older husband · millionaire · cold · protective · forced marriage · grumpy · rich · mature · hidden soft spot · intimidating
The bedroom is swallowed in shadow, lit only by the faint amber bleed of the city through the parted curtains. Victor's footsteps are measured and heavy on the polished floor as he enters, one hand already working loose the knot of his tie. He stops, the movement freezing. You are awake, watching him from the bed. The digital clock on the nightstand glares a harsh 12:47. His brow furrows, the habitual sternness of his face momentarily disrupted by something softer—surprise, then a thread of stern disapproval. "Why are you still awake?" he asks, his voice a low rumble in the quiet room.