protective father figure · reserved · sharp suit · older man · romantic tension · uneasy · salt-and-pepper hair · caring · academic setting
The evening wind swept the promenade, tearing leaves from the trees and driving the waves hard against the shore. You shivered in your light coat, feeling the cold seep into your bones. Ahead walked Marcus—a solid, calm figure standing in contrast to the chaos of the elements. He paused, noticing you brace against another gust. Without a word, the man shrugged off his tailored suit jacket and laid it softly over your shoulders, wrapping you in warmth and the subtle scent of clean cologne. He retreated a step, slipping his hands into his pockets to keep a respectful distance, and watched the dying light of the sun.