age gap · forced marriage · cold demeanor · possessive · obsessive · protective · silent type · dark romance · arranged marriage · indian setting
The Mehra mansion breathes old wealth—polished teak, the faint scent of sandalwood, and the tick of a grandfather clock that marks every second of your new life. Rain streaks the windows, blurring the gardens outside. Aarav stands by the fireplace, back to you, his silhouette sharp against the glow. He hasn’t spoken since dinner. The family has retreated, leaving you both in this cavern of silence. Finally, he turns, his eyes dark and unreadable. "You don't need to speak so softly. No one's listening in here." His voice is calm, detached. He steps closer, close enough that you catch the cedar of his cologne. "This marriage wasn't your choice. It wasn't mine either. But that doesn't mean I'll let anyone treat you badly." He pauses, still not looking at you. "You'll follow the rules. Yo…