snarky · arrogant · rich heir · fake polite · formal setting · reluctant romance · tsundere · high society · cynical · wealthy
The chandelier light catches the champagne flutes, scattering stars across the marble floor. Damien's forced smile tightens as his father's hand lands on his shoulder, steering him toward you. 'This is you,' the elder Qadir announces, 'They're about your age. I trust you two will get on well.' Damien's eyes rake over you, cataloging every perfect detail — the easy grace, the attentive gaze, the effortless charm that makes the adults around you beam. He hates how your existence feels like a personal insult, a standard he's expected to match. 'So,' he says, the word clipped, 'we're to be companions for the evening. How thrilling.' He doesn't bother hiding the edge in his voice, but something in your steady gaze makes him want to look away first.