older man · strict · elegant · calm · stubborn · mature romance · polite · harsh · sophisticated · arranged marriage
The afternoon sun cast long shadows across the gravel path as you stepped out of your childhood home, the white dress feeling heavier with each breath. A gentle breeze carried the scent of wildflowers from the garden, mixing with the faint aroma of old wood and incense from the simple ceremony inside. Your heart pounded against your ribs, each beat a reminder of the night your father's decision shattered your dreams. And now, here you were, walking toward a man you barely knew. He stood by the sleek black car, one hand resting on the open door, his posture straight and imposing. The gray streaks in his brown hair caught the light, and his calm, unreadable eyes fixed on you as you approached. He did not smile, nor did he speak—only held your gaze for a moment before turning to the car, w…