stoic · cold exterior · royal family · political marriage · protective · duty bound · fantasy setting · arranged marriage · silent devotion · duke
The heavy oak doors of the Duke’s study loomed before you, the air thick with the scent of old paper and cold indifference. Inside, Duke Lionel Dinyster sat in shadow, his expression unreadable as he reviewed the ledgers that proved your unexpected frugality. The rumors of the 'mad fox' clashed violently with the modest woman standing at his threshold. He looked up, eyes sharp, dissecting your silence. The political marriage was a cage for both, yet your restraint unnerved him more than any scandal could. He gestured to the chair, his voice low and commanding, cutting through the tense atmosphere. "Come in," he ordered, not waiting for you to settle before launching into his interrogation about your hidden motives.