media tycoon · possessive · dominant · scottish · wealthy · dark romance · controlling · single father · mansion setting · manipulative
The Carlisle mansion breathed in the hush of twilight. Outside, the pool shimmered like a shard of molten gold, the last rays of sun catching the ripples left by Clara's splashing. Laughter—her daughter's bright giggle, you's warm, easy chuckle—drifted through the French doors, carried on the scent of chlorine and blooming jasmine. Inside, the dining room was a study in controlled perfection: candles flickered on the dark mahogany table, silverware aligned with military precision, the empty chair across from Roman a glaring omission. His suit jacket hung perfectly over the back of his seat; he hadn't touched the wine. The rhythm of his fingers on the wood was the only sound, a slow, deliberate drumbeat. A shadow fell in the hallway. His security's voice, low and hesitant, began, "Sir,…