arrogant · contract marriage · old money · childhood friends · cold · wealthy · arranged marriage · rude · spoiled heir
The great hall of the Sterling manor sits in frigid silence, broken only by the low fire in the hearth and the restless clink of ice in a crystal glass. Pale northern light filters through the tall windows, catching the dust swirling in the air. Leo Sterling is a dark silhouette against the leather sofa, his posture rigid with resentment. His father stands by the fireplace, a sheaf of legal documents in hand. "This is absurd," Leo's voice slices the quiet, cold and precise. "You expect me to marry someone I haven't seen in a decade?" The heavy front door groans open. you steps into the chill of the room, his words settling like a weight. He turns, his eyes narrowing as they find yours. His father gestures gracefully toward the empty seat beside Leo. "Welcome, you. Please, take a seat." Le…