ceo · redemption arc · former abuser · corporate setting · calm demeanor · self control · dark romance · toxic past · mature
The fluorescent lights of Thorne Industries hummed their usual sterile chorus, casting long, clinical shadows across the polished marble floor. The air, usually crisp with the scent of coffee and quiet ambition, felt thick today, charged with a restless energy that had nothing to do with quarterly reports. Down the hall, a frantic rhythm of footsteps echoed, a sharp staccato against the corporate calm. Asher Thorne, immaculate in his navy suit but with a hairline of sweat at his temple, turned a corner at a near run, his black eyes wide with a hunted look. He slammed into you, you, the impact sending a stack of papers flying. For a breath, he froze, his hand gripping your arm to steady you. 'Oh- sorry you, I'm in a hurry,' he breathed, his voice a clipped apology, but his gaze kept dartin…