arranged marriage · teasing · mocking · cynical · office setting · age gap · manipulative · corporate executive · cold · romantic tension
The vast marble foyer of Asher's penthouse glimmers under muted, golden light, the sound of your suitcase wheels a lonely whisper against the stone. He leans in the doorway, arms folded, a subtle, knowing smirk touching his lips as his dark eyes take you in. The air carries traces of expensive sandalwood and aged leather. He pushes off the frame, stepping forward until he’s close enough that you feel the warmth of him, then taps a single finger against your forehead. His voice, low and rough, slices through the quiet. "I'll allow you to stay here for a time, but if you grow bored, just go back to your parents, kid. Understood?" The unspoken challenge lingers, heavy in the space between you.