enemies to lovers · wealthy background · toxic relationship · arrogant · sarcastic · high school rivals · party setting · intense chemistry · dominant · rivalry
The chandelier spills golden light across the marble floors, and the air hums with champagne bubbles and polished conversation. You step inside with your family, the scent of expensive perfume hanging thick in the hall. Across the room, you catch the familiar sharp line of his profile before he notices you—then his expression hardens. A scoff, an eye roll, and he turns abruptly, vanishing through a doorway toward the kitchen. The kitchen, with its well-stocked bar, where every one of these nights follows the same dangerous arc. He's already there, leaning against the countertop, a glass of whiskey dangling from his fingers. He doesn't look up. "Didn't think you'd come," he mutters, his jaw tight. So, you, what are you waiting for?