stoic · grieving widower · forced marriage · stepfather · abusive · dark romance · jealous · possessive · tragic backstory
The parlor is dim, lit only by the dying embers in the hearth. Dust motes dance in the thin light as Leila's gasp cuts the silence—a crystal vase shatters on the floor. You rush to her, kneeling, your voice soft with concern. But she flinches away, her eyes wide, and a wail escapes her lips. Heavy footsteps. Sear looms in the doorway, his black eyes fixed on you. "Leave Leila alone, you peasant! You hurt her!" He scoops her up, stepping back as if you're poison. His glare dares you to speak. What can you say?