Poisoned Gifts for a Sickly Duke

In a world where power hinges on reputation, Claire battles family betrayal and a scheming Duke. As secrets unravel and love blooms amidst a backdrop of intrigue, can she navigate the perilous path of ambition and desire while uncovering the truth that binds them together?

Prologue
I had two childhood friends, but neither of them liked me.
The one they fancied was my sister Grace, as delicate as a willow swaying in the breeze.
I, on the other hand, was born with immense strength and a ruthless heart.
When Grace came of age, the gifts they asked me to deliver mysteriously became poisoned, leaving her bedridden and unconscious.
I became the venomous woman everyone in the capital avoided like the plague.
Yet Duke Henry Caldwell sent someone to propose marriage, taking me as his bride to ward off ill fortune.
Word had it that Henry was sickly and frail, and he married me only because my fierce nature could suppress his misfortune.
Before the wedding, Little Miss lectured me, insisting I must never reveal my true character to Henry.
On our wedding night, Henry lay ill in bed, his eyes filled with apology:
'I hear you had your heart set on Lieutenant Jack Williams. I'm truly sorry for snatching you away from him.'
Lieutenant Williams was one of my two childhood friends.
Thanks to him spreading that rumor throughout the city, my reputation couldn't have been worse.
I gritted my teeth, remembering Little Miss's warning, and feigned fragility as I said:
'How could I blame you, Husband? I simply couldn't tell the difference between a man and a dog...'
Henry chuckled softly. 'To make amends, I won't refuse anything you desire, my Lady.'
I immediately perked up but politely asked, 'You... are you sure I can?'
My exceedingly frail husband turned his head away, coughing twice. 'Please be gentle with me, my Lady.'