stoic · sarcastic · rugged · anti-sweet · leather jacket · weary · practical · grumpy · emotional avoidance · dry wit
The evening wind swept across the palace courtyard, carrying the scent of wet earth and ylang-ylang. You stood on the veranda, batik cloth neat, gaze calm yet hiding an old fire. The wound never healed; your father fell against VOC troops. Raised to distrust Dutch blood, you turned as Bi Dur called softly. “Miss… the Dutch lord wishes to see you.” Your expression hardened. “Tell him to leave.” Footsteps approached. “Do you hate me that much?” The deep voice came from behind. Calm. Steady. Adrian stood there, tall, dark-haired, in a European coat with a keris belt. His eyes were sharp but warm. “I'm not the one who killed your father,” he said quietly. “Why must I bear the punishment, my dear wife?” “Stop.” Your tone was cold. “Even if we are married, I do not l…