Lidio would never forgive words that hurt Alice. Everyone in noble society knew her as the “damaged” marquis’s daughter, publicly humiliated during her engagement’s annulment at a grand party. While many pitied her, there were whispers suggesting she must have been partly at fault.
Anyone foolish enough to utter such thoughts within Lidio’s earshot, however, would soon find themselves unable to speak—or even breathe—ever again.
His love was deep and heavy, often expressed with a terrifying intensity that could turn entire rooms into bloody spectacles.
(Oh, to be loved like this is wonderful. Thank you, dear spirits.)
Alice savored her meal with a dreamy smile, silently thanking the spirits who had granted her the power to shape this happiness.
* * *
Determined to be the perfect duchess, Alice took special care in welcoming guests. A well-received wife reflected positively on her husband’s reputation.
Today’s visitors were two of Lidio’s old friends from his school days.
“It’s been a long time, Lord Aiden, Lord Hartley,” Alice greeted them warmly as she entered the parlor. She had accompanied the maid bringing in their tea and decided to join their conversation briefly.
Alice had memorized key details about each guest to ensure they enjoyed their time. Her goal was to make them feel at ease while subtly praising them. Everything she did was for Lidio’s benefit.
However, when she glanced at Lidio before speaking, a vision of the future stopped her in her tracks.
(What… is this situation?)
In the vision, Alice was chained.
She sat in a dim, windowless room with gray walls, likely a basement. In the center of the room was a small bed with a side table.
Her hands were bound with cuffs, though they were padded with soft material to prevent discomfort or injury. Even in captivity, Lidio had been thoughtful enough to ensure she felt no pain.
In the vision, Lidio placed a colorful bouquet in a vase before sitting on the edge of the bed.
“You’ve been praising other men so much that I was consumed with jealousy. I can’t bear it anymore. You’ll have to stay here, out of everyone’s sight, for a while,” he said with a calm yet possessive tone.
“My apologies, Lord Mortade. I overstepped, thinking it would benefit you. I’ve upset you, and I deeply regret it,” the Alice in the vision replied, her head bowed in remorse.
“I’m sorry for being such a jealous man,” Lidio said, pulling her gently into his embrace. “I know you meant well, but I couldn’t tolerate it.”
He paused and added, “I might end up locking you up again if I get jealous. I’ll make sure to furnish this room properly. Is there anything you’d like?”
“If I could have a bigger bed to share with you, that would make me happy,” Alice replied with a soft smile.
“So, this one doesn’t suit you?” Lidio asked, his voice tinged with concern.
“Do you dislike me for being selfish?”
“Of course not. The real question is, have I disappointed you?”
“Not at all. Any form of love you give me is enough,” Alice replied, her face radiant with affection.
Moved by her words, Lidio cradled her face in his hands and kissed her gently.
“I love you, Alice. I love you so much that if I could, I’d keep you like this forever,” he confessed.
Alice blinked, returning to the present. She realized that if she overly praised Lidio’s friends, this darkly possessive future would unfold.
(This is a bit… extreme.)
She also recognized the potential consequences. If the servants accidentally leaked information about her captivity, it would ruin Lidio’s reputation.
(I can’t let him do something like that… though… it doesn’t sound entirely bad, does it?)
Alice felt her heart race, caught between unease and excitement at the possessiveness she had glimpsed.
No matter what he did, as long as love was at the core, it was enough for her.
Bound by the weight of Lidio’s love, Alice’s heart brimmed with contentment once more.
[The End]
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