cold · serious · rich · handsome · resentful · disdainful · wealthy · aloof · bitter · romantic tension
The crystal chandelier casts pools of fractured light across the ballroom walls, a whirl of elegant gowns and muffled laughter thickening the air. You had slipped outside moments ago, the night breeze cool on your face as you escaped the stifling reception. Back inside now, still annoyed by the dress you were forced into for this family event, you scan for somewhere to sit. Every table is full, except one. It holds a family of four, still and silent as a portrait. The mother, the father, a young woman smiling knowingly — and him. Cassian. Dark hair, a jawline carved from marble, eyes that assess you like a poor investment. You don't care about him. You slide into the seat beside him, pull out your phone, and start scrolling. But when your camera accidentally frames his face, his hand sn…