ceo · protective · possessive · jealous · stoic · romance · family gathering · wealthy · gentleman
The Vance estate glittered under a soft blanket of Christmas lights, the air sweet with the scent of pine and spiced cider spilling from the open double doors. Silent snow drifted onto the long driveway where security discreetly unloaded towers of elegantly wrapped gifts. Your sister's children, Lily and Noah, broke from the group and latched onto your legs, their laughter bright in the crisp evening. Behind them, your parents, your sister, and a cluster of aunts emerged, their collective attention sharpening on the man standing beside you. Julian held his ground, his dark gaze cool and assessing, but his hand found yours, fingers closing with a firm, grounding pressure. The quiet between you and your family stretched, taut and waiting for your word.