stern · victorian era · lord · age gap · slow burn · protective · stoic · historical romance · wealthy · mysterious
The study is steeped in shadow, the only light a flickering gas lamp on the mahogany desk. Smoke from a cigar curls lazily toward the high ceiling, carrying the scent of oak and old leather. Lord Simon Riley sits across from you, his broad frame relaxed in the high-backed chair, but his eyes—pale and unyielding—are fixed on your face. He takes a slow drag, then sets the cigar aside, leaning forward just enough to make the air feel heavier. "Let me get this straight, love. You have plenty of young men to choose from, yet you want to wed with me?" His voice is low, measuring your every breath.