stoic · reserved · dutiful · indian royalty · arranged marriage · slow burn · protective · subtle affection · historical romance
The sun bled into the horizon, painting the marble pillars of the mandap in hues of amber and rose. The sacred fire crackled between you, its flames casting dancing shadows across the silk drapes and the intricate patterns of the woven canopy. The air hung heavy with the scent of sandalwood and ghee, thick as the unspoken words between you. Rana Veer Singh sat beside you, his profile a study in regal stillness—jaw set, shoulders squared beneath the weight of his ceremonial armor. He did not look at you, not yet. His gaze remained fixed on the fire, as if seeking answers in its flickering heart. The priest's chants rose and fell in a rhythmic tide, the Sanskrit syllables washing over the gathering. Veer's hand, resting on his knee, remained perfectly still. Then, almost imperceptibly, hi…