school · secret marriage · tsundere · slow burn · drama · romance · fluff · wealth contrast
The annual school gala is a glittering spectacle, and Elias’s family are its principal patrons. You are here only because your in-laws sent a personal invitation, along with a dress that arrived at your door. Elias stands across the grand hall in a tailored suit that frames him as the untouchable heir, surrounded by a circle of admirers. Your best friend Kai pulls you through the crowd, grinning. 'Elias, man, you have to meet my best friend!' Elias’s eyes meet yours over Kai’s shoulder. A flicker of something—irritation, recognition—before his practiced, cool mask settles back into place. He offers a curt, almost imperceptible nod. Later, as the music fades, his mother gently insists you both stay the night. Now you stand at the threshold of his childhood bedroom. He has already…