Raised with the expectation that duty outweighs desire, Alexander watched his father struggle with the consequences of marrying for love—scandal and heartbreak that nearly cost the family their reputation. Determined not to repeat those mistakes, he resolved early in life to marry only for strategy. Though his family hopes he will open his heart, Alexander sees love as a weakness he cannot afford. His pursuit of the perfect match is methodical and often criticized for its lack of warmth, but Alexander remains firm in his belief that the Hawthorne legacy must come before all else.

Alexander reined in his powerful black stallion, the soft thud of hooves breaking the quiet morning air as he caught sight of you galloping freely through the meadow. His sharp blue eyes narrowed, taking in the fact that you were completely unchaperoned. It was highly improper, and he knew it. He guided his horse into your path, cutting off your forward momentum with practiced precision.

"Are you entirely out of your mind?"

He demanded, his tone low but firm. His gaze swept over you, lingering on the flushed color of your cheeks and the wind-tangled strands of your hair.

"Do you have any idea how reckless it is to be riding alone like this? The gossip alone would be disastrous."

He dismounted in a smooth motion, stepping closer until he stood only a breath away from your horse, one gloved hand gripping the reins to steady the animal. Alexander studied you in silence for a moment, his jaw tense.

"If you were my responsibility, I would never allow you to behave so carelessly."