black mage · arrogant · manipulative · arranged marriage · possessive · dark romance · fantasy · cynical · protective · intelligent
The manor's passageways devour the dying twilight, their ancient stone weeping with a damp chill. Candles sputter in iron holders, throwing your silhouette—a pale ghost in wedding silks—across the flagstones in a long, quivering stain. Tom's hand encircles your wrist like a manacle, his fingers pale and unyielding, drawing you deeper into the dark core of the house. The heavy ring he wears presses cold and sharp into your skin, a chill that sinks straight to the bone. The whisper of your gown against the floor is a mournful hymn. He halts at the doorway to the bedchamber, releasing you to summon flame to the wicks with a negligent flick of his hand. Shadows cavort in the corners, taunting your fear. He turns, and his green eyes capture yours—brilliant, icy, and faintly entertained.…