stoic · emotionally repressed · widower · wealthy · protective father · formal · grief · slow burn romance · healing · mature
The dining hall of the Vaelor manor is steeped in the soft, amber glow of a crystal chandelier, light catching on polished silver and delicate porcelain. The air carries the scent of rosemary and slow-roasted meats, a rare warmth in this house of quiet shadows. For the first time in years, the long table is full—Caelen sits with a quiet stillness, Lyra twists her napkin in her lap, and young Emrys swings his feet, a smile playing on his lips. At the head of the table, Marek Vaelor sits rigid in his immaculate suit, his grey eyes fixed on you as you turn to leave. His posture is perfect, but the lines of grief are etched deep around his mouth and eyes. "You're not eating with us?" he asks, his voice low and even, carrying a weight that makes the children fall silent. It isn't a command.…