#mha bridgerton au

[lou-struck]

Series Masterlist

Here is the Table of Contents for my ongoing Bridgerton Au featuring BNHA's Tamaki Amajiki!

Chapter One:

~The Spring season of the Ton is the busiest, most gossip-filled event of the year. All eyes are turned to securing the attention of a recently returned Earl who poses quite a challenge for the vicious mamas who want to sink their teeth into him. All the while, you hope to make it through the season in one peace. But when you see someone backed into a corner you can't help but intervene.

Chapter Two:

~You and Lord Amajiki have struck a deal to occupy each other's time for the remainder of the season.

Chapter Three:

~The Ton seems to be falling for your little ruse, but are they the only ones falling?

Chapter 4:

~Coming Soon!

*Let me know If you wish to be added to the Taglist for this series!

[todofics]

Off The Market | 1/6 | Todoroki Shoto x Reader

♡ Summary: The Todoroki name had always borne a heavyweight amongst even society’s finest. When the family’s youngest son, and heir to the title, is forced into the marriage market, it’s no surprise that he quickly becomes the season’s most eligible bachelor—hoping to avoid marriage for at least one more season, who better than to circumvent the ton other than his long-time friend, you? 

♡ Content: regency au, fake-dating trope, aged-up characters, age gap (4 years), mutual pining, fem reader, fem pronouns, mature content in future chapters

♡  Author notes: I recently watched Bridgerton and fell in LOVE with it. Who can blame me though? Nicola Coughlan, you have my heart. Anyway, this is my little love letter to that obsession! 

♡ 1.6k words/est. 15k words (chapter ⅙)ˋ°•*⁀➷ Main Masterlist ♡  MHA Masterlist ♡ Story Masterlist ♡ Next

Crystal chandeliers hung like constellations in the night sky, their scattering prisms causing the ballroom to glitter softly in its wake. As the rhythmic thuds of dance and orchestra filled the air, chatter flitted in the background. 

“Did you hear?” the Viscountess Ashido asked in a hushed tone, cheeks flushed a brilliant pink as she swirled her glass of wine. Despite it only being the first ball of the season, gossip spread like wildfire. The attention of the small group turned towards her as she continued to speak, “I hear Lord Todoroki is finally seeking to make a match.”

As you sipped on your lemonade, your ears perked at the sound of your best friend’s name. Shoto? Married? The thought made you snort internally. He never mentioned the prospect of marriage in their years of friendship - let alone in the last few months. If they truly knew the man, they’d understand that Shoto had always disdained society and its many traditions - offering himself out on the marriage market was simply… out of character. Then again, these rumors had been circulating every season since the man turned 22 (the year of your debut). It was a piece of gossip that was always best to ignore lest the man announce it himself. 

Still, even though most knew that rumors spread amongst the ton were often baseless (especially at an event this early into the season), those words always held particular weight. Even at a young age, Lord Todoroki always possessed an alluring sort of charm. From his dual-toned hair to his mysterious demeanor, Shoto’s presence commanded attention far before he stepped into society. Now, at 26, he had long lost all of his boyish features, his physique sharp and gaze undeniably melting. Somehow, with time, the already attractive boy only grew impossibly more magnetic. This, paired with his future inheritance of the Duke title, seemed to establish Shoto as the most eligible bachelor of each season - even if he was never officially on the market. 

“The Lord’s been ‘searching’ for a wife for four seasons now,” Lady Uraraka mentioned, not so swayed by the conversation. Her intentions had already long been set on the green-haired baron anyway. 

“I’ve heard nothing on the matter either,” you added, causing a few of your fellow debutantes to groan. If anyone were to know if Shoto was searching for a wife, surely it’d be you. 

The two of you had always been a rather interesting pair in the tons’ eyes. Having been friends since your younger years, they had assumed the year of your debut would lead to a proper courting from the male. However, each passing season made it evident that such a thing was far from reality. You and Shoto simply possessed a strong bond of friendship - something that both confused and delighted the debutantes as you settled on the outskirts of their group.

“No! This time, I hear it from the Duchess herself. The Duke intends to make arrangements unless Lord Todoroki makes his match this season,” Mina defended, adding more fuel to the fire. Duchess Todoroki herself had been speaking about it? 

After many social seasons spent in the countryside due to a proclaimed illness, the Duchess had only recently reappeared in court last year. This, of course, reignited old gossip surrounding her disappearance. After all, her first year gone coincided with the mysterious appearance of Lord Shoto’s now-defining mark. Thus, it was well-known by now that the Duchess kept to herself, her demeanor proving itself too delicate to get involved in spreading falsehoods. 

A frown etched across your face as you listened to the cheery pink-skinned debutante. Duchess Todoroki would never speak about such a thing unless it were true. While you knew Shoto was probably against the idea himself, a feeling of hurt still sank in your stomach as you wondered why the boy hadn’t told you. You considered him your best friend - and honestly, you thought he considered you his. Secrets like this ought to be shared.

Like wolves smelling fresh meat, mothers encouraged their daughters to accentuate their best features, readjusting their clothes and hair to make a good impression. Some of the more eager debutantes forewent this step, keen to catch the eye of the young Lord. They would stop at nothing to gain the upper hand, longing to become the center of his prospects. 

Suddenly, the room felt much too small, the heat sweltering as you excused yourself from the desperate group. You’d speak to Shoto later about his soon-to-be marriage.  Gliding across the room briskly, you quickly found the balcony door, stepping out and admiring the fleeting beauty of the garden below. The fresh air felt nice against your skin, the cooling sensation calming down the warmth in your cheeks. For now, all you needed to do was gather your senses - relax. Fanning yourself with fervor, your thoughts settled under the pale gleam of moonlight; eyes glazed over with careful consideration.

The sentiments that swirled within you made for great confusion. Irritation and… envy? Sure, the feelings of irritation were a given, but not once had you ever felt actual jealousy towards the man. Although you had always known Shoto to be an attractive man who would eventually marry, the thought of that happening so soon bothered you. You had grown used to the man’s constant presence in your life for years. With marriage on the horizon, that familiarity would simply have to die off - no bride-to-be would allow the future Duke to have such a close friendship with another woman.

Honestly, the situation was quite unfair. At your debut, speculations surrounding your relationship with the man had just about killed off any potential interest. Now, four seasons into your venture into the marriage market, your prospects had only grown slimmer. It rattled you that Shoto was seemingly leaving you behind. You clicked your tongue, attempting to snap out of the annoyed daze you were in. Unfortunately, this was just the reality of society. You’d simply have to succumb to your fate of loneliness. Maybe being a spinster won’t be so bad. 

Your thoughts were soon interrupted as the balcony door swung open, your gaze shooting back to see who it could be. “Found you,” Shoto flashed you a soft smile, his posture slightly hunched as he approached. It was clear that the advances of the debutantes had worn him out. He let the door shut behind him, opting to stand directly next to you despite the plethora of room the spacious balcony offered. 

“Lord Todoroki,” you replied, turning your attention to the glittering night sky. It was strange - that name felt so foreign coming from your lips. 

He frowned, “you know better than to call me that.” Shoto had always insisted on you calling him by his first name, and for the last few years,  you had relented (something you regretted now as his expression conveyed one of hurt). Still, you powered on, steeling your resolve. It would be best to distance yourself from the man now. 

With a soft laugh, you tucked a loose strand of hair behind your ear. “I should get used to it - your future bride might not take so kindly to another woman calling your name.” His eyes widened briefly, hands clenched as he cleared his throat. Despite being outside, the air grew stiff, the tension so palpable you could cut it with a knife. 

 “That,” he paused, attempting to gather his thoughts, “is what I came out here to discuss.” Shoto’s social skills were mediocre at best, his awkward demeanor shining through the seriousness of his tone. You raised a brow, curious of what the man could possibly say.

“To discuss? You came out here to discuss your marriage prospects?” you asked with an incredulous tone, waiting for the man to get straight to the point. He shifted awkwardly, not used to receiving any sentiments of bitterness from your end. “You should have warned me.” 

Shoto shot you an apologetic look, “I… I was not aware myself until a fortnight ago,” he murmured. The situation pained him as well - despite his rapid approach to the average age of marriage, he still didn’t feel quite ready. “A fortnight? You should have written. That isn’t information you keep from your friends.” 

“I know,” Shoto acknowledged, taking a deep breath as he prepared himself for the spades of anger you were sure to cast. Instead, however, you surprised him. He should’ve known by now that he could never predict your actions.

“It’s fine.”

You had always been quite the firecracker -  your passion and zeal for life unmistakable. It was something Shoto had always admired about you; your enthusiasm balanced out his serious demeanor, allowing for a sort of yin-and-yang relationship. This relaxed response was unlike the you he had grown to know. 

“I am sorry,” Shoto said, mustering up every ounce of sincerity in his body. You sighed, unable to stay mad at the man for long, the years of friendship preparing you for his aloofness regarding social situations. “Really, I promise you it’s fine, let us move on from this topic,” you reassured. The thought of Shoto’s marriage prospects made you uncomfortable enough - it wasn’t something you particularly cared to converse about. 

Before he could let the topic change, Shoto turned to face you, his hands gently grasping your smaller ones as your jaw dropped in surprise. “Just… one more thing,” he started, voice wavering with nerves. 

“Allow me to court you.”

[lady-ashfade]

★~*･ﾟFade’s Collab Event

Hello everyone. I have been invited to do a collab by @queenpiranhadon and I thought I would make my own- it just seems so fun.

A x reader event

I have a few tropes to choose from, and message me if you want to join. Only one trope is used, so if it is taken I hope you can find another to fit. A new fic to post, and only one chapter. Any fandom characters are welcome. Comment below or message me to get everything sorted.

The rules are just write about the trope!! You get to control everything else

*if it is crossed out and has a blog by the side of it, that means it is take *

Collab Event Masterlist Here.

Fantasy

Royalty Au by @breakdawn-avenue with shoto/ mha

Fantasy Bounty hunter au

Space Bounty hunter au

Pirate Au

Masquerade @hopelesswritergall with Aemond Targaryen

Romantic

Enemies to lovers

Fake dating @targaryenluvs with Clark Kent

One Bed @aphroditelovesu with Benedict Bridgerton

Vacation Confession

Random

Murder mystery

Found family @olympus-library with rhaenrya targaryen

Alien crashes into background

Friday the 13th @gulnarsultan with Jasson voorhees

Hybrid/Creatures 

Adopted Hybrid

Found hybrids

Mermaids @serxinns with yandere class 1A

Werewolfs

Going to take a few writers I love- don’t feel pressured just getting the word out. Anyone can join.@aphroditelovesu @madame-fear

[ophstars]

☆ DR LIST

(yes I'm finally making a comprehensive list of all the drs I plan/want to shift to months after the poll)

• idealised OR / main DR

• TLOU - includes a canon divergent au where I'm part infected, and Joel doesn't die. + a bunch of other drs based off fics I've read and ideas I've had for the game.

• EAH - my friend @blast-offbluetanica has this great idea to make a dr where we're daughters of maleficent, part of the rebel cause and besties with raven. I'm still yet to find what exactly I want to do/be in my solo eah dr, but once I do, I'll def make a post about it.

• MHA - CANT WAIT TO GROUP SHIFT THERE WITH BESTIE @blast-offbluetanica

• adventure time / fionna and cake

• DC : young justice

• spiderverse (miles triology)

• the umbrella academy - best believe I'm rewriting the plot of S4. Like wtf was that 🤦🏾‍♀️.

• the disastrous life of saiki k.

• the legend of zelda : breathe of the wild & tears of the kingdom

• trollhunters

• gravity falls

• the hollow

• what we do in the shadows

• interview with the vampire

• bridgerton (prolly shifting there with @blast-offbluetanica)

• brooklyn 99

• miraculous ladybug : tales of ladybug and cat noir (a well written version)

• youtube / content creator

• ATLA / TLOK

• winx club

• lolirock

• minecraft story mode

@itsangelicasworld @sillyshifterbean and literally everyone else I have drs in common with

[i-the-fluffo]

Bridgerton au mha writing time? NO I CANNOT. I ALRRADY WANT TO WRITE SO MUCH

[liliesoftherain]

Alstroemeria

Pairing: Bakugou Katsuki x Reader; Midiroiya Izuku x Reader -- one sided bakugou x reader(or is it???????)

Genre: Fluff, Slight Angst? Mentions of unrequited love so 

Summary: Alstroemeria: This flower has an array of meanings...but the beautiful blooms always connect to a similar meaning of friendship, love, strength, and devotion. Someone should have mentioned that it doesn’t have to mean all of the above.

A/N: Hi y’all, enjoy this quick one-shot as I finish my next chapter. This is loosely based on the Bridgerton series? Mainly just a Victorian ball au? I just want to imagine Bakugou in a cute waistcoat I’m sorry. Izuku i an Earl and holds title cause his dad is gone. Katsuki is a Marquess cause he’s the son of a duke, as he should.

Part 2--Bakugou’s POV

----------

You’ve had time to get used to the ache of heartbreak.

Skillfully hiding the pain you feel behind a taut smile, you turn away from where he was dancing and sweep your eyes along the extravagant ballroom before you. It really is a wonderous sight; the crystal chandeliers are polished and sparkling, the lavish satin drapes are pulled back by golden ropes and allow the guests to watch the dancefloor without interference, and the professional musicians upon the raised lift play beautifully to set a magical mood. 

You’re no stranger to these elaborate formalities, yet this is the first season you were truly allowed to partake in the events. The fourth ball of the season is just as important as the first, allowing the suitors to try and claim the affections of their wanted--more like, just claim stake in any favorable lady they could. 

However, you have been groomed your entire life for an event such as this, and you were hardly in any position to complain. Yet, that doesn’t mean you were completely uncaring to the idea of being arranged into a loveless marriage. You so painfully wanted your husband to be someone you felt something for--you wanted your love-match. Alas, you weren’t in the position to gain anything of the sort, were you? Not while his attention was on her. 

“These are such a bore, are they not?”

You are shaken from your thoughts, locking on emerald eyes that brimmed with amusement, and you can’t help but grin at the sight. 

“Why, My Lord, dare say are you not entertained by all the ribbons and ascots?”

“I would say not--I prefer a plethora of feathers and exuberant ruffled fronts. Much more fashionable items.”

You share a laugh, the tension melting away the longer you were in the presence of your childhood friend: Izuku Midoriya. The Earl is and has always been a very kind soul, one who you would once spend countless hours with playing in the gardens, and even more so hosting tea and forcing him to attend. As a child, he was always rather timid and shy, easy to persuade into just about anything. Perhaps that is why you and Katsuki always got away with your harmless teasing--well, some teasing more harmless than not. 

He was always nearby, conceding you to put him through the girliest of activities, and yet he never complained. He often returned the favor by forcing you to study, presenting you with books on subjects you couldn’t even begin to understand, and allowed him to rant on about every and anything he found of interest. He was often your escort to most events--with the proper chaperone, of course--and force you to listen off as he rattled endlessly over different theories he came up with from his travels abroad. 

Katsuki wasn’t as fond of listening to his rambles as you were, and often would shut him up with a fencing match or something similar--anything that could have Katsuki physically overpower him to get him to, ‘stop talking for more than two bloody minutes.’ 

Yes, you three were once as thick as thieves--however now...

Your attention flickered back over to the Marquess; his blond locks wild and untamed, even though he was at such a prestigious event, and the endearing sight squeezed your heart as it was so him. He now stood off to the side, chatting away with the miss that has held his attention all night. She was rather beautiful, with long juniper locks and stunning sage eyes; it is no wonder Katsuki would be so bewitched. 

“May I?”

You glance down, seeing Izuku’s expectant hand, and grant him the remainder of your dances on your card. You try to smile, but it falters at his knowing look as his attention goes between you and his other friend. 

He leads you to the dancefloor, holding you tight as you both being to waltz a varsouvienne. You allow the music and his soft gaze to consume you, laughing and jesting as the night went on. Katsuki ends up in the furthest parts of your mind, almost forgotten.

“Pardon--”

Almost.

“Miss (l/n), a dance?” Katsuki stands before you, a friendly sneer on his face as he stares at your dance partner. “A real dance, anyways. Seeing as the ever graceful Izuku may as well have two left feet.”

