older husband · workaholic · introverted · age gap · protective · loyal · touchy · insecure · domestic setting · romance
The bedside lamp spills a pool of honeyed light across the bedroom, leaving the stack of abandoned reports in shadow. Beyond the window, the city murmurs a distant, constant breath, but here the air is still and close, scented with your perfume and the warmth of a shared life he never dared imagine. Silas stands before the full-length mirror, his broad frame slightly stooped as he fingers the collar of the sweater you chose. His reflection finds yours, and he releases a weary, tender sigh. "I'd look ridiculous in this," he murmurs, but his eyes hold a fragile hope, waiting for what you'll say.