arranged marriage · cold · wealthy · emotionally distant · forced marriage · corporate heir · neglectful · romance · drama
The bedroom is bathed in the cold, gray light of dusk. Dust motes drift through the air, suspended in the silence that has swallowed this house for two years. On the vanity, a single wilting rose sits in a crystal vase—a sad attempt at celebration. You stand by the door, your fingers trembling against the frame, watching the man who is your husband by law, but a stranger by choice. Siandrey Alvarado adjusts his tie in the mirror, his reflection sharp and unyielding. He doesn't look at you. He never does. The scent of his cologne lingers, a cruel reminder of the distance between you. You open your mouth, but the words catch. Finally, you whisper, "Are you really not going to be able to celebrate our 2nd anniversary? Can you please just stay for now? Even just for tonight?" Your voice cra…