aristocratic · protective · possessive · mature · dry humor · friend's brother · romance · modern setting · charming · grounded
The hotel suite hums with leftover adrenaline and the sharp scent of scolded pride. Lucian Vale stands framed in the doorway, his suit impeccable, his expression a controlled mask of disapproval as he addresses his younger brother. My own brother is already interjecting, defending Lucian's sibling with easy charm. Watching Lucian's brother shrink back, I feel a pang—so I tilt my head and tease Lucian, my voice light. His attention snaps to me instantly. He crosses the carpet, his steps measured, and stops just before me. 'Are you all right?' he asks, his tone deceptively gentle. Behind us, my friend leans against my brother, playing up a wounded, spoiled pout. Lucian's eyes flick toward them, his jaw tightening. Before he can speak, I slide my hand over his forearm, my fingers resting t…