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My Best Friend's Dad (AJS Roleplaying x intelligenceseeker)

Adrian watched Michelle pick up her fork, the curve of her tank top emphasizing the swell of her chest with every breath. As Leah bantered about the trail, his gaze drifted, tracing the line of her collarbone, the gentle rise and fall of her shoulders. He reminded himself she was Leah's friend, entirely off-limits, but the thought only fuelled the heat behind his ribs.

He set down the coffee pot with a bit more force than necessary. His pulse thudded when Michelle's hand brushed the edge of the table, so close he could almost feel her warmth. In his mind's eye, he pictured her lean body stretched out on the porch, sunlight dancing across bare skin. The memory of her hesitant blush last night surfaced, and he allowed himself a fleeting fantasy of drawing her into his arms - her hair slipping between his fingers, her lips curved just so.

Leah's cheerful voice cut through his reverie. "Dad, remember, you're not coming on this one. You and I will have to catch up later." She flashed him a conspiratorial grin. "Don't be jealous."

He managed a steady laugh. "I'll survive. Just hold your pace - wouldn't want you getting lost."

As Leah gathered her water bottle and stretched, Adrian found himself watching Michelle's every move: the sway of her hips as she rose, the way her shorts hugged her form. He chastised himself—this was his daughter's friend, a guest under his roof - yet the image of her flushed face and softened lips haunted him. He inhaled deeply, focusing on the lingering scent of coffee and eggs, willing himself to think of anything else.

Leah slipped past him, heading for the door. "See you both soon," she called over her shoulder.

Alone now, Adrian's knuckles whitened around the mug. He closed his eyes, pressing the rim to his lips, and willed his thoughts back to the day ahead: chores, projects, the safe, familiar routine. Anything to drown out the echo of his own inappropriate desire.​
 
As Leah stepped outside Michelle placed her plate in the sink ‘I will wash the dishes when I’m back from the run, promise you won’t touch them?’ she asked with a smile

He gave her his word and a smile, this one she felt and it shot a jolt through her body that told her so much, she was more attracted to him than she has been to any guy, possibly ever. And it wasn’t just his physical appearance, it was his entire aura

As she made her way to the door she turned and saw his eyes lift abruptly, seemingly from watching her walk away ‘by the way, an amazing cook on top of all of this?’ she said as her eyes deliberately gave him a once over, without waiting for a response she turned and made her way outside to meet Leah for their run. Her heart already beating. What did she just do? Was that too much? Was that crossing a line? She knew it probably was but she also knew her body was giving her signals she should not ignore
 
Adrian watched the screen door click shut and felt a hollow ache in the quiet kitchen. He set his mug down, fingertips lingering on its handle as though searching for something solid to hold. Had he really seen what he thought he'd seen in Michelle's parting glance? Or was he projecting, stuck in a loop of longing ever since Claire's death? He took a steadying breath. She was Leah's friend, barely older than his daughter - could her attention truly be meant for him? Or was it the easy camaraderie she shared with everyone, something of her generation's casual warmth that he simply misread? He pressed his palm to the cool counter and reminded himself how quickly one misconstrues kindness for something more.

From the porch, Leah's light voice drifted through the open window. "Dad, you okay in there?" She stepped inside, stretching like a cat, her water bottle dangling from one hand. "You look like you've seen a ghost."

Adrian forced a chuckle, leaning back against the counter. "Just… making sure nothing's burning." He tapped the cold skillet as if it might scold him for neglect.

Leah's brow arched. "Right. You and your 'nothing's burning.'" She grinned, snagging her water bottle. "Go prove you can do chores, and then I'll try not to embarrass myself out there."

He picked up his mug, shaking off the sudden disbelief. Was he getting carried away? "I'll be fine," he said, striving for even calmness. "See you when you get back."

Leah squeezed his shoulder. "Love you, Dad."

He watched her disappear down the steps, then exhaled. The kitchen felt cavernous without their presence, every shadow a reminder of silence. He rinsed his mug, watching suds swirl down the drain - simple tasks grounding him back in reality.

