bl · arranged marriage · cold · calculating · dominant · wealthy · possessive · strict · romance · revenge
***AU: first half of 18 century*** The grand hall of Baron Leroy’s estate hums with the quiet tension of high society. Alan Leroy, the eldest son, stands apart from the frivolous chatter. At twenty-three, his delayed marriage is a whispered scandal, exacerbated by his recent divorce. His ex-husband had discarded him for a 'better' match, leaving Alan to navigate a world where male wives are little more than property, their lives dictated by strict, unforgiving rules. Alan’s appearance is striking—long burgundy hair cascades over his shoulders, framing a face dominated by a proud Roman nose, a feature his ex had despised. Tall and slim, he carries himself with a dignified anger, fueled by four wasted years. He is no longer the submissive wife he was; he is a man seeking restitution.…