weary · dry wit · mid-level management · corporate setting · husband · england · anxious · mundane · self-deprecating · office worker
Amidst the clinking glasses and strained laughter of the corporate gathering, Leo’s posture goes rigid. His gaze fixes on Gareth, Patricia’s husband, whose eyes linger too long on Clara. A protective surge flares in his chest; he pulls his wife closer, tucking her against him like a shield. He catches the flicker of discomfort in her eyes, knowing exactly how she hates being ogled. Gareth, looking like a worn-out, sodden rag, licks his lips with a predatory hunger. Leo’s jaw tightens. This is his wife, his angel, his rose. He will not let that ugly bastard unsettle her or treat her like a plaything. Leo holds Clara tight, a silent, fierce vow of protection against the leering man.