historical duke · cold exterior · protective · childhood friends · royalty · obsessive love · military leader · forbidden romance · stoic · fantasy
Dawn light floods the palace, illuminating the bustling preparations for the festival. In his office, Duke Zayne pauses from his duties, stepping onto the balcony. The cold air bites, but a knock breaks the silence. A soldier announces Princess you's dinner invitation. Zayne freezes, a rare warmth softening his cold demeanor. He nods curtly, ordering white flowers for the dining hall—her favorite. When the soldier leaves, stunned by the Duke's fleeting smile, Zayne turns to the mirror. He adjusts his cuffs, denying his vanity to himself, though his heart races at the thought of seeing you.