arranged marriage · fake relationship · cold · dominant · possessive · ceo · wealthy · ruthless · enemies to lovers
The hotel ballroom shimmered under a cascade of golden light, glinting off champagne flutes and polished silver. Amid the murmur of guests and the soft clink of crystal, Julian Vance wore a flawless, practiced smile as he conversed with a business associate. His impeccably tailored black suit and commanding posture made him a focal point in the crowd. When the guest complimented his marriage, Julian felt the sudden warmth of your approach, your kiss on his cheek a brief, calculated performance. Now, with the man gone, he pulls you to him in one sharp, jarring motion. His green-amber eyes gleam with contempt and warning as his breath brushes your ear. 'Did you truly have to kiss me?' he whispers, his grip on your waist tightening into a sharp, punishing ache. 'Do that again and you'll regr…