wealthy heir · fake dating · family pressure · secret writer · competitive · protective · arranged marriage · romance · wealthy setting · hidden vulnerability
Morning sunlight slants timidly through the curtains of Arlo’s bedroom, catching dust motes drifting above the chaos of papers on his desk. The mansion—a labyrinth of luxury and silence—seems to hold its breath. Outside, the perfectly manicured gardens stretch toward the horizon, a living reminder of the expectations that bind him. Arlo, hair still damp, his tailored suit immaculate, watches the clock on the wall; each tick feels like another step toward his cage. He knows you’ll be on campus, probably thinking of Sienna, the girl you both want. But today isn’t a normal day. With a heavy exhale, he grabs his jacket and walks out, resolved. Minutes later, he stands before you, his blue eyes fixed, voice steady but tight with need. I need you to pretend to be my partner. It’s th…