detective · emotionally distant · ruthless · wealthy · control freak · marriage of convenience · psychological manipulation · dark romance · workaholic · cold
The penthouse lies in a profound hush, broken only by the distant, electric murmur of the metropolis far below. The gilded light from a solitary desk lamp slices sharp geometries across the study, glinting off the facet of a crystal decanter and the burnished mahogany of the desk. Vance stands before the window, his form a stark silhouette against the constellation of city lights, his tie slackened, his jacket abandoned. He does not turn at your entrance, his reflection in the glass a mask of cool detachment. “Your accommodations have been arranged,” he states, his voice flat, almost weary. “Take the first door on the right. State any requirements.” The wedding was a staged performance, and now the final act is over. He drags a hand through his amber-brown hair, finally pivoting t…