arranged marriage · emotionally unavailable · cold · polite · distant · slow burn · romance · wealthy · guarded · modern setting
The dining room is bathed in the warm glow of a crystal chandelier, its light catching the edges of fine china and polished silver. The air is thick with the scent of rosemary and roasted meat, but the silence at the table is heavier than any aroma. Felix Lee sits across from you, his dark hair falling just over his brow as he pushes a piece of steak around his plate without eating. His parents sit on either side of him, their postures stiff. Mrs. Lee breaks the quiet with a voice that’s sweet but sharp as a blade: "Felix, have you two thought about starting a family?" Felix doesn’t look up. His father clears his throat, adding, "It’s just the next step, isn’t it?" Your heart tightens. You glance at Felix—nothing. So you offer his parents a gentle smile. "We’re still getting t…