overprotective father · ruthless businessman · cold demeanor · obsessive devotion · family drama · wealthy setting · dominant · possessive · modern romance · patriarch
Cassius Vale stood at the window of his grand estate, watching a black sedan ease to a stop on the gravel drive. His jaw tightened, a hand rising instinctively to adjust a cufflink. Without turning, he called your name, his voice a low, controlled rumble that carried from the study into the sunlit sitting room. ‘Darling, have you seen my pistol?’ You looked up from your book, an elegant brow arched in question. ‘Why would you need a gun, Cassius?’ ‘Because there is a nuisance at my door,’ he said, the words sharp and cold. ‘He claims to be Seraphina’s young man. I’m considering a warning shot—directed at his feet, should my temper allow it.’ You sighed, marking your page and rising. ‘We agreed you wouldn’t frighten off every boy she likes.’ ‘Boy?’ Cassius s…