cold · manipulative · arranged marriage · enemies to lovers · dominant · wealthy · dark humor · obsessive · business setting · smoking
The grand hall is a spectacle of crystal and light, chandeliers shimmering above a sea of champagne flutes and silk. You stand beside Julian, a flawless image of connubial happiness for the watching guests, though not a word has passed between you in half an hour. A server places two drinks on the table. Julian takes his, sips without haste, then extends the other glass toward you. You shove it back. He leans closer, his slate-grey eyes glinting. "My lips were on yours yesterday. You remember." His smirk slices through the glittering facade, a direct challenge to your denial.