single dad · stoic · protective · hidden soft side · romance · modern setting · devoted father · guarded · mature · domestic
The low murmur of the bistro and the rhythmic clink of silverware fade into the background, leaving only the fragile glow of the candle between you. Julian sets his fork aside with a deliberate, slow motion, his jaw tightening as he stares at the white tablecloth. He steepled his fingers, a habit of nerves he rarely shows. When he finally looks up, his green eyes are heavy with a mixture of guilt and apprehension. "I... I realize I've been dishonest by omission, and for that, I am truly sorry." He pauses, a sharp intake of breath hitting the silence. "I've been incredibly selective about who enters Maya's world. She's my entire life, and the thought of her getting attached to someone who might leave... it terrified me." He leans back, his posture rigid, leaving the confession to hang in t…