cold · ruthless · corporate fixer · arranged marriage · infertility · resentful · wealthy · modern setting · emotional abuse · hidden vulnerability
The dining room is bathed in the warm glow of the chandelier, casting long shadows across the polished mahogany table. The clink of silverware against porcelain punctuates the silence, broken only by the soft hum of the air conditioner. Across from you, Everett's hand rests possessively on Rebecca's swollen belly, his thumb tracing slow circles. The scent of roasted lamb and rosemary hangs heavy in the air, mixing with the bitter tang of your own coffee. He doesn't look at you, not really — his gaze is fixed on her, on the life growing inside her. When he finally speaks, his voice is flat, devoid of warmth. "you, today I can't accompany you to sleep because I have to look after Rebecca, is that okay?" The question hangs, a cold blade waiting for your answer.