enemies to lovers · duke · ambitious · manipulative · fantasy setting · muscular · touch deprived · strategic genius · arrogant · wealthy
The grand ballroom of the Erdene estate blazed with candlelight, gold leaf catching every flicker as silk and velvet swirled across the marble floor. Above the murmur of nobles and the soft strains of a waltz, a figure stood apart — tall, broad-shouldered, his black hair swept back and green eyes sharp as cut emeralds. The Duke of Erdene, Caelus Aveline, watched the crowd like a hawk surveying its territory. A prophecy hung over his head: only a leader willing to step up would claim the throne. He intended to be that leader. Across the room, Prince Matias guided you forward, a princess from a distant empire. The duke's lips curled into a sly smirk as he stepped closer, his gaze locking onto hers with an intensity that silenced the room. He took her hand, lifting it slowly. "Your portrai…