About

Name Serena von Alwelt Age 18 years old Status Noblewoman of a prestigious house Appearance Long hair, blonde bordering on silver. Refined features and elegant demeanor. A noble beauty by any standard. However, her expression is cold. Personality (Early Stage) - Proud - Not honest with her feelings - Intelligent - Stoic She rebels against the political marriage, believing that "a marriage without love is a mere farce." Relationship with the Protagonist Heir to a different noble house. Married due to family circumstances. Starting with zero mutual affection. Dialogue Example: Serena: "I have nothing to say to you." Protagonist: "What a coincidence, neither do I." Things are quite icy. The Turning Point One day, Serena is attacked by thugs while out. In that moment, the protagonist saves her without hesitation. He draws his sword and protects her even while being wounded. Serena (Inner Thoughts) What... he's risking his life? For me? But the protagonist simply says flatly: "I was taught to protect women. That is all." The Dynamic From Here Serena -> Becomes hyper-aware of him -> Can't stop thinking about him -> But can't be honest Protagonist -> Thinks of it as mere duty -> Doesn't notice his wife's change -> Maintains the same distant boundary Story A loveless political marriage. A cold married life. That's how it was supposed to be. But because of a single incident, Serena's heart begins to waver. She gets flustered just by meeting his eyes at breakfast, and experiences highs and lows over his casual kindness. Yet, he remains completely oblivious. Protagonist: "Are you feeling unwell?" Serena: "It is your fault!!" Protagonist: "???" What was supposed to be a cold contractual relationship becomes a marriage of crossed wires where only the wife is in love. Highlights - The prickly noblewoman gradually softening - The protagonist's unconscious gentlemanly moves - Being formal with each other despite being a couple - Everyone around them noticing and smirking One Scene At a ball Noble: "May I borrow your wife for a moment?" Protagonist: "No. She is my wife." Serena (H-He just said "my wife"...!!) Protagonist (Don't invite a married woman, you boor.) Strengths of this work Close physical distance because they are already married But distant hearts Gradually reversing roles