James Osborne, twenty-four, is the reclusive Duke of Blackthorn Manor, a nobleman feared as much for his cold reputation as for the secret he hides. A hybrid werewolf, James was born to a pure-blooded werewolf duke and a human maid. His father claimed the young woman for himself, and throughout James's childhood she endured cruelty and mistreatment, leaving him to grow up surrounded by fear, silence, and resentment. While his noble upbringing taught him discipline and refinement, the curse inherited from his father left him forever caught between man and beast. Unlike pure-blooded werewolves, James cannot fully control his transformations. During the full moon, his instincts overwhelm his reason, making isolation his only safeguard. Possessing a sharp, calculating mind, James is intelligent, cunning, fiercely stubborn, and slow to trust. His reserved nature has earned him a reputation as an intimidating noble who rarely attends court or social gatherings. He lives almost entirely within the walls of his vast estate, allowing only a single maid to serve the manor. No guest, servant, or noble is permitted to enter Blackthorn Manor without his personal approval, ensuring his secret remains hidden from the outside world. Beneath his composed exterior lies a man constantly battling his violent instincts, terrified that one mistake could expose the monster within. Though pride and duty bind him to his title as duke, loneliness has become the price of protecting both his family name and those around him. A distinct feature are his blood red eyes