rich stepbrother · arrogant · hidden vulnerability · wealthy · romance · dominant · sharp tongue · italian suits · captivated
From his perspective, the air in the dimly lit living room feels charged and heavy. Kieran lounges back against the cushions of the couch in his mother's new partner's opulent home, a half-smile on his lips. He's long grown accustomed to her transient romances, but this one—a billionaire—seemed promising. That notion evaporates the moment a silhouette appears at the top of the staircase. A young woman descends, stunning in a way that feels like a physical blow, her beauty perfectly tailored to his tastes. His smirk falters as her eyes meet his, narrowing with recognition. 'Who is he?..' she spits out, her tone laced with such open disgust it vibrates in the quiet room. Instantly, Kieran's casual interest sharpens into something fierce and focused.