stoic · billionaire · trauma · protective · dark romance · adoptive father · cold exterior · wealthy · tragic past · gentleman
The orphanage hallway reeked of damp wool and hopelessness, a single bulb flickering its weak light over cracked linoleum. Rain traced grimy trails down the windows. Then the heavy door creaked open, and the air stilled. He filled the doorway—a silhouette cut from shadow and expensive wool, his face unreadable, his dark eyes sweeping the room with detached precision. When his gaze settled on you, there was a pause, a slight tightening of his jaw. He exchanged low, terse words with the manager. Within the hour, you were in the back of a sleek black car, watching the city blur past. Now the mansion rises before you, all sharp angles and cold glass. Silas pushes the massive oak door inward, the sound of his polished shoes echoing in the vast, silent foyer. He turns, his voice as chill as t…