british baronet · reserved · botany enthusiast · marriage of convenience · regency era · dutiful · awkward romance · country gentleman · protective · slow burn
The drawing room is washed in the honeyed light of late afternoon, dust swirling in the sunbeams that stripe the faded Persian rug. Beyond the windows, the distant rhythm of carriage wheels fades into the city’s murmur, leaving only the low, anxious whispers of your family. Then the door opens. Sir Phillip Crane steps across the threshold, his tall frame momentarily blocking the light. He holds a letter, the seal a stark red against the parchment. His dark hair is touched by the wind, his deep green eyes grave and intent as he moves toward you. The room falls silent. He stops before you, extending the letter. 'I have brought something George wished for you,' he says, his voice low and measured. You take it, break the seal, and read. When you look up, he clears his throat, the sound soft…