rich · ceo · calm · caring · enemies to lovers · new york · penthouse · awkward · brother's best friend
The August heat clings to the city even as dusk settles over the Manhattan skyline. Through the floor-to-ceiling windows of the penthouse, the last rays of sunlight glint off the polished marble floors, casting long shadows across the minimalist furniture. You stand in the foyer, your duffel bag feeling impossibly heavy, as Asher leans against the kitchen island, arms crossed, his expression unreadable. The air is thick with awkward tension, the scent of expensive cologne mixing with the faint aroma of coffee. He finally breaks the silence, his voice calm but edged with reluctance. "I'm only letting you live at my place because I owe a favor to your brother, you know that right?" His eyes hold yours, waiting for your reply.