“Oh, most amusing, Katsuki.” Izuku rolls his eyes, yet stays holding onto you.

You miss the quick glance of Katsuki’s eyes as they sweep over Izuku’s grip on your waist--instead, you offer a silent thanks for his comfort before giving a polite bow of your head. 

“Of course, Lord Bakugou.”

You take his outstretched hand and allow him to guide you away; he spins you once, then brings you back into his embrace. 

“How are you this evening, (y/n)?”

“Very well, My Lord.”

“Now why are you acting with such formalities? Have I not won over your friendship after all these years?” His brow furrows as you turn your head downward. “Tell me, what is it that troubles you?”

“It is nothing, Katsuki.” the upturn of your lips does little to put him at ease, “I am merely feeling the effects of dancing--that is all.”

“Why? Izuku and you had only danced a measly three times--and you know you have to dance with me.”

You let out a snort of amusement, remembering the promise you made to both men before the season first started of saving them at least one dance.

“Yes, of course, I always make sure to save one for you, do I not?” 

“You do.” He chuckles, before smiling at your head. “May I say, your hair looks lovely tonight--alstroemerias again? It suits you.”

He spins you around once more, slower than the first, and you spot Miss Setsuna from across the way. Her frown is prominent as she watches the waltz continue, and in some twisted way, you feel triumphant; you know she’s after his status, and his good looks didn’t hurt either. That’s what every woman was chasing, after all. That’s what you were supposed to be chasing--but that’s not what you want. 

You’ve been in love with Katsuki since you were both children. You loved the little boy who would take you on adventures throughout the grounds behind your estates. You loved the kid who used to pick you alstroemerias for your tea-parties--it is now why they adorn your gardens and your wardrobe. You loved the young man who would--begrudgingly--let you practice various dances on him until you got it just right. You loved the teen who would bring you various trinkets from his studies and travels, just because. You loved the man who never failed to make you feel worthy and respected in the highest regard of the meaning. 

You loved all of him. 

“Yes--they are my favorite flower, after all.”

The dance ends, and you both dip low in respect, and for a fleeting moment, you expect him to stay.

But that hope shatters the second he loses focus on you and gives it to her. You muster the strength to look away. 

“Thank you for the dance, My Lord. I hope you enjoy the rest of your night.” 

Without waiting on a response, you turn and swiftly make your leave. All you want to do is find your mother and go home, your heart unable to deal with any more pain. On your hasty exit, you end up crashing into someone.

“I, I am sorry,” you gasp, hoping that they said nothing in return so you could continue and get some fresh air.

Why was it so suffocating in here?

“(y/n)? Are you alright?”

Izuku places a firm grip upon your arms, holding you steady as your chest begins to rise and fall in quick breathes. He takes your form in worriedly and quickly moves to escort you to the balcony, where there is no crowd and fresh air. 

Leaning against the railing, you focus on the lush gardens below--on anything to get your mind of Katsuki. Yet it all is in vain, as the pin in your hair comes loose, and an alstroemeria falls right onto the back of your hand. 

Your bottom lip grows unsteady the longer you watch the flower, and you have to blink back the moisture that has begun to collect on your bottom lashes. You don’t understand why it all hurt so much--you’ve known from the start that receiving his affections was slim to none, yet you still held onto the dim idea that he could also return affections. 

You had been watering this seed--this notion--every day, and it only grew stronger and stronger; its stem growing as if it were a vine, seizing every part of your being until you were helpless to the damage it had caused. You are tired--your body, your heart, it all hurts and you want to give up, but you keep pushing for this flower to bloom because something good has to come of all of this hurt, right?

And something does, but what you thought was a beautiful flower of love, strength, and devotion, he only saw one of strength in friendship. 

He may not realize, but it’s killing you that you two are seeing two different sides of the same coin; the opposite sides of the looking glass, unable to get to the other, only able to present a false front instead of the entire truth of feelings as a whole. 

You don’t even realize the tears have started to fall from your face until you notice you were no longer staring down to the darkness below, and had begun to soak the coat of your companion. You pull away, just enough to look into his eyes, and you see the concern and care he holds for you. Leaning back into his embrace, you don’t give yourself another moment to think how scandalous it must look to be held so fondly by a man you weren’t wed to--you need this hug more than anything right now, and that’s enough reason for the both of you. 

Izuku mumbles soothing words of endearment, stroking your clothed back softly--and while you can’t feel his bare skin against yours, you still shiver at the touch. He’s warm, comforting, and you find yourself calming down in his hold. You pull back, creating enough distance to be acceptable, and grant him a watery smile. 

He stares back kindly, a gaze of adoration, as he pulls another of your beloved alstroemeria from the clip behind your ear. 

“What are you--”

Izuku sets it on the balcony ledge, then unclips the flower from his breast pocket, delicately placing it in the same spot.

“A primrose--I think it suits you quite well.” 

You bring a hand up, briefly brushing over the soft petals before searching his expression for an answer. His smile only grows fonder, and he takes your hand away from the primrose and raises it to his mouth for a tender kiss on your hand. 

“Izuku…”

“If the Lady is willing to accept, may I be so bold as to call upon her tomorrow?”

One hand starts to fiddle with the fabric against your waist, suddenly feeling rather nervous as he continues to hold you other as he awaits your response. Your tongue darts out to lick your suddenly dry lips, a bashful smile forming right after.

“Of course, My Lord.”

“Fantastic,” he whispers, letting your hand fall back to your side as he stares with disbelief at your agreeance--you laugh at his wide-eyed look, “Then let me escort you inside, I do not wish to keep you any longer than you would like.”

You consent, taking his arm as he walks you back into the ballroom. For the first time that night--for the first time ever in fact--your mind is far from the Marquess, and you’re not concerned about it. 

So much so, you don’t notice the distraught-looking man leaving the balcony right before you both, nor the falling alstroemeria right after.

-----

Primrose: These flowers are seen as representations of young love and of feeling as though you can’t live without your lover. 

“...is the most overlooked flower when it comes to romantic flowers...”

[hopeheartfilia]

sometimes you want a shindeku fake dating regency romance au and sometimes you dont get what you want

[taureandiaries]

— welcome,

— she/her | 23 | black | taurus | infj | law student

— hey!! my name is issy and welcome to my writing diary/journal where I would share updates on my fics, my writing journey along with my other favourite interests.

— BYF: I will be liking/writing nsfw so this account is 🔞!! also absolutely no form of hate will be tolerated

— you can also find me on the following platforms: twitter + AO3

───────────────────────────────

ABOUT ME

— bibliophile ⇒ fav genres: literary fiction | romance | fantasy | historical fiction | mystery/thriller

— addicted to tv shows and movies

— marvel and dc fan

— music lover ⇒ fav genres: r&b | afrobeats | pop | hip-hop/rap | alternative | jazz

───────────────────────────────

INTERESTS ♡

— fandoms: snk | jjk | castlevania | naruto | atla | mha | bsd demon slayer | fruits basket | vnc

— books: tsc | pjo/hoo | legendborn | the blood trials | soc | thg | tbosas

— tv: yellowjackets | succession | got | hod | maws | cruel summer | s19 | bridgerton | bojack horseman | the boys | severance | gen v

───────────────────────────────

MAIN SHIPS ♡

— shingeki no kyojin: eremika | aruani | jeanpiku | falbi | yumihisu | eruri | mobuhan

— jujutsu kaisen: gojohime | sugushoko | yutamaki | fushikugi

— naruto: sasusaku | shikatema | naruhina | saiino | borusara | kawasumi

— atla: kataang | sukka | maiko | tyzula

— sonic: sonamy | taismo | knuxouge | shadikal | silvaze | sallicole | whispangle

— boku no hero: izuocha | kamijirou | todomomo | kirimina

— pjo/hoo: percabeth | solangelo | caleo | frazel | jasper

───────────────────────────────

MASTERLIST ♡

shingeki no kyojin:

— between the lines ⇒ ongoing [mature]: eremika modern au: a journalist is taken with interviewing an elusive celebrity and finds more than what she expected

— undelivered ⇒ completed [teens and up]: eremika canon-verse: eren tries to write mikasa a letter during his time in marley

— beautiful monster ⇒ completed [teens and up]: aruani canon-verse: armin's feelings for Annie during the female titan reveal

— welcome home ⇒ completed [general]: eremika week 2022: eren and mikasa welcome a new person home

— picnic dates and revelations ⇒ completed [teens and up]: eremika modern au: eren and mikasa go on a secret picnic date

sonic the hedgehog:

— start of something new ⇒ completed [general]: whispangle canon-divergence fic: whisper has a recognition of feelings after the metal virus

───────────────────────────────

WIPS ♡

shingeki no kyojin:

— kickin' my way to your heart -> rating: mature -> eremika modern au: football player Eren Jaeger meets and falls for his new physiotherapist, Mikasa Ackerman, who just happens to be his coach's little sister

— the motion on romance -> rating: teen/mature ->falbi highschool au: two academic rivals stuck as co-captains of the debate team as they realise there is more to them than meets the eye ⇒ academic rivals to lovers

— your melody and my harmony -> rating: mature/explicit → yumihisu musician au -> famous pop star Krista Lenz has her world changed where she meets grunge artist Ymir

— love arrives → rating: mature → eremika small town au → a runaway bride moves to the small town where her cousin lives and rediscovers herself, along with feelings

jujutsu kaisen:

— moments with you -> rating: explicit -> sugushoko modern au: two ex-best friends and lovers reunite at their best friends wedding, and deal with the feelings that they've buried over the years

— I didn't mean to fall in love -> rating: explicit -> gojohime modern au: a teacher falls in love with one of her students' dad -> based off Snoh Aalgera's I Didn't Mean to Fall in Love

naruto:

— war of the hearts -> sasusaku prohibition au -> rating: mature -> based off Chloe Gong's These Violent Delights

avatar the last airbender:

— when love blossoms -> rating: teens and up -> kataang modern au → the story of two best friends going through the stages of falling in love

— to be something or or nothing to you → rating: mature → tyzula modern au: it's her best friend's wedding day, she's supposed to be happy, isn't she? (based off Laufey's Promise)

[lou-struck]

Among The Violets: Part 3

Tamaki Amajiki x F Reader

Bridgerton! AU part 3

Warnings: The Patriarchy, corsets, talk of undergarments, large age gaps (mentioned), Physical abuse, mentions of Domestic abuse, forced marriages, manipulative bitches, Alcohol consumption, insecurity.Fake Dating AU!

~The Ton seems to be falling for your little ruse, but are they the only ones falling?

Word Count: 3.7k

My Dear Reader, 

One of the most overlooked positions in high society is that of the chaperone. 

A lady may be the embodiment of grace, beauty, and elegance, but without a respectable chaperone to lead the way, they could very well find themselves among the ranks of the spinsters.

When it comes to chaperones, Miss y/n has quite the advantage. The lively young Lord Togata easily could’ve been the man of the season, but he has chosen to help his fair cousin make quite the match of her own with his childhood friend.

The quiet Lord Amajiki accompanied the Lady at yesterday's picnic by the lake. While it is unclear what it is they discussed so secretly amongst eachother, but witnesses saw the Earl crack the most dashing of smiles in her presence. Before using his own tunic to shield his Lady once the sun was eaten away by the most untimely of storms.

Are there to be wedding bells in the future?

Always Yours

~ Lady Whistledown

Your place this morning's society paper on the side table with an almost giddy smile. Your little performance with the Earl is going over quite well. The Ton is starting to believe that the two of you are truly enamored with each other.

Your lips turn upwards into a smug smile. It’s almost as if you and the Earl are doing too good of a job. “Wedding Bells” you repeat, glancing down at the last line.

Just a month ago, the mention of any sort of nuptials would have had you rushing to the privy to empty the contents of your stomach.

“What does Whistledown have to say this morning?” Mirio chirps, placing his blonde head on your shoulder. You jolt upwards, hitting your head hard against his own.

“Owww,” you whine, rubbing the small bump already forming above your temple. “What the Bloody Hell do you think you’re doing Mirio?”

He chuckles deeply, ignoring the forming lump on his head. “Sorry about that y/n, you were just so enraptured with the gossip, I thought it’d be fun to tease you a bit.”

"When do you not tease me?" You sigh dramatically, sinking onto the velvet chaise.

"I would be a poor excuse for a cousin if I didn't," Mirio snickers and places his hand atop your head, ruffling your hair as you squeal and try to bat it away.

In all the excitement and squirming, you fall off the edge of the chaise and onto the floor with a soft thud. Mirio's laughter fills the room until the soft sound of knocking reaches your ears.

"Come in," you call, reaching out a foot and kicking your cousin hard in his left leg. It buckles slightly, and he grits his teeth in a wince, but he smooths out an invisible wrinkle on his dress vest, trying his best to look innocent.

"Mi-lord," Daisy says, poking her head into the drawing room, "Lord Amajiki is here to call on Miss Y/n. Shall I let him in?"

Mirio gives your maid a blindingly brilliant smile that has her knees wobbling beneath her long blue skirt. "There is no need, Daisy. I'll bring him in myself. Could you please put on some tea for our guest?"

"Of course, sir," she replies, dutifully bowing her head and leaving the room.

Mirio limps slightly out the door, no doubt still feeling the weight of your kick to his shin, before turning back to you with a smile. “The man of the hour has arrived, dear cousin. Do get off the floor.”

It’s unladylike but you stick your tongue out at him blowing a raspberry that echos throughout the now-empty drawing room. 

Tamaki really is playing his part well, coming to call, buying you flowers, and going on strolls. You’d like to think that if he were courting you for real, you would be just elated to have such an attentive suitor. 

Getting up from the floor, you pace about the room, wondering how exactly you should greet your gentleman caller. It’s then you glance at your slightly sullied reflection in the mirror.

How could you meet Tamaki looking like this?

You try to fix whatever hairs Mirio messed with earlier sighing when you think you look presentable enough to be worthy of semi-courting the Earl.

Your thoughts darken as they drift back to the day you received your first and only other caller.

~

It was no secret your parents were not a love match. Your mother pursued your father relentlessly, using his high regard for honor against him and trapping him into wedlock with a few tears and several rumors about an illicit affair.

You had been a product of their wedding night, the only night the two of them ever shared a bed. Once you were born, your mother chose to leave you with a wet nurse and move to a luxury townhouse far away from the both of you.

Instead of being heartbroken, your father celebrated the separation and chose to raise you as his sole heir, securing specialized documents from King All Might himself, and naming you, a woman, to be his successor.

It had been a week since your father's passing, and two days since his funeral. You swear you haven’t seen the sun since the day of his accident.

In your grief, you had hidden yourself away from the world. Confined to your room and weeping.

While you wept, however, your mother had already begun planning how she would spend the money left over from his estate. Parties, gowns, tours abroad.

The ideal life of a Wealthy Widow…

But there was still one problem, you.

People like your mother don’t back down from a challenge easily. As soon as the news of your father's will reached her ears, she made her way to you. Bringing along with her an ‘acquaintance’.

If your butler had not informed you who the woman downstairs was, you wouldn't have recognized your own Mother standing before you. 

“Y/n,” she called with a sickenly sweet tone. “Come down here. I have someone who is very interested in meeting you.”

Leaving your room for the first time in days, you make your way to the staircase. Each creak of the steps seems to scream at you to turn back, to run away. But in your state of grief and confusion, you come face to face with none other than your first caller.

Lord Paget is a horrid man of three and seventy. But he looks much older than that, with sickly skin and beady dark eyes that look like portals into the very depths of despair. They narrow into slits as he looks you over with a sneer. 

The man had been married eight times before, all beautiful young women, all from less than comfortable families, and all dead before their twenty-fifth nameday.

Staring into his eyes, your knees feel as if they are to give out at any moment.

“She’ll do.” he rasps as he hands your mother an envelope and leaves the two of you alone.

Your mother wraps her arms around you tightly. But her embrace feels nothing like the way your fathers did. It’s almost as if she is a snake coiling itself around its prey and squeezing. “isn’t this wonderful? I found you a husband. “

“A husband?” That can’t be right. You blink, confused at her meaning. 

“yes, once you marry the Lord, you don’t have to worry about all those pesky finances. We can deal with them so you don’t have to. “she says, grabbing your chin harshly. “your father was out of his mind to give you all this. But I am here to fix it.”

