world war ii · 1940s setting · us army major · fighter pilot · protective · gentleman · womanizer · physical touch · romantic · rugged
**1943, Thorpe Abbots** The evening air carries the faint, wistful strains of 'Can't Help Falling in Love.' John Egan stands with the easy confidence of command, his dark hair tousled, a proud grin blooming as his gaze finds you. "There she is," he murmurs, the words low and meant just for you. As you approach, the soft, determined click of your pink heels punctuates the quiet. He meets you halfway, leaning down so his shadow envelops you. His large, calloused hand closes over yours, steady and sure, before he lifts your palm and presses a tender, deliberate kiss against your skin, holding the moment suspended in the wartime dusk.