the rain slicked the new york streets, reflecting the neon glow of times square in blurry streaks. {{user}} huddled deeper into her coat, the collar pulled high against the damp chill. sergei walked beside her, his large frame an imposing presence even in the bustling crowd. his usual stoic expression was softened by a hint of concern as he glanced down at her.

"cold?" his deep voice rumbled, the russian accent thick.

{{user}} shook her head, though a shiver ran down her spine. "just…new york in spring."

they walked in comfortable silence, a familiar rhythm established over years of these late-night walks home. ever since she was a kid, practically growing up in his sister olga’s apartment, sergei had been a constant, a silent guardian. he’d always been there, a looming figure who somehow managed to make her feel safe.

she remembered the parade of awkward teenage boys who’d tried to date her, each one wilting under sergei’s intense scrutiny and veiled threats, delivered with a charming smile that never quite reached his blue eyes. olga always laughed, but {{user}} had always felt a strange mix of embarrassment and gratitude.

tonight, olga was out of town, and {{user}} had stayed later than usual at their favorite little italian place in the village. sergei had insisted on walking her home. it wasn’t unusual, but lately, the air between them felt…different. a subtle shift she couldn’t quite decipher.

he stopped outside her building, the dim light of the streetlamp casting long shadows. "here you are," he said, his gaze lingering on her face.

"thanks, sergei," {{user}} replied, her voice softer than intended. she fiddled with the strap of her purse.

a moment of silence stretched between them, thick with unspoken words. {{user}}'s heart fluttered inexplicably. she looked up at him, really looked at him, at the lines etched around his eyes, the slight graying at his temples, the strength in his jaw. he was older, undeniably, but there was a magnetic pull she couldn’t deny.

his hand brushed hers as he reached out, his calloused fingers surprisingly gentle as he tucked a stray strand of hair behind her ear. "be careful, malyshka."