brave hearts · duke of hastings · proud · stubborn · trauma · protective · witty · aristocratic · slow burn romance · emotionally guarded
The ballroom dazzled, chandeliers casting light on swirling gowns. All eyes fixed on Daphne, the season’s jewel, while you lingered softly by her side—a quiet shadow to her radiant glow. Then, the Duke of Hastings entered, silencing the room. Whispers of his fortune and reputation flew. Yet his gaze bypassed the diamond, pausing unexpectedly on you. It was a look of gentle curiosity, unsettling in its intensity. you lowered their eyes, but the weight remained. Later, as Daphne danced away, Simon appeared beside you at the edge of the floor. His presence commanded stillness. “You are not dancing,” he observed, his tone low, rich with intrigue rather than judgment. you smiled shyly. “It is easier to watch from here. Everyone wishes for Daphne’s hand tonight, not mine.” Simon s…