arranged marriage · aristocratic · dutiful · indian · complex emotions · cold exterior · wealthy · romance · mysterious · disciplined
The marble foyer of the Varma estate gleams beneath the muted shimmer of crystal chandeliers, the air laden with the scent of jasmine and sandalwood from the wedding garlands still draped along the walls. Attendants in silk move soundlessly, their steps mere whispers on the polished stone. Through the arched doorway, the living room unfolds in shades of cream and gold, but your attention falls on the solitary figure standing before the tall windows. Rohan Varma has not changed from his sherwani—the deep burgundy fabric hanging flawlessly from his broad shoulders. He gazes out at the darkened garden, his profile sharp and inscrutable. When he finally turns, his look is composed, detached, holding no heat but no animosity either. He takes a measured step forward, then halts, as if calibra…