#guest oc . henrietta
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percyverance · 1 year ago
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last pair of attacks done for @sorapen - thanks for a great artfight!
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knives-out20 · 4 years ago
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Inglourious Teens #2
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Fandom: Inglourious Basterds (2009)
Pairing: Joshua Margolis (OC) x Aldo Raine
Warnings: Gay asf, Secret relationship, Babyism, Swearing, 
Notes: I missed these two, enjoy.
Joshua sat at his desk in his room, re-reading through his copy of Dracula by Bram Stoker. He hummed the song that had been passed down to him from his great-grandfather, looking up at out his bedroom window. This gave Joshua a clear view of the estate’s orchard, beautiful as ever under the summer sun. “Django, have you always been alone?” He chirped, flipping the page of his book.
Joshua’s bedroom door creaked open. “Young Master Margolis?”
Joshua looked up, and turned around. “Phillip, good afternoon,” he smiled in welcoming. “Now, how many, uh, how many- how many times have I told you to call me ‘Joshua’?” He reminded.
Phillip, his butler, chuckled, twirling his graying mustache. “Apologies, sir, but you know I cannot do that.”
Joshua put his bookmark in its place, closing the novel. “A-Are you at least able to call me ‘Young Master Joshua’, or- or something? You could converse with my parents- as long as you, um, mention me giving you the thumbs up to call me such,” he suggested, standing up.
Phillip nodded. “Yes, sir.”
Joshua crossed his arms. “What did you, uh, need me for, Phillip?”
Phillip cleared his throat. “You have a guest, sir. Young Aldo Raine, your friend!” He answered.
Joshua’s eyes lit up as he walked over. “Oh, wow! Really?” He asked. “Where- Where is he now?”
Phillip stood aside. “Right by the front doors, Young Master. But I’d advise you to be careful; Henrietta just polished the floors, and we’d hate for you to trip and fall, she’d be feel terrible.” He warned.
Joshua pat Phillip’s chest in thanks. “Yea, yea, uhm, thank you Phillip,” he replied, racing out the bedroom. Joshua ran down the hall, almost tripping down the stairs and around the corner. “Aldo!”
Aldo turned around, hands in his pockets. “Joshy!” He happily returned.
Joshua giggled with glee, running over and jumping into Aldo’s arms for a hug; Aldo caught him, and did that small spin he always did after catching Joshua in a leap-hug. “I’m so- so glad you’re here.”
“Ah, I jus’ hope I’m not interferin’ with nothin’, y’know?” Aldo smiled sheepishly, hands lingering on Josh’s shoulders after gently putting him down.
“No, I was just reading Dracula. Y’know, the, ah, the Bram book. Nothin’ c-could ever be too important to pass up seein’ you, Aldo!” Josh said, cupping Aldo’s cheek.
Aldo leaned into the touch, quickly pulling away when he saw Phillip. He nodded in greeting, “howdy, Mr. Phillip.”
Phillip nodded back. “Young Master Raine, long time no see. Could I offer you anything?”
Aldo shook his head. “No, sir.”
“You- You- You can leave us be, Phillip. I’ll call you if anything, uhm, arises, m’kay?” Joshua instructed.
Phillip bowed. “Yes sir,” he swiftly left the two secret lovebirds alone.
Joshua broke out into a wide smile, hearing Phillip’s footsteps fade into the distance. He leaned in, placing a sweet kiss to Aldo’s lips. “I missed you.”
Aldo’s found himself pulling Joshua into his arms. He pulled away to speak, “y’only jus’ saw me a couple days ago, sugar.”
“Doesn’t mean I’m not allowed to- t’miss ya when you’re gone, sweetie.”
Aldo chuckled, pulling him in for a deep hug. He inhaled Joshua’s scent, eyes falling closed. “Y’smell like a dream,” Aldo commented.
“I know, right? I smell like a whole goddamn fuckin’ orchard,” Joshua squealed, hands balling into fists.
Aldo planted a kiss on Joshua’s neck before he unlatched himself from Joshua’s body.
Joshua hummed in thought. “Ooh, ooh! Aldo, we got a- a new, uh, mare in the stables, wanna come see the gal? Shines like silver in the moonlight, shit, I swear!”
Aldo put his hands up, gesturing for Joshua to calm down. “Sure thing, doll. Lead the way.”
Joshua grabbed Aldo’s hand, leading him through the house. He led the way out back, over to the stables. Joshua led Aldo inside, eyes scanning around the ranch. “She’s right...There!” He pointed, pulling Aldo across the room. 
Inside the specific cage stood a clean, white mare.
Aldo whistled, “whats her name, now?”
“Sybil, her- her name’s Sybil. Fastest gal I-I’m yet to see, I tell you. A, uh, true beauty, though” Joshua introduced, reaching a hand in. “C’mere, Sybbie.”
Sybil slowly approached, close enough for Joshua to softly pat her head.
“She’s really a strong one, I love her. She gets along w-with Moby over there-” Joshua used his other hand to point halfway across the stables to a black horse. “They look, uh, mighty fine together, heavily eye-catching.”
Aldo put his hands on his hips.
Joshua stepped back from Sybil’s stable, turning back to Aldo. “Pretty, ain’t she?”
“Yer prettier.”
Joshua smiled knowingly, blushing. “Stop it-”
“Make me,” Aldo teased, tugging Joshua up against him. He kissed Joshua’s nose. “Prettier than any creature I’ve ever come across, ‘n’ will ever come across. Even fuckin’ better when yer all mine, Josh,” Aldo muttered.
Joshua swept Aldo’s hair out from over his forehead, getting a clearer view of those dazzling blue eyes. “Ain’t nothin’ got anything on y-you, Aldo,” he added, slowly licking his lips. “Walk with me through the- the orchard?”
Aldo held Joshua’s hand in his own. “As always” he nodded, leading them out.
Joshua turned to wave Sybil goodbye, letting Aldo lead him to the mouth of the orchard. “Funny how this is an orchard, a-actually.”
“Really? How’s that?”
Joshua grinned. “‘Cause you’re the apple of my eye, duh” he answered, eyebrows raised.
Aldo scoffed, pushing Joshua against a tree. “Alright, y’little-”
Joshua laughed, nudging Aldo off of him. He leaned against the tree. “That was smooth, darling, c-c’mon” he whined, fake-pouting.
“Yea, yea, yea, it was, whatever. Come on, Joshy,” Aldo gestured for Joshua to walk with him through the orchard. He linked their pinkies, starting their walk through.
”Want- Want me t’ask Philly for some apple cider, later? You know my family only makes the, uhm, the- the best in the entire state” Joshua offered.
“Mmh, sure thing” Aldo breathed out, glancing around. “Where’re yer doggies?”
“Raskolnikov ‘n’ Razumikhin?” Joshua arched a brow.
“Yea...with ‘em weird names from that Russian story.”
“Crime And Punishment by Fyodor Dostoevsky. You could a-always call them Raskol and Razu, Aldo” Joshua recalled. “They’re inside the- the, uh, the house, fast asleep when I last checked. Missed you almost as much as I did. Almost.” He pointed back in the direction they came from.
Aldo stole a kiss from Bobby’s cheek. “No one could ever miss me a much as you do, eh?”
“Never ever.”
Aldo went from linking their pinkies to holding Joshua’s hand; he gave it a quick squeeze. “Can’t think of anythin’ I could ever be more damn grateful for, sunshine,” he whispered.
Joshua grinned, not knowing if he could ever possibly love Aldo more than he currently does. “I love you, Aldo.”
“I love you too, Joshua. Let’s sit down for a sec?” Aldo asked, walking over to a shady tree. He let go of Joshua’s hand, sitting down.
Joshua nodded, plopping himself down beside Aldo. He took Aldo’s hand, bringing it up to his plush lips to kiss his knuckles. “Think we-we’ll, uhm, ever be able to be who we are, freely?”
“As long as we fight for it at any time we can, sweetheart” Aldo responded, glancing over. “If not, we can run off together. Hop into somewhere in France, or Canada. Or stay, if it’s all the same t’you,” he listed.
Joshua leaned back, Aldo’s arm snaking around his neck. He leaned his head on Aldo’s shoulder. “Any-Anywhere’s fine, honey, as long as it’s with you.”
Aldo cooed softly. “Ain’t that sweet?” He teased.
Joshua snorted, “shut up” he mumbled. “Think you- you could stay the n-night, tonight? It could be arranged, uhm, quite quickly.”
Aldo puckered his lips in thought. “I’d have t’run back ‘n’ ask my folks, later. I’d love to, though.”
Joshua sat up straight, turning to Aldo.
Aldo looked back over at him, raising his knuckles to graze Joshua’s porcelain cheek. “Yer beautiful, y’know that?”
Joshua looked him up and down. “Hard not- not to, with your, uh, constant reminders. Beat it into my brain, at- at this point,” he giggled.
Aldo leaned in, giving him a loving kiss. “I only say it ‘cause it’s true, darlin’” he hummed.
Joshua closed his eyes, pushing into the kiss silently. When he pulled away, he stayed close enough so that their noses were touching. “I love you, Aldo” Joshua found himself repeating.
“As if I didn’t already know that” Aldo smiled. “I love you too, Joshy.”
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alj4890 · 4 years ago
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None But You
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(Thomas Hunt x oc*Amanda) in a regency era romance as requested by @pixieferry
A/N: I believe we are nearing the end. I'm both excited and saddened by such. There will be at least one more chapter if not two for our story to conclude. It will live on, I know, in requests (which I have already received, LOL, so thank you for that). Shall we begin the end?
Masterlist
@graceful-popcorn​   @krsnlove​   @alleksa16​   @hopelessromantic1352​    @pixieferry   @emceesynonymroll​   @buzz-bee-buzz​   @hopefulmoonobject​    @rainbowsinthestorm​   @lxaah11​   @my-heart-beats-for-ya​ @everythingmarvelsherlockspn​ @friedherringclodthing​   @aworldoffandoms​   @ab1901​   @i-bloody-love-drake-walker​​  
Summary: Lord Hunt hosts a party a few days before the wedding for his neighbors and tenants. All come to meet the lady he is to marry. During such a gathering, Lord Ryan comes to a decision concerning Lady Millie. And of course, the wedding day has come...but will all go according to plan?
Chapter 14
Thomas, dressed for riding, paused on his way out when he heard the sound of ladies laughing and talking. He moved silently toward the drawing room and peeked inside.
Something about seeing Amanda hosting tea for some of the ladies that lived near Kirkwood Manor made him feel, well, happy.
She had easily settled into the role of mistress of his home.
He couldn't wait for the four remaining days until their wedding to hurry by.
