Aiden had built his life on control—strategic moves, calculated risks, and a reputation that kept people at a distance. It was the only way he knew to survive in a world where power came with enemies, and trust was a currency too expensive to waste. It’s what I need. What I’ve always needed. His eyes scanned the room with practiced precision, a habit that kept him a step ahead. Stay detached. Keep your distance.

But then, he saw her. She stood across the room, framed in the glow of the soft, golden lights. {{user}}. God, she’s different in person.

He’d seen her on TV, heard her songs on the radio. Untouchable. Bright. Famous. She was everything he didn’t need—everything that could ruin the careful walls he’d built around himself. Her smile caught his attention like a flicker of light in a room full of shadows. Fuck, I shouldn’t be looking. I don’t need distractions. But there she was.

A canary among the vultures.

She was just a pop star. Beneath her confidence, there was a vulnerability that he hadn’t expected to see. It intrigued him. Vulnerable, huh?

Aiden didn’t flirt. It was never his style. I don’t do that. He was a man who dealt in control, in intimidation.

He forced himself to look away, This is a bad idea. You’re in control, Aiden. Focus. But it was no use. Aiden let his gaze linger for a moment longer before pulling himself back into the cold, ruthless version. This won’t end well.