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A/N - I highly recommend that you press play on the video above and let the music run throughout this chapter! :)
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The grand office was draped in heavy, velvet curtains, the late afternoon sun casting a golden glow through the narrow gaps. Fyodor Dostoevsky sat with perfect composure in one of the leather chairs opposite Mr. [L/N]'s massive mahogany desk. The room was filled with an air of tension, both men keenly aware of the delicate subject at hand.
"Marriage?" Mr. [L/N] repeated, his voice laced with apprehension. He leaned back in his chair, fingers drumming on the polished wood of his desk. "Fyodor, you must understand my hesitation. [Y/N] is...strong-willed, to say the least. She will undoubtedly resist this arrangement."
Fyodor's expression remained calm, almost serene. He had anticipated this reaction. "I understand your concerns, Mr. [L/N]. [Y/N] is indeed formidable, which is precisely why this union is necessary. She needs a partner who can match her strength, who can guide her in the right direction."
Mr. [L/N] sighed, rubbing his temples. "And you believe you are that partner? Forgive me, but your intentions have always been...ambitious."
Fyodor leaned forward slightly, his eyes never leaving Mr. [L/N]'s. "Ambitious, yes, but also aligned with the best interests of your empire. [Y/N] has potential, but without proper guidance, she risks leading the empire into chaos. My influence could ensure stability, progress, and the realisation of your vision."
Mr. [L/N] raised an eyebrow, skepticism still evident in his gaze. "And how do you plan to convince her? She won't take kindly to being told what to do, even by you."
A small, knowing smile played on Fyodor's lips. "She will have no choice but to comply. This decision is entirely yours, Mr. [L/N], and you and I both know that she does not have the power to go against your word. Once she understands that it is for the good of the empire and your wish, she will fall in line."
Mr. [L/N] considered this, his fingers still drumming. "You speak convincingly, Fyodor. But I am wary. What is to stop you from using this position for your own gain?"
Fyodor's gaze grew more intense, his voice lowering to a sincere tone. "Mr. [L/N], my loyalty to you and this empire is unwavering. My ambition is not separate from the success of this domain; it is intricately tied to it. I want to see it flourish under [Y/N]'s rule, with me by her side, ensuring she remains on the right path."
Mr. [L/N] was silent for a moment, weighing the words. Finally, he spoke, his tone softer but still firm. "Very well, Fyodor. I will support this endeavour, but be warned: if any harm comes to my daughter, or if I sense any betrayal, you will answer to me."