As he set the dishes to dry, Adrian wrestled with his thoughts: was Michelle truly interested, or merely radiating her generous spirit? He straightened, squared his shoulders, and walked toward the porch. He'd give them the trail and the sunrise - and keep his doubts, his desires, locked safely inside.​
 
The run was good. A bit shorter than Michelle typically liked but the distance was perfect for Leah. The scenery, unsurprisingly, was absolutely breathtaking

Leah often teased Michelle about her chest, especially when they ran so that brought some good laughter to the run. They were so comfortable with each other and yet Michelle couldn’t bring herself to telling her she was crushing on her dad

As they got back inside, sweat glistening from her forehead, the tops of her breasts and down her ample cleavage, clearly visible if anyone cared to look

Michelle made her way to her room for a shower and passed Adrian’s room along the way, she saw him changing his top which only confirmed what she thought she knew about his physique. Smiling as she walked by and lowering her head, lifting her hand to cover her eyes as if she hadn’t already seen enough ‘I am so sorry’ she said softly as she hurried past.

That moment remained etched in her mind as she stripped out of her clothes and stepped into the shower. Yeah, she was definitely feeling many things for Adrian and she wasn’t going to be able to fight it much longer
 
Adrian paused in the hallway, shirt half-buttoned, as the memory of her hurried apology echoed in his mind. He had not intended anyone to see him like that, the plainness of changing clothes made sudden exposure feel too intimate. Now, standing in the soft morning light filtering through the curtains, he knew Michelle had witnessed more than a casual glimpse.

He smoothed his shirt over his torso again, aware of the subtle tension in his muscles. His pulse ticked at the thought of her seeing him unguarded - skin and form laid bare in a private moment. What had she thought? Surprise? Embarrassment? Desire? Respect? He imagined her stepping past, eyes darting away, cheeks tinged with apology. The possibility that she registered attraction stirred something unexpected: a mixture of vulnerability and a faint, unwelcome warmth in his chest.

Clearing his throat, he let out a soft breath and shifted his weight from one foot to the other. He considered speaking - mentioning the awkward moment, offering reassurance - but paused. Perhaps acknowledging it directly would only deepen the discomfort for both of them. Still, the knowledge lingered: she had seen him in a way few did anymore.

He moved toward the kitchen, each step deliberate. As he reached for a mug, his reflection in the window caught his eye: the lines at his temples, the lean build honed by routine exercise, and behind him, the quiet house. He wondered if Michelle's glance had held judgment or curiosity. He told himself it was generational ease - young people were more casual about bodies - but part of him suspected it was more: an unspoken recognition of attractiveness. He chastised himself: she was Leah's friend, off-limits.

He poured coffee, the dark liquid swirling in the mug. The familiar ritual grounded him, reminding him of boundaries. He would carry on as usual - kind host, caring father - burying the memory of her gaze beneath routine. And yet, in the quiet hum of morning, he admitted to himself the unexpected ache it left behind.​
 
The warm water poured over Michelle’s body. Her heightened arousal was evident, nipples hardened, labia swollen and sensitive, clit swollen and peeking through its hood. She had it bad for her friends dad, her body was making that abundantly clear to her.

She took her time getting dried off and dressed, she wasn’t one for much makeup so that made getting ready easier for her, but she was almost impatient in being able to see him again

As she stepped out of her room Leah was still in the shower so she made her way downstairs. Grabbing a glass of ice water she saw Adrian sitting by himself, she stepped in the room ‘I feel like I am intruding on your privacy every time I see you. Is it ok if I join you…again? And before you answer I am so sorry for upstairs a few moments ago’ she said with a shy yet cute smile
 
Adrian looked up as Michelle entered the kitchen, early light casting her silhouette in a soft glow. He rose from his seat, offering a warm smile. "You didn't intrude," he said, voice steady but low, aiming to ease any lingering awkwardness from before. He moved a chair closer and gestured toward it. "Please, sit. Coffee's fresh."

As she settled, Adrian's gaze flicked to the curve of her shoulders, the way her running top clung to her form. Fuck, he thought, she's stunning. Every line of her body seemed to draw his eyes despite the knot in his stomach reminding him she was his daughter's friend. He felt a charge - equal parts exhilaration and guilt - but he didn't shy away inwardly. He acknowledged the heat coiling in his chest, the pulse at his throat. She was adult, consenting, but the taboo edge made the attraction sharper.

He busied himself with pouring coffee, hands deliberate. The aroma filled the air as he placed the mug before her. "Here," he said, meeting her eyes. "No need to apologize again. That moment in the hallway - really, it's fine. Happens to anyone. You're welcome here."

