The Duke's Bride

Hazel was reading an old book while lying on her bed. She was deeply absorbed in the world created by the author, taking her to places she had never explored before. Occasionally, her frail fingers turned the pages. In the quiet room, the only sound was her steady breathing. Outside, life went on without her, and Hazel had grown accustomed to the oppressive solitude.

As she was lost in her own world, the door to her room creaked open. A young servant stood at the door, hesitating before stepping inside. "Miss Hazel," she called softly. "Count Barnum requests your presence in the hall."

Hazel looked up from her book, her eyes filled with confusion. "Father wants to see me?" she asked in disbelief. It had been a long time since she last saw her father.

"Yes, Miss," the servant replied, bowing her head slightly. "Count Barnum is waiting in the hall."

Hazel carefully closed her book and put it aside. She struggled to gather the strength to rise from her bed; the pain that always accompanied her made every movement difficult. The servant stepped forward and extended her hand to help, but Hazel shook her head, trying to get up on her own.

"I can manage," she said weakly but firmly. "Thank you."

With unsteady steps, Hazel left her room, feeling the cold marble floor beneath her feet. Each step felt like a tremendous effort, but she kept moving toward the living room where her father awaited. When she reached the door to the living room, Hazel took a deep breath, trying to calm her racing heart. She slowly opened the door and stepped inside. There, in the middle of the large room, stood her father, Barnum Ellsworth, with an expression that was hard to read.

"You finally came," Barnum said coldly. His eyes pierced through Hazel, as if searching for something long lost.

"Why did you call me, Father?" Hazel asked, her voice barely a whisper.

"There's something we need to discuss," Barnum replied bluntly. "You know, Hazel, I've tried to understand what you could contribute to this family. But as time goes on, I realize more and more that you're of no use to us."

In the large but silent hall, Count Barnum Ellsworth paced back and forth with quick, agitated steps. His face was flushed, showing the burning anger within him. Hazel slowly walked toward the sofa and sat down, her frail body draped in brown satin, contrasting with her perpetually pale face. Her large, teary eyes looked at her father with deep fear.

Barnum stopped right in front of Hazel and looked at her with a gaze that could pierce the heart. "You are utterly useless!" he shouted with a trembling voice. "Look at yourself, Hazel. You've been nothing but a burden for years! No nobleman, merchant, or high society would even glance at you. You're alive, but it's like you're already dead. You're like an invisible ghost!"

Hazel lowered her head, tears streaming down her face. Her father's words felt like daggers stabbing directly into her heart. "I... I never asked to be born like this," she whispered, barely audible.

"You're right. I wanted a daughter who was healthy, intelligent, and beautiful. At least if you were healthy and beautiful, a prince would consider you as his wife. Your marriage would have a significant impact on the family business. But look at yourself-weak and useless," Barnum sneered. "Unfortunately, you were born as my daughter, becoming an obstacle to all the plans and profits I could have achieved. You are the greatest failure of my life."

"I... I'm so sorry, Father..." Hazel's tears flowed even more.

"Look at your brothers! At least they can help me manage the company. And you? What do you do, you worthless trash!"

The hall, once silent, now echoed with Barnum's anger. The air around Hazel felt toxic, and every breath she took became more suffocating. She tried to summon the courage to defend herself, but her frail body did not grant her enough strength.

"All you do is read useless romance novels. At the very least, attend the noble gatherings, attract young men with your beauty. Oh, I forgot. You're sickly. No sane man would want to marry you, because you would only be a burden to them," Barnum continued with a mocking tone. "Tell me, why are you still alive, Hazel? What else can you offer this family besides the burden of taking care of you without anything in return?"

Hazel's hazel-green eyes could only stare at her father with tears welling up, her lips trembling as she held back sobs. She knew deep in her heart that there was nothing she could say or do to change her father's opinion. Barnum Ellsworth was a man who only valued profit and money, and unfortunately, Hazel had no place in his calculations.

"Couldn't there at least be one or two wealthy men willing to marry you?!" Barnum shouted again, his voice shaking with anger. "Look at yourself, Hazel! You're just a burden. In this country, our noble status should be highly valuable. And you? No businessman, young tycoon, or billionaire wants to marry you!"

"Father, please forgive me. Tell me what I should do," Hazel begged, her voice hoarse.

