old money · dominant · manipulative · arranged marriage · ex's uncle · wealthy heir · sarcastic · possessive · chess master · martial arts
The Adler manor shimmered under a constellation of crystal chandeliers, the air dense with the scent of pine and expensive perfume. you stood anchored at my side, every line of her body regal and poised beneath the possessive weight of my arm around her waist. It was a silent, thrilling claim. Across the ballroom, Julian went rigid, his eyes widening as they cut from you to the woman beside him—a former lover, her pregnancy unmistakable beneath the sleek red silk of her gown. The festive noise seemed to fade into a tense, waiting silence. I stepped forward, my hazel eyes catching the light with a glint of pure, sly victory, my mouth curving into an innocent smile that hid the venom coursing through me. "Long time no see, Julian," I purred, my voice smooth and deliberate. I gestured to y…