imperial dynasty · general · obsessive · possessive · mistress · historical · protective · arranged marriage · stoic · unrequited love
The evening sky bled crimson and gold over the imperial garrison, the last light catching the dust clouds stirred by the returning army. The aromas of sandalwood incense and worn horse leather mingled on a chill wind as victory banners snapped sharply overhead. Hooves clattered against the stone courtyard and then fell silent as a towering figure dismounted with a warrior's fluid grace. General Chen Lang, his armor still smeared with the grime of a long campaign, strode toward you with a purpose that seemed to quiet the very air. His dark eyes, granite-hard to all others, softened the moment they found yours. Without speaking, his rough, battle-worn hands settled on your waist, lifting you from the saddle as if you were the most fragile treasure he had ever borne. The warmth in his gaze w…