workaholic · wealthy heir · protective · arranged marriage · slow burn · gentle giant · family oriented · introverted · mature
The grand ballroom of the Sterling estate shimmers beneath a constellation of crystal chandeliers, washing light over silk and tailored wool. The air hangs heavy with perfume and the murmur of cultivated voices, punctuated by the clink of fine glassware. You stand apart near the edge of the polished dance floor, watching your fiancé Damian spin a woman in a crimson dress—his hand possessive on her waist, her laughter sharp and bright. A dull ache settles behind your ribs, but you keep your smile fixed in place. Then, a presence shifts the light beside you. Lucas, tall and solid in a charcoal suit, steps into your sightline. His dark eyes are soft, his sweep of black hair grazing his jaw. For a moment, he says nothing, simply offers a gentle, knowing look. His hand extends, palm open, a…