He stepped inside and bowed to those that called out a greeting. His lips curved when he asked if they would excuse his lady.
"I need to speak with her about tomorrow night's gathering."
The group watched, fascinated at the affectionate expression on his face when he took Amanda's hand.
Once the couple left, whispered questions were asked of Lady Millicent, her mother, and of Lady Lucinda.
"I knew they were well matched." Lucy replied, a secretive smile forming. "When he appeared at Almacks, willingly mind you, I knew that he had fallen in love with my niece."
Gasps of delight were expressed while others urged the London ladies to share more observations.
****************
"Is something wrong?" Amanda asked once Thomas shut the door to his study.
"No." He swiftly pulled her into his arms and kissed her.
Her startled laugh turned into a soft moan from the heat of his kiss.
He smiled softly at the bemused state his kiss had caused. "That was all I wished to discuss."
Amanda looped her arms around his neck. "As much as I enjoy our discussions," she teased, "I am most curious as to what brought this on."
He gave a brief shrug. "I saw you sitting there and needed to kiss you."
"I see." She pressed another kiss to his lips. "Feel free to pull me away whenever you wish."
He chuckled and followed her out into the hallway. "I'll be back soon, my lady." He took his hat and gloves from a patiently waiting Berger. "Lord Gabriel was wishing to see the new construction we did on one of the mills."
"Enjoy your ride, my lord." Her smile was warm when he bowed and lifted her hand to his lips.
Thomas kissed the inside of her wrist before letting it go.
****************
An hour later, many of the ladies left with invitations to visit their homes along with expressing how much they looked forward to furthering their acquaintance with Lord Hunt's chosen bride.
One particular lady remained behind to await her brother. Ms. Harriet Blake, younger sister to Mr. Richard Blake, Kirkwood's vicar, had found kindred spirits with Lady Millie and Lady Amanda.
"Have you ever been to London, Ms. Blake?" Millie asked once Lady Lucy and Lady Henrietta departed to finish the wedding plans.
"I haven't. And please, call me Harriet." She insisted with a bright smile. "Some of the families in Richard's parish refuse to do so, fearing it is somehow disrespectful to the Church." Her nose wrinkled. "No matter how much I insist I have little to do with his sermons."
Amanda laughed into her teacup. "Oh dear. Surely they don't."
"They do." Harriet slumped back in her seat. "Which puts me in the dreadful position of having to keep my teasing nature hidden whenever they are about." Her eyes sparkled with mischief. "My family was always one to have a laugh. My brothers and I played pranks and joked throughout our years growing up. A couple of the ladies that visited you today are the very ones that insist that a vicar and his family be more somber than either Richard or I are used to."
"Clearly they have yet to read the verses where the Lord says to have a cheerful heart." Millie said dryly.
"Indeed." Harriet muttered. "It didn't matter that Richard preached that very subject the following Sunday." She sighed. "Unfortunately, I am unable to stop laughing whenever something humorous happens. And my dear, angelic brother makes it so much worse with his whispered comments." She shook her head, grinning. "There will definitely be no courtship offers from the gentlemen of the more serious minded families."
"Your eldest brother, Sir James?" Millie inquired. "He recently married, did he not?"
"He did to a lady I can find no fault with." Harriet explained. "Theodora has a wicked wit that is the perfect foil for James." She chuckled while stirring her tea. "My dear brother thought himself clever until he encountered her."
"It is amazing to see those we love find their perfect match." Amanda cut her eyes to Millie. "Even if they aren't too happy at the discovery."
"Oh do hush." Millie grumbled.
Amanda ignored her and explained the unusual relationship Millie had with Lord Ryan.
"I'm awaiting the announcement of their engagement." She told her, refusing to acknowledge the glares Millie sent her way.
Harriet smiled at the news. "My congratulations will be given as soon you decide to share it."
***************
Two nights later...
"Seems everyone is taken with your chosen lady." Ryan teased.
Thomas observed as his intended was asked to dance by the blacksmith's nine year old son. His lips curved when Amanda dropped into a curtsy worthy of the king himself.
Her smile was tender as she took his hands and allowed him to spin her around.
His neighbors and tenants had fallen for the lady he had been introducing the past week or so.
Just like he knew they would.
Amanda had entered their homes, eased their nervousness, and listened to their stories and concerns. He had seen from the beginning that her quiet gentleness was precisely what his people needed from their lady of the manor.
And to think, I had almost allowed myself a chance to lose her.
He was pulled from his thoughts when he heard her laughing plea for a chance to rest when some of the other children ran up to her.
"Better go and save her." Ryan whispered. "I think young Brandon will try and steal her away from her if you aren't careful."
Thomas chuckled. The little boy did have a look of pure adoration on his face as he looked up at Amanda.
He made his way past the party guests and eased his way through the children.
"Pardon me." He gently patted Brandon's shoulder. "I need to have a word with Lady Amanda."
The young lad bowed before them and took off to join in on a game with the other children.
"Thank you." Amanda slipped her arm through his, squeezing it affectionately. "I wasn't quite certain how to say I wasn't up for a game of Blind Man's Bluff after Brandon's dancing."
"Summers suggested I hurry and do so before he stole you away." Thomas teased.
She laughed and shook her head. "Have no fear. I think his love for me died a swift death when I expressed my dislike of toads." She looked up at him. "No proposal is imminent, not with little Jane saying she loved them."
"Good. I wasn't quite prepared to challenge him for you." Thomas smiled when she laughed once more.
He led her over to the table that was nearly buckling from the number of pies and cakes the guests had brought.
The weather had turned out clear and perfect for the outdoor party. The surrounding gentry had been surprised when the viscount had invited them and the commoners to a party. Kirkwood Manor had not seen a gathering like this in years, much less combining all who lived nearby.
Word had spread quickly that he was hosting it for a chance for everyone to meet the future mistress. There had not been one refusal to his invitation. Everyone was curious to see the nearly reclusive viscount and the lady he had met in London.
None had been disappointed. The couple made sure to spend time with everyone, thanking them for coming.
When asked about the wedding, the couple explained that they wanted a small service. This party was in lieu of an extravagant ceremony with plans to host a yearly celebration.
Words of encouragement, marital advice, and congratulations were given from those young and old.
Thomas could not imagine a more perfect way to introduce her to the people that she would be over or for them to see how perfect she was.
"Lady Amanda!" One of the matrons called out. "Have you tried the jam tarts? It is an old family recipe that..."
The couple listened as the woman prattled on about her tarts being hailed as the best in the land while each taking a bite.
"These truly are the best I've ever tasted." Amanda answered when pressed for her opinion by the matron.
Thomas took advantage of the woman bragging to her neighbors and excused them.
Amanda laughed softly when he murmured that he now remembered why he had attempted to not host parties.
"I think you have a talent for it." She squeezed his arm. "Everyone I have talked to seems not only fond of you but also has been impressed with this gathering."
"I think they are more fond of the curiosity I cause than of myself." He told her. His lips eased into a smile. "Though I do think that now that they have met you, I am now considered wise for choosing you."
Amanda rested her head against his shoulder. She opened her mouth to say something sweet only to be interrupted by Sir Peter's poetic recital getting louder the closer he came.
"And the angel with hair the color of spun gold, the very one my heart once foretold, is now once again before me." He grasped Millie's hand as she tried to escape. "Thus allowing me to speak on bended knee."
Amanda's lips trembled as she tried to suppress her laughter. "Thomas, did you invite Sir Peter for a particular reason?"
He slipped his arm around her waist. "Why ever would you suspect my motives?" He watched as Ryan scowled at the man trying to woo Millie. "I certainly would never use it as a chance to gain a bit of revenge on our closest friends and their interference in our courtship."
His lady covered her mouth to muffle her laughter when Millie tried to keep the man standing.
"Sir Peter, you mustn't kneel! Please," she looked around at the attention he was drawing, "lower your voice."
"Lady Millie, it has been agony being so cruelly parted from you all these weeks. Our time together in London was not nearly long enough to keep my heart from dying bit by bit from not seeing you." Sir Peter pressed her hand over his heart. "Feel how it has sprung back to life with being near you once more."
"I am flattered." Millie mumbled. "But I--"
"Get ahold of yourself." Lord Ryan snapped, pulling Millie away. "You are causing a scene, sir."
"A man cannot be blamed when reunited with the very reason he breathes." Sir Peter uttered.
"Good lord, man. Do you hear yourself?" Ryan grumbled. "No one feels such."
Millie stiffened. "I beg your pardon!"
"Not now." He warned.
"Oh! You--" Millie's voice rose in irritation.
"Millie," he growled. "You will tell Sir Peter what is in your heart. That will halt his musings."
Her blue eyes narrowed. "And why would my heart cause him to stop?" She stuck her nose up in the air. "No one has yet to claim it."
"Oh dear." Amanda whispered. "What are we to do with them?"
Thomas shrugged while enjoying his oldest friend's struggle with succumbing to a life with the prickly miss beside him.
"I have a claim on your heart!" Ryan snapped. "By your own admission--"
"Merely a slip of the tongue." Millie responded, escaping his grip. "Tis hard to continue to feel anything for a man who does not return my affection."
She smiled warmly at Sir Peter. "Do go on, sir. I have always admired your unique ability to form verses."
Ryan fumed as the two walked off together.
"Thomas, we must fix this." Amanda urged.
Her intended softly groaned before approaching the marquis. "Summers? I think you know what you must do."
"Do not say it." Ryan pleaded. He rubbed the back of his neck. "I refuse to spend the rest of my life with a woman who takes offense to every little thing."
"My lord," Amanda began gently, "Lady Millie is one of the most loyal, sweetest--
"Not you too." He pinched the bridge of his nose. With a deep sigh he turned toward the happy couple. "I am well aware of Millie's attributes." His eyes narrowed at seeing Sir Peter take Millie into his arms for a waltz. "Dash it all! Why the devil is she the one that my heart has chosen?!"
He stormed away from his friends and approached Lord Gabriel.
Millie's father broke into a delighted smile with Ryan's question.
***************
"Sir Chris," Lady Lucy nodded toward a young woman he had met earlier. "What do you think of Ms. Blake?"
"She seems amiable, Lady Bridgerton." He carefully responded.
"I agree." Lucy studied the clergyman's sister. "Mr. Blake's older brother has the barony near Bedford."
Chris wondered why Lady Lucy was explaining all this."
"Ms. Blake came to keep house for Mr. Blake once their brother married." She continued.
"That seems to be the way people do things." He muttered.
"She appears to be a cheerful, bright young lady." Lucy nodded toward the one they were talking about.
Chris followed her gaze. Ms. Blake was standing with her brother, laughing at a story the doctor and his wife were sharing.
