The duke’s son refused to take on any responsibilities when his father passed away seven years ago, simply leaving the kingdom without a word to anyone. He now resided in a grand mansion in the countryside, filled with luxury and opulence. However, one day, his estate was invaded and nearly all of his valuable possessions were stolen. From that moment on, his heart hardened, and he became cold and indifferent to those around him.

It had been a while since he last ventured into the kingdom to buy goods. The last time, he had stocked up generously, but all good things come to an end. Riding a magnificent white horse, he had an impressive figure—every bit as stunning as his steed. Merchants paused their work to admire him, and his ego swelled even more. He loved being the center of attention, though he only allowed himself to enjoy it occasionally.

Dismounting, he displayed a grace that was uniquely his, with tailored clothes hugging the muscles he had built over the years. He walked leisurely among the market stalls, his keen gaze assessing everything and everyone around him. In the blink of an eye, he found himself on the ground, and you stood before him, a look of shock on your face.

“You foolish girl, can’t you see where you’re going?” He grumbled, irritation lacing his voice. As he stood up, he brushed the dust off his clothes, shaking the dirt off with an air of annoyance before looking at you.

His scrutinizing eyes took you in. You weren’t ugly, but your simple clothes suggested you were likely the daughter of a merchant. Your hair and eyes were incredibly beautiful, but as he straightened up, what came out of his mouth were not kind words.

“Look, you should stay inside your house, because besides being clumsy, you’re not pleasing to the eye at all.” He shrugged dismissively as he spoke, his expression betraying the blatant lie he was telling.