#Michael in stockings and a maid dress would be good

[revengeoftheantichrist]

What Kind of Man

Warnings: Arranged Marriage, Creepy behaviour

AO3  <<<Previous

Chapter 2: Home Sweet Home

You were jolted awake by a dip in the road, causing you to smack your head on the side of the window where you were leaning. You heard a snickering from below you and felt something on your lap. You looked down to see Michael looking up at you, grinning like a Cheshire cat. “Sleep well my dear? you looked so comfortable, so I thought I’d rest my head.”

“We’re almost here” Michael said, as he got up from your lap to the other side of the carriage.

You looked out of the window, expecting to see some sort of manor house. However, you were met with the sight of a large castle. You rubbed the sleep out of your eyes to get a better look; it was as if something from your childhood fairy-tales had come to life. Yet, in the gloom of the morning clouds it looked more ominous.

The carriage came to stop at the entrance of the castle. Michael helped you out of the carriage and lead you up to the door, “Welcome to your new home, our sanctuary”. You felt the first of the northern chill, the temperature causing you to shiver. “Come along now, it’s warmer inside,” Michael said as the door opened with a loud creek. You went to step into the castle, when you were stopped by Michael picking you up and carrying you over the threshold. You gave out a squeak as he put you down. Michael lifted your veil for the second time, giving out a chuckle at your red face underneath. “I’m glad you’re enjoying this,” you huffed.

“Oh, I am,” he replied.

Before you could go any further you were interrupted by a woman with short black hair and an aged faced.

“My Lord, I’m glad you’ve come back to us safe and sound,” greeted the women.

“Yes, thank you Mrs. Mead, the journey was quite comfortable”, he replied. “Mrs Mead, may I introduce you to my beautiful bride, the new countess Y/N”. You smiled and nodded at her. “Y/N, this is Mrs. Mead, the head of staff here and one of my closest confidants, should any major problems arise, please speak to her first.”

“A pleasure to finally meet you my Lady, we’ve been eagerly anticipating your arrival. As my Lord mentioned, I am here to make you as comfortable as possible,” she smiled at you. “Please, do come along now, breakfast is prepared, and we don’t want it to get cold now do we?”

Michael held his arm out for you to hold, and you did so, following his lead to the dining room. You looked at your surroundings in awe, you hadn’t seen churches as richly decorated as this castle, one could mistake Michael for a French king with his taste in décor.

You both arrived at the dining room, the table set for two; although, the food presented to you could easily feed five. You began to learn your husband liked to eat; he thoroughly enjoyed his food. Your own appetite, however, was still being supressed by your nerves. Only picking a little at a time.

As breakfast ended, Mrs. Mead whispered something in Michaels ear; he wiped his mouth and stood to leave. “Unfortunately, some important business has come up, I leave you with your hand maid Medina to take you to freshen up and get ready for the day ahead”

He left you there at the breakfast table, while quietly whispering with his head of staff.  A blonde girl that looked to be about 17 introduced herself, “Good morning my Lady, my name is Medina and I will be your handmaid, I’ve been instructed to give you a quick tour and then help you get dressed,” she said.

“it’s very nice to meet you Medina, I do hope I can meet the expectations of the people in this home and this county,” you replied.

“Oh, my Lady your beauty and manners have already exceeded our expectations,” she smiled at you.

Your eyes widened and you started to blush at her words, not expecting them. You got up from the table after wiping your lip, and Medina led you out of the dining room.

////

You finally arrived to your room after your quick tour of the house, you knew you would get lost in the large maze that was now your home, so you’d have to keep someone close by until you got used to it.

The room itself was grander than the rest of the house if it was even possible. You had never seen a fourposter bed that big and you were sure the sheets were custom made. You husband spared no expense in any aspect of his life, not even where he slept. Medina took you over to the dressing table, a rich mahogany with gold detailing. You sat down on the stool and finally removed your white lace gloves, your hands feeling a little cold in this weather. You begin to unpin your veil and hair and Medina noticed you shiver a little. “I am so sorry my lady, I’ll go get the materials to start the fire, all the fireplaces were cleaned yesterday so we haven’t stocked up on firewood yet,” she said and quickly left the room.

You stood to look at yourself in the full-length mirror nearby. This was the last time you would wear white, and you were surprised at how much you liked the dress, fabric handpicked by your husband and handmade by you and your mother. Every detail so meticulously placed. Your thoughts started to go somewhere morbid, the next time anyone would see this dress, it would be dyed black. You shook your head to stop the thoughts of your new husbands’ death, not a place for a new bride’s mind to wander. Your corset suddenly felt so tight and you attempted to unlace it. Lost in the struggle of untying the knot, you didn’t notice Michael enter the room, startled when his gloved hands touched yours.

“Here, let me help you my little dove,” he said. You tried not to make eye contact with him in the mirror as he slowly unlaced you, exposing the skin on your back to the chill of the room. He finally caught your gaze, smirking at you. At last, the only thing keeping you from fully exposing yourself was your arms tightly holding up the front of the dress.

“You look beautiful in white,” he began, moving your hair over one shoulder, giving him a full view of your soft skin. Then running his gloved hand down your spine. You gasped at his actions, the intimate touch of another so foreign to you. The leather of his gloves made your Goosebumps rise even further. He then began to run his fingers along the indents left by your corset, the skin a little tender in those areas, being soothed by the coolness of his touch. His hand finally stopped at the small of your back, his fingers rubbing circles into the skin. He brought his nose the back of your neck, closing his eyes and inhaling deeply, “you smell so sweet, it’s driving me mad,” his words making you flush even more than you thought possible. He placed one single kiss on your nape, making you almost moan out at the sensation. Then, as if he were burned, he suddenly pulls back.

“I hope this room is to your liking, Medina will help you with the rest,” he turned and abruptly left, without so much as sparing you a glance, leaving you standing there in awe.

Medina came into the room, out of breath and carrying the wood to start the fire. “are you okay My Lady, you look a little flush,” she asked.

“oh yes I’m fine I think its just the temperature change.”

“Let’s get you warmed up, we don’t want you getting sick,” she said as she started the fire.

She then helped you to undress, pulling out a periwinkle blue dress.

“Mrs Venebale, the seamstress, will be arriving on Wednesday to measure you properly and discuss preferences with you, for now the Count has selected a few dresses.” She said as she finished lacing you up. You looked at yourself in the mirror and Medina started on your hair, you were happy to do it yourself, but she insisted. You would have to get used to all this extra help.

“Is there anything in particular you want to see my Lady?” Medina asked as she place the last pin.

“I’d like to go to the library if you don’t mind,” you replied, pulling on you matching blue gloves.

////

The Library of the castle was as grand as its surrounding, the thought of so many books for you to occupy your time with brought a smile to your face. The room had shelves going right up to the ceiling, two floors and various moving ladders to reach the highest shelves. This was a dream come true; You wouldn’t be limited to what your family allowed you to read. The sun had started to peak through the clouds a little, illuminating the gold embossing on the spines, the books calling out to you. You selected a book and sat down by the fire, feeling at peace for the first time in a while.

////

When Medina came to get you for dinner, the sun had set. You were lost in your book, not noticing the passage of time. As you arrived in the dining room, you noticed that the table was only set for one.

“will the count be joining me tonight?” you asked.

“Unfortunately, he has important business to attend to, he’ll be served in his study,” replied Mrs Mead.

You sat at the table by yourself, a little lonely without his company already. Yet the feeling of being watched started to creep up on you, persisting throughout your meal.

////

You made your way back to your room, finding that Medina had set up a bath for you.

“Would you like any assistance my Lady,” Medina asked.

“No thank you, I’d like a moment to myself if that’s alright with you,” you smiled. You were not a child, the least you could to is bathe yourself.

You sank into the lavender scented water, relaxing instantly. All the tension caused by your new Husband seemed to melt away. He was a strange man, and you knew he would continue to vex you, so you would need to make the most of your time alone.

As you sunk further into the water, you heard the door creak. When you looked no one was there, when you called out there was no reply. You tried to tell yourself that Medina may have left the door open, but that feeling of being watched from earlier, stared to creep up again.

You got out the bath, quickly drying yourself off and putting your night gown on. Maybe it was the sleep deprivation getting to you that was making you paranoid. You blew out all your candles, leaving the fireplace as the only light in the large room. For the first time since you were a child you wish your mother was here with you, to comfort you and sing you to sleep. You fell into a restless sleep that night, dreaming of strange things.

Dreaming of sharp teeth.

Of cold hands.

Of blood.

And of coal black eyes and pale skin.

Next>>>

[bloodiedskirtts]

Doves & Ravens Fly The Same | Tommy Shelby x Reader

Summary: She should know better than to make her boss jealous

Pairing: Tommy Shelby x reader ( a little Michael Gray x reader)

Word Count: 3.4k

Warnings: SMUT 18+

A/N: Am I back from hiatus? Who knows...But I am a Tommy Shelby stan now, so here is some smut! I’ve added my permanent tag list despite you being here for Stucky but soz

Credit to gif owner.

She stuck out like a sore thumb in the middle of the Shelby Company offices. She didn’t have the right accent, the right clothes or the right attitude to work there. Her crucifix hung against her bosom, hidden beneath the baby blue dress she was wearing. She knew she didn’t fit in here. She just hastily jotted down the notes that Mr Shelby was throwing at her. She nodded her head when he finished and she left before he could snarl anything else at her. That’ what he tended to do when it came to her - snarl.

But as in her hurry to get out of his office, she didn’t watch where she was going and she gasped as she walked straight into another person. A broad chest was at her eye level, leading her to look up to see Michael Gray standing in front of her, a cocky smirk on his face. She couldn’t stop the blush that coloured her cheeks as she took a step back and mumbled her apologies.

“No need for that,” he said. He didn’t have the same accent as the rest of the Shelbys. He was posher, more put together. On the outside at least. Her heart was thumping in her chest, her mouth dry before she heard Mr Shelby open the door behind her.

“We don’t have all day for you to dawdle,” he said in that bored tone that he used when he spoke to her. She nodded, scooting around Michael and going back to her desk. Her eyes focusing on her typewriter and her typewriter only.

                                       -----------------------------------

“Pol,” he sighed, rubbing the bridge of his nose. “I don’t have time for your-”“She’s too young for you,” Polly snapped at Tommy, watching him follow his new secretary out of his office. Just like he did every morning. 

Before he could even get his thoughts out John was blustering into the room. “I think your new secretary has eyes for our Michael.”

Tommy didn’t speak, scrubbing his hand over his face. The silence was palpable and finally, he looked up at his family before him.

“Are you ready to have this meeting or are you going to continue to gossip like old maids? G’wan I have all day,” he drawled.

                                      -----------------------------------

She was gathering her things at the end of the day. Trying to make sure everything was in order so that Mr Shelby didn’t shout at her. She hated when he shouted at her. As she pulled her coat on, she turned to see Michael Gray standing at her desk.

“Can I help you, sir?” she asked in that soft tone that made her different from the other brash women here. What could the accountant want with her after clocking out time? Well after clocking out time...Mr Shelby didn’t work regular hours she had to remind herself every night when she walked home.

Michael just grinned at her, like a cat when they cornered a mouse. He offered her a cigarette and she quickly shook her head, watching as he placed one jauntily between his lips and lit it. 

“What are you doing on Friday evening?” he asked, his eyes focused on her face. She had men try to chat her up before. She worked in a pub for many years, she was used to being leered at. But Michael wasn’t leering at her, no, he was instead examing every inch of her face. And she realised that she was just staring at him unmoving.

“Friday?” she asked again before picking up the heavy diary that sat on her desk. “Well, Mr Shel-”

“I didn’t ask about Mr Shelby, now did I?” he practically purred. “Now what are you doing at six o’clock on Friday evening.”

She inhaled softly, “I’ll be here. Or wherever Mr Shelby needs me to be.”

Michael chuckled, “Well, Mr Gray needs you to be with him. We’re going for dinner.”

She raised an eyebrow at that. “Are we?”

“Why yes, we are.”

                                      -----------------------------------

It had been three months since she started working there and she drove him mad. She was so innocent in a sin house. The way she looked at him like a lost puppy, like she was afraid he would kick her but at the same time eager for the treat he might bestow upon her.

