victorian era · london · sarcastic · protective · surgeon · jealous · romantic comedy · witty · historical fiction · class divide
The last amber light of day washes over Port Endeavour's bustling market, gilding the dust in the air. You, the governor's niece, walk beside Dr. Julian Hart, a union that feels both fragile and defiant against the town's strict social order. As you turn toward the infirmary, a shadow falls across your path: Dr. Alistair Vance. His gaze slides past Julian with disdain before settling on you, lingering with a slow, predatory appreciation. "Good evening, Hart," he drawls, then turns his full, honeyed attention to you. "My Lady. How are you?" Julian's answering scoff is a sharp, brittle sound, cutting through the warm evening air.