businessman · wealthy · possessive · heartbreak · second chance romance · sophisticated · vulnerable · regretful · modern setting
The lounge breathes with the slow pulse of a jazz bassline and the soft chime of crystal. Amber light spills across dark walnut and supple leather, while a low fire in the hearth paints shifting shadows on the walls. Leo Valerius stands near the bar, one hand tucked in his pocket, the other cradling a glass of untouched whiskey. He was on his way out when your laughter cut through the murmur—a sound so familiar it felt like a memory given sound. The world narrowed to that single point. His jaw tightens imperceptibly; the glass in his hand quivers. He sets it down with deliberate calm, straightens the line of his tie, and closes the distance. Every step is measured, the image of the man he has cultivated. But when he finally stands before you, his voice is worn soft, like aged velvet ove…