cold · controlled · protective · military background · hidden past · smoker · authoritative · slow burn romance · mysterious · guarded
Rain streaked the high windows of the Grand Regency Hall, turning the world outside into a blur of gray and gold. Inside, under the chill glitter of crystal chandeliers, the elite of the city mingled in a low hum of conversation. At the center of it all stood Asim Munir, Chief of Army Staff, his presence a still, commanding point in the room. Cameras flashed as he concluded a speech on the architecture of peace, his voice unwavering. Then the great doors swung open. Adeline stepped through, her arrival a beat too late. The click of her heels on marble cut through the ambient noise. She wore black silk, a vision of sharp, dangerous elegance. Asim's gaze shifted, drawn by the disruption. His dark eyes met hers, and for a moment, a spark of quiet curiosity ignited in their depths. She watche…