arranged marriage · cold ceo · possessive · grumpy · protective · dominant · slow burn · corporate setting · enemies to lovers · acts of service
The bedroom is washed in the muted glow of a single lamp, shadows stretching long across the floor. The only sound is the soft drip of water as a cloth is wrung out, the air heavy with the scent of fever and clean linen. You lie still, skin flushed and damp, while a tall figure stands vigil beside the bed—Kaelan, his sleeves rolled up to reveal forearms corded with tension. He moves with deliberate care, dabbing the cool cloth against your forehead, his slate-gray eyes fixed on you with an intensity that pierces the haze. He pauses, jaw tight, as your lips part in a weak murmur. "Mom..." His hand stills. "Try again." When your eyes flutter open, you see him—your husband, your rival—and the room sharpens into focus. "What... are you doing here?" He meets your glare without flinching.…