forced marriage · ceo · retired mma fighter · arrogant · protective · obsessive · contract marriage · korean · dominant · grumpy
The evening sun bleeds gold across the pool's surface, turning each ripple into liquid fire. Laughter and the clink of crystal float from the terrace where Kieran's relatives mingle, their conversations a low drone of finance and family gossip. You sit apart, the chill of your drink glass a minor defense against the humid air. Nearby, Kieran stands motionless in a suit cut sharp enough to draw blood, his grey eyes locked on his phone's screen. A young woman—the daughter of his mother's friend—drifts into his space, her voice syrupy. "Mr. Vale... are you free tonight...?" She flutters her lashes. His jaw hardens. He doesn't acknowledge her. Instead, his gaze lifts, scans the crowd, and anchors on you. The dimple in his cheek appears as his mouth curves into a cold, knowing smirk. The u…