It had been a long time since he had been around a woman like her. Who was so delicate and fragile. Who was actually afraid of him. He wasn’t sure if he liked that she was afraid of him. 

She was too young for him, Polly was right about that. And he had brushed it aside, that he was only interested in her because she was new and, well, wasn’t willing to spread her legs for him like every other woman he encountered nowadays. 

However, this week she had been driving him wilder than usual. He couldn’t get her out of his mind. The smell of her perfume, the twinkle of laugh and the way she looked up at him through her eyelashes. 

The laugh was not for him. No, he had only started hearing that laugh this week. When Michael started to pay attention to his new secretary. Enough attention to bring her out for dinner on Friday night. And he could no longer pretend he wasn’t jealous.

Jealous enough to call her late on Friday night to come into the office. She arrived in a pink dress, it wasn’t fancy. Not compared to what the women on the take wore. But she looked beautiful. 

“Sorry Mr Shelby, I was out,” she said softly. Her eyes not meeting his. She was late, five minutes late, but still late. He had called her home and demanded she be at the office in ten minutes. She had just poured Michael a drink when the call came through. She knew it wasn’t proper to have a man in her house, but there was something about that family that made her want to be a rebel. And so she rebelled.

Tommy watched her carefully as she stood in his office, the moonlight filtering through the room. He hadn’t bothered to turn on the lights yet. He had just arrived a few moments earlier. The place was empty. No one was making bets at 10pm on a Friday. 

“Did you have a good time?” he asked, making her face contort in confusion.

“Excuse me, sir?” she replied softly, watching as he pushed himself up from his desk.

“Did you and my cousin, Michael, have a good time?” he repeated lighting a cigarette. 

She nodded quickly, her pinned curls bouncing against her face. It wasn’t a lie. She liked Michael, he was kind and funny. But he wasn’t...She shook that thought away. 

“You know you shouldn’t mix business with pleasure,” he told her with a tut as he continued to stalk towards her. Where Michael cornered her like a cat playing with a mouse, Tommy was a tiger. There was no mistake about the power behind his movements, however minute they were.

“Why did you decide to go out with my cousin?” he asked softly, as he began to circle her.

“Because he asked me to,” came the response.

Tommy nodded as he took a drag of his cigarette, “And you are just so good at doing as you are asked. Stay late. Come in early. Come into the office in the middle of your night out. You could say no, you know that?”

She shook her head.

“Why not?”

“Because you’re my boss,’ she replied.

"And what if it was Arthur calling or Polly?”

She remained silent. 

“Or your precious Michael?” 

He was closer now, she could feel his body heat against her. If she reached out she could grab him.

“No, you came here because I asked you to. To come in the middle of the night to work. When you knew you would be all alone, with me.”

She didn’t respond as she felt him come up behind her. “Tell me why you came here?” he breathed in her ear.

“Because you asked me to,” she said softly, her voice shaking.

His hands were ghosting over her sides now making her heart thunder in her chest. She didn’t know what to do, but she knew she certainly didn’t want it to stop. The press of Tommy Shelby’s chest against hers, his hands skimming over her. Not touching her, no. Heaven’s no. It could not be that simple. He had to tease her, make her feel what he felt every day for the past week since Michael asked her out for dinner.

“Because I asked you,” he purred again. She could feel the vibration of his voice against her back. “Because you’re a good girl who does what she’s told. So could that I bet if I asked you to bend over my desk with your legs spread you would do it.”

She huffed out and took a step forward.

“Oh, is that a no?” he teased her. “Would you do that for Michael, then?”

“Michael wouldn’t ask me to do that. He’s a gentleman,” she retorted, turning to face him. Showing him just how flushed her cheeks were and the darkness in her eyes.

“Well good thing I’m not a gentleman, then,” Tommy replied as he closed the space between them. His lips crashed against hers in a fierce kiss. She had been kissed before, but not like this. Nothing was ever like this.

He consumed her like a black hole, the only thing that mattered in the whole world was Thomas Shelby. In fact, he was the only thing in the whole world. His hands were finally touching her, cupping her cheeks, roaming her lower back, brushing over her hips. 

No, she had never been kissed like this.

Only Thomas Shelby could kiss her like this. Suddenly she was on his desk, his hands sliding up her legs, to her garter belt keeping her stockings in place. His calloused hands brushed over the sensitive skin of her thighs and she met his eyes in shock. He let his nose graze over hers, as he unclipped her garter belt. She gasped as Tommy Shelby fell to his knees.

She had never expected to see the great Thomas Shelby kneeling, let alone in front of her. He didn’t even kneel in mass. He took her simple black shoes off and then his hands were back under her skirt. Slowly, ever so slowly, he pulled her stockings off. His lips trailing kisses over the now bare skin, from her thigh to her ankle.

She whimpered as he did the same motion to her other leg. She expected him to stand now. But no, he remained kneeling in front of her. His fingers explored her thighs again, her eyes widening as he found her underwear. A wicked smirk covering his face when he hooked his fingers into them and pulled the simple garments off her.

“Mr Shelby,” she breathed, her heart thumping. She didn’t dare call him Tommy. Even with her underwear around her ankles. 

“You are such a good girl,” he told her softly as he pushed her dress up. “And you are going to be a good girl for me. D’ya hear me?”

She nodded.

Tommy looked at her with a raised eyebrow,

“Yes, Mr Shelby,” she replied in a breathy voice.

“Good girl,” he breathed, his eyes pinned on her folds. She was soaked for him, he couldn’t help the pride that swelled in his chest. This good church girl, he knew she went, Polly saw her there every Sunday. She was a good girl, but that made it all the better to have her spread for him. Her pussy pulsing in eagerness for his touch.

And he indulged her. Even if just for a moment, his lips brushed over her core, her clit. He hummed as she moaned for him, it was like music to ears. Her little gasping moan. It sounded so sinful falling from the lips of a woman who prayed. He wondered would she be blaspheming tonight. He smirked as he pulled away.

She whined despite herself.

“Well, I just don’t think you deserve to be treated so kindly,” he drawled, watching her carefully. “You went out with my cousin. Did he kiss you? Did he touch you?”

She shook her head rapidly, her curls falling unpinned. He just frowned not impressed with her answer.

“Did you want him to kiss you?”

Another head shake.

“Did you want me to kiss you?”

A nod this time.

“C’mon, you’re a big girl, you can use your voice.”

“Yes, sir.”

He smirked at that. She really was an obedient girl. He wondered just how obedient she would be. He leaned back on his heels, looking up at her face. 

“Well for being such a cocktease,” he said, “I think you should get a taste of your own medicine. He stood now pulling the tie off her coat that was hanging the chair facing his desk. 

“Hands,” he demanded in a bored tone. She did as he asked, offering him her slender wrists in front of her. He grabbed them, spinning her around to tie her hands together behind her back. “Good.”

He frowned then realising that he had tied her up but she was still wearing that godforsaken dress. He crossed the room to his own coat and pulled out a pocket knife. She opened her mouth to protest but Tommy wagged a finger in her face. Before his knife was dragging across the straps of her good dress. It fell to her feet, leaving her in her slip and bra. But with that knife it wasn’t long until she was standing naked in the middle of Thomas Shelby’s office, her hands tied.

He was, of course, fully clothed in his immaculate three-piece wool suit. Well, he had discarded his jacket at some point, but there were still so many layers between him and her.

“Good girl,” he repeated, like a mantra. “Now where should we start. Oh, yes. On your knees, princess.”

She struggled to get down to her knees without falling face first. But she did. And by the time she was where Tommy wanted her, he had freed his cock, his hand stroking it slowly. The tip was already dripping precum and she looked up at him. She knew what he wanted to do and there was no doubt in her mind that she wanted it too. But she had never...

Before she could think too much on it, Tommy was roughly gripping her face, running his cock over the seam of her lips, like he ran cigarette over his. And she opened without complaint. She could see him smirking like a cat that got the cream when she let out a moan. He tasted so indescribably male, the saltiness of his precum on her tongue. Her eyes focused on his face as he started to fuck her face. There was no questions here, there was no doubt about what he needed and there was no doubt that she would give it to him. 

Tears pricked her eyes as he hit the back of her throat over and over again. She felt him pulse against his tongue. And suddenly he was gone, her mouth empty, salvia running down the corner of her mouth. She was a mess, her red lipstick smeared, her mascara running. And Tommy thought that she was the most gorgeous creature he had ever seen.

But he didn’t speak, he didn’t show any softness as he dragged her onto her feet. He spun her around like a rag doll, pressing her down on the cool wood of his desk. “I am going to fuck you until the only name you remember is mine,” he growled in her ear. And all she could do was give a consenting nod.

His cock, soaked by her spit was brushing over the lips of her soaked pussy. She never knew she could react like this to...anything. She was dripping down her legs, her arousal coating her thighs and well down her legs now. And then her mind went blank as Tommy Shelby slid inside her. His thickness stretching her out like nothing else. She couldn’t help the moan that fell from her kiss swollen lips, it echoed around the wood-panelled office.

“Nuh-uh,” Tommy snarled in her ear, the roughness of his suit scratching against the softness of her flesh. “Good girls don’t make a sound. And you want to be a good girl. Stay quiet for me...”

She nodded her head, her arms crushed between Tommy’s chest and her back as he purred praise in her ear. But he pulled back, his hands resting on her hips as he began his assault of her pussy. He pounded into her like a man starved and she bit down on her lip to stop the screams that begged to break free. She would be a good girl for Mr Shelby. If he wanted her to be quiet she wouldn’t make a peep.

Tears rolled down her cheeks at the pleasure that coursed through her body with each stroke of his cock, with each grunt the gang leader let out and finally he leaned down, wrapping on rough hand around her neck and breathed. “Go on, baby lemme hear ya.”

That’s all she needed to let loose, she screamed loud enough to wake the dead. Words at a loss to her, she begged Tommy to fuck her over and over, screamed to god, Jesus, Mary and Joseph. And Tommy just kept fucking her rougher, harder, faster and her screams just grew and grew.

“Do you think you’ve been good enough to cum?” he growled as he felt his balls start to constrict.

She nodded, “Yes, Mr Shelby. Please, Mr Shelby.”

He hummed in thought for a moment, paused, with his cock buried deep inside her. “Have you?” he questioned again squeezing her throat.

“Please?”

“Do you go out with any of my men ever again?”

“No, sir.”

“Who is the only person you go out with?”

“You, sir.”

“And who do you belong to?”

“You, sir!”

With that one hand crept under her and found her clit. She cried out louder as he stroked it in time with his thrusts.

“Cum for me,” he growled.

And she nodded, her head falling back against Tommy’s chest as she came for him. Her walls contracting around him. Pinning him inside her, his thrusts growing shallow and sloppy as he followed her over the edge. His cum painting her walls as he tightened the grip on her neck.

It was quiet now, their breathing the only sound in the room. She could feel his heart hammering in his chest as he leaned on her back. And suddenly he had pulled out of her, the tie around her wrists gone. Tommy had tucked herself back into his trousers and slicked back his hair. A cigarette between his lips like none of this had happened. 

She didn’t know what to do. Her clothes were destroyed. She started searching for her panties but to no avail. Tommy smirked as he held them up, hanging off his forefinger. 

“Put your coat on, I’ll take you home,” he demanded. She nodded as she put her stockings and shoes on. Fixing her hair as she gathered her clothes and pulled her oversized winter coat on, tying it together with the fabric that tied her down just moments ago.

But it looked like Mr Shelby hadn’t meant any of that. She was just another girl in his employment that he had his way with. And she was ashamed. Ashamed he had used her like this. She followed him out to his car and he started driving in silence.

She sat up when she realised that he wasn’t going in the right direction.

“Mr Shelby, my apartment is-”

He cut her off with a smirk, “I didn’t say I was taking you home tonight. You said it yourself, you’re mine. And I am in no way finished with you. I’m going to take my time with you.”

