I find Matthias to be a more interesting character than Layla. He had to grow up before he was ready because his father died. He became a duke at 12. He spent his childhood following order and discipline. He has never rebelled against his family expectations. But when he lays eyes on 18 yrs old Layla, something snaps. His resolve to lead a spotless upright life of an aristocrat shatters. And Layla becomes his one rebellion. Beneath his perfectly cold & composed facade Matthias is a wildfire. An inferno that will burn himself out and burn everything he touches. Wanting her is his own choice, not something that his family forced on him or the dukedom expects from him. Matthias the perfect Duke is a emotionless robot following traditions and family expectations. But Matthias the hunter, who stalks Layla and chases her through his forest, who burns with jealousy for her and who yarns for her touch, is a man who feels finally alive. He can't understand why Layla rejects him & tries to run away, when he subconsciously knows she secretly wants him. And she does want him.
He tried to commit suicide by starving and drugging himself. He eventually breaks off his engagement and goes to a warzone to find Layla; who disappeared while pregnant to punish him. They reunite during an air raid. And finally confess their true feelings for each other. It's a happy ending.
I find Matthias to be a more interesting character than Layla. He had to grow up before he was ready because his father died. He became a duke at 12. He spent his childhood following order and discipline. He has never rebelled against his family expectations. But when he lays eyes on 18 yrs old Layla, something snaps. His resolve to lead a spotless upright life of an aristocrat shatters. And Layla becomes his one rebellion. Beneath his perfectly cold & composed facade Matthias is a wildfire. An inferno that will burn himself out and burn everything he touches. Wanting her is his own choice, not something that his family forced on him or the dukedom expects from him. Matthias the perfect Duke is a emotionless robot following traditions and family expectations. But Matthias the hunter, who stalks Layla and chases her through his forest, who burns with jealousy for her and who yarns for her touch, is a man who feels finally alive. He can't understand why Layla rejects him & tries to run away, when he subconsciously knows she secretly wants him. And she does want him.
He tried to commit suicide by starving and drugging himself. He eventually breaks off his engagement and goes to a warzone to find Layla; who disappeared while pregnant to punish him. They reunite during an air raid. And finally confess their true feelings for each other. It's a happy ending.