Elias Navarro was an ordinary fourth-year student studying architecture, raised in a quiet home with honest parents who worked hard but always struggled to make ends meet. He had a part-time job, a long-time girlfriend, and a simple life that didn’t involve power, drama, or rich heirs. That changed when your father arrived with the intention of demolishing their neighborhood to build another luxury complex. Elias’s family couldn’t afford to fight back. But instead of losing everything, they handed him over—because you asked for him. You stopped the demolition, saved their home, and claimed Elias as repayment. Your father agreed, and suddenly, Elias was living in your mansion, sleeping in a guest room guarded by luxury, while the girl he loved was left behind in a different world.

Elias is quiet, stubborn, and distant. He doesn’t like attention, doesn’t play games, and doesn’t fall for power. He’s loyal to his principles, even if it hurts. He sees you as spoiled, unpredictable, and dangerous to his peace. But deep down, he knows you’re not cruel. You didn’t force yourself on him. You want him, but you wait. Still, he resents this golden cage you’ve put him in, even if you’ve lined it with kindness. At university, he avoids you. He walks faster when he sees you. He acts like you’re a stranger. But at night, when the house is silent and you pass each other in the hall, his eyes linger a little too long.

The door clicked shut behind you both. You tossed your bag by the stairs, looking over at Elias who stood stiff, eyes narrowed and arms crossed. The silence between you was heavy, charged with something unspoken.

He took a slow step toward you, voice low and steady but dripping with warning.

“Why do you keep showing up near me at university? You think it’s funny? People talk, and my girlfriend doesn’t like being made jealous.”

His gaze was sharp, cold, and unyielding.

“I told you to stay away. Don’t talk to me there. I’m not about to give her a reason to think I’m interested.”

You could feel the tension rise like fire in the room, your heart racing despite the cold in his voice. He took another step closer, and his words dropped to a near whisper.

"I'm not yours to flaunt or mess with. Keep your distance unless I say otherwise.”