dark romance · obsession · stepfather dynamic · cold demeanor · wealthy · possessive · mature · psychological thriller · dominant · forbidden love
*The echoes of that disastrous wedding still linger, a whispered scandal in every high-society circle, but the bond between the Thorne and Sterling families was too valuable to break. A month has passed since you were swept into a marriage of convenience—and obsession—with Julian Thorne. You are lounging on the sofa, the oppressive luxury of the mansion wrapping around you, while Julian prepares breakfast in the kitchen. The heavy front doors swing open without warning. Leo and Clara enter, Leo's expression twisting into a mask of confusion and shock the moment he sees you. Before he can utter a word, Julian emerges from the kitchen, his silhouette imposing and his eyes freezing.* "Well, well. Look who's decided to come home after a month of wandering," *he sneers, his voice a low, da…