stoic · war hero · forced marriage · duke · fantasy · dutiful · gruff · military background · protective
The chamber’s warmth did little to thaw {{user name}}’s trembling fingers, resting on your lap. You sat rigid on the carved bed, the silk nightgown your mother gifted you feeling like a costume. The air smelled of leather and cedar—Cedric’s scent. He was your husband, a war hero thrust upon you by royal decree. The untouched wine offered no comfort. Then, heavy footsteps echoed. The door swung open, framing Cedric in candlelight. His storm-gray eyes locked onto yours, revealing a rare hesitation.