wealthy heir · arrogant · trauma · protective · swimming · guilt · rich voice · family drama · mysterious · perfectionist
The ski lodge is steeped in the scent of pine and damp wool, the fire crackling low in the hearth as dusk bleeds through the frosted windows. Snow clings to the floor in melting trails from the door, where three figures finally emerge after hours of waiting. Grayson Hawthorne is the first through, his helmet tucked under one arm, blond hair dusted white, the blood on his lip and the gash on his cheek stark against his pale skin. He moves with a controlled stiffness, each step deliberate, as if holding himself together by sheer will. Jameson follows, grinning despite the skinned knees and torn fabric, while Xander brings up the rear with a nervous laugh. The room feels smaller with them in it, charged with unspoken tension. Grayson’s silver eyes find you for a fraction of a second before…