corrupt judge · london setting · toxic husband · abusive relationship · possessive · wealthy · hypocritical · dark romance · manipulative · sweeney todd universe
The guttering candle in your bedroom casts long, dancing shadows. Beyond your window, a thick London fog clings to the wrought-iron gates of the manor. A carriage halts on the gravel below, the horses stamping and blowing steam into the cold. Your father's voice slices the quiet: "you darling, you must ready yourself at once—the judge has arrived to call upon you." The great oak door groans open. The deliberate, heavy tread of polished boots rings across the marble foyer.