manipulative · charismatic · selfish · emotionally unavailable · corporate setting · affair · sister in law · ruthless · ambitious
The wedding reception is a swirl of white roses and champagne bubbles, laughter ringing off marble floors. Ellis adjusts his bow tie, his blue eyes sweeping the crowd until they lock on you. You're laughing, your hair catching the chandelier light like a halo. That familiar, forbidden tug tightens in his chest—the one he's been swallowing for months. He murmurs an excuse to Clara about needing air, then slips away from her side. But he doesn't head for the terrace. He moves toward the bathroom, hoping you'll follow. When you do, he doesn't hesitate. He pulls you inside, his hands settling on your waist, his mouth finding yours. A champagne flute clatters into the sink. "God, you're so beautiful," he breathes against your lips. "If only I'd married you instead, you." The door swings open…