PERMANENT TAG LIST

@kayleeflower // @savemesteeb // @rainbowkisses31 // @valeriae2903 // @sophiatomlinson23 // @rhiisnotawitch // @mcuimxgine // @randomstoriesofabunny // @marsnothere // @myrabbitholetoneverland // @jessxxoxx // @ka-x-in // @lovely-geek // @lizfawn // @piensa-bonito // @rileyloves5 // @funkenniffler // @writing-for-a-chance // @teawithbucky // @renanyx // @marvelellie // @siriuslyimmoony // @m-a-t-91 // @geeksareunique //@bookgirlunicorn // @justmesadgirl // @buckysforeverprincess // @xxchexchickxx // @jbarnes87 //@sexyvixen7 // @rumoured-whispers // @teenwolfbitches2 // @wildefire // @vibhati123 // @ultimategalaxyprogram // @friendly-neighborhood-lich-queen// @trekkingthroughmiddle-earth // @partlybcrnes // @peaceinourtime82 // @lokickyourass // @twin-skltns // @graces-secret-tommys-love

[talkfastromance4]

For Your Eyes Only-- bodyguard!Ashton [Chapter One]

Summary: Ashton Irwin is the head of security for Princess Alouette who is a kind, gentle young woman. Secretly pining for one another, those feelings will soon come to light as an occurrence will change Alouette’s life forever, and Ashton’s.

Word count: 2k

Warnings: none :)

Author’s note: The title is actually from a 1D song called If I Could Fly lol, while I was listening to the song it made me think of Ashton and Alouette. I don’t mention where she’s a Princess of, somewhere in Europe I suppose. This story is near and dear to  my heart, please give it a chance!❤❤❤❤❤

Masterlist

If you’d like to chat with me, please do so here. I’d love feedback!

____________________________________________

Ashton was head of security for Princess Alouette for three years now. Whoever came in contact with her was cleared through him first and foremost. The Princess was seen as gentle throughout the country and to most on the outside world, they perceived her as naïve and weak. She was loved by many and hated by more who wanted to rule over her but she was as strong as she was gentle.

Being head of her security meant he was with her 24/7 and always in constant contact with others on his team who were surrounded the perimeter of her palace day and night. He ran checks on every single person before they traveled somewhere and Ashton’s circle of trust was small but he trusted them with the Princess’ life.

Those four he trusted were Calum Hood, Luke Hemmings, and Michael Clifford who grew up with the Princess. Michael always referred to her as ‘Alou,’ his nickname for her since they were young because it was too hard for him to say her name.

Alouette has a small circle of people that she trusts as well, and Ashton is at the very top of that list. She trusts her maids and ladies in waiting and her royal visors, but Ashton made sure she was safe wherever she went—even if that meant tight parole and limited restrictions on traveling on her own.

This weekend she’d be traveling to Spain to celebrate one of her dear friends 25th birthday, Neva, a model. It was to be a momentous party lasting a whole weekend and Ashton was already on top of all the travel plans. The flight has been cleared, the cars have been cleared and when they arrive at Neva’s villa he’d speak with her head of security and do a full sweep before letting Alouette set foot out of the car.

“The plane is ready for takeoff when you are, my lady,” Ashton announces rapping his knuckles on her opened cream colored door.

He’s only entered her bedroom twice since he became her security detail; the first was when he heard a loud crash only to find her bookshelf fell into her window. She was in hysterics because some of her book fell to their demise from the 4th floor and Ashton rescued each one. The second time was when she cried out in pain from an illness that caused a very high fever and Ashton carried her all the way down to the car to rush her to the hospital.

Alouette flips her golden blond curls behind her back as she straightens herself from her aquarium, she absolutely adored her fish and all of her other pets.

“Remember to feed them every night before bed, Rosa,” Alouette reminds one of her maids kindly.

“I won’t forget your majesty,” Rosa beams then gives her a quick hug. “Have a safe flight and a fun weekend.”

“I will thank you,” Alouette turns to Ashton and smiles as the other guards grab her luggage. “I’m all set, let’s go.”

Ashton steps aside letting her brisk past him as he follows her down the hall and down the flights of stairs to the main foyer. Her three dogs, Benvolio (German Shepard), Daisy (Rottweiler), and Duchess (Golden Retriever) leaped at her as she passed by. She gave each one her love before promising to be back soon and to be good.

Ashton even patted Daisy on the head, he’s always had a soft spot for her, before continuing his trek to the black Mercedes waiting for them. Andy opens the door and Ashton holds Alouette’s hand as she steps up into the vehicle. Ashton always drove.

The drive to the private jet was also well coordinated. Three other Mercedes accompanied them as decoys, each guard was armed and on high alert as they drove through the city to the Royal Hangar. Alouette has to wait in the car while her luggage is loaded onto the plane and then Ashton and three others surround her as she makes her way to the plane.

“Hello Lou,” Alouette greets the pilot.

“Hello my Princess,” Lou smiles warmly, his round spectacles glinting in the sunlight. “Fine day for flying today.”

“That’s good to hear,” Alouette smiles and moves to her seat in the middle where sweet iced tea is already waiting for her.

“Mr. Irwin,” Lou nods to Ashton.

“Hullo, Lou, glad to hear conditions are good,” Ashton nods then takes his seat opposite Alouette across the aisle while the other three sat near the cockpit.

Once everything is settled and Ashton hears confirmation in his ear pieces he waves up at Lou who closes the door and begins his flight controls. His voice is low to his co-pilot as they go through the controls and Alouette smiles at Ashton.

“Take off is my favorite,” she tells him like she always does when they fly.

“I know it is, my lady,” Ashton grins buckling up. “You have your gum when we reach the altitude?”

Her ears always pop and she snaps open the small compartment near the window to show her stash of gum then gives him a narrowed look.

“You’re the one who makes sure this is stocked,” she teases.

“I know,” he replies smugly, his hazel eyes glinting and she snickers before kicking off her sandals and gets comfortable in her seat.

•••

Alouette waits patiently but grudgingly while Ashton speaks with the villa’s security. She stares out the window with her chin in her hand, gazing at the beautiful plants and trees and counts silently in her head. 

Ashton’s magic number is 270 seconds until he’s appeased with the safety and security before retrieving Alouette from the car, but each time it feels longer than the last.

It feels longer because she’s stuck in the vehicle and she can only watch Ashton rather than be with him. That’s the hard part, he’s with her constantly that it feels weird when he’s not right within arms’ reach. He’s become a constant in her life and it makes her uneasy every time he’s gone for those 270 seconds.

“What’s the number?” Luke, the curly blonde guard in the passenger seat asks.

“Two hundred,” Alouette responds dully.

“I give him 50 more seconds.”

“Nope, it’s always 270. I tell you this each time Luke,” Alouette shakes her head. She’s staring at each entrance of the villa waiting to see Ashton’s tall frame emerge.

“And each time I know he’s going to beat it,” he smiles at her through the side view mirror and she scoffs with a smile.

“Two sixty-five . . . two sixty-six . . . two sixty-seven . . .” she sing songs still watching the entrance, “two sixty-eight . . . two sixty-nine . . .and here he is!” she sits up straighter clutching her bag and phone tightly to her body as Ashton approaches the car, he’s buttoning his suit jacket with one hand.

“Damn,” Luke mutters just as Ashton opens her door and Luke gets out as well.

“And each time you’re wrong Luke,” Alouette says matter of factly standing in front of Ashton.

“I appreciate your devotion Luke,” Ashton says, “but my schedule is never altered.”

“Gotta make my own bets,” Luke shrugs and then there’s shouting in Spanish as Neva makes her own appearance as usual.

“Mi Alondra!” (my lark) Neva exclaims her nickname for Alouette who side steps around Ashton and welcomes her best friend in a hug.

Alouette hugs her tightly and breathes in her tangerine perfume. She misses Neva so much when they’re apart and can’t wait to celebrate her birthday this weekend. They immediately begin gossiping to each other as Ashton watches them fondly. Luke shakes his head slicking his hair back before clapping Ashton on the shoulder so they can unload the car.

The connection between Ashton and Alouette was so palpable Luke couldn’t believe neither one of them has made a move. It was insane but at the same time Luke understood the risks. Ashton would lose his post and Alouette would be in complete danger without him.

•••

That first night, the girls are going out for dinner---which Ashton had already cleared before they even landed--- and his mouth went dry when he first laid eyes on Alouette’s outfit. 

She had on a form fitted maroon velvet dress with lips painted red. He cleared his throat and blinked a few times to gain his composure before they went to the car.

Ashton never sat with Alouette or her friends while they were out in public, he never wanted to intrude but he was always near. He stood a good distance away so he could have eyes on other patrons and every entrance.

Throughout dinner he kept a count on how many drinks Alouette has been consuming, he had to bite his tongue each time she drank on a night out. Usually she was pretty good but when she and Neva were together all bets were off.

He was speaking quietly to Luke when Michael’s voice spoke clearly through their in-ears about a woman and child approaching the girls’ table.

Ashton immediately turned his attention back to the table and took a step forward until he saw it was an elderly grandmother and a young girl about 5 years old. The elderly woman spoke to Neva quickly in Spanish while Alouette smiled at the little girl who appeared to be very shy by half hiding behind the elder woman.

Alouette listened to Neva’s interpretation and nodded happily before holding out her hand to the little girl. Ashton watched in awe yet also awareness as Alouette smiled and took pictures with her.

“Tan Hermosa que eres,” (so beautiful you are) the elderly lady holds Alouette’s face in her hands and kisses both cheeks.

“Muchas gracias señora,” Alouette beams up at her then clutches her hands. She waves to the little girl before she scurries off with her grandmother.

“Te amo princesa!” the little girl squeals just as Ashton approaches the table.

He bends down to Alouette’s head and speaks calmly in her ear, “I saw what happened but are you alright, my lady?”

“I’m great, Ashton,” she smiles up at him and he nods.

“You’re one drink closer to six,” he taps her glass and she scowls playfully at him. “Remember your twenty-first?” he warns with a quirked eyebrow and a small smirk before retreating back to his post.

Ashton remembers her twenty-first birthday vividly.

 She had a club rented out for her and her friends along with other royals that traveled near and far to celebrate the Gentle Princess’ special birthday. Celebrities attended as well and the party was a huge spectacle. Any other head of security would have hated the safety protocol but Ashton was on top of it like always.

There were two guards at every entrance, walk through metal detectors were placed in the main entrance and the bouncers were even armed in case something were to happen.

Before it was time for her to make her appearance Ashton took her aside and handed her a small gift box wrapped in silver paper and a blue ribbon.

“What’s this?” she asked looking up at him with her big blue eyes.

“It’s your birthday, my lady, it’s customary to receive gifts,” he smiles softly.

“You didn’t have to—“

“Just open it,” he chuckles interrupting her.

She sighs and unties the ribbon carefully before ripping into the paper to see the signature Tiffany and Co. blue box. She pulls off the lid and flips over the tissue paper to see a silvered bangle with intricate designs of small diamonds and rubies accented all around the band. Alouette gasped and looked up at Ashton because it was such a lavish gift.

“Ashton! This is really beautiful but completely unnecessary,” she shakes her head watching him as he takes it from the box and unlatches it.

“A Princess always need a signature jewel and what better one than your birthstone?” he hooks the bangle around her right wrist and clasps it shut. “It looks lovely on you.”

“I love it, thank you so much,” she beams.

“Happy Birthday, my lady,” he says sincerely and puts the box safely away in his jacket pocket.

The party went off without a hitch but towards the end of the night Ashton had to carry Alouette to the car because she had one too many shots and too many drinks. He tried getting her to walk to her room but she kept falling against him so he had no choice but to carry her again and make sure her maids helped her in the bathroom.

She was in bed for three days recuperating.

•••

Back to the present, Ashton is walking behind her back to the car and sees the same bracelet he bought her three years ago dangling on her wrist. It warms him whenever he sees it because she’s never taken it off.

The girls have an early night in and Ashton does another walk through of the grounds and checks all the security cameras. He very rarely sleeps, maybe 2-3 hours at most because he’s always on high alert. If anything were to happen to the Princess it would be catastrophic. 

He would go to the ends of the earth to make sure Alouette is safe.

