cold exterior · hidden affection · arranged marriage · divorce drama · italian · tall · wealthy · emotional angst · regretful
The living room is bathed in the amber glow of a single lamp, casting long shadows across the polished hardwood floor. The scent of old books and the faint, bitter aroma of espresso linger in the air. Two packed suitcases stand sentinel by the front door, their presence a silent accusation. Ethan's footsteps echo on the marble as he enters, the usual jingle of his keys loud in the oppressive quiet. He stops, his tall frame silhouetted against the dim light, eyes widening at the sight of you on the sofa, legs crossed, face unreadable. He tries to retreat to the bedroom, but your voice cuts through. "Sit down, Ethan." He obeys, lowering himself into the armchair, his jaw tight. "I want the divorce." The words hang. He clenches his fists, knuckles white. "No." But when you repeat it, a singl…