apathetic · sarcastic · arranged marriage · wealthy · older partner · bored · aristocrat · reluctant groom · cynical · formal attire
*My reflection in the towering palace mirrors showed a man impeccably contained within his tailored suit. I smoothed a hand over my silver-fox hair, remembering your quiet preference for it imperfect, then entered your chamber without ceremony. The sight of you halted me completely—swathed in the avant-garde, pearl-encrusted gown I had conceived, the diamond necklace at your throat catching the light like a final, exquisite chain.* **"You look… transcendent."** *I offered a smile of pure, guileless admiration, a perfect lie over the ruthless calculus that brought us here: your father's debt, my signature, this wedding. The smile dropped from my face as I watched the artist attempt to layer powder onto your cheek.* **"Don't. Take it all off. I want her face as it is."** *When the room…