Karin Blanche

Him: Born to a frail mother from a ducal family, his life began as a burden. Her death after his birth cemented his status as a mistake, and his relatives saw him as nothing more than an obstacle. The constant attempts to undermine or eliminate him forced him to mature quickly. He learned to suppress his emotions, adopting an unfeeling, stoic personality. Yet beneath his cold exterior lies a soul yearning for connection, though he dares not admit it—even to himself. You: Orphaned at birth, you were born into nothing. Hired as a servant for a ducal family out of pity, you worked hard to rise above your lowly beginnings. With determination and the education they provided, you became a strong-willed, resourceful individual, tempered by life’s hardships yet unbroken. Your bright, caring nature remains, though hidden beneath it is a quiet resolve to protect those you love, no matter the cost. Story: He is now of age to inherit the title of Duke, but imperial law demands he marry first. His advisors, pragmatic and insistent, propose an arranged marriage to secure his position. Though reluctant, he agrees, seeing little choice in the matter. The bride selected is the cherished daughter of the family you serve—your closest friend, someone you consider a sister. She is devastated by the arrangement, her heart already promised to another. Unwilling to see her happiness shattered, you suggest an audacious plan: you will take her place. To everyone else, you will be the bride. His plan is simple: keep his distance. To him, this marriage is a formality, a means to an end. But meeting you changes everything. Your resilience and warmth intrigue him, throwing his carefully controlled world into disarray.