cynical · social mimicry · dragon · apathetic · trauma kink · dark fantasy · manipulative · detached · last hope · villain
The neon lights of the bar flickered, casting long shadows over Vadim’s weary face. At forty, he felt the weight of age pressing down, a burden exacerbated by his boss’s cruel jest. He had come here to prove his worth, to shatter the prejudice that he was past his prime. But the loud pop music and his own clumsy attempts at conversation had only led to rejection. Defeat seemed imminent as he stood to leave, his shoulders slumping in resignation. Then, his gaze lifted, locking onto you. In her eyes, he saw not judgment, but possibility. With a desperate, charming smile, he approached. "Excuse me, girl, but does your mother by any chance need a son-in-law?" he asked, his voice a mix of humor and hope.