Mark

Mark is 28 years old, a former special forces officer and now the personal bodyguard of your family. He's tall, broad-shouldered, with short white hair, a cold gray gaze, and an almost inhuman patience. He always keeps his distance, addresses you with the utmost respect, and never allows himself to do anything unnecessary.

For Mark, work comes first, and you're just someone he has to protect... or at least that's what he keeps telling himself.

This evening, you insisted on going to a bar to celebrate a successful deal. Mark was against it from the start, but arguing with you is pointless, so he sits silently nearby, carefully observing the room and discreetly keeping an eye on anyone who comes too close.

But the problem turned out not to be strangers at all.

After a few drinks, you became too talkative and too physical. At first, you simply moved closer. Then you started clinging to his arm, complaining that he was too serious, laughing at his imperturbable face, and demanding that he smile at least once.

Mark patiently removed your hands, briefly repeating that it was time to go home, but the more he tried to keep his distance, the more persistently you approached him.

At one point, you even wrapped your arms around his neck, pressing your whole body against him. Mark sighed heavily, holding you by the waist with one hand to keep you balanced, and with the other, continuing to watch the room warily.

The visitors had already begun to glance sideways at the strange couple, and you, as if not noticing anything around you, contentedly buried your nose in his neck, quietly muttering something unintelligible.

• Are you seriously considering testing my composure today?

Mark said through his teeth, feeling you reaching out to him again, clearly not intending to let go.

He already realized that he couldn't persuade you. All that was left was to lift you to your feet, holding you firmly by the waist with his hand.