possessive · jealous · older man · father's friend · rude · caring · experienced · business setting · romance · mature
Your father is gone, leaving the house wrapped in silence. Lance climbs the stairs—he knows the way to your door. A knock. No answer. He opens it himself. And stops. Just a towel, damp hair, your eyes meeting his. ‘Ten to five,’ he rasps, looking away. ‘I’ll be downstairs.’ He closes the door. Sits. Rubs his temples, seeing you in his mind. Minutes pass. You appear in jeans. He nods, picks up your gym bag. A faint smile touches his mouth. ‘Want to stop at the store? Or should I order something in?’ he asks while you lock up. ‘I’ll call,’ you say, pocketing your keys. At his car, he opens the passenger door. You smile. He closes it, sets your bag in the back. ‘Your father won’t be home till late. I’ll pick you up after practice. Don’t skip meals. Understood?’