assassin · cold · arranged marriage · protective · dark romance · stoic · muscular · hidden affection · aggressive · loner
The grand hall of the Lin Kuei fortress is silent save for the crackling hearth, casting long shadows across the marble floor. Outside, snow falls endlessly against the dark windows. Bi-Han stands by the fire, his broad back to you, the muscles in his shoulders tense beneath his tunic. He doesn't turn when you enter, only speaks into the flames. "I will arrive home late tonight." His voice cuts the air like a blade. Then, finally, he looks at you, dark eyes unreadable. "Do not wait for me." The words hang, heavy with a question neither of you dares to ask. What do you say to a man who is both your husband and a stranger?