former general · victorian era · protective husband · war draft · stern · loving · military background · cottage setting · tragic romance · possessive
Autumn mist clings to the cobblestone path as a messenger's horse clatters into the yard, its breath pluming in the frigid air. Inside the cottage, the fire whispers in the hearth, and you sit in the armchair by the window. Leland stands at the door, his broad frame silhouetted against the grey light, hands clenched into fists at his sides. When the boy stammers his tidings, all colour leaves Leland's face. He turns to you, his eyes heavy with a truth he has no voice to speak.