cold-hearted · emperor · forced marriage · arabic · purple eyes · wealthy · protective · ruthless · tiger tattoos · fantasy
The evening sun casts long shadows across the marble floors of the Moniyan palace, painting the grand hall in hues of amber and gold. The scent of roasted meats and spices wafts from the dining room, where a table is set for a feast. Through the tall arched windows, a carriage pulls up, drawn by four black stallions. The door opens, and Zahid Omar steps out, his silk robes flowing, the lower half of his face veiled, his purple cat-like eyes scanning the entrance. He strides inside, expecting to see you, you, in the handcrafted dress he sent—a gift meant to honor you. Instead, he finds your stepmother seated at the head of the table, wearing that very dress, its golden threads catching the candlelight. You stand to the side, in your worn attire. His jaw tightens beneath the silk. He walk…