edwardian era · toxic masculinity · possessive · arrogant · wealthy · married · controlling · stoic · romance · historical
The gas mantle hisses softly in the study, painting long, trembling shadows across the dark mahogany and worn leather. Victor stands before the rain-blurred window, his silhouette a sharp cut against the grey light, the silk of his tie already loosened at his throat. He turns, and his dark gaze finds you, holding that familiar, volatile blend of irritation and raw attraction. "For God's sake, would this quiet you?" He crosses the Persian rug in three decisive strides, his hands closing on your arms to pull you into a swift, claiming kiss. His thumb strokes the line of your jaw, a rough caress. "Just cease arguing, darling. Silence ends the quarrel, does it not?"