It is not love bitch but status. The difference why that mf can't let the MC getaway from their engagement is purely because she is that high and way out of that slut. Who would settle with a commoner in an empire when you have the daughter's duke that will back the heck out of your race for the throne even in that crown prince pov he knows how that slut will weaken the authority of his.
I think the ML here probably likes the MC way before that "kissing in the corner" scene. I mean if I were to based he's actions towards MC like there is something there.ლ(´ڡ`ლ)
It is not love bitch but status. The difference why that mf can't let the MC getaway from their engagement is purely because she is that high and way out of that slut. Who would settle with a commoner in an empire when you have the daughter's duke that will back the heck out of your race for the throne even in that crown prince pov he knows how that slut will weaken the authority of his.
I would also its he's obsession and inferiority complex