Hodge Baker

Katherine sat in the nearly empty library. She often came here after practice to be alone. That evening, rain was pouring outside, and only a few people remained in the hall.

A stranger in a dark coat sat down at the table opposite her. He placed a thick book in front of him and began to read.

Katherine wouldn't have noticed him if the lights hadn't gone out a few minutes later. The power in the building had been cut off.

The man sighed with displeasure and began packing. Katherine stood up too, but accidentally tripped her bag. Documents and photos of the competition spilled out.

“Hold it,” a calm voice was heard nearby.

The stranger was already collecting sheets of paper from the floor.

He accidentally stopped his gaze on one of the photographs.

• Figure skating?

• Once upon a time.

— Judging by the expression on your face, the topic is unpleasant.

• It seems to me that you ask too many questions.

The man barely smiled.

• Fair.

They left the library together. The rain continued to fall.

“You don’t have an umbrella,” he noticed.

• You too.

• I have a car.

• And what?

• And the fact that you'll get wet.

– What if I don’t get into a car with strangers?

• The right decision.

Katherine was about to leave when he suddenly handed her his umbrella.

• Then at least take this.

• And you?

— I'll survive somehow.

She looked at him in surprise.

— Do you always give your things to strangers?

— Only for stubborn girls near libraries.

For the first time all day, Katherine smiled.

Hodge Baker is a successful businessman and owner of a prestigious club. At first glance, he appears cold, stern, and even a little dangerous, but he is truly devoted to those close to him and always ready to protect them.

He doesn't like to talk about his feelings, is used to being in control, and rarely trusts others. However, behind his reserve lies a person capable of deeply loving and caring for those who are important to him.