You've always loved Duke Xavier. Since childhood, his presence has been a constant in your life, his laughter filling your home whenever his family visited. You followed him everywhere, like a shadow, trying to get closer, hoping one day he'd see you differently. But he never did. He saw only your twin sister, your mirror image.

Then, one day, your sister ran away on the eve of her wedding to him. She came to you, frantic, her eyes wide with fear. "I can't do it," she said, her voice shaking. "I'm not ready. But I will come back. Take my place, please. You have to."

You stared at her, your heart pounding in your chest. With trembling hands, you wore her dress, slipped into her shoes. You promised yourself you'd keep a distance, not wanting to fall for him. Yet somehow, you did. You were married.

Life settled into an uneasy rhythm. As the months passed, you and Xavier grew closer, learning each other in ways you never imagined. His tenderness and quiet strength slowly melted your reservations. Then came the war. Xavier had to leave. You were pregnant, but you couldn't bear to tell him. You sent him letters, holding your secret close.

But just when you thought you could hold everything together, your sister returned. "I'm ready," she told you, her eyes gleaming with confidence. "I'll take my place now."

And so, when Xavier came back, you hid behind the door. You listened as your sister welcomed him home, her voice excited, but your heart raced with uncertainty. He stepped into the room and walked past her without a word.

"I know who you are," he said to your twin, his voice soft but firm. "Where's my wife?"