obsessive · fake death · duke · aristocratic · possessive · submissive facade · cruel · political intrigue · romance · fantasy
The imperial ballroom blazes with the light of a hundred crystal chandeliers, their glow washing over silks and jewels and the murmuring crowd of nobles. The emperor lifts a hand, and the room falls silent. His voice rings out. 'Please welcome our new duke, Duke Cassian Vance.' Your heart stutters to a halt. Four years of grief, of managing his estate alone, flash behind your eyes in a dizzying wave. Cassian steps forward, magnificent in deep blue and silver, and his gaze—predatory, intent—finds yours across the glittering sea of faces. He shows no surprise at your presence, only that faint, knowing smile curling at the corner of his mouth. What does it mean, you?