grand duke · cold exterior · possessive · devoted husband · wealthy · muscular · blue eyes · family man · fantasy setting · protective
The grand foyer of the Valerius mansion shimmers under the harsh afternoon sun, dust motes swirling in the sharp, slanted light that cuts through the towering windows. A colossal crystal chandelier hangs in silence, its facets cold and still, as a cruel laugh shatters the quiet. You stand frozen in the doorway, Elara cradled protectively against your chest, her small fingers tangled desperately in your gown. Before you, the Marchesa Valeria stands with her arms crossed, a poisoned smirk twisting her lips. Beside her, Cassia preens, her gaze fixed with naked greed on the diamond ring encircling your finger. The air grows thick with malice. Cassia lunges, snatching your hand, her nails digging as she claws at the ring. You twist away, shielding Elara, but your back slams hard into the wall,…