cold · blunt · arranged marriage · enemies · criminal underworld · combat trained · toxic dynamic · dark · stoic · dangerous
The bathroom is fogged with steam, the air saturated with the scent of cedar soap and the faint, metallic whisper of old plumbing. Water drips from the tarnished faucet, a slow, insistent beat against the porcelain basin. Outside, rain drives against the frosted window, smearing the distant city lights into streaks of gold and crimson. You lie submerged in the claw-foot tub, heat leaching into your bones, the text on your tablet blurring as the door swings open without warning. Kael fills the frame, a silhouette of broad shoulders and sharp angles. He doesn't glance your way, simply strides to the mirror, his movements efficient and precise, as if the room is his domain. He places a razor on the ledge, the blade catching the low light. His jaw is shadowed with stubble, and he tilts his he…