You manage to free yourself from her grip, “That is ridiculous.” you object with a glare. “That man is old enough to be my grandfather. You have no right~,” 

*Slap

Your cheek stings from the weight of your mother's hand against the skin and you stumble backward onto the cold floor.

“You ungrateful little brat.” she hisses, staring down at you. “Like it or not, I am your guardian. I may not have any power over the estate, but until you are married, I own you…”

The realization of her words cut you far deeper than any knife could. She’s right. As your guardian, she can manage all of your other affairs. If she wants to force you into a marriage, all she would need was a license from a clergyman. 

If Paget became your husband. He and your mother would be able to take everything your father had left you. You knew you had to leave that house before they force you into anything.

With a self-assured smirk, she leaves you alone on the floor promising to be back tomorrow to help finalize wedding details

You wrote an expression to Mirio that day, telling him vaguely of your troubles. Before packing your bags and following just behind the letter, rushing towards safety like a racehorse on its track.

~

 When Mirio took you in, you chose to tell him the reason you left was due to a pushy suitor and a mother who was uninterested in letting you come out into society.

At the time you justified it, he shouldn’t have to know the little details.

And now, as you fix the last out-of-place hair on your head, you turn away from your reflection and paste through the drawing room, trying to shake those bad memories from your thoughts.

Relaxing has never been your strong suit, especially now. Your hands fidget limply at your sides and your breaths come out in shaky exhales.

The Earl and Mirio will be joining you at any moment and you are not fit to be seen in this state of distress. 

The crystal decanter on top of the bar cart catches your eye. The deep amber liquid inside sits innocently on its platter. Mirio drinks this kind of stuff all the time when he is stressed. Maybe you should try to drown your sorrows as well.

With a shrug, you grab it and take a deep gulp of the liquid. As it rests on your tongue, you try to figure out what exactly Mirio drinks.

Is it Brandy?

Is it Rum?

Whatever it is, the disgusting flavor sends you into a fit of deep coughing. Tears well in your eyes and you scan the room for something to cover the foul taste of old perfumy liquor that grows stale on your tongue.

With Daisy out fetching the refreshments for your caller, the tea table is spotless, with the exception of a few pale blue cloth napkins. You grab the one at your own table setting and try to wipe the taste from your lips and tongue. 

“Not much of a drinker, are you cousin?” a chipper voice calls from behind you.

With the napkin in your mouth, you turn your head to see the two gentlemen standing in the doorway staring at your struggles and trying in vain to contain their laughter with tight lips.

It’s Mirio who cracks first, his booming laughter filling the room and rattling the windowpanes. Tamaki at least tries to excuse his chuckle as a tickle in his throat, but the mischievous look in his indigo orbs tells you that he had witnessed the whole scene.

“It appears that way,” you cough, feeling the embarrassment prick at your skin. 

“A-are you alright?” the Earl asks kindly, pulling a violet handkerchief from his breast pocket and handing it to you. The kind smile he gives you puts you at ease but makes you aware of the strange way your stomach flutters in his presence.

“Yes, thank you, my Lord.” you breathe gently, dabbing the drop of liquor from the corner of your lip. “I apologize. You certainly were not meant to see that.”

“See what?” he teases, taking the handkerchief from your outstretched skin. Your fingers brush delicately as he pulls away, sending a little shock between the two of you. The chatter dies on your lips and you look shyly at the ground. 

Thankfully, Mirio breaks the silence, clasping a hand on your shoulder, doing the same to Tamaki. “Well, thank you y/n for that little interruption. But I believe your caller has something they would like to ask of you.”

Tamaki shoots a little glare at his friend before looking up to meet your eyes. “Yes… My Lady. It’s about the ball tomorrow night. Would you allow me to fill your dance card for the evening?”

“The whole card?” you ask. Your eyes widen at the thought. Two dances would be more than enough to show the Ton that the two of you are courting, but over three can be considered improper in some circles.

“Yes, I know it seems a bit.. well.” He clears his throat. “risque, but I believe it would convince everyone that we are serious about eachother. I spoke with Mirio about it on the way in, but all he said was that it was ultimately up to you.”

“I see,” you say thoughtfully. While dancing the night away with Tamaki sounds alarmingly intoxicating, you have to think about next season…

When the two of you no longer have to spend time together.

“How about three dances?” you say “After that, you can find a way to excuse yourself from the Ball. It would take about an hour and a half of your time.”

“Sounds Perfect, he says with a relieved smile.

The damn fluttering feeling returns to your stomach, but you grin and bear it. 

“Wonderful,” Mirio cheers, clapping his hands together, “Then if the two of you are in agreement, perhaps you should accompany y/n to the modiste to pick up her gown in my stead, Tamaki.”

“Would that really be alright?” Tamaki asks furrowing his brow.

“It’s broad daylight,” he laughs. “If anyone says anything, just say you are two lovebirds on a stroll.”

“And where will you be?” you ask Mirio.

“As Viscount, I have many affairs to manage,” he says, guesting to the thick stack of letters on the table.

“I suppose that’s normal,” you mumble, looking to the Earl for his approval. “It’s not too far of a walk.”

“Then we shall,” he gulps, “Let’s get going then. I’ll bring along a footman.”

With a nod, the two of you leave the estate and head off to town.

~

The Modiste pokes you with yet another needle as she adds a few alterations to the gown for tomorrow's Ball. muttering an unfocused apology in her thick french accent before she looks at you with bright eyes.

“Miss, how do the sleeves feel? Can you move your arms?”

Slowly you raise them, testing out the way the fabric pulls with your motions. If Tamaki was here, you are sure he would compare the movements to that of a bird. “I believe so. What do you think, Madam?”

She bites at her lip before tugging at the gown. “It could be a bit looser,” she says, looking up at you with a grin. “I suppose you shall be quite busy tomorrow night.”

Right away, you know she is inquiring about your budding romance with the Earl. Next to Lady Whistledown, there is no other way to spread gossip quite like a trip to the modiste. You put on your best-smitten smile and sigh longingly.

“Yes, the Earl came to call this morning with a large bouquet of flowers to secure a space on my dance card.” It's partially a lie, but the hungry look in her eyes lets you know she is eating this story out of the palm of your hand. “May I tell you a secret?”

“Of course you can My Lady, I won't tell a soul,” she replies quickly with the sewing needle still stuck between her teeth. 

“Lord Amajiki filled three spaces on my card,” you chuckle, trying your best to sound like all the other fawning debutantes she sees. “Can you believe that?”

“Isn't that so romantic?" she sighs, finishing the stitching on your arms.,"When you need a wedding gown, come to me.”

You toss your head back with elegant laughter and try your best to sound coy. “Perhaps.” 

“Well then, you’re all set.” she smiles, taking a final look at your finished gown. “When the earl sees you in this, he may just get down on one knee right away.”

“Do you think he would,” you say, taking a small glance at yourself in the mirror. The cut of the gown suits you rather well. Giving a gentle glow to your skin.

“Absolutely, My Lady, you look like a Diamond.” she squeals, helping you out of the garment. 

As she boxes up your gown, you find yourself lost in thought.

Would this dress really get Tamaki’s attention?

Why do you want it so badly? 

~

Stepping out of the Modiste you spot Tamaki sitting quietly on the bench where you left him. His nose deep in a book. His footman takes the parcel from you as they approach. 

“Are you all set?” he asks placing his little booklet inside a small black satchel.

“Yes, I hope you weren't waiting too long,” you apologize, “there was an issue with my sleeves.”

“It’s not a problem, it was fairly quiet out today so I was able to get a bit of reading done,” he says walking alongside you.

“S-shall I see you home?” he stammers holding an arm out for you to take. He is nervous again, in an effort to make him feel more comfortable in your presence you elect to participate in some small talk.

“Do you like to read often my Lord?” you ask politely enjoying the fresh spring air. 

“I love to read,” he says “Books were welcome companions on my travels.”

Conversing with the Earl is easy, the two of you talk about books and his adventures the whole walk home. By the time you approach the front door of the estate, you almost wish to turn around and start the excursion again.

“It appears this is it for today,” you say, “Thank you for accompanying me today My Lord.”

A pinkness appears on his cheeks that must be from the exercise. “It was my pleasure.” the words die on his lips. “Oh wait, I almost forgot.”

“Forgot what?” you ask tilting your head slightly.

“This,” he declares He reaches into the breast pocket of his waistcoat and pulls out a long black velvet box. Opening it up carefully you are met with the sight of a sliver chain adorned with deep purple amethysts. 

“It’s lovely,” you breathe looking at the necklace, “but why are you giving this to me?”

“It was my mothers,” he smiles fondly running his finger over one of the gems. “I want you to wear this to the ball in her Memory. Um, I’m not being too presumptuous, am I?”

“Not at all, Tamaki.” you smile, “I would love to wear this tomorrow.”

Gently he lifts the necklace out of the box and holds it out for you to try on. “May I?” he asks, a few strands of his dark hair falling elegantly in his face as he leans in.

Nodding dumbly you let him place the chain around your neck. He fumbles with the latch and you let your eyes flutter shut. No man has ever been this close to you, and he smells almost like a garden. 

The sound of your heartbeat thumbs wildly in your chest and you hope that he can’t hear it. It’s not excitement you feel, nor is it fear. The feeling that you were feeling right now with the earl‘s arms wrapped around you it’s something you’ve never felt before.

And you want to know more.

“There you are,“ he mumbles into your ear as he pulls back to admire the necklace. “ you- it looks beautiful.” He says staring at you with lidded eyes.

Now is definitely not the moment to speak, all you do is stare back at the Earl too entranced to interrupt this moment. Whatever it is.

The door to the Manor bursts open and Daisy steps quickly between the two of you. “ My Lady, the Viscount wishes to see you in his study.“

Tamaki seems to blink awake and takes a few stunned steps back. “ I will take my leave then, I shall see you tomorrow.” He says with a curt little bow and walks down the steps to the awaiting carriage.

“It’s urgent,” she says taking your arm and leading you inside with wide eyes.

Walking briskly down the hallway, your mind is filled with the Earl and the feeling of his breath on your skin

Does he know? That at least as of now, that little ruse of yours is weaving a very tangled web of your emotions. 

Trembling you push open the door to the study. Guilt pricks at your heart as you walk in.

He has his back to you but you can make out his blonde head behind his armchair.

He doesn't turn to face you at all, all he does is extend his hand toward the empty armchair across from him. 

His voice has never been colder “Please sit down.”

Afraid he will turn you out to walk around and grip the armrest with your still gloved hand. “If it's all the same to you Cousin, I’d rather stand.”

Just a glance at his face makes you regret your utterance as his knuckles clench and turn an angry white color. “You will sit,” he says staring at you with his blue eyes full of hurt.

As you situate yourself tensely n the edge of the seat you give out a shaky exhale. Just as you are about to speak he silences you with a raise of his hand.

“How long have you been planning on lying to me?”

Thank you so much for your patience with chapter 3. let me know if you would like me to continue this series.

Tagging: @sparklytamaki @hermaeuswhora @aprilshiraeth @disaster-they @tired-raven @tokyometronetwork @tiroftiaw

@vatuuxa

[lady-ashfade]

★~*･ﾟFade’s Collab Event Masterlist

This is the masterlist for the collab of wonderful writers. The post is here. But this is where you will everything posted.

*warnings are displayed*

-`｡ﾟ˘: ﾟ⋆ ––✷☽ ᱬ ☽✷––⋆ ﾟ: ˘ ﾟ｡.`-

Fantasy Tropes

Royalty Au by @breakdawn-avenue

Characters: Shoto Todoroki/mha characters

WARNING: none

Summary: It was your sister’s dream to become a knight. However, due to circumstances, she couldn’t. So you decided to step up for her and do everything to succeed. A little surprise awaited you the evening before your accolade. These awaken deeply hidden memories. Tomorrow couldn’t come soon enough.

Fantasy Bounty hunter au

*unclaimed*

Space Bounty hunter au

*unclaimed*

Pirate Au

*unclaimed*

Masquerade @hopelesswritergall with Aemond Targaryen

WARNINGS: *unknown*

Romantic

Enemies to lovers

*unclaimed*

Fake dating by @targaryenluvs

Character: Clark Kent

WARNINGS: Fake Dating Trope, Obsession, Jealousy, Dark themes, Cursing, Non-Consensual Kissing/Touching, Implied Sex, Baby Trapping

One Bed by @aphroditelovesu

Character: Benedict Bridgerton

WARNING: *unknown*

Vacation Confession

*unclaimed*

Random

Murder mystery

*unclaimed*

Found family by @olympus-library

Character: Rhaenrya Targaryen

WARNINGS: full angst, mention of death, slight!yandere, short dabble/imagine

Alien crashes into background

*unclaimed*

Friday the 13th

*unclaimed*

Hybrid/Creatures

Adopted Hybrid

*unclaimed*

Found hybrids

*unclaimed*

Mermaids by @serxinns

Characters: yandere class 1A

WARNINGS: *yandere is all so far*

Werewolfs

*unclaimed*

*anyone is allowed to join! Just message me*

[liliesoftherain]

My Everlasting Alstroemeria

Pairing: Bakugou Katsuki x Reader; Midoriya Izuku x Reader 

Genre: Fluff, Slight Angst? 

Summary: Part 2 of Alstroemeria

A/N: Hi y’all, here's part 2!! Bakugou’s Pov. Let me know if you want a Deku pov????

-----

“Say hello dear; this is Lady (l/n) and her lovely daughter, Miss (y/n) (l/n).”

Katsuki stands there as The Lady bows gracefully with her daughter following suit, so he straightens and greets them as he’s been taught to. 

The Lady smiles, turning to his mother, and converses about something he has already tuned out. He stares at you, all properly cleaned and groomed--he wants to roll his eyes. He hasn’t encountered many girls his age before, but he knows they were all too, too girly.

“Katsuki, why don’t you show Miss (l/n) around the gardens outside? I am sure she will appreciate the sights,” His mother gently shoves him closer to where you stood, grinning triumphantly and looking at your mother with a wink. “Now, friend, we have an entire tray of biscuits calling our name--shall we?” 

The adults walk off to the parlor, and Katsuki knows they’ll have a perfect view of the gardens from there. Just great, he has to continue to pretend to be nice. 

He saunters away, yet doesn’t make it more than three steps as he realizes you still haven’t moved. How bothersome. 

“Are you coming, or not?”

“Oh, um, of course!”

Katsuki actually rolls his eyes this time, all while struggling to keep his hands from entering his pockets--he can still feel the welts of his mother’s fan as she reminded him of how improper he acted. You keep quiet, and he supposes it’s better than you talking his ear off like the other boys from his school. 

The garden was nothing new to him, the same flowers and exotic plants, perfectly trimmed and on display. The marble fountain in the center of it all was always a fan favorite--even if he could care less about the structure. 

Despite his feelings, he noticed that your wide eyes have settled upon it so he brings you close enough to view the detailed carvings along the sides. 

“It’s beautiful!”

“I suppose.”

He huffs, sitting on the ledge as you continue to admire it. The longer you stare, the more aggravated he grows, and he can’t help as he stands to shout for your attention.

“Hey! It’s just a fountain--Woah!”

Katsuki wasn’t expecting you to be leaning down to touch the water so close to where he was, so the moment he stands and turns he ends up bumping into you--sending you straight into the water. 

The fountain isn’t deep, so you sit up without a struggle, but you are soaked. Your hair is ruined, and you spit water from your mouth. Rubbing your eyes of stray droplets, Katsuki winces at the fact you will start to cry at any moment--as well as the hits he’ll receive later, although he tries not to think about it.

“I, what were you, are you okay? Why were you so close to me?”

He grabs you by the arms and tries to pull you out, sending nervous glances to the large windows to his left. He can tell you’re still processing what happened; you’re rapidly blinking and proving to be of little help as Katsuki drags you out and plops you to sit on the edge--much to his annoyance. 

When your (e/c) eyes bore into his own, he knows this is it; this is the moment where you’ll start to throw a fit, and he’ll never hear the end of it.

