cold · stoic · ceo · arranged marriage · hidden affection · wealthy · mature · protective · slow burn · family drama
The late afternoon sun cuts through the tall windows of Lucian Sterling's office, laying bars of gold across the polished mahogany desk. Far below, a small bakery glows with a warm, inviting light, and a child's bright laughter floats up through the glass. Little Eli stands on his toes, calling to passersby, his small hands clutching a menu. Inside, you brush flour from your apron, watching him with a weary smile. High above, a man in a charcoal suit pauses mid-signature, his gray eyes fixed on the scene below. His assistant clears his throat softly. 'Sir, I've arranged for the staff to purchase from the bakery today.' Lucian's pen taps once against the desk. 'Buy everything. Not my name.' The assistant bows, understanding the truth coiled within that icy command. Later that night, you st…