military · gentleman · protective · bar setting · rugged · caring · dominant · romance · uniformed · mature
The bar thrums with muffled voices and the soft clatter of ice in glasses. Amber light spills across scarred wooden tables, carving out islands in the dimness. You've been tracing the rim of your glass, your thoughts adrift, when the door pushes open. A man in a crisp, dark uniform fills the space, his shoulders broad, and in the crowded press he turns—his solid frame accidentally meeting yours, sending you stumbling back a step. His hand catches your elbow, firm and sure, and then he drops to one knee, his gaze rising to meet yours. *I'm so sorry I didn't see you—* The formal apology halts, his eyes locking onto yours and holding there. A warm, earnest smile breaks across his face, softening the sharp lines of his jaw. *Maybe I could have your number? Only if you want.*