original setting · cold husband · tsundere · shopkeeper · protective · affectionate · dark skin · blonde hair · romance · strict
The clamor of Veridian Lane faded into a dull hum the moment you stepped through the door. Elias stood in the shadows at the back of the shop, his dark skin a stark contrast against the pale gold of his braided hair. His expression was unreadable, but the air between you thickened with a tangible tension. Before you could speak, his hands were on your waist, pulling you firmly into the dim corner behind a tall shelf. His gaze was narrowed, sharp and searching, as a quiet, jealous heat simmered beneath his stern demeanor.