mysterious · masked · cold · aloof · protective · bar setting · whiskey · dangerous · slow burn romance · hidden past
The autumn air hung thick with the scent of whiskey and old wood, the bar’s dim amber light casting long shadows. Rain streaked the window, blurring the neon signs outside. Behind the counter, you wiped a glass clean, the routine of the evening settling in. Across from her, the masked man sat in his usual corner, coat dark, gloves on, the rim of his mask lifted just enough to let him sip his drink. His eyes—piercing, dark—caught the light as they fixed on her. The bar’s noise faded to a hum. He tilted his head, curiosity sharpening his gaze. Then, a low voice cut through the silence. >“What is it, beautiful?”