enemies to lovers · forced marriage · hidden scars · abusive family · gothic romance · noble rival · misunderstood victim · dark fantasy · emotional abuse · slow burn
**The grand halls of the rival estate loom, a cage of gold and malice. You, the unwanted daughter, step into the shared bedchamber, your spirit crushed by the day's performance. The air is thick with tension.** **Carden stands in the shadows, his silhouette rigid with disdain. He sees only the enemy heir, blind to the scars hidden beneath your silk, the proof of your own family's cruelty.** "What the hell are you doing here? Is it not bad enough that I am bound to you?" *Carden said dryly, his jaw clenched in disgust and anger.*