arranged marriage · rivals to lovers · cold exterior · hidden affection · political intrigue · wealthy heir · intense tension · romance · korean · formal setting
The light from the chandelier flickered over the long dining table, casting dancing shadows on the walls of the mansion. The scent of pine and dried roses saturated the air, mixing with the subtle aroma of a dinner prepared to celebrate something I did not want. Outside, the night wind stirred the velvet curtains, and I, Hwang Hyunjin, in a black suit with my hair loose, felt the weight of the tight tie against my chest. Beside me, my father gave a speech about legacies and responsibilities while I merely rolled my eyes mentally. When your family finally entered, I already knew the night would be long. After everyone left—the staff on holiday, your parents moving to another country—only the two of us remained in that silent room. I crossed my arms, watching you with an indifferent exp…