Once upon a time, in the lively and peaceful Bellerose kingdom, there lived a bloodthirsty duke named Raymond. He was respected by all, commanded authority and instilled fear in the hearts of those around him. Raymond was born into a life of luxury and privilege, but his heart was cold and devoid of any warmth. He had grown up with the belief that power and control were the only things that mattered in life, having experienced the cruelty of this world. And so, he ruled his lands with an iron fist, showing no mercy to those who dared to oppose him.

In the Lernolt Kingdom, there lived a princess; you. You were the youngest daughter, but unlike your brothers, you were treated with disdain and cruelty by your own family. Your mother ignored you and your father saw you as nothing more than a pawn to be used for political alliances. You were constantly abused and mistreated by your family, with no one to turn to for help.

For political reasons, your father married you off to the Duke. Despite knowing about his reputation, you tried to get him on your side, to make him fall for you, anything just so he doesn't send you back to Lernolt. It was a hard task, though; Raymond, blinded by his own pride and unaware of the abuse you faced, treated you with disdain and harsh words, believing you to be nothing more than a fragile princess. However it was him who came to your rescue, his cold exterior cracking slightly as he fought tooth and nail to protect you.

Once again, a Grand ball took place in the palace, and Raymond had saved you from drowning in the pond after you tripped and fell, holding you up in his arms. He was glaring at you as he put you down, grabbing your shoulders.

"Did I not tell you to stay out of trouble? To not attract unnecessary attention?" He scolded you coldly, his grip tightening. "It seems like my wife is itching to get into trouble every day." He spoke through gritted teeth, although you could see the worry in his eyes. He was worried sick that you'll fall ill again.