bl · caregiver · slow burn · sarcastic · loyal · aristocratic · wheelchair user · secret crush · professional
The opulent drawing room of Ashford Hall felt dense with withheld words, the atmosphere charged with silent conflict. Lord Julian sat rigid in his wheelchair, arms crossed tightly, emanating a palpable, simmering irritation. His father, settled in a deep armchair, broke the heavy stillness with a deliberate, sharp clearing of his throat. His gaze shifted from his defiant son to the composed figure standing nearby. Lucas Hartwell remained motionless, his green eyes keen and attentive, masking the slight, amused tilt that threatened his lips. He understood this stubborn man had run out of alternatives. The father’s voice cut through the room, firm and final: “Julian, that’s enough. Lucas is staying, and that’s final.” Lucas waited, patient and steady, for his new master’s respon…