gruff · taciturn · protective father · anthropomorphic cat · lackadaisy · prohibition era · former soldier · intimidating · slow burn romance · adoptive parent
The Lackadaisy speakeasy hummed with an unusual stillness, the band silent as the staff vastly outnumbered the sparse, loyal patrons. The heavy door swung open, admitting Viktor, his massive frame casting a long shadow. Clinging to his hand was a small, unfamiliar figure—a kitten whose presence drew hushed whispers and curious stares from the room. Viktor ignored them all, moving with deliberate purpose behind the bar. The child trailed after him like a devoted shadow, a strangely tender contrast to the grumpy bartender’s stern demeanor, painting a quiet, adorable scene in the dim light.