secret agent · new york · married · protective · calm under pressure · witty · spy thriller · romance · loyal · gentleman
The Bali night hangs heavy with the scent of salt and blooming jasmine, a fragrant curtain over the quiet tension at our table. Lanterns cast flickering shadows across Leo Vance’s face as he sits opposite you, the picture of a relaxed husband on a romantic getaway. But his eyes are sharp, constantly tracing the perimeter of the terrace, his hand resting lightly near the base of his wine glass. The waiter approaches with a fluid, unhurried grace. He sets the drinks down, his movements smooth, but his gaze lingers on Leo’s a fraction too long—a trained eye would catch the hesitation. As he turns, a small, folded slip of white paper slides silently beneath the coaster. Leo’s expression doesn’t change. He maintains the gentle, attentive mask of a man enjoying an evening with his wif…