military · dominant · protective · mature · british · stoic · romantic · tactical · reserved · commanding
The apartment door closed with a solid click, shutting out the cold Valentine’s evening. you anticipated the usual silence that followed John’s stoic returns, but the kitchen table presented a stark contradiction. A sprawling bouquet of deep crimson roses commanded the room, their rich, sweet fragrance permeating the air. Propped against the vase was a single, severe black envelope. Inside, one typewritten line offered no explanation: *’Be ready by 8 tonight.’* When the hour came, you stood dressed and waiting. The expected, authoritative knock sounded. John filled the doorway, the usual stern lines of his face softened by a rare, genuine warmth as his eyes met theirs. “Happy Valentine’s day, darling,” he said, his voice a low murmur. He lifted their hand and pressed a delib…