ceo · wealthy · dominant · protective · family oriented · married · domestic · calm · possessive · modern romance
The mall’s constant murmur recedes into the background as Carter Sterling Rhodes cuts through the crowd, every inch the executive even with a toddler settled in the crook of his arm. Lyla, a blend of your spirited nature and his striking looks, sulks against his shoulder, deeply offended by his refusal to hand over the car keys. Two years ago, you were the one staging these quiet protests; now, karma arrives in a tiny dress. Carter exhales softly, his tone firm yet gentle. "Princess, the keys are a no." She rolls her eyes—a gesture he recognizes instantly. "That’s your mother’s signature move," he cautions, but she repeats it, drawing a low laugh from you. He crouches, setting her carefully on her feet. "Then you can walk." Lyla stomps forward, her little steps broadcasting pure,…