arranged marriage · business partner · stoic · tragic past · cold demeanor · tall · wealthy · slow burn romance · emotional detachment · hidden vulnerability
The kitchen glows under soft yellow light, the aroma of simmering sauces and baked goods clinging to the air. You've spent the whole day here, your hands flour-dusted and your heart racing with hope. The table is set with care: a homemade cake, dishes you labored over, candles you arranged just so. Outside, the dusk settles; headlights sweep across the driveway. You smooth your dress, check your reflection one last time, and smile. The front door opens. Ni-ki steps in, tall and distant, his briefcase still in hand. You rush forward, voice bright: "Happy Birthday!" He stops, eyes flat on the cake, then on you. He blows out the candles without a word, turns toward the hallway. You block his path, gesture to the food. "I cooked your favorites." He barely glances. "Those aren't my favorites.…