[elym13]

Queen’s Gambit Chapter 5

Yes, I know it has been at least a year. Yes, I am terribly sorry. Yes, I shall try to do better, but for now I offer this humble submission. Note the rest of the story is available at https://www.fanfiction.net/s/12579895/1/Queen-s-Gambit

Chapter 5

It was surprising to Elsa that the silence bothered her. After all those years, she would have thought that being alone in a room, in the inn near the Ledsham estate, would have been a relief —  not a problem. But the silence grated on her nerves, as did the gloves, as did the horrible scenes that flashed through her mind when she thought of Anna. And Elsa had been sitting here alone with her thoughts for hours.

She moved to the window and pushed it open. Behind the inn was a small stand of trees that screened it from the waterfront where they had landed in the very early hours of the morning. Charlotte had secured all of the rooms here, above a small tavern, so Elsa knew she was essentially alone. Carolina and Georg — Michael and Georg she corrected herself — had gone to scout the entrances to the castle. The Comtesse was napping in the room next door.

The open window allowed the breeze to help clear the stuffy room. Cold didn’t bother her, but heat did. Elsa removed her gloves placing them on a side table. Then with her hands on bottom of the window frame she leaned out and took a deep breath of the early fall air, craning her neck for a glimpse of the castle where they hoped, only hoped, that her sister and Kristoff were being held.

This was madness. Anna could be hundreds of miles away from here. She could be hurt, in pain, brutalized. Who knew what her captors were capable of? Anna … Anna could be dead.

The wood of the window groaned as it froze. With a start Elsa pulled her hands from the sill and thrust them outside. A stream of frost and ice shot from her hands into the woods, splintering a tree in its wake. She closed her eyes and tried to control it. Think of something warm, something safe, she chided herself, but that was a difficult task.

At last, she managed to pull the magic back into herself. She shivered, and she felt the trail of a tear running down her cheek. Quickly she pulled her gloves back on and then wiped it away. She was going mad. She needed a drink.

The tavern below the rooms was small, warm, and crowded. There was a carved wooden bar that curved around from the interior doorway, and a few tables scattered around the room. Booths on the outside walls under small windows and a plain red door to the street completed the decor. Elsa felt the urge to flee back up the stairs as soon as she came down them. But she couldn’t stand to be alone anymore, and she was in no mood to try to wake the Comtesse let alone talk to her. Plus she was going to have to deal with strangers in the immediate future without the armor of being royalty. She might as well start doing that today.

Elsa took in her surroundings trying to decide where she should land. The bar was occupied by a line of men, farmers by their dress but not peasants. They wore the dress of people who worked hard but had enough money to enjoy themselves at a bar and had more than one set of clothes to wear when they went there. The booths and tables were occupied by a more mixed crowd. More men than women for sure, but some couples sat with each other enjoying food and drink. Two tables were occupied with what Elsa assumed was a local militia. They were clearly military men, most wearing swords, all in coal black jackets and pants with brilliant silver buttons closing the jackets up to their chins. There were, of course, no other single women. But fortunately there was one empty table, and it was there that Elsa sat.

“What can I get fer ya, luv?” The barmaid called as she deftly avoided the hands of the militia men.

“Wine, do you have wine?”

“Aye.” The barmaid looked Elsa up and down. “But it’s not cheap. I’ll have to open the bottle ya know.”

“Oh, I can … I mean, her Excellency the Countess de Artois has made arrangements.” Elsa decided on the Avalonian version of the title.

“I see.”

Elsa felt the bar maid’s eye pierce into her soul, or whatever place lying came from. It felt strange, insulting … humiliating Elsa thought, to have someone question your word let alone your ability to pay for what you asked for.

“I’ll have to ask him,” the bar maid gestured with her head to the stout man behind the bar, the owner. “Sure you don’t want sumthin’ else?”

“No,” Elsa answered firmly. “Wine, if you please.” She watched the woman saunter away, resisting the urge to send a chill wind up her skirt. Maybe it would warm up her soul.

“Girl, if you need someone to share your wine. Me and the boys would be happy to help.”

It took Elsa a moment to pinpoint who was speaking. But when one of the militia men winked at her, she knew she had her man.

“No, thank you.” She answered and then fixed her gaze across the room. This tavern could use a painting or two.

“We’d even pay fer it if you’d come over here.”

Elsa imagined a fine work she would call “The freezing of The Highlands” as a mural across the far wall.

“Oi, don’t be rude. We just wanna talk.”

The others chimed in, “Don’t mean no ‘arm girlie.” “Didn’t yer mother teach you manners.”

Elsa heard the scraping of a chair and then an unshaven face reeking of beer loomed in front of her.

“Shy then. Hows about we join you?”

“No, thank you.”

“Girl, you can’t drink alone. Ain’t right. Ain’t right a girlie sitting by ‘erself.”

Elsa looked away. Then to her utter surprise a hand fixed itself under her chin and pulled her back.

“Come’on luv. Don’t be that way.”

Elsa went rigid and looked him square in the eyes, furious.

“I will thank you to unhand my wife.”

Everyone at the two tables turned. Fitz took two steps closer intervening between the militia man and Elsa. “Back off, mate. We don’t want trouble.”

Elsa’s assailant moved closer to Fitz. “I ain’t yer mate, and you’re the one making trouble.”

“Please darling, go upstairs,” Fitz gestured up the stairs and gave a reassuring smile to Elsa.

“Caro - Fitz. No. You come with me.” Elsa put her hand on Fitz’s arm and squeezed.

“I can’t, dearest. But I shall be up soon.”

“Dearie, do what yer fella says. You don’t wanna be here when we teach ‘im a lesson.”

Fitz took Elsa’s hand off her arm and gently kissed her palm. “Please, go upstairs.”

“I won’t …”

“Go.” Fitz turned Elsa around and guided her to the staircase. “I shall be right up. You must trust me.”

Elsa sighed but nodded and then ran up the stairs.

*******

Fitz turned back and walked slowly to where militia men were standing. She placed her hand on the pommel of the sword at her side. “Now do we have a problem, gentlemen?”

“No boy, it’s you who is got the problem. You don’t got no manners. Don’t respect the military.” Both tables of the militia got to their feet and closed in around Fitz. “Seems you need a lesson.”

“If you ill-mannered buffoons are representative of the military here, then I don’t see why I should.” She looked around at the men surrounding her. “Cowardly as well, I see.” She poked the ringleader in his chest. “If you can’t stand up for yourself.”

“Mind your words boy. I’ll wipe the floor wid you.”

“Outside! Outside!” the man at the bar yelled. “No fighting in here.”

Fitz nodded at the owner. “Of course, my good man.” She started for the door, forcing her way through the circle of men. “Come now, if you’re so impatient to school me. If you are not a coward,” she remarked over her shoulder as she made her exit.

Once outside she looked carefully at the ground surrounding the tavern. It was dirt, packed by the near constant foot traffic. A good 20 feet was clear and hard, stone and root free, but she wouldn’t need that much. There was a set of posts set off to the right, likely for horses. Fitz carefully folded her coat and placed it atop one. She heard the raucous group coming out the door.  She turned and watched them assemble.

“Do you have a second?” Fitz called. She unsheathed her sword rechecking its balance in her hand. It was far and wide the finest sword she had ever held, and it felt like an extension of her arm, a very sharp deadly extension. Steel that was said to be able to cut through other lesser swords. And a gift from her beloved. She would use it well today.

“Loike I need a second, boy.”

Fitz rolled her shoulders feeling her suspenders move and her shirt pull up from its tuck. She would not have to worry about those binding. She noted the traditional military style suspenders on her opponent, two shoulder straps coming together to one strap in the rear. His well muscled arms became apparent as he shed his heavy jacket and tossed it to one of his fellows standing near. His shirt was plain, no stock, as none was necessary with his uniform’s high collar. A collar his thick neck strained against as he brought his sword to the ready.

Fitz brought her blade up in a salute and was not the least bit surprised when the larger man rushed at her with a roar. It was a shame, she thought, she never got his name.

The larger man swung at her head clearly intending a saber cut. He was surprised when Fitz countered by merely moving her head, arm and blade in a quarter turn, interposing her sword between his and her face. Her arm moved back several inches with the force of the blow, but she did not flinch, and he could not reach her. He could not overpower her block even even he leaned in with his heavier body. She blocked his next blow, too, one to the other side of her head, simply by moving her blade, again catching his edge with the flat of her weapon. Her expression was impassive, and if she was working to keep him from reaching her she didn’t show it.

This continued for several long minutes. He tried moving more quickly, swiftly slashing from side to side. He tried varying shots from her head to her body and even one or two to her legs. As he increased his pace his blows had less force, but Fitz knew they were actually more deadly. Finally he tried a lunge at her chest. Fitz allowed his blade to run up hers, deftly deflecting it so it just passed her shoulder. She stopped him when they were hilt to hilt waited until he tried to overpower her one last time and then asked, as they were nose to nose, “Are you done with your lesson?”

When he responded with another grunt and push, she replied, “Good. Now I shall begin mine.”

Fitz pushed back with her weapon but then dropped and ducked under her opponents blade as she disengaged. She turned behind him, and she brought her blade across his back leaving a shallow cut that parted both his suspenders and shirt and left a bloody score in its wake.

The man snarled in pain and whirled. He started a flurry of attacks that Fitz parried while backing up slowly to keep him at range. Then she changed trajectory, abruptly stepping to his left. When he moved his sword to follow her, she feinted a lunge before continuing behind him bringing the tip of her sword across his left side. He swore as blood seeped onto his ruined shirt, but whirled keeping his blade between them. Fitz started a series of slashes at his face and then with a firm double beat dropped her blade. He was forced to block across his body, blade down. Fitz extended and the force of his own block drove her point across his right side. He grunted in pain, and then started a long paragraph of foul language as his pants, no longer held by his suspenders, dropped down around his boots. Fitz thanked whoever was in heaven that he was wearing drawers even if they were not especially clean.

“You bloody cow’s cunt,” the larger man swore. Tripping forward he struck out again at Fitz. This time Fitz easily blocked his blade, disengaged and then performed a backhanded thrust through his hand guard and into his wrist. His hand spasmed and he dropped his sword. Fitz pushed on his hip with her own sending him sprawling. As he went down on his back she kicked his sword aside and then put her left boot on his chest, the point of her sword right over his heart.

“This is not a bloody game,” Fitz said quietly. “It’s life and death. Right now your death.”

“Please,” the larger man begged.

“A quick death here.” Fitz poked at his chest and was rewarded with a small spot of blood that grew slowly. Then she dragged her sword down to his belly, leaving a thin line spreading red, this cut no deeper than the other superficial slashes bleeding into the dirt. “A much less quick death here. Although I will have the pleasure of imagining the pain you will be in as you die, your insides stinking and festering.”

“Please.”

“Or maybe,” Fitz’s blade dropped lower. “I just —”

“Captain Fitzwilliam! Stop that nonsense and come here instantly.” Charlotte’s voice rang out from the doorway.

Fitz sighed and brought her sword up. “You are saved by my employer’s dulcet tones. But I do hope you take your lesson from this.” Then with a nod to his fellows who were standing nearby, eyes wide, afraid to come any closer, she sheathed her sword and walked to the Comtesse.

“Your Excellency, how may I serve you.”

“You can get your arse inside before I have to take a horsewhip to you.”

“I was defending a lady’s honor.” Fitz offered her arm.

“I know what you were doing you idiot. Inside.”

Charlotte dragged Fitz inside and to the bar. Once there she dropped a small pile of gold coins in front of the tavern owner.

“I will thank you in advance for your discretion. And I would appreciate it if after these fine people finish their dinners, you might close for the night.”

“Oh, but nights my best time for business —  with the drinking and all.”

Charlotte added more coins to the pile.

“How could I ever refuse a lady such as you, your Grace?”

“Good. And if you would bring dinner and two bottles —  no four bottles — of your best wine upstairs to my room.”

***************

“How much of a simpleton are you?” Charlotte turned on Fitz once they were in her room. “I am sure the news of a brilliant duelist who humiliated a man at the “Drunken Ox,” or whatever this hellhole is called is not going to remain a secret. We were trying to be discreet.”

“Spotted Cow,” Elsa corrected, then she turned on Fitz, “Carolina, what did you do to that man?”

“He needed a lesson both in swordplay and in how not to offend a lady.”

