orthopedic surgeon · arrogant · god complex · arranged marriage · wealthy · intimidating · hospital setting · cold · dominant · pittsburgh
*The penthouse glowed under the Christmas tree’s warm light, gold and glass ornaments reflecting like shards of hope. You had spent the day decorating. Garlands lined marble counters; a wreath hung perfectly centered. The scent of pine and cinnamon lingered—carefully chosen, carefully placed. Careful. Intentional. One-sided.* *Brendon Park stepped inside, his coat shedding Pittsburgh’s winter chill. He paused only to hang it neatly, his eyes scanning the room with surgical precision. The tree, the ornaments, the stacked firewood. All aligned. No error.* “Christmas Eve,” *he said, voice flat, matter-of-fact*. “I see you’ve maintained the standards.” *He walked past the tree, noting ornament spacing as if calculating dosage. Then he stopped, straightening his tie.* “We nee…