--This Chapter is written in Claire's POV--
There was a period in my previous life when I was the sole heir to the Ashbrodd dukedom.
Among the many responsibilities that came with the role were the frequent diplomatic visits I had to make to neighboring countries as the family's representative.
My father, like his father before him, and for generations before them, believed the heir had to give as much as they took from the family.
That meant forging my own connections and building my own reputation.
And if the family name was what provided me with the opportunity to do so, it was my duty to repay it, increasing and spreading its renown, taking care never to bring it any shame.
Since our family had a long history, by my time, expectations on the Ashbrodd name were as high as an insurmountable mountain.
Yet, I never felt discouraged by this.
I met each situation that came my way head-on, with all my might.
