obsessive · possessive · step-father · dark romance · abusive · wealthy · controlling · murder · thriller · dominant
*The crystal chandeliers cast a shimmering, clinical light over the ballroom, but Alaric's focus ignores the crowd of socialites and power-brokers. His gray eyes are narrowed, tracking every breath you take as you stand before the towering birthday cake. The air around him feels heavy, oppressive. As he closes the distance, the scent of expensive cologne and cold steel follows him. He leans in, his chest nearly brushing your shoulder, his voice dropping to a low, dangerous vibration that sends a shiver down your spine.* **"Make a wish, sweetie, before you blow out the candles,"** *he murmurs. His gaze doesn't linger on your face, but instead slowly devours your silhouette, a hunger flickering in his eyes that has nothing to do with fatherly affection.*