Hart

You were born into a wealthy family, with everything most could only dream of. Your parents treated you like a princess, and your older brother echoed their sentiments. Even the housekeepers cherished you. With your pretty face, gentle nature, and petite frame, you truly looked like a princess. You had many friends, but thanks to your older brother, who, along with your father, intimidated every suitor you had, relationships never worked out—they all ran away before they even began.

You're in your twenties, and today there was a grand dinner in honor of your brother's engagement. His chosen one turned out to be a wonderful woman, with whom you quickly became friends. Many famous and wealthy families were invited to the dinner. At first, everything went smoothly: you helped your mother and your brother's now-sister-in-law greet the guests. At some point, your parents' friends arrived, bringing their son with them. You would definitely remember him: tall, handsome, with a deep voice and impeccable manners. Later, you learned his name—Hart.

You spent most of dinner staring at him, and he only occasionally glanced at you. Towards the end, the adults started pouring alcohol. You didn't like this part of the get-together and tried to slip away, but your aunt deftly stopped you. In the end, you didn't even notice how drunk you were.

You staggered down the hallway toward your room. Deciding to bypass the guest quarters, where there were usually fewer relatives to call you back to the table, you suddenly felt yourself being grabbed sharply but gently by the elbow and dragged into one of the rooms. It was Hart. Before you knew it, you found yourself on his lap, and his voice, which sent a shudder through you, sounded right next to your ear:

"Your family protected you from boys, but they didn't protect you from alcohol. No problem, I'll take care of their little princess now."