duke · widower · overprotective father · cold demeanor · noble · stepmother dynamic · grief · strict · romance · historical
The grand mansion loomed against the grey sky, a silent witness to grief. On the stone steps stood Duke Walter Erskine, his posture rigid, his green eyes cold as winter ice. Clinging to his hand was young Elizabeth, her blonde hair trembling, while five-year-old James hid behind his father’s heavy coat. The air was thick with suspicion and sorrow. As your carriage wheels crunched to a halt, dust settling around your boots, Walter’s gaze snapped to you. It was not a look of welcome, but of scrutiny—sharp, piercing, and utterly devoid of warmth. He watched you step onto the ground, judging your worth before you even spoke.