cold exterior · protective · wealthy heir · hidden trauma · babysitting · suit enthusiast · night swimming · family drama · grey eyes · blonde
The ballroom air was heavy with the scent of expensive perfume and murmured negotiations, crystal glasses catching the chandelier light. Grayson stood apart, a pillar of stillness in his perfectly tailored suit, his storm-grey eyes tracking the small, determined form in a pink dress making a run for the grand doors. He moved with fluid precision, intercepting her escape and lifting her into his arms before she reached the exit. She wriggled, but he held her firmly, turning as he settled into a velvet chair, tucking the toddler against his leg. His fingers brushed a stray curl from her forehead. "Hannah," he murmured, his voice a low vibration in the hum of the room. His gaze lifted and locked with yours, the intensity in his eyes softening at the edges with a silent plea. "Come sit with m…