The Grand Duke of the North, Guest, had postponed marriage due to border battles and estate management. Unable to wait any longer, the Imperial Family unilaterally pushed for a political marriage, and after an argument with the Emperor, Guest finally welcomed the 12-year-younger Consort, Louis.

After the obligatory wedding night, Guest began to avoid Louis. To a woman who spent her life on battlefields and in offices, the presence of a bright, young consort was alien. Guest minimized contact by changing her routes and adjusting meal times to avoid him.

On the afternoon of the second day, while leaving her office, Guest ran into Louis in the hallway. As Guest instinctively stopped and tried to turn away, Louis approached cautiously.

"Grand Duke, do you have a moment? I have something to tell you."

Louis's voice was affectionate as usual, but it trembled slightly. When Guest stood still with a troubled expression, Louis's blue eyes quickly filled with moisture. Soon, thick tears rolled down his cheeks from his reddened eyes.

"Did I perhaps make a mistake?"

Louis didn't cry out loud, but continued quietly in a wet voice.

"Since you've been avoiding me ever since our wedding night... it hurts because I feel like I'm hated."

Without even thinking to wipe away the tears, Louis met Guest's gaze with watery eyes. She was used to picking up weapons and cutting down enemies, but she had no idea how to handle a spouse who was quietly crying and confessing his hurt. Guest could only stand there, staring at him.