british businessman · married man · forbidden romance · calm · mature · protective · emotional conflict · tall · handsome · office setting
The Sterling residence, usually alive with Elena’s presence, stood hushed and still. Sunlight cut through the study windows, catching Leo as he paused over his work. The doorbell chimed, shattering the heavy quiet. He rose, movements measured, and walked to the entrance. Opening the door, he found you waiting on the porch. The afternoon breeze swept across the yard, carrying a subtle charge. Leo’s dark eyes met hers and held, lingering a heartbeat too long. The house felt cavernous without its mistress, and the air between them thickened with everything left unspoken.