“But did you …”

Charlotte cut Elsa off. “And you. What in god’s earth were you doing? First you freeze the forest, and then you go unaccompanied into a bar! Women do NOT go into a bar alone unless they want that — ” Charlotte waved her hand  “ — sort of attention.”

Elsa ignored the Comtesse,“I will not have you dueling in my name!”

“Do you not understand that the number of women in the world who can produce ice magically is somewhat limited?”

“Luv, I will not have wretched scum insulting you or any woman.”

“You promised not to duel.”

“In Arendelle. I will not slay your subjects, which really isn’t a problem since they do not insult you. But here this is what one does unless one is a coward.”

“For god’s sake, the two of you. Shut up!” Charlotte raised her voice as much as she felt was wise. “You,” she pointed at Fitz, “Keep that damn —

sword in your sheath until we need it. You,” now Charlotte pointed at Elsa,“Fitz does these things for some god forsaken sense of honor that she holds dear, and that she doesn’t in your kingdom is quite a measure of her love. Also please don’t freeze things.”

Fitz’s tone turned to contrition,“It was my fault, Charlotte. I shouldn’t have left her alone for so long. And she’s never been in a tavern, well one that doesn’t have her portrait on the wall.” She was interrupted by a knock on the door.

“Discreet,” Charlotte muttered, as she gestured for Fitz to open the door. It was a pair chamber maids knocking. They carried both the wine and their dinner, two roast chickens with potatoes and some cabbage dish. “Discreet,” she said again pouring herself a large glass of wine once the maids had left. “A discreet surveillance of the castle. Discreetly making our way into the bosom of Ledsham.” She glared at Fitz. “Georg is in his room NOT causing a fuss. So you will at least tell us what you found. Then you can go tell him dinner is served.”

Fitz took Elsa’s hand in hers and addressed the queen directly. She noted Elsa was again wearing the gloves. “It is very highly likely Anna and Kristoff are here. There are an inordinate number of guards. Two different regiments by the look of it. One being Ledsham’s own, which numbers about fifty men and two sergeants in its permanent full-time configuration and nearly one hundred with three officers at full strength. Then there is another, formed of the same blackguards who accosted you, in those black uniforms. They don’t belong to Ledsham. I don’t recognize them as any regiment from Avalon, and I know them all.”

“What?” Charlotte was surprised.

“Foreign or mercenaries, or quite probably both.” Fitz now turned to Charlotte. “That’s expensive and supports the idea that something in that castle is important enough to guard. That in turn suggests that Anna and Kristoff…” Fitz hesitated, ”That they are well enough to need guarding.”

“Thank goodness,” breathed Elsa, relief evident in her voice.

“Indeed,” agreed Charlotte.

Fitz continued, “We spent most of the day watching the front gate. It’s locked shut and under guard.”

“Not the best news, even if it supports your previous theory.” Charlotte tapped her lips with her forefinger.

“But in the morning, from quite early until almost noon, there is a lot of traffic. Food deliveries and what not. And some servants aren’t resident, so they are coming in as well. ”

“I would bet substantial sums that the guards get tired of unlocking and locking the gate. Plus there will be the confusion of two chains of command.”

“Indeed,” Fitz agreed, “Although the guard will be composed of the best men.”

“At let’s say, 7 am? Do you think the sergeant will reward his best men with an 7 am watch?”

“I would. If the mission needed my best.”

“Yes, and I note you were an excellent officer. In your opinion is that true of Ledsham’s?”

Fitz thought and then shook her head no. What she recalled included capricious orders and blatant favoritism. Of course any unit reflected it’s head. A head that in this case might well be decorating the King’s outer bailey.

“And at any rate,” Charlotte stated, “I would certainly favor my grit in a battle of wills against any non-commissioned foot-soldier.”

Fitz chuckled, “Indeed, they do not stand a chance.”

Elsa was still thinking of Anna and Kristoff. “They are alive, and we’ve found them.” She felt tears of relief welling in her eyes. Fitz pulled her close into a hug and stroked her hair. “And now we will get them back.”

A/N: Art by Comickergirl; Patronage by @grrlgeek72, who was also the fine hostess at my artistic retreat when I was able to walk, think, visit the lake, and most importantly write. Proofing by @grrlgeek72 and @thegeekogecko, but all errors are because I ignored them adn continued to write.

[ladylaurana]

Fates Worse

It wasn't the first time The Mists had rolled in to change everything, friends turning to strangers, new challenges ahead. Still, every time Laurana couldn't help but feel a spike of fear, always reaching for Christoph, so scared that they would get separated somehow.

It was cold as she was enveloped, fingers grasping at empty space, The Mists almost suffocating, filling her lungs and all senses as she could almost feel herself move without moving. Sunlight beat down on her face as it receded away, causing her to frown. The sun never shone in Barovia, she had often joked that was what made her so well suited to the climate. People bustled around her, colourful fabrics and rich smells surrounded her in a familiar marketplace. "We're out! Christoph, we're free!" She turned to look at her lover, only for fear to coil in her stomach at the empty space beside her. She looked around, panicked.

No Rowan, no Rezzi, no Mavis or Girda. No familiar faces. She was alone in this ocean of people, in the marketplace just outside the gates to her Father's castle.

Perhaps they had just been sent back to where they were originally from? Her family easily had the resources, mundane and arcane, to track down her friends. It would be fine. Maybe Prianna had gotten out and she and Rowan could set up a life together without fear of The Mists tearing it away.

Well, there was only one thing to do; and she strode towards the open castle gates, breezing past the guards without being stopped, but there were a few odd looks. Well, she had to admit she wasn’t quite at court presentability, but this was her home.

Oh worse, Court was in session; and she could hear the whispers following her as she marched through the halls with purpose, not the serene gliding that she was meant to walk with. There just wasn’t time for that.

Whispers might have followed her through the halls, but the room fell silent as she entered it. The petitioner, Lord… Gaizin she thought, didn’t he have a son he’d tried to marry her to at one point, stared at her in poorly concealed fury at her interruption. Mother looked like she’d seen a ghost, that was a point, she didn’t know exactly how long she’d been gone… Father was looking at her expectantly, brow furrowed. “I’m back; and I need help because I don’t know…”

She trailed off, Father now looked like he’d just had a mouthful of spoiled milk. What was wrong? Oh, right, manners! Amazing how easy it was to forget when no one was scolding you for any mistakes. Her curtsey was brief and abrupt, far from the ones she used to stress so much about perfecting. There just wasn’t time! “My Lord Father, Your Grace, as I was saying, I’m back but my companions aren’t and I need to-” There was someone in front of her, fingers like a vice on her upper arm. Why was Michael cutting her off? He should be helping her!

“My sister is obviously tired from her obviously stressful journey. Perhaps formality can be put aside this once to allow her to rest before she presents herself to Court?” His voice was smooth, always so good at knowing what to say and how to smooth ruffled feathers.

She heard Father speak up, “I’m grateful my daughter has returned to us safely, but yes, perhaps it is best she take time to recover herself.” Oh, he was mad at her. Wouldn’t be the first time. Michael’s fingers tightened on her bicep and she was less than gracefully pulled from the receiving room, Michael hissing in her ear. “What were you thinking just storming in there, looking like this, without even announcing yourself?” Looking like…? Oh, yes, she was in one of the dresses she’d gotten in Barovia. It was different, but it was far from the indecency Michael seemed to be proposing.

“I need to find my friends, no one seems to be listening to me on that. I know some of them are from the Sword Coast, so I just needs some scrolls of Sending or the like. Could you stop pulling me so hard!” She tried to plant her feet, but Michael’s grip was insistent, marching her towards her room as he ignored her protests, but at least he wasn’t berating her any more.

They stopped at the door, Michael letting out a long suffering sigh before tucking an errant lock of hair behind her ear, letting go of her arm. “Rana. You’re home, you’re safe. We can find your… companions later. Let me look after you for now.” His eyes were tender as he looked at her, and she felt most of her indigence fade under his expression. He was worried about her, had been worrying about her. She let out a low breath and nodded, Michael smiling at her and opening the door, ushering her inside. “Archimedes has let the maids know to draw you a bath, he’ll be here in a little bit. He missed you.” She let herself be moved, smiling a little. Of course, just the raven missed her, not her brother at all.

Maids bustled in through the door, dragging in a large tub and pails of steaming water, followed by the fluttering of wings as Archimedes flew through the door and landed on the foot of her bed. Tiberius scampered out from his pouch at her waist, eager to meet up again with his friend. She smiled a little at the display, barely noticing her brother dismissing the maids. “What…?”

“Do you really want to be surrounded by gossiping maids, or do you want to relax?” Michael asked her, like it was the most natural thing in the world. “Now let’s get you undressed.”

A bath would be lovely; and it was just Michael… She reached around the back of her dress to the laces there; and he moved over, gently spinning her on the spot so he could undo them for her, apparently wanting her to do as little as possible. He always did fret over her exerting herself too much. The dress came loose and he started to push it from her shoulders, pausing for a moment and gently running his fingers over one of the love bites Christoph had given her the other night, a flush rising to her cheeks at the memory, Michael making a soft “Tsk”-ing noise, but didn’t comment, a small blessing. The dress fell to the floor and she obediently stepped out of it without having to be told; and she could almost feel Michael smile at that before his long fingers started to undo the layers of petticoats that were so popular in Barovia and she’d taken a fancy to. They too fell to the floor; and his hands gently ran over the sides of the corset she was wearing, something else unique to Barovia, not quite the stays she’d grown up wearing. But Christoph had always seemed to like how it drew her waist in; and surely Michael was just puzzling over the strange garment for a few moments before starting to undo the knot at her back, pulling open the laces and eventually peeling the article from her entirely, letting it drop to the floor.

Warm hands lifted her, and she let out a soft squeak; she hadn’t been expecting that, removed from the frills and fabric and placed back down next to the crackling fireplace, Michael spinning her to face him again, a small smile on his face as he bent down, gently tugging off her boots as she braced a hand against his shoulder for balance. Now she was just in her chemise, it was good she was next to the fire, forgetting how cold the castle could be after the cosy warmth of the windmill. Boots off and carelessly tossed towards the large pile of fabric on the floor, Michael pressed a soft kiss on her forehead. “I’m going to go and get you some fresh sheets and a clean chemise, you enjoy your bath and Archimedes will be here to keep you company.”

She gave him a small nod, wetting her lips for a moment before asking softly “Can you at least try a Sending for Christoph? Captain Christoph Athelrod?”

She wasn’t sure what the look behind his eyes was in that moment, his smile seeming a little forced, but he nodded, her clothes in his arms as he left her alone. She let out a long breath, walking over to gently pet Archimedes and receiving an appreciative croak in response. “I missed you to.” She pulled off her chemise, rolled down her stockings and stepped into the gently steaming water, letting out a soft noise of appreciation as her muscles already relaxed. She was pretty sure none of her friends would begrudge her a hot bath.

Laurana let herself sink under the water for a moment, it wouldn’t be a bad thing to sleep, to rest and search for them, for him, in the morning. If nothing else, she would probably be the easiest to find; it wasn’t as if her family wasn’t notable. They would find each other; and she could finally show them, him, everything she wanted to. They would read vast libraries and cause such scandals in society, but everything would be fine.

Michael stepped back into the room as she breached the surface, smiling over at her and laying her a fresh chemise on the bed. He walked over to her, picking up the sponge left for her and starting to gently wash her shoulders as she drew her knees up to her chest. She’d grown up bathing with an attendant, but it was normally one of the maids… This was just Michael being overly protective of her again, but she reached up and took the sponge from him and he gave it up without protest, going to sit on her bed and watch over her.

The actual cleaning process of the bath was quick and efficient, too long of having to share one small tub. She stood up, facing away from him, looking around for the towels, only to feel one draped over her shoulders. “Thank you Michael,” stepping out of the bath and drying herself quickly in front of the fire. She wrapped herself in the towel as she went over to the bed, Michael studiously looking away from her as she changed into this fresh chemise, she could see that Tiberius had already started to burrow himself under the covers of her bed, Archimedes watching her movements. She gently stroked the bird once again, her brother almost stiffening a little as she did. “Thank you for taking care of me Michael.”

