Love in the Shadows.

𝘾𝙝𝙖𝙥𝙩𝙚𝙧-𝟎𝟏

 Jasmine River stepped off the plane, her heart racing with a mix of excitement and nervousness. After years in south korea, the familiar sights and sounds of New York City enveloped her like a warm embrace. She took a deep breath and the chatter of busy travellers. Today marked a new chapter in her life, one she had longed for since leaving.

As she navigated through the bustling airport, her phone buzzed in her pocket. It was a message from her sister, Amara: sorry couldn't come and pick you up but Adrian will be waiting for you at arrivals. He'll take you to the house. Can't wait to see you!

Jasmine smiled, the anticipation of reuniting with Amara bubbling inside her. But another emotion flickered at the back of her mind—curiosity about her sister's husband. Amara had shared stories, but Jasmine had never met Adrian in person. She wondered what kind of man had captured her sister's heart.

Arriving at the designated area, Jasmine scanned the crowd. There, leaning against a pillar with an air of casual confidence, stood a tall figure. He was dressed sharply in a dark tailored suit, his arms crossed, exuding a cool, collected demeanor. His striking features were sharp, and his dark hair was tousled just enough to give him a slightly rebellious edge.

"Adrian" she murmured to herself, the name feeling both familiar and foreign. She gathered her luggage and approached him, her heart pounding with a mix of excitement and apprehension.

As she drew closer, his eyes met hers—deep, calculating, and a little guarded. He straightened up, his expression neutral but not unfriendly.

"Jasmine," he said, his voice low and smooth. It was clear he was sizing her up, assessing the newcomer who was now part of his life through marriage.

"Hi, Adrian It's nice to finally meet you," she replied, forcing a smile that felt a little shaky.

"Amara's mentioned you," he said, tilting his head slightly. There was something in his tone that suggested a layer of curiosity, but it was quickly masked by his composed exterior.

"Good things, I hope?" Jasmine quipped, trying to lighten the mood.

"Mostly," he said with a faint smirk that didn't quite reach his eyes. "Shall we?"

Without waiting for an answer, he gestured toward the exit. Jasmine felt a flutter of unease at his cold demeanor but pushed it aside. She followed him, her heels clicking on the polished floor.

As they stepped outside, the bright sunlight momentarily blinded her. She adjusted her sunglasses and took in the bustling street, vibrant and alive. Adrian walked ahead, his stride long and purposeful, and she hurried to keep up.

"So, what's been the highlight of your time in the south korea?" he asked, glancing sideways at her.

Jasmine considered his question, wanting to share her experiences while also sensing his disinterest. "I studied interior design, and I interned at a really great firm. I loved the fast-paced environment and the creative freedom," she said, gauging his reaction.

He nodded slightly but didn't respond, his expression still unreadable. They reached his sleek black car, and he opened the door for her, a gesture that surprised her.

"Thanks," she said as she slid into the seat, trying to shake off the chill that hung in the air between them.

As they drove through the bustling streets of New york city, Jasmine stole glances at him. Despite his cold exterior, there was an intensity about him that intrigued her. She couldn't quite place it, but it felt like there was more beneath the surface—a depth that perhaps Amara had fallen in love with.

As they approached Amara and Adrian home, Jasmine felt a mix of excitement and trepidation. She knew that first impressions could be deceiving, and she was determined to find out who Rowan truly was beneath that cool exterior.

The car rolled to a stop in front of a charming, modern house that exuded warmth and elegance. Jasmine's heart raced as she took in the sight. This is home, she thought, feeling a rush of nostalgia mixed with excitement. The vibrant garden, blooming with colorful flowers, reminded her of the summers spent playing outside with Amara.

adrian shifted in his seat, breaking her reverie. "We're here," he said, his voice neutral.

"Thanks for the ride," Jasmine replied, her smile genuine despite the nervousness bubbling inside her.

As they stepped out of the car, she caught a glimpse of Adrian's demeanor—a mix of calm confidence and a hint of protectiveness that intrigued her. They walked toward the front door, and Jasmine felt a flutter of anticipation.

Adrian knocked, and almost immediately, the door swung open. Amara stood there, radiant and brimming with joy. Her eyes lit up as they met Jasmine's, and without a word, she rushed forward, enveloping her sister in a tight embrace.

"Y/N! You're finally here!" Amara exclaimed, squeezing her tightly. Jasmine could feel the warmth radiating from her sister, a familiar comfort that made her heart swell.

"I missed you so much!" Jasmine replied, her voice muffled against Amara's shoulder. She could hardly believe how much she had longed for this moment.

Amara pulled back, looking at her sister with a mixture of delight and a hint of concern. "You look amazing! How was your flight?"

"Long but worth it. I can't believe I'm finally back!" Jasmine said, her excitement bubbling over.

Just then, Adrian cleared his throat, catching Amara's attention. "I should—" he started, but Amara waved him off.

"No, stay! Jasmine, let me introduce you properly," she said, her enthusiasm palpable. She turned to Rowan, her eyes sparkling. "Adrian, come here."

Amara reached for Adrian's hand, intertwining her fingers with his. There was a tenderness in the way they amara held Adrian's hand, a silent understanding that made Jasmine's heart flutter with warmth.

"Adrian, this is my sister, Jasmine River," Amara announced, pride shining in her eyes.

"Nice to meet you, Jasmine," Rowan said, his voice low and smooth. He extended his hand, and Jasmine felt the warmth in his grip.

But little did jasmine knew, this handshake marks the beginning of a fate that has other plans for the two of you. His cold exterior hides something deeper—something that may soon unravel, drawing you into a world of emotions you never expected.

Authors note: Thank you for reading the first chapter!