“Don’t cry, for the love of--”

Instead of tears, he is granted with laughter that thoroughly confuses him--why were you laughing? You chortle loudly, gripping the sides of your stomach and leaning forward. Katsuki doesn’t know whether he should steady you or step back, so he just stays still, watching as your body shakes and shivers from the breeze--yet you still laugh.

“What, just what is so funny?” Exasperation tugs his lips downward, and you struggle to contain yourself.

“Sorry. I just can’t help it--I, I fell into a fountain! Mother is going to be furious.”

You stand, and Katsuki jumps back to avoid getting wet; your skirts are weighed down by the water, and it falls to the ground around your shoes. Although, it doesn’t matter much, seeing as your shoes are also soaked straight through. His eyes narrow and his mouth twists in amusement, he struggles to contain his own laughter at the full sight of you.

“You look like a wet cat.”

“I feel like a wet cat.”

“You aren’t going to cry, are you?”

“Cry?” You tilt your head in confusion, grasping the ends of your dress to ring out as much water as you could. “Why would I cry?”

“Because, um, well, because you fell?”

“So?”

“So now your dress is ruined. Don’t you girls care about stuff like that?”

“It will dry, won’t it?” You shrug, grinning brightly up at him. “Besides, these dresses are pretty itchy.”

Huh. You were strange--especially for a girl. 

-----

“Katsu!” 

He turns at the sound of your voice, watching as you hike your skirts up and run towards him. He faintly hears your mother yelling at you to behave, to act more proper, but you pay no heed as you continue on. You’re out of breath by the time you reach him, yet you’re still grinning wide, with a missing tooth on display.

“You’re not supposed to run like that--you act like such a boy sometimes.”

He has to look away as you puff your cheeks in protest, smoothing your dress down as if it would help. You were awfully annoying. 

“How mean of you Katsu, I came for you to be nice and play with me, not for you to be grumpy.”

“I am not grumpy!”

“You are too!”

Katsuki huffs, flicking your forehead before running further off into the woodland behind the manor. The yelp of aggravation causes him to laugh, and he turns back to see you chasing after him--the bottom of your dress collecting dust and you weren’t upset about it. 

Good, he didn’t want to be friends with a girl who was fussy and cry-babyish after all. 

-----

“Katsu!”

He holds in a sigh, seeing the table you have set before you--the same table you have been decorating differently for the last week in fact. Why did you have to do this anyway? What was the point of setting a table--didn’t the maids do that? Who cares what it looks like, it was just for gossiping ladies wasn’t it? 

He spots another occupant and the table, and this time he cannot hold in his sigh of annoyance. Of course, Izuku had to be here, the little wimp never knew how to say no to you.

“Katsu, come sit and enjoy some tea!”

Your smile was small--formal--and Katsuki found the sight rather gross. Still, he sat down. Not because you asked him to, he was just tired after having to come all the way to your home. That was all.

“Good to see you, Katsuki!” Izuku waves shyly.

“I would say likewise, but it would not be gentlemanly of me to be dishonest.”

“Behave.”

He rolls his eyes at your input, leaning back in the chair as you come close and pour him a cup of tea. He observes your side profile, the way your brows--that used to be furrow in concentration as you struggled not to spill a drop--now stay smooth and worry-free. You’re graceful and poised, something he wasn’t used to. You catch him looking through the corner of your eye, and you smile sweetly at him. He quickly huffs, looking away annoyed.

Girls were so weird--you were so weird.  

Katsuki watches as you gracefully take your place in the chair across from him, conversing in idle chatter with Izuku about who knows what. You sat straight, arms perfectly crossed over your lap, with a flawlessly pressed gown, and not a hair out of place. 

“I just feel as if something is missing from the décor, don’t you agree?”

“I believe it is lovely, (y/n).” 

“Well, thank you Izu, but I really believe there is just, just something that I need to add.”

You sigh, face screwing up as you ponder, and Katsuki acknowledges that he prefers your face this way. Less put together, more you. It’s easier to make fun of that way, of course.

“Your face will be stuck if you continue looking in such an ugly manner.”

“Oh hush you fiend, I do not need beauty tips from someone whose frown lines are more prominent than his fathers.”

Katsuki exhales quickly, amused at your quick wit. 

Time passes and they leave you, Katsuki sending Izuku off with a warning of his victory at the next fencing match. Yet before he can fully leave your tea room, he glances back and watches as you continue to fret over whatever it could be you need for your final table piece. He turns away before you notice, heading home, and finds himself in his own mother’s parlor. 

Her spread is just about the same as any other boring table, and yet set in the center was a large bouquet of her favorite flowers. Petals decorated around the tins and plates that would have held the food. Scoffing in distaste he leaves for his room, muttering how boring and stupid tea parties were and how he would never understand. 

On his walk home after school the next day, he takes a long way home through a field of flora. He didn’t want to go home right away, that was all, and this was the longest route he knew. It wasn’t his fault it was full of flowers, and it certainly wasn’t his fault as he spotted a vibrant shrub of sunset-colored ones that he just had to pick. 

Once inside his home, he mentally cursed as the first person to notice him was no one other than his mother.

“Katsuki, what are those?”

“Flowers mother, of course.”

His tone didn’t go unnoticed, and Lady Bakugou clicked her tongue at his words. 

“For whom are your, of-course-flowers, to go to?”

“No one. I simply wanted them.”

“You simply wanted an alstroemeria--a romance flower?”

“I just wanted them; I do not care what they are.”

“...What an insufferable child.” She dismissed him with a wave.

He holds his tongue, rushing up the stairs and away from her scrutinizing eyes. A breath of relief stops short as she speaks up once more, a teasing tilt to her voice.

“Would you tell Miss (l/n) I say hello whenever you present her your gift? It has been too long.”

Why were all the women in his life so aggravating?

-----

“Katsuki, can you please try to act as if you are entertained?”

“This is the fourth dance today, (y/n), I cannot be any less than indifferent now.”

You both circle each other, the music from the pianist floods the ballroom and he can tell you were counting in your head along to the beat. He brings you back into his arms, and you stare into his eyes, your own swirling with emotion. Katsuki pulls his gaze away, choosing to look around instead; pride puffs his chest as he sees multiple alstroemerias decorating the room. 

“Oh, of course! You must be exhausted--do you want to stop?”

He’s drawn back to your face, and he curses how he is unable to stop sneaking peeks at your pouted lips. He wants to say yes; he wants to tell you how his feet ache, how since he had barely gotten home from his small business trip with his father a mere few hours ago he wants nothing more than to sleep. 

“No. Now continue before I change my mind.”

The smile that stretches across your face is absolutely radiant, and the laugh bubbles from your lips causes his stomach to twist in ways that he cannot explain. 

You really are a strange and aggravating girl--one he can’t appear to say no to.

-----

“Oh Katsuki, it is adorable!”

He watches as you trace a finger along the broaches front, your once sullen mood has now gone at the sight. When he first arrived he didn’t understand why you looked to be so upset, but the moment you realized it was him you had perked up. 

A part of him wishes to believe you were happy for his return, and not just the idea of presents.

The broach pin he had gotten was something he felt as if he needed to have for you; obtaining it on another one of his trips, this one lasting far longer than most. He went away the entire summer, staying in one of his father’s estates in another area he possesses, for educational purposes. As a future Duke, he was constantly thrown around to learn lands, trade, and the people of surrounding areas--especially of the land he will one day inherit. It was rather taxing, boring, and dare he say lonely. 

Katsuki would never admit it out loud, but your presence was quite missed. 

“Of course it is, my taste is impeccable after all.”

“Yes, the only man who would see the beauty in a woman’s broach.” You laugh at your own taunt, and Katsuki clicks his tongue as he pretends to try and snatch it back.

“I will just keep this then if I am the only one who sees such beauty.”

“No, I am merely jesting! Please, I love it.”

You bring it close to your chest, holding it carefully as if it were the most precious thing you owned, and his heartbeat quickened. He knew that wasn’t true--you may not have been as high in social status as he was, but being the daughter of a Viscount meant you still had luxury in life. As well as being the only daughter of your line meant you were pampered, downright spoiled, and yet you were anything but a pompous brat; you were wonderful, kind, caring, and too sweet for your own good. 

“I really do love it Katsuki. Thank you. I’ll wear it always, it looks just like my favorite flower! My everlasting alstroemeria.”

Maybe you were too sweet for his own good. 

-----

“What are you two doing here?”

Katsuki stands beside Izuku as they both find you in the drawing-room, accompanied by your mother. You both stand and bow, and he and Izuku dismiss the gesture--they are both too familiar to want to be treated with such formalities behind closed doors. Your mother allows the boys to take her spot, and she moves to the other side of the room to grant some privacy. 

“Well, we are all to be busy this season--you especially of course.” Izuku starts, soft eyes not going unnoticed by Katsuki. 

He does all he can to not push him away from your side.

“We came here to wish you luck, you are sure to need it with all this prepping you must endure.” Katsuki sighs, leaning back tiredly as if it was him to be affected.

Your laugh lights a fire within him, and he can’t remember when it had switched from an annoyance to being angelic music.

“You both are too kind--I shall survive, hopefully.” 

You fall into easy conversation, and Katsuki remains reserved to observe. 

You’ve grown throughout the years, no longer were you the wild child who would ambush him with sticks in the grove behind his home. No longer were you the young girl who would step on his toes purposely when he would verbally complain. No, now you were a bewitching young woman, one with an enticing face, enthralling wit, and a beauty like no other. 

If you weren’t the top choice for the season, he would be surprised--no doubt would the rest of the male occupants; it was something he was dreading. The chance to court you would be more difficult with the more callers you had and while he didn’t want to use his status as a flaunting point, he would hope it would keep others at bay until he could propose.

However, no one was as big of a threat as the green-eyed dimwit he called a friend. Katsuki was no fool, he knew Izuku cared for you just as much as he did. How could they not become so enchanted with you? 

You were perfect.

“I am not looking forward to all the dancing, it is different than dancing at home with one of you.”

“Well, you must promise to save a dance for me then.”

“Oh?” You raise a brow, attention focused on him. That’s what he liked to see.

“Yes, you must. I have been subjected to your torture for years now--I have to see if you can hold your composure while under that type of pressure.”

You snort, an extremely unladylike mannerism that he held endearment for, and roll your eyes at his taunts. 

“Well then it is a promise, I shall always make sure to save you a dance,” you turn from him to the other and the illusion of being alone with you vanishes, “the both of you.”

Yes, if there was one person he’d have to watch for, it was going to be Izuku.

-----

“My Lord, this is my daughter, Miss Tokage.”

Katsuki merely greets her respectfully, not fully present in the conversation as he waits for your arrival.

When you do arrive, it is like time had stood still--no one else’s presence mattered except yours. You were ethereal; your seamstress having outdone herself as you wore a gown that did nothing but accentuate all the right traits. Your makeup--while you never needed it--brought out the color of your eyes and the temptations of your lips. Your hair was adorned with alstroemerias of the same beautiful sunset gold as he had brought to you all those years ago, and the urge to propose to you then and there was extremely difficult to hold back.

As his feet began to move toward you, a body blocked the way.

“My Lord, my dances for tonight are free--if you wish to occupy them, that is.”

His eyes flicker back to you, seeing you hanging off your mother’s arm as another suitor reaches you first. As long as it wasn’t Izuku…

He catches his mothers gaze, and she too looks as if she wants for him to turn the girl away. Yet she offers a half-heartfelt smile, and he feels his resolve crumble. That's right, Miss. Tokage was a very prestigious daughter, and it would be a good match. But that's not what he wanted--he wanted you.

He swallows down a sigh, accepting her offer as he writes his name on the first dance and pulls her onto the floor. Dancing with her is much different than with you; she's not the right height, she feels all too wrong in his arms, and the little conversation there is, is dull. Sure, he is probably the cause of that, as he merely offers polite responses and nothing more. He searches for you again, and finds you standing off to the side--the one and only Izuku standing next to you. 

The song ends, and Katsuki means to take his leave to head to you but this girl follows him, and he tries to explain as peacefully as he can that he is no longer interested before he gives up and makes his leave anyways. 

Katsuki searches the dance floor and sees how Izuku twists you effortlessly, and his anger begins to rise. You both are laughing, as always, and yet Katsuki knew it was different than before. This time, it meant so much more than playful banter between childhood friends. 

Without another thought, he pushes himself in your direction with a simple,

“Pardon--”

Your wide eyes fall upon him and his heart stutters.

“Miss (l/n), a dance? A real dance, anyways. Seeing as the ever graceful Izuku may as well have two left feet.”

“Oh, most amusing, Katsuki.”

When you look away, his smirk loses its humor and grows tighter; Izuku’s eyes darken in return. His arm tightens around you, and Katsuki has to bite his tongue lest he say something he’d regret.

When you take his outstretched hand, he calms; you’re the only one who could soothe his soul with something as simple as your touch. He spins you round, before pulling you close--this is what he needed. You fit perfectly into his arms, there was no way anyone could ever replace you.

“How are you this evening, (y/n)?”

“Very well, My Lord.”

Katsuki doesn’t know what to make of your neutral face--normally at these events you joke and tease him, talking the night away, uncaring of the scrutinizing eyes of the guests. Now, it was as if you were truly strangers, speaking formally as any other person would.

After a bit more coaxing, you relax, and even let out an adorable snigger--he bites his lip to hold back a smile. There was the girl he loved.

“May I say, your hair looks lovely tonight--alstroemerias again? It suits you.”

He spins you, slightly longer than before just so he could control his flaming cheeks, and holds you closer when you spin back. All of his life he never understood why he cared for you so much; you were some strange girl his mother had made him escort around until you were so much more. 

He yearned for your quips and teases, he ached for your time and presence, he so desperately desired to spend every moment by your side. You understood him like no other, conversations with you were never dull, always full of life and warm--and he longed to converse with you until he grew old and unable. 

To him you were his path to true happiness, and Katsuki wanted nothing more than to be truly happy. Yet, your happiness mattered more; Katsuki would do anything to ensure it. 

He bowed when the dance finished, and his eyes looked up and locked onto green. Izuku stood off in the crowd, bottom lip caught between teeth before his attention flickered elsewhere. Maybe this was the opportunity he needed to take, to propose here before anyone else could. But fear kept his mouth from moving, what if you were to say no? What if you never spoke to him again? He could let you go if he had to, but did he really have the strength to never be able to be near you again? 

“Thank you for the dance, My Lord. I hope you enjoy the rest of your night.” 

Confusion tore him from his thoughts, words caught in his throat as he watched you hastily walk away. Your tone was sharp, words final as you disappeared in the crowd.

When his eyes flickered to where Izuku once stood, he found that he too was nowhere to be seen.

-----

Katsuki Bakugou has never felt quite this hurt before; the feeling of his heart clenching in pain is something entirely new to him. His body is numb, his hands shake, and the feeling of drowning makes it difficult to breathe. 

He is stuck in place, watching as another puts a flower behind your ear and brings your hand up to his lips. He cannot move as you grow shy, basking in the presence of another man's soft gaze.  

“Izuku…”

“If the Lady is willing to accept, may I be so bold as to call upon her tomorrow?”

“Of course, My Lord.”

That punch to the gut is what it takes for him to come back down to reality, and he quickly turns on his heel and leaves. He aches in silence, leaving the ballroom without any goodbyes, blowing right past the juniper maiden who just couldn’t take the hint. 

None of that was important, he was too focused on his need for a breath as his chest constricts with the lack of oxygen. His gasps ring out into the empty night and he’s forced to learn against a marble pillar lest he falls. 

To be reduced to such a pathetic state angered him, but it was nothing compared to the anger he felt at his so-called childhood friend. 

The anger soon melted into even more pain, and Katsuki clenched his jaw at the way his throat constricted. He knew from the beginning he hadn’t much of a chance, he knew Izuku would be his biggest competition, and yet, there wasn’t one at all. If Izuku won your hear--who was he to argue that?

And so, he knew that nothing will ever be as good as it once was, as you were, nothing will be worth all his effort like you were, no one will ever come close to you. 

But if you were happy, he could pretend to be.

For you, his everlasting alstroemeria.

[lou-struck]

Among The Violets

Tamaki Amajiki x F Reader

Bridgerton! AU

This is my Piece for @bakuroo-writings Romeo, Save Me Collab which you can find HERE.

