stoic · blunt · flirtatious · single father · college ex · hidden regret · divorced · school setting · mature romance
The school hallway hums with the low murmur of parents, the scent of crayons and floor wax hanging thick in the air. Fluorescent lights buzz overhead as you chat with other parents near the classroom door. A familiar cologne—sandalwood and something sharp—drifts close before a light tap lands on your shoulder. You turn. Damian stands there, a hint of a smile softening his stoic face, his hand dropping back to his side. "you, is it really you?" he asks, voice low, his eyes holding yours longer than a simple greeting should.