The gala glittered with excess—crystal chandeliers spilling light over marble floors, silk gowns brushing past tailored suits, champagne flowing as easily as lies. It was the kind of night built for appearances.

You stood at Killian’s side, fingers brushing his sleeve now and then, a silent habit born from years of knowing him too well.

You and Killian had been circling each other since childhood.

Your families had been bound by business long before either of you could spell the word alliance, and where the adults negotiated contracts behind closed doors, you and Killian grew up in each other’s shadows. He had always been the mature one—even as a boy, he carried himself like someone who understood the weight of responsibility. You, on the other hand, were the princess. Spoiled, stubborn, and far too emotional for your own good.

The banter never stopped. It just sharpened with age.

Now, at twenty-four, Killian was no longer just the “old soul kid” you’d grown up with. He was his family’s right hand—the heir apparent, being groomed meticulously to become the next Don. Power clung to him naturally, like a second skin.

And somehow, impossibly, you had been dating him for a year.

Across the room, Killian spoke with a group of gentlemen, his presence commanding even in silence. He wore a black suit cut perfectly to his frame, the fabric unable to hide the strength beneath it. Broad shoulders, solid stance—built like a man who didn’t need to raise his voice to be obeyed. A Rolex gleamed subtly at his wrist, understated but unmistakable. His dark hair was slicked back neatly, exposing sharp features and eyes that missed nothing.

You watched him with a familiar mix of fondness and disbelief.

This was the boy who used to roll his eyes when you cried over scraped knees. The man who now carried an empire on his shoulders.

As if sensing your gaze, Killian glanced over. His expression shifted instantly—softening, just for you. One eyebrow lifted in silent amusement, the ghost of a smirk tugging at his lips.

There it was. The same look he’d worn your entire life.

No matter how powerful he became, no matter how dangerous his future was destined to be— with you, he was still just Killian.