Inside, his mind replayed her hurried apology, the quick glance downward, the way her cheeks must have burned. He imagined her noticing his body—bare chest revealed for a second—and wondered what raced through her mind. Desire? Surprise? He allowed himself the stark admission: he enjoyed that she saw him like that. For the first time since Claire, he felt alive in that way - a raw tension that both thrilled and alarmed him.

He took a sip of coffee, focusing on the warmth biting at the chill in the kitchen. "Take your time," he added quietly, though the words were for both of them: reassurance and a reminder to himself. He'd keep his composure, but he wouldn't deny the electric pull he felt. The balance was delicate: fatherly host on the surface, but beneath, a man keenly aware of a dangerous, intoxicating attraction he couldn't simply dismiss.​
 
With every word he spoke Michelle found herself being more and more attracted to him. There was this kind, yet extremely masculine nature to him, it was something she couldn’t quite comprehend, the draw he had on her, but she was becoming more and more comfortable with it

As she grabbed a mug of coffee and shot him another smile as to say thanks she decided to be a bit more forward, if only just a little. ‘I have to say, not many men in their 50’s are in the kind of shape you are in. You very clearly take care of your body’

She took the moment without Leah nearby to dip her toes into those taboo waters, him being older and her friends dad. If only to see if she could get a read on him or at the very least how he would react to a younger woman so clearly admiring his appearance
 
He paused, letting the silence hang a heartbeat longer than necessary, gauging her reaction. Then he spoke, more directly than before: "When you complimented me earlier, I felt something I haven't felt in years. I won't pretend it didn't matter." His gaze held hers, unflinching. "You have a presence - intense, confident, and undeniably beautiful. It's hard not to notice."

He stepped a little closer, narrowing the space but stopping well before overstepping. "You've seen me unguarded - had that awkward moment - and you didn't look away completely. That tells me something." He let the implication linger: does she want more? "I won't lie: knowing you find me attractive… it stirs things in me I thought long buried."

Adrian's heart pounded at the boldness of his words. He watched for any sign in her posture - though he spoke less, every phrase was chosen to provoke a response. "Still," he continued, voice steadier, "I'm bound by respect." He paused, exhaling slowly as he measured his next words. "But I needed you to know I see you clearly - your strength, your form, everything about you that drew my attention."

He sank back slightly, folding his arms but keeping his gaze direct. The kitchen felt charged in that silence. He'd said enough to test her boundaries - now it was up to her reaction, though he would not ask for it aloud. He simply offered a small, knowing smile, acknowledging the dangerous tension between them while holding firm to the boundary he wouldn't violate.​
 
Michelle’s heart was pounding as he spoke. His words were as much a turn on as his mere presence was. She listened intently and was sure to hold eye contact to let him know she was all in on his words.

‘Hearing you say that, you have no idea how that makes me feel. To be truly seen is something I am not sure I’ve ever experienced, so thank you for that’ she paused as she sipped her coffee, eyes still locked on him over the rim of the mug

‘And I completely understand the being bound by respect, that says a lot about you and I would never want to do anything to upset Leah. But if I left here without letting it be seen that I insanely into you I think I would beat myself up with regret’

She was proud of herself, if not guilty and terrified a bit at the same time. She had never found herself so drawn to someone like she has with Adrian, especially in such a short period of time. She worried she came across as immature or as having a little schoolgirl crush, but what she was feeling was 100% real and genuine
 
Adrian felt a tightening in his chest as he registered the weight of her confession, even without her words laid bare in the room. He noted the intensity in her gaze - how she sat forward, coffee mug cradled in both hands but never lowering her eyes. He allowed himself a single steadying breath before responding.

He tilted his head slightly, meeting her eye contact with a calm, deliberate steadiness. "I hear you," he began, voice low but certain. "Thank you for trusting me with that." He paused, watching the shift in the light across her expression. Inside, he acknowledged the thrill: here was a woman, vibrant and genuine, declaring a powerful attraction to him. The taboo pressed at him, yet the sincerity in her demeanour made it all the more potent.

Leaning forward, he set his coffee down, fingertips brushing the rim as if to anchor himself. "I won't pretend I'm unaffected. Your honesty means more than you might realize." He let the vulnerability in his tone surface briefly. "Attraction is natural, and you're right - feeling truly seen is rare. I won't lie: I've noticed you, too. You have a presence that's impossible to ignore."

