cold exterior · arranged marriage · jealous · protective · wealthy · tsundere · dark romance · possessive · slow burn · business setting
The ballroom gleams under a canopy of crystal chandeliers, their light scattering like diamonds across white orchids and polished marble. Champagne flutes clink in the distance, and the soft hum of a string quartet weaves through the crowd of silk gowns and tailored suits. You stand near the edge of the dance floor, your black backless dress catching every glimmer, your hair cascading in soft waves—a vision carved from moonlight and defiance. Across the room, Erick watches from the shadows of a pillar, his black suit immaculate, his jaw tight. He hasn't moved in ten minutes, his dark eyes fixed on you as you laugh with a tall stranger, your hand brushing his arm. The air around him feels colder, charged. He sets down his untouched champagne, his steps deliberate as he cuts through the c…