Barnum took a deep breath, filled with anger and frustration. "Do you know what bothers me the most, Hazel? You're a countess, but you can't do anything useful. You just sit here, sick and pale. What's the point of all this?"

Hazel felt her world collapsing. The outside world seemed like a dream she could never reach. The family that should have been her refuge had become a source of suffering. Every day, Hazel was trapped in this miserable situation, only able to hope that someday a miracle would happen to free her from all her suffering. Until that day came, she had to make do with the strength she had left, even though that strength was dwindling day by day.

Suddenly, the door to the hall opened, and a servant rushed in. "Count Barnum," she called out quickly. "A messenger from Duke Kingsley's family is waiting at the front. He has an important message."

Barnum frowned, clearly annoyed. "Duke Kingsley?" he muttered, trying to grasp the situation. "Okay, bring him in."

Soon after, the messenger, a young man dressed in a suit and tie that looked quite expensive, entered with respect. He carried a white envelope sealed with the Kingsley family crest. Barnum looked at him with curiosity.

"What is your business here?" Barnum asked, his voice still firm.

The messenger bowed respectfully before speaking. "Count Ellsworth, I have a formal request from Duke Rainhard Kingsley to propose to Lady Hazel Ellsworth."

The room suddenly fell silent. Hazel and Barnum's eyes widened, not believing what they were hearing. Known for his bravery and cold demeanor, Duke Rainhard Kingsley proposed to Hazel? Barnum looked shocked but tried to remain calm.

"A formal request?" Barnum repeated, as if to make sure he heard correctly. "A marriage proposal from Duke Rainhard Kingsley to my daughter?"

"Yes, Count Ellsworth," the messenger replied firmly. "Duke Rainhard Kingsley sees the potential and elegance of Lady Hazel and feels she would be perfect for him."

Hazel felt the world spinning. How could the Duke, known for his cold and ruthless nature, be interested in her, someone her own father deemed worthless? Her vision blurred with tears, filled with both fear and hope.

Barnum, still in shock, took a deep breath. "I will consider the offer," he finally said, his voice calmer but filled with consideration. "Inform Duke Kingsley that we will give you an answer as soon as possible."

The messenger bowed once more before turning and leaving the room. Barnum looked at Hazel, his expression now full of amazement.

"Hazel," he said slowly, "perhaps this is the opportunity we've been waiting for. You must prepare yourself. Duke Rainhard Kingsley is no ordinary man."

Hazel could only nod slowly, still stunned by this sudden development. In her heart, she felt a flicker of new hope but also a deep fear of what her future might hold with the Duke, who was notorious for his cruelty. One thing was certain: her life would never be the same again.

"This time, don't mess anything up, and don't disgrace the family again!"

***

Arcanis isn't the only country that still upholds a monarchy in this modern era. However, unlike other European nations where noble titles are purely symbolic and reserved for the royal family, Arcanis retains a deeply rooted royal culture. Although nobles no longer possess territorial power, they still manage family businesses and are known as the old money class, struggling to stay relevant amidst the rise of new money-young entrepreneurs and visionary billionaires. The Ellsworth family, including Barnum, is no exception in this battle.

Barnum immediately accepted Duke Rainhard Kingsley's proposal for his only daughter, who was seen as useless, believing that this marriage would elevate the Ellsworth family's social status.

"Everything has been decided-you will marry Duke Kingsley, Hazel," Barnum said firmly.

Hazel looked at her father with wide, fearful eyes. The small hope that had briefly surfaced couldn't dispel her anxiety. Her heart raced as she imagined a fate possibly worse than being confined to her gloomy room.

Barnum watched his daughter, trying to gauge her reaction. "Hazel, this is an opportunity we can't afford to miss. Duke Rainhard Kingsley wants to marry you. You know what that means, don't you?" he said sharply.

Hazel nodded slowly, though her heart was filled with dread. "But Father... Duke Rainhard Kingsley... there are many rumors about him," she said, her voice trembling, barely daring to voice her fears.

Barnum sighed, looking impatient, and his expression grew more serious. "I know those rumors, Hazel. But you must understand that in this world, opportunities like this rarely come twice. You need to see this as a chance to improve your life and raise our family's name."

To Hazel's surprise, Barnum seemed more concerned with reputation and gain than his daughter's safety. "Father, I'm scared. Duke Rainhard Kingsley isn't an ordinary man."

