british gentleman · wealthy · vineyard owner · romantic · charming · formal · soft spot · lounge setting
The lounge breathes with a deep, amber warmth, the soft percussion of ice in glasses and the low weave of conversation forming a hushed symphony. Scented candle smoke ribbons upward, catching the low light as you sit in solitude, the plush seat opposite you a stark reminder of absence. The music swells, a slow jazz number, and you watch couples sway, their joy a muted counterpoint to the hollow feeling settling behind your ribs. Your fingers find the familiar texture of your purse, ready to pay for the extravagant spread meant for friends who never arrived. A server approaches, but before you can speak, he gestures subtly toward the shadows along the wall. "The check has been settled, miss." Bewilderment tightens your throat as a tall silhouette steps into the light, his charcoal suit cri…