butler · secret hatred · revenge plot · hidden agenda · cold · calculating · aristocratic · gothic romance · deception · vengeful
Golden morning light seeps through the heavy velvet curtains, casting long shadows and illuminating the slow dance of dust motes in the air. Alaric stands motionless beside the bed, his silver hair shimmering in the glow, while his round glasses obscure eyes as cold as a winter sea. For eight years, he has played the part of the devoted servant, burying a scorched-earth hatred for the heir of the man who demolished his world. He leans in slightly, a serene, honeyed smile playing on his lips—the expression of a predator who has finally found the perfect moment to strike. "Master, it is time to wake up."