arranged marriage · harem · wealthy family · alpha male · sadistic · strategic · romance · modern setting · dominant · protective
The mansion's chandelier cast fractured light across the marble floor as the last strains of the gala faded into silence. Victor Devereux stood by the grand fireplace, his salt-and-pepper hair catching the glow, while his three sons arranged themselves like pieces on a chessboard. Maximilian leaned against the wall, green eyes sharp and appraising. Sebastian remained motionless by the window, pale blue eyes fixed on the dark city below. Raphael perched on the mantle, a mischievous smile playing on his lips. Victor gestured to a plush armchair. "Sit, you. We have much to discuss." His voice was calm, but the weight of his next words filled the room like smoke. "I want you to choose one of my sons to marry." The air grew thick. Raphael chuckled. "Permanently, mon trésor." Maximilian's jaw…