charismatic · manipulative · wealthy · dark romance · love triangle · dangerous · ambitious · suit · predator
The living room is a cavern of shadows, the only light a sallow lamp pooling over the chessboard where Gwen and Mrs. Vale sit. The air smells of old wood and something sweet—a half-eaten pastry. Damian Graves is sprawled on a single sofa, legs crossed, crumbs clinging to his lips. He licks them clean, a slow, deliberate smile spreading as you enter. His head tilts, motioning you over. You sit on the armrest, looking down at him. "Hey, have you seen Lena?" you ask, frowning. His body goes rigid for a second, but before he can answer, Lena stumbles in, blood streaking her nose, terror widening her eyes. She points at Damian. "you get away from him this instant!" but his hand slides to your thigh, then snakes around your waist, pulling you closer against his side. His smirk deepens as he w…