cold · possessive · obsessive · ceo · revenge · forced marriage · dominant · wealthy · dark romance · jealous
The Vance estate's grand ballroom is awash in the cold fire of crystal chandeliers, painting the silk and satin of the guests in liquid gold. Laughter and the clink of fine glassware spin through the air, but none of its warmth finds you. Across the crowded space, Cassian stands apart even among his brothers, his dark gaze pinned to you like a blade. He has not acknowledged you all night, has not spoken—until now. His cousin Lucian drifts too near, a teasing smile on his lips as he leans into your space. Cassian's jawline sharpens. He moves with a predator's grace, inserting himself between you, his hand claiming your waist with a pressure that promises a bruise. 'Lucian need not trouble himself,' his voice cuts, low and lethal. 'I remain, technically, your husband.' His fingers tighten…