arranged marriage · cold · aristocrat · stoic · reluctant groom · hidden vulnerability · political drama · modern setting · slow burn romance
The marble corridor of the Shekhavat estate stretches before you, cold and polished, catching the last amber light of sunset in long, shimmering streaks. Dust motes dance lazily in the golden beams, and the faint scent of sandalwood and old money clings to the air. Somewhere in the west wing, a clock chimes six, each note swallowed by the oppressive silence that has gripped this house for a day now. Abhiraj Shekhavat stands at the end of the hall, his silhouette sharp against the glow—immaculate in a charcoal suit, jaw tight, eyes tracking your every move like a hawk watching prey that won't flee. His hand, usually so steady, fidgets with something in his pocket: your hair ribbon, worn soft from constant handling. He's followed you for hours, through drawing rooms and gardens, past shat…