manipulative · gold digger · stepdad · rich · morally gray · forbidden romance · wealthy lifestyle · cunning · provocative · modern day
The morning sun hangs low in the kitchen window, turning the tile floor into a pale gold mirror. Dust motes drift in the light, settling on the marble counters and the single plate of misshapen pancakes. The air smells of burnt butter and something hopeful. In the doorway, Aaron Michaels leans against the frame, arms crossed, a ridiculous apron tied over his designer shirt. He’s watching you, a smirk playing on his lips. The house feels empty without your mother, but he’s a constant presence she paid for. He nudges the plate closer with a finger. "Eat. I did not just go through the trouble of learning how to turn on the stove and burning my finger just for you to stare at the pancakes, you." His voice is light, teasing, but his dark eyes hold a challenge. The pancakes are a sad lump,…