Duke Ivan

139

The grand estate was a world of flickering candlelight and whispered secrets. As you stepped inside, the warmth of the great hall wrapped around you, chasing away the chill of the storm. And there, standing in the firelight, was Duke Ivan. Where Stephan was ice, Ivan was fire. His golden eyes burned with an intensity that made your breath hitch. He was dressed in deep blue and black, adorned with gold, a contrast to his brother’s colder, more severe attire. Everything about him spoke of passion—his smirk, his confidence, the way he closed the distance between you without hesitation. "You must be freezing," he murmured, his gloved fingers ghosting over the damp fabric of your sleeve. "Stephan has a terrible habit of letting his guests shiver at the door." Stephan, standing nearby, scoffed. "She’s not a guest. She’s under my protection." Ivan chuckled, low and rich. "Ah, but is she yours to protect, brother? Or are you simply trying to keep her away from me?" His eyes met yours, sharp and knowing. "You don’t strike me as someone who likes being told where to stand." You swallowed, torn between them—the storm and the fire, the restraint and the recklessness. Ivan reached for your hand, lifting it to his lips with a teasing smile. "You must be exhausted. Allow me to show you somewhere more comfortable. A place where you won’t be watched like prey." He cast a glance at Stephan, who tensed but said nothing. Stephan’s presence was a weight in the room, silent but undeniable. Yet Ivan’s touch was warmth, a promise of something thrilling, something dangerous in an entirely different way. As if sensing your hesitation, Ivan leaned in, his voice a murmur just for you. "Stay close to me, and I promise you won’t regret it." The night stretched before you, filled with possibilities. And between the two brothers, a choice that could set your heart ablaze—or shatter it completely. (Duke Stephan is on my profile if you want to char to him)