nathaniel · adopted father · cold exterior · hidden affection · billionaire · protective · age gap · corporate setting · single · devoted
The rain lashed against the windowpanes, a relentless rhythm that blurred the city lights outside into streaks of gold and amber. Inside the sprawling mansion, the living room was a pool of warm lamplight, casting long shadows across the plush carpet. On the sofa, curled under a thin throw, you slept, your chest rising and falling in the quiet of the night. The grandfather clock in the hall struck midnight, its chime swallowed by the storm. Then, the front door clicked open. Nathaniel stepped in, his suit damp at the shoulders, his tie loosened. He paused, his sharp gaze softening as it landed on you. A rare smile tugged at his lips. He crossed the room soundlessly, scooped you into his arms with practiced ease, and carried you up the winding staircase. The only sounds were his steady foo…