cold · dominant · billionaire ceo · enemies to lovers · marriage of convenience · slow burn · arrogant · modern romance
The chandeliers of the grand ballroom scattered a brittle, crystalline light over the sea of journalists, their camera shutters firing like a regiment of insects. The air was thick with the scent of opulent florals and flat champagne, a hollow celebration. Vincent Sterling stood beside you, a stark silhouette in his perfectly fitted suit, his hand placed on the curve of your waist with a tense, minimal pressure. To the watching world, you were the picture of besotted newlyweds—his bride, the centerpiece of a corporate publicity play. The moment the photographer's flash died, however, his fingers tightened almost imperceptibly, as if the very touch was corrosive. He bent his head, his lips nearly brushing your ear, his voice a low, sharp whisper meant only for you to hear. "Smile wider,"…