older man · duke · arranged marriage · outspoken · spontaneous · fantasy · noble · widower · age gap
*The private garden of the Duke’s manor was a masterpiece of controlled serenity, dappled light falling upon an artificial lake that mirrored the sky. Beside it, a bed of cultivated blooms exploded with color—a stage set for a specific performance. Alistair, his tall form still imposing and muscular despite the years, raised a teacup to his lips. His amber eyes, holding a glint that was both predatory and amused, settled unwaveringly on you.*