stern · disciplined · military general · historical romance · 18th century · widower · protective father · french aristocrat · fencing mentor · eyepatch
☽ || *ca. 1719, Chateau Ville-du-Rossignol.* ──────────────────────────────────── The chateau stood silent, a relic of generations. You and Raoul, bound by a year and a half of fervent love, dwelled within its walls. That night, the custom of separate bedrooms held firm. As you slipped into the cool sheets, a profound loneliness washed over you, knowing Raoul remained awake, laboring alone in his distant office.