He straightened, running a hand through his hair, wrestling with the surge of desire and duty. "But you must understand: you're Leah's friend, and our roles here demand respect. I cannot betray that trust." He studied her reaction, gauging the tension between honesty and restraint. "I admire you deeply - your strength, your openness, your beauty. And I won't dismiss those feelings because they're genuine. Still, nothing can compromise the respect I owe Leah or the integrity I hold."

He paused again, voice softening. "This moment - your courage in speaking, my own conflicted honesty - it's significant. But I need you to know I'll guard the boundary between us. I won't dismiss or diminish what you feel, but I also can't cross a line that would hurt someone I care for." He offered a measured, compassionate smile, aware that desire remained unspoken but acknowledged, and that this balance of truth and restraint defined the fragile space they occupied.​
 
Michelle heard his words and while disappointed it was a more profound respect, which oddly only increased her attraction

‘Thank you for your honesty and you’re right. I would never betray her trust or hurt her. Your words mean a lot and I respect your transparency more than you know. I am at least proud of myself for opening up like this, I typically never do something like this’

She paused for what seemed like an eternity, the silence between them was thick but not uncomfortable

‘And thank you for not making me feel silly. You really are an amazing guy, I have an even greater respect and admiration for you now’ she added without adding how much it even increased her desire and attraction for him. At that point she felt it best to leave those words unsaid
 
Adrian nodded, appreciating the depth of her response. The room felt heavy with unspoken feelings, but it was a space both of them navigated carefully. Just then, the sound of footsteps coming down the stairs pulled them from the moment. Leah appeared in the doorway, bright-eyed and ready, breaking the quiet naturally. Adrian smiled, grateful for the interruption.

"How about we make today a boat day?" he suggested, rising from his seat. "I've got a small powerboat down by the dock. Perfect weather for it."

Leah's face lit up with excitement, and Adrian could see Michelle's eyes flicker with anticipation as well. "I'll pack a lunch," Leah said cheerfully, already moving toward the kitchen.

Adrian glanced at Michelle. "Should be a good day out on the water," he said warmly. "A chance to relax and forget the usual worries for a bit."

As Leah busied herself preparing the food, Adrian went about gathering towels and life jackets. The peaceful hum of the lake called to him, a welcome distraction from the complicated emotions swirling just beneath the surface. When everything was ready, they headed out, the boat cutting smoothly through the shimmering water. The sun glinted on the lake's surface, a perfect mirror to the calm Adrian sought to hold inside himself. The day stretched ahead, promising simple pleasures, yet the undercurrent of tension remained - an unspoken current weaving silently between them as the boat cruised into the horizon.​
 
As Michelle helped Leah prepare food and drinks for the boat she felt a need to be honest with her. She was nervous and didn’t want to upset her in any way but she did have an urge to be completely open and honest with her, it was Michelle’s nature

‘I feel like I need to tell you something and I just want you to know that nothing happened but I do have to be honest.’ Michelle started before swallowing and taking a breath

‘I kind of talked to your dad about some feelings I’ve found myself unexpectedly having. I shared with him that I am very attracted to him but also more drawn to him because of the way he carries himself and speaks. He was a gentleman and expressed boundaries that would not be crossed due to not wanting to upset you or jeopardize any of our relationships. So he was nice about it but made it clear that those boundaries were real’

Leah could tell Michelle was nervous and was being honest and didn’t interrupt her as she spoke

‘I just felt a need to be honest with you. If you would prefer I leave I completely understand and will respect that decision. I don’t want to destroy an amazing friendship’

Her words hung for what felt like an eternity. Leah didn’t offer much other than to say that she appreciated Michelle’s openness and honesty, that she wasn’t mad more than she was thankful that Michelle trusted her enough to share that with her

Things somewhat became more normal as they finished packing the cooler and wheeling it out the back towards the dock
 
Adrian stood at the helm of the boat, eyes on the calm lake stretching ahead. He noticed the subtle shift in energy between the girls - a quiet tension lingering beneath the surface - but he chose not to mention it. Instead, he focused on the steady hum of the engine and the soft slap of water against the hull.

The sun was warm but gentle, casting golden light over the glistening waves as they cruised toward a secluded cove he often sought for moments of peace. The trees hugged the shoreline tightly, creating a private sanctuary shielded from the world beyond.

As the boat slowed to a stop, Adrian looked back to see Michelle and Leah exchanging a glance. Without a word, they both moved toward the edge, slipping off their shoes and easing into the water with an easy grace.

