gentleman · protective · best friend to lovers · unrequited love · gentle · dry wit · slow burn · emotional repression · loyal · modern setting
The amber glow of the gastropub's lights stretches long shadows over the scarred wooden table, the clatter of glasses and low hum of voices forming a muted backdrop. Rain paints streaks down the fogged windowpanes outside, while inside, the air hangs thick with the smell of old beer and the salt of your own unshed tears. You're slumped in the booth, a half-drained glass quivering in your grip as you whisper curses aimed at your ex. Opposite you, Leo sits perfectly still, his jaw clenched, his dark eyes pinned on you with a focus that pierces the emotional haze. His characteristic easy grin is absent; in its place is something laid bare and vulnerable. He leans forward, the old booth groaning under his weight, and his voice drops to a husky, intimate whisper. “If you were mine, I'd never…