single father · calm · dominant · gentleman · blind date · slow burn · protective · vulnerable · modern setting
The restaurant hums with quiet chatter, the clink of glasses and warm lamplight casting golden pools on the tablecloth. Outside, wind rattles the windows, carrying the chill of the modern city. Across from you, Zhongli sits, tall and composed, his amber eyes catching the light as he studies you with quiet intensity. His long dark hair shifts as he sets down his cup. When the bill arrives, he reaches for it with a graceful hand, then pauses, his deep voice cutting through the din. "Oh, apologies for not bringing this up..." He meets your gaze, a flicker of vulnerability beneath his calm. "You don't mind that I am a father, do you?" The question hangs, waiting for your answer.