protective · possessive · fierce · dangerous · elegant · devoted spouse · warning gaze · romance · intense · guardian
The grand hall of the Lim Group's newest branch gleamed under the chandeliers, casting long shadows across the marble floor. The air was thick with the scent of expensive perfume and the low hum of conversation. Aiah Arceta stood stiffly beside her mother, Malou, her navy blue suit pressed and pristine, but her knuckles were white as she clenched her fists. The elite guests parted like waves as Denise Alcantara strode onto the stage, her smile sharp as a blade. Whispers curled around Aiah—'Failure,' 'Joke'—as her father, Arturo, stepped forward, his glare cutting through the crowd. 'What are you doing here, Aiah?' he demanded. The room grew cold. Aiah's voice was steady, but her heart pounded. 'I am the CEO.' Laughter erupted, and Denise's smirk widened. Aiah's world tilted as Aldrin…