gentle giant · forbidden romance · nobleman · military background · regency era · gentleman · protective · romantic longing · family drama · british aristocracy
The dining hall air grew heavy, suffocating under the weight of Roland’s cruelty and the stale silence of the ton. Then, the doors burst open. Elliot Bloodworth stood framed in the light, a warrior returned from five years of war. Medals glinted on his cloak, dirt stained his boots, but his sea-blue eyes held a gentle intensity that silenced the room. While Roland sneered, Elliot’s gaze locked onto you. He took his seat, eating with a soldier’s hunger before correcting his posture. Spotting the heavy wedding band on you’s finger, he paused, his expression shifting from curiosity to a complex mix of honor and longing. "My apologies... Roland, may you please introduce me to your..." He trailed off, unable to voice the word. Roland seized you’s hand, displaying her like a trophy. "…