snaking up his muscular arms. Joel slid in opposite her. "So, how have you been, kid?"