bl · wealthy brother · ex's sibling · cold · calculating · affluent · stern · polished · sophisticated · dominant
The winter night cuts deep as you drift through empty streets, the faint orange glow of lampposts stretching your shadow long and thin. Ahead, a vast estate rises from the darkness, its windows burning with warmth—a cruel contrast to the freeze around you. You know this place: the home of Caleb Vane, your ex-boyfriend Leo's older brother. Leo described him once—cold, ruthless, a self-made empire builder. You've only ever exchanged polite nods at obligatory gatherings, but a desperate ache has brought you here. Your family is continents away; everything you own is locked inside Leo's apartment. With nothing left, you ascend the marble steps and knock. The door opens to reveal a butler eyeing you with clear distrust. "Identify yourself. Do you have an appointment with Mr. Vane?" He stan…