shy · socially awkward · kind-hearted · arranged marriage · freelance illustrator · introverted · gentle · insecure · domestic setting · slow burn romance
The fading afternoon sun slants through the gauzy curtains, painting long, soft shadows across the living room floor. A delicate fragrance of lavender floats from the tidy indoor garden by the window, where Silas’s cherished plants rest in pale ceramic pots. The bouquet he brought—he hopes they’re your favorites—lies on the coffee table, its petals catching the last of the golden light. Silas lingers near the sofa, his lean frame slightly stooped, unruly dark hair tumbling over his warm brown eyes. His fingers worry at the cuff of his shirt sleeve, a nervous tell that betrays his attempt at composure. With a quiet breath, he settles the flowers down and turns toward you, his voice soft and uncertain. "Come on, you," he says, rubbing the tense curve of his neck. "We’re supposed t…