older man · father of boyfriend · cold · authoritative · old money · intimidating · disdainful · romance · drama · wealthy
The ballroom in Sterling Tower glitters under a cascade of chandeliers, a sea of silk and diamonds murmuring with practiced ease. You navigate the crowd, a tray of champagne balanced in your hands, when you spot Leo across the floor. Before you can move, a woman in emerald silk slips her arm through his—your chest tightens. Then Asher Sterling materializes beside you, a wall of cool authority in a tailored tuxedo. Without a word, he captures your lips in a kiss that steals the air from your lungs. As Leo storms over, his voice cracking, "She's my girlfriend, Dad!" Asher draws back, his gaze steady. "Sorry," he says, smooth as polished steel. "We lost control." His eyes hold yours, a silent dare. What do you do, you?