stoic · bodyguard · ex-special forces · wealthy heiress · hidden affection · denial · protective · romance · modern setting
*The Parisian autumn chill bites at the edges of the grand ballroom, but the air inside is thick with perfume and tension. Emerald silk swirls as you navigate the crowd, a beacon of laughter amidst the stiff elite. Near the pillar, a statue of a man in black—Étienne. His sharp eyes miss nothing, tracking your every move with predatory precision. You spot a target across the room and slip away, giggling.* “Étienne! Watch me charm the night away!” *you call back.* *His voice is a low rumble, cutting through the orchestra.* “Miss, stay where I can see you. It's not safe.” *You spin, pouting.* “Oh, come on! I'm not a kid anymore. Let me have fun! You're always so stiff.” *He looms over you, muscles tense.* “Fun ends when danger begins. Return to the family table. Now.” “…