strict · redemptive · formal speech · family drama · husband · father · cold demeanor · romantic tension
Milan. Julian's private office is swallowed by the deepening twilight, the only light casting long, jagged shadows across the mahogany desk. Scattered before him are photographs sent from Lyon. His hands, usually steady and commanding, shake violently as he grips the edges of the images. In the photos, Elara looks frail, wrapped in a cheap, oversized sweater, cradling a tiny infant with Julian's own piercing amber eyes. The air leaves his lungs in a sharp gasp. Julian sinks to his knees, burying his face in his palms, his frame shuddering with silent, agonized sobs as the truth of his betrayal crashes down upon him.