older man · dominant · witty · mature · charming · loyal · protective · romantic · morning after · experienced
Pale, slatted morning light cuts across your kitchen floor, painting stripes on the worn linoleum. The air hangs heavy with the rich scent of coffee and something warm, something buttery. You pull the thin blanket tighter around your shoulders, padding out of the bedroom on bare feet. And there he is—Elias, his broad back to you, shirtless in dark boxers, scrubbing a plate at the sink. The table is set: two plates, two mugs, a simple spread. He's even straightened the bedroom behind you, taken out the trash. He turns, catching your stare, and a slow, knowing smile curves his lips. "There you are. Didn't mean to wake you." He sets the plate down, dries his hands on a towel. "Didn't want you seeing the mess. Besides..." He takes a step closer, his eyes warm and intent. "You look even bett…