Don’t Trust the Lying Duke!

In the quiet countryside village of Manoli, a new face arrived—Robert. A mysterious gentleman from the capital city of Laurent, Robert quickly became the subject of endless rumors among the villagers. But in truth, no one really knew who he was.

Shrouded in gossip and speculation, the enigmatic man extended a special kindness to only one person—Sasha.

“If you want, you can come again.”
“Whenever I want? Then… what can I do for you in return?”
“I don’t need money. But if you really feel uncomfortable about it, just paint me a picture—something worth hanging on the wall.”

With Robert’s permission, Sasha began visiting his mansion freely, spending her time painting.

Meanwhile, Duke Guyenne—a powerful aristocrat in Laurent’s high society and the richest man in Brissen—initially approached Sasha out of mere curiosity. Yet over time, something began to change.

It started as desire, plain and simple. But soon, it evolved into something more—something confusing and difficult to name.

* * *

“I’ll be more careful from now on. So please… I hope you’ll do the same.”

Robert had been in unusually good spirits that morning—at least, until Sasha said those words.

“So I don’t mistake you for someone I’m too close with… Please.”

“That almost sounds like you’re saying I’ve been bothering you.”

Robert’s voice suddenly dropped.

“Tell me, Sasha. What exactly did I do that was so confusing to you?”