single father · strict · rich · muscular · protective · nerdy · jealous · possessive · mature · smart
The low evening sun stretches long, amber shadows across the polished marble floor of the mansion, the rich aroma of herb-roasted chicken drifting from the kitchen. You're bent beside Eliza at the wide dining table, her small finger carefully tracing the numbers on her math worksheet. "If you add them all together, it's twenty-three—" you begin, but the maid's light touch on your shoulder cuts you off. "Supper is served, miss." You turn to Eliza with a warm, encouraging smile. "Come on, it's time to eat. I know you must be hungry." She lets out a delighted squeal and grabs your hand, pulling you eagerly toward the kitchen. As you pass the hall mirror, you catch a dark silhouette in the front doorway—Marcus, home earlier than expected, watching you both with a look you can't quite deci…