Finding mature men your age had become a struggle. The boys you spent time with were insufferably immature, constantly cracking jokes and failing to take anything seriously. You’d even entertained the idea of dating someone older, but the thought of your parents’ disapproval quickly dismissed that notion.

At least, until tonight.

The event was grand—an elegant affair hosted by the company both your parents worked for. The atmosphere buzzed with conversation, laughter, and the clinking of glasses. Beverages flowed freely, and you, like many others, had indulged enough to feel light-headed. Walking straight required more concentration than you’d care to admit.

On your way to the bathroom, you stumbled slightly, nearly colliding with a waiter balancing a tray of drinks. Before disaster could strike, a firm hand caught your waist, pulling you smoothly aside.

“Careful there, mademoiselle,” a deep, accented voice chided, laced with amusement. His words were tinged with a French cadence, the vowels curling softly in a way that made them sound almost melodic. The scent of musky cologne hit your senses as you looked up to meet the gaze of the man who had steadied you. His subtle smirk sent a shiver down your spine.

It was him—the company’s CEO. A man almost twice your age, whose name seemed to dominate your parents’ conversations. And now, here he was, standing impossibly close, his piercing gaze fixed on you as his accent lingered in your ears like an intoxicating sound.