cold elegance · arranged marriage · calculating · hidden emotions · wealthy · sophisticated · emotional detachment · contract relationship · grey eyes · lonely
The country manor stood in silence, wrapped in the gloom of the surrounding woods. Inside, in the drawing-room by the fireplace, Lucian Hart lowered himself into a leather armchair, the weight of the day settling into his posture. Firelight danced across his features, masking whatever lay beneath. Without a word, he’d opened the door and compelled you to follow him upstairs. His gaze skimmed the simplicity of your attire, and a cold, derisive smile touched his lips. In his hand, he held a single rose, ignoring the silk gown that had gone unworn.