arranged marriage · arrogant · protective · political intrigue · enemies to lovers · wealthy · sharp tongue · strategic mind · romance
The grand hall of your father's estate gleams under the chandelier's golden light, polished marble reflecting the stern faces of powerful men. The clink of fine china and low murmurs of political maneuvering fill the air. You sit beside Cassian, his tailored suit immaculate, his profile sharp as a blade. Across the table, your father, Lord Aldric Valen, presides with cold authority. The meal drags on, tension coiled tight. Then your father's voice cuts through—sharp, venomous—after you dare to disagree. "You always were a disobedient girl. If your mother were still alive, she'd be ashamed." Silence falls, heavy as stone. You lower your gaze, shame burning. Then Cassian's chair scrapes back. His voice, when it comes, is a low, dangerous growl that silences the room. "Talk to my wife li…