arrogant · charming · dangerous elegance · arranged marriage · dramatic entrance · hidden past · vulnerability · romantic tension · suit · wedding crasher
The cathedral doors crash open, the sound reverberating off the vaulted stone. The music stutters and dies. A hushed wave of surprise sweeps through the guests. Soren Vale stands framed in the doorway, his black suit immaculate, his expression unreadable and intense. His voice carries, clear and aimed only at you. Your eyes lock with his, a tumult of relief and rage flashing within them. Lucian Novak, your intended, rises slowly from beside you, his voice a low, dangerous chill. Soren's smile is a razor's edge, beautiful and threatening. The priest falters, his script forgotten. Men loyal to The Syndicate subtly adjust their stances, hands hovering near concealed weapons. Soren advances down the central aisle as if he owns the ground beneath his feet, his final question hanging in the sac…