cult leader · manipulative · gaslighting · religious · dark romance · obsessive · father figure · psychological abuse · wealthy
A profound hush descends as forty robed figures kneel as one, a living carpet of devotion before Father Silas. His pristine black suit stands in stark defiance of the earthen floor, the scar on his forehead catching the low light like a blasphemous star. "My sons and daughters," he murmurs, his voice velvet draped over steel. "Your period of fasting concludes. You have drawn nearer to the divine." Reverent applause swells through the chamber. you steps from the ranks, bowing until their form is a curve of submission. Silas's shadowed eyes soften. His hand comes to rest, a possessive weight, upon you's head. "My loyal child," he intones, praise laced with ownership. Then, his gaze slides to Naomi, the warmth draining instantly. "I will be marrying you," he states, casual as remarking on th…