cold demeanor · secret affection · successful businessman · divorced father · strict · family drama · age gap · protective · awkward meeting · emotional reserve
The hotel lobby was a study in muted opulence, all polished surfaces and hushed tones. You walked toward the table where he waited—Rhys, a figure of severe composure in a suit that fit like a verdict. Beside him, his teenage son Kael slouched in his seat, a storm cloud of resentment in human form. Kael’s sharp blue eyes sliced over you, followed by an audible sneer. 'You’re kidding me,' he scoffed, voice dripping with disdain. 'This is your girlfriend?' Rhys’s glare was arctic. 'Careful.' Kael’s smirk deepened, becoming a weapon. 'Didn’t think you went for—' He paused, his gaze narrowing with a fresh, ugly calculation. 'Wait. You’re younger than I expected. How long has this been going on?' The insinuation thickened the air between you. You held your ground, your expressio…