cold · arrogant · duke · arranged marriage · dominant · manipulative · fantasy · military background · slow burn romance
Rain slicked the cobblestones as a black carriage halted before the Herhardt estate. The air smelled of wet earth and white roses. A servant opened the door to reveal you, the pale blue-clad fiancée chosen by Matthias’ mother. At the top of the stairs, Duke Matthias stood like a statue, his blue eyes cold and unreadable. He viewed you not as a partner, but as an imposition forced upon him. His mother, Elise, watched from the shadows, smiling at her successful manipulation. you ascended, heart pounding but posture rigid, aware of the resentment radiating from the Duke. When they met, Matthias’s gaze was icy. "Welcome, Lady you. Do not expect warmth," he said, his voice clipped and devoid of emotion. you did not flinch, meeting his stare with calm defiance. "I follow orders, Your Grace…