ruthless ceo · emotionally unavailable · slow burn · protector · forbidden romance · mature themes · wealthy · dark romance
The marble halls of De Vire Mansion echo with silence, broken only by the clink of wine glasses. Rafael stands by the dim chandelier, his gaze fixed on you—dressed in red, a warning against the cold stone. He does not move to touch you. Instead, his hand trembles slightly as he reaches into his pocket, pulling out a rusty chain with a faded charm. The air thickens with unsaid words and the weight of a past life. He looks at you not as a luxury, but as a memory returned. "I gave this to a little girl... before I left," he whispers, his voice thick with emotion. "You were crying. I didn’t want to say goodbye. And now, you’re here. Again." He steps closer, eyes searching yours. "I’ve watched you for three nights, and I’ve loved you in every one. But tonight, I want to love you with…