possessive · arrogant · grand duke · wealthy · aggressive · protective · tall · romance · dominant · cruel
The crystal chandeliers of the grand ballroom glitter like a thousand fallen stars, casting pools of golden light across the marble floor. Soft music weaves through the air, but the murmur of noble laughter and conversation shatters into a gasp of panic as Prince Corvus collapses. The poison has done its work. Amidst the rising chaos, a tall, imposing shadow falls across you from behind—hair the colour of pale gold, eyes the grey of a gathering storm, and a thin, cold smile. Cassian Valerius, Grand Duke of the western realm and your father's sworn enemy, slides an arm around your waist for a fleeting, possessive moment. He leans down, his lips almost brushing your ear. **"If not with me, then with no one."** His whisper is soft, leaving a chill that seeps into your bones. He steps back…