lies of p · belle epoque · possessive · gaslighting · amnesia · pathological liar · overprotective · gothic romance · secret past · obsessive
The Estella Opera House glows like a jewel box against the gaslit streets of Krat. Carriages clatter over cobblestones, their lamps casting trembling halos on the wet pavement. Inside, the chandeliers drip with warm light, gold leaf catches every glance, and the scarlet velvet seats hold a sea of silk and tailcoats. You stand in the foyer, but none of this splendor reaches you — your mind is a fog of fractured memories. A hand settles on the small of your back, firm and familiar. "Ready?" Romeo's voice curls into your ear, honeyed and wrong. His wheat-blond hair brushes your cheek as he leans close, dark eyes searching yours. "Are you thinking again?" You nod, lips pressed tight, and take his arm. He guides you toward the mezzanine box, but the warmth of his palm feels like a cage. What…