"I suspect that it won't be too long before Mr. Blake settles down." She gently tapped her chin as if in great thought. "A gentleman with both fortune and family will be snapped up before he knows what hit him. Poor Ms. Blake. It is hard for a lady to surrender the ingrained need to be head of a household."
"I wouldn't know anything about that." Chris narrowed his eyes playfully. "Lady Bridgerton, are you up to you old tricks?"
"Me?" Lucy placed her hand to her heart. "Why sir, whatever do you mean?" Her eyes twinkled. "I would never want to see a nice young man matched with a lady of equal sweetness."
He chuckled. "Lady Lucy, what would you have me do?"
"Ask her to dance." She gently patted his arm. "Then see what happens."
Chris shook his head. "You're lucky I am so fond of you, my lady."
"I know, my dear." Lucy urged him away. "Thank you for indulging me."
**************
"What do you think of Lady Amanda?" Richard Blake whispered to his sister, once they were alone.
"I like her very well indeed." Harriet responded. "I am most surprised at how changed Lord Hunt is after meeting her."
"Seeing him so happy is a surprise." Richard responded. "After meeting her, I look forward to knowing her better."
Harriet rolled her eyes with a laugh. "Yes, I saw her eyes light up with interest when you brought up your weekly discussions of literature with Lord Hunt." She nudged her brother. "I think your invitations to visit Kirkwood will continue if not increase once they are wed."
"Excuse me, Ms. Blake."
Harriet turned with a smile. "Sir Winters? Right?"
Chris nodded, flashing her a smile. "I was wondering, with your permission Mr. Blake, if I might have the next dance."
Richard eyed him for a moment then his sister's delighted smile. Feeling the brotherly need to tease her, he slowly nodded. "I have no objections if Harry does not."
Harriet's smile disappeared at the nickname her darling brothers declared described her perfectly. Her light brown curly hair was known to have a mind of its own, especially when she first awoke in the mornings.
They still liked to howl with laughter over her plight to tame it.
"Forgive me," Sir Chris looked about. "Who is Harry? I don't think I have been introduced to him."
"Have you not?" Richard continued, his smile growing. "I could have sworn you were--"
"Ignore him, sir." Harriet interrupted. "He is an evil man intent on tormenting me."
Chris's confusions gave way to worry. "This Harry is causing you trouble?"
Richard burst into laughter. "Forgive me, sir. Harry is what I sometimes call Ms. Blake."
"My name is Harriet." Ms. Blake added in case the young man was unaware. Her own teasing smile appeared. "My brothers are not known for their intelligence when it comes to appropriate monikers."
Chris couldn't help but smile as the siblings handled the good natured ribbing with more humor.
As the first notes of another waltz were heard, he bowed before her. "Ms. Blake? May I have this dance?"
She took his hand and allowed him to lead her to the area cleared for the dancers.
Once in his arms, she smiled warmly at him. "I have heard you had a hand in helping Lord Hunt's courtship."
He nodded. "I along with Lady Millicent, Lord Summers, and Lord Rodriguez." His lips eased into a smile. "They were a little too stubborn in their refusing to admit to falling in love with one another. We were there to help give them the necessary push toward matrimony."
Harriet laughed softly. "You should be commended. You did a marvelous job of matching them." She turned her head toward the couple who seemed to only have eyes for each other while they danced. "I must confess with the years I have known Lord Hunt, I have never seen him like this."
"Neither have I." Chris responded. His smile grew, dimples deepening. "Now once Lord Summers and Lady Millie are settled, I will only have to worry about Lord Rodriguez."
Harriet's eyebrow lifted. "Sir, have you developed a love for matchmaking?"
"I believe I have Ms. Blake." He winked at her, causing a delightful blush to form on her cheeks. "There is something so satisfying in being proven right." He leaned closer to whisper. "And to see your friends struggle with the inevitable trip down the aisle."
She laughed out loud, drawing a few curious stares. "Sir Winters, I don't know if I hope you also decide to help myself and Richard find a proper match or pray you never feel the desire to."
His eyes settled on the velvety chocolate color of her eyes before dropping down to the pert, thin nose, and then her lips curved in good humor. "I might know someone who might be your perfect match." His eyes lifted to hers. "Of course, before I can reveal who the gentlemen is, I would need to spend more time with you to gain a proper look at your character."
She shook her head as another chuckle slipped out. "I would suspect nothing less from a professional matchmaker."
**************
"Rodriguez!" Ryan called out. "Have you seen Lady Millie or Sir Peter anywhere?"
"Sir Peter is talking to Lady Henrietta and I saw Lady Millie over by the desserts." Matthew pointed out. "Is something wrong?"
"No. Only the ending of a man's life." Ryan responded.
He marched over to the lady in question. "We need to talk."
Millie turned around with a chocolate éclair. "We do?" She took a bite and ignored his presence. "I do not see what we could possibly have to talk about."
Ryan grit his teeth. "Would you accompany me on a walk, my lady?"
"I've already had a walk," Millie informed him in a friendly tone of voice, "with Sir Peter."
"Yes, I know." Ryan bit out. "Now I need to discuss something personal with you and wish for a secluded place to do so."
"Tempting, my lord, but I believe I will rest here and enjoy these delectable offerings." She finished her éclair and began to search for something else to eat. "Thank you for the off--" she let out a yelp when he gripped her arm and half dragged her away.
"Lord Summers!" Millie huffed. "Let go of me this instan--" she nodded her head and smiled at the vicar. "Good evening Mr. Blake."
"Same to you, my lady." He responded, smiling at the pair as they passed.
"Let go!" Millie hissed once they were out of earshot.
"I can't." Ryan responded in an even tone. "I tried, Millie. Lord knows I've tried to let you go."
Her brow furrowed at that odd speech. Her lips parted to question him, but she remained silent as she followed him further from the party.
Ryan paused in the garden near a bench. "Please sit."
Millie did so without a word of argument.
He kept hold of her hand as he stood before her. "I spoke with your father earlier."
Millie tilted her head to the side. "About?"
"I asked for his permission to ask for your hand in matrimony." Ryan knelt before her. "He said I have it along with his blessing. All I need now is you."
Millie's lips parted. "But you don't like me!"
"I do too!" He snapped. "Yes, you can drive a man to the very brink of insanity, but I would rather be driven crazy by the woman I love than one who I feel nothing for."
Millie's gasp slipped past her lips. "You love me?"
"Would I continuously put myself in your path if I had not already lost my heart to you?" He asked.
"Ryan!" She jumped into his arms and kissed him.
He pulled away for a moment. "This had better be a yes I love you too and want to marry you kiss, or so help me Millie I will--"
"It is!" She said, pulling him in for another kiss.
Just as he responded, she pushed him away. "What kind of morally ambiguous lady do you think I am to kiss a man I'm not intending to marry?!"
He crushed her to him as his mouth captured her lips. Lord Ryan found himself immensely pleased by how pleasant it was to silence her grumblings with such an action.
*****************
A few hours later, Thomas held his glass up. "A toast: to all of you who came this evening to help celebrate my good fortune in meeting the lady who has my heart." He lifted Amanda's hand to his lips. "To our family and friends for helping us plan this and our wedding." He smiled down at them. "And to the day after tomorrow when my new life begins."
Everyone cheered and drank one last toast to the couple before departing for the evening. Once there were only a few remaining, Ryan and Millie shared their own impending nuptials. 
Lady Henrietta dabbed at her eyes as she spoke excitedly to Lucy about the need to start planning the moment Thomas and Amanda finished their vows. 
While the group talked, Harriet leaned over to whisper to Chris. "It appears you have succeeded once more, sir."
"Indeed I have, Ms. Blake." His smile turned tender. "Indeed, I have."
****************
Night before the wedding...
Thomas hesitated at the connecting door between his room and Amanda’s. Knowing the superstitions of not allowing the groom to see his bride before the wedding, had him wondering if he should not join her this evening.
As if sensing his indecision, the door opened and Amanda smiled softly at him.
“I wondered if you were going to join me tonight.” She reached for his hand and tugged him into her room.
“I thought perhaps we should spend tonight apart.” He explained, watching her settle in her bed. “What with tradition and all.”
She laughed softly. “I think given our unusual courtship that we might be encouraging bad luck to visit us if we remained apart.” Her eyes met his. “Besides, I’m not certain that I can fall asleep without having you near.”
His gaze softened at her words, knowing he would not rest either if they were apart. Without another word of argument, he climbed into bed beside her.
The moment she was within his arms, he could feel his body relax once more. He brushed a tender kiss to her lips, smiling when she snuggled closer. 
“Are you nervous?” she asked.
“About what?” Thomas leaned back some so he could see her face.
“About marrying me tomorrow?” Amanda gently caressed his cheek. “Most men seem to be a bit uneasy when faced with the loss of their freedom.”
“As I have told you numerous times, I cannot wait to have you as my wife.” His lips firmed into a frown. “The only way I would remotely feel uneasy facing my wedding is if it were any lady other than you.”
She propped herself up on her elbow and kissed him. “I am very happy to be marrying you tomorrow.”  Her eyes held his. “I had no idea that I could have this much joy in my heart.”
Thomas urged her close for another kiss. He whispered his love for her then urged her to sleep. 
Amanda settled within his arms, smiling at what awaited them in the morning.
****************
Thomas and Amanda's wedding day...
Time, like all things, seems to want to crawl by when there is something you are anxious about and yet seems to fly by in the moments one wishes to hold onto for eternity. For the couple awaiting their wedding day, it seemed to be a bit of both.
It seemed that no time had passed from the party to rushing about to get dressed for the chapel. Servants dashed about to finish their chores so that they could witness their viscount marry the lady they had come to respect and care for.
Lady Lucy was unable to do too much other than blubber into her handkerchief when she saw her niece in her wedding gown. She was appalled at her own behavior but seemed unable to stop.
"Aunt Lucy?" Amanda reached out for her.
"No dear!" Lucy jerked away. "Tears will ruin the satin." She accepted Henrietta's spare handkerchief. "You look perfect, my darling."
Amanda turned back around to critically study her reflection. The gown her aunt had designed for her seemed to showcase all her assets in the best possible way. The rich satin hung perfectly with glistening crystals throughout the skirt. The white material had hints of blue in it to keep her from appearing sallow.
Her lace veil draped over her carefully pinned curls and had a band of red roses holding it in place.
Millie sniffed back her own tears as she gently hugged her. "You look gorgeous."
Amanda returned her hug. "Thank you." She included her aunt and Lady Henrietta. "Thank you all for helping me."
