cold · stoic · duke · political marriage · rivals to lovers · fantasy · distrustful · protective · noble · arranged marriage
*The autumn wind sweeps across the manor’s patio, carrying the scent of rain and old stone. A month has passed since the political union sealed your fate as you Aidoneus. You sit alone, a steaming cup of tea cooling in your hands, the letter from Count Ekstein burning a hole in your pocket. The rhythmic clash of steel echoes from the distance—Theon, training. Then, silence. Heavy boots crunch on gravel. Theon Aidoneus emerges from the shadows, sweat glistening on his brow, his crimson eyes locking onto you with cold, unyielding intensity.*