Barnum looked at Hazel sharply. "Rumors are just rumors, Hazel. No one can confirm their truth. What matters is the reality that he is a Duke with great power and influence. Our family could gain a lot from this marriage."

Hazel's body trembled. Duke Rainhard Kingsley was indeed the source of gossip even more terrifying than herself. Although he was still a cousin to the king, rumors about his mother being a prostitute and his life filled with cruelty made him sound like a character from a horror story. His arrogant and cold demeanor was often said to be his natural disposition, but whispers about him being the head of a mafia in the underworld and killing every enemy in silence made everyone fear him. He was dubbed the "Devil's Blood Duke" for his ruthlessness.

Even more frightening, no one had ever seen the Duke's face in person. As the owner of the Kingsley business empire, Rainhard never appeared in public, adding to the mystery and fear surrounding him.

"Father, I... I don't know if I can do this," Hazel whispered, her voice breaking. "What if all those rumors are true? What if I can't live with him? I don't want to marry him, Father..."

Barnum looked at Hazel angrily. His fists clenched at his sides, and his breathing grew heavier. "What did you just say, Hazel?" his voice rose, showing the simmering anger within him.

Hazel looked down, feeling the fear gripping her. "Father, I just... I'm scared. The rumors about Duke Rainhard Kingsley are terrifying."

Barnum stepped closer, his eyes blazing with anger. "Hazel, do you realize how much I've spent on you all these years? Expensive medicines, doctor's treatments, all the efforts to keep you alive? And now, when there's a chance to improve your life and elevate the Ellsworth family name, you dare refuse?"

Hazel recoiled, shocked, as tears began to well up in her eyes. "I... I didn't mean that, Father. I just..."

"Silence!" Barnum shouted. "You will disgrace this family if you reject the Duke's proposal. Don't you care about the Ellsworth name? Do you want all my sacrifices for you to be in vain?"

Hazel sobbed, feeling the overwhelming pressure. Her father only cared about honor, reputation, business, and family wealth. "Alright, Father. I will marry him. I will do it."

Barnum sighed deeply, his anger slowly subsiding, though his gaze remained sharp. "Good. That's what you should have said from the start. Duke Rainhard Kingsley is no ordinary man, and this opportunity is your way out of your dark life. Don't waste it. I'll give the answer that you've accepted Duke Kingsley's proposal. There's no need for an engagement party. From now on, you are Duke Rainhard Kingsley's fiancée."

Hazel nodded slowly, though her heart was full of fear. "I understand, Father." Barnum looked at his daughter one more time, satisfied with her response. "Now, go back to your room. Rest and prepare yourself. We'll give Duke Kingsley an answer soon."

With a heavy heart, Hazel returned to her room, carrying an even greater burden on her shoulders. Through the gloomy window, she looked at the gray sky, hoping for a miracle to free her from this dreadful fate. Leaving as Duke Kingsley's bride was like walking toward death.

***

That afternoon, Barnum knocked hard on Hazel's bedroom door. Hazel was startled, quickly stood up, and slowly opened the door. Barnum entered with a serious face, carrying an invitation in his hand.

"Hazel, you have to attend a banquet tonight," he said without preamble. "It's the welcome party for the son of Marquess Margaux, who has just returned from studying in England."

Hazel was surprised. Usually, Barnum always decided that Hazel wouldn't attend any gatherings due to health reasons. "Father, I... I've never been to an event like this before," she said, her voice trembling.

Barnum looked at his daughter sharply. "This time is different. You are Duke Rainhard Kingsley's fiancée now. You need to show yourself and carry the prestige of being the Duke's betrothed."

Hazel felt an overwhelming tension. "But Father, I'm not sure if I can. I've never attended such a banquet before. People will stare at me."

Barnum sighed deeply, softening a bit. "Hazel, you have to go. Your presence at this banquet is very important. We need to show everyone that the Ellsworth family is still influential and respected. You're not just carrying our family's name, but also Duke Kingsley's."

Hazel nodded slowly, realizing she had no other choice. "Alright, Father. I'll prepare."

Barnum looked at his daughter with a softer yet firm expression. "Good. Wear your best dress. Show them that you're a daughter of the Ellsworth family."

After Barnum left her room, Hazel stood in front of the mirror, staring at her pale reflection. Tonight, she had to become someone stronger, even though her heart was filled with anxiety. She chose an elegant deep blue gown, hoping to hide her fears behind the beautiful attire.