Henrietta clucked her tongue and bustled about to keep her tears at bay. "I would have been upset if you hadn't needed me." She pressed a kiss to Amanda's cheek and fluffed her veil. "We will see you at the church." She gave a tearful smile as she tried to tease her friend. "I'll attempt to stop Lucy from sobbing."
"Oh!" Lucy swatted Hen's arm. "I would remind you of the mess you were when Michael and Cora wed." She gave a quick kiss to Amanda's cheek. "Don't let her dress get caught in the carriage door." She ordered Millie.
The two matrons left in a stream of tears, more teasing, and excitement.
Amanda's lady's maid, Peggy, came inside and dabbed at her own eyes. She went about the room, putting things away.
"Are you nervous?" Millie asked.
"In a way." Amanda admitted. "Not over Thomas, mind you. More nervous that something is bound to go wrong.” She let out a slightly tense laugh. “I’m more worried about tripping down the aisle and having that be what I remember whenever I think back over my wedding day.”
Millie laughed while squeezing her friend’s hands. “I believe Lord Thomas would not allow you to fall. If anything, your clumsiness would only add another sweet moment for your special day.”
Amanda hugged her once more. “What would I do without you?”
“Most likely still ignoring Lord Thomas’s argument that he loved you.” Millie grumbled.
Peggy smiled softly as the two young ladies continued to tease each other. 
“I will be downstairs keeping a watch for the carriage, m'lady."
******************
Evil intent begins...
Outside Kirkwood Manor, Charles and John watched Lord Rawlings' carriage leave with the remaining wedding guests.
"Now." Charles whispered.
The two men, under Duke Viktor’s employment, crept into the servants' entrance and made their way up the back stairs.
The halls were deserted, save for the one maid they saw leaving a wing of the manor.
With a tilt of his head, John led the way, checking each bedroom they came to.
****************
Outside, near Kirkwood Manor...
"Every bride has to have flowers." Little Jane explained.
"That's why I picked these." Young Brandon held up a mixture of wildflowers and flowering weeds, some with the roots dangling.
"It's so pretty!" She clapped her hands together. "Lady Amanda will love it."
"We better hurry before she gets to the church." He told her, taking off at a run. "My mum said that brides always go last."
Jane sprinted after him, ordering him to be careful of the petals.
****************
Amanda checked the time again. "I do wish the carriage was already here." She paced about her quarters.
The door opened and she spun around with a smile. It dimmed to confusion at the two strange men that stood there.
She backed up toward the desk, blindly reaching for her letter opener when they came in and locked the door.
Millie came back into the main room after attending to her needs and froze. "Who--"
"We will have to take her to." One said. "She'll alert the entire town if we don't."
Amanda paled. "Don't hurt her."
Millie narrowed her eyes and jerked on the cord for the servants.
The one with an evil leer slowly shook his head. "You shouldn't have done that my lady." He backed her into the wall and struck her with his fist, knocking Millie out.
Amanda cried out in alarm, she swung around to jerk open a drawer for the letter opener, when a gag was tied over her mouth.
"Please, m'lady." The second man pleaded. "I don't want to hurt you." He gripped her hands and tied them behind her back.
Her eyes sparkled with tears as he tightened her bonds. She looked over her shoulder as Millie was swept over her abductor's shoulder.
"Hurry John." He ordered. "We are running out of time." He left the room.
John turned Amanda back around to face him. His hard expression softened when he looked into her fearful face. "I'll make sure the duke will do right by you."
Her brow furrowed as she tried to speak around her gag.
John threw a black cloak over her head and picked her up over his shoulder. He spoke calmly as she struggled against him.
"M'lady, it is no use. I will only hurt you more by tying your legs together if you don't stop. I don't want to have to do that to you."
She stilled.
"What--Who are--MR. BERGER!" Peggy screamed out when she saw John holding a tied up bundle. "MR. BERGER!"
John knocked Peggy down as he sped down the hall. He ducked out to the servants stairs and nearly jumped down them.
Amanda let out cries of pain each time her ribs hit his shoulder. She tried to brace herself as best she could.
The cloak slipped off of her when they burst outside. She blinked against the bright sunlight and saw two faces looking up at her in shock.
She tried to speak around her gag for them to hide, cursing the fact her hands were tied behind her back.
John didn't see them as he continued to run toward the plain carriage. He could hear the shouts of servants behind him.
"Take her!" He all but tossed Amanda at Charles so he could scramble up and take the reins.
Charles dumped her into the carriage before resuming his seat with John.
With a few flicks of a whip, the carriage lurched forward, dumping Amanda into the floor.
As she struggled to sit up and get her veil out of her face, she heard a laugh that caused a chill to run down her spine.
Hands grasped her arms and set her in the seat. They then brushed her hair out of her eyes and tossed her veil out the window. Amanda looked next to her at a still unconscious Millie, now bound and gagged.
"I am glad you decided to join me, Lady Amanda." Viktor chuckled at his own humor. "I'm sure Lord Hunt will understand within the next hour that I was right. You did decide on marrying a better man."
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racerrita · 5 years ago
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Ooh an infodump with Earl . Gotta love a cursed boy!
Ah yes! Probably one of my faves (but truth be told I love all my Alton OCs equally picking favorites can be almost impossible)
Anyways on with the info dump!
As we all know Earl is a grumpy loner that hides away in the Towers and avoids people as much as he can
He will be polite to park guests he comes across but is a bit more snobby around some of the guardians he’s not fond of.
He would be my most OP character if it were not for negative affects of the curse when he uses his magic. Like stronger than the secret weapons OP.
His curse limits the amount of magic he can use at a time. The more spells he casts and the stronger the spells, will cause the tiny and seemingly harmless branch chained to his leg to root into the ground and slowly grow into a much bigger tree. If he presses further with magic, the branches will eventually wrap around his body, trapping him. Basically he could become one with the tree if he’s not careful, but he’s never pushed it that far.
He is not from this time period he doesn’t know what a cell phone or a “Instantgram” or a “Tweeter” is. He is if anything technophobic, as a magic user.
He seems to get along with fellow grumps Eve and Sven. The trio act as a secondary guardian team, fit to stand in for the main 7 if someone happens to any of them.
He is definitely soft for his dog Henrietta. She brings out a side of him that not many people see, at least right away.
He loves tea and biscuits. Because British.
He actually isn’t fond of rides. He gets incredibly sick on them, even some of the tamer things make him queasy. He’s been pestered into riding some, and has since sworn it off after Eve convinced him to get onto Enterprise. Things didn’t end pretty there.
His magic is actually in a lot of things throughout the park. Protective barriers are everywhere in Alton Towers, that hide secret locations only guardians can access. Unfortunately it doesn’t keep the rain out. Wouldn’t that be nice.
Gatekeeper wanted Earl to be his apprentice but Earl declined the offer as he worked alone. Gatekeeper eventually acquires an apprentice named Stanley (My Stargazing Pods inspired character)
Earl is passionate about history, magic, music, an the arts.
He plays the violin, very well. He can also cast magic spells by playing it.
He also knows piano, and sometimes is caught singing.
He does mellow out over the years, warming up to more people and opening up to others.
He gets sparkly when he uses his magic. People who have ridden Hex will probably understand.
He is very particular in what he wears. He was caught wearing a t shirt once and everyone was in shock. It even had a stain.
He along with his siblings can see ghosts. Not many of the other guardians can, but they can see his dog as she has chosen to be visible to the living.
Despite Hex lore being about being cursed by an old lady, Earl’s curse was brought upon himself. Wanting all powerful magic, (he had powers prior to this, but he wanted to be stronger) he preformed a ritual with the help of his twin siblings. Despite wanting the power to save his dying mother, a noble cause did not prevent the curse placed on him for turning to somewhat dark magic. He had immense power, immortality, vast knowledge and more, but was now cursed alongside his siblings. Despite being able to save his mother, she eventually died of old age, and Earl and his siblings lived long afterwards, watching their family and friends pass on without them. He found as he used his powers he would grow weaker the more the tree grew, stuck spending hours afterwards waiting for it to return to the size of a manageable twig, still annoyingly dragging behind him.
Apparently according to his siblings, his personality was a lot different before the curse. He was a young bright friendly man who had optimism for the future. He was driven to despair when their mother fell ill, and went nearly mad trying to save her. He grew bitter as the curse put upon him restricted his powers and even the benefit of immortality started to fade as he outlived most of the people he knew. He wasn’t receptive to the changes of modern day and simply seems to dislike most people because they are unfamiliar to him.
He does get development as I said though! He warms up to others and even starts using a cellular phone. He has a planned arc where the focus is on his character and him overcoming the curse.
That’s all I have for now! Hope you like reading about what I have for Earl so far~
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contreparry · 6 years ago
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(bitchesofostwick) “Raindrops on eyelashes” for any OC pairing?
Oh boy, I’m going to indulge in an OC pairing, alright! Who wants to meet Henrietta’s parents?! For @dadrunkwriting!
It was raining in Ostwick when Maxwell received a letter from Skyhold.
The letter from the finishing school in Val Royeux came in yesterday. Henrietta had not yet arrived, and while they were more than willing to be flexible it was rather hard to teach a pupil who was not in attendance. Maxwell would normally ignore the passive aggressive snark and return to his work, but considering that Henrietta left Ostwick well over a fortnight ago, he could not ignore this letter. 
He shared the contents of the letter with his wife and tried to think of what they must do next. It had been a hopeless discussion- Henrietta could be anywhere between Ostwick and Orlais. She could be anywhere, and anything could have happened to her. Anything! Maxwell did not sleep. His head was full of nightmarish visions of what might have happened to his daughter, and his heart was full of the fear and anxiety of helplessness.
But now he held a letter, closed in red wax with the seal of the Inquisition, in his hands. And while he had no business with the Inquisition, perhaps, just maybe… Henrietta wrote to her aunt. The Inquisitor. His sister. Perhaps, just maybe, she would know something. It was a small, desperate hope, but it was something. Maxwell clutched the letter in his hand and hurried from his office to find his wife. He had to cross the courtyard to reach her, and the rain soaked through his shirt and clung to his eyelashes as he ran.
Emily was in the music room, plonking away at a harpsichord with a viciousness that made him wince. Her dark red hair was tumbling out of its coiffure, and with every aggressive chord another strand flopped out and rested along her neck.“Emily,” Maxwell said. “We have a letter from the Inquisition.” Emily stopped playing (destroying?) the harpsichord and hurried towards him. Her face was pinched with worry. She looked as exhausted as Maxwell felt. 
“What does it say? Maxwell, is there, did they find Henrietta?” Emily asked.
“I don’t know,” Maxwell admitted. “I thought we should read it together.”
