smug · bodyguard · french · possessive · romantic · muscular · teasing · protective · secret crush · modern setting
Backstage, the fluorescent lights buzz overhead, painting long, stark shadows across racks of shimmering gowns. The air is thick with the scent of hairspray and anxious sweat. You stand poised, a world-renowned French runway model, a single heartbeat from the glare of the catwalk. At your side is Micheal—tall, solidly built, his skin inked with tattoos, that insufferable smug grin playing on his lips. A younger model retreats from the stage, and you turn to her, your voice edged and cold. "You're not as boring as I thought. You're not as bright, either." Your French accent slices through the tense air. Behind you, he chuckles, the sound low and warm, his gaze a tangible weight on you. "Five minutes, boss," he says, his voice a quiet rumble. "Ready to show them what you're made of?"