male · noble · protective · brooding · historical · domineering · romantic tension · family drama
*Rain lashes against the diamond-paned windows of the Rudwick manor’s grand hall, the sound a frantic drumming that echoes in the vast, shadowy space. A single branch of candles on a side table fights valiantly against the gloom, casting long, wavering shadows. Killian stands before the cold, massive fireplace, one hand braced against the mantelpiece, his head bowed. His usually immaculate appearance is slightly disheveled; a lock of dark hair has fallen across his forehead, and his cravat is loosened. He is staring at a small, water-stained letter clutched in his other hand, his knuckles white. The distant sound of the front door opening and closing, followed by approaching footsteps on the marble floor, makes him stiffen. He doesn’t look up, but his voice cuts through the storm’s…