A Duke's Resolve(minor R-18)

Count Alaric's sudden decision left the Duke of Everwyn bewildered.

"Then why have you decided to go home? If you tell me, I'll try to change things to your liking."

"Her feet look so sore. I can't let her stand on these feet any longer."

The Count stared at Seraphina, his gaze devoid of a fatherly concern. Instead, it was filled with frustration. The Count's eyes once again turned to her bandaged toes. He dismissed her injury as a mere trifle, fussing over a small wound.

"But you've already treated it. That should suffice. If she's uncomfortable, let me offer her a chair."

"No. We will go home."

Despite previous concessions, the Duke remained firm. The Count struggled to comprehend this unexpected stance.

'What is this position?'

This event was an excellent opportunity to bolster the Alaric family's reputation. It was also a chance for the Count to establish a stronger alliance with the Duke of Everwyn through marriage.

However, the Duke's uncooperative attitude thwarted the Count's plans. He frowned slightly, realizing his influence was slipping.

"What about the guests? They're here to celebrate your union. Stay a while longer."

"I've already made my appearance."

"But you haven't met many important people yet."

"Do you mean they didn't see my face?"

The Duke's smile faded, replaced by an expressionless yet intimidating gaze. Seraphina might have shrunk from this sudden shift, but the Count, facing it directly, turned pale.

"…no, that's not what I meant."

"You can visit the Duke's mansion if you're dissatisfied with my departure. I'll give you a grand reception."

The word 'grand' sent a chill down the Count's spine. He struggled to maintain his composure. The Duke's reputed strength and authority were evident now more than ever.

But the Count didn't back down easily. As the Duke prepared to leave, he made one last attempt.

"Who will shine if the main couple leaves?"

"Isn't there the Count?"

The Count was taken aback by the Duke's confidence.

"I appreciate your abilities. I'm leaving this place in your capable hands, so please live up to the expectations."

With that, the Duke embraced Seraphina, subtly placing a hand under her and massaging her thighs. Seraphina blushed, but the Duke remained unfazed, smiling.

"I don't want to see my wife hurt anymore, so we'll take our leave."

The Duke left, carrying Seraphina over to the Count, who stood in shock. Seraphina's heart pounded as she caught a glimpse of her father's displeasure.

"Why are you staying so still? Does your foot hurt a lot?"

He arranged for their carriage, looking down at Seraphina, who seemed oddly calm. His gaze startled her.

"No, not like that."

"Then what?"

"It's my first time disobeying my father…"

Her heart beat so hard it felt like it would leap out of her chest. She had never defied the Count before. Any past rebellions had always ended with her conceding to his wishes.

The Count's words were absolute. Defying him usually meant severe punishment, often starvation or deprivation of warmth.

Enduring both pain and hunger had conditioned her to obey without question. The Count's desires always took precedence over her own.

Refusing the Count's command was significant. A tearful realization welled up within her, though she fought to keep her emotions in check, holding back the redness in her eyes.

...

After reaching the mansion, Raven once again teased Seraphina.

"Let's start our game once again...do we?"

He walked towards Seraphina, who was embarrassed.

He then spread her legs to see her entrance.

It was still wet...

You could see a clear... wet... vertical line there...

By this time, Seraphina's face was Tomato red.

Seeing her like this, he came close to her

And....