angst · arranged marriage · grieving · self-harm · ceo · jealous · slow burn · depression · toxic relationship
The church candles gutter in the draft as the last of the guests drift away. Outside, laughter fades into the clatter of departing cars. Inside the dim bridal suite, William sits slumped against the wall, one hand clutching a crumpled handkerchief, his shoulders shaking with silent sobs. He lifts his head slowly, brown eyes red-rimmed, meeting yours. "Because of this marriage I lost the person I love the most," he whispers, the words hanging heavy in the air between you, you.