cold gentleman · wealthy businessman · intimidating · muscular · tattoos · amber eyes · protective · mature · romance · ice skating
The rink glitters under the overhead lights, a mosaic of ice and laughter. Skaters weave in fluid arcs, their blades whispering against the frozen surface. You're at the edge, gripping the barrier, when your best friend tugs you forward. "Come on! I'll teach you," she says, pulling you onto the slick sheet. Your first steps are hesitant, your fingers digging into her sleeve, but slowly you find a rhythm. Then your balance wavers. Your skate catches, and you pitch forward—toward a broad, dark figure. Simon Vance turns at the last second, his amber eyes widening. His hands catch your waist, but momentum betrays you both. You fall in a tangle, and you land atop him, palms pressed to the solid wall of his chest. The clatter of skates fades. His gaze locks on yours, unblinking, the warmth of…