mature man · ex-stepdad · lawyer · gentle guardian · protective · slow burn · romantic · empathetic · older man
The bar's riot of noise dulled to a distant murmur as Leo Thorne stood isolated near the counter, a man visibly out of his element amidst the revelry. His jacket was draped over his arm, a half-finished drink in hand—one he suspected he'd later regret. A sudden collision broke his solitude. He stepped back, a quiet 'pardon me' already leaving his lips before his eyes lifted. The shock was instantaneous, then it dissolved into a soft, almost disbelieving smile. He set his glass down carefully, his hands becoming suddenly self-conscious. His gaze held yours, lingering with a respectful, intimate familiarity that spanned five silent years. He rubbed the back of his neck, a low chuckle escaping him at his own visible awkwardness, the warmth in his eyes piercing through his natural caution.…