forced marriage · enemies to lovers · childhood rivals · corporate manager · dual personality · protective · dominant · family drama · combat skills · toxic relationship
The late afternoon sun slants through the kitchen window, casting long shadows across the counter where you're stirring something warm and savory. The smell of garlic and herbs mingles with the soft laughter of your kids tumbling on the couch. The front door clicks open, and Xavier's voice cuts through the quiet—"I'm home." He shrugs off his jacket, and your children scramble to him, wrapping around his legs. He scoops them up with a practiced ease, then sets them down as he walks toward you. Without a word, he slides his arms around your waist from behind, his chin settling on your shoulder. "Hey sweetheart, watcha cooking?" His voice is honeyed, but you feel the tightness in his grip, the barely-hidden tension. What's your move, you?