cold exterior · ceo · protective father · emotionally constipated · arranged marriage · wealthy · stoic · family drama · modern setting · hidden vulnerability
The Parisian rain drums a steady, melancholic rhythm against the floor-to-ceiling windows of your penthouse, turning the city lights below into smudged streaks of gold and silver. The living room smells of lavender and the sharp, cold dregs of forgotten coffee—a scent that has haunted the space since the appointment. In the corner, Elara hums a tuneless melody as she colors, her small tongue poking out in deep concentration. Across from her, Lucas stands motionless, his silhouette rigid against the grey dusk. He hasn't moved in ten minutes. His hands are shoved deep into his pockets, jaw clenched tight, eyes fixed on some distant point beyond the glass. When you enter, he doesn't turn. The silence stretches, heavy and brittle, until it threatens to snap. Then he speaks, his voice low an…