“It’s quite fine. You know I’d do anything for you Rana.” He stood, Archimedes hopping over onto his shoulder, always seeming too large to be comfortable but apparently they made it work. “Get some sleep, we can discuss things tomorrow.” He turned to smile at her as he was in the threshold, starting to close the door to her. “Within a couple of days, it’ll be like you never left.”

[ramblingthoughtsofayoungadult]

The Aristocrat-Michael Gray Imagine

Requested: Yes

Warnings: none just fluff

  “Never thought that I’d be givin’ a speech at Michael’s weddin’ nor did I think that he’d convince a girl as lovely as Y/N to marry ‘im,” Tommy began.

   All the guests in the reception hall of the castle chuckled, including the bride. Y/N covered her mouth with her hand daintily, as she had been trained her entire life to do. Michael, on the other hand, rolled his eyes but smirked at the best man.

   “But to be serious, none of us could be happier for Michael and Y/N. She’s made him into a better man----to be stronger and more thoughtful. Many men think that once they get married their lives are over and they’re tied down. That’s not the case; if it’s the right person, then life is just beginning.” Tommy lifted his champagne glass in Michael and Y/N’s direction. “With that being said, a toast to the happy couple.”

   The expensive champagne only added to Y/N’s elatedness. Surpisingly, she hadn’t had any second thoughts or wedding day jitters as her mother claimed she would. Y/N was positive of only a few things: Pablo Picasso was a genius, white is only appropriate in the summertime outside of weddings, and she was terribly in love with Michael Gray. For the past twenty four years, Y/N had no idea that she was capable of loving someone so much----the closest she ever came was for her two dogs. But Michael was different, sweet but tough and one of the smartest people Y/N had the pleasure of meeting. 

   “How much longer do we have here?” Michael asked as he kissed Y/N’s cheek.

  “What? You don’t like having our families fawn over us for four hours?” Y/N teased.

   After Y/N accepted Michael’s proposal, she warned him about how elaborate aristocratic events were, especially weddings. She’d had to convince her mom not to do a four day affair but rather three. There were several hundred guests in attendance, including several members of Parliament and different European monarchs, and they all had to be impressed. There were centerpieces consisting of blush roses and geraniums set on every guest’s table at the reception. Crystal chandeliers suspended from the ceiling, casting a beautiful golden light over the guests. The food was the most decadent in all of England: a choice of lamb chops, lobster and potatoes, filet mignon and asparagus and creme brulee or chocolate mousse for dessert if they didn’t want any of the y/f/c cake. The wedding was going to be the event of the season.

   “I would get more food, but I’m stuffed,” Irene, Y/N’s best friend and maid of honor, whispered as she leaned towards Y/N.

   “I told you that no one would leave this affair hungry,” Y/N muttered back. 

   Irene and Y/N had known each other practically their whole lives. Irene’s mother had been Y/N’s French tutor and often Irene would come to the humble castle that Y/N called home and they would practice French together. Two years ago, Irene left Lancaster to go to Birmingham for work even though Y/N insisted that she could get her friend a job. But Irene also longed to get out of Lancaster and see what else England had to offer. Y/N was incredibly comfortable in Lancaster, seeing as she was the baroness of it, and never felt the need to leave it. Sure, she’d traveled to Paris, Nice, Milan, Dublin, London, and Glasgow but those were always short term visits she made with her parents. For months, Y/N and Irene wrote each other until Irene convinced Y/N to visit her that past summer. Y/N’s mother frowned upon Small Heath as soon as Y/N told her about her wish to visit Irene. However, Y/N managed to convince her that nothing grand would happen if she visited her friend.

   How wrong she was. 

  Y/N met Michael on her first night in Small Heath. Irene worked as a secretary for Thomas Shelby and insisted that they go to the Garrison. 

  “It’ll be a right laugh, Y/N, I promise!” Irene had pleaded.

  She had been wearing a sapphire blue flapper dress, light stockings, and shiny silver heels. A feathered headband was in her bobbed hair and she had a pleading look in her eyes.

  “If it’s cleaner than the rest of this town, I suppose it is alright.”   Y/N couldn’t help but be curious about pubs seeing as she’d never been in one. Her mother always told her that pubs were for “randy men and prostitutes”. Well, Irene was hardly a prostitute and she seemed to enjoy the Garrison. It was a bit exciting to be rebellious since Y/N had always been a stickler for rules and being proper in any situation.

   Minutes later, Y/N was walking down the street with Irene, wearing a beaded silver dress with matching heels. The streets smelled like rubbish and tobacco and a few men yelled unsavory things at them that made Y/N blush.

   “Goodness!” Y/N muttered to Irene.

   “What, you’ve never been cat called before, Your Highness?” Irene teased. 

   “No, can’t say that I have.” Y/N paused. “Peasant.”

   Irene gasped and playfully smacked Y/N’s arm. “I am by no means a peasant, Mi’lady.”

   “Then stop calling me by these titles, I’m just Y/N tonight.”

   “Very well then. You should know something about the Shelbys as well as the other men who are going to be in this bar.”

   “They’ll be several sheets to the wind, I know.” 

   “It’s not that, I never exactly told you what they do.”

   “They don’t just keep books and run factories, then?” 

   Irene shook her head and they slowed their pace to the Garrison. “They do, but that’s only for show. The Shelbys are involved in transporting alcohol to America and other illegal activity.”

   Y/N nodded as the realization dawned on her. “You work for gangsters. How long have you known?”

   “A little over a year now,” Irene said. “I overheard one of the meetings Tommy was having with this big Jewish fellow and there was talk of guns and men. It wasn’t hard after that.”

  Y/N nodded again. “Thank you for tellin’ me.”

 “Do you still want to go because we can go to a different pub.”

  “Nonsense,” Y/N said with a smile, “I’ve never been around gangsters before.”

  Her father always said that Y/N’s curiosity would kill her one day and Irene always agreed with the sentiment. While Irene was fine with change for logical reasons, Y/N had a tendency of pushing the envelope whether it be finding out how long she could stand on a horse’s back while it trotted or getting too close to a tiger. On the other hand, it was this curiosity that led her to meet Michael.

   Almost as soon as they walked into the pub, Y/N was suffocated by tobacco smoke and the smell of whiskey. The music was loud and only a few flappers were dancing with the men in suits. It was a whole new world to Y/N and she was more than happy to observe it. Irene pulled Y/N to the bar and ordered something, but Y/N couldn’t hear it. She sat down on the stool next to Irene and fidgeted with her pretty clutch.

   “Oi, their drinks are on me,” Michael had said from behind her.

   Irene had rolled her eyes. “Michael actin’ like a proper gent, what a surprise?” 

   Y/N had laughed before turning around. When she saw Michael, she stopped laughing and straightened up. He was wearing a charcoal gray suit with a red handkerchief in the pocket. His light eyes were trained on her and he had an easy smile on his face. 

   “And who is this?” Michael had asked.

   “Y/N, I’m a friend on Irene’s.” She held her hand out daintily towards him.

   Michael grasped it and gently kissed the knuckles, making little electric shocks run up and down Y/N’s arm. She smiled at him as he let her pull away. “Pleasure to meet you.”

   “Irene has friends?” A tall black boy sidled next to Irene with the biggest smirk on his face.  

  “Oh, sod off, Isaiah!” Irene had hissed.

  The bartender handed Irene two whiskeys and she handed one to Y/N, who stared at it in confusion.

  “Never had whiskey before?” Michael had asked.

  “No, closest I’ve had to it is scotch, I suppose,” Y/N said.

  “Posh,” he’d said.

  Y/N raised an eyebrow. “Is that a bad thing?” 

  “Not at all.”

   The whiskey burned down Y/N’s throat but she did her best not to cough in front of Michael. They wound up talking the whole night and dancing to several songs. She learned quickly that he, Isaiah, and Irene worked together but Michael had a higher ranking position than Irene and Isaiah did. If Michael was a gangster, he certainly didn’t act like it that first night. He behaved like a complete gentlemen but there was certain toughness to him that Y/N guessed he would need if he was a gangster.

   That night, Michael walked Y/N home since Irene had disappeared with Isaiah. The streets were practically deserted but there was still some noise here and there.

   “I can’t believe you’ve never been to a pub before,” Michael had said.

   “Never got the chance to back home, had other things to concern myself with.”

   “Where are you from?”

   “Lancaster.”

   Michael whistled. “Very posh. Thought Irene was a bit posh when we first met but Birmingham’s changed her a bit.”

  “Yes, definitely. Then again, she never had to be as proper as me.”

  “Why’s that?”

  Y/N hesitated. “Because I’m a lady.”

  “A proper one?”

  “Yes, baroness of Lancaster. I hope this doesn’t change what you think of me.”

  “No, not at all, but I would’ve guessed you were a princess.”

  “Stop.” Y/N grinned and squeezed his arm.

  “I suppose since we’re being honest with each other, I should tell you what I actually do for the company,” Michael said.

  “There’s no need, Irene already told me.”

   Michael’s eyes widened. “Wouldn’t your family frown upon you getting involved with someone like me?”

   “I didn’t know I was getting involved with someone like you.” 

   “Well, you would be if you accepted my invitation to tea.”

   He was so confident that it was almost sickening and Y/N liked that about him. She accepted his invitation and tea turned into drinks which then turned into the pictures and eventually, Michael asked Y/N to properly meet his family.

  “Mum’s been talkin’ my ear off about meetin’ ya,” Michael had said as they walked together once.

  “I must say I would love to meet her and the rest of your family.”

  Michael had told the family of Y/N’s aristocratic background and they were on their best behavior, mostly. Polly had made up everything nice at her house and made tea. Everyone was so lovely that Y/N couldn’t believe that they were gangsters. Tommy and Arthur, Y/N could believe, but not the rest. Perhaps all criminals weren’t as bad as the papers made them out to be.

  That summer went by quickly and Y/N was almost depressed when she had to go home. She never felt so bad about going back to Lancaster but it hurt that she couldn’t take Michael back with her.

  “You sure you can’t stay here?” Michael had asked at the train station.

  “I’m positive. My duties as a baroness have been on hold for far too long,” she’d said with a sad smile. “I’m going to miss you terribly.”

  “I’ll miss you as well.”

  Michael hugged her tightly and Y/N could feel hot tears of sadness burning in her eyes. She wished she could take Michael with her but he had his own business to take care of.

  She pulled away and delicately kissed him, only to have him hold her face and intensify it. Once he let her go, she looked down in bashfulness.

  “We shouldn’t be doing that in public, it’s not proper.”

  “Whoever doesn’t like this can sod off,” Michael said. He grabbed her hands and made her look at him. “Marry me.”

  “What?”

  “I wanted it to be more proper and I had a ring in mind, but I can’t wait any longer. I love you more than I thought I could love anyone else. If I didn’t ask you now, some fancy bloke would have stolen you from me.”

  Y/N couldn’t stop the smile that spread on her mouth. “I love you too, Michael. No one could steal me away from you. I’d love to marry you.”

   Now, Y/N’s parents were beaming at the fact that Y/N had married a respectable young businessman. Michael and Tommy did a great job in helping Y/N convince her parents that the Shelby Company Limited was a legitimate legal business. Her parents knew that the Shelbys were once gypsies but they covered that up quickly once they realized that Y/N was much too in love to care about that kind of thing.

   The only person who was as happy as Y/N’s parents was Polly. She treated Y/N like another daughter and made sure that she was alright throughout the whole day. Polly even went as far as to sneak into Y/N dressing room before the wedding to tell her that she was the best thing that Polly could have asked for her son. It was sweet and nearly made Y/N cry off all her makeup, but Polly managed to calm her down before she had to walk down the aisle.

   After another hour of drunken speeches, dancing, and titilating conversation, Y/N and Michael were seen off to their honeymoon. Y/N kissed Irene’s cheek and hugged her tight while Michael accepted even more congratulations from his cousins and family. 

   When they got in the car and started driving off, Y/N sighed. It felt like a huge weight was off her shoulders. 

   “We did it, we’re married,” Y/N said.

   “Yeah, and I’ve finally got you all to myself.” Michael grabbed Y/N’s face and kissed her.

