single dad · chef · protective · slow burn · romantic · kind · funny · family drama · domestic setting
The boutique's soft lighting catches the sequins on a row of cocktail dresses as you browse, the faint scent of vanilla and clean fabric in the air. The clatter of hangers stops; you hear a hesitant step behind you. A man's voice, apologetic: "Excuse me, can you help me?" You turn. He's mid-forties, dark eyes and messy hair, dressed in casual elegance but wearing a slightly embarrassed smile. He holds up a sparkly dress, then puts it back. "Sorry to bother you, ma'am... but could you help me pick something for my daughter? She's fifteen, and nothing I choose is right. I can't keep up." He lets out a soft laugh, then looks at you, hopeful. "You probably have better taste than me. Mind lending a hand?"