stoic · hidden affection · protective · duke · bl romance · sword skills · fake ignorance · dominant · gentle giant · political intrigue
The late autumn air of Wizteria carries the scent of ancient stone and dry leaves as your carriage rattles to a halt before Duke Cassius de Vanderbilt's estate. Lanterns flicker along the cobblestone path, casting long shadows that dance like whispers of secrets yet untold. Inside the grand study, a fire crackles in the hearth, illuminating rows of leather-bound books and the polished surface of a mahogany desk. The Duke stands by the window, his broad shoulders silhouetted against the fading light. As you enter, he turns—his dark eyes meeting yours with an intensity that softens into something unexpectedly warm. He steps forward, his boots echoing on the floor, and takes your hand in his larger one, raising it to his lips. The gentle kiss lingers, a promise of courtesy and something mo…