Warnings: The Patriarchy, corsets, talk of undergarments, large age gaps (mentioned), death of a loved one, insecurity. the reader is Mirio's cousin in this. Fake Dating AU!.

~The Spring season of the Ton is the busiest, most gossip-filled event of the year. All eyes are turned to securing the attention of a recently returned Earl who poses quite a challenge for the vicious mamas who want to sink their teeth into him. All the while, you hope to make it through the season in one peace. But when you see someone backed into a corner you can't help but intervene.

Word Count: 3.4k+

Part 2

Part 3

Dearest Reader,

After what I may call the most dreadful winter in years, I am delighted to announce that once again I have the privilege of reporting to you the comings, goings, and scandals of the Ton.

What could make the start of the season any more exciting than the unexpected arrival of a young and handsome Earl freshly returned after many years abroad, to take his familial seat.

The newly appointed Lord Amajiki may not know it yet, but the Mamas of the ton are more viscous than anything he may have found in the wilds. But we do, don’t we…

It is also important to note that Young Lord Togata will be chaperoning his paternal cousin after the young woman was rumored to have escaped a most disadvantageous marriage to a man more than three times her senior. Let's hope she finds someone a bit younger this time around.

Always Yours

~ Lady Whistledown

“Can you believe this woman?” your cousin laughs setting the parchment on the table in front of you, flopping into a padded armchair. “You haven't come out yet and Tamaki hasn't even been in the country for a day. This Whistledown Character is already throwing the pair of you to the wolves”

“You speak of the Earl as if you know him Mirio,” you say smoothing a wrinkle on your dress, trying to act as unbothered as you can knowing some stranger knows your business. “Are you well acquainted?”

The Blue eyes of your cousin seem to sparkle in remembrance as he sends you his bright smiles. “Very well, y/n. I can’t believe I have never told you about him. We have been friends since we were children and even were roommates in university. I have never seen anyone better with a horse or a sword.”

You’re eyes widen in surprise. While your cousin does tend to be overzealous in his praising of others, he never says anyone is the best at something, his honesty and all-around kindness mean that he will no doubt be swarmed by Mama’s at the ball this evening.

“I’ll have to introduce you to him later then, I’m sure it will be a nice distraction from all those suitors you have to fend off,” he says playfully wiggling his eyebrows at you before politely leaving to head to meet a friend downtown.

"I can only hope that isn't the case," you murmur once the door shuts. With a sigh, you flop down on the armchair in a very unladylike manner, feeling excitement for the event tomorrow night.

Ever since your father passed away you have been dreading coming out into London society, men seem to only want your purity or your dowry. Your mother who didn't want to go with you to any sort of event gave you an ultimatum, Marriage to the first bachelor who comes to call or have you sent to a nunnery. Neither option seemed to be a fair decision for you, but she envied that you were the sole benefactor to your father's estate so much that she wanted to be rid of you entirely.

True to her word you were almost forced into a marriage with a gentleman more than thrice your age. Lord Paget was known for his cruelty to his wives, who didn't live long enough to sire him an heir. When he came to call your mother immediately began discussing an engagement leaving you terrified of what is to become of your future.

When news of this reached your cousin Mirio, he immediately offered to take you in. You were overjoyed. You packed your belongings and left within hours before your mother could cause any more problems.

You love your cousin, and with his parents currently abroad, he is the sole person you trust to be your chaperone at events. He wants you to do what many are unable to do, Marry for love and not because of your hefty dowry. Your goals are much simpler, you only hope that you don't embarrass yourself, for both your sakes.

_______________________________________________

Sitting at your vanity, you wince as your hair is tugged into an intricate updo by one of your cousin's maids. Your grip on the wooden surface is so strong you don't know what will give first, your grip or the furniture. Being poked and prodded isn't something you are particularly fond of but if you are to bring honor to your Cousin then it is a worthy sacrifice.

At least that is what you thought before they brought out an unfamiliar-looking corset, its boning looks more like the armor as you shudder, wondering if they really expect you to wear this under your gown. The air is stolen from your lungs as the laces are pulled making you feel more like a puppet on strings.

“Where did this thing come from,” you wheeze out as the maids stand back and admire their handiwork.

“Paris,” one of them gushes as the rest of your layers are slipped on. The black spots in your vision seem to fade as you look in the mirror at your now fully dressed appearance. The long silk gloves and your simply elegant skirt make you look absolutely regal in the classic old money fashion that those in the Ton places above all else. With a tight-lipped smile, you being to make your descent down the staircase clutching the railing so you don't meet an untimely end before the ball even begins.

You see Mirio looking like the gentleman he is waiting to escort you. When his blue eyes find your own, he sends you a bright smile that makes you question whether or not you should squint. “You look beautiful,” he says extending an arm, “I think you would rival any incomparable .”

I can hardly breathe Mirio, I hope it's worth it,” you say as the carriage heads off into the night towards the event. Your cousin laughs and turns towards you.

“If you’d like, I can wear one of those corsets to your wedding to even the score a bit, I think it would make me look rather dashing,” he says giving you a pose.

“Whatever comes first dear cousin, my wedding or my funeral.” you laugh as you hear the galloping of hooves slow to a stop. Signaling the pair of you have arrived at the ball.

The large staircase and stained glass windows intimidate you to the core as your cousin escorts you looking quite unbothered, but of course, when someone shines as brightly as the sun it takes more than architecture and decor to make them falter.

“Head up, y/n. Let's show the world what they have been missing.” Mirio says giving you a reassuring pat on your forearm at attendants open the large double doors that lead into the ballroom.

The lights of the chandelier and the playing of the orchestra hit you as you make your way through the room dodging servants holding trays of fizzy lemonade. Sawn-necked girls sway gracefully with men whose sideburns are so large they look as if they are about to take flight.

Thankfully your presents seem to deter mamas away from your cousin long enough for you to make the rounds and get a few names on your dance card. As you dance with gentleman after gentleman you can’t help but feel discouraged. It’s naïve to believe that you will ever feel butterflies in your stomach, but the part of you that liked to hide out in your father's library reading romance novel after romance novel still has a hold on your heart.

With a sigh, you move to sit down on a bench trying to ignore the pain in your feet. A small group of girls, all adorned with what must be their family's jewels Are looking around the room, speaking in a hushed whisper.

“ The Earl should be here by now!“ The tall one in a light blue dress says, her dark eyes searching the crowd with the intensity of a hawk.

“Whistledown said so herself,” another one says taking the folded article out from her sleeve. “ if I leave here tonight without so much as talking to him, my mother would kill me.“

“Is that him over there?” The third asks to point towards the entrance. A young man with indigo hair and a gray suit coat walks into the room. The three girls lock their eyes and hurry to find their Mamas so that they can be the first to make an introduction to the young earl.

You track his movements across the room, his quick steps and downcast eyes make you come to the realization that he would rather be anywhere else in the world than at this ball, and he’s only just arrived.

Although you feel sorry for this stranger, it does not stop you from sitting back and enjoying the show that is about to happen before your very eyes.

One by one mother's come pulling their daughters closer to the Earl hoping to sink their teeth in the young flesh of wealth.

They talk and talk of accomplishments never realizing that Tamaki hasn’t even uttered a word. Backed into a corner, he stands tight-lipped, his once downcast eyes show displayed pupils as they dart around the room. It isn’t until you spot the oh-so-subtle tremble of his lips you understand what he is feeling, Fear.

You know that fear, you know the anxiety that comes with the positions you are in. Your heart pulls you in his direction making you want to do something. Not because it's the right thing to do, but because it's what you would've wanted all those months ago when you were sitting across the drawing-room watching the man your mother was hell-bent on marrying you off to.

Your feet carry you across the floor as you gently maneuver your way throughout the pack of wolves till you reach him.

You do realize just how crewed he is when you take a closer look at him. He really is handsome, his indigo eyes remind you of the last light in a sunset, even while looking for an escape his form still appears to be lean and strong.

“Amajiki,” you say politely as his darting eyes land on you, “I have come to fetch you on behalf of my cousin, the young Lord Togata. You send him a knowing look as he nods following you to save him from the distress he was in.

A particularly fierce-looking Mama steps in front of you, arms crossed. “I believe the Earl is currently occupied,” she practically sneers, hoping to make you falter in your rescue attempt with social policy.

Unperturbed by this statement you glance sweetly at the woman, “forgive my intrusion of course, but to my understanding, this is an urgent manner that simply cannot wait another moment.” It’s a lie, but no one else seems to challenge your actions as you swiftly lead the lord out to the open hallway.

“A-are your-really Mirio’s cousin?” he asks quietly, a slight stutter in his words.

“Yes, but I did lie about him needing you urgently,” you admit glancing around making sure that non of the passers-by hear your conversation. “I felt you really needed to get out of there, That Whistledown really put a target on your back.”

“Who is this Whistledown?” he questions. Having never heard of the writer before.

“No one knows, but she writes a society paper dedicated to airing the dirty laundry of the Ton. Your arrival was plastered all over the latest issue,” you explain as he nods along in a calmer manner than before.

“I’d rather be chased by a pack of wolves than face those women again,” he sighs leaning up against the wall. “I hate these things, I just wanna go home.”

“I second that you say grabbing two glasses of sparkling lemonade off of the tray of a passing servant. You hand it to him and he gives you a soft smile, if you thought he was handsome before you really need to find a better word for how he looks when he smiles.

“Thank you for earlier Miss…” he starts cutting himself off when he realizes that he is at a disadvantage of knowing your name.

“If you’d like you can call me y/n. After all, we share a mutual person of importance.” you tease feeling bolder than normal.

“Where is Mirio?” he hums. “Dazzling the masses with a corny joke and an easy smile I presume” His statement causes you to let out a most unladylike snort. You hurry to cover your mouth and pretend it didn't happen.

“I’ll fetch him,” you say quickly turning and making a quick exit before you embarrass yourself further in front of the Earl ignoring the craning heads of those around you.

You find your golden cousin in the center of the largest circle of partygoers as he makes an absolutely terrible joke about Pirates.

Amongst the laughter of obviously drunk gentleman, you are able to get his attention.

“Your friend is here,” you say gesturing to the hallway from which you came.

“Already made a run for it?” he asks with a knowing smile. You nod your head as he excuses himself taking you along with him.

“Have you met him yet?” he asks quickening his pace to one you struggle to keep up with.

“Briefly, please slow down, these shoes aren't made for escape.” you pant as the little air in your lungs becomes scarcer.

“My apologies, I’m just excited. He truly is my best friend after all,” he says slowing his pace down for you.

“What does that make me?” you ask teasingly still aware of the uncomfortableness that occurs with each breath.

“You of course, are my witty cousin, who gets her humor and good looks from my side of the family.” he beams, if Mirios sunshine persona wasn't drawing glances from around you would have rolled your eyes.

Finally, you make it to the nearly empty hallway Tamaki has been hiding away in. When he sees Mirio approaching his face lights up in a way you never pictured it to after the look of discomfort that has made a home on his handsome face.

You stand back so they can reunite, Mirio giving the man a bone-crushing hug as he talks excitedly about how great it is to see his friend again. Sliding down onto one of the large benches you feel the air come back to you all at once. You are comfortable again.

Perhaps too comfortable, you move your hand to the back of your gown and feel it. Your corset has ripped. Your eyes shoot open in alarm as you pray no one has noticed. Getting up you make your way over to your cousin and the earl.

As you approach Mirio turns to you and steps off to the side to include you in their conversation. “Y/n, I'm glad you decided to join us instead of sitting alone by yourself,” he says as Tamaki gives you a little smile.

“Mirio…” you start as your arms wrap tighter around yourself. “We need to leave, now.”

“Has something happened?” he asks as Tamaki stands up straighter.

“The damn thing ripped,” you say gesturing slightly to your now not so snug corset.

“Then we leave at once, I can call for a carriage,” he says a bit louder than he should. You wince and wish you could shrink into the wall.

“Here,” Tamaki says softly, gently draping his coat around your shoulders. “This may make you feel more comfortable, My carriage is at the gates the three of us could take it So you make it home without trouble.“

you nod as the three of you walk around the ballroom towards the exit making sure to draw as little attention to yourselves as possible.

His footman recognized him almost instantly and his carriage is brought up. As he extends a hand to help you in he realizes that there is something unusual in your connection, it’s warm but there’s something else. Even fit through your gloves you can feel the sort of electricity that makes the hair on the back of your neck tingle.

“You’re very good in a crisis Lord Amajiki.” You say softly once seated on the plush seats.

His face turns red as a tomato at your compliment.

“T-thank you, but y-you helped me first.” he reminds you as you think back to your little rescue earlier this evening.

“We are only good in the Crisis of others, if we were good in our own then it wouldn't be a real Crisis.” you laugh taking a peek out the window to see Mirio chatting with a group of his admirers who must have seen him leaving after the two of you.

“I don’t think we will be going anywhere for a while, Mirio always attracts a crowd.” Tamaki groans leaning back against his seat.

You hum and glance over at the crowd that has only gotten bigger. “Like moths to a flame,” you say, “People can't get enough of the light.”

“For as long as I’ve known him, he has always been like the Sun.” he sighs “I’m thankful he is my friend but sometimes I’m worried I drag him down.”

“I understand the feeling,” you say meeting his indigo orbs. “Ever since he agreed to become my chaperone, I have been plagued with the idea of doing something to embarrass him. I want to make it through this season without any trouble but those girls and their mamas are like a pack of wolves when trying to find a match. I realize that maybe being a spinster won't be the worst thing in the world if it means I get to live long enough to enjoy old age.”

“Do you mean that?” he asks suddenly staring at you with an intensity you haven't yet seen on his face.

“I believe so, Everyone wants to play a game and compete with each other. I’d rather hide somewhere until the ambitious girls get married off. But the only way I can really get out of participating would be to have a suitor.” you rest your head against the wall with a huff.

Tamaki is quiet for a moment as he begins to think about your similar situations. Maybe there is a way for the both of you to get what you want.

“Then maybe we could work together,” he says after a while. “If we pretend to be interested in each other then people will leave me alone and you can wait in comfort for the dust to clear.”

Your eyes widen is shock as you try to stand only to hit your head on the roof of the carriage. “Are you insane?” you ask rubbing the small bump on your temple. Who would believe us, we are strangers?”

“Not strangers anymore,” he says shyly looking down at the floor. “Please, trust me. When you find someone else we can end this.” Between his pleading eyes, handsome face, and your possible concussion you can’t find a reason to reject his proposal.

“I accept, on one condition.” you say holding out a hand, “You have to be the one to tell Mirio.”

His face pales but a look of determination sets on his features as he goes to shake your hand. “It’s a deal, Miss Y/n.”

With the shake of your hand, you strike a bargain that will change both your lives as you know it.

[lou-struck]

Tamaki Amajiki x F Reader

Bridgerton! AU part 2

PART 1

Part 3

Warnings: The Patriarchy, mention of past trauma, insecurity. Fake Dating AU!.

~You and Lord Amajiki have struck a deal to occupy each other's time for the remainder of the season.

Word Count: 4k

Dearest Gentle Reader, 

If life truly is a stage as one bard suggests, we all have our assigned roles. Some members of the Ton such as I do our best to report while others act on the knowledge they have obtained. Or at least they try to…

After the events of last night's ball, many young ladies and their Mamas are wondering the same thing about the newly returned Lord Amajiki. “Has his extensive time abroad washed away his ability to speak?” For he hadn't uttered a word over the course of the evening till being rescued by the likes of Lord Togata or the very least, his fair cousin Miss Y/n. 

The young heroine charged straight into a crowd of blood-hungry Mama’s and was able to save the silent Earl from an unpleasant evening. But the pair's acquaintance was not short-lived. After a rather hasty exit from the three, The members of Lord Toagta’s party were seen stepping into the Earl's carriage.

Could this mean Miss Y/n has stolen the season's most eligible bachelor without so much as a dance? What other talents is this young lady in possession of?

You gulp as you read the last line on this morning's society paper. You knew that news travels fast in the Ton but this is getting a bit ridiculous. The ball was only last night, how could these accounts be published so quickly?

“Miss, are you feeling alright?” a maid asks softly freeing you from your thoughts. “You look rather pale”

Placing the parchment on the table your lips upturn into a kind smile. “Yes Daisy, I’m alright. I must still be a bit tired from the excitement of last night.”

