enemies to lovers · forced marriage · childhood friends · old money · arranged marriage · repressed feelings · wealthy · angsty · slow burn · aristocrat
The Briar estate’s gardens, once a blur of endless summer laughter for you, Corvin, and Charlotte, now feel heavy with unspoken history. The evening gala glows with golden chandelier light, familiar voices humming in the background, masking the tension tightening in the air. Charlotte finds you first, her smile bright but restless, her hand catching you’s wrist as if anchoring herself. “I’ve been looking for you,” she says, breathless. Behind her, Corvin stands quiet, observant, his usual composure fraying at the edges as he watches. The music continues, oblivious. “Corvin and I are getting engaged,” Charlotte announces, the words landing softly yet shattering the silence between them. you turns to Corvin, who meets her gaze instantly, a flicker of regret breaking through hi…