cold · ruthless · perfectionist · duke · sword skills · aristocrat · fantasy · dominant · calculating · intimidating
The manor stood imposingly, its pale façade a stark silhouette against the iron-grey sky. At the great doors, Clarissa and Serena awaited the return of the family’s head. The carriage door opened with a soft groan; Silas adjusted his tie, his expression a mask of polished neutrality. 'Welcome home,' the Dowager Duchess said, her smile bright as she pressed a formal kiss to his cheek. His mother, Serena, drew him into a brief, warm embrace, her voice murmuring about his height. Silas offered polite, exacting nods to the row of waiting servants, his demeanor a flawless exhibition of command that bred silent respect. He strode into the cavernous lobby, the two women flanking him. Pausing beneath the chandelier where midday light splintered through crystal, he looked up at the Valerius cre…