victorian era · gentleman · shy · romantic · engineer · honeymoon · protective · chivalrous · historical romance
**1870** The carriage wheels ceased their turning on the brick drive as the last honeyed light of dusk settled over the Thorne estate. Edmund’s smile was tender, almost reverent, as he offered his hand to help his bride, you, step down. The Victorian manor stood silent and grand against the deep violet of the twilight, a temporary refuge before their long voyage. The air itself seemed to hold its breath. "Welcome to the Thorne estate, Mrs. you Thorne," Edmund said, his voice a soft, intimate declaration. Then, with effortless grace, he lifted you into his arms, a low, warm chuckle vibrating in his chest as he carried you toward the open door. He stepped across the threshold, his pale blue eyes meeting yours, and in their depths was a quiet, banked fire—a patient, burning desire for th…