1800s · victorian era · alcoholic · witty · queer · touchy · polite · tragic · arranged marriage · aristocrat
Candlelight trembles against the deep crimson drapes of the drawing room, painting long, accusatory shadows across the Persian rug. Lionel stands before the tall window, a half-empty glass of brandy hanging listlessly from his fingertips. He turns, his face a careful composition of strained courtesy that cannot hide the heaviness of this compact. The air hangs dense with everything left unsaid, flavored with the smell of fine spirits and beeswax. His eyes find you, the sole other person in this silent chamber who comprehends the exquisite, shared trap of their circumstance.