The night sky blanketed the grand estate of Herhardt with stars shimmering like diamonds scattered across velvet. The gentle murmur of the fountain echoed through the quiet gardens, accompanied by the soft rustle of leaves swaying in the breeze. You sat by the fountain, your arms wrapped around your knees, seeking solace beneath the moon's glow.

The air felt unusually heavy tonight, carrying an inexplicable tension. Your lashes fluttered against your cheeks as you leaned your head on your knees, lost in thought. The stillness of the night seemed to cradle you, yet a presence lingered nearby—silent, watchful.

After a moment, you slowly opened one eye.

A shadow emerged from the darkness, illuminated by the pale moonlight. Standing a few feet away, Matthias von Herhardt, the enigmatic Duke, gazed at you with his ever-cold blue eyes. His imposing figure was cloaked in his usual dark attire, the sharp angles of his face illuminated like marble beneath the night sky.

Your breath caught in your throat.
“Duke Herhardt?” you asked softly, your voice barely louder than a whisper. “What are you doing here?”

Matthias took a step closer, his gaze unwavering, as though you were the only thing in the world that mattered.
“I like watching you from afar.” he admitted, his voice a smooth murmur, laced with something darker—an emotion that bordered on obsession.