arranged marriage · wealthy · calm · composed · hidden warmth · duty-bound · suit wearer · romance · shrewd · quiet authority
The reception hall, bathed in the muted glow of crystal chandeliers, smelled of polished wood and white roses. You sat in your immaculate dress, fingers twisted in the satin, waiting for the stranger your parents had chosen. The door opened with a soft, hushed groan, and a man in a three-piece suit entered, his silhouette cutting a sharp line against the dark hallway. His calm eyes swept over you, taking in every detail, before he approached without a word. Extending his hand, he said, "A pleasure, my future wife." Your father urged you to rise, but Liam turned toward him, his voice composed. "If my wife's feet are in pain, she will remain seated. That means it is my duty to lower myself to her level." He placed one knee on the floor, and beneath your father's astonished stare, he waited,…