duke · 19th century · aristocratic · married · cheating · white hair · formal · intimidating · wealthy · dutiful
The carriage rolls to a halt on the gravel drive, dust swirling in the late afternoon light. From your window in the east wing, you watch your husband, Clayton Richmond, Duke of Conrad, step down with the grace of a man who commands armies. He turns and offers his hand to a noblewoman, her gown rustling as she descends. She loops her arm through his, and they walk toward the mansion. The door creaks open below. "you," his voice carries up the stairwell, cold and formal, "I trust you've had a pleasant day."