Your response seems to satisfy her as she nods “I understand Miss, I’ll fetch you some tea to help you wake up a bit.”

Once you are once again alone in the sunroom to reread Lady Whistledown’s recap your head is spinning but the only thing you are able to make out on the page is ‘’Lord Amajiki’.

Did the conversation between the two of you really happen or has the oxygen deprivation from your now irreparable corset given you brain damage?

Daisy comes back into the room carrying a silver tray with your tea and a few pastries on it.

“Daisy, do you know where my cousin is this morning? He hasn't yet come down to entertain us with his account of the evening?”

“He left early this morning to go to the stables with Lord Amajiki,” she says placing a floral teacup in front of you You can see your reflection in the reflection of the liquid, it becomes clouded over as you pour a generous amount of cream into the steaming mixture.

You gently raise the cup to your lips and take a sip “I see, did he say when he would return?”

“I believe he said a few hours Miss, but as you know, the young Lord Togata is... Well…”

“Unpredictable?” you offer as she nods. “Will you join me?”

She looks around before placing her hand on the chair across from you, “I don't mean to intrude,”

“And you wouldn't be intruding, Besides, it's a bit lonely around when Mirio isn't here." Your words persuade her and she sits down across from you gently.

Daisy smiles and pours herself a cup of tea, "I suppose I have a few minutes she says quietly. "I do have to get the house ready for dinner this evening."

"I didn't realize we were having company tonight," you murmur taking another sip of your tea.

Daisy's eyes widen as she shifts in her seat. "You mean you don't know?"

"Know what?

"The Earl is coming tonight."

You nearly choke on your drink, "He's coming tonight? When did you find out about this?"

With lightning-fast reflexes, Daisy hands you a handkerchief while you collect your bearings. Once you recover you excuse yourself to walk about the gardens. Your head is lost in thought as questions pace through your still tired brain.

Does Tamaki still intend to help you out?

Does Mirio know about your arrangement?

What if the pair of them are pulling some kind of unusually cruel joke on you?

You feel as if you are floating through the day completely consumed in the cloud of your woe. It isn't till the last hairpin has scraped your scalp that you realize that your anxiously anticipated guest has arrived and you are expected to be downstairs to greet him as a member of the household.

Walking through the hallways you hear the sound of your cousin's animated storytelling from the Library

Poking your head around the corner you see the two of them clutching their glasses of amber-colored liquid as they seem to be catching up after a long time apart. Tamaki may not be the one leading the conversation, but the Earl looks at peace.

A small happy smile takes over his features as he nods along to Mirio’s stories. Suddenly his eyes shift and see your form in the doorway. His smile falters to a quick look of nervousness.

Upon noticing the Earl’s attention focused elsewhere your cousin notices you in the doorway. “Y/n, I'm glad you are able to join us. You remember Tamaki, don't you?” the blond says with a happy smile.

“How could I forget?” you answer politely turning to face the darker-haired man and giving him a curtsey “Thank you again for helping us out last night my Lord,”

“I-it was no problem Miss.” he stammers out quickly before turning his attention to the silver cufflinks on the sleeve of his indigo waistcoat.

With a soft clasp of his hands, Mirio gets your attention. “Well, since we are all here how about we head down for dinner."

With a nod, you follow the gentlemen out of the library and down the hall in awkward silence hoping that a meal would somehow manage to fill the void in conversation.

~

It does not.

Even Mirio's chatter falls victim to the gentle scraping and clanging of silver on porcelain. Between small bites, your eyes keep darting to the Earl who won't so much as look at you.

Perhaps he is no longer interested in playing a role in the farce he cooked up in the carriage last night. You don't blame him, maybe the prospect of attention of dozens of ladies is beginning to appeal to the young man after all.

While unsure of his intentions you are still determined to make it through your first season in the Ton in one piece. Skipping the festivities is out of the question, but if you focus on enjoying yourself then perhaps you can avoid the stress and heartache that looking for a suitor would bring.

You don't know if you are ready to go through all that again…

Shaking your head clear of the dark clouds infringing on the outskirts of your psyche you try to divert your attention to the meal on your plate. Your stomach is in knots but you find a bit of solace in moving its contents around to make it look as if you’ve eaten more than you had. Every once in a while you glace up from the porcelain at the Earl.

His knuckles are white around his fork and he flinches when your eyes land on him. He is quietly ignoring you and you feel a pang of hurt in your chest. What has happened between your agreement from last night to now that makes him act so coldly towards you. The silence is unbearable, you want so badly to excuse yourself and retreat into the safety of your room away from this awkwardness.

Just as you are about to do so the door a footman rushes in quietly and says something to Mirio in a hushed tone. He gives the two of you a smile and stands from his chair. "I'll be back shortly, there is a matter I must attend to."

He turns and walks out with the footman leaving you alone with Lord Amajiki. Once the coast is clear he sighs heavily and your brow twitches in annoyance.

"My Lord, you have scarcely said a word to me all night." you say suddenly "If you have no intention of following through with what we discussed last night then please let me know."

At your words a look of panic flashes across his face, "No!" he exclaims nearly jumping out of his seat causing you to flinch at the movement gripping the armrest of the chair defensively. "My apologies. I-i just can't get our conversation last night out of my head, I could scarcely sleep." for the first time this evening, you are able to get a closer look at his handsome face. The weariness of his features is apparent, he really does look like he had a restless night

You shift in your chair in shame, you had only been thinking of yourself, but this arrangement would impact the Earl as well. "I'm sorry, I was selfish. Causing you any harm was not my intention," you pause to take a breath noting the heat blossoming underneath your skin. "It was a foolish idea, I hope that the two of us may become friends."

"Miss y/n, please believe me. I still want to go through with the arrangement." he says comfortingly" I have been so worried that you may have changed your mind with this farce I didn't wish to make you uncomfortable."

The relief that courses throughout your body is palpable. You nod slowly at him, "This is what you truly want?"

"I do, and you."

"Very much so," you say quietly. "However, for this to work we need Mirio's support."

"My support for what?" a cheerful voice says in your ear. Turning your head you see Mirio's head on your shoulder and a mischievous smile plays on his lips.

You glance at Tamaki and his pale face and he nods at you before clearing his throat. “Mirio, the two of us have something we’d like to tell you.”

"Oh? is that so?" he moves around the table and back to his chair. "you have my full attention."

"Well..." Tamaki starts looking at you for a bit of support. You nod quietly as he continues. "Y/n and I were talking last night and we realized that we are in a similar predicament. As outsiders, we feel the Ton is ready to eat us alive. It seemed reasonable to suggest that we could help each other out and feign interest in each other until the dust has settled a bit."

"You would pretend to court?" your cousin asks with a blank look.

"Yes, only for the season," you say suddenly. "Mirio, what you have done for me this past month has been so generous. And I do intend to marry someday. But not this season, I want to enjoy all the festivities the season brings without having to be focused on fighting a dozen other Ladies and their Mamas for the attention of a gentleman." His features soften as he takes in what you are saying.

"I see. Y/n, I think of you as my little sister and as long as you are under my care you will never have to be forced into being with someone you do not wish to be with. But Tamaki, why is it that you want to do this?"

Tamaki clears his throat again. "After coming into this title and returning to the Ton I see just how bloodthirsty people get at the prospect of marrying someone for status." he looks at Mirio with a knowing look and fidgets his hands. "I-i have never liked being the center of attention, I need to do my duties and be active in society. But if I have to spend my evenings surrounded by vicious and pushy Mothers trying to shove their daughters in my face, I won't be able to bring myself to do so."

"If we can Convince the Ton that we are both interested in each other, we can avoid both these problems until we are ready to seriously look for a partner," you say confidently. "But Mirio, I want to know that you'll be on our side, we want nothing more than to blindside you."

Mirio places his hand on his chin and begins to think about what the two of you just said. This silence is full of contemplation and fear. you and Tamaki look at eachother then back to Mirio who has an unexpectedly serious look on his face.

"This plan is very...underhanded." he says looking you in the eyes. The corners of his lips turn into a grin "I like it."

You sigh in relief and go to hug your cousin. "Thank you Mirio, you keep saving me I don't know what I would do without you."

"You have to promise me something y/n," he says softly. "Don't let this get in the way of you being happy."

"I promise," you say squeezing him tightly.

With the weight of your arrangement off your shoulder, the rest of the evening goes on smoothly while Mirio helps the two of you prepare your strategy for the upcoming social events in the plush chairs of the study.

"Balls are one thing," Mirio says "but if you really want to make an impression you should go to the pointless little things together. Races, picnics, the works. Not only are you able to make more of an impression in the Ton, but you’ll also still be able to have fun.”

"I see," Tamaki says "the more attached we seem the fewer people will try to intervene." The little smile on his face at the prospect of peace makes your chest feel a bit funny but you ignore it.

"There is a picnic tomorrow down by the lake," Mirio instructs. "We should all go, after all, I am to play the part of your chaperone."

A little giggle slips past your lips "oh yes because the Ton would think it improper for a young woman to be left alone with a man in public." Tamaki's cheeks flush a bright red at your comment from across the room.

"You tease poor Tamaki, y/n." your cousin replies with a laugh. By the time the fireplace dies down the three of you have crafted a few plans for the upcoming social events you must attend.

After the earl takes his leave you prepare to head up to bed but notice Mirio stepping into his study. "It's a bit late to be working Mirio, can't you wait till tomorrow?"

He gives you a little smile, "Look at you always looking out for others, don't worry about me. I just have one little thing to look at then I'll retire myself."

He retreats behind the closed door leaving you alone in the hallway. The fatigue from the day catches up to you as you slip into your nightdress and lay down on your plush mattress and fall into a dreamless sleep.

~

The sunlight peers through your window as your eyes flutter open. The change between yesterday and this morning is monumental, there are no pangs of hopelessness and anxiety rattling through your chest since the Earl has confirmed his willingness to be involved in your farce. Today you will be able to go out into society on the arm of a bachelor.

The idea of not having to scamper about trying to stay out of the way of the marriage-minded wolves is peaceful now that others believe you have secured the attention of Lord Amajiki. You change into a simple light-colored frock that would be perfect for the picnic down by the waterfront. You imagine yourself soaking up the sun and sipping on lemonade and playing backgammon without a care in the world.

To say you are excited is an understatement. By the time the carriage arrives, you are practically springing down the steps like a Gazelle skipping a few at a time. Mirio is waiting for you just outside with a happy smile on his face

"Good Morning, y/n. You look to be in good spirits," he says extending a hand to help you into the carriage. He walks around to the footman wishes him a good morning and climbs inside as it beings to drive down the road.

"Good morning, is Tama~ Lord Amajiki meeting us at the waterfront?" you ask tilting your head in curiosity.

"Yes, he will meet us and then stay with us for the remainder of the day, I suggest the two of you take a stroll around the lakefront just to catch the eye of the Ton so you can cement your mutual attachment."

"A supposed attachment," you correct as your cousin smirks at you.

"yes, but the two of you may very well end up becoming attached to each other for real," he teases.

Your cheeks burn as you peek through the thick curtains of the carriage at the glistening water of the lake. "I doubt it. I'm sure that once the season ends everything will go back to normal. The Earl will have his peace and so shall I." Mirio looks at you for a moment quietly, the smile on his face drops in favor of a look of concern. The carriage comes to a stop and you stand abruptly. "If you'll excuse me," you say pushing open the door and walking out into the sunlight leaving him in the seat.

Looking around you see the familiar dark carriage belonging to the Earl Through the greenery. He steps out in a light-colored tunic and jacket. His eyes find your own and once Mario comes into view, he steps over quickly bowing to the both of you.  Which you return graciously.

“Good morning Lord Togata, Miss Y/n.” He says softly giving you a soft smile that you return.

Looking around to see if anyone is in earshot you are satisfied that no one will hear what you have to say. “Are you ready to play your part Lord Amajiki?” 

“ Just as one Bard suggests.” He answers holding out his right arm for you to take. You gently place your gloved hand under his arm and crawl your hand over the back of it just as all other ladies do in society when being escorted. Mirio follows behind you as a chaperone managing to find an acquaintance to chat with along the way.

Looking up at him through the wisps of your stray hairs you laugh, “ so you have looked into Lady Whistledown, I didn't take you for a reader of Gossip sheets.”

He looks a bit embarrassed as his eyes find the ground and his cheeks turn pink. “ I felt it was necessary to know what was being said about us,” he admits

"I'm only teasing," you say comfortingly "I'm afraid you'll find my cousin and I share the same sense of humor."

His eyes widen in shock as he turns to you. "Is it too late for me to back out of this arrangement?" The look of surprise on your face makes him laugh out loud with a gentle huff. "Now I'm the one who's teasing. You may soon find that I may not be the most extroverted gentleman in society, but I still do have a bit of Wit about me."

You laugh pleasantly and continue walking. It wasn't till the pair of you round the bend you realize that many noble women and men are glancing over at the pair of you. No doubt interested in the rather sudden partnership the two of you are displaying. Wanting to distract Tamaki from the attention you turn your attention back to him. "Well my Lord, I hope the two of us may learn lots about the other. Mirio told me that you are wonderful with a horse, perhaps the two of us shall go riding together sometime. I haven't your skill but I can get along just fine."

He sighs softly looking up at you with a smile that brightens his face. "I'm sure Mirio is exaggerating but I do love horses. The acquaintance of an animal can be much more pleasant than that of a human."

"I do agree, Animal's can't hurt you the way a person can," you say solemnly as dark clouds seem to appear out of nowhere. The once sunny sky turns bitter and rains down upon the Ton.

"Let's get under cover," Tamaki says taking your hand and pulling you towards an unoccupied gazebo. The pair of your run through the rain until you reach the dry shelter. You lean up against the white railing to catch your breath.

"w-we...we made it." you pant as the rain soaks through your frock. Goosebumps appear on your now hiver skin as the Earl looks at you in concern.

"You're cold," he says removing his tunic and draping it around your shoulders.

"You really shouldn't make a habit of lending me your clothing my lord," you say smiling up at him, the raindrops weighing down your eyelashes. "I may not give them back."

His warm hand lingers on your arm as he looks into your eyes. "That won't be a problem Miss, I can always retrieve them at your residence."

That feeling in your chest returns full force.

When did he get this close to you?

Unable to speak, you both stare at each other, taking in every detail of your rain soaked forms. His indigo hair looks nearly blank as it hands in wavy strands over his flushed complexion? His features are almost too much for you to take and you cast your eyes downward... only to realize his light tunic has become nearly sheer to the rainwater revealing his surprisingly strong physique.

"Room for one more under here?" a chipper voice says. You reluctantly pull your eyes away from the Earl's form. Mirio stands on the steps completely soaked from head to toe looking like a golden retriever. "I'm glad I found you guys, that rain was so unexpected."

"It really was," Tamaki mutters with his eyes downcast.

"You guys have caused quite the commotion, everyone is talking about your supposed infatuation with each other isn't this great!"

"They believe it?" you say simultaneously in disbelief.

He is all smiles as he clasps his hands together. "Absolutely, the two of you were getting along so well it left no room for doubt."

"that's wonderful!" the Earl breathes looking at you happily. "I think we can really do this."

"That's wonderful," you say with a tight-lipped smile that doesn't quite meet your eyes.

~

The rains ceases and the three of you rejoin the festivities, but you can’t shake the fog from your brain. Your silence is excused by Mirio, who believes you have tired yourself out. But the truth is you feel a sense of unease about this ruse of yours. Maybe it's working a bit too well.

As you retreat into your bedroom you pace the floor with military precision.

Why are you feeling so strange?

You hadn't done anything immoral with the Earl, but the thought of him makes you feel as if you've come down with a feverish heat. But there is something else, through the heat, there is this feeling of contentment and safety you haven't felt in months.

You know it's selfish but you wish that you could feel this way all the time.

Thank you so much for your patience with chapter 2. let me know if you would like me to continue this series.

Tagging: @sparklytamaki @hermaeuswhora @aprilshiraeth @disaster-they @tired-raven @tokyometronetwork @kingkatsuki

[my-hero-whore]

This right here is some good shiz my friends

Among The Violets

Tamaki Amajiki x F Reader

Bridgerton! AU

This is my Piece for @bakuroo-writings Romeo, Save Me Collab which you can find HERE.