“Here, give it to me,” Emily ordered, and she took the letter he offered. She tore the letter open, breaking the seal, and sat down on the harpsichord bench. Maxwell started to pace as she read. What else was there to do?
“To his esteemed lordship, Lord Maxwell Trevelyan, and to Lady Emily Trevelyan,” Emily read aloud.
“It appears, through a series of mishaps and misadventures that we are still trying to untangle, that your daughter, Lady Henrietta Trevelyan, has managed to find her way to Skyhold. Be assured, she is in perfectly good health, and we have taken it upon ourselves to ensure that she is treated as a diplomat and guest during her time in Skyhold.”
Emily paused and looked up at Maxwell. The relief was clear in her face. The anxiety that had gripped him so tightly since yesterday eased. Henrietta was alive! Alive and safe! Well, reasonably safe. She was in Skyhold, in the middle of a war zone. It wasn’t safe. But it was better than what they had thought. His daughter, their daughter, was safe. She was with her aunt. His sister.
That made Maxwell pause. His sister.
Emily cleared her throat and continued to read.
“We can send her on to Val Royeux with a retinue, or send her back to her home in Ostwick should you prefer. If you would rather make the journey to Skyhold yourself, you will of course be welcomed. Please write back concerning to the arrangements we have made for Lady Henrietta. Your Faithful Servant, Ambassador Josephine Montilyet.” Emily paused.
“There’s a postscript from- from the Inquisitor,” Emily murmured, “Max, I think it best that you come to Skyhold and speak with Henrietta yourself. Please. Evelyn.”
The silence between them sat like a heavy stone. Henrietta was alive! She was well! But now there were decisions to be made, and there was the Inquisitor. Inquisitor Trevelyan. Evelyn. His sister, the bright eyed little girl that he hadn’t seen in nearly twenty years. What was he supposed to say to her? I’m sorry that I never contacted you, that I abandoned you because that was what was expected? What was he supposed to do?
“Well, that settles it,” Emily declared. “We leave tomorrow.”
“So soon?” Maxwell asked.
“Don’t be foolish, Max, you would leave in the next hour if you could manage it,” Emily said crisply. “But as I can get us packed for the journey while you arrange for transport, we’re leaving tomorrow morning with the tide.”
“As if you know anything about tides,” Maxwell said, but all he could feel was relief. Good, steady Emily, who always knew what to say and do at any moment. Thank the Maker she was here. Thank the Maker she was clear-headed enough to push him to action, or else he would simply collapse. He was well near collapsing now.
“We’ve been married for thirteen years, I know a good deal about the ocean now,” Emily retorted, but she smiled and leaned up to kiss his brow. “I’ll start packing. Ferelden’s a good deal colder than Ostwick.” She pressed the letter into his hands and hurried out of the room.
Maxwell held the letter close and read it for himself, but his eyes settled on his sister’s postscript. It settled on the word ‘please.’ It settled on what wasn’t written. Please don’t ignore this, Maxwell. Please don’t ignore your daughter like you’ve ignored me for so many years.
Not this time, he promised himself. He would not bend to expectation and tradition again. This time he would do something. Maxwell stood up.
It was time to find passage to Ferelden.
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alj4890 · 4 years ago
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None But You
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(Thomas Hunt x oc*Amanda) in a regency era romance as requested by @pixieferry​
A/N So sorry this took so long. Migraines and writer’s block are making life so pleasant. We are slowly coming to the end of our series. I have loved how Thomas is in a regency AU. That proud man oozes Mr. Darcy vibes. Let’s see how everyone reacts to the shooting and plans to depart the Rawlings’ residence.
@graceful-popcorn   @krsnlove   @alleksa16   @hopelessromantic1352    @pixieferry   @emceesynonymroll   @buzz-bee-buzz   @hopefulmoonobject    @rainbowsinthestorm   @lxaah11   @my-heart-beats-for-ya @everythingmarvelsherlockspn @friedherringclodthing   @aworldoffandoms   @ab1901   @i-bloody-love-drake-walker  
Masterlist
Summary: Everyone comes to terms with Lord Ryan Summers being shot. Was it an accident? Or, was someone else the intended target? We also begin our journey to Lord Hunt’s home, Kirkwood Manor for the wedding.
Part 12
"Shh." Lady Henrietta Rawlings held her daughter close. "All will be well, darling."
"Oh Mamma." Millie cried. "I cannot lose him. Not after I realized" She trailed off as another sob tore through.
Henrietta smiled softly to herself. It had come as a pleasant surprise to find that her daughter had fallen in love with the one man she and Lord Gabriel Rawlings wished for her.
When Millie burst into tears upon hearing the news that Lord Ryan Summers had been shot, she knew her daughter must truly care for the man. After leaving Lucy in charge of the guests, she took her daughter to her bedroom so that she could cry in privacy.
Her smile dimmed as she remembered that the young marquess might not survive his wound. She couldn't bear the thought of her daughter finding love to only lose it so quickly.
"Stay here." She ordered. "I'll go see what the doctor says."
Millie blew her nose while nodding. "Please find out all you can."
***************
Thomas and Chris decided early on to escape members of the house party. With Amanda in tow, the three claimed one of the empty parlors.
Guests were frantic with gossip and predictions that Lord Summers would die from his injury. Ladies were sniffling in their handkerchiefs, lamenting the loss of a young man of both excellent breeding and fortune. Some of the visiting gentlemen took advantage of the situation to offer comfort to the more desirable matches.
Once Sir Chris shut the door, the three relaxed as best they could under the circumstances.
"How is Lord Ryan?" Amanda asked "Have you heard anything yet?"
"The doctor was able to remove the bullet from his shoulder." Thomas poured a libation for himself and Chris and then a glass of sherry for his lady. "It was a miracle that it missed anything vital."
"That is a blessing." Amanda set her barely touched glass down.
"What I want to know is," Chris bit out, "how the bloody blazes, forgive me, my lady, do a group of seasoned grouse hunters manage to shoot a man?"
Thomas gripped his glass. "Ryan was standing beside me." He took a healthy gulp in the hopes the brandy would burn away the image of his friend bleeding before him. "He then stepped back to ready his rifle."
Amanda covered her mouth. "You would have been shot in the back if he hadn't moved."
He nodded. "Seems odd that after enduring days of tense encounters with the duke that a man next to me is struck down by a stray bullet."
Chis snorted. "Tense barely scratches the surface."
"Has any gentleman stepped forward, claiming they shot Lord Ryan?" Amanda asked, praying it was truly a fluke accident.
"Not that I'm aware of." Thomas quirked an eyebrow in question to Chris.
"I haven't." He answered. "I believe that Lord Gabriel and Michael are going to question everyone."
While Thomas and Chris continued to speculate the shooting incident, Amanda's attention was drawn toward a flurry of activity outside the window.
Carriages were pulling up outside. Some of the houseguests were taking their leave. There were many that hoped to be the first to share the gossip at the many ton events that awaited them in London.
Her eyes darted to the left. Duke Viktor Montmarte stepped forward after giving a farewell to a trio of ladies, tittering at his flirtatious comments.
"I believe we should corner Montmarte's valet." Thomas explained. "I find it strange that he accompanied his grace for the hunt."
Chris softly cursed under his breath. "I didn't notice he was there. What gentleman has a valet that is also well versed in reloading rifles?" He set his glass down in the midst of standing up. "Where is the scoundrel?"
"They've left along with others." Amanda replied. "I do not think we will ever know who truly shot Lord Summers"
***************
"Papa?" Millie whispered outside Ryan's chambers. "Are you certain he is being properly cared for?"
Lord Gabriel's lips trembled with mirth. "Feel free to check on him if you wish. I was planning on sending Sanders in periodically to make certain the marquess is resting comfortably."
"Periodically!" Millie gasped in outrage. "Lord Ryan should have someone at hand until he is strong enough to leave his bed."
Lord Gabriel decided to withhold the information that Lord Ryan had regained consciousness earlier and had no trouble whatsoever with getting up to find a softer shirt to change into.
He had already spoken to Henrietta about letting Millie nurse the gentleman in the hopes the two would finally see that they belonged together.
"My dear," her father said in a condescending tone he knew would spur her on to defying him. "He will be fine on his own for the rest of the evening. We have guests we must entertain and help prepare for their departure on the morrow. You should--"
"Hang the guests!" Millie snapped. "If they are too witless to know how to act when a man lies at death's door, then they deserve no such courtesies!" She opened Ryan's door and slipped inside.
Henrietta popped her head around from around a corner. "You handled that well."
Gabriel chuckled as he walked over to her. "I've learned over the years how to get my ladies to do exactly what I wish."
Hen's eyes narrowed on her husband. "What was that?"
He winked at her as he escaped downstairs. "How else do you think I managed to trick you into bringing up marriage before I did?
"You wretched beast!" Hen screeched.
He laughed as he dashed downstairs.
Her lips eased into a smug smile once he had disappeared. "Foolish man. If he only knew I knew that was his plan all along."
**************
Ryan's eyes flew open when he heard water being poured. He scanned his dim chamber and nearly bolted upright when he saw Millie wetting a rag.
Curious to what she planned to do, he closed his eyes and feigned sleep.
She tiptoed over and gently placed the cool rag on his forehead.
He peeked at her from under his lashes. Her teeth were tugging at her bottom lip as she observed him. There was a crease forming in the middle of her forehead as her eyes narrowed somewhat in thought.
He relaxed when he felt her fingers gently combing through his hair. It was a soothing, almost loving touch that he felt down to his toes.
It took all his willpower to remain still when he heard the click of his door opening again. If anyone were to catch Millie alone in his bedroom, the scandal would rock the entire ton.
Millie's head jerked up at the intrusion. When she saw who it was, she decided to not bother being kind.
"What the devil are you doing here?!"
Victoria paused before shutting the door. "I could ask you the same question."
Ryan flinched from the hiss in the intruder’s tone. Both women noticed the movement and lowered their voices for his sake.
"I am nursing Lord Summers." Millie ground out.
"I believe he would prefer my tender ministrations over yours." Victoria's smile was a touch brittle. "After all, he has made a point to spend more time in my company than anyone else's."
Millie bristled at her not so subtle meaning. "Be that as it may, Lord Ryan is a guest in my home. Therefore his care falls under my responsibility."
Ryan frowned somewhat at that statement. He didn't want her to feel obligated to care for him. He had hoped she was doing so for a deeper, more heartfelt reason. This irritated him even more that he desired such an emotion from the bane of his existence.
"Well, I have a way with men that helps speed their recovery." Victoria countered smugly. "Why don't you go and try to obtain that which you don't have."
The lady made a shooing motion with her hands as she approached the bed.
