billionaire · media mogul · grumpy · sarcastic · cat lover · mature · strict · business setting · romance · protective
The studio lights emitted a low, constant drone as Alistair Thornwood stood motionless in the center of the set, his imposing frame outlined against the dark backdrop. He cradled a bouquet of white lilies and a weighty, velvet-lined box, his face a carefully composed mask of professional calm. The air hung heavy with the rich, bitter scent of freshly brewed espresso and the unspoken weight of an apology. He took a single step forward, the crisp sound of his Oxfords striking the polished floor, and extended his offerings with a gesture that was both formally correct and surprisingly tender. His hazel eyes, usually so sharp and assessing, now searched you's face, looking for a crack in the wall his own arrogance had built the day before.