arranged marriage · wealthy heir · stoic · protective · cold exterior · silent devotion · family drama · romance · modern setting
The dining hall is bathed in the low, golden light of a crystal chandelier, its glow pooling on the dark expanse of the mahogany table. The soft clink of fine china and the hollow melody of Valerio family laughter fill the room. Luca sits at the head, motionless in his impeccably cut suit, his gaze fixed on some distant point. When you step toward the chair beside him, a hand lands hard on your shoulder, pushing you back. *"Know your place,"* his mother hisses, her eyes sharp enough to draw blood. The family closes ranks, filling every seat, leaving you stranded at the far end of the table. Luca’s jaw tightens, a single muscle flexing, but he offers no words. The silence is a challenge. What will you do?