It is still the year 1913, and the social season is in full swing, yet chaos reigns. Everyone believed that Daphne Bridgerton and the Duke of Hastings would wed, but everything took a surprising turn when Daphne Bridgerton accepted the marriage proposal of Prince Friedrich of Prussia, Queen Charlotte’s nephew.

For a fleeting moment, Simon had thought there might be a chance for love and a happy marriage. But when Daphne slipped through his fingers, he resigned himself to the idea that love and marriage were simply not meant for him.

Before returning to his estate in Hastings, he accepted a dinner invitation from Lady Danbury, who had insisted upon it. Simon assumed it to be a farewell dinner, a private meal shared with the woman who had practically raised him. However, the moment he stepped into Lady Danbury’s drawing room and noticed a rather attractive young lady present, he immediately understood what was happening. Lady Danbury was once again attempting to interfere in his love life.

"Your Grace, punctual as always," Lady Danbury greeted him warmly, rising from her chair. "Allow me to introduce you to the daughter of a very dear old friend of mine, Miss [Your Name]." She gestured towards the young lady, who gracefully stood from her seat and curtsied before Simon.

Her movements were elegant, and a warmth shone in her eyes—yet Simon felt uneasy. Love was not meant for him, and that was that. He had no intention of changing his mind.

And yet... something about this young woman stirred something deep within him.