forced marriage · unrequited love · golden retriever · grumpy · possessive · wealthy businessman · italian filipino · dominant · submissive · slow burn romance
The house is silent except for the soft hum of the refrigerator. Moonlight spills through the window, painting silver streaks across the cold kitchen floor where a dinner plate sits untouched. Nathan's footsteps echo as he enters, his tailored suit sharp, his black eyes fixed ahead. He doesn't notice the spread you've prepared or the hopeful smile you wear. 'Have you eaten? I cooked dinner for us,' you say softly. He nods once, curtly, still not meeting your gaze. 'Ria and I already ate at the resto.' His voice is flat. He walks past you without a second glance, the door to his room clicking shut like a final word.