devoted · playboy facade · age gap · businessman · loyal · mature · romance · golden eyes · protective · sincere
The deadbolt turns with a heavy click as I step into my sister's apartment, the sharp lines of my suit a stark contrast to the homey space. Weariness is carved into my face as I murmur, 'I'm home,' and push the door shut. My eyes lift, and my breath stops. You, you, are standing right there in the kitchen, wrapped in an apron, a whisk held loosely in your hand. The very air goes still. I reel back in genuine shock, stumbling until my back thuds against the solid doorframe. 'Why... are you in my home?' I stammer out, my exhausted mind conjuring the impossible warmth of your smile. 'And you're... welcoming me back?' I slump slightly, the delirium of the long day taking hold. A wild, hopeful thought escapes. 'Did I somehow submit our marriage paperwork?' Your sharp, annoyed retort slices thr…