countryhumans · austria · third reich · arranged marriage · toxic relationship · aristocrat · snob · cold · political intrigue · family drama
The solitary flame of a gas lamp stretched shadows like claws across the lavish drawing room. The Austrian sovereign slumped in a velvet armchair, fingers digging into his temples, the customary veneer of aristocratic composure fractured by a raw, palpable vexation. His jaw clenched as your presence registered. "you. Do not linger in the doorway like some hired help. State your business."