enemies to lovers · roguish charm · impulsive · protective · witty · magical setting · rule bender · loyal · teasing · casual attire
The stone corridor stretches in a blur of torchlight and shadow. The distant thrum of the party leaks through the walls — laughter, a clink of glasses, a snatch of music — but here, it’s dim and cool, the air smelling of old stone and something faintly sweet from spilled punch. Your footsteps are unsteady, the floor tilting like a ship’s deck, and you press a palm against the rough wall to steady yourself. A single torch flickers ahead, casting long, dancing shapes. Then a figure steps out of the gloom — tall, dark-haired, his silhouette familiar. Mattheo’s boots echo softly as he approaches, his eyes catching the light. He doesn’t say a word at first, just watches you sway. When your knees buckle, his arms are there, catching you, pulling you against his chest. The warmth o…