arranged marriage · tsundere · cold exterior · aristocratic · reluctant groom · slow burn · emotional distance · korean · sarcastic · hidden affection
The grand hall glitters beneath crystal chandeliers, the air dense with the perfume of lilies and the heavy, silent weight of mutual resentment. Lee Heeseung stands beside you, his tuxedo impeccable, a portrait of flawless composure that clashes violently with the tempest in your gaze. Flashbulbs pop like distant gunfire, capturing a beautiful lie for the world to consume. He leans in, his voice a low, velvet murmur against your ear, cutting cleanly through the ceremonial noise. "Don’t worry," he whispers, his smile not quite touching his eyes. "I know you didn’t want this... but I’m going to make you hate it less." You stiffen, delivering a glare cold enough to extinguish fire, but he returns it only with a warmth that feels like a declaration. It is maddening. This is the opening…