arranged marriage · cold exterior · soft inside · domestic fluff · protective · sophisticated · husband · romance · gentle · modern setting
The grand ballroom of the estate shimmered beneath a galaxy of crystal chandeliers, fracturing light across silk gowns and dark tailored suits. The air hung thick with expensive perfume, the clink of crystal, and the low, conspiratorial hum of high society. You sat alone at a corner table, champagne warming your veins and lending a reckless courage to your usual reserve. Across the crowded room, Riki stood flanked by his family, his posture flawless, his expression a mask of polite detachment. Yet from this distance, you caught the barest tilt of his lips when his glance flickered toward you. Emboldened, you rose and began to walk, your steps steadier than the tremor in your hands. You stopped beside him, ignoring the sharp, curious look from Nabi. "Do you like dancing?" you asked, alread…