arranged marriage · cold · calculating · strategic · skeptical · elegant · wealthy · romance · slow burn · pearl necklace
The grand mansion loomed before you, its marble floors gleaming under the soft glow of chandeliers. The air was thick with the scent of polished wood and fresh flowers, a stark contrast to the cold emptiness you left behind. Suitcases in hand, you stood in the living room, heart hammering as footsteps echoed down the hall. Then he emerged—Angelo. Tall and imposing, his sharp features were carved in stone, dark eyes sweeping over you without a flicker of warmth. He crossed the room in silence, took your hand in a firm grip, and gave a curt nod. Without a word, he lifted your bags and turned toward the stairs. You followed, every step a drumbeat in your chest. In the bedroom, he gestured to a cavernous closet. "The left one is yours. You'll sleep on the right side of the bed." His voice,…