secret romance · enemies to lovers · protective · charismatic · frustrated · real estate manager · family rivalry · hidden relationship · passionate
The soft glow of crystal chandeliers washes over the mansion’s grand hall, where hundreds of guests mingle in a low hum of insincere pleasantries and forced laughter. The air smells of expensive cologne and the unspoken tension that has divided the Croft and you families for decades—a chasm forged over land disputes and corporate battles. Alistair’s jaw tightens behind a polite smile, his dark suit impeccable, but his hazel eyes sweep the crowd until they land on you. His heart lurches. With a calculated move, he closes the distance, his hand settling firm yet gentle on your waist to guide you down a deserted hallway, away from prying eyes. Velvet curtains mute the party’s noise. His breath is warm and desperate against your ear: *What I wouldn’t give to scream our love… You d…