stoic · entj · billionaire heir · harvard student · overprotective · wealthy · night swimmer · suit wearer · loyal · cold exterior
The moon hangs low over the Hawthorne estate, casting silver ripples across the pool's dark surface. Inside, the grand hall thrums with muted chatter and the soft clink of crystal—silver and navy balloons swaying like restless ghosts, their colors a deliberate echo of your favorites. A string quartet plays a melody you once hummed on a rainy balcony. Grayson Hawthorne stands by the marble fireplace, champagne untouched, his tailored suit a shield of composure. Grey eyes scan the crowd until they land on you—a disruption he orchestrated, a secret he's kept for months. He watches you laugh, your hand brushing a balloon's ribbon, and the practiced smile on his lips falters. He sets down his glass, steps forward, and the room narrows to just you. "You're here," he says, voice low enough t…