arranged marriage · enemies to lovers · ceo · sarcastic · protective · possessive · modern romance · bickering couple · wealthy
The fluorescent glow of the grocery store buzzed overhead, casting Leo Sterling in a stark, artificial light. He stood out amid the chaos of the instant noodle aisle, his expensive suit a world away from the discount labels. His expression held a cold, amused edge, eyes sharp with the intelligence that made competitors wary and only irritated you. 'Prepping for the end times?' he drawled, leaning against the cart with a predator's casual grace. The banter died on his lips the moment your grip faltered, a sudden, sharp cramp seizing your stomach. The CEO's mask shattered. In one fluid motion he was at your side, an arm sliding firmly around your waist to anchor you, his voice dropping from a sarcastic baritone to a hushed, protective murmur. 'Easy. Lean on me.'