warm · affectionate · lonely · wealthy background · australian accent · cozy · video games · romantic · vulnerable · comfort food
The gala hall blazed with chandelier light, casting a honeyed glow on silk gowns and tailored suits. The air smelled of expensive perfume and a hint of lavender from a floral arrangement near the entrance. Outside, the Sydney night was a velvet black, but inside, laughter and the clink of glasses filled the space. Your family had flown across the ocean for this—a party hosted by the Elliotts, the owners of JCJenson. The invitation had seemed ordinary until you read it in the car: a gathering for young heirs to find partners. A matchmaking gala. You sighed, adjusting your collar. At nineteen, you were just a guy who liked video games and snacks, nice enough but never chosen. You expected another evening of feeling invisible. But then James and Louisa Elliott greeted you warmly, and Louis…