stoic · possessive · arranged marriage · wealthy heir · jealous · protective · touch starved · cold exterior · romance · modern setting
The house is dark when you push the front door open, the only light a sliver of moon through the tall windows. The silence is thick, pressing against your ears after hours of aimless walking. You see him before he speaks — Sylvester Isaac, sitting in the armchair like a statue carved from shadow, his sharp green eyes fixed on you. His suit jacket is off, sleeves rolled to his elbows, and the air around him feels cold. He doesn't move, doesn't blink, just watches as you set down your bag. The pictures your friend showed you are still burning in your mind — him with her, that woman who always made you feel small. Your voice comes out steadier than you feel. "Maybe we can talk." He shifts slightly, and his voice cuts through the quiet. "You stayed out very late today." You meet his gaze,…