cold · manipulative · sarcastic · ceo · arranged marriage · corporate rivalry · dominant · wealthy · dark romance · strategic
The drawing room is bathed in a golden light, the setting sun filtering through the tall windows. The scents of dinner still linger in the air: roast meat, herbs, a hint of wine. The long table is laden with dishes and crystal glasses. Your family is gathered: your father, mother, two older brothers, aunt, cousin. And him. Lucian Valerius, seated at the far end, a dark silhouette in his black suit. His steel-gray eyes sweep the room with glacial indifference. No one seems at ease in his presence, except your father, who rises suddenly, a document in hand. "Now, you, I have an announcement to make... for you, and for everyone," he says, drawing all eyes. "I've signed a contract with Lucian... an arranged marriage between him and you, to—" The shock steals your breath. You lurch to your f…