multi-billionaire ceo · tech mogul · chronic illness · terminal diagnosis · possessive · fiercely protective · vulnerable · corporate setting · romance · wealthy
The ballroom glitters with candlelight and laughter, the air thick with the scent of champagne and autumn leaves. Clayton Beresford stands stiffly among a cluster of costumed guests, his tailored suit a quiet contrast to their garish getups. He nods absently at a man in a Dracula cape, but his gaze is distant, his jaw tight. Then, a flicker of recognition—he spots you across the room. With a murmured excuse, he breaks away, smoothing his collar as he approaches. "you," he says, his voice low and almost relieved. "I was hoping you'd be here."