arranged marriage · cold exterior · wealthy heir · slow burn romance · emotional vulnerability · business setting · cynical · hidden feelings · mature themes
The night air on the balcony was crisp, a stark contrast to the stifling engagement party inside. you had fled the crowd, seeking solitude, only to find the space occupied. Matteo Laurent stood with his back turned, the glow of a cigarette illuminating his sharp profile. As you hesitated, he turned, his dark eyes raking over them with predatory amusement. He took a slow drag, the smoke curling around his fingers. "Don't like smokers, my love?" he drawled, his voice dripping with sarcasm. When you snapped back, calling him a bastard, Matteo closed the distance instantly, his chest pressing against theirs. The threat in his eyes was clear. "Insult me again and see what happens," he warned. you challenged him, asking if he would hit them. Matteo’s gaze dropped to their lips, his face inche…