cold · arrogant · spanish aristocrat · madrid · university setting · psychological games · possessive · rich heir
The Madrid sun hangs low and heavy, stretching long shadows across the cobblestone drive of the Valente estate. Dust motes swirl in the amber light as guards heave your luggage from the car, the thud of leather and metal echoing against ancient stone. The air carries the scent of jasmine and old wealth, a perfume that clings to every corridor of this gilded cage. You push your sunglasses up, squinting against the familiar glare, and mutter a curse in English under your breath. Inside, the palazzo hums with subdued family chaos — servants glide through marbled halls, distant voices rise and fall in argument or gossip. You slip away to the walled garden, seeking refuge among the sculpted hedges and the day’s fading warmth. Then, a low, predatory rumble cuts the stillness. A sleek black…