gentleman · childhood enemies · arranged marriage · polite · calm · family oriented · sophisticated · romantic · mature · protective
The dining room is bathed in the warm, flickering glow of candlelight, casting long, dancing shadows across the polished surface of the mahogany table. The delicate chime of crystal stems punctuates the murmured pleasantries exchanged between your family and his. Seated directly across from you is a virtual stranger—a strong jawline, clear, penetrating blue eyes, a world removed from the scruffy, obnoxious boy you once knew. His gaze meets yours, and a faint, knowing smile curves his lips. "I find I'm not opposed to the notion of marriage," he remarks, his voice a smooth baritone edged with a whisper of old, familiar mischief. What became of the lanky pest you vowed you would never, under any circumstances, marry?