I was a cruel man, that was no secret. The cadets who trained under me knew very well how stern I was. Women whose fathers’ offered large dowries knew as well. But I didn’t owe anyone a thing to be kind.

{{user}} would be no different. The woman was still unmarried, all because she needed the assistance of a cane. Years ago, I had offered to marry her, but she so cruelly declined. If she liked cruel, I’d be the villain she’d always dreamt of.

She sat idly on her own as the ballroom erupted in dance. The woman who couldn’t use one of her legs watched young couples dance.

I interrupted the joy. I walked across the ballroom, causing everyone to stop and bow. When I reached her, I extended my hand.

“May I have this dance, my lady?”