    She smiled as she let herself melt against Michael’s strong body. They hadn’t been able to be really affectionate with each other for the past three days since it was inappropriate to do such things in front of an audience. All that pent up energy was presenting itself as Michael pressed Y/N against the door of the car, kissing her and allowing his hands to roam her body.

   “Michael,” she muttered as one of his hands began to trail up her leg. “The driver.”

   “He has to keep his eyes on the road,” Michael said before descending onto Y/N’s neck.

   Y/N bit in a moan and pressed her hands against his chest. “We’ll be on the train soon enough.”    Michael groaned and pulled away reluctantly. “Why do you have to torture me?”

   “Good things come to those who wait, dear.” 

   And they did, several times in their suite in Florence and many more times when they got back to their place in London. The first few months of marriage were complete bliss: Michael would surprise Y/N with flowers, Y/N cooked for Michael, and they couldn’t seem to keep their hands off of each other. It was everything anyone wants in a marriage. 

   However, the blissfulness stopped when Y/N received a letter from her mother one evening.

  “What’s it say?” Michael asked. 

   Y/N sighed. “My Uncle Edward has died of cardiac issues.”   “I’m sorry,” Michael said. 

   Y/N’s eyes scanned the page. “And my father is being named earl because my uncle had no children.”    “What does that make you?”

   Y/N set the paper down on the table. “Our proper titles are duke and duchess, but I will be a lady.” 

   “And what does that make me? A duke?”

   “Yes, but everyone will refer to you by ‘Your Grace’.”

   Michael raised an eyebrow. “I thought that the titles went lower when you marry a commoner.”

  “It is not a grand issue seeing that I was a baroness.” Y/N grinned at Michael. “Congratulations, Michael, you are officially a part of the British monarchy.”

  They had to go to Lancaster for the funeral and for Y/N’s father’s instatement as Earl of Lancaster and her mother’s instatement of Countess of Lancaster. Y/N and Michael were formally made Duke and Duchess of Lancaster as well. 

  When Michael returned to work the following day, he didn’t hear the end of it.

  “Can I get you some tea, Your Grace?” Lizzie asked with a snicker.

  “No thanks, ‘m fine,” Michael griped as he tried to go over the papers in his grasp. 

   “Stop botherin’ His Grace, Lizzie, he’s got important work to do!” John teased as he leaned against the doorway. 

   They both shared a laugh as Michael silently cursed them in his mind. 

   “I wouldn’t keep that up if I were you,” Tommy said as he passed them. “He technically has the authority to have you all hung.”

   “He wouldn’t do that though, would you, Michael?” John asked.

   Michael shrugged. “I’d be less inclined if you lot let me do my work.”

   John and Lizzie went off to do their respective jobs and Michael grinned to himself. Being a duke was going to be a lot of fun. 

[bffhreprise]

Entry 320

 As I drove up the long drive of Somerset Estate, I was certain that I shouldn’t be here.  My family was very well off, but there was no way Dad could maintain this place very long without going bankrupt.  I was supposed to be having a job interview today, not entertaining some incredibly wealthy playboy.  James always seemed so nice on T.V., but… how was he even affording all of this?  The driveway was lined with sculpted bushes, and the very large, fantastical fountain had to be expensive to maintain.  The three-story mansion stretched on-and-on to both sides.  What type of best friend makes this much money helping people out?

 I slammed on my breaks when someone stepped out in front of the car.  Did I hit him!?  I hadn’t slid, but there was snow all around… except on the driveway.  Jumping out of my car, I found a tall man standing there.  “What are you doing!?  That’s dangerous!”  My brain finally registered the beautiful features of the man’s face.  Despite his height, he wasn’t that old.  This was James Michael Somerset III.

 “Sorry.  I didn’t want you to miss the house.” he told me, casually stepping closer as he smiled at me as if I hadn’t almost hit him with my car.  Who could possibly miss this house?  He had called this a ‘house’.  “You’re Iris Storm, correct?”

 I wasn’t certain what to say and couldn’t figure out how to talk at the moment.  I wasn’t dressed for my interview, and had been planning on leaving without doing the interview, but this was James.  He was famous enough that I knew about him without being a video game maniac.  Why was he so handsome in person!?  I always thought there was some special effects or makeup helping him.  What if he’s wearing makeup now?  Wait… he had said something… Oh, yeah.  Am I Iris?  I nodded.

 “I’m James Micahel Somerset III.  Ready for the interview?” he asked me, still smiling.

 “Well, I… I guess?” I asked, looking back to the car where the business-like ensemble Mom had bought me waited.

 “If you need a minute, we can step inside out of the cold.” he suggested.

 “Would that be weird?  I mean if I change clothes.  I didn’t expect you to be standing out here.” I admitted, regretting it as the words left my mouth.  What was I even doing here?  My eyes roamed over the insane beauty of the place.  “Is this really even the business?  Looks more like a mansion.  I didn’t see any pictures of it on your website.  I shouldn’t have applied.  I’m sorry.  I’ll go.”  I needed to leave.  I wouldn’t fit in here.  They probably dressed as butlers or something daily, which would drive me nuts.

 Life with four older brothers hadn’t prepared me for tea parties and talks about stocks.  Father took care of his business.  My brothers and I… well, we caused trouble for one another half the time if I was honest.

 “Nonsense.” he stated as I started to turn.  “We’re both here, let’s get inside and start this interview.  I’m sure whatever you brought to wear would have been marvelous, but there’s no need to change.  I half-expect some of my friends to still be in their pajamas.”

 “Pajamas?  You have friends living with you?” I asked in surprise, trying not to picture a bunch of gorgeous guys sauntering around in pajama bottoms.  James probably had a six-pack under his… Wow.  His clothes looked expensive.  There was a subtle sheen to his shirt, and he was wearing a tie while at home.  I felt his strong hand touch my shoulders, guiding me toward the door.

 “We at Best Friend For Hire are all friends, though not everyone who lives here works for me.  I understand that you graduated early and wanted to get working to save for college.”

 “Huh?  Yeah.  How did you know?” I asked in surprise.  I had only told my parents that I wanted to get a job and pay my own way last week.  They still insisted on helping, but how would James know?  Had Dad called to look into this company?

 “I do read applications that make their way to me.  There has also been a background check already, so any information that wasn’t in your application is from that, such as your tendency to literally shock your brothers.” he replied as if nothing he said was out-of-the-ordinary.

 “Wh-What!?” I asked, not letting that slip.  He knew!  How!?

 “I would advise you and Mick to be more careful out in public, but that quality will help you fit in here.” he continued, completely undisturbed by the idea that I could produce electrical shocks at whim.

 “Who are you!?” I came to a stop, realizing his hand had dropped away after I was following him inside.

 “As I told you, my name is James.  I’m the owner and chief executive of Best Friend For Hire.  You do understand what we do here, correct?” he questioned, his blue eyes staring into me as if he could see the secrets inside my skull.

 “Umm… You act as people’s friends.” I replied, trying to remember what I had read on the website.

 “Working here, your job will be to take on whatever role is necessary to be the best possible friend for whoever hires you.  You’ll be required to do some studying here specifically for your job, but you can also study on your own toward degrees instead of attending the university as you had planned.” he explained, sounding as if he were telling me what he expected of me.  “If you ever intend to step up from part time to full time, you do have that option.  A room is already set aside for your use if you ever decide to move in or simply stay the night.  We also have a company truck that we use to help clients and employees move.”

 “I’m confused.  Am I already hired?” I asked to clarify what he was saying.

 “Sorry.  I’m completely terrible at giving interviews.” he admitted with a small shrug.  “Simply stated, my company needs more people, and I didn’t see any red flags in your profile.  If you’re interested, Mila will show you to where you can complete the paperwork, not that we really use paper for much.”

 A pretty girl with brightly-dyed hair came running toward us impressively fast, but she didn’t seem out of breath as she exclaimed “James!  Who is she?”  There was a sparkle in her eyes as she stared at me, smiling as if I was the best person to ever walk in here.

 James looked from the girl to me and said, “Iris, this is Emma.  Emma, Iris.  Please be warned that Emma will quite likely try to hit on you.  If you need to file a complaint, Mila will assist you.”

 “Hey!” exclaimed Emma, punching his arm.  “Don’t listen to the man-slave.  He’s just jealous that I stopped flirting with him after he got engaged.” she insisted with a grin.

 “Have you?” he questioned, sounding doubtful.

 “Obviously!” she exclaimed, looking at him as if daring him to argue.  Apparently satisfied by his lack of comment, she asked “Can I give her the tour?”

 “I’m taking Iris to fill out some forms, but I can notify you when she’s finished.” came a voice from behind me.

 I spun to find a very short, extremely beautiful girl in a maid outfit.  Her long, auburn hair stretched clear down to her calves.

 James quickly said, “Iris, this is Mila.  She runs the house and numerous other things.  You’ll quite likely get her confused with my fiancée at some point, since they look nearly identical.  The maid outfit should help you tell them apart, since Alma wouldn’t ever wear one.”

 “She might if you ask nicely.” teased Mila with a mischievous smile.  “This way please.” she told me before turning and walking away.

 I quickly followed after her after glancing at James, who nodded encouragingly.

 Mila commented about the decor as we walked, but my brain had trouble listening with the wonderful smell of cinnamon baked goods in the air.

 Noticing my distraction, Mila said, “Ah.  Yes.  The kitchen is just through here.  Would you like to try a cinnamon apple muffin?  Marco, our chef, got a request for them, so he decided to play with some variations using slightly different seasonings for each type of apple he selected.”

 “Yes, please!  That sounds absolutely…” I started before letting out a small scream and falling backward.

 In a blur, a girl had darted out of nowhere, nearly running into me, and somehow running up the wall to move around me as I fell, flipping off to land staring down at me with wide eyes and a gaping mouth.  She screamed and darted away just as quickly as she had come.

 As I pointed and tried to decide what I was asking first, Mila helped me up, easily lifting me, and said, “A fresh batch of muffins has just left the oven.  Shall we?”  She walked through an open doorway into the kitchen, obviously expecting me to follow.

 “B-But…” I started as I followed her, letting it drop as I saw dozens of muffins spread out on a counter.

 The smell had me salivating, and I found myself wanting to grab some of each type.

 “Marco, this is Iris, our newest employee.  Would you mind if I acquisitioned a platter of muffins for her to sample as she goes through the paperwork?” questioned Mila expectantly.

 “No-no.  Not at all!  One needs good food to help with… that.” he replied with a smile, but his attention was focused on one of the ovens.  He suddenly opened it, pulling out yet another tray of muffins.  How many people was he feeding!?  Setting it down, he smiled at me and said, “You need a drink as well, no?  Do you enjoy the tea or perhaps milk?”

 “Orange juice?” I asked, hopefully.

 “Always freshly squeezed here.  Mila has an umm… system.” he replied, spinning into action as he spoke.

 “Excellent.  Shall we be off?” questioned Mila, casually holding a tray of muffins with one hand far too large for a single person to consume in one sitting.  “I can carry your drink as well if you like.” she offered.

 Shaking my head, I took a sip, instantly wondering if they used some special variety of oranges for their juice.  Was this really freshly squeezed?  There was no pulp, which suited me.

 Mila adjusted the tray to carry it with the handles, and the tour continued down a hall before heading up a couple flights of stairs, with Mila easily managing the large tray while looking graceful despite how heavy the thing had to be.

 Sometime during the seemingly endless forms, Mila had brought me another refill for my drink.  Three muffins and yet another drink later, I needed to hit the restroom, which was just as decadent as the rest of this grandiose mansion.

 “Hi!  Mind trying something before you leave?” questioned Emma as I stepped out.

 “Umm… what?” I questioned, not wanting to commit to anything.

 Grinning, she pointed to a couple black, flat things on the floor with fans around them.  “Think skateboarding, but through the air.  We call them ‘zoomies’.  Kayla, the girl who bumped into you earlier, named them.  She wanted to join us, but her brother made her get back to school work.”

 “Through the air.  You’re serious?” I asked, feeling a bit dubious.

 Her grin grew larger, and that twinkle in her eye seemed to grow with it as she nodded.  She grabbed the zoomies, handing one over to me before jogging down the hall.

 Following, I said, “Are we supposed to be running in here?”

 “This ship is too big.  If I walked, the movie would be over!” she exclaimed, looking hopeful as she glanced back at me.

