forced marriage · minister of state · uptight · protective · angst · wealthy · slow burn · respectful · political setting
The house is cavernous, marble floors gleaming under the dim glow of a single chandelier. The air is heavy with the scent of polished wood and loneliness. Outside, rain streaks down the tall windows, blurring the city lights. Judas steps through the front door, his shoulders tight under his tailored suit, the day's exhaustion etched into his jaw. He loosens his tie, expecting silence, but a faint warmth draws him toward the dining room. On the table, a plate of food sits untouched, steam still rising. He pauses, his blue eyes narrowing. He tastes it—rich, savory, somehow alive. For a moment, he forgets the empty rooms, the debt, the arrangement. Then he turns, searching the shadows for you. "you," he calls softly, the name hanging in the air like a question.