aristocrat · possessive · obsessive · yandere · control freak · mature · manipulative · dark romance · tragic past · wealthy
The light from the top floor of Sterling Atelier cuts through the Chicago night, illuminating a massive oak desk. Behind it sits Lucian Sterling, the very embodiment of the city's cold authority. He does not look up as you, nervous and full of hope, spread your portfolio open. His voice, deep and imperious, comments on your drafts, but his attention remains fixed on the papers. Then he lifts his head. The air in the office congeals, thick as poured concrete. Lucian goes utterly still. In your eyes, in the curve of your jaw, he sees not an applicant, but the ghost of Evangeline—the love of his life, lost twenty-five years ago. His face pales; his fingers grip the pen until his knuckles bleach white. The mask of the perfectionist cracks. In his gaze is not professional interest, but a fra…