BlaedLilac

Seraphina De Luca, an independent and optimistic woman with a painful past, has learned to navigate life on her own terms. Orphaned at a young age, she hides her wounds behind a quirky smile and a love for the simple things, like chai lattes and quiet moments on the train. But everything changes when she crosses paths with Cassian Vale—a man whose icy demeanor and cold eyes send a shockwave through her world.

Cassian, the heir to the Vale empire, is a man bound by duty, control, and the unyielding expectations of his father, Victor Vale. Raised to take over the family business, Cassian’s world is one of power and restraint, emotions locked away behind a wall he’s never been able to break through. Until Seraphina. Their chance encounters ignite something he’s never allowed himself to feel—a dangerous attraction that threatens the very control he’s fought so hard to maintain.

As their lives become increasingly entangled, Cassian and Seraphina are forced to confront not only their growing desire for each other but the painful truths they’ve both buried deep inside. Seraphina’s guarded heart is challenged by the pull of a man she knows she shouldn’t want, while Cassian’s dark past and the weight of his family’s expectations keep him from fully surrendering to his feelings.

Beneath the Ice is a story of forbidden attraction, unspoken fears, and the power of surrender. As their connection deepens, both must decide whether to break free from their pasts or let their unrelenting connection consume them. In a world where power, love, and family collide, Cassian and Seraphina will discover that the greatest strength lies not in control—but in vulnerability.

Frozen Desire

Cassian stood in the sterile hospital hallway, his hands clenched into fists at his sides. The dim overhead lights flickered faintly, casting cold shadows on the walls. Through the window of Seraphina's hospital room, he watched her chest rise and fall in slow, steady breaths, the rhythmic beeping of the heart monitor the only proof that she was still here. Still fighting.

But he wasn't going to take any more chances.

His father's reach extended far beyond what anyone could see, and Cassian knew Victor wouldn't hesitate to strike again. He had already done the unthinkable. If Cassian left Seraphina here, unprotected, it was only a matter of time before something worse happened.

Steeling himself, he turned sharply on his heel and strode toward the office of the hospital director. The older man, Dr. Reinhardt, looked up in surprise as Cassian entered, his expression guarded.

"Mr. Vale," the doctor greeted, though there was no warmth in his tone. "What can I do for you?"

Cassian didn't waste time with pleasantries. "Seraphina De Luca is no longer safe here."

Dr. Reinhardt's brows furrowed. "She is under strict observation. Moving her in her condition—"

"She will receive the best care. But she cannot stay here." Cassian's voice was cold, final. He took a step forward, fixing the man with a sharp, unyielding stare. "No one can know she has been moved. No records. No paperwork. As far as anyone is concerned, she's still in this hospital."

Dr. Reinhardt hesitated, clearly weighing his options. "This is highly irregular—"

Cassian reached into his coat and pulled out a checkbook, tearing a page from it with a smooth flick of his wrist. He placed the blank check on the desk and slid it forward. "Consider this a donation to the hospital. If that's not enough, name your price."

The doctor's eyes flickered to the paper before shifting back to Cassian's. A heavy silence stretched between them.

Finally, Dr. Reinhardt exhaled through his nose. "I'll arrange it. But she'll need proper medical staff—"

"They're already on standby," Cassian said smoothly, already having anticipated the concern. "Only the best. And I'll personally ensure her safety."

The doctor gave a small, reluctant nod. "I hope you know what you're doing."

Cassian smirked. I always do.

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The estate Cassian had secured was nothing short of a sanctuary. Nestled deep in a secluded area outside the city, the house overlooked a vast lake, its still waters reflecting the moon and stars above. Towering trees surrounded the property, acting as a natural barrier against the outside world.

He had spared no detail in making it feel like home—not just for him, but for her.

The interior was a careful blend of warmth and cool precision. Dark greys, deep blues, and muted greens contrasted with soft earthy tones, seamlessly merging her homey warmth with his calculated style. French-style doors led from their bedroom onto a sprawling porch, adorned with fairy lights that cast a gentle glow at night—an intentional touch, reminiscent of the ones she had in her flatlet.

Every few days, he made sure fresh flowers were placed by her bedside, their vibrant petals a stark contrast to the pale fragility of her resting form. She deserved to wake up to beauty, not the cold sterility of a hospital room.

And the scent—chai, her favorite. He ensured candles infused with the calming aroma burned throughout the house, their warm fragrance lingering in the air like a constant embrace.

The perimeter was secured, his most trusted guards stationed at strategic points. But he made certain they kept their distance. The last thing he wanted was for Seraphina to wake up and feel trapped.

This place was meant to protect her.

Chapter Nineteen: A Sanctuary in the Shadows