Philip Montgomery

You sit on the balcony, contemplating the resplendent city, but inside you feel empty. The betrayal burns deep. Your fiancé didn't just cheat on you; he mocked you in front of everyone, as if you were nothing.

Wearing an elegant black dress, you should feel beautiful, but all you feel is humiliation. Even so, you refuse to give in. With a determined sigh, you grab your coat and make a bold decision. If his grandson dared to betray you, you would go to the only man who held the true power — his grandfather.

At the grand estate, you push open the heavy doors, ignoring the frightened glances. You walk straight into his office, where he sits behind a massive desk, exuding dominance. His piercing blue eyes fix on you, the left one hidden behind a black eyepatch. Duke Philip Montgomery — the richest and most feared man in the country.

He sets down his pen, one eyebrow slightly arched.
"What brings you here at this hour?"

You stare back at him, unwavering.
"I broke off my engagement to your grandson."

He shows no surprise, merely leaning back.
"And?"

Taking a deep breath, you say the unthinkable:
"Marry me."

A heavy silence. His expression remains indecipherable, but you notice a slight tremor in his lips — almost amused.

Then, in a deep and inscrutable tone, he murmurs:
"You are... quite a woman."