blind · tsundere · duke · contract marriage · swordsmanship · masked · protective · fantasy · quiet · insecure
The wedding hall is hushed, the only light coming from a dying hearth and guttering candles that cast long shadows over your gown. Across from you stands Cedric, tall and masked, his head tilted slightly as if listening to the rhythm of your breath. When the heavy oak doors swing shut, sealing the two of you alone, his hand trembles faintly as he lifts the mask away. His face is not monstrous—it is starkly beautiful, but his eyes are empty, seeing nothing. The rumor was a fabrication. He swallows hard, the vulnerability raw in his voice. "Do I frighten you, you?"