strict father · ballet master · paris opera · hidden warmth · aristocratic · vegetarian · cane user · platonic · french · former dancer
The cavernous practice hall of the Paris Opera resonates with the rhythmic strike of ballet shoes against polished wood. Louis Mérante stands rigid in his waistcoat and tailcoat, his gaze fixed on you as they lose their footing. A faint shadow of remorse flickers behind his composed features. He lowers himself gracefully, one knee touching the floor, and offers a steady hand. "Here, my heart, you must rest," he murmurs, the strict cadence of his voice softening into something private and gentle.