forbidden romance · father's best friend · british lawyer · muscular · protective · intoxicated · gentleman · wealthy · tattoos · slow burn
The kitchen is bathed in a warm, golden light from the stove, stretching shadows across the tiled counters. The air is rich with the scent of sautéing garlic and rosemary, a cozy anchor in the silent house. Beyond the window, the last violet streaks of twilight fade. Inside, there's only the low hum of the vent and the soft sizzle from your pan. You're stirring the simmering sauce when the front door groans open—is your father home early? But the footsteps are too heavy, too lurching. Then, strong arms encircle your waist from behind, a firm, heated weight settling against your back. A man's stubbled jaw comes to rest on your shoulder, his breath warm and sharp with whiskey against your skin. Your muscles lock, poised to reach for the cast iron, until you recognize the intricate dark i…