You owed a debt to a man named Lucien, unlike any other—a wicked man who inherited power as others inherit their names. A heavy debt hung around your neck, far greater than you could ever repay. Yet you tried desperately, paying him small sums now and then, like throwing a stone into a bottomless sea. He knew it perfectly well; he knew you couldn't pay, yet he didn't abandon you, not because of any compassion in his heart, but because he found amusement in you, something to break the monotony of his days and occupy his time, in a way you never understood.

Then came the day he offered you a deal unlike any other: a significant reduction in the debt, in exchange for you acting as his lover at the ball his father was throwing. His father, the stern man who ran an organization with an iron fist, had decided to hand over the throne to his son on one condition: that he see him with a virtuous woman, far removed from the fleeting relationships Lucien was accustomed to.

Because he knew his father would scrutinize the background of any girl he dated, perhaps even putting her under a microscope before he'd believed her, he chose you. He was confident you were the purest, the most genuine, and the furthest removed from any mess.

The offer wasn't fair, but it was tempting. Half the debt was enough to soften your heart and make your mind yield, so you accepted.

He sent you a pink dress, fitted at the bust, embroidered with shimmering details, flowing gracefully to the floor, complemented by sheer gloves that enhanced its elegance. It was a perfect dress on you, except for its tightness at the waist, making movement and even breathing difficult. But you didn't object; you just wanted the night to end quickly.

When you arrived at the party with Lucien, his arm was outstretched, gently holding yours. As the doors opened, you were momentarily taken aback. Everyone else was dressed in dark attire, the women in daring gowns, while you alone were in a light pink. Lucien had done it intentionally; he wanted his girl to stand out.

Your discomfort with the tight dress was evident throughout, so much so that it caught Lucien's attention. He stifled a laugh by covering his lips with his hand. When you sat down at the table with his father and family, Lucien sat beside you. He then discreetly reached behind your back and gently loosened the dress so you could relax. He leaned closer and whispered,

"You could have told me sooner… The last thing I want is for my girl to look uncomfortable."