"And what exactly have I yet to obtain?" Millie's voice had lowered and sounded more sinister than Ryan had ever heard. He cracked open his eyes. Never had he been more grateful to not be the recipient of her temper.
Victoria was oblivious to the effect her provocations had on the young lady.
"Poor little Lady Millicent." She sadly shook her head. "It must be devastating to have your closest friend, who we must admit is not a great beauty, make such an advantageous match in the midst of her first season while you have yet to capture attention from any gentleman within the span of nearly three seasons." Her lips curved into a mocking smile. "Even now the less popular ones are not inclined to give you anything but a cursory glance."
Millie was practically shaking with her anger. "How dare you?!"
Victoria ignored her, moving to fluff Ryan's pillows.
Millie snatched her wrist and roughly pushed her away.
"You wicked little viper." Victoria snapped, wrenching her arm free. "Do you honestly believe he would choose someone like you over someone like me?" She narrowed her eyes on Millie. "You are nothing but an annoyance to him."
Ryan noticed the color drain from Millie's face. Her hesitation touched his heart. In that brief moment, he realized that she believed he wouldn't choose her.
"Millie, are you--," Victoria's laugh echoed in the chamber, "You are! You are in love with Lord Ryan."
The man fully opened his eyes to see how Millie would respond to what had to be a farfetched notion.
Her blush and twisting of the rag in her hands appeared to point toward it being true.
"Oh this is rich." Victoria snorted while laughing again. "You'll never be able to show your face in London again after everyone hears about this." Her malicious smile reappeared. "Not only have you caused a scandal, but you fell in love with a man that barely tolerates his acquaintance with you."
Ryan spoke up when he saw the tears building in Millie's eyes. "Leave my room. Now."
Both ladies jumped and turned to look a him.
Victoria smiled sweetly. "My lord, I've already told her that she is unwanted." She went to pull the covers up over his chest.
Ryan caught her hands. "You are the one that is unwanted, Ms. Fontaine."
She narrowed her eyes. "You must be delirious, sir." She forced another sweet smile. "I'll call for the doctor. A fever might be setting in."
Ryan's polite veneer that he had worn throughout his life was nowhere to be found. Millie watched in a state of disbelief as he set the misguided woman straight.
"Ms. Fontaine, I have unwillingly endured your forced company this entire visit." He began. "If not for my respect of Lady Cora and Lord Michael Rawlings, I would have cut any and every conversation with you." His words were clipped and held an edge sharper than a blade. "My patience has reached its end."
He turned toward Millie. "My dear Lady Millicent, will you please pour me a glass of water?"
She gave a brief nod and hurried to get him what he asked for.
Victoria, upon realizing she was being ignored, decided to leave and spread what gossip she could.
She was in for quite a surprise on learning that Lord and Lady Rawlings had already explained the situation to their remaining guests, making Millie's actions all above board.
"Here." Millie slipped her arm behind Ryan's shoulders.
Instead of admitting he could easily sit up, he decided to play along, struggling with every movement. He weakly grasped her hand that held his cup and took a long, slow sip.
"Thank you." He exaggerated a groan as he sank down against the pillows. "That altercation took a great deal out of me."
Is there anything else I can do for you?" She worried over him.
"What can be done at such a dark moment?" He asked, tinging his voice with sadness. "I have been brought to my lowest." He covered his eyes with his uninjured arm. "How does one go on after this?"
Millie hemmed and gently grasped his hand. "My lord, you will come back from this. I know you have a deep strength that will aid in your recovery."
"My life will never be the same." He said in a gravelly voice. "What will become of me?"
Millie swiped at her stray tears. "Ryan, I--"
"Nothing but a lifetime of pity." He wailed, getting into his role of injured gentleman. "No lady will ever wish to marry me for myself. I will only be desired for my wealth and title."
"That's not true." Millie argued. "You--"
"She won't be able to look at me without seeing a once dashing, handsome man wounded beyond repair." He continued, peeking from under his arm at her.
"Ryan, you're going to be fine." Millie insisted. "You must recover. I need--"
"This is the end of Lord Ryan Summers." He interrupted. "The man you once knew who made ladies' hearts race is no more." He let his arm fall weakly to his side. "I am forever scarred."
Millie narrowed her eyes. "Is that all you care about?"
He turned toward her. "Is what all I care about?"
"Your effect on women." Millie bit out. "One would think a brush with death would cause a man to rethink his life and strive for something more."
"Millie, I-" he began, struggling with his laughter.
"Perhaps Victoria should tend you." Millie stood up and threw the wet rag in his face. "I am not the kind to give you the comfort you so rightly deserve."
"Now Millie," Ryan tossed the rag on the table, "I prefer your tender--" he grunted when she pushed him back down on the bed.
"I cannot believe I worried over you!" She pointed at the bandage at his shoulder. "You're perfectly fine!"
"I was shot in the shoulder." He argued, sitting up once more. "And it hurt like bloody hell removing the bullet."
"Not nearly enough!" She snapped. "You deserve so much more discomfort."
"Millie!" Ryan scrambled off the bed and blocked her exit. "Now Millie, you know you love me."
"I do not!" She screeched. "Whatever," she searched for the appropriate comparison to her previous feelings, "weakness I might have felt, it has thankfully disappeared." She waved her hand. "Kindly move."
"No." He folded his arms, then winced at the pain it caused.
The flash of anger Millie felt disappeared at glimpsing his actual pain. "Oh Ryan." She stepped forward and gently touched his cheek. "You must take it easy."
She slipped her arm around him and guided him back to his bed. She once again fluffed his pillows and covered him up. The entire time, she insisted he allow her to care for him.
Ryan's lips curved at her fussing over him once more. A man, he thought, could get very used to this.
***************
"Did you discover anything?" Amanda asked.
Thomas had pulled her off to an alcove after dinner. He kept her hand in his as they discussed his fruitless search for the shooter.
"Nothing pertinent. The few gentlemen that have remained for another night were all focused on the grouse." He lifted her hand to his lips. "Perhaps it was an accident after all." He grimaced with his next thought. "What if Montmarte's game was simply to cause me doubt and misery? To ruin our time together as a newly engaged couple."
"That is a possibility." She conceded. "Though I believe our original stance to remain guarded around him was wise. He does not strike me as a man that chooses inaction." She smiled softly as he brushed another kiss against her knuckles. "At least he is gone."
Thomas nodded, a hint of a smile forming. "Yes, and we will soon be at Kirkwood Manor." His eyes lifted to hers. "I am anxious to acquaint you with your new home."
"Oh?" Her teasing smile appeared. "Not for the wedding then?"
"That goes without saying." He grumbled. "You are very aware of how much I am looking forward to that."
She laughed, squeezing his hand. "I am looking forward to both."
Thomas hesitated, then leaned closer to whisper. "Even though Montmarte is gone, I would prefer keeping watch over you tonight." Before she could argue, he held up his hand. "I promise to rest during our journey tomorrow."
"Very well." Amanda conceded. "I see that you refuse to be swayed." Her breath hitched when he pressed a lingering kiss to the inside of her wrist. "I will see you later "
Thomas watched her wish her aunt and the Rawlings family goodnight on her way toward the stairs. His lips firmed in a frown as he wondered if they were truly once and for all rid of Viktor Montmarte.
******************
The next morning...
"Are you certain you feel up to leaving this morning?" Millie asked.
Ryan gave his thanks when one of the servants poured him a cup of coffee. "I do." His dimples deepened with his charming smile. "With you caring for me during our journey, I know that I will be fine."
His smile grew at the rosy hue forming on Millie's cheeks.
"Good morning." Amanda greeted when she and Thomas entered the dining room. "Lord Ryan! I am very pleased to see you up and about."
He stood and kissed her hand. "Nothing will stop me from seeing you and Thomas wed." He winked at her. "I have a vested interest in your marriage."
Thomas rolled his eyes. "I believe I was the one to actually court her."
"I'd like to think mine, Lady Millie's, and our closest friends' influence had a hand in nudging you toward the altar.
Chris and Matthew joined them at that moment.
"If I recall correctly," Chris grinned over his shoulder while filling his plate at the sideboard, "Our dear Thomas was very much against the notion of holy matrimony with any lady he came into contact with."
"He even encouraged other men to make a match with a certain lady." Matt added, chuckling at the glare Thomas sent him.
Amanda couldn't help but laugh at their teasing. She reached over and grasped Thomas' hand.
His eyes met hers. Seeing her warm smile, his frown disappeared. He pressed a kiss to her knuckles. Though he wouldn’t admit it, he was grateful they had such interfering friends.
Millie sighed at the tender action, thrilled beyond measure that all was how it should be. Nothing was standing in the way of those she cared for. 
****************
A few hours later, Millie was ready to commit a murder before the wedding. With Ryan injured, she had readily agreed to riding in his carriage with him. Lady Lucinda was riding with Millie’s parents so that Amanda and Thomas could enjoy some alone time in his carriage. All seemed to point toward a pleasant journey for everyone.
Then Sir Chris and Lord Matthew insisted on joining her and Ryan.
It might have been pleasant if not for their teasing and hints that Millie and Ryan felt something deeper than mere friendship. Then again, it most likely would have been a miserable ride. The man she thought herself in love with was irritable with every jostle to his shoulder.
“Perhaps you should have waited a few days before traveling.” Millie suggested.
“I am not about to miss a single moment of my closest friend finally settling down with a young woman I actually approve of.” He snapped.
Millie’s eyes narrowed. “Then perhaps I should have chosen to ride with my parents.”
“Heaven forbid you remain with me and help nurse me back to health.” He grumbled between gritted teeth.
“I can think of a few ways to nurse you.” she mumbled under her breath, imagining shoving a rag in his mouth. “Why don’t you try and rest?”
“Capital idea.” Chris interjected when it appeared that Ryan was about to bite their only feminine company’s head off. “Go to sleep, Summers.”
“You all make it sound simple!” He snapped. “And here I am, thinking that the movement of the coach makes this contraption a torture chamber on wheels.”
“If anyone is tortured it is us that are trapped with you.” Millie countered. She folded her arms and purposely turned so that her back was to him.
“You may leave at any time you wish.” Ryan pointed out. “I was a fool to think having you with me would be a comfort.”
Millie’s gasp of outrage caused the other two men in the carriage to shrink back within their seat. 
“I was more than ready to do all I could to ease your journey.” She hissed. “I had no idea though that not only are you stubborn but you are also prone to whining over every little thing.” She huffed and reached for a book to read. “I did not know I had chosen to travel with a petulant child.”
Ryan opened his mouth to deliver a crushing set down to the woman he thought he was losing his heart to. 
“Here we are, sir!” His coachman called out.
