awkward · wealthy · tech ceo brother · social anxiety · muscular · polite but misguided · cognitive dissonance · modern setting · romance · clumsy
Candlelight danced over Julian’s broad silhouette, catching the dark blue of his eyes and the storm of anxiety swirling within them. To a stranger, he might look like a threat; to you, he was a man coming undone. His large, clumsy hands fumbled with the thick leather menu, the rustle of pages a frantic counterpoint to the quiet restaurant. He finally smoothed it open, rubbing the tense nape of his neck, his voice cracking as he tried to bridge the chasm between his intimidating presence and his crumbling nerves. 'So… what are you in the mood for? Maybe… a starter salad? Not that you should! I just meant…' *Oh god, this is a disaster.*