Warnings: The Patriarchy, corsets, talk of undergarments, large age gaps (mentioned), death of a loved one, insecurity. the reader is Mirio's cousin in this. Fake Dating AU!.

~The Spring season of the Ton is the busiest, most gossip-filled event of the year. All eyes are turned to securing the attention of a recently returned Earl who poses quite a challenge for the vicious mamas who want to sink their teeth into him. All the while, you hope to make it through the season in one peace. But when you see someone backed into a corner you can't help but intervene.

Word Count: 3.4k+

Part 2

Dearest Reader,

After what I may call the most dreadful winter in years, I am delighted to announce that once again I have the privilege of reporting to you the comings, goings, and scandals of the Ton.

What could make the start of the season any more exciting than the unexpected arrival of a young and handsome Earl freshly returned after many years abroad, to take his familial seat.

The newly appointed Lord Amajiki may not know it yet, but the Mamas of the ton are more viscous than anything he may have found in the wilds. But we do, don’t we…

It is also important to note that Young Lord Togata will be chaperoning his paternal cousin after the young woman was rumored to have escaped a most disadvantageous marriage to a man more than three times her senior. Let's hope she finds someone a bit younger this time around.

Always Yours

~ Lady Whistledown

“Can you believe this woman?” your cousin laughs setting the parchment on the table in front of you, flopping into a padded armchair. “You haven't come out yet and Tamaki hasn't even been in the country for a day. This Whistledown Character is already throwing the pair of you to the wolves”

“You speak of the Earl as if you know him Mirio,” you say smoothing a wrinkle on your dress, trying to act as unbothered as you can knowing some stranger knows your business. “Are you well acquainted?”

The Blue eyes of your cousin seem to sparkle in remembrance as he sends you his bright smiles. “Very well, y/n. I can’t believe I have never told you about him. We have been friends since we were children and even were roommates in university. I have never seen anyone better with a horse or a sword.”

You’re eyes widen in surprise. While your cousin does tend to be overzealous in his praising of others, he never says anyone is the best at something, his honesty and all-around kindness mean that he will no doubt be swarmed by Mama’s at the ball this evening.

“I’ll have to introduce you to him later then, I’m sure it will be a nice distraction from all those suitors you have to fend off,” he says playfully wiggling his eyebrows at you before politely leaving to head to meet a friend downtown.

"I can only hope that isn't the case," you murmur once the door shuts. With a sigh, you flop down on the armchair in a very unladylike manner, feeling excitement for the event tomorrow night.

Ever since your father passed away you have been dreading coming out into London society, men seem to only want your purity or your dowry. Your mother who didn't want to go with you to any sort of event gave you an ultimatum, Marriage to the first bachelor who comes to call or have you sent to a nunnery. Neither option seemed to be a fair decision for you, but she envied that you were the sole benefactor to your father's estate so much that she wanted to be rid of you entirely.

True to her word you were almost forced into a marriage with a gentleman more than thrice your age. Lord Paget was known for his cruelty to his wives, who didn't live long enough to sire him an heir. When he came to call your mother immediately began discussing an engagement leaving you terrified of what is to become of your future.

When news of this reached your cousin Mirio, he immediately offered to take you in. You were overjoyed. You packed your belongings and left within hours before your mother could cause any more problems.

You love your cousin, and with his parents currently abroad, he is the sole person you trust to be your chaperone at events. He wants you to do what many are unable to do, Marry for love and not because of your hefty dowry. Your goals are much simpler, you only hope that you don't embarrass yourself, for both your sakes.

_______________________________________________

Sitting at your vanity, you wince as your hair is tugged into an intricate updo by one of your cousin's maids. Your grip on the wooden surface is so strong you don't know what will give first, your grip or the furniture. Benign poked and prodded isn't something you are particularly fond of but if you are to bring honor to your Cousin then it is a worthy sacrifice.

At least that is what you thought before they brought out an unfamiliar-looking corset, its boning looks more like the armor as you shudder, wondering if they really expect you to wear this under your gown. The air is stolen from your lungs as the laces are pulled making you feel more like a puppet on strings.

“Where did this thing come from,” you wheeze out as the maids stand back and admire their handiwork.

“Paris,” one of them gushes as the rest of your layers are slipped on. The black spots in your vision seem to fade as you look in the mirror at your now fully dressed appearance. The long silk gloves and your simply elegant skirt make you look absolutely regal in the classic old money fashion that those in the Ton places above all else. With a tight-lipped smile, you being to make your descent down the staircase clutching the railing so you don't meet an untimely end before the ball even begins.

You see Mirio looking like the gentleman he is waiting to escort you. When his blue eyes find your own, he sends you a bright smile that makes you question whether or not you should squint. “You look beautiful,” he says extending an arm, “I think you would rival any incomparable .”

I can hardly breathe Mirio, I hope it's worth it,” you say as the carriage heads off into the night towards the event. Your cousin laughs and turns towards you.

“If you’d like, I can wear one of those corsets to your wedding to even the score a bit, I think it would make me look rather dashing,” he says giving you a pose.

“Whatever comes first dear cousin, my wedding or my funeral.” you laugh as you hear the galloping of hooves slow to a stop. Signaling the pair of you have arrived at the ball.

The large staircase and stained glass windows intimidate you to the core as your cousin escorts you looking quite unbothered, but of course, when someone shines as brightly as the sun it takes more than architecture and decor to make them falter.

“Head up, y/n. Let's show the world what they have been missing.” Mirio says giving you a reassuring pat on your forearm at attendants open the large double doors that lead into the ballroom.

The lights of the chandelier and the playing of the orchestra hit you as you make your way through the room dodging servants holding trays of fizzy lemonade. Sawn-necked girls sway gracefully with men whose sideburns are so large they look as if they are about to take flight.

Thankfully your presents seem to deter mamas away from your cousin long enough for you to make the rounds and get a few names on your dance card. As you dance with gentleman after gentleman you can’t help but feel discouraged. It’s naïve to believe that you will ever feel butterflies in your stomach, but the part of you that liked to hide out in your father's library reading romance novel after romance novel still has a hold on your heart.

With a sigh, you move to sit down on a bench trying to ignore the pain in your feet. A small group of girls, all adorned with what must be their family's jewels Are looking around the room, speaking in a hushed whisper.

“ The Earl should be here by now!“ The tall one in a light blue dress says, her dark eyes searching the crowd with the intensity of a hawk.

“Whistledown said so herself,” another one says taking the folded article out from her sleeve. “ if I leave here tonight without so much as talking to him, my mother would kill me.“

“Is that him over there?” The third asks to point towards the entrance. A young man with indigo hair and a gray suit coat walks into the room. The three girls lock their eyes and hurry to find their Mamas so that they can be the first to make an introduction to the young earl.

You track his movements across the room, his quick steps and downcast eyes make you come to the realization that he would rather be anywhere else in the world than at this ball, and he’s only just arrived.

Although you feel sorry for this stranger, it does not stop you from sitting back and enjoying the show that is about to happen before your very eyes.

One by one mother's come pulling their daughters closer to the Earl hoping to sink their teeth in the young flesh of wealth.

They talk and talk of accomplishments never realizing that Tamaki hasn’t even uttered a word. Backed into a corner, he stands tight-lipped, his once downcast eyes show displayed pupils as they dart around the room. It isn’t until you spot the oh-so-subtle tremble of his lips you understand what he is feeling, Fear.

You know that fear, you know the anxiety that comes with the positions you are in. Your heart pulls you in his direction making you want to do something. Not because it's the right thing to do, but because it's what you would've wanted all those months ago when you were sitting across the drawing-room watching the man your mother was hell-bent on marrying you off to.

Your feet carry you across the floor as you gently maneuver your way throughout the pack of wolves till you reach him.

You do realize just how crewed he is when you take a closer look at him. He really is handsome, his indigo eyes remind you of the last light in a sunset, even while looking for an escape his form still appears to be lean and strong.

“Amajiki,” you say politely as his darting eyes land on you, “I have come to fetch you on behalf of my cousin, the young Lord Togata. You send him a knowing look as he nods following you to save him from the distress he was in.

A particularly fierce-looking Mama steps in front of you, arms crossed. “I believe the Earl is currently occupied,” she practically sneers, hoping to make you falter in your rescue attempt with social policy.

Unperturbed by this statement you glance sweetly at the woman, “forgive my intrusion of course, but to my understanding, this is an urgent manner that simply cannot wait another moment.” It’s a lie, but no one else seems to challenge your actions as you swiftly lead the lord out to the open hallway.

“A-are your-really Mirio’s cousin?” he asks quietly, a slight stutter in his words.

“Yes, but I did lie about him needing you urgently,” you admit glancing around making sure that non of the passers-by hear your conversation. “I felt you really needed to get out of there, That Whistledown really put a target on your back.”

“Who is this Whistledown?” he questions. Having never heard of the writer before.

“No one knows, but she writes a society paper dedicated to airing the dirty laundry of the Ton. Your arrival was plastered all over the latest issue,” you explain as he nods along in a calmer manner than before.

“I’d rather be chased by a pack of wolves than face those women again,” he sighs leaning up against the wall. “I hate these things, I just wanna go home.”

“I second that you say grabbing two glasses of sparkling lemonade off of the tray of a passing servant. You hand it to him and he gives you a soft smile, if you thought he was handsome before you really need to find a better word for how he looks when he smiles.

“Thank you for earlier Miss…” he starts cutting himself off when he realizes that he is at a disadvantage of knowing your name.

“If you’d like you can call me y/n. After all, we share a mutual person of importance.” you tease feeling bolder than normal.

“Where is Mirio?” he hums. “Dazzling the masses with a corny joke and an easy smile I presume” His statement causes you to let out a most unladylike snort. You hurry to cover your mouth and pretend it didn't happen.

“I’ll fetch him,” you say quickly turning and making a quick exit before you embarrass yourself further in front of the Earl ignoring the craning heads of those around you.

You find your golden cousin in the center of the largest circle of partygoers as he makes an absolutely terrible joke about Pirates.

Amongst the laughter of obviously drunk gentleman, you are able to get his attention.

“Your friend is here,” you say gesturing to the hallway from which you came.

“Already made a run for it?” he asks with a knowing smile. You nod your head as he excuses himself taking you along with him.

“Have you met him yet?” he asks quickening his pace to one you struggle to keep up with.

“Briefly, please slow down, these shoes aren't made for escape.” you pant as the little air in your lungs becomes scarcer.

“My apologies, I’m just excited. He truly is my best friend after all,” he says slowing his pace down for you.

“What does that make me?” you ask teasingly still aware of the uncomfortableness that occurs with each breath.

“You of course, are my witty cousin, who gets her humor and good looks from my side of the family.” he beams, if Mirios sunshine persona wasn't drawing glances from around you would have rolled your eyes.

Finally, you make it to the nearly empty hallway Tamaki has been hiding away in. When he sees Mirio approaching his face lights up in a way you never pictured it to after the look of discomfort that has made a home on his handsome face.

You stand back so they can reunite, Mirio giving the man a bone-crushing hug as he talks excitedly about how great it is to see his friend again. Sliding down onto one of the large benches you feel the air come back to you all at once. You are comfortable again.

Perhaps too comfortable, you move your hand to the back of your gown and feel it. Your corset has ripped. Your eyes shoot open in alarm as you pray no one has noticed. Getting up you make your way over to your cousin and the earl.

As you approach Mirio turns to you and steps off to the side to include you in their conversation. “Y/n, I'm glad you decided to join us instead of sitting alone by yourself,” he says as Tamaki gives you a little smile.

“Mirio…” you start as your arms wrap tighter around yourself. “We need to leave, now.”

“Has something happened?” he asks as Tamaki stands up straighter.

“The damn thing ripped,” you say gesturing slightly to your now not so snug corset.

“Then we leave at once, I can call for a carriage,” he says a bit louder than he should. You wince and wish you could shrink into the wall.

“Here,” Tamaki says softly, gently draping his coat around your shoulders. “This may make you feel more comfortable, My carriage is at the gates the three of us could take it So you make it home without trouble.“

you nod as the three of you walk around the ballroom towards the exit making sure to draw as little attention to yourselves as possible.

His footman recognized him almost instantly and his carriage is brought up. As he extends a hand to help you in he realizes that there is something unusual in your connection, it’s warm but there’s something else. Even fit through your gloves you can feel the sort of electricity that makes the hair on the back of your neck tingle.

“You’re very good in a crisis Lord Amajiki.” You say softly once seated on the plush seats.

His face turns red as a tomato at your compliment.

“T-thank you, but y-you helped me first.” he reminds you as you think back to your little rescue earlier this evening.

“We are only good in the Crisis of others, if we were good in our own then it wouldn't be a real Crisis.” you laugh taking a peek out the window to see Mirio chatting with a group of his admirers who must have seen him leaving after the two of you.

“I don’t think we will be going anywhere for a while, Mirio always attracts a crowd.” Tamaki groans leaning back against his seat.

You hum and glance over at the crowd that has only gotten bigger. “Like moths to a flame,” you say, “People can't get enough of the light.”

“For as long as I’ve known him, he has always been like the Sun.” he sighs “I’m thankful he is my friend but sometimes I’m worried I drag him down.”

“I understand the feeling,” you say meeting his indigo orbs. “Ever since he agreed to become my chaperone, I have been plagued with the idea of doing something to embarrass him. I want to make it through this season without any trouble but those girls and their mamas are like a pack of wolves when trying to find a match. I realize that maybe being a spinster won't be the worst thing in the world if it means I get to live long enough to enjoy old age.”

“Do you mean that?” he asks suddenly staring at you with an intensity you haven't yet seen on his face.

“I believe so, Everyone wants to play a game and compete with each other. I’d rather hide somewhere until the ambitious girls get married off. But the only way I can really get out of participating would be to have a suitor.” you rest your head against the wall with a huff.

Tamaki is quiet for a moment as he begins to think about your similar situations. Maybe there is a way for the both of you to get what you want.

“Then maybe we could work together,” he says after a while. “If we pretend to be interested in each other then people will leave me alone and you can wait in comfort for the dust to clear.”

Your eyes widen is shock as you try to stand only to hit your head on the roof of the carriage. “Are you insane?” you ask rubbing the small bump on your temple. Who would believe us, we are strangers?”

“Not strangers anymore,” he says shyly looking down at the floor. “Please, trust me. When you find someone else we can end this.” Between his pleading eyes, handsome face, and your possible concussion you can’t find a reason to reject his proposal.

“I accept, on one condition.” you say holding out a hand, “You have to be the one to tell Mirio.”

His face pales but a look of determination sets on his features as he goes to shake your hand. “It’s a deal, Miss Y/n.”

With the shake of your hand, you strike a bargain that will change both your lives as you know it.

[my-hero-whore]

Hi yes I will be talking about this for months thank you

Tamaki Amajiki x F Reader

Bridgerton! AU part 2

PART 1 HERE

Warnings: The Patriarchy, mention of past trauma, insecurity. Fake Dating AU!.

~You and Lord Amajiki have struck a deal to occupy each other's time for the remainder of the season.

Word Count: 4k

Dearest Gentle Reader, 

If life truly is a stage as one bard suggests, we all have our assigned roles. Some members of the Ton such as I do our best to report while others act on the knowledge they have obtained. Or at least they try to…

After the events of last night's ball, many young ladies and their Mamas are wondering the same thing about the newly returned Lord Amajiki. “Has his extensive time abroad washed away his ability to speak?” For he hadn't uttered a word over the course of the evening till being rescued by the likes of Lord Togata or the very least, his fair cousin Miss Y/n. 

The young heroine charged straight into a crowd of blood-hungry Mama’s and was able to save the silent Earl from an unpleasant evening. But the pair's acquaintance was not short-lived. After a rather hasty exit from the three, The members of Lord Toagta’s party were seen stepping into the Earl's carriage.

Could this mean Miss Y/n has stolen the season's most eligible bachelor without so much as a dance? What other talents is this young lady in possession of?

You gulp as you read the last line on this morning's society paper. You knew that news travels fast in the Ton but this is getting a bit ridiculous. The ball was only last night, how could these accounts be published so quickly?

