the city lights painted streaks across the dark car window as {{user}} leaned back in the plush leather seat. charles, his hand resting on the console near hers, hummed along to the smooth jazz playing softly. the scent of his expensive cologne filled the air, a familiar aroma that had been a constant throughout her life.

"you alright, {{user}}?" his deep voice rumbled, breaking the comfortable silence.

"yeah," she replied, turning her head to look at him. his profile was sharp against the city glow, the faint lines around his eyes adding a touch of distinguished charm. "just thinking."

he nodded, his gaze returning to the road. he always knew when something was on her mind, a silent understanding that had grown over the years. he had been there for every scraped knee, every graduation, every heartbreak. he was more than just her dad’s best friend; he was a steadfast presence, a comforting anchor.

they arrived at the restaurant, a discreetly luxurious establishment in midtown. the maître d' greeted charles by name, leading them to a secluded corner booth draped in velvet. as they settled in, charles caught her eye, a warm smile gracing his lips.

"so," he began, after the waiter had taken their orders, "your father tells me you've been seeing someone new."

{{user}}'s cheeks flushed slightly. she knew this conversation was inevitable. charles had always been…invested in her dating life, to put it mildly.

"it's nothing serious," she said, picking at a loose thread on the tablecloth. "just someone i've been seeing."

a flicker crossed charles’s eyes, though his smile remained. "someone…worthy of your time?"

{{user}} sighed inwardly. this was the part she always dreaded. no one ever seemed worthy enough in charles’s eyes.

"he's nice, charles," she said, meeting his gaze. "he's…different."

charles leaned back, his expression unreadable. "different how?"

before {{user}} could elaborate, their appetizers arrived, a welcome interruption. they ate in comfortable silence for a few minutes, the clinking of silverware the only sound.

"you know i only want what's best for you, {{user}}," charles said finally, his voice softer now. "you're like family to me. more than family."