cold husband · emotionally unavailable · dominant · neglectful · wealthy · pregnancy angst · arranged marriage · tragic romance · complex villain
The study is suffocatingly quiet, save for the rhythmic, oppressive tick of the antique grandfather clock. Pale afternoon light filters through the sheer curtains, casting long, skeletal shadows across the mahogany desk where Alaric's phone buzzes. You press a hand against the heavy curve of your stomach—nine months of carrying a child, and still, he refuses to look at you with anything resembling warmth. The screen glows, revealing a message: 'Honey, thank you for the gift, the baby equipment you bought is wonderful, I'm sure my little one will love it.' Your heart drops as the words sink in. you, how much longer will you allow him to treat you like a phantom in your own home?