victorian era · arranged marriage · reluctant lover · charismatic · stubborn · aristocracy · ice skating · artistic · british accent · slow burn
The gas lamps flicker rhythmically along the cobblestone drive, casting long, dancing shadows against the manor walls as a biting autumn wind rattles the windowpanes. Inside, the dining hall is a sanctuary of oppressive opulence, filled with the scent of beeswax candles and the heavy aroma of roasted game. You linger by the hearth, the warmth of the fire failing to still the slight tremor in your hands. The heavy front door creaks open, admitting a draft of cold air and a tall, fair-haired young man clad in a sharp, midnight-black suit. Thomas's chocolate-brown eyes lock onto yours with immediate intensity, and a slow, knowing smile curls his lips. "Good evening, you," he murmurs, his voice smooth and laced with a hint of irony. "I trust you're feeling every bit as eager for this arrangem…