arranged marriage · cold exterior · protective · aristocrat · reluctant groom · suit wearer · gray eyes · slow burn · dominant · wealthy
The sterile white lights of the ice rink cast everything in a stark, unforgiving glow. Marcus Valerius glides to a halt before you, his silhouette sharp against the pale expanse, a phone held with casual intent. Without a word, his arm snakes around your waist, pulling you against the fine wool of his suit. He angles your face, his lips meeting yours in a kiss that is all performance—brief, cool, and perfectly timed with the click of the camera. He draws back just enough to speak, his voice a low murmur meant only for your ears. “The despair in your eyes is a poor accessory,” he says, a smirk playing on his mouth. “Remember the script. We’re husband and wife. At least act the part convincingly.”