Adrian watched quietly, his gaze drifting between the two young women. There was something unspoken in their expressions - an undercurrent he sensed but wisely left untouched. He leaned back against the boat's seat, letting the breeze cool his skin, the tension in the air pressing lightly but not breaking the calm he sought to maintain.

After a moment, he called out, his voice warm but casual. "Let me know if you need anything. Towels, drinks - whatever."

He kept his eyes on the water, the secluded cove offering a momentary escape from the complexities waiting back on shore. For now, the gentle rocking of the boat and the quiet presence of the girls was enough, even if the undercurrents beneath the surface ran deep and tangled.​
 
The mood had definitely shifted some, more for Michelle than Leah. Michelle was an over thinker so she was worried she had upset Leah even though she assured her she hadnt

Michelle had not been that vulnerable in a long time and maybe this was a reminder why. But she suppressed any doubt and focused on enjoying herself with her friend as they waded in the lake.

Michelle was confident in her black and white bikini as they let the days sun shine on them. The peacefulness was so needed for her, this almost forcing of her to slow down was sorely needed, and reminded her to thank Leah again for pulling her away from her self made busyness to decompress there with her
 
Adrian waded into the cool water, feeling the sun warm his back as he swam a few strokes away from the boat. He glanced toward where Leah and Michelle remained closer to shore, noting the way the light glinted off the water and highlighted the silhouette of Michelle's form in her swimsuit. He acknowledged to himself how striking she looked, then pushed the thought down, reminding himself of boundaries as he performed a few more strokes.

After swimming long enough to clear his mind, he returned to the boat and climbed aboard, towel draped over one shoulder. He retrieved the cooler Leah had packed: sandwiches, fruit, and chilled water bottles. He arranged plates and drinks on the boat's small table, taking care to move deliberately, grounding himself in the simple task.

"Lunch is ready," he called, keeping his tone light. He watched Leah swim over and climb in first; when Michelle joined, he offered a warm smile but said nothing further, letting the peaceful cove speak for itself. He handed out sandwiches and poured water, then leaned back against the seat, taking in the silence broken only by gentle waves lapping at the hull.

Between bites, Adrian pointed toward a stand of cedar trees. "See those rocks beyond the far shore? They catch the sunset in a way that's almost otherworldly. We can head there later if you like." His voice was calm, an invitation to linger in the quiet.

He caught Michelle's eye briefly as she ate, and offered a small nod of appreciation for her company, careful to remain composed. He sensed the subtle shift in mood - a deeper calm paired with an undercurrent of tension - but chose not to comment. Instead, he sipped his water, savouring the moment: warm sun overhead, secluded cove all around, and the knowledge that this day offered respite for everyone.

As he leaned forward, brushing crumbs from the table, he allowed himself gratitude for the peace of the lake and resolve to honour his role: present, attentive, and respectfully aware of the unspoken currents between them.​
 
There was definitely a more subdued a quiet tone than before and Michelle had no doubt it was due to her opening up to Adrian about her attraction and to admitting the same to Leah. She only had herself to blame and was being introspective as a result. She should have just kept it to herself she scolded herself internally

She tried just taking in the environment, the lake and surrounding area was truly beautiful and serene. As she ate she looked around after thanking Adrian and Leah again for the day and the opportunity to just relax, reiterating how much she needed this.

Given her conversation with Leah she became a little self conscious being in a bikini and carefully placed the towel over her shoulders in a way in which it covered her very large breasts, she didn’t know why she did it considering he had already seen her in it but in a way it was an attempt at being respectful to both of them.

The calmness and quiet was nice but also led to overthink her actions of the day.
 
Adrian sensed the subtle shift in the air as he leaned back against the hull, the secluded cove's hush now tinged with introspection. He watched the way Michelle had wrapped the towel over her shoulders, noting the careful placement though he knew she felt self-conscious. He understood how quickly one's own mind can spin thoughts in such quiet moments.

He cleared his throat softly, catching Leah's eye across the boat. "This place can make you overthink," he remarked gently, voice carrying across the lunch debris. "When I first discovered this cove, I'd sit here for hours, wrestling with memories. It's normal to feel that pull." He offered a small, knowing smile, as if sharing a private acknowledgment of the weight silence can bring.

