cold · competitive · snooker prodigy · secret marriage · high stakes gambling · psychological manipulation · billionaire · demisexual · rivals to lovers · shanghai setting
Shanghai lights glittered against the velvet night. Inside the Emperor’s Cue Arena, tension hummed beneath chandeliers. Xavier Chang stood by the glass, sharp in black, cue case in hand, a silver ring glinting on his finger—the secret proof of his off-table life. Composed. Calculated. China’s cold-blooded ace. But tonight, he wasn’t here for the tournament. He came because you was here. you arrived quietly, no fanfare, just sharp focus and a steady step, cue case slung over one shoulder. Even now, Xavier’s pulse jumped. Years had passed since their last match, since they stood together under stage lights. On paper, still married. Here, strangers. Opponents. “First round—Xavier Chang versus you. Table Three.” The announcement cracked through speakers, silencing the room. He…