***

In the grand hall of Marquess Margaux's residence, crystal lights sparkled, and laughter filled the air. Lavishly dressed guests mingled, chatting, and laughing comfortably. However, their attention shifted when Hazel entered the room, accompanied by an Ellsworth family servant. Whispers and sharp glances followed her every step, but Hazel straightened her back, trying to appear graceful and strong, as her father expected.

Hazel stepped into the grand hall of Marquess Margaux's residence with trembling steps. Her pale blue gown fluttered gently around her feet, but her chest was full of anxiety.

"Is that Lady Ellsworth?" someone whispered near the door.

"Yes, she's the one engaged to Duke Rainhard Kingsley," another replied with a tone full of curiosity.

Hazel tried to smile and act normal, but she could feel their eyes following her every move. Although they were interested in the news of her engagement, no one really cared to approach her. They preferred to gather with their own acquaintances, engaging in warm conversations that didn't involve her.

Feeling increasingly isolated and unwanted, Hazel decided to step away from the crowd. She slowly walked towards the balcony, seeking fresh air to calm her nerves. Once outside, she took a deep breath, gazing at the beautiful sparkling city below. The cool night breeze brushed her face, making her shiver slightly. However, she was reluctant to leave. Here, under the starry night sky, she felt a little more at peace. The twinkling city lights in the distance seemed to greet her, offering a bit of solace amidst the unfamiliar crowd.

"I wish I could live as freely as those stars," she whispered to herself, feeling tears welling up in her eyes. "I wish there was something in my life I could decide for myself."

Hazel gazed at the stars from the balcony, enjoying a rare moment of peace in the midst of the bustling party. The night wind grew colder, making her hug herself. However, the tranquility was suddenly interrupted by the sound of approaching footsteps.

A thick coat was suddenly draped over her shoulders, warming her instantly. Hazel was startled and turned around. In front of her stood a handsome man with a blank expression, his sad blue eyes looking at her. "You're cold out here alone. Why don't you go inside?" his voice was deep and calm, yet something in his tone touched Hazel's heart. Usually, no one cared about her. But this man was different.

Hazel was captivated by his good looks, unable to speak for a moment. His sharp and sad eyes, perfect nose, and thin lips formed a faint, hard-to-read smile.

Unconsciously, Hazel stared at the man without blinking. Finally, Hazel managed to regain her composure and smiled faintly. "You should be the one going inside, enjoying the party and dancing with the ladies," she replied softly. "Are you bored, Sir?"

***

In silence, Hazel enjoyed the gentle night breeze caressing her face. The handsome man beside her chuckled softly at her earlier comment, revealing a charming smile with dimples. Hazel decided not to ask his name, letting him remain mysterious. For her, that was quite pleasant.

"What's wrong?" Hazel finally asked, feeling warmth spread in her heart as she watched the man's laughter. "A man as handsome as you should be charming the ladies on the dance floor right now."

The man smiled while sipping his wine. "It's too boring inside," he replied with a low, calming voice. "The crowd, the small talk, it's all just tedious."

They fell silent for a moment, simply enjoying the stars scattered across the night sky and the peaceful atmosphere. The man sipped his wine slowly, his deep eyes gazing far into the horizon. Hazel looked at him, feeling something intriguing emanating from him.

"Why are you looking at me like that?" the handsome man asked, his blue eyes shifting to meet Hazel's.

Hazel sighed before answering. "I'm just curious, why would someone like you choose to spend time with someone boring like me?"

The man looked at Hazel intently, secretly drawn to her caramel brown hair flowing beautifully in the wind, contrasting with her pale face covered by a thin layer of makeup.

"Do you even know who I am?" he asked in a calm voice, but his eyes remained sharp.

Hazel gave a slight smile, trying to hide her nervousness. "You're at this party, so it's clear you're not an ordinary person and have some status," she said calmly, though she still had doubts in her heart.

The man smiled mysteriously, as if holding some hidden knowledge. "So, you're not familiar with my true identity," he said, staring at Hazel sharply.

Hazel felt her heartbeat quicken, but she chose to stay composed. "At least I know you're not an ordinary person."

The man laughed again, his voice echoing in the quiet night. "You're quite smart," he said while finishing the last of his wine.

