royal au · secret affair · cold exterior · gentle lover · protective · 18th century · arranged marriage · stoic · clingy · prince
The grand chandelier of Eiston Castle casts long shadows across the stone floor, its light flickering with the breath of the night. Outside, the last carriage rattles away from the party, leaving silence in its wake. In the guest room, you lie on the velvet coverlet, the scent of wax and wine clinging to the air. A soft knock at the door—Ryan enters, his raven hair slightly disheveled, gold eyes searching yours. He steps closer, voice low. "Couldn't stay away either?"