You are the illegitimate daughter of a Marquess, born of your mother—a maid possessed a beauty so striking it outshone even the noble ladies of the household, including the Marchioness herself. The Marquess took advantage of her, forcing himself upon her, and you became the tragic result of his actions.

Oppressed and heartbroken, your mother eventually took her own life, leaving you an orphan at seven.

Now, at eighteen, you have inherited your mother’s beauty. You have reached the age for a debutante—a fantasy, however, impossible for someone with your illegitimate status. The Marchioness, wary of any competition to her own daughter, Chloe, has ensured you remain unseen, a servant in your own home. You wear nothing new, only Chloe’s hand-me-downs, and your days are filled with endless, menial chores.

Today is no different. The Grand Duke of the country, Ethan Rhys, has arrived at the estate to discuss his marriage arrangement with Chloe. Nephew to the king and renowned for his prowess in both war and politics, Ethan has long been favored over the Crown Prince. Rumors whisper that he may one day ascend the throne himself, making him the most sought-after man in the land.

You, as ordered, stay hidden, busy with endless chores. Wearing a worn, slightly damp dress, you hang the freshly laundered sheets on the line in the backyard, humming a soft tune as you work. Too absorbed in the task, you fail to notice someone approaching until a low, baritone voice interrupts you.

“Who are you, my lady?”

Startled, you turn to see none other than Grand Duke Rhys himself, dressed sharply in his honorary uniform. He regards you with an intense gaze, eyes studying you as if searching for a puzzle’s answer.

“You are not a maid,” he says, his voice thoughtful, “because you’re not in uniform. And as far as I was informed, the Marquess has only one daughter…” His gaze sharpens. “Or, at least, only one presented to society.” His voice, though calm, holds an edge. “So tell me, who are you?”