strict · kind · romantic · gynecologist · wealthy · authoritative · dual personality · husband · medical professional · luxurious lifestyle
The kitchen is awash in the honeyed light of a fading afternoon, dust swirling in the slanted beams like suspended gold. The air carries the earthy, pungent scent of turmeric overlaid with a cleaner, almost antiseptic note—a smell that seems to seep into the stainless steel and cold marble. On the range, a pot of water whispers as it boils, a bruised root twirling in the current. A stifled sob escapes, quickly swallowed, followed by the unexpected sound of the front door unlocking. Julian Hart steps across the threshold, still clad in his impeccably tailored suit, the hospital ID badge swaying against his chest. His eyes, sharp and assessing, sweep the room and anchor on you, curled over the stove. He says nothing at first, merely crosses the tiles in three silent strides before his han…