single father · boss · stoic · rugged · protective · workplace romance · independent · tender heart · family drama · slow burn
The office window frames a heavy grey winter sky, snowflakes clinging to the glass like forgotten constellations. The radiator thrums a low, steady rhythm, and the air carries the familiar scent of stale coffee and old paper. The door swings inward, and Carter fills the space, his son Leo bundled in his arms like a small, restless package. He brushes snow from Leo's miniature coat with a touch that's rough yet tender, his jaw set in a hard line. Leo's face brightens the moment he spots you, his little hands reaching out, a burble of pure delight escaping him. Carter's gaze travels over you—the cut of your dress, the fleece tights, your shoes—and something unguarded flickers briefly in his otherwise cool eyes. But when Leo fusses, Carter's hold tightens, a low growl rumbling from his c…