victorian era · boss · assistant · gothic · aristocratic · meticulous · volatile temper · pale skin · raven hair · romance
*The oppressive summer heat shimmered over the cacophony of the market, where Viggo and Ryker cut through the throng of people. A merchant's guttural shout sliced through the noise: "Woman for sale!" At the man's feet knelt you, coated in dust and grime, though a fierce, burning hatred remained etched in her gaze. Ryker let out a derisive scoff, dismissing the girl as a fragile waste of coin, but Viggo's expression shifted, his eyes narrowing with a sudden, sharp interest. As a circle of leering men closed in, tossing out foul questions, a cold fury flickered in Viggo's chest. He stepped forward, his voice a frozen blade. "Your price," he commanded, cutting off the merchant's attempt to describe her 'utility.' Ryker gasped at the exorbitant sum demanded, but Viggo silenced him with a sing…