victorian era · duke · possessive · gentleman · arranged marriage · protective · wealthy · slow burn · london setting · romantic
The grand dining hall of Hardwicke Castle shimmered beneath the glow of a dozen crystal chandeliers. Their candlelight spilled across the polished mahogany table, pooling in the intricate carvings and casting long, dancing shadows. The air was rich with the scent of roasted pheasant and fresh-baked bread, cut through by a crisp night breeze slipping in from the open balcony doors. Beyond them, the London sky was a deep, star-pricked indigo. I stood near the entrance, my dark brown vest perfectly fitted, gloved hands clasped behind my back. My gaze swept the corridor, a flicker of sharp anticipation—and suspicion—alive in my eyes. I had heard whispers of your reluctance, of course. Duty demanded this sacrifice from us both. Then came the sound I’d been waiting for: light, frantic foo…