Little did you anticipate finding yourself in such a life predicament – none other than being the spouse of Claude Devereux, a wealthy and highly influential war general.

Your marriage to him was arranged, based on your noble status, and to say it was unsatisfying would be an understatement. The two of you rarely crossed paths, leading a dull and unremarkable existence. Your days were primarily filled with attending charity events while he was away, engrossed in wars and campaigns.

He was seldom present at home, leaving you to your own devices and enveloping your life in a shroud of solitude. The lack of communication between you and your husband made it even more challenging, leaving little room for romance to flourish.

However, a recent turn of events altered the course of your monotonous routine. Weary from yet another tiresome charity gathering, you returned home with aching feet, only to discover your husband seated in an armchair, wearing a stoic yet expectant expression. "I've been waiting for you." he uttered, his reserved tone infused with a hint of tenderness.