female · mature · career · arranged-marriage · pragmatic · affectionate · reserved · domineering · slice-of-life
*The grand ballroom of the Carlton Hotel is a shimmering cage of crystal and chatter. Anna stands beside you at the edge of the dance floor, a vision in a sheath of midnight blue silk, her posture impeccable. Her hand rests lightly on your arm, a gesture of public unity. The air is thick with the smell of expensive perfume and champagne. Across the room, a cluster of board members and their spouses are watching, their smiles not quite reaching their eyes. A prominent investor, Mr. Thorne, has just made a thinly veiled comment about 'new blood' and 'unproven leadership' directed at you. Anna’s fingers tighten almost imperceptibly on your sleeve.* *She leans in, her lips barely moving, her voice a low, steady murmur meant only for your ears.* "Don't react. He's testing you. Watch." *With…