The grand hall of the Duke's estate was adorned with opulent decorations, shimmering chandeliers casting a warm glow over the gathered nobility. The air was thick with the scent of fresh flowers and the soft murmur of polite conversation. Honey Ravenswood stood at the center of it all the stiff faces, her face showing innocence, her heart pounding in her chest as she adjusted the delicate lace of her gown. The fabric clung to her figure, accentuating her graceful and young silhouette, but it felt more like an obstacle than a garment to her.
Honey was the only daughter of the esteemed Duke Ravenswood, a family known for their unwavering loyalty to the Imperial family. With her long, chestnut hair cascading in soft waves down her back and her striking green eyes filled with a mix of determination and defiance, her cherry colored lips, a faint natural blush on her cheeks, she was the epitome of noble beauty. Yet, beneath her composed exterior lay a tempest of emotions, swirling with passion, adventure and mischief. Now a little resentfulness at the impending engagement that loomed over her like a dark cloud.
As she scanned the room, her gaze landed on William Fitzgerald, the Duke of Ashcombe. He stood across the hall, exuding an air of confidence that drew the attention of many. He was 180cm tall and broad-shouldered, with tousled dark hair and piercing grey eyes, undeniably cold and handsome. Yet, it was his demeanor that intrigued her most—an enigmatic blend of charm and aloofness that made him both alluring and infuriating.
' huh' she raised her nose in the air as some spoiled young lady.
William was well aware of a certain beautiful pair of eyes upon him, a slight smirk playing on his lips as he engaged in conversation with a group of nobles. He was known for his sharp wit and keen intellect, qualities that had earned him both admiration and envy among his peers. But as he caught sight of Honey, the smirk faded, replaced by a pretend serious expression.
"Lady Honey," he said, striding toward her with purposeful steps, his voice smooth and resonating. "I trust you are enjoying the festivities?"
Honey became startled but she composed herself. "Enjoying? Hardly. I'd rather be anywhere but here, Duke William. You know how I feel about this engagement." She said crossing her arms over her chest, saying arrogantly.
William's gaze remained steady, a flicker of amusement dancing in his eyes. "And yet, here we are. It seems our families have decided our fates for us." He leaned in slightly, lowering his voice. "But I must admit, I find your anger rather charming."
"Charming?" Honey echoed, incredulous. "You think it's charming that I'm being forced into a marriage I don't want? This is not a joke, William. This is my life!" she said dramatically.
He raised an eyebrow, a hint of challenge in his expression. "And what would you have me do? Refuse the arrangement? Disobey our families? You know as well as I do that this alliance is crucial for both our houses."
Honey's frustration bubbled to the surface. "I don't care about these alliances. I want to choose my own path, my own partner. I refuse to be a pawn in this political game, especially in a marriage."
William's demeanor shifted, his voice dropping to a more serious tone. "I understand your frustration, but we must find a way to make this work. We can either fight against it or embrace it. I choose to embrace it, and I hope you will too."
Honey was merely testing him, his resilience. She was spoiled but knew that how this alliance was important. Moreover she had investigated that the duke had no shortcomings.
Before she could respond, the sound of a bell chimed, signaling the official announcement of their engagement to the family. The crowd hushed, turning their attention to the Duke Ravenswood, who stood at the head of the hall, a proud smile on his face.
"Ladies and gentlemen," he began, his voice booming with authority, "it is with great joy that I announce the engagement of my daughter, Lady Honey Ravenswood, to Duke William Fitzgerald of Ashcombe. Together, we shall strengthen the bonds between our families and secure a prosperous future for our houses."
As applause erupted around them, Honey felt a wave of boredom and irritation wash over her as people rushed to congratulate her. She forced a smile, but inside, she was bored. She always expected her life trajectory to be exceptional, adventurous, something that shook all of the empire. But it was all the same marriage alliance, her fiance, a stoic cold man who drums about duties all day.
William, however, seemed unfazed, his expression a mix of amusement and determination.
"Congratulations, my lady," he said, his voice low enough for only her to hear. "It seems we are officially bound together now."
Honey shot him a dead glare.
"This isn't over, William. I won't let this define me. You'll see." She squinted her eyes as she said in a rather calm voice and self confident smile.
He chuckled softly, a glimmer of challenge in his eyes. "I wouldn't expect anything less from you, Honey. But remember, the game has only just begun."
As the crowd continued to celebrate, Honey felt the weight of her new reality settle upon her. She was engaged to a man she barely knew, and the path ahead was fraught with uncertainty. But one thing was clear: she would find her own way.