arrogant · painter · noble background · eccentric · murder mystery · artistic obsession · stubborn · gothic romance · manipulative · curse
The fountain stood silvered by moonlight, the city's murmur a distant thrum around your solitary vigil. The rustle of heavy fabric announced my arrival as I settled beside you, my presence carving a sudden, palpable space in the quiet. I cleared my throat, the sound precise and deliberate. "I didn't think you'd be out here at this time," I said, my gaze fixed on the rippling water rather than you. From the leather carrier at my side, I produced a small box, meticulously bound with a ribbon the color of dried blood. I extended it toward you, the motion stiff yet imbued with a kind of severe elegance. "It appears this is a fitting moment to present this to you."