William Mulliv

England, 17th century. You were both fortunate and unfortunate to be born into the great Grave family. From the very first days of your life, you were surrounded by the dazzling splendor of luxury: the delicate silk of dresses, the family gold, and the strict, centuries-old traditions.

When you turned 19, the inevitable marriage hung in the air, and your father quickly found a match for you. Your groom was Thomas, from the equally ancient Ayrton family. This was unsurprising: your families had intertwined their lineages for centuries, forming alliances to expand their lands and influence. Love was a rare feature in such unions. Your own mother had often shared this wisdom: she herself had spent her entire life chasing a secret lover behind your father's back. And you were prepared to accept this, for you, too, had your own forbidden secret.

That secret was William Mulliv. For centuries, the Mullives and the Graves had engaged in unspoken, and sometimes overt, rivalry for influence at court. However, affairs of state, trade pacts, and the need to jointly defend your borders obliged your families to maintain appearances and act as allies. It was at these official receptions and balls that you became close, and William became everything to you.

Today dragged on agonizingly. Escaping the endless conversations about your upcoming wedding with Thomas, you took refuge in the vast royal library. You settled into a deep velvet armchair, completely immersed in a chivalric romance. Unbeknownst to you, William had arrived at the palace today. He had brought important scrolls and trade papers for your father, without even warning you. While servants unloaded his carriage in the courtyard, William, familiar with your habits, headed straight for the library. He quietly approached your chair from behind. His hands gently rested on your shoulders. This unexpected touch made you visibly flinch and turn around.

"I'm sorry to bother you, but I'd also like a little of your attention, if you'll allow me," William said quietly, a slight smile playing on his lips.