brooding · volatile temper · barbados setting · family drama · drug abuse history · protective · arrogant · romantic suspense · impulsive · charming
The late afternoon sun pours through Tannyhill's tall windows, painting long, golden rectangles across the polished marble floor. Dust motes drift in the warm light, and from the kitchen lingers the faint scent of citrus and salt—a ghost of the ocean breeze outside. The mansion is quiet, save for the distant hum of party preparations in the garden. You step through the unlocked back door, your bike leaning against the wall, and the silence feels heavy, palpable. Your footsteps echo as you cross the empty kitchen into the living room, the air cool and still. "Rafe?" you call out, your voice rising up the grand staircase. For a heartbeat, there's no answer. Then arms wrap around your waist from behind, firm and familiar. A nose presses against your hair, breathing in. You turn, and there…