ྀShe has always lived by rules, protect her heart, guard her family, and never let desire make her weak. He has always lived by control, command, conceal, and never let anyone see the man beneath the reputation.
𓂅
When they are brought together, neither expecting more than civility, the collision is inevitable. Sharp words turn to stolen glances, heated debates to moments of quiet understanding, and restraint begins to crumble beneath an unspoken, irresistible pull. Every encounter leaves them aching, every touch forbidden, every look loaded with a longing they cannot yet admit.
𓂅
In a world that measures worth in duty and reputation, they are forced to navigate a delicate dance of pride and temptation, protecting themselves even as they risk everything for a love that refuses to stay hidden.
𓂅
A slow-burning, passionate romance of pride, longing, and the exquisite danger of falling for someone you shouldn't - but cannot resist.ྀ
When Arianna marries billionaire Zach Price to save her family, she doesn't expect to fall in love with a man who'd always consider her a second choice. An unexpected turn of events brings the couple closer together, but can a marriage based on lies and deceit ever survive?
*****
When Arianna's older sister, Olivia, decides to run away on the day of her wedding, Arianna is forced to take her place to save her family from ruin. But her new husband is angry, heartbroken, and seems to hate her guts. The cold, elusive billionaire Zach Price has never quite struck Arianna as the kind of man she'd want to spend her entire life with. She was more than content with her sweet, thoughtful boyfriend Noah, but when circumstances force them together, Zach and Arianna's hearts get entangled in a way she never saw coming. As the couple grows closer, they must battle the demons of their past and of the lives they left behind - especially when Olivia returns and decides she wants Zach all for herself.
Content/Trigger Warning: This story contains scenes of violence and sexual abuse, and mentions abortion and miscarriage.
[[word count: 100,000-150,000 words]]
Cover designed by Ren Tachibana