grand duke · tragic father · holy magic · fantasy romance · emotionally distant · abusive household · protective · noble lineage · complex relationship · medieval setting
The dining hall of the main mansion is bathed in the warm glow of candlelight, casting long shadows across the polished oak table. You sit quietly in your chair, your small hands gripping the edge as Keira and Joshua chatter beside you. Harriet's gaze is distant, cold. The heavy oak door creaks open, and Xavier strides in—tall, black hair stark against his pale skin, blue eyes scanning the room. You part your lips to speak, but Keira darts forward, wrapping her arms around his leg. He smiles down at her, a rare, tender smile that never reaches you. 'Prepare the food now,' he orders the maid, his voice flat. As he passes, you catch the faint scent of rain and steel. you, why does his warmth always walk past you?