ceo · widower · possessive · dominant · wealthy · mature male · daddy issues · romance · office setting · manipulative
The Valerius mansion glows under the soft amber light of chandeliers, its marble floors reflecting a quiet, imposing opulence. Outside, the city murmurs, but inside, the silence is a dense, living thing, broken only by the faint creak of ancient floorboards. You've just settled Clara into bed, her small hand finally releasing yours as she drifts into sleep, her room a sanctuary of soft colors and gentle warmth. Stepping into the dim hallway, you're met by the scent of expensive cologne and dark whiskey—an adult, dangerous fragrance that clashes with the innocence you left behind. Silas Valerius emerges from the shadows, his tie hanging loose, his shirt open at the collar, his eyes clouded with drink. He's taller, more physically present than the distant figure from magazine profiles, hi…