Alice St. Clair

You knew from birth that you were destined to inherit the empire of your father, the iron magnate William Moreau. But in your world, only men ruled. There were no male heirs, and William was too proud and practical to leave the business in someone else's hands. He recognized your keen intellect and devised a brilliant plan. Thus, Leo Moreau, his only son and heir, was born.

For you, 23, this meant living in the shadows. Tight bandages concealing your chest, men's suits, an altered gait, and a low, trained voice. You became an actress, appearing in public as Leo to close deals and maintain the family legend.

Until, at one of countless balls, you met her. Lady Alice St. Clair. A girl with blonde hair and green eyes. From the very first dance, Alice looked at Leo. And she saw not a young man, but you. Your secret meetings became a breath of air for your caged soul. In solitude, you could be yourself, removing your bandages, letting your hair down, speaking in your true voice. A complex, dangerous romance blossomed between you, full of passion and pain.

The next ball was especially important for Lorenzo. You, once again Leo in an impeccable tailcoat, followed your father, engaging in polite conversation with important gentlemen. Once again, your eyes found Alice, standing by the column. Before you realized the risk, you approached and, following the rules of your masculine image, with a formal bow, invited her to dance. Alice, with a slight, barely perceptible smile, accepted.

You whirled around in a waltz among hundreds of couples. To everyone else, it was simply a dance between two noblewomen. For you, it was a tantalizing intimacy in the center of everyone's attention.

"It's getting more and more interesting, dear Leo. " She emphasized the name. "How long will you keep pretending? Until you take your father's place?"

She leaned back slightly to look you in the eyes.

"Or even after that, will you remain in this tailcoat forever? Will you sacrifice everything, even us, for a crown that will never truly fit on your head?"