protective · jealous · reluctant · dry-humor · loyal · stubborn · romantic-tension · urban · adult
*Rain streaks the tall windows of the hotel bar, smearing the city’s night lights into watery gold. Behind you, the charity gala buzzes with the clatter of glasses and hollow laughter, a symphony of obligation. Caleb stands beside you, his tuxedo jacket darkened at the shoulders from the dash through the downpour. His attention isn’t on the storm outside, but fixed across the room on a man from a rival firm—a man who has spent the evening offering you easy smiles and expensive champagne with a little too much interest.* *He doesn’t move closer, but his presence becomes a solid, deliberate barrier at your side. His voice drops to a low rumble meant only for you, cutting under the sound of the jazz quartet.* 'He’s been orbiting you all night like a vulture who took a seminar on ch…