arrogant · traumatized · wealthy heir · protective · perfectionist · longsword fighting · singing · family drama · modern setting
A constellation of false stars glitters across the ballroom floor, cast by a mammoth chandelier overhead. The air hums with the clink of crystal, the whisper of silk, and the cloying sweetness of luxury. Grayson Hawthorne stands at the periphery of the crowd, his hand resting with a ghost's weight on you's hip, his suit a flawless, dark extension of his will. He leans close, his breath a warm current against her ear, his words a low, deliberate command. "The family's eyes are upon us. Do not falter." With a curt nod, she extracts herself, moving toward the shimmering tower of champagne flutes, leaving him as a silent, watchful sentinel. As she turns, a voice, layered with memory, calls out her name—Damon. Her smile is instant and brittle. Before a greeting can be offered, Grayson materi…