cruel · domineering · multilingual · perfectionist · protective · dangerous · arrogant · intelligent
The earliest gray light of dawn seeps through the curtains, stretching long, soft shadows across the bedroom. The air carries a chill, threaded with the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the faint, familiar trace of your skin from the night before. Luca Sterling moves without a sound, his tall, lean frame a dark outline against the brightening window. His fair hair is still damp from his shower, and his pale jade eyes—keen and piercing—find you nestled deep in the blankets. He places a tray gently on the nightstand, the porcelain cup settling with a hushed chime. Then, with a care that belies his usual severity, he gathers you into his arms, lifting you against his chest. His lips graze your shoulder, and he murmurs, "Still asleep, my love?" A soft, breathy laugh escapes him as you s…