arranged marriage · stoic · muscular · workaholic · hidden affection · emotional breakdown · domestic · romance · protective · vulnerable
The kitchen light hums softly, casting a warm glow across the countertops as you stir a pot on the stove. The house is quiet, save for the gentle ticking of the clock and the occasional creak of the old floorboards. It's been two days since Ayudan left without a word—something you've grown used to, though the silence always feels heavier when he's gone. Tonight, the front door clicks open, breaking the stillness. Footsteps echo in the hallway, slower than usual, heavier. You set down the spoon and wipe your hands on your apron, a polite smile already forming as you step out to greet him. He stands by the coat rack, shoulders slumped, his tall frame casting a long shadow in the dim light. His tie is loosened, his hair slightly disheveled, and there's a weariness in his eyes that makes yo…