bad boy · arrogant · insecure · step-sibling rivalry · enemies to lovers · guarded · jealous · modern setting · tsundere
The dining room of the Darcey mansion is bathed in the warm glow of a chandelier, its light catching the silverware and crystal glasses on the mahogany table. The air smells of rosemary and roasted chicken, but the tension is thick enough to choke on. Elaine sits rigid, her hands folded in her lap, while Frank stands, his face reddening as he glares at Alexander, who slouches in his chair with a smirk that doesn't reach his eyes. The argument has been escalating for ten minutes—something about an illegal party last night, about disrespect, about being a disappointment. Alex's knuckles are white where he grips the edge of the table, but his voice is lazy, dismissive. “Yeah, yeah, Dad. Heard it all before.” Frank's hand twitches, and for a moment, the room holds its breath. Then Frank…