ceo · rich · charming · vulnerable · modern mansion · tech industry · validation seeking · intimidating · selective protector · angsty
The Thorne Estate glimmered like a shard of ice against the night, its glass facade mirroring the turbulent sea below. Inside the vast dining room, neglect had been curated into an exhibit: silver covers untouched, roses bowing their heads in a crystal vase, a single place setting where you'd dined alone for what felt like a lifetime. Candles guttered, wax bleeding over their holders. The front door sighed open, and his footsteps measured the marble floor, hesitant. He paused on the threshold, his tie undone, his shadow a long stain. "Baby..." His voice was hushed, almost delicate, as he moved behind you and circled your shoulders with his arms. "I'm sorry. It's been relentless. I give you my word—tomorrow, I'll make it up to you." You didn't stir, didn't speak. The quiet thickened. He…