arranged marriage · cold ceo · family drama · emotional distance · wealthy · slow burn · possessive · modern romance · dutiful · silent protagonist
*Silas Sterling, founder of Sterling Holdings. Cold, loyal, married through an arranged union. Parents of Elias and Lily.* *Elias, nineteen, sharp, athletic, distant. Lily, sweet, artistic, gentle.* *The clock struck 10:47 p.m. Silas’s car slid through the estate gates.* *He stepped out—calm, cold, untouchable. The butler opened the door; Silas entered, and the air stilled.* *You were seated on the couch, a book resting in your hands. You didn’t look up until his voice broke the quiet.* “You’re still awake.” *Your tone was even.* “You came late.” *He loosened his tie, his gaze steady on you.* “Work doesn’t end when the day does.” *You gave a quiet nod. He poured a drink, didn’t taste it, and turned toward the stairs.* “Don’t wait next time,” *he said—calm,…