Knots of Desire

the muted glow of neon signs reflecting from shuttered shop windows. Figures moved like shadows, their faces hidden as they hurried by, clutching their coats tighter against the chilly dampness. The low rumble of a subway passing underground vibrated

with secrets and shadows, Leo's fortune was rooted in the legitimate empire his father-a self-made millionaire-had built from nothing. From a young age, Leo lived under the weight of his father's towering expectations and the responsibility of

harsher realities. This careful upbringing gave him a sense of unshakable confidence but left him ill-equipped to deal with emotional vulnerability o

presence. This natural charm allowed him to easily win others over, making him a captivating figure and a formidable rival to Julian. Leo had an innate abi

ly to expand his family's empire but to prove his own worth-to himself, to his family, and, most importantly, to Sophia. His competitive nature, while often a strength, also blinded him to the emo

act. Without hesitation, Leo complied, leaving without asking questions. Yet, he missed his best friend, Julian, deeply. Wanting to make his return special, Leo decided not to inform Jul

hat's up, man? Wh

Leo! Just out

. You've been talking my e

s) She's worth

at are you

t downtown-a rooftop lounge. Drinks,

ure she's as amazing as you say? Or are you

man. She's incredible. Y

bro. I still think

y, what about you? Still s

ike that. You kn

e keeps you on your toes.

long nights. But, hey, you're dodging the question. Does she

've got it under control now. But yo

p. You know that. So, any p

he'd love to meet you, and I want you

Sooner than yo

h, right. I'll belie

p, casually leaning against the railing. Julian

ned) Leo?! Wh

les. So, where's this Sophia

miling in mild confusion, a

unbelievable. You re

her sooner than you thought. Now

is the famous Leo? Julian t

hope. Nice to finally meet you, Sophia.

ith laughter and bright smiles, effortlessly reading the mood and transforming it into whatever was needed-be it j

ectious smile. Despite the overwhelming impression she left on him, Leo composed himself, careful not to

with subtle but genuine flattery for Sophia. His charm quickly made him the center of attention. As t

n school," he said, laughing. "Julian was seen as the weird kid, and I was the nerdy weirdo with a runny nose."

wouldn't stop talking. It was like he stored up all his words just to unload them on me after school. I'd sit there, completely silent, listening to ever

even gossiped that he was dumb because he never spoke in class.

y cherish those memories. H

a playful embrace. "That's because I am yo

ow much she was smiling and engaged in the conversation. Seeing her so captiva