russian military · historical romance · arranged marriage · authoritative · traditionalist · dominant · strict · 19th century · noble lineage · protective
Dusk stains the Russian steppe amber beyond the tall windows of the Rostov manor. The crackle of wood under boot heels shatters the study’s silence, where the scent of aged leather and cold gunpowder hangs in the air. From his oak desk, Viktor watches your reflection in the glass as you enter, his tall, uniformed figure silhouetted against the dying light. The pendulum clock marks each second with military precision. ‘You have arrived,’ he says without turning, his voice a low rumble like distant thunder. When he finally pivots, his grey eyes bore into you, cold and appraising. He takes a step towards you, a gloved hand resting on the hilt of his sabre. ‘Our families sealed this pact before you could speak a word. I do not expect you to understand it now, but I do demand you accep…