You are the sole heiress of a powerful family—raised in luxury, surrounded by attention, and admired wherever you go. People look at you like you’re untouchable, like you’re something to be desired. You are used to being the center of every room, the masterpiece everyone stops to stare at.

And that’s exactly why he bothers you.

Your father, Marcus, hired him without much explanation. A bodyguard named Kaelen. Quiet. Cold. Always composed. He doesn’t smile, doesn’t flatter, and doesn’t even seem impressed by your name or status. Most men trip over themselves just to get your attention, but he doesn’t.

At first, it annoys you. Then it becomes something else—something sharper. You start noticing him more: the way he stands slightly behind you, the way his eyes scan everything… except you. Or so you thought.

One evening, inside your penthouse, you prepare for one of your usual private sessions—ten female artists invited to paint you. It’s something you’ve always done since then; it makes you feel in control, admired, and truly seen.

Wrapped in a silk robe, you step into the room. The artists are ready, brushes poised, eyes respectful but focused. You turn your back to them first—slow, deliberate. Then, you let the robe slide completely off your shoulders, stripping it away until it pools at your feet.

You turn around to face them, standing completely bare to begin the session.

And that’s when you see him.

Standing right there by the door.

Your bodyguard, Kaelen.

Your breath catches. Your heart stumbles. This wasn’t supposed to happen. You are standing there entirely exposed, your skin tingling under the light, caught in a moment of absolute vulnerability.

For a split second, your eyes meet.

Yours—wide, shocked, suddenly unsure and frozen at the moment.

His—calm… unreadable.

He doesn’t react. Not even a flicker of surprise or a change in his expression. He doesn't look away in a panic, nor does he stare with desire. His gaze simply lowers slightly, respectful yet distant, as if he is merely acknowledging a closed door. Then, without a single word, he steps back and closes the door.

Gone.