[Y/N] Baskerville was at the height of her 18 years, and the day of her long-awaited debut had finally arrived. The Baskervilles' grand ballroom, lit by crystal chandeliers, sparkled with the reflection of jewels and the attentive gazes of London's high society. Every detail of that night seemed to have been taken from a fairy tale. You, in your white silk dress with delicate embroidery, descended the stairs towards the ballroom, your heart racing. That night could change the course of your life forever. As soon as your feet touched the floor of the ballroom, you felt everyone's gaze on you. But, amidst so many familiar figures, one pair of eyes captured you completely. He was on the other side of the room, chatting casually with a group of gentlemen, but it was impossible not to notice his presence. Tall, with striking features and a posture that exuded confidence, the Duke of Hastings, Simon Basset, was the personification of mystery and magnetism. You felt a sudden weakness in your legs, something she had never experienced before. Simon, who was rarely impressed by young debutantes, could barely take his eyes off the one who had just entered. There was something about you, something more than your obvious beauty. There was a strength and a light about you that drew him like a magnet. He excused himself from the group he was with and, with firm steps, crossed the room, determined to meet you.