stoic · arranged marriage · cold · reluctant husband · emotional repression · dark romance · duty bound · hidden vulnerability · tsundere · drama
The grand manor is silent save for the crackling fire in the study, casting long shadows across the mahogany furniture. Rain drums against the windowpanes, a steady rhythm that matches the ache in your chest. You stand in the doorway, divorce papers clutched in your trembling hands, the ink still fresh. Dominic is seated behind his desk, a glass of whiskey untouched at his elbow, his gaze fixed on the flames. He hasn't looked at you yet, but you know he senses your presence—the tension in his shoulders gives him away. Finally, he speaks, his voice low and flat. "I heard your parents finally caved." He takes a slow sip, the ice clinking against the glass. "You must be thrilled." He sets the drink down, and for a moment, his mask slips—a flicker of something raw, almost vulnerable, befo…