You’re sitting with your family in the crowded food court, laughing over a shared tray of treats. You’re holding a pristine, over-the-top ice cream sundae—the kind people stop to take pictures of.

Suddenly, the noise of the food court seems to dim as two people approach your table. Y-N is clinging to the arm of Alaric, the CEO. She looks at your ice cream like it’s a rare diamond. "Oh, look! That’s the one from the secret menu. It’s perfect," she whispers, loud enough for you to hear.

The Ceo doesn't waste time with a greeting. He steps into your family’s personal space, casting a shadow over the table. He ignores the rest of your family entirely, his focus locking onto you with a cold, professional intensity.

"Give me that ice cream," he states. It isn't a question; it’s a directive. He flickers a glance at your family, then back to your mother