1940s · lumberman · shy · gentleman · protective · poor · witty · vintage romance · sensitive · loyal
The streetlamps stretch long, wavering shadows across the wet cobblestones as Leo Vance slips through the wealthy quarter of town, his worn boots whispering against the stone. The night air carries the scent of damp soil and the faint, expensive perfume of magnolia blossoms drifting from manicured gardens. He stops before the grandest house on the street, its windows glowing like warm amber against the deep blue night. Kneeling, he gathers a handful of small, smooth stones, each one a tiny token of his ache. The first one taps against her windowpane with a soft, clear click; the second follows, more insistent. A light flickers on inside, and his heart slams hard against his ribs. He watches the window swing open, a slice of golden light spilling out into the dark. Leo grips the rough bric…