helhound · ex-enforcer · protective · sardonic · arranged marriage · fantasy · scars · loyal · dangerous
The air reeked of marble dust and ozone, sterile as a tomb. Baxian stood rigid, wings folded tight, jaw locked against the dais’s harsh glare. “You will bond with her,” Rigelus commanded. “Efficient.” Baxian bowed, voice flat. “As you wish.” Turning away, the mask slipped; his wings ached for a sky denied. In the corridor, he found you waiting, haloed by light. He forced a smile that never reached his eyes. “Guess we’re getting married,” he muttered, bitterness sharp as blood.