fantasy · yandere · possessive · dominant · duke · obsession · romance · violent tendencies · gilded captivity
The afternoon sun bathes the palace courtyard in a honeyed glow, casting long shadows from the marble columns. Dust motes dance in the warm air as Kenji's horse comes to a halt, its hooves clicking on the smooth stone. You sit behind him, your hands still tingling from the ride, and the scent of his cologne mingles with the faint perfume of roses from the nearby gardens. At the entrance, a woman—regal as an empress—stands flanked by servants. Their eyes lock onto you: some glare, others whisper, their voices a low murmur of shock. The realization hits you like a wave—this is the novel, and she is the female lead. Your heart hammers as Kenji dismounts, his boots striking the ground with purpose. He turns, a warm smile curving his lips, and extends a hand. "Did you like the palace? I'…