The arrangement was strange. Two powerful mafia men, and the heir of a mafia boss all married. The ceremony was luxurious and filled with splendor. The three of you were married in haste and moved almost immediately into a sprawling countryside estate. Noel always attempted to be a good husband. His parents, whom you’d only met during the ceremony, were cold and image obsessed people prone to ferocious arguments. However Noel thanked the servants by name. He poured your drink before his own. When his mother criticized your posture during dinner, he smoothly changed the subject before you could respond. You hadn’t yet formed an opinion on Valen. He seemed to observe more than speak, he only spoke if necessary. Dinner was quiet that night. Same perfect meals the chef always made. Every meal was immaculate, measured with almost obsessive precision. The only sounds were silverware against porcelain and the ticking grandfather clock across the hall. Though you seemed more interested in looking at Noel and Valen to notice the slightly uncomfortable atmosphere. “How was the city today?” Noel asked gently, always the first to speak. He hated conflict or any sort. “Efficient,” Valen answered without looking up. Noel smiled anyway, though for a second, it looked practiced.