#we could never be truly friends {francesco pazzi}

[all-that-is-gold-is-now-gone]

Simple Things {Open}

Main Verse

Francesco woke early in the morning, as he often did. He woke earlier than everyone else, the Pazzi household was quiet.

The world was quiet.

And Francesco relished in it. He dressed quietly and without fuss, before grabbing his cloak and heading to the door of his room. He made it out of the Pazzi household undetected and onto the quiet streets. This was Francesco's favorite time of day. Early in the morning when most of Florence was still asleep he had nothing to do but wander. And that is what he did.

The young Pazzi stepped off into the quiet streets, a few people moving about here and there, and he simply wandered. Exploring the city he was born in, going down every alley, and around every turn. Perhaps hoping to lose himself and disappear.

[ivory-forged-steel]

Historical Fiction character tag drop 🎉

[thesongofthegreens]

Heyy!! Who's your fav couple in medici? I loved giuliano and simonetta's story it's heartbreaking, it was not lust but true and pure love

I also liked Bianca and guglielmo but their story was kinda incomplete. In s3 we only see bianca but we don't know anything about him. I had a feeling he died. What did you feel? ( ik he outlived bianca in real life but the show is pretty messy with timeliness since bianca died before lorenzo but in the series its the opposite)

I just saw this but I would LOVE to answer. so i think i have to say either clarenzo (clarice and lorenzo) or francesco and novella! i know francesco and novella's relationship soured after a year or two, but i loved how sweet he always was with her, until he suspected her of an affair, that is. he always let himself show her affection, even when they were in front of the public, when it was such a rare side of him.

i always liked giuliano and simonetta, and how they fell in love, but i didn't like that i could see tragedy coming from a mile away. i also didn't know about giuliano's death until watching the show, but i already knew someone would die and then it ended up being both of them, which BROKE my heart.

bianca and guglielmo was never my favorite couple, but i liked that he sided with the medici's for her. he seemed to truly care about her and became more of a medici than a pazzi, but him burning the note... i wanted him dead, though i know he didn't die immediately. i think it's because the medici's were always the ones handing him things and making sure he always had what he needed and always supporting him after jacopo turned a blind eye to him. his betrayal, though small, always made me want to fight him. i also get the feeling he lived well in his exile, even though he was never really seen again, just so that the medici's could say that they were merciful rather than tyrants, despite the fact that lorenzo lowkey turned to being one in the end.

saying that i hate guglielmo also brings in the complication of me saying francesco being my favorite, as he betrayed the only ones who loved him, but we would be fools to think lorenzo wasn't also trying to use him in his own little ways. lorenzo cared for francesco, but lorenzo did keep asking francesco to lowkey betray the pazzi family/let things fall into ruin for them, all to help the medici's. i always felt that if lorenzo had learned from jacopo's mistakes, rather than thinking himself above them, he would have been able to keep francesco as a friend.

[markantonys]

i’m concerned that s3 doesn’t have anyone to fill the “teenage boyfriend with whom our main character went through a messy breakup, and now antagonizing each other in the signoria is the only outlet for the sexual tension” role

[theoldshadow]

francesco pazzi - medici : the magnificent 

‘you are a medici. i am a pazzi. we could never be truly friends.’ for @inprometheanfire​

[christophernolan]

We were friends, Francesco. You are a Medici. I am a Pazzi. We could never be truly friends.

[maaaddiexo]

Medici: The Magnificent

MAINLIST

FRANCESCO DE’ PAZZI - WE COULD NEVER TRULY BE FRIENDS

Series

A Touch in the Dark — I, II, III

[40sbarnes]

Medici: Spymasters of Florence

Chapter 14: Fortune Favours The Bold

its not the longest chapter but goddamn its soft <3 i hope you enjoy this its basically just fluff lolll 

tag list: @brynthebulldozer​ @mythicalamphitrite​ @nana035 @valravnsraven @hannahhistorian92 @not-thatweird (it won’t tag idkwhy sorry!) @isaac-lahey-is-bae @angrygardendeer @unstoppable-xavi

pairings; slowburn lorenzo x reader, platonic francesco x reader

Lorenzo fell into stride beside you, his words still hanging in the night air.

"There's lot of things I haven't told you about myself, Medici," you grinned up at him, his brows raising at your words.

"Is that so?" His tongue poked the inside of his cheek as he thought of his next words. "Tell me another one."

Your face scrunched slightly in confusion, and he picked up on it immediately. "Indulge me, tell me another thing I don't know about you," he lifted his chin up, watching as the stars took their place in the sky. You looked to the side, bashful.

"Hmmm..." you trailed off, your eyes drifting to where Lorenzo was looking, letting the sound of your feet on the cobbled path fill the temporary silence, "I don't enjoy conversing with rich men," you smiled up as you watched the dots of light in the sky.

Lorenzo scoffed, his gaze falling on you once again. "You certainly didn't mind it tonight," he shot back.

"Untrue," the word was soft as it fell from your lips, "you don't have to enjoy a job to do it."

"Fair enough," he breathed out, "but surely you make an exception for bankers?" He tried, his shoulder brushing against yours as you walked together.

"Pazzi isn't one for conversation," you shook your head, continuing to tease Lorenzo, "his nephew however..."

"Oh come on, Bellondini, you can't despise my company that much," his ego was on the verge of bruising.

