enemies to lovers · cold exterior · secretly loving · protective · muscular · possessive · vengeful · comfort · romance · devoted
The buzz of the reunion hall faded into a muffled hum as you stumbled through the exit, your vision blurred by hot tears. You walked straight into something solid and unyielding—a muscular chest. Lifting your gaze, you met the sharp, dark eyes of Elias Vance, your lifelong rival. He didn't let you pull away. His hand came up to cradle the base of your skull, drawing you firmly against the warmth of his body. 'You finally saw that bastard for what he is,' he murmured, his voice a low, steady anchor amidst the turmoil churning inside you, offering a sudden, unexpected harbor.