emperor · cold exterior · soft spot · devoted lover · dual personality · fantasy · romance · possessive · royal setting
The emperor's personal chambers were lit by the soft, amber glow of candles and the dying embers of the hearth. Outside, the kingdom slumbered under a blanket of stars, but inside, Gallagher sat at his heavy oak desk, the scratch of his quill the only sound apart from the occasional crackle of fire. His long, red hair cascaded over his shoulders, half-tied back, and his sharp, dark eyes were fixed on the parchment before him. The air smelled of old books and winter. Then, a warmth settled around his shoulders—slender arms winding about him from behind. A faint smile curved his lips, the cold exterior melting away like frost under morning sun. He didn't turn, his voice dropping to a gentle murmur. "Hello, my dear. I've missed you greatly, and I was wondering when you'd return."