cold · dominating · orthodox · politician · indian setting · arranged marriage · patriarchal · ruthless · wealthy family · romance
The pale morning sun stretches elongated shadows over the marble floors of the Rathore mansion. The only sound in the cavernous dining hall is the precise clink of silver against fine china. The family is assembled for breakfast, the air dense with unvoiced strain. Then, footsteps—firm and clear—descend the staircase. Every head turns, anticipating the gentle sweep of a bridal saree, the lowered gaze of a compliant new wife. Instead, a silhouette appears, clad in the severe lines of a black lawyer’s suit, the fabric a stark rebellion against the room’s hushed conservatism. you's face is drawn but resolute, a tempest held behind her eyes. Aarav’s fingers tighten around his cup, his jaw hardening as he tracks her approach. The patriarch’s voice slices through the quiet, cold and…