Millie peeped out the window at the inn they were stopping at for the evening. She scrambled down the coach steps when she saw her father helping her mother and Lady Lucy from their carriage.
Her eyes scanned the charm of the small town and she noticed that a number of carriages were stopping at the various inns that lined the main road.
Thomas and Amanda paused on their way inside to check on Ryan.
“I pray it wasn’t too difficult on you.” Amanda said once the gentlemen had made it out.
“I managed.” Ryan quickly assured her. 
Chris choked on his laughter. “He is a man to admire in how he suffers in silence.”
Millie was about to add her own cutting observation when she noticed how pale Ryan was. Sweat was glistening on his upper lip and he winced when he straightened his posture.
She stepped forward and took his uninjured arm. “Come, we should get you settled so that you can rest.”
Her sweet tone caught him by surprise. “Thank you.” He murmured, walking with her into the inn. “I do apologize for my rude behavior.” He grimaced at the pain throbbing in his shoulder. “I should have insisted you ride with your parents.” 
“I should have been more understanding.” She gently squeezed his arm. “I need to work on my patience.”
“And charity.” He added, grinning at her quick temper.
She met his gaze and reluctantly smiled. “That too.”
He leaned down to whisper to her. “Perhaps you shouldn’t work too hard. I will look even more churlish if you become too angelic.”
She laughed out loud, causing his smile to to grow. “Very well. I will only partially work on my lack of patience for your sake.”
****************
“Thomas!” Amanda whispered. “What are you doing?!” She carefully opened the window to her room and stepped back so he could climb in.
“I wanted to check on you.” He replied, looking around her room only lit by a candle. “I have gotten into the habit of being unable to relax at night unless I see for myself that you are safe.”
She walked into his arms to kiss him, snuggling closer when he wrapped his arms around her. “What am I to do with you?”
“Marry me.” He suggested, pressing another kiss to her lips. “Then I can rest easy.”
She shut her window and tugged him over to her bed. “Hopefully you will once we reach Kirkwood.” 
He removed his coat and cravat before settling beside her. “Hopefully.” He reached out to hold her, repositioning her until her head lay on his chest. Thomas closed his eyes as peace seemed to seep into his very bones with the feel of her in his arms. Her hushed whisper of her love for him made him even more grateful that she would soon be his for the rest of his life.
****************
Across the street, a man cloaked in shadows kept his eyes on the window that held the young lady and the man she was engaged to. He remained there, long after the candle was snuffed. Once he believed the man was not going to return to his own room, he left his post and reported all he had witnessed to his employer.
“So he is still keeping his nighttime habits, eh?” The duke chuckled while swirling brandy in his glass. He took a sip before returning his attention to his valet. “We will need to rethink our plans for the viscount and his lady.”
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alj4890 · 5 years ago
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None But You
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(Thomas Hunt x oc*Amanda) in a regency era romance as requested by @pixieferry
A/N So sorry once again. Holidays and multiple bouts of sickness kept me from finishing this chapter. But here we are, the first night of the house party and one where Thomas and Amanda are ready to share their engagement with their nearest and dearest. Everything should go swimmingly. Maybe. We will take up immediately following the end of chapter 8.
@graceful-popcorn​ ​​ @krsnlove​ ​​ @alleksa16​ ​​ @hopelessromantic1352​ ​​  @pixieferry​ ​​ @emceesynonymroll​ ​​ @buzz-bee-buzz​ ​​ @hopefulmoonobject​ ​​ @cora-nova​ ​​ @rainbowsinthestorm​ ​​ @lxaah11​ ​​ @dr-nancy-house​ ​​ @friedherringclodthing​ ​​ @aworldoffandoms​ ​​ @ab1901​ ​​ @i-bloody-love-drake-walker​ ​​
Summary: Lord Hunt asks for permission to marry Lady Amanda. While many are happy for the couple, there are a few that aren't as thrilled with the announcement.
Masterlist
Chapter 9
"I am not allowing that lecher to ruin our announcement." Thomas whispered. He nodded over to Lady Lucy speaking to Lady Henrietta and Lord Gabriel Rawlings. "Let's go speak to your aunt."
Amanda averted her eyes from Duke Vikotr Montmarte. She kept her hand firmly on Thomas's arm and tried to regain that earlier happiness she had when first approaching the house. 
"...Timothy earned a first in--" Gabe paused speaking when the couple approached. "Kirkwood. Lady Amanda. Is something amiss?"
"No sir." Thomas allowed his frown to ease as he gazed down at the lady beside him. "I come to ask Lady Lucinda for her blessing to marry Lady Amanda."
Henrietta and Lucy both gasped in surprise.
Having known the two women for longer than anyone else in the room, Gabe chuckled. "I believe I can discern from that gulp of air that you have received said blessing. Allow me to be the first to congratulate you." He shook Thomas's hand and affectionately kissed Amanda's cheek. "I wish you both all the happiness I have been fortunate to have with my wife."
Henrietta took her husband's handkerchief out of his coat pocket and dabbed her eyes. "Oh Gabe! Why do you persist in saying romantic gibberish when I am around people? You know it turns me into a sentimental ninny!"
He rolled his eyes to Thomas while wrapping his arm around her. "There, there. I will do my utmost to be a dull, unfeeling husband."
"You do and it will be the last thing you ever do!" She bit out before kissing his cheek. "I don't want you to change."
"Then we are of like mind." He whispered. "For I wouldn't have one hair on your head change." He brushed a corkscrew curl behind her ear. "Perhaps that one."
"Oh! You--" she gently smacked his hand. "Congratulations dear ones. With your permission, I would like to announce it before dinner."
"Aunt Lucy?" Amanda reached out and touched her suspiciously silent aunt. "Do you approve?"
Lucy hugged her tight. "Approve?! My darling, I am in alt over this news! I have hoped you two would realize you were right for one another." She reached over and grasped Thomas's hand. "I will be very proud to call you, nephew."
"I will be proud to be referred to as such." Thomas replied, his earlier joy at having secured Amanda's hand started to return with these reactions to his news.
"I should tell Millie before it is announced." Amanda whispered. "I do not wish her to think I have withheld any secrets from her."
Gabe caught his daughter's eye and motioned for her to come over.
"Yes father?" Millie's curiosity had spilled over in her tone while observing all the happy faces.
"Lord Thomas and I are betrothed." Amanda told her in a low voice.
"Oh!" Millie embraced her while reaching for Thomas's hand to squeeze. "I am very happy for you both!" Her big blue eyes grew even larger. "The wedding! We must use this time together to make all the decisions!"
Lucy laughed sweetly. "Hen you have raised a highly intelligent young woman. I am relieved to know that when you and I become senile, our girls can carry on our work."
Henrietta beamed at her daughter. "She is and has always been a treasure. I could not be more proud."
Millie teared up and asked her father for his handkerchief. He sighed in resignation as he handed it over. "I haven't had possession of my own handkerchief for over twenty-five years."
Lucy snorted and nearly choked on her laughter at the identical expressions of irritation on his ladies' faces.
"Don't strangle me yet." He held his hands up in surrender. "I have the honor to announce this couple's news."
________________
Over dinner, the guests continued to congratulate the couple on their engagement. Lady Hen would go on for years saying how it had set a more excited tone for the young people attending. It was clear to all that this was a love match and thus gave many of the unattached ladies hope that the gentlemen would feel inclined to follow in Lord Hunt's footsteps.
There were a small number of guests that were not as enthused with the shared joy. Ms. Fontaine sat with slightly narrowed eyes as her lips firmed in a thin line. Lady Amanda had not only stolen all the attention with this announcement but she had also snagged one of the ton's most nortorious and most sought after bachelors.
Duke Montmarte didn't bother to hide the glare he settled on the two. He was still smarting from Thomas and Matthew's interference the night of the recital. He could not let such an insult go.
Once the ladies left to allow the men their cigars and after dinner libations, Montmarte apporached Thomas. Conversations trailed off around the dining room as many were eager to hear what the duke would say.
"Congratulations Kirkwood." Viktor's lips curved into a mocking smile. "Having known the lady, I can see why you wished to settle the engagement quickly." His smile turned a bit sinister. "Wouldn't want to allow her a chance to meet a more desirable gentleman."
Thomas gripped his glass of port and nodded. "You are correct." His own smile was strained. "I don't believe in taking anything for granted with Lady Amanda."
"It does make one wonder." Montmarte looked around the room, drawing the other men into the conversation. "Why the hurry in proposing? You have been seen pursuing the lady, even when she was ill. I don't recall anyone hindering your courtship." He paused for dramatic effect. "I don't suppose you and she...surely not."
"Watch your tongue, Montmarte." Ryan warned at the badly veiled insult of Amanda and Thomas precipitating their marriage vows.
"I suggest you cease wondering." Thomas continued in a serious tone. "I am the one who sees no reason to wait. I came to the realization that no other woman would do."
"I see." Montmarte leering grin appeared. "Perhaps I should have insisted on spending more time in her company." He chuckled at the anger growing among Thomas and his friends. "You might all be toasting my happiness at having captured the lady."
"Thank heavens Kirkwood had the good sense to not let that occur." Matthew replied with much laughter from those around him. "Think of the unsavory gentlemen Lady Amanda could have encountered."
Montmarte's eyes narrowed at the insult.
Lord Rawlings cleared his throat to break the tension. "Gentlemen I suggest we do not keep the laides waiting any longer."
_________________
"Hmm." Millie sat beside Amanda as they listened to Lucy and Henrietta plan out possible wedding dates. She jumped into the conversation when the matrons paused. "I believe given Lord Hunt's decision to ask Amanda after such a brief courtship, he will most likely appreciate the wedding being as soon as possible."
Lucy nodded slowly. "True." Her gray green eyes rested on her niece. "My dear, do you wish for a long engagement or would you rather marry within the next month or so?"
Amanda's cheeks colored. "If Lord Thomas is of like mind, then I would prefer being married as soon as we can."
Henrietta smiled at her. "I was of the same mindset."
Lucy giggled behind her fan. "If I recall, you even hinted for an elopement to Gretna Green."
"Mamma!" Millie stared at her mother in shock. "Did you really think of running off to Scotland for a rushed ceremony?"
Hen elbowed Lucy for revealing such. "It crossed my mind." She softly groaned at her daughter's eyes lighting up with interest. "I did not wish to wait on the banns being read nor all the fuss my mother was making over the ceremony."
"I believe," Lucy prodded, "that you and Gabe even planned on leaving in the middle of a ball."
"Mamma!" Millie gasped again. "What did Grandmother do when she found out?"
"She didn't find out." Hen muttered. "Your grandfather did."
Millie covered her mouth as her eyes grew wide. "Grandfather discovered the plot? How?"
