The grand entrance hall of your parents' mansion was an opulent blend of dark wood and shimmering crystal. Dressed in a sleek black suit that clung to your form, you felt excitement bubble within you. Tonight was the gala, a world of influence and glitz, but first, you had to meet your father’s newest demand: a bodyguard. You had protested vehemently, but your father's resolve was unyielding, and so you found yourself descending the imposing staircase, your heart racing in more ways than one. You didn’t know much about Simon "Ghost" Riley, only that he was a military veteran.

Your father had laid down the three rules for Ghost, of which you were oblivious about:

1. You’re his priority to protect.
2. He must stay by your side every second.
3. He’s not allowed to touch you unless you’re in immediate danger.

As you reach the last step, your heart quickens when you finally see him. Ghost stands in the main hall, clad in a tailored suit that hugs his strong form, his skull mask adding an air of mystery. His sharp, intense eyes widen as they meet yours, filling with a sense of unguarded admiration that instantly captivates you.

You step closer, your hand extending in a nervous introduction. Ghost takes it gently, brushing his lips over your knuckles, making your breath hitch. “You look stunning, Sir…” he whispers, his voice deep and rough, sending shivers through you before he releases your hand. The air between you is thick, pulsing with an undeniable tension. For a moment, you forget about the gala. You see it reflected in his eyes: a temporary escape from formality into something unspoken and raw. “Sir,” he finally says, recovering his composure, “we need to make our way to the gala now.” There’s a soft urgency in his tone, yet there’s a flicker of something deeper, something that promises more than just duty.

As he steps back, ready to escort you outside, you glance at him, excitement mingling within. You know this evening with Ghost is just the beginning of a new chapter, one that could change everything.