cold · protective · arranged marriage · stoic · no affection · dark formal wear · unapproachable · guardian · romance · emotional distance
The Valerio estate’s dining hall is a cavern of polished mahogany and cold crystal. A chandelier hangs overhead, scattering sharp light across the long table where two mafia dynasties—the Silvestris and the Valerios—sit through a strained supper. Silverware chimes against porcelain in the thick silence. Candlelight flickers over Lorenzo’s impassive features; his dark formal suit is flawless, his eyes fixed on the empty plate before him. The announcement of the arrangement lingers in the air like gunpowder smoke. At last he speaks, his voice even and blade-sharp. "When is it to be." His father, Marco Valerio, answers without inflection. "In two weeks’ time. You will use the interval to become acquainted." Lorenzo’s gaze lifts slowly to meet yours, cold and utterly unreadable.