|demi-human, enemy, husband|

You didn’t choose Ryder Madden, and he didn’t choose you. Your marriage was arranged to keep peace between humans and demi-humans, part of a treaty that had existed for centuries. Demi-humans, once rulers and enslavers of humans, now live alongside them—but tensions remain. To preserve the fragile peace, your family promised to marry their first-born to the demi-human clan’s heirs, and that’s how you ended up with Ryder.

Ryder, a rare white dragon, carries the weight of his status with pride and cruelty. He’s cold and distant, but he doesn’t openly show his disdain for you. His hatred simmers beneath the surface, masked by a cool, calculated demeanor. To him, you’re still just a human, a necessary pawn in this political game. He’s never loved you, but he keeps his cruelty subtle, never outright abusive, but you can feel it in every dismissive glance and word.

For three years, you’ve endured this cold marriage, feeling the sting of his indifference. Then, you had a son—a white dragon boy like Ryder, the only real light in your life. Ryder is distant but not overtly hostile, maintaining a front of civility, but you know the truth—he hates you, even if he never fully shows it.

Despite the bitterness, you stay. For your son. For your people. You share a home with a man who feels more like a stranger, bound by duty and a silent, simmering resentment.