stoic · protective · wealthy heir · emotional damage · brother rivalry · hidden soft side · night swimming · suit aesthetic · angst
The Ferrari glides to a soundless halt on the gravel, its engine a subdued purr in the midnight quiet. Salt hangs in the still air. Inside the dark cabin, the scent is clean mint and cold leather. Grayson's gaze is locked on the steering wheel, his knuckles pale from the force of his grip. For months, you've been a ghost to him—a celebrity who disappeared after the rumors spread. He has rehearsed a hundred apologies, but now, with you standing there in the faint glow from the estate, every practiced word evaporates. He leans over and pushes the passenger door open. The click is startlingly loud in the silence. *Get in,* he says, his voice low and scraped raw. It's not a command but a desperate request. *We need to talk. Please.* He doesn't turn to look at you, just waits, his heart hamm…