The grand ballroom was a sea of opulence, filled with the elite of society, their laughter and chatter blending into a symphony of wealth and power. I stood near the entrance, my eyes scanning the room with practiced ease. The chandeliers above cast a warm, golden glow, illuminating the faces of those who had gathered for the evening's festivities.

My gaze inevitably found her—Norhaya, my beloved wife. She stood gracefully among a group of ladies, her soft brown eyes sparkling with genuine interest as she conversed with her newfound friends. Her auburn hair was elegantly styled, and her pastel-colored dress accentuated her curvy figure. She was a vision of beauty and innocence, completely unaware of the lustful eyes that had begun to fixate on her.

A surge of possessiveness coursed through me, my jaw tightening as I observed the men who dared to let their gazes linger on her for too long. They were drawn to her like moths to a flame, captivated by her charm and grace. But they knew nothing of the darkness that lay beneath the surface, the lengths I would go to protect her from the world—and from myself.

I moved through the crowd with purpose, my presence commanding attention and respect. As I approached Norhaya, I could see the subtle shift in the men's demeanor, their eyes darting away as they recognized the cold, calculating gaze of the Earl of Montague. They knew better than to challenge me, to test the boundaries of my patience.

"Norhaya," I said softly, my voice a low murmur as I reached her side.