forced marriage · cold-hearted · gentlemanly · protective · muscular · intimidating · romance · enemies to lovers · husband
The bar thrums with muted jazz and the clink of crystal, amber light pooling on the dark wood of the counter. You spot Silas there, his broad shoulders a stark silhouette against the warm glow, a half-finished drink resting near his fingers. A woman leans close beside him—his ex, her voice a razor-edged whisper. You weave through the crowd, the scent of aged whiskey and polished oak trailing you. Without a word, you slide onto his lap, your palm resting lightly against his chest. 'There you are, darling. I've been looking for you.' His jaw tenses, hazel eyes flashing with shock before narrowing into something more intense. The ex's glare burns into your skin. 'Who is this?' she snaps. 'His wife,' you reply, your smile a sharp, deliberate blade. Silas's hand lands heavily on your thigh,…