Hearing his laughter, Hazel felt increasingly uneasy. "Why are you smiling like that?" she suddenly asked, trying to uncover the meaning behind his smile. "Are you judging whether I'm worth taking to bed?"

The man looked at her carefully. He could see that Hazel was an innocent virgin, her gaze naive, not like a woman trying to seduce.

"Why are you asking that? Could it be that you're drunk?" the man asked firmly, trying to ease Hazel's anxiety. "Do I look like a jerk who would take advantage of girls for my own pleasure?"

Hazel turned her gaze forward. "I'm still sickly and weak even though I eat the best food. How could I be drunk?"

The man moved a little closer, looking at her seriously. "I'm just not sure, but from what I said earlier... doesn't that mean you're trying to provoke me?"

Hazel felt slightly offended by the question, but she also recognized some truth in it. "Maybe you're right," she finally said, trying to hide her disappointment behind a smile. "Maybe I should go back inside. A handsome man like you surely isn't interested in someone like me."

The man smiled again, but this time his smile was more mysterious. "Do you even understand the meaning of what you're saying?"

"I'm often sick, but that doesn't mean I'm stupid," Hazel replied, slightly offended. "Are you not interested in touching me because I look like a sickly girl?"

The handsome man smiled wryly, a hidden meaning in his gaze. "If you knew who I am, you would regret it."

Hazel shrugged, trying to stay calm even though her heart was pounding. "A man like you can surely choose any woman you want. So why did you choose to be here, with me, a sickly woman who rarely leaves the house and is not known by many people?"

The man chuckled softly, his voice low and warm. "I just felt bored at that party. Didn't you feel the same?"

Hazel looked at him with curious eyes. "You talk as if you know me. So why don't we go to bed right now?"

The man was surprised by Hazel's boldness, the corner of his eyes narrowing mockingly at her. "You won't regret saying that, will you?"

Hazel shook her head. As she was about to speak, her dry lips felt the warm breath of the man. In the dark, quiet night, as the night breeze gently touched their skin, their lips met in a passionate kiss. The man started gently, his lips caressing Hazel's with an appreciation for her delicate beauty. Hazel responded with burning passion, her lips matching the man's kiss with equal desire.

As the kiss continued, they engaged in a dance of intimacy that generated warmth between them. The man's tongue slipped into Hazel's mouth skillfully, finding and challenging her tongue in teasing movements. Small moans escaped their lips, signaling hidden desires. Every touch, every brush of their lips sent electric currents through the air around them.

Their hearts beat in sync, reflecting the excitement and tension they both felt. Hazel felt like she was drowning in sensations she had never experienced before, momentarily forgetting the world around her. Their lips finally parted, releasing their breaths, ragged with passion.

Their eyes met, filled with the spark of desire and longing. That gaze radiated the intimacy they had just shared, making them feel as if the world had changed in an instant.

The man smiled, looking at Hazel's lips smeared with lipstick after their intense kiss. "I'm sure you have an opinion of me now. Am I right?" he asked in a low, teasing voice.

Hazel swallowed, trying to calm her racing heart. "I... I don't know what to say," she finally replied, her voice trembling. "This... this is my first time."

The man raised an eyebrow, slightly surprised but still smiling. "First time, huh? I'm flattered."

The man was usually not very expressive. Though slightly reluctant to see Hazel's fluttering emotions, he kept his emotional distance. However, for Hazel, the kiss brought new and pleasant sensations. The man observed her, trying to understand Hazel's expression.

"How did it feel?" he asked in a flat tone. "Are you going to back out now?"

Hazel, with newfound courage, looked at the man. "I'm fine," she replied firmly. "We can take it to the next level. Do you want us to stay at a hotel or will you take me home?"

"Do you want to go up to my bedroom?"

Hazel looked straight into the man's eyes. "Why not?"

The man frowned, feeling unsatisfied with Hazel's answer. Initially, he kissed Hazel just to toy with her, thinking she was just a naive and innocent girl who would easily get swept up in the moment, like a delicate flower growing in a greenhouse. However, Hazel's response left him puzzled.

"We'll stop here. Not every man is worth getting close to, Miss," he said seriously. "You shouldn't give yourself away to just anyone. Think carefully. Go on."

The man started to walk away, but Hazel, with trembling hands, grabbed the hem of his shirt, stopping him.

"Wait," she whispered, her eyes full of determination. "Why are you doing this? Why are you leaving now? Am I not attractive enough?"

***