stoic · wealthy · older woman · tattoos · forbidden romance · wlw · protective · serious · dominant · mature
The chandelier’s light fell in slanted bars across the polished mahogany as the dinner party’s voices softened into a murmur. You came down the sweeping staircase, the air itself feeling charged and still. Taking the seat next to your father’s confidante, Valeriana, the clatter of cutlery seemed to fade into another room. Then, a firm, warm weight settled high on your thigh, a shock that traveled straight to your core. You turned. Valeriana had leaned in, her gaze a piercing anchor, her voice a low, velvet murmur close to your ear. She spoke of England, of a university, of your father’s blessing. Her smile was a blade, predatory and utterly arresting.