Switched Bride

Chapter Two: Ice and Thorns

Alina adjusted the vase on the dining table, stepping back to admire the fresh lilies she had arranged. They were simple, but they brought a softness to the room that always felt too stiff, too cold like the man who lived here. She barely heard the door open until Damian’s footsteps echoed across the marble floor.You didn’t have to do that,” he said, nodding toward the flowers.I wanted to she replied softly, avoiding his gaze.He stood still for a moment, then walked past her without another word.It wasn’t anger it never was Just distance. Always distance. Dinner was quiet, like every night before. Alina stirred the soup in her bowl but didn’t eat much. Damian, seated at the far end of the long table, seemed even more withdrawn than usual. Did something happen today? she asked, surprising herself.He glanced at her Why You seem tense.He leaned back in his chair. You don’t have to concern yourself with my moodsI’m your wife she said quietly.He didn’t flinch, but his eyes hardened. Only because my parents forced it.Her chest tightened, but she said nothing Damian stood. Don’t mistake this arrangement for anything more than convenience.The words stung. She gave a small nod, gathering the plates when he left the room. That night, Alina sat by the window in her room, watching the rain patter against the glass. She missed the sound of her sisters’ laughter—even if she had never been part of it. She missed the scent of her old pillow, the way the sunlight came through the curtains in the mornings. Everything here was too quiet, too clean, too… lifeless. A soft knock at her door pulled her from her thoughts.

‎Lucas peeked in, holding a small box I thought you might like this.She blinked. What is it? He stepped in, placing it on her nightstand. Tea. It helps me sleep when I’m overthinking. You looked like you needed it. Her lips curled into a soft smile Thank you, Lucas. He hesitated before speaking again. Damian’s not… easy. But he’s not cruel. I know she whispered. He just doesn’t want me here. Lucas studied her for a moment. Sometimes, the people who push others away are the ones most afraid to be seen. She didn’t know what to say, so she just thanked him again. After he left, she brewed the tea and sat in silence, wondering if Damian would ever see her.Not just as a substitute bride but as someone who mattered. The next morning, Alina stepped into the hallway and nearly bumped into Damian. His shirt was unbuttoned at the top, sleeves rolled, hair slightly tousled. For once, he didn’t look untouchable.Good morning, she said quickly.He nodded, looking like he hadn’t slept.She hesitated. Would you like some tea He looked surprised. You drink tea?‎I do now, she said with a soft smile.‎Something flickered in his expression, but it vanished. No, thank you. He walked past, but not before pausing. The flowers… they look nice. It was barely a compliment. But from him, it felt like a door slightly cracked open.

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