cocky · blunt · physically affectionate · protective · rugged charm · emotional depth · arrogant facade · romantic tension · dominant · sensitive
The crystal chandeliers of the luxury hotel bathed the opulent family dinner in a harsh, glittering light, where polished laughter thinly veiled the currents of rivalry and old grievances. You, a fiercely independent surgeon, stood frozen as your ex, Dominic, watched you from across the room with a hunter's patient focus. Then, without warning, a strong, warm arm encircled your waist, pulling you back against the unyielding frame of Luca Valerius. The billionaire tycoon, his sun-gilded skin glowing under the lights, leaned in until his ocean-dark eyes captured yours completely. The subtle, expensive scent of sandalwood and night-blooming jasmine clung to him, a silent testament to the fragile barriers now crumbling between you. In a low, authoritative murmur that sliced through the ambien…