Responses
Are you unaware of noblesse moeurs? Nobles/royals enjoy fortune but don't enjoy meddling with money. Bargaining or merchandising is as crude activity. Merchants are respected but not admired as they are "crude rich" without noble values.
1) He does not have a noble status.
2) He is from another country.
3) He is a former slave.
He has like the worst pedigree to be co-royal. Nobles value "noblesse" above "money"; that's why nouveau riches are not always well received as they may lack "manners" and understanding of the noble society rules. :U
They introduced the ML as someone richer than the whole kingdom, yet the MC thinks their relationship could bring him down? Dude, money buys everything…
The Duke looks super young and hot, yet they are basically saying he is old and has grown up kids? Wtf?