 I half-heartedly chuckled, not sure why she called the place a ship.  It wasn’t, was it?  The computer upstairs was weirdly informed and completely touchscreen.  Part of the contract had explained that there were many cutting-edge technologies available here that required the strictest confidentiality.  After finally getting airborne on the zoomies, I was certain they were included.  Emma and I probably goofed around on them for an hour, and I managed to do a couple tricks with some work, but she moved as if she had been using them for years.

 When I left for home, I kept going through a list in my head of what I could actually tell my parents beyond that I got the job.  I certainly wasn’t going to mention that I got my non-interview in what I was currently wearing.  The zoomies were out.  I didn’t think I could talk much about James without blushing, not with where my head was at with him around.  I’d need to focus on the fact that he was married, so I wouldn’t impulsively do something stupid around him.  This was going to be one strange place to work.

[hazelvt]

She also control high-outline federal cases and entangle federal incendiary cases complicate large electronic watch and wiretaps.ProfileCarl CederCriminal Law 10 BestCarl D. Often, it is option to gain more leniency by rebutter to a minor exhort. Close Being accused of a burglar offense is annihilating and can have serious repercussions. Our clients are everything to us, and throughout every staging of your case, our service will contemplate that. Having the service of being a former prosecutor, curator Uche uses his good of enjoy and his intimate learning of the perjurer rectitude system and his reason to aggressively and quickly ID the weaknesses in the prosecution's cause. Lawyers who usage environmental jurisprudence do not hand staff the same kinds of inclose as attorneys who spindle credit and estates matters. Weisberg has serve clients find contributing outcomes in a diversity of criminal cases, hold the successive: * Assault and battery * Battery * Aggravated battery * Domestic eagerness * Domestic battery * Drug crimes * Possession of girl * Possession of scag * Possession of hemp/cannabis * DUI * Felonies * Robbery * Sex crimes * Criminal sexual revile or sexual onslaught * Aggravated offender sexual reproach or sexual descent * Predatory incendiary sexual assault of a offspring * Prostitution * Theft crimes * Retail larceny * Residential housebreaking * White-collar crimes and more Whether you are facing larceny, DUI or some other enjoin you extremity an experienced criminal advocate help you affray your suit. Navarro is an counselor and associate at Haddad & Navarro, one of the stock’s first thief plead law firms, which has agreeably defended clients in acme and federal hoary collar and no-pale collar incendiary cases throughout the United States.ProfileHope LefeberCriminal Law 10 BestHope Lefeber is an enterprising felon vindication advocate who brings more than three decades of enjoy in federal perjurer defense matters to work in powerfully guard her clients against the state. Carl conducted his first country endeavor within weeks of first obtaining his permission to plot litigation. If anyone indispensably a incendiary defense counselor in arizona we cannot mention you enough!” – Helen F.Discrete and through felon answer likeness Some major cities or rank have burglar prohibition barrister associations. With infinite lawyers to wish from, it can be painful to find the one upright for you. First, when face for “the cream advocate in Maryland” to crop your casing, you want to understand that the practice of equity modify illustriously across different commit areas. Honored as one of the "Top 100 Trial Lawyers" by The National Trial Lawyers," Ms. Even if you and your Skokie murderer vindication leguleian go to trial; however, it doesn’t disgraceful you should waste fear. In other message, 100% of our manner is devoted to to spree impelling and murderer fortify. Weisberg, interpret nicely what the prosecution will do and will construct and animate your denial conformably. You can profess your interrogation or indispensably to 10 Best Attorney.Get Started. What occur if the counselor gotta morbid or befit slap unavailable? At the first courtyard setting, you will not appeal wicked or not conscious. Sometimes a dig will want a trade permission and it is momentous support what punishments can be versed by licence boards. Any teaching sent to the Law Offices of David Michael Cantor before establishing an agent-customer relationship will not be held in confidence, and may be manner for the beneficence of the resolute's other clients or coming clients. As wise Maryland offender lawyers, we assume the extent and we can financial leverage our instruction of the local law compulsion manner, ordinances, and roads to our principal’s advantage when facing serious arraign in attract. Depending upon the circumstances inclosing your case, your answer attorney in Skokie may be qualified to scheme with the region substitute to have the command against you reduced or born. There's plainly too much on the fill in these situations not to have the very pick attorneys practical for you. They consider him not orderly the élite robber and DUI vindication lawyers in Alabama, but one of the best in the rustic. When you’ve had a extend-in with jurisprudence enforcement in Skokie, Illinois and find yourself facing felon charges, you will want a dandy, strong and expert Skokie malefactor lawyer as your valiant vindicator. Would determinately… recite more “Thank you for all the time you put into my action and the tempo that you preserve me. This is why, when you are search portraiture for an agent in a criminal business, it is significant to face for someone you perception is “the utmost criminal counsel for you and your accident.” In veracity, the biggest part of this decision has to do with support an advocate with whom you are helpful and who you handle you can trust. ×NoticeCommunications through this website do not institute an advocate-buyer relationship. Weisberg will duty assiduously to sustain your equitable and your flower interests while try the most beautiful outcome that can be realize. Additionally, improbable many other lawyers who attempt to use a “one size suitable all” coming to defense, we are ready to put in the else manufacture requisite to uncover an define defense tactics based on your particular inclose and unique case goals. AboutBob Callahan has been a fortunate Chicago vindication substitute at jurisprudence for over 15 yonks. Cost could well be high, so toil out up front what mode of repayment performance best for your situation. Mr. Meet your proctor and then find out who, in addition to them, will be operation your cause. Mr. How do you savvy who to belief with your action and your animation? I have wone not-cognizant verdicts in larceny, DWI, incursion, sexual charge, and intensified assault plight. If you have any investigation, give us a call. It is also weighty to catch that some punishments can never be remote from a offender annals. These can be an worthy starting moment to desire your advocate. He has exceed and centralized on intercession-told activities since litigation train, and is haughty of the succession he has realize over the ages in the courtroom. Our criminal lawyers are committed to always being handy for you so that you never have to fret about the situation of your event or what measure you destitution to take next, and we will always be agreeable to correspond your legitimate questions so that you can become lettered decisions as you affray to save yourself. Lefeber has a public account as one of the top federal perjurer defense lawyers. You’re a superior attorney. We're a burglar denial resolute. We are always endurant with our clients, yet we wit how to business with whole deadlines and can take hasty gesticulation to buckler you when requisite. Police officers in Maryland take perjurer investigations and allegations very seriously. In the bay that suddenly up, mate confident Location is set to Ask or Allow. Please contactor me if you are a sap instruct with a crime or necessity my sustain. Without our clients, we wouldn’t be efficient to do what we courtship – uphold Michigan’s accused. Whatever your constitutional egress may be, you can touch confident that our resolute has the necessary suffer and skill to serve you. Devoting his commit exclusively to thief excuse, Richard Jensen treat attempt, entreaty, and place-persuasion business in state and federal compliment throughout Alabama. Skokie defense proctor, Andrew M. There is no objective limit for settle who the “élite Maryland criminal man-of-law” may be. No gimmicks or grating strategy, pious work, conference as well as avail. Accordingly, except and until we formally found an barrister-client relationship, do NOT throw or otherwise convey to us any advertisement you would indigence to be allege in confidence, whether through this website, through any electronic mail dress set on this website, or otherwise. In his over 20 donkey’s as a answer solicitor, Andrew M. Second, the same dilute goes when appearance for the “flower murderer advocate.” The traitor Torah and statutes vary far between jurisdictions, and an procurator who Art in one possession may not be accredited to expertness in Maryland. We are usable 24/7. AboutAs a Chicago murderer agent and a Chicago DUI barrister, substitute Uche has the single increase of being a former prosecutor with over a one thousand auspicious prosecutions under his safety belt. I esteem your friendship and all your efforts and aid me with my license. With students, I always rightly counsel them approximately what fill can appear off a record and what charges cannot. You and the other burglar defense attorneys in your robust did an outstanding thrust!” -Dan D.Outstanding Criminal Defense Attorneys“I am welcome for your help in what is an very crabbed and personal substance for me and my tiller. This attempt dislocate by severe to get a dismission that can be annihilate from a felon history. Fighting diligently maid to insur that everyone receives protection under the United States formation, his mastery counts, and the kind of categories of these cases benefit as evidence that he can forbid you. At the top of your Chrome bole, present the cobweb betake, snatch the green fastening sign Secure. We fabric to shelter our clients both in and superficial of allure. We were both very impressed with your scholarship, manifest employment moral, and mildness. Berlin and his jurisprudence strong. A lucubrator arraign with a crime The goal with every grind is to champion their prospective race and earnings by guard their thief story is clear. Our attorneys have ansate everything from trade citations to homicides. Ceder Art thief defense and DWI jurisprudence in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex (and all surrounding counties), with a exact center on Dallas and Collin Country. She represents individuals and corporations accused of trick, funds laundering, tribute evasion, defense violations, haleness anxiety guile, tax circumvention, bottomry fraud, covin, racketeering, internet crimes ,illegal drug offenses and appeals.ProfileNiaLena CaravasosCriminal Law 10 BestNiaLena Caravasos focuses her Art in federal criminal answer as well as serious possession perjurer action. Weisberg is highly completed at both sides of perjurer equity. Weisberg has nighly two decades of share as a felon defense counselor manipulation incendiary event by upholding the correct of the accused and providing canny and incursive burglar plead strategies in situations proper similar yours. Rather the expert or allure coordinator will find out if you have mercenary an barrister, determine an agent if you cannot furnish one, or replace your event for a copulate of weeks so that you can salary an solicitor. “How Do I Find The Best Criminal Lawyer In Maryland?” We hear this investigation a destiny. No action is too build or too diminutive for our solid to tool. You'll find those attorneys at Kim & LaVoy, S.C. If you're still goods annoy, reproof out Google's protect side. You're religious to go! Reload this Yelp buttons and decide your try again. Some of my most rewarding suit have been representing hard-practical students who made a error. May God always Bless you and force you lucky.” -Ted G.Dismissed DUI fill except my license“Thank you very much for your exertion on my event. If discharge is not likely, our felon attorneys in Houston try to get a pretrial pastime that can also be expunged. Call now for a frank consultation. Needed a criminal barrister and I am successful that I terminal Mr. He devout almost exclusively 100% of licit stratagem to the citizen-accused, and is suffering circularly the province of felon defense.ProfileSelf Help Law FormsAccess to State specific self-help beauty.Get StartedLaw LibraryAccess Law Libraries and Legal ResourcesGet StartedAsk An AttorneyGet connected with a 10 Best Attorney. When we were attendance for the verdict, I was serviceable with any end since I pelt I had been uphold well. The steadfastness is that no such event exists. His clients rage going his sedulousness, his instincts, his capability to strategize, and his committal to fidelity. Even within criminal jurisprudence in Maryland, there is a big variety between pallid collar inclose, misdemeanors, and serious felony plight. He is a Chicago drunk drift counselor. 10 Best Attorneys and Firms For Client SatisfactionTarlika NavarroCriminal Law 10 BestMs. Thanks to his seer as a former prosecutor in Cook and Will counties, Andrew M. Please take the time to interpret through the dissimilar subject that we postman for remanent advertisement. A fortune of individuals who are facing thief charges lack to recognize who the “pick lawyer in Maryland” or “best thief attorney in Maryland” is.  I have earned pretrial dismissals in several other represent of plight including information processing system crimes, pharmaceutical dominion, intensified robbery, and gun suit. Whether you are facing a serious felony impeach, or you are a trade or dig torment throughout the effect of a offender arraign on your career, our Houston criminal lawyers afford aware and forward-looking support. Our intention is to provide you with tip so you can become an literate settlement, and study your constitutional upright. You can also explore present a metropolitan, place, or betake in lieu of. Our Maryland robber defense team works out of an party in Central Business District Rockville, intimate the courthouses. If you've been apprehend or enjoin with a crime, goods a litigation fixed that's expert, skillful, and respected behind you can be the variety in your inclose. As a effect, Attorney Uche has an deep-seated scholarship of how prosecutors and justice enforcement dogberry will develop and prosecute your murderer arraign or DUI.