"He overheard your father speaking to Lord Nicholas about the need for subterfuge." Hen squirmed a bit in her seat as she recalled her father's response. "He decided to wait for us in Gabe's carriage."
Lucy chuckled at the blush staining her friend's cheeks. "Needless to say, the wedding was held six weeks later, as originally planned."
Hen blew out a frustrated breath. "I found out that if I had told Father that I wanted to marry sooner, he would have sent for a special license. Yet since I was willing to do something so scandalous, I was forced to wait the appropriate amount of time."
Millie slumped in the chair she was sitting in. "My own mother, ready to run off with the man she was passionately in love with."
"Yes, well." Henrietta began. "It did not happen and we should focus on Amanda and Kirkwood."
"Maybe they could elope to Gretna Green." Millie teased.
"And deny me a wedding?!" Lucy exclaimed. "As much as I am ready to see the two settled, I would prefer to have some sort of ceremony."
"How about a special license?" Hen teased. "Then you could have a wedding and they could be together that much sooner."
"I'm not opposed to Lord Thomas aquiring one from the archbishop." Lucy replied.
Millie turned her bright eyes toward her friend. "Would you like that?"
Amanda's blush answered it as she struggled with how to say that she would.
They all looked up as the men returned. Thomas scanned the room and smiled softly when he saw Amanda. As he began to approach, Viktor beat him to her.
"Ladies." He bowed before them. "I came to offer the bride to be my personal congratulations." He took Amanda's hand, leering a bit when she tried to remove it. "May you have all the happiness you deserve."
"Thank you, your grace." Amanda responded while attempting not to show her disdain when he kissed her hand.
She looked up when Thomas came around and placed his hands on her shoulders. The gentle squeeze he gave relaxed her as the Duke narrowed his eyes.
"And what date have you settled on?" He asked.
"We have yet to decide." Amanda glanced up at Thomas. "We do have some possibilities in mind, but I should like to hear what Lord Hunt wishes."
"Ah." The Duke cut in Thomas explaining how he would prefer it being as soon as they could. "Best lock her in her room, Lady Bridgerton." His eyes dipped down to Amanda's cleavage. "Wouldn't want the bridegroom to abscond with her to Gretna Green."
Thomas eyed him in silent contemplation. "I don't think my intended should worry about such."
"One never knows what passions may do to the mind." Viktor smirked. "She might even realize after bring in close proximity to a number of gentlemen here that there is another she should run off with."
Amanda gasped in outrage. "I would never!" She dislodged Thomas's hands as she quickly stood up. She completely disregarded the fact that Viktor towered over her. "How dare you insult my faithfulness to Thomas? You clearly have no notion of fidelity when in love."
He slowly smiled at her temper. "Of course. How foolish of me." He bowed his head and walked off.
Thomas gripped Amanda's hand while telling Lucy they were stepping outside.
Once they were in the garden, she jerked her hand from his grasp.
"That--that--" she stuttered as her temper snapped completely. "Despicable monster that dares to call himself a gentleman!"
Thomas folded his arms and watched her without a word as she paced and heaped insults upon Viktor.
"--doesn't deserve the attention of a flea!"
His lips curved as her insults turned toward complimenting him in comparison to the Duke.
"He isn't fit the honor of wiping your boots!" She let out a startled yelp when Thomas pulled her into his embrace.
She automatically slid her arms around his neck, making him smile. His lips brushed hers, pulling her even closer when she kissed him.
After their tender exchange, he continued to keep her in his arms. "We will ignore Montmarte. He only wishes to steal what joy he can from us. With your immediate refusal of his attentions and my apparent dislike of him, he is determined to have some sort of vengeance on us."
"Hateful man." She muttered, resting her cheek on Thomas's chest. "I can't believe his carriage broke down and we are now punished with his repulsive company."
Thomas chuckled softly as he nudged her chin up. He looked down into her eyes as he caressed her cheek. "What date can we marry?"
"That all depends on whether or not we want a special license." Her earlier anger disappeared with the thought of her marriage.
The back of his fingers trailed down her cheek. "I will apply to the archbishop at once if you wish for me to do so."
Her smile slowly appeared. "I would prefer to be married as soon as we can if you wish it also."
His lips landed on hers. "Nothing could make me happier." He whispered.
"Already planning on running off?"
They both turned toward the duke. His cheroot glowed menacingly as he took a long draw. Smoke swirled around him as his dark eyes studied the two. "Careful Kirkwood." His eyes focused on Amanda. "You don't want to scare such an innocent with your passions." He dropped the thin cigar and crushed it under his boot. "She might decide to disappear on you one night."
He left them and returned to the house.
________________
Once Amanda left with Thomas, Millie quickly looked about to make certain Victoria hadn't attatched herself to Ryan, Matthew, or Chris.
"Drat." She mumbled. With a practiced smile, she calmly moved in a determined fashion toward Ryan.
"Oh Lord Summers, you are full of mischief." Victoria teased, lowering her long lashes.
Ryan eyed her skeptically. "Well, it was the only way to beat Winters."
Chris chuckled good naturedly. "I only wish I had thought of it first.
Millie squeezed in between Victoria and Ryan. "Hello." She smiled at the men then glared pointedly at Victoria. "Everyone enjoying themselves?"
"Very much so," Matthew replied.
"What are the plans for this week, m'lady?" Chris asked.
"Oh the usual: A ball, horseback riding, hunting for you gentlemen, games, and of course a picnic or two." Millie responded.
"Well, we certainly won't be bored from lack of activity." Ryan teased.
"I bet you are a marvelous shot, Lord Summers." Victoria cooed.
"He's passable." Millie observed. "Sir Christopher is much more accurate."
Ryan frowned at Millie. "I believe I rate more than merely passable."
She gently patted his chest. "Of course you think that."
His eyes narrowed when he realized she had somehow added insult to injury.
"I for one would love to see you in action." Victoria interrupted their staring at one another. "Perhaps you could teach me how to shoot--"
"You pick up the weapon and aim it at the desired target." Millie rolled her eyes. "Pull the trigger and you are done." She mumbled the rest. "Any normal idiot can shoot."
"But to have such an expert as my teacher." Victoria stepped closer to Ryan, making certain to dig her heel into Millie's skirt, ripping it.
"Oh no!" Victoria raised her hands to her cheeks. "How terribly clumsy of me!"
Millie opened her mouth to tell Victoria to go directly to blazes. Ryan cleared his throat and slowly shook his head.
"It is no matter." Millie bit out. "If you all will excuse me, I am going to retire for the night."
Goodnights were spoken by the gentlemen while Victoria smirked in triumphant. She slipped her hand in the bend of Ryan's arm and looked up at him with adoration.
Millie grumbled as she departed the drawing room. "Blasted, horrible wench."
________________
Thomas paced in his bedroom, pausing every few minutes when he heard a noise in the hallway. His mind replayed over and over all the remarks Montmarte had made.
He didn't know if it was intuition or simple fear, but he knew he had to somehow get into Amanda's bedroom. He suspected that the Duke intended to take her away.
As the clock struck midnight, he sneaked out and quietly crept toward the wing where she slept. He knew if discovered, there would be a scandal, perhaps not as serious as one would think. After all, he had made his intentions known to everyone. Still, he didn't want any unwarranted blemish associated with Amanda.
He gently knocked on her door before trying the handle. His frown formed when it opened. She should have bolted the door, he thought while stepping in. He turned and locked himself in before checking on her
He saw a shadow move out of the corner of his eye as he approached the bed. He just managed to catch Amanda's wrist before she bludgeoned him with a candlestick. He yanked her to him while holding her wrist high.
"It's me!" He hissed.
The wild look of fear in her eyes faded. "What are you doing sneaking into my room?"
His arms dropped as she moved to light a candle. "I wanted to make certain you were...well."
She folded her arms and lifted an eyebrow. "And?"
"And, I believe Montmarte might attempt to steal you away and possibly force your hand in marriage."
Her stance eased. "Oh." She walked over to the fireplace and curled up in one of the chairs. "Do sit down."
He sat across from her. His dark eyes narrowed in thought. "You suspected it too."
"I did. That's why I had the bed pillows lumped under the covers and waited in the shadows." Her chin lifted in defiance. "He was not going to be allowed a moment to touch me."
Thomas ran his hands over his face. "You shouldn't have to worry over such." He stood up and removed his jacket and cravat.
Her eyes widened. "What are you doing?"
"I'm staying here." He replied.
"Have you taken leave of your senses? You can't stay in my room all night!"
"I can and will." He stated in a firm tone. "I will make certain to leave before the servants wake." He stepped over to her and pulled her out of her chair. "I'm not leaving you unprotected."
"I have my candlestick." She mumbled as his lips sought hers.
His hands tangled in her long hair as he kissed her. Her arms wrapped around his waist, hugging him close. He lifted his head and urged her to go to sleep before temptation took over his gallantry.
She smiled softly and kissed him once more.
Thomas broke away and nudged her toward her bed. "A man can only take so much." He warned.
"Where do you intend to sleep?" She asked, once in bed.
"In the chair." He stated while forcing himself not to stare at the empty space beside her.
She pulled her knees up and rested her chin on them while studying his expression. "Thomas, you've seen me in bed before. Why are you--"
"You were gravely ill then, thus keeping my mind occupied." He interrupted. "I ask that you please rest." He sat down in a chair that at first he thought was comfortable. Now it felt like it was constructed with rocks.
Amanda watched him as he readjusted multiple times.
"Wouldn't it be easier to keep me from harm if you were directly between the duke and me?" She scooted over and patted the spot next to her that was near the door.
Thomas softly groaned. "Amanda, it will be a large enough scandal if I'm caught in here. If I am found in your bed--"
"You'll be forced to marry me." She finished with a smile.
He knew she wouldn't sleep until he gave in. Taking a deep breath and reminding himself that he was a gentleman, he gave in and took his boots off. Thomas climbed into bed while trying not to think of the one he would be sleeping next to. He snuffed the candle and then made certain to stay on top of the covers.
Amanda laid on her side facing him. "Thank you for coming to protect me."
He turned his head to look at her. "No need to thank me. I will always do what I can to keep you from harm."
She gently cupped his cheek. He closed his eyes at her touch.
Thomas pressed a lingering kiss to her palm.
"I love you, Thomas." She whispered.
"I love you." He said. "More than you could possibly imagine."
Her smile was tender as she wished him a goodnight. She turned over on her other side and closed her eyes, soon falling into a peaceful slumber.
Thomas closed his eyes and tried unsuccessfully to will himself to sleep. He knew it was going to be a miserable night being beside the one he both wanted to protect and desired.
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