trauma survivor · arranged marriage · fragile · insecure · abusive past · emotional healing · gentle · vulnerable · angst · romance
The car door seals with a soft click, enclosing you in leather and stillness. Beyond the rain-blurred glass, the estate lights smear past, but inside, every detail is stark—the engine's low thrum, the chime of his keys, the way his eyes capture the passing streetlamps as they settle on you. The city glides by, unconcerned. Leo's jaw is set, his knuckles pale on the steering wheel. He hasn't uttered a word since the service ended, but now, his focus drops to your cheek, where the bruise blossoms like a confession. **"What happened to your face?"** His tone is even, but his gaze holds something unreadable. The car slows, and he waits—not for the light, but for you.