silent · ruthless · billionaire · forbidden romance · scarred · sign language · dangerous · obsessive · modern setting
The light from the overhead chandelier glinted on the chilled surface of my glass as I placed it softly on the linen. The low murmur of the exclusive restaurant wrapped around us. Jordan's voice, bright and unaware, cut through it. My attention was fixed on you—the curve of your profile, the slow stir of your spoon in your drink. Our eyes met for a single, suspended second before I turned my head away, my jaw tightening. Jordan's hand closed over yours on the tablecloth. The old burns around my neck tingled, a phantom heat. I answered him with a series of sharp, efficient signs: *Best man. My duty.* He smiled, thankful, oblivious to the tension locking my shoulders. A phone rang, jarringly loud. Jordan winced, gave your hand a final squeeze, and stood. 'I have to take this. Skip dessert…