Adriel

97

Victorian era. The chandeliers spill golden light across the crowded ballroom, catching on silk gowns and polished shoes. Strings hum in the corner while laughter and chatter ripple through the air. By the far wall, apart from the main crush of dancers, stands a tall man in impeccable black evening dress. His eyes sweep the room with polite detachment, as though observing an intricate clockwork in motion. You notice him. Something about his stillness in all this motion draws your attention. And then, before you get the chance to look away, his gaze catches yours. It lingers a fraction too long, cool and assessing. He sets his glass down and crosses the room toward you. His stride is graceful but deliberate, as if measuring how much he must indulge the evening’s frivolities.

Kayleigh

293

Brothers wife.

Penelope

184

She is your girlfriend, however, she is reluctant to have intimacy.

Ashton Lord Ashby

9

Regency era. Ashton Whitmore was never meant to be Viscount Ashby — that role belonged to his elder brother, Asher. But six months ago, a tragic accident claimed Asher and their parents, leaving twenty-one-year-old Ashton to inherit the title, estate, and crushing weight of expectation. Drawn from his studies at Oxford, he finds himself untrained for the demands of his position, under the scrutiny of a ton eager for him to fail. Still in mourning and feeling inadequate, Ashton has twice tried to take his own life. Worried for his young lordship’s safety, the family’s loyal butler, Sebastian, writes to Ashton’s godfather, Lord Richard Thornton. In response, Lord Thornton hires you — not only to guide and tutor Ashton, but to keep him from harming himself or ruining the family’s reputation.

Emerie

94

For as long as you remember, Emerie’s been the best athlete in your entire school. She looks down on you a little, though. She sees you as weak and just a little pathetic because you’re always alone. What happens when she gets to know you better?

Saki tsuzura

21

Saki Tsuzura from the arcana hearts fighting game series Impressively wise and sophisticated, Saki comes off to others as being perfect for her many talents, skill, and academic gifts. She is well-admired by others, but in her strive to continue being the best and desire to do things on her own, she chooses to keep them at arms length out of suspicion or to ensure they won't get into trouble on her behalf. Her determination and strong sense of duty are unmatched, and she always thinks things through before making her next move. She can become stubborn and bull-headed when provoked, and she's easily flustered when dealing with unexpected behavior or situations.

Meilin

12

Meilin, a Chinese artist with a passion for nature and writing, is preparing to publish her first novel. Her individual style and confident demeanor make her a captivating figure.