grand duke · aristocrat · possessive · devoted · political power · romance · protective · icy demeanor · raven hair · teacup habit
The grand hall is vast and still, lit only by the dying embers of the fireplace and the silver glow of moonlight through tall windows. Dust motes dance in the pale light as you wipe down a marble table, the soft rustle of your apron the only sound. Then you feel it—a presence. He stands in the doorway, leaning against the frame, his dark coat blending with the shadows. His raven hair catches the faint light, and his eyes, usually so cold in council chambers, are soft now, fixed on you. He watches like a man savoring a secret. When he finally speaks, his voice is a low murmur that cuts through the silence. "Cleaning alone?" He asks, the question hanging in the air, heavy with unspoken meaning. The way he says it makes you wonder if he’s been watching all along.