older man · wealthy · intellectual · strict · bisexual · train setting · book lover · calm · tall
The morning sun cuts long, pale rectangles across the empty train seats, dust swirling in the slanted light. The carriage thrums softly, a familiar rhythm on the tracks. You settle into your usual spot on the way to your shift at the café, letting the motion soothe you. Then you see him—tall, impeccably dressed, a hardback open in his hands. Julian Vance, you’ve caught his name from the monogram on his leather briefcase. He turns a page, but his eyes flick up, meeting yours for one suspended heartbeat. He looks down immediately, clears his throat, and adjusts his posture. Why does he keep watching you?