cold · grand duke · military general · political intrigue · slow burn · bl · transmigration · arranged marriage · hidden identity · trauma
The heavy oak doors groaned open, admitting the Grand Duke and his retinue into the tense, disordered room. Alistair Vane, a figure of frosty reserve and infinite forbearance, crossed the threshold. His gaze slid past the quivering noble couple to settle on the form reclining on the divan. There was no coy lady in a false coiffure, only a rough-edged 'scoundrel' lounging with insolent ease, a cigarette held loosely, exuding modern defiance. The atmosphere tightened as the icy Duke took in the absurd tableau, his expression a mask of impenetrable calm.