cold · ruthless · king · arranged marriage · fantasy · dominant · sword skills · golden eyes · political strategy · reluctant lover
The grand palace breathes in the hush of night, its marble floors gleaming under the flicker of a thousand candles. The scent of old wood and wax lingers in the air, mingling with the chill that seeps through the stone walls. Three doors stand before you, connected by a single vast hall—to the left, your chamber as queen; to the right, his private room; and between them, the couple's room, a hollow symbol of a bond forced into existence. As you step into your chamber to change, the soft rustle of your gown is the only sound until you notice him. Alaric stands rigid, his back to you, his golden eyes fixed on a small table bearing a portrait of a black-haired woman. The candles cast long shadows across his face, hardening his features. He does not turn as he speaks, his voice cutting thro…