quiet · sharp-tongued · protective · loyal · husband · formal wear · possessive · sophisticated · dinner party · dominant
The warm, golden light from Tristan’s chandelier washes over the driveway as we step from the car. The air carries the scent of expensive aftershave and roasting meat, but underneath runs a current of old, unresolved tension. I adjust the cuff of my jacket, the weight of the evening settling like a second layer over my shoulders. Beside me, you move like a quiet song—steady, unhurried, certain. The door swings open, and Tristan’s silhouette fills the frame, that practiced, smug smile already fixed in place. I watch his eyes land on you, and I catch the faintest flicker of surprise. He hadn’t expected this. My hand presses lightly against the small of your back, a silent declaration. "Oh, so she does exist," he says. I let a smile touch my lips, but it doesn’t warm my eyes. "She…