Adrian guided the boat up onto the trailer and secured it, then walked with Leah back toward the house. The late afternoon sun slanted between the pines, and the air felt both warm and hushed after their day on the water. Inside, the house was quiet; Michelle had already gone ahead to rest. Adrian guided Leah into the living room, the late afternoon light soft against the walls. He seated them both and observed Leah's composed but serious expression.

"Dad, I want to talk about Michelle," Leah began gently. "She was brave in sharing her feelings with both of us. I know you've set boundaries, and I respect that. But I also want to speak openly about what's best for everyone."

Adrian nodded, voice calm. "Thank you for bringing it up. I know this is delicate. My priority remains protecting our trust and her well-being, and I've been careful to maintain that boundary."

Leah looked thoughtful. "I appreciate how you handled it. I care deeply about Michelle, and I want her to find happiness. Part of me wondered if there could ever be a way for you two to explore something more."

He listened, noting her sincerity and maturity. "It means a lot that you're considering this so thoughtfully. I value your perspective."

Leah continued: "I love Michelle and want her to be happy, and I want you to be happy too. You have not dated since Mom passed. I've always wondered whether you would find love again."

Adrian sat quietly for a moment, absorbing Leah's words. The late afternoon light fell across his face as he leaned forward, elbows on his knees. He ran a hand through his hair, gathering his thoughts.

"Leah," he began softly, "your concern for both Michelle and me means more than I can say." He paused, looking out the window at the pines, recalling the gentle hush of the cove. "I haven't allowed myself to consider romance since your mother passed. Partly out of loyalty, partly out of fear of starting over." He met Leah's eyes again. "But the idea of finding love… it's something I've thought about quietly. Yet with Michelle, those thoughts have become sharper. Are you saying you would be OK with this?

Leah took a deep breath before saying, "I would. It would be weird at first, but I think I can see past that and see that you two could make each other happy".​
 
Michelle looked in Adrian’s eyes when he made the comment about overthinking. It was as if he was inside of her mind and knew she needed to hear that acknowledgment. Again, she felt seen and understood, in a way she never had before. It drew her in slightly but she looked away to respect both he and Leah, not wanting her holding a look too intently to be noticed by either of them, but especially Leah

As they made their way back to the house Michelle let them know that she was going to lay down and call her mom for a little bit. Retreating to her room she found herself picturing Adrian’s body and voice in her mind yet again. It was a real strong attraction, to more than just the physical, and it was eating at her, in good and bad ways
 
After their conversation, he embraced Leah gently, feeling the steady warmth of her trust. "Thank you for understanding, sweetheart," he whispered, brushing a strand of hair from her face. She nodded, offering a small, reassuring smile before heading off to check on Michelle.

Once Leah was gone, Adrian sank into the armchair, hands folded in his lap. The house was quiet, save for the soft hum of the ceiling fan and distant sounds of the woods outside. He glanced toward the hallway, recalling how Michelle had retreated to her room to call her mother. He felt a measured concern—paternal more than anything—wondering if she was restless or troubled.

Rising, he walked slowly toward the hallway, pausing outside Michelle's door. He placed a hand lightly on the doorknob, hesitating. He trusted her independence but wanted to ensure she was alright. Clearing his throat softly, he spoke through the door. "Michelle, if you need anything, just let me know. Take your time, but don't hesitate to call down if you'd like company or a glass of water."

He stepped back, giving her space. As he returned to the living room, he poured himself a cup of tea from the pot Leah had brewed earlier. He sat by the window overlooking the pines, cradling the warm mug, reflecting on the day's delicate balance. He reminded himself of the boundary he'd reaffirmed, the respect owed to Leah and Michelle both.

Minutes passed, and he listened for footsteps or the soft click of her door opening. In the hush, he allowed himself gratitude for Leah's maturity and Michelle's honesty—while keeping his own feelings quietly in check. When Michelle re-emerged, he would greet her with kindness and normalcy, mindful of the trust they all shared. Until then, he sipped his tea and watched the light shift through the trees, steady and attentive in the stillness.​
 
Michelle heard him outside the door and responded ‘Thank you so much, I’ll be down in a little bit’ saying it sweetly

As she hung up with her mom she took her bikini off and threw on a casual t shirt that covered her butt that had form fitting boy shorts adorning her bottom

She made her way to the living room where Adrian was and just put it out there - ‘I am so sorry if I made things uncomfortable this morning. It wasn’t my intent but there is just something about you that made me feel comfortable sharing my feelings with. I promise to respect the boundaries you set and will not cross any lines. Thank you for being so honest and gentle with me earlier’

She let her words hang in a sincere and vulnerable moment. As he sat shirtless she teased him ‘it might be easier for me if you put a shirt on’ she said with a cute giggle
 
Adrian looked up as Michelle entered the room, noting the casual T-shirt and how her boy shorts fit almost like a second skin. He offered a small, teasing smile. "Those shorts are so snug it's like someone painted them on," he remarked, voice light but intentionally pointed. "I might need shades indoors at this rate."

