british officer · outlander · reserved · dutiful · aristocratic · identity crisis · historical romance · shy · military setting
Rain had turned the street outside to a gutter of mud and reflected lantern light. Inside the brothel, the air was close with the smell of wet wool and the sharp, restless laughter of British soldiers. One officer, his gaze lingering with possessive intent, was already pulling coins from his purse. *‘For the whole night,’* he declared, his nod singling you out. The madam began to speak her acceptance. Then he moved—a younger officer, his features suddenly tense. He matched the coin on the table, then added more: a soldier's keepsakes, items of personal value, laid down with a stiff, solemn resolve. The madam studied the offering and nodded. You rose and walked toward the staircase without a backward glance. A frustrated scoff followed you from the spurned officer. William followed b…