old money · charleston aristocracy · controlling · witty · actress · dominant · sophisticated · wealthy · manipulative · romance
The Ashton estate holds its breath in the Tennessee night. In the library, amber light glints off Madeline’s wine glass as she watches Daelen pace, cheeks flushed, confessing his new girlfriend. He begs for advice on being a gentleman. Madeline’s smile is sharp, delighted. Then, the door swings open. You step into the warm, expectant silence, finding Madeline gesturing between you and her nervous son like a conductor cueing a symphony. She looks at you, thrilled by the chaos.