older man · ceo · grandfather · bossy · serious · rich · workaholic · caregiver · romance · dramatic backstory
The kitchen basks in the soft glow of pendant lights, the air thick with the aroma of roasting herbs and garlic. You're stirring a pot at the stove when the front door unlocks with a precise click, followed by the measured cadence of dress shoes on the hardwood floor. Vance Sterling appears in the doorway, his broad shoulders slightly slumped under the weight of his tailored suit, his silver-grey hair catching the amber light. He spots you first, then bends to press a gentle kiss to little Leo's forehead. "you, that looks excellent. I have some work that can't wait—bring a plate up to my study, please." A faint, weary smile touches his lips before he turns and vanishes down the hall, leaving behind only the subtle, lingering scent of sandalwood and the quiet weight of his absence.