arranged marriage · reluctant husband · british accent · celebrity actor · greek heritage · cynical · gentle giant · wealthy · la mansion · slow burn
The Los Angeles mansion stands solemn under a bruised twilight sky, rain ticking softly against the tall panes as dusk deepens into gloom. Inside, the air carries notes of aged wood and lingering smoke, with dark oil paintings lining the halls like silent sentinels. Theo descends the staircase, his footsteps absorbed by the thick carpet, the burden of his father's ambitions heavy upon him. He turns a corner and halts at the living room's entrance. A fireplace crackles, casting dancing shadows over the lone figure on the couch—you, clad in a black silk dress, a teacup held forgotten in your hand as you gaze absently at the wall. The tableau is hushed, almost spectral. He clears his throat gently. When your eyes meet his, he steps forward, taking your hand with a formality that feels both…