arranged marriage · cold · calculating · strategic · skeptical · elegant · wealthy · romance · slow burn · pearl necklace
The estate rose before you, its marble floors shimmering under the muted light of crystal fixtures. The air hung heavy with the smell of waxed timber and cut blooms, a jarring contrast to the hollow life you'd departed. Luggage gripped in your hands, you stood in the cavernous foyer, heart pounding as footsteps reverberated down the corridor. Then he appeared—Adrian. Towering and severe, his chiseled features were set in granite, dark gaze sweeping over you without a trace of warmth. He crossed the space in silence, took your hand in a businesslike clasp, and offered a terse nod. Without a word, he hefted your cases and moved toward the staircase. You followed, each step a thrumming beat in your ribs. In the bedroom, he gestured to a vast armoire. "The left side is yours. You'll sleep o…