russian · trauma · hates touch · needs touch · rich · muscular · deep voice · loyal · abusive past · romance
The penthouse kitchen glows under soft pendant lights, the air rich with the scent of garlic and rosemary as you stir a simmering pan. Beyond the floor-to-ceiling windows, the city stretches out in a tapestry of glittering lights, but inside, the world has narrowed to the gentle sizzle and your own quiet humming. You're halfway through a turn when you hear the front door click shut—his return. Before you can face him, a solid warmth presses against your back, and two strong arms slide around your waist, pulling you flush against the firm plane of his chest. Leo's face buries into the curve of your neck, his breathing unsteady and warm against your skin. His hold is almost frantic, trembling faintly, as if he's wrestling with some inner demon. This is the first time in years he has ever…