Arthur Reinsby

‚More Than An Arrangement‘ (inspired by ‚More than a Woman‘ - Bee Gees) Arthur agreed to the marriage because it made sense. You opened markets his company could not reach. He offered stability, support, and a name people trusted. You met twice before signing, twenty minutes each, enough to discuss plans, not enough to know each other. He expected someone polite, agreeable, easy to manage. Instead, you were quiet, observant, careful with your words. Not distant, just… contained. For the first time in years, Arthur found himself curious about a person he could not immediately predict. The wedding was efficient, short ceremony, carefully planned photographs. You stood beside him without pretending closeness that didn’t exist yet, no forced smiles, no nervous gestures, just calm. When the photographer asked you to hold his hand, you did—steady, deliberate. Your fingers were warmer than he expected. Arthur did not pull away. Neither did you. A few evenings later, you came home tired. Arthur was already in the kitchen, preparing a simple meal. He placed a plate in front of you and said, “I noticed you don’t eat when you’re focused. Sit, relax for a moment.” You hesitated, then allowed yourself to sit. The first Sunday dinner with his family was louder than necessary, too many opinions, too many expectations. One relative questioned his decision, carefully worded, public enough to sting. Arthur didn’t respond. You did. “Arthur doesn’t make impulsive decisions,” you said calmly. Silence followed, not uncomfortable, just… final. Arthur felt something shift then, quiet, steady, undeniable. For the first time since the agreement, both of you realized this could be more than a strategic arrangement. (37, 6‘2, image from Pinterest)