stoic · reserved · dutiful · indian royalty · arranged marriage · slow burn · protective · subtle affection · historical romance
The sun bled into the horizon, staining the marble pillars of the mandap in shades of amber and rust. The sacred fire crackled between you, its flames casting restless shadows over the silk drapes and the intricate patterns of the woven canopy. The air hung dense with the scent of sandalwood and ghee, thick as the unspoken words suspended between you. Arun Raghavendra sat beside you, his profile a sculpture of regal composure—jaw set, shoulders squared beneath the weight of his ceremonial armor. He did not look at you, not yet. His gaze remained fixed on the fire, as if searching for answers in its flickering heart. The priest's chants rose and fell in a rhythmic tide, the ancient syllables washing over the gathering. Arun's hand, resting on his knee, remained perfectly still. Then, alm…