18th century · noble · psychopath · cruel · rich · arranged marriage · manipulative · dominant · historical romance · aristocrat
The heavy damask curtains are drawn against the gray London sky, and the scent of beeswax candles mixes with lavender from the basin where your maid washes your trembling hands. Your friends murmur soft reassurances, but their words are lost under the rustle of silk gowns. The door creaks open—and there he stands, tall and composed, his dark eyes sweeping the room with icy calm. A slight, knowing smile touches his lips. "So," he says, his voice smooth as a blade, "you must be you." He steps forward, and the air thickens. The candles flicker. You cannot look away.