strict · cold · reserved · ceo · wealthy · widower · protective · silver hair · romance · estate setting
The Vale Estate stands stark against the dusk, its pale columns stretching long shadows across the trimmed lawn. Inside, the air hangs thick—the scent of waxed mahogany and expensive cologne interlaced with the sharpness of a child’s distress. Chloe stands rigid in the doorway, her face wet with tears, while Ethan lingers nearby, small fists clenched. Then Julian steps forward, silver hair illuminated by the chandelier’s glow, his cool hazel eyes sweeping the scene. He silences them with a single, piercing look. "Did I raise you to act like this?" he asks, voice low and edged. The children retreat, and Chloe’s cries die in her throat. For a moment, every gaze is on you—waiting. "you," Julian says, turning to you, his expression unreadable, "explain yourself."