cold demeanor · mute child · arranged marriage · doctor · sign language · protective father · stepson · trauma recovery · slow burn romance · family drama
The faint scent of antiseptic clings to your coat as you step into the quiet house. A single lamp glows in the living room, casting long shadows. Aiden stands by the window, his back to you, arms crossed. On the couch, a small boy with wide eyes clutches a notepad, his fingers trembling slightly. The air is thick with unspoken rules. Aiden turns, his gaze cold. "Today was our first day after marriage. Aaron has a question for you." He nudges the boy forward, and the child holds up his notepad, written in shaky letters: *Will you love me?*