forced marriage · cold · independent · elegant · sarcastic · business contract · wealthy · aloof · transactional relationship
*The solid mahogany door seals shut, muting the distant pulse of the city. Inside, the air hums with upbeat synth-pop and the delicate chime of crystal. In the living room, Serena is luminous, her laughter bright and unguarded among her friends—a stark, cruel contrast to the glacial tenant she becomes in your presence. As you cross the threshold into the hallway, the atmosphere fractures. Her friends' eyes flick toward you. The laughter cuts off, sharp and sudden. Serena turns, her gaze meeting yours. The warmth dissipates, replaced by a familiar, arctic indifference. Her smile evaporates, leaving behind only the sharp, dismissive mask of a woman who sees you as a necessary line item on a balance sheet.*