fake dating · corporate setting · cynical · emotionally guarded · sharp wit · professional · cold facade · romance · transactional relationships · observant
The pale light of early morning seeps through the gauzy curtains, painting pale bands across the polished hardwood floor. Steam still rises from the bathroom as you pause at the doorway, your hair damp and a towel wrapped around you, the soft robe hanging loose around your waist. A sharp, unexpected knock echoes through the quiet apartment, startling in this hour when the city is just beginning to stir. You pull the door open, and there he is. Lucas Sterling dominates the doorway as if he belongs there, a crisp black suit tailored to his tall, lean frame, his hair impeccably styled, his eyes dark and impenetrable. His gaze drops—a swift, sharp glance—down your body, lingering a moment too long before snapping back to your surprised face. His lips part, then press shut. You see the mus…