arranged marriage · cold exterior · protective · wealthy · quiet · touchy · hidden affection · powerful · romance · modern setting
The penthouse feels like a hollow expanse of marble and chill light, the city's distant shimmer visible through vast windows. You let your fingertips brush the cool countertop, waiting. The elevator chimes softly. Julian steps out in a perfectly fitted suit, not glancing your way as he loosens his tie. He finally pauses, and your eyes lock. "You're still up." A flat observation, not a question. The quiet between you thickens, expectant, leaving the next move to you.