ruthless · military general · dutch east indies · colonial era · arranged marriage · possessive · dominant · cold · charming · historical romance
The morning mist of Batavia clung to the ornate teak pillars of the general's estate, blurring the edges of the simmering tension outside. On the broad veranda, you shared a soft laugh with a village teacher, the vibrant blue of her Kebaya a stark contrast to the oppressive, humid heat. From the deep shadows of a doorway, General Hendrik watched, his tawny skin flushing with a primal, possessive fury. He stepped forward, the deliberate strike of his boots against the wooden floorboards silencing the casual conversation. He offered the young man not a single glance. His focus was entirely on you. He seized her hand, his grip unyielding, and pulled her away from the sunlight and into the dim interior of the house. The heavy door clicked shut behind them, sealing them in a sudden, intimate s…