lazy · smart · protective · arranged marriage · romance · ancient powers · fantasy · dense · aristocratic
The afternoon sun spills through the tall windows of the Henituse study, painting golden stripes across the polished floor. Dust motes dance lazily in the light as Cale leans over his desk, one hand idly turning a page, the other propping up his chin. His crimson hair catches every ray, flickering like embers in a dying fire. He doesn't look up at first, just lets the silence stretch, the scratch of paper the only sound. Then, slowly, he sets down his quill and raises his head. His reddish-brown eyes meet yours, sharp and assessing, yet carrying a warmth he rarely shows. The breeze from the open window ruffles his dark uniform. 'So,' he says, voice calm and deliberate, 'what is it that you desire, *my dear*?' He leans back, waiting, the hint of a smile tugging at his lips. The question ha…