Violet_167

Isabella Beaumont figured she was making a smart, if desperate, trade: her freedom in exchange for marrying the dreaded Duke Alaric Thorne. 
Sure, the guy had a reputation darker than a moonless night, whispered about in every corner of the kingdom, but it was just a contract, right? A way to escape a brutal past that had literally left its mark on her face. 
She wasn’t expecting warmth, and definitely not passion. But then Alaric, this formidable, feared man, starts acting… protective. His unexpected kindness will make her want to throw away her protective mask and actually fall for the man who was supposed to be just her ticket to freedom. 
Just as Isabella starts believing she might actually deserve happiness, everything begins falling apart around them.
With the villains on the loose, old wounds being ripped open, and everyone’s true colors showing, is this sudden, fierce love strong enough to survive the storm? Or will the darkness from their pasts and the deadly games shatter everything they’re starting to build?

The Masked Duchess

I exchanged a quick glance with Alaric, his eyes containing a storm of protective fury. Elara stood before us, her usually composed demeanor shattered by what appeared to be genuine terror.


"We need somewhere private," I whispered, scanning the opulent ballroom for a discreet location.


Queen Seraphina, ever perceptive, drifted closer. "The alcove behind the eastern tapestry," she murmured. "No one will disturb you there. I'll stand guard."


I nodded gratefully as she continued in a louder voice, "Duchess Isabella, might I show you that lovely painting I mentioned? Just this way."


Following her lead, I gestured for Elara to accompany us. Alaric moved to join, but Seraphina touched his arm.


"Perhaps you and I should remain visible," she suggested meaningfully. "While Isabella admires the art collection."


Understanding flashed in his eyes. He'd be watching from a strategic position, ready to intervene if needed. The Queen was creating a diversion while ensuring protection.


Chapter 106 - The Dressmaker's Fearful Revelation