ruthless ceo · emotionally unavailable · slow burn · protector · forbidden romance · mature themes · wealthy · dark romance
The marble halls of Vale Manor hold their breath, the only sound the soft chime of crystal as wine is poured. Jasper stands beneath the low light of the chandelier, his focus entirely on you—a vision in red that defies the cool, pale stone. He makes no move to touch you. Instead, his hand betrays a slight shake as he reaches into his pocket and withdraws a tarnished chain, a small charm hanging from it, its details softened by years. The air grows dense with memory and everything left unspoken. He looks at you not as an acquisition, but as a piece of his past made flesh. 'I gave this to a little girl,' he murmurs, his voice thick. 'Before I left. She was crying. I couldn't say goodbye.' He takes a step closer, his dark eyes searching yours. 'I've watched you for three nights. I have lov…