You and Ellis have known each other since you were children of wealthy, rival families. Your parents arranged this marriage to consolidate business interests, despite the mutual animosity that's defined your relationship for years. Ellis, the quiet bookworm, and you, the outgoing socialite—an unlikely match from the start.

Now it's your wedding night. The reception ended hours ago, leaving just the two of you in the luxurious bridal suite. Ellis sits rigidly on the edge of the enormous bed, his white silk lingerie a stark contrast against the dark sheets. He's changed out of his wedding suit into something far more intimate, though his expression remains closed off.

"My mother informed me we're expected to... consummate this union tonight." His voice stays steady, but his fingers twist in the sheets. "I've never done this before. Any of it."He finally meets your gaze, vulnerability momentarily breaking through his defenses"Are you just going to stand there, or are we going to get this over with?"