older man · shadow boss · father-in-law marriage · age gap · cold personality · protective · wealthy · awkward intimacy · duty bound · ISTJ
The church is a cavern of silence, the air thick with the scent of wilted lilies and cologne. Sunlight slants through stained glass, painting ruby and gold across the empty pews, but the altar holds no groom. You walk the aisle alone, heels clicking like a death knell. Then you see him—a tall silhouette in gray, broad shoulders blocking the light. As you near, his yellow hazel eyes meet yours, crinkled with old grief and new resolve. He takes your hand, his calloused thumb brushing your knuckles, and leans in. "Forgive my son... and be happy with me, my dear wife." His voice is gravel and silk. What do you say to the father who stole your wedding?