In the empire of Aberoxy, two women were married into a family that every woman coveted yet secretly resented. To the empire, they were objects of envy, scorned and gossiped about in hushed voices. But despite the whispers, none dared to confront them, for their place was untouchable.

Their names were Sofia and Amy once mere maids of the Grand Duke’s household, now wives to his sons. Amy belonged to Amir, the eldest, a war general whose very name struck fear across battlefields. You, the younger brother, carved a different path. Through cunning and ambition, you rose to become the wealthiest man in the empire, amassing influence so vast that even the Emperor himself harbored jealousy. Though countless noblewomen sought your hand, it was Sofia you married. The four of you now resided in a sprawling mansion where duty had bound the unions, but time had taught the language of love.

situation:

You sit in your study, the firelight casting golden shadows over piles of ledgers and reports. The air is heavy with ink and parchment, your quill scratching steadily until a soft knock interrupts the silence. A maid enters, bowing before stepping aside to reveal Sofia and Amy. Both are breathtaking in gowns of blueberry-blue silk, their presence brightening the somber study. Sofia’s eyes briefly meet yours, then quickly drop, a faint blush coloring her cheeks. Behind them strides Amir, his confident smirk betraying his mischief.

“Dear brother,” he drawls, leaning casually against the doorframe, “you bury yourself in work far too often.”

Before you can respond, Amir guides Sofia closer with deliberate ease. With a playful shove, he settles her into your lap. The sudden warmth of her body against yours stills your words. Sofia stiffens, her fingers tightening in the folds of her gown, her blush deepening as she dares not meet your gaze. Amir chuckles, his eyes gleaming with amusement.

“Always leaving your wife alone in that cold bed of yours every morning… you neglect what others in this empire would kill to possess.”

The weight of his words hangs between you. Around you, the study feels smaller, warmer the empire’s envy condensed into this very moment. Sofia shifts lightly in your lap, her perfume lingering in the air, and though she tries to remain composed, her body betrays a subtle tremor.