He guided her toward the couch, patting the cushion beside him. As she settled, he folded his shirt neatly over the armrest and sat down, maintaining a composed posture. He cleared his throat softly. "I heard what you said earlier - how you feel and your apology. I appreciate you coming down and being open. I want you to know I value that honesty and the respect you've shown."

He paused, choosing his words carefully. "Leah and I talked after you retreated upstairs. She cares deeply about you - and about my happiness. She said she'd want any path that leads to your happiness to be honoured, even if it's difficult to imagine right now. That means she would try to make peace if something genuine grew between us."

Adrian watched the reaction in her posture without looking at her face. He folded his hands in his lap. "I'm grateful to Leah for her maturity and for you trusting her enough to share. But I also carry a responsibility: to protect our relationship, to protect her. Even with her blessing, I must consider the weight of moving forward. It's complicated."

He leaned back, exhaling slowly. "Hearing that Leah could accept it makes me think - could I? There's an undeniable pull, but crossing a line carries consequences. I need to honour what you and Leah have built while staying true to my own principles. I don't have immediate answers, only gratitude for the trust and the clarity you've shown."

He gave a tentative, reassuring smile. "We'll navigate this with care. For now, let's keep enjoying the day - knowing that honest conversation between us has already changed something, and we'll figure out the rest together."​
 
As Michelle sat next to Adrian her heart returned to that familiar thump when near him. She appreciated his kind and gentle approach to his words as she listened intently

She was absolutely not expecting them to unfold the way they did, so she was surprised, but also excited at the same time

‘I, too, want everyone to be comfortable in all of this, whatever this may or may not become, so just now that I am patient and I am thankful that you and Leah spoke. I’m sure that wasn’t easy for either of you’ she paused for a moment and situated herself on the couch to where she was sitting Indian style next to him but turned to face him

‘I also know you’ll be honest with me. And I know how significant the age gap is and obviously the situation adds some complexity to it, but I just feel something in me that I haven’t felt in a long time. Even just sitting next to you, in my ‘painted on shorts’ (she touched his arm as she kidded with that comment) I feel things all over my body that I’ve never felt before’ she smiled with her hand still placed atop his arm ‘and…they are all like really, really good feelings’
 
Adrian remained seated on the couch, absorbing the gravity of Michelle's words even without hearing her voice again. He felt the familiar tension in his chest as he considered his response. Rising, he smoothed his shirt and took a deliberate breath before speaking in a steady, measured tone.

"I think it would be good for you to spend the remainder of your stay focusing on your friendship with Leah," he said, eyes on the floor for a moment as he chose his words. "You both have a bond that deserves undivided attention right now. Time with her will help ground you after everything you've shared."

He paused, then looked up with a gentle firmness. "I'll be traveling to the city soon for work. Before we consider anything further between us, I'd like to take you out in a more public setting - something simple, like coffee or a casual lunch. It would give us both a chance to understand what this attraction means outside the context of home and the lake. I want to approach this responsibly."

Adrian ran a hand through his hair, feeling the weight of his own suggestion. "I'm not asking for immediate decisions or commitments - just an opportunity to see if there's substance beyond the intensity of these days. I respect the boundaries we've discussed and the trust I hold with Leah. This would be in the open, neutral ground, so nothing remains unspoken or ambiguous."

He settled back against the cushion, offering her a reassuring nod. "Take your time with Leah; enjoy the rest of your visit here without pressure. When I'm in the city next week, let me know if you'd like that outing. If not, I completely understand and will honor whatever feels right for you both. I value your honesty and want any next step to be thoughtful, not rushed."

Adrian then stood and moved toward the window, looking out at the trees. He let the silence stretch, trusting that clarity would come in its own time, and prepared himself to honor whatever path lay ahead.​
 
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