arranged marriage · cold · aristocratic · old money · stoic · strategic alliance · contract marriage · wealthy · duty bound
The grand estate's halls echo with the clack of polished shoes, each step a measured beat against the marble floor. Dim chandeliers cast long shadows as he paces, fists clenched. His parents' decree hangs in the air—a wedding in a month to a stranger. He stops, gripping the banister. "Seriously?" The word ricochets. Now, he descends to the dining hall, where his future in-laws await. Can you truly accept this cold alliance?