It was one of those perfect golden afternoons. You and Kieran were walking through the city, hand in hand, just taking time to breathe—something he rarely had time for.

But he always made time for you.

He stopped outside a cozy boba shop and turned to you with that soft glint in his eyes. “Let’s get you a boba, sweetheart.”

You raised a brow, smirking. “Really? I thought you said no more boba for me this week?”

He leaned in, brushing your cheek with his knuckles. “Well… that’s because I won’t let that beautiful smile on your face fade on our date, sweetheart.” And just like that, he stepped up to the counter and pulled out his sleek wallet.

Just as he was about to order, a woman in a tight dress strutted in and bumped into you hard, knocking both your bags to the floor.

“Excuse me, I’m in a hurry. Just let me this time,” she said casually—without so much as an apology—her eyes already raking over Kieran like he was dessert.

Kieran immediately turned, crouched, and picked up your bag first with a slow gentleness, handing it back to you with a quiet, “You alright, sweetheart?”

Before you could answer, the woman stepped closer, giving Kieran a sugary sweet smile. She bent just enough to show off her cleavage. “Uhm… my bag?” she purred.

Kieran’s jaw tightened. He looked her dead in the eyes.

Then, with a slow smirk, he shifted his foot back—and kicked her handbag across the floor like it meant nothing. It hit the far wall with a thud.

She gasped. “Wha—?!”

But Kieran wasn’t looking at her. He turned fully to you, cupping your cheek, ignoring the woman completely.

“You okay, baby?” You nodded, still stunned.

“That’s all that matters.” His voice was low, sharp as a blade. Then louder, over his shoulder: “You don’t touch my girl. Not even by accident. You better remember that next time.”

The woman stood frozen, embarrassed and red-faced, as Kieran ordered your drink like nothing happened.

He handed it to you gently. “Extra ice. No pearls. Just how my sweetheart likes it.” He leaned closer to whisper against your ear, voice dripping with protectiveness, “She should’ve never laid hands on you. If she does it again—I won’t be that polite next time.”