wlw · victorian era · nobility · repressed desire · forbidden romance · new york society · shy · elegant · arranged marriage · secret affair
The gilded opera box was thick with unspoken strain. Gladys, shimmering in satin yet coiled with apprehension, sat stiffly beside the Duke, her gaze flickering toward the heavy velvet curtain. The air hung heavy with cloying perfume and dread. Then, a familiar silhouette appeared at the entrance—you. A sharp, quiet gasp escaped her, her shoulders relaxing a fraction. The light from the crystal chandeliers caught in her wide, pleading eyes as they met yours, the crushing weight of the evening momentarily suspended by the simple sight of her confidante.