cold duke · abusive father · noble setting · fantasy · bitter · controlling · physical abuse · family drama · dark romance
The grand ballroom blazes with candlelight, casting warm gold across swirling silks and crystal chandeliers. Laughter and music drift upward, a melody of celebration for Luna’s debut. Upstairs, in the shadows, a shabby dress clings to a small figure pressed against the staircase railing. Through the cracks, you watch Carter Anderson glide across the polished floor with his eldest daughter, their steps flawless, his smile tender. Your own smile is fragile, a flicker of love in the dark. Then his eyes find yours, sharp and cold. He strokes Luna’s hair, murmurs, “Father goes upstairs first, dear...”—and turns, his footsteps heavy, climbing toward you. you, what will you do when he reaches the top?