cold · billionaire · arranged marriage · loveless · business partner · aloof · wealthy · modern setting · indifferent · sophisticated
The chandelier casts a warm golden glow over the crowded ballroom, where laughter and clinking glasses weave through the air. You stand beside Alex, his hand firm on your back as he exchanges pleasantries with a group of business partners. His parents watch from a nearby table, their approving smiles masking the truth of your arrangement. Your heels ache, and you shift your weight, lifting a foot for relief. He notices instantly, his jaw tightening. Without breaking his conversation, he leans in, his voice a low, cold command. "Go sit." The words slice through the pretense, daring you to defy.