“Miss, are you feeling alright?” a maid asks softly freeing you from your thoughts. “You look rather pale”

Placing the parchment on the table your lips upturn into a kind smile. “Yes Daisy, I’m alright. I must still be a bit tired from the excitement of last night.”

Your response seems to satisfy her as she nods “I understand Miss, I’ll fetch you some tea to help you wake up a bit.”

Once you are once again alone in the sunroom to reread Lady Whistledown’s recap your head is spinning but the only thing you are able to make out on the page is ‘’Lord Amajiki’.

Did the conversation between the two of you really happen or has the oxygen deprivation from your now irreparable corset given you brain damage?

Daisy comes back into the room carrying a silver tray with your tea and a few pastries on it.

“Daisy, do you know where my cousin is this morning? He hasn't yet come down to entertain us with his account of the evening?”

“He left early this morning to go to the stables with Lord Amajiki,” she says placing a floral teacup in front of you You can see your reflection in the reflection of the liquid, it becomes clouded over as you pour a generous amount of cream into the steaming mixture.

You gently raise the cup to your lips and take a sip “I see, did he say when he would return?”

“I believe he said a few hours Miss, but as you know, the young Lord Togata is... Well…”

“Unpredictable?” you offer as she nods. “Will you join me?”

She looks around before placing her hand on the chair across from you, “I don't mean to intrude,”

“And you wouldn't be intruding, Besides, it's a bit lonely around when Mirio isn't here." Your words persuade her and she sits down across from you gently.

Daisy smiles and pours herself a cup of tea, "I suppose I have a few minutes she says quietly. "I do have to get the house ready for dinner this evening."

"I didn't realize we were having company tonight," you murmur taking another sip of your tea.

Daisy's eyes widen as she shifts in her seat. "You mean you don't know?"

"Know what?

"The Earl is coming tonight."

You nearly choke on your drink, "He's coming tonight? When did you find out about this?"

With lightning-fast reflexes, Daisy hands you a handkerchief while you collect your bearings. Once you recover you excuse yourself to walk about the gardens. Your head is lost in thought as questions pace through your still tired brain.

Does Tamaki still intend to help you out?

Does Mirio know about your arrangement?

What if the pair of them are pulling some kind of unusually cruel joke on you?

You feel as if you are floating through the day completely consumed in the cloud of your woe. It isn't till the last hairpin has scraped your scalp that you realize that your anxiously anticipated guest has arrived and you are expected to be downstairs to greet him as a member of the household.

Walking through the hallways you hear the sound of your cousin's animated storytelling from the Library

Poking your head around the corner you see the two of them clutching their glasses of amber-colored liquid as they seem to be catching up after a long time apart. Tamaki may not be the one leading the conversation, but the Earl looks at peace.

A small happy smile takes over his features as he nods along to Mirio’s stories. Suddenly his eyes shift and see your form in the doorway. His smile falters to a quick look of nervousness.

Upon noticing the Earl’s attention focused elsewhere your cousin notices you in the doorway. “Y/n, I'm glad you are able to join us. You remember Tamaki, don't you?” the blond says with a happy smile.

“How could I forget?” you answer politely turning to face the darker-haired man and giving him a curtsey “Thank you again for helping us out last night my Lord,”

“I-it was no problem Miss.” he stammers out quickly before turning his attention to the silver cufflinks on the sleeve of his indigo waistcoat.

With a soft clasp of his hands, Mirio gets your attention. “Well, since we are all here how about we head down for dinner."

With a nod, you follow the gentlemen out of the library and down the hall in awkward silence hoping that a meal would somehow manage to fill the void in conversation.

~

It does not.

Even Mirio's chatter falls victim to the gentle scraping and clanging of silver on porcelain. Between small bites, your eyes keep darting to the Earl who won't so much as look at you.

Perhaps he is no longer interested in playing a role in the farce he cooked up in the carriage last night. You don't blame him, maybe the prospect of attention of dozens of ladies is beginning to appeal to the young man after all.

While unsure of his intentions you are still determined to make it through your first season in the Ton in one piece. Skipping the festivities is out of the question, but if you focus on enjoying yourself then perhaps you can avoid the stress and heartache that looking for a suitor would bring.

You don't know if you are ready to go through all that again…

Shaking your head clear of the dark clouds infringing on the outskirts of your psyche you try to divert your attention to the meal on your plate. Your stomach is in knots but you find a bit of solace in moving its contents around to make it look as if you’ve eaten more than you had. Every once in a while you glace up from the porcelain at the Earl.

His knuckles are white around his fork and he flinches when your eyes land on him. He is quietly ignoring you and you feel a pang of hurt in your chest. What has happened between your agreement from last night to now that makes him act so coldly towards you. The silence is unbearable, you want so badly to excuse yourself and retreat into the safety of your room away from this awkwardness.

Just as you are about to do so the door a footman rushes in quietly and says something to Mirio in a hushed tone. He gives the two of you a smile and stands from his chair. "I'll be back shortly, there is a matter I must attend to."

He turns and walks out with the footman leaving you alone with Lord Amajiki. Once the coast is clear he sighs heavily and your brow twitches in annoyance.

"My Lord, you have scarcely said a word to me all night." you say suddenly "If you have no intention of following through with what we discussed last night then please let me know."

At your words a look of panic flashes across his face, "No!" he exclaims nearly jumping out of his seat causing you to flinch at the movement gripping the armrest of the chair defensively. "My apologies. I-i just can't get our conversation last night out of my head, I could scarcely sleep." for the first time this evening, you are able to get a closer look at his handsome face. The weariness of his features is apparent, he really does look like he had a restless night

You shift in your chair in shame, you had only been thinking of yourself, but this arrangement would impact the Earl as well. "I'm sorry, I was selfish. Causing you any harm was not my intention," you pause to take a breath noting the heat blossoming underneath your skin. "It was a foolish idea, I hope that the two of us may become friends."

"Miss y/n, please believe me. I still want to go through with the arrangement." he says comfortingly" I have been so worried that you may have changed your mind with this farce I didn't wish to make you uncomfortable."

The relief that courses throughout your body is palpable. You nod slowly at him, "This is what you truly want?"

"I do, and you."

"Very much so," you say quietly. "However, for this to work we need Mirio's support."

"My support for what?" a cheerful voice says in your ear. Turning your head you see Mirio's head on your shoulder and a mischievous smile plays on his lips.

You glance at Tamaki and his pale face and he nods at you before clearing his throat. “Mirio, the two of us have something we’d like to tell you.”

"Oh? is that so?" he moves around the table and back to his chair. "you have my full attention."

"Well..." Tamaki starts looking at you for a bit of support. You nod quietly as he continues. "Y/n and I were talking last night and we realized that we are in a similar predicament. As outsiders, we feel the Ton is ready to eat us alive. It seemed reasonable to suggest that we could help each other out and feign interest in each other until the dust has settled a bit."

"You would pretend to court?" your cousin asks with a blank look.

"Yes, only for the season," you say suddenly. "Mirio, what you have done for me this past month has been so generous. And I do intend to marry someday. But not this season, I want to enjoy all the festivities the season brings without having to be focused on fighting a dozen other Ladies and their Mamas for the attention of a gentleman." His features soften as he takes in what you are saying.

"I see. Y/n, I think of you as my little sister and as long as you are under my care you will never have to be forced into being with someone you do not wish to be with. But Tamaki, why is it that you want to do this?"

Tamaki clears his throat again. "After coming into this title and returning to the Ton I see just how bloodthirsty people get at the prospect of marrying someone for status." he looks at Mirio with a knowing look and fidgets his hands. "I-i have never liked being the center of attention, I need to do my duties and be active in society. But if I have to spend my evenings surrounded by vicious and pushy Mothers trying to shove their daughters in my face, I won't be able to bring myself to do so."

"If we can Convince the Ton that we are both interested in each other, we can avoid both these problems until we are ready to seriously look for a partner," you say confidently. "But Mirio, I want to know that you'll be on our side, we want nothing more than to blindside you."

Mirio places his hand on his chin and begins to think about what the two of you just said. This silence is full of contemplation and fear. you and Tamaki look at eachother then back to Mirio who has an unexpectedly serious look on his face.

"This plan is very...underhanded." he says looking you in the eyes. The corners of his lips turn into a grin "I like it."

You sigh in relief and go to hug your cousin. "Thank you Mirio, you keep saving me I don't know what I would do without you."

"You have to promise me something y/n," he says softly. "Don't let this get in the way of you being happy."

"I promise," you say squeezing him tightly.

With the weight of your arrangement off your shoulder, the rest of the evening goes on smoothly while Mirio helps the two of you prepare your strategy for the upcoming social events in the plush chairs of the study.

"Balls are one thing," Mirio says "but if you really want to make an impression you should go to the pointless little things together. Races, picnics, the works. Not only are you able to make more of an impression in the Ton, but you’ll also still be able to have fun.”

"I see," Tamaki says "the more attached we seem the fewer people will try to intervene." The little smile on his face at the prospect of peace makes your chest feel a bit funny but you ignore it.

"There is a picnic tomorrow down by the lake," Mirio instructs. "We should all go, after all, I am to play the part of your chaperone."

A little giggle slips past your lips "oh yes because the Ton would think it improper for a young woman to be left alone with a man in public." Tamaki's cheeks flush a bright red at your comment from across the room.

"You tease poor Tamaki, y/n." your cousin replies with a laugh. By the time the fireplace dies down the three of you have crafted a few plans for the upcoming social events you must attend.

After the earl takes his leave you prepare to head up to bed but notice Mirio stepping into his study. "It's a bit late to be working Mirio, can't you wait till tomorrow?"

He gives you a little smile, "Look at you always looking out for others, don't worry about me. I just have one little thing to look at then I'll retire myself."

He retreats behind the closed door leaving you alone in the hallway. The fatigue from the day catches up to you as you slip into your nightdress and lay down on your plush mattress and fall into a dreamless sleep.

~

The sunlight peers through your window as your eyes flutter open. The change between yesterday and this morning is monumental, there are no pangs of hopelessness and anxiety rattling through your chest since the Earl has confirmed his willingness to be involved in your farce. Today you will be able to go out into society on the arm of a bachelor.

The idea of not having to scamper about trying to stay out of the way of the marriage-minded wolves is peaceful now that others believe you have secured the attention of Lord Amajiki. You change into a simple light-colored frock that would be perfect for the picnic down by the waterfront. You imagine yourself soaking up the sun and sipping on lemonade and playing backgammon without a care in the world.

To say you are excited is an understatement. By the time the carriage arrives, you are practically springing down the steps like a Gazelle skipping a few at a time. Mirio is waiting for you just outside with a happy smile on his face

"Good Morning, y/n. You look to be in good spirits," he says extending a hand to help you into the carriage. He walks around to the footman wishes him a good morning and climbs inside as it beings to drive down the road.

"Good morning, is Tama~ Lord Amajiki meeting us at the waterfront?" you ask tilting your head in curiosity.

"Yes, he will meet us and then stay with us for the remainder of the day, I suggest the two of you take a stroll around the lakefront just to catch the eye of the Ton so you can cement your mutual attachment."

"A supposed attachment," you correct as your cousin smirks at you.

"yes, but the two of you may very well end up becoming attached to each other for real," he teases.

Your cheeks burn as you peek through the thick curtains of the carriage at the glistening water of the lake. "I doubt it. I'm sure that once the season ends everything will go back to normal. The Earl will have his peace and so shall I." Mirio looks at you for a moment quietly, the smile on his face drops in favor of a look of concern. The carriage comes to a stop and you stand abruptly. "If you'll excuse me," you say pushing open the door and walking out into the sunlight leaving him in the seat.

Looking around you see the familiar dark carriage belonging to the Earl Through the greenery. He steps out in a light-colored tunic and jacket. His eyes find your own and once Mario comes into view, he steps over quickly bowing to the both of you.  Which you return graciously.

“Good morning Lord Togata, Miss Y/n.” He says softly giving you a soft smile that you return.

Looking around to see if anyone is in earshot you are satisfied that no one will hear what you have to say. “Are you ready to play your part Lord Amajiki?” 

“ Just as one Bard suggests.” He answers holding out his right arm for you to take. You gently place your gloved hand under his arm and crawl your hand over the back of it just as all other ladies do in society when being escorted. Mirio follows behind you as a chaperone managing to find an acquaintance to chat with along the way.

Looking up at him through the wisps of your stray hairs you laugh, “ so you have looked into Lady Whistledown, I didn't take you for a reader of Gossip sheets.”

He looks a bit embarrassed as his eyes find the ground and his cheeks turn pink. “ I felt it was necessary to know what was being said about us,” he admits

"I'm only teasing," you say comfortingly "I'm afraid you'll find my cousin and I share the same sense of humor."

His eyes widen in shock as he turns to you. "Is it too late for me to back out of this arrangement?" The look of surprise on your face makes him laugh out loud with a gentle huff. "Now I'm the one who's teasing. You may soon find that I may not be the most extroverted gentleman in society, but I still do have a bit of Wit about me."

You laugh pleasantly and continue walking. It wasn't till the pair of you round the bend you realize that many noble women and men are glancing over at the pair of you. No doubt interested in the rather sudden partnership the two of you are displaying. Wanting to distract Tamaki from the attention you turn your attention back to him. "Well my Lord, I hope the two of us may learn lots about the other. Mirio told me that you are wonderful with a horse, perhaps the two of us shall go riding together sometime. I haven't your skill but I can get along just fine."

He sighs softly looking up at you with a smile that brightens his face. "I'm sure Mirio is exaggerating but I do love horses. The acquaintance of an animal can be much more pleasant than that of a human."

"I do agree, Animal's can't hurt you the way a person can," you say solemnly as dark clouds seem to appear out of nowhere. The once sunny sky turns bitter and rains down upon the Ton.

"Let's get under cover," Tamaki says taking your hand and pulling you towards an unoccupied gazebo. The pair of your run through the rain until you reach the dry shelter. You lean up against the white railing to catch your breath.

"w-we...we made it." you pant as the rain soaks through your frock. Goosebumps appear on your now hiver skin as the Earl looks at you in concern.

"You're cold," he says removing his tunic and draping it around your shoulders.

"You really shouldn't make a habit of lending me your clothing my lord," you say smiling up at him, the raindrops weighing down your eyelashes. "I may not give them back."

His warm hand lingers on your arm as he looks into your eyes. "That won't be a problem Miss, I can always retrieve them at your residence."

That feeling in your chest returns full force.

When did he get this close to you?

Unable to speak, you both stare at each other, taking in every detail of your rain soaked forms. His indigo hair looks nearly blank as it hands in wavy strands over his flushed complexion? His features are almost too much for you to take and you cast your eyes downward... only to realize his light tunic has become nearly sheer to the rainwater revealing his surprisingly strong physique.

"Room for one more under here?" a chipper voice says. You reluctantly pull your eyes away from the Earl's form. Mirio stands on the steps completely soaked from head to toe looking like a golden retriever. "I'm glad I found you guys, that rain was so unexpected."

"It really was," Tamaki mutters with his eyes downcast.

"You guys have caused quite the commotion, everyone is talking about your supposed infatuation with each other isn't this great!"

"They believe it?" you say simultaneously in disbelief.

He is all smiles as he clasps his hands together. "Absolutely, the two of you were getting along so well it left no room for doubt."

"that's wonderful!" the Earl breathes looking at you happily. "I think we can really do this."

"That's wonderful," you say with a tight-lipped smile that doesn't quite meet your eyes.

~

The rains ceases and the three of you rejoin the festivities, but you can’t shake the fog from your brain. Your silence is excused by Mirio, who believes you have tired yourself out. But the truth is you feel a sense of unease about this ruse of yours. Maybe it's working a bit too well.

As you retreat into your bedroom you pace the floor with military precision.

Why are you feeling so strange?

You hadn't done anything immoral with the Earl, but the thought of him makes you feel as if you've come down with a feverish heat. But there is something else, through the heat, there is this feeling of contentment and safety you haven't felt in months.

You know it's selfish but you wish that you could feel this way all the time.

Thank you so much for your patience with chapter 2. let me know if you would like me to continue this series.

Tagging: @sparklytamaki @hermaeuswhora @aprilshiraeth @disaster-they @tired-raven @tokyometronetwork @kingkatsuki