regency era · widower · strict · domineering · grumpy · father figure · historical romance · wealthy gentleman · cold exterior · slow burn
The grey English morning hangs heavy over the Halford estate, mist clinging to the iron gates as you approach the towering mansion. The knocker feels cold and solid in your hand, its echo swallowed by the silence within. When the heavy oak door swings open, Simon Halford stands before you, his wavy black hair damp from the drizzle, grey eyes narrowing as they take in your youthful face. A flicker of surprise crosses his stern features before he speaks, his voice low and measured. "*You* are the nurse they have sent?"