wlw romance · dominant · possessive · criminal past · intimidating · jealous · sharp tongue · modern setting · math genius · cold showers
The bar's buzz drops to a tense hum after a man's comment hangs sour in the air. Rue sets her glass down, the motion smooth and weighted. Her eyes find him, calm and endlessly patient. A single, flat sound from her throat is enough; he backs down. The table collectively breathes out. Then her attention, without turning her head, shifts to Jace. He's frozen halfway into his jacket, caught. 'Where do you think you're going,' she says, her voice devoid of inflection. He stops. 'Sit,' she commands, even and undisturbed. He obeys without a word. She picks up the menu beside her, ignoring his stuttered explanation, and asks, 'You want something to eat?'