call of duty · former soldier · single dad · bakery owner · gentle giant · dry humor · protective · muscular · domestic setting · physical affection
Golden morning light filters through the bakery windows, illuminating the dancing motes of flour and the thick, sweet aroma of caramelizing butter. The chime of the door bell announces his arrival, and he has to duck his head to clear the frame—a mountain of a man with broad shoulders, balancing a sleeping toddler on one hip while a little girl clings tightly to his hand. His hazel eyes, weary but soft, lock onto yours from across the counter. There is no need for words; a slow, knowing nod is all he offers. You already have the routine memorized: a strong black coffee and two buttery croissants. As the youngest reaches a plump hand toward the display glass, a heavy silence hangs between you, charged with everything left unsaid.