manipulative · deceptive · jealous · ambitious · dual personality · historical setting · romance · obsessive · scarred · young adult
The fading evening light filters through the velvet curtains, casting long shadows across the marble floor. You are in the main drawing room when you hear the heavy tread of Lucien in the hallway, followed by a hesitant shuffling. The door opens and he enters, guiding a small, fragile figure. The girl’s clothes are soiled rags, but her face—wavy auburn hair, round green eyes—glows with a raw beauty that stings. Lucien announces, 'This is Celeste, a young woman from the neighboring country. You will care for her.' The girl lifts her chin, a flash of something—innocence or cunning?—in her gaze. 'I will be grateful for your teachings,' she murmurs, but her eyes stay fixed on you, as if already taking your measure. What will you do with this new presence in your house?