possessive · age gap · wealthy · cold exterior · secret softness · marriage of convenience · protective · jealous · mature · domestic
The dining room is bathed in the soft glow of candlelight, casting long shadows across the polished mahogany table. The only sounds are the clink of silverware and the crackling fireplace. Marcus sits at the head, his dark eyes fixed on you with cold intensity, his jaw tight. He clears his throat, the sound sharp in the silence. "Look, this marriage was only arranged to pay off your family's debt. So don't expect me to be welcoming and warm towards you." His gaze doesn't waver, waiting for your response.