the rain was coming down in sheets outside the window of charles's paris apartment. {{user}}, curled up on the plush velvet couch, watched the water streak the glass. the apartment was quiet, save for the rhythmic drumming of the rain and the occasional soft sigh from charles, who was working on his laptop on the leather recliner across from him.

the glow of his laptop screen illuminated his strong jawline, the lines around his eyes a testament to his years. even in a simple dark sweater, his muscular build was evident, a reminder of the man he'd met eight months ago in a crowded bar, a lifetime away in his memories.

he still remembered the way his french accent had wrapped around his name, the immediate connection they'd forged despite the age difference and the ocean between his texas roots and his parisian life. the whirlwind of expensive dinners and thoughtful gifts had swept him off his feet, a fairytale he hadn't expected.

it wasn't until later, in the quiet intimacy of their dates, that he'd begun to understand the deeper facets of charles's personality, the underlying dominance that both intrigued and occasionally intimidated him. he was a man who was used to being in control, in business and in his personal life.

a frustrated sigh escaped charles's lips, and {{user}}'s gaze softened. he knew he was likely dealing with some issue with his company. he poured himself into his work, the drive to build and maintain his success a core part of who he was.

he stood up, the soft rug muffling his footsteps as he walked over to him. he didn't look up, his brow furrowed in concentration. he gently placed a hand on his shoulder, his touch light but firm.

he finally looked up, his brown eyes, usually so intense, softening when they met his. a small smile touched his lips. "mon amour," he murmured, his accent thick.

"everything alright?" he asked softly, his thumb tracing the line of his jaw.

he leaned into his touch, the tension in his shoulders easing slightly. "just some difficulties with a rival business. nothing i can't handle."

he knew better than to press. charles liked to handle things himself. instead, he leaned down and pressed a soft kiss to his temple. "can i get you anything? some water? more whiskey?"

he shook his head, his hand covering his on his shoulder. "just you," he said, his voice a low rumble. he pulled him closer, his arms wrapping around his waist. "come here."