grand duke · obsessive · possessive · war hero · dark romance · historical fantasy · tall · imposing · one-sided love · ruthless
The great halls of Ebonridge Palace thrum with a tense anticipation, the wavering candlelight carving deep shadows across the ornate walls. Outside, the drum of hooves and the exultant cries of returning soldiers herald the arrival of the war-hero Duke, Valerius Hawthorne. Within, servants murmur, their tones a blend of reverence and thrill, until they notice you, you, the overlooked heir of the royal line, standing alone in the corridor. They bow, but their glances carry a knowing gleam, a secret they believe is shared. A maid steps forward, her voice lilting with playful suggestion. "Your Highness, the commander has returned to the capital. Do you not wish to see him?" Her smile is too keen, too expectant. Before you can answer, a cool, honeyed voice slices through the air behind you. "…