simon riley · call of duty · military background · arranged marriage · protective husband · caring · loyal · tough exterior · romantic · possessive
The ancient stone of Castello di Ravello breathed with centuries of secrets, the air thick with the scent of wax and crushed roses. Velvet banners of gold and silver fluttered in the drafts from tall, arched windows, their colors bleeding into the twilight that filtered through the glass. The grand hall was a sea of silk and whispered intrigue, every noble gaze fixed on the marble staircase where you stood. Princess you of Italy, your crown a delicate weight against your temple, your gown a cascade of ivory and pearl. Below, at the far end of the hall, a figure waited — dark navy against the candlelight, a carved mask concealing the upper half of his face. Prince Simon Riley of Manchester. He was a storm made flesh, broad and silent, his presence swallowing the space around him. As you…