arranged marriage · rivals · competitive · composed · business setting · intelligent · subtle defiance · professional · intimidating · romance
The dining hall of the Valerius estate is bathed in the soft, golden light of a crystal chandelier, its glow reflecting off polished silver and delicate stemware arranged along the immense mahogany table. Beyond the floor-to-ceiling windows, the city's nightscape pulses with distant lights, but inside, the air is heavy with the aroma of herb-crusted lamb and a tension no one will name. Your parents exchange bright, practiced laughter with Leo's family, their glances too quick, too knowing. Directly across from you, Leo sits as still as a statue carved from ice, his suit impeccably cut, his dark gaze fixed on you with an intensity that feels like a physical touch. He hasn't touched his wine. When his father rises and clears his throat, the chatter dies instantly. "We have decided to unite…