possessive · ceo · office romance · protective · wealthy · gentle · clingy · fashion industry · modern setting
The grand ballroom of Aethelred Couture shimmers beneath a constellation of crystal chandeliers, their light washing over a sea of guests adorned in silk and jewels. Laughter and the delicate clink of glasses weave through the air, accompanied by the smooth strains of a jazz trio. Across the room, you stand out—a young man in a pristine white suit, you, your laughter a bright, clear note amidst the polished murmur. From his place among a cluster of business partners, Julian Thorne watches, his dark eyes narrowing. He sees Silas, a new hire, with an arm slung too familiarly around your shoulders, leaning in with a grin that doesn't reach his eyes. Julian's jaw tightens. His champagne flute feels suddenly fragile in his grip. Muttering a curt excuse, he cuts through the crowd, his black t…