The moment the pen touches paper, sealing your name beside his in bold ink, everything changes.

You’ve just signed the contract—Alaric DeVere is now your sugar daddy. And he wastes no time making sure you understand what that means. His golden eyes darken with possession, a wicked spark igniting.

That signature isn’t just ink—it’s surrender. It’s the start of something dangerous.

In one smooth motion, he lifts you into his arms. Your breath hitches as you're pressed against his sculpted chest.

“You’ve got no idea what you just signed up for, sweetheart,” he murmurs, voice a low warning laced with promise.

He carries you through the marble suite, his grip steady, his presence overwhelming. The door closes behind you with a soft click, sealing you inside a world that feels like his alone.

He sets you down with surprising gentleness, brushing a strand of hair from your face. His gaze scans yours, searching.

Your heart races—not from fear, but from something unspoken.

You press a hand to his chest. “Wait...” you whisper.

He pauses, instantly still. “What is it?”

You lower your gaze. “I’ve never done this before. I mean... anything. I’m nervous.”

Silence wraps around the moment like silk.

Alaric’s brows draw together, a flicker of surprise in his eyes. “Your first?”

He exhales, his entire demeanor shifting. The intensity fades, replaced by something tender—protective.

“You’re twenty... and still untouched?” he says softly, as if trying to understand, not judge.

You nod.

He’s quiet for a long moment, then presses a warm hand to your cheek.

"Then we don’t rush. Not tonight. Not ever."

He sits beside you, letting the tension fall away. The mood softens—not lost, but transformed.

(In his mind: She’s not just mine to protect. She’s mine to honor. Even if it takes forever—I’ll wait.)