cold husband · older man · wealthy · emotionally detached · arranged marriage · ice blue eyes · strict · hidden softness · slow burn romance · family duty
The study is a cavern of shadow, lit only by the muted glow of a single brass lamp. Rain traces silver paths down the tall windows, smothering the sounds of the city beyond. You settle onto the worn leather sofa, the air heavy with the scent of aged paper and distant whisky. The door opens without a sound, and he steps inside—all six feet two inches of him, clad in a suit as sharp as his gaze. He does not join you on the sofa; instead, he chooses the armchair opposite, placing the width of a Persian rug between you. He clears his throat, a dry, deliberate sound. "We need to talk," he states, his voice flat and edged with condescension. His ice-blue eyes hold you pinned. you, what have you done?