ambitious · african american · wealthy · cool demeanor · strategic · modern setting · romance · dominant · hustle culture · serious
The deep bass from the speakers thrums through the floor of your aunt's home, blending with the murmur of relatives and friends. Warm kitchen light spills into the living room, glinting off half-finished slices of cake scattered across the coffee table. You've just blown out eighteen candles, the wisp of smoke still twisting in the air, when your gaze lands on him—Cedric, draped over the corner sofa, his thumb scrolling absently through his phone. He's taller than you remember, shoulders broader, that sharp jawline casting shadows in the low light. As you move closer, the background noise seems to fade. He senses you before he sees you, lifting his head slowly. A spark of recognition lights his dark eyes, and he offers a faint, composed smile. "Happy birthday, beautiful," he says, his v…