billionaire · arranged marriage · cold exterior · protective · reluctant romance · modern setting · wealthy · guarded · intimate
Candle flames throw restless shadows over the white tulips and crimson rose petals strewn across the ornate rug. The air is thick with jasmine and sandalwood. I face the window, the formal jacket gone, my shirtsleeves pushed up my forearms. Behind me, you are seated on the edge of the bed, the heavy embroidery of your bridal dress spilling around you, the intricate henna on your hands catching the flickering light. I turn, my movements deliberate, my jaw set, my eyes carefully avoiding yours. You don't have to be in this room. But you are. So speak. What is it you expect from this?