You just looked at him, trying not to laugh at his audacity.

"Y/n," his hand caught yours, and he stopped you both from walking, as his thumb brushed a gentle line against your fingers. Both your eyes were watching your hands. "Look, I am truly apologetic for the things I said, they were spoken with spite. I'm well aware you would never wish to be my friend, let alone my wife." His honesty took you by surprise, you glanced up at him, to find him already looking down at you.

"I thought we were saying things that we didn't already know," you attempted to joke, pushing his messy hair out of his eyes with your free hand, but his own met yours, holding it against his face.

"I'm serious. You are a remarkable woman, your lack of status does not weigh on you at all. It fills me with envy. For my status is all I am. All I could ever be," he admits, and you are frozen in place.

"You know your words hold false," your voice was quiet, you couldn't believe what he was saying.

"You, more than anyone, know them to be true," his lips smiled, but his eyes showed anything but happiness. You used your hand on his face to cup his cheek properly, forcing him to keep eye contact with you.

"You do not need me to inflate your head, Lorenzo, you know just how cunning you are. I mean, who else would have thought of such a fine way to utilise my skills?" You countered, and you watched a glint pass through his eyes.

"Anyone with half their right mind still in pla-" he began, but you cut off his pity party before he could eat his cake.

"Lorenzo. When will you realise that wealth and status aren't everything? I am remarkable because I am. As are you. Our blood doesn't define us," you were growing weary of this talk, and Lorenzo crying over being so rich.

"You think I'm remarkable?" He cocked a brow, and you let your hand fall from his face.

"Did I say that?" You acted as if deep in thought.

"I'm almost certain," Lorenzo simply nodded, his hold on your hand easing, until it faltered altogether and you both began walking again.

"I'm not," you grinned, "I certainly recall you saying something about how remarkable I am though..." you teased.

Lorenzo turned to you, a lopsided grin showing his teeth plastered across his face. He shook his head and focused back on the path in front of him.

It wasn't long before you were back in your room at the inn, out of your fancy gown and into one of Lorenzo's shirts. He hadn't mentioned it, but it was the least he could do as you had no other clothes with you, and would have to wear your own dress again tomorrow.

"Goodnight," you whispered, sliding under the covers and lying down.

"Goodnight, y/n," Lorenzo stood awkwardly beside the bed for a moment, unsure of what to do.

"Are you going to sleep?" You questioned, lifting up the blanket beside you for him to get in.

He didn't move. "You don't wish for me to sleep on the floor again?"

"As long as you stay on your side I have no qualms," you promised, turning over to face away from him.

The bed dipped slightly under his weight as he gingerly got in. You tried your very best not to laugh. Lorenzo de ‘Medici, womaniser, so awkward about sharing a bed for the night. He could be such a child at times.

"Besides," you spoke up again, "my dagger is never out of reach," you teased, lightening the tension.  Lorenzo scoffed, turning to lay on his side away from you. "Goodnight."

"Goodnight," you sighed, "again."

—-

You hadn't been travelling for long before you arrived at the same town as days before, where you'd acquired the dress. Lorenzo pulled on Callus' reigns to bring the horse to a stop.

"What ever is the matter?" You grumbled, you hadn't fully woken up and were hoping to get some distance covered today.

"Nothing. I just thought it an idea to get some food, we won't come across another town until midday and you will be starved by then," he hopped down off Callus, before putting out his hand for you.

"And you're immune to hunger?" You tilted your head, swinging your leg over the side, although not taking his hand.

Lorenzo rolled his eyes, shoving coins into your hand before grabbing it and pulling you down. "Just go get something."

"Someone woke up on the wrong side of the bed," you huffed, although your eyes were already scanning the market for what you'd buy.

"Yeah, not your side," he smirked at you, and you just laughed, shaking your head slightly before headed towards a fruit stall that had caught your eye.

"Be back here in twenty!" He called after you. You waved at him without looking, agreeing to his terms.

And you stuck by them. In twenty minutes you were back where he'd said, a bag of food secured. But neither he nor Callus were there. Worry set in. Surely he wouldn't desert you? Surely?

You bit at your nail, looking around for him, until you saw Callus tied up outside a small store, a stranger brushing him. You moved towards him, trying to check him out before confronting him.

A hand rested on the small of your back before you could reach him. And you spun to see Lorenzo smiling down at you. "Everything alright?"

"Where were you?" You ignored his question, glancing to under his arm to see he was holding two parcels.

"Doing some shopping myself," he shrugged, before he guided you both to Callus. He thanked the man and gave him some coin before he started to secure the parcels to Callus. He took the bag of food off of you and tied it around the saddle.

"What's wrong?" Lorenzo asked when you still seemed off.

"Nothing, let’s go," you decided, and so you did.

—-

After another day and a bit of travelling, you had arrived home. Lorenzo had brought you just outside of town, before helping you down off Callus. You both stood beside the horse, Lorenzo reaching into his satchel to pull out a bag of coins.

"Your payment," he stated as if it wasn't obvious.

"Thank you," you almost felt awkward taking it, before you quickly ignored that feeling.

"And, uh, a small gift. To show my gratitude. And my regret of my previous words about... well you know," he sighed, his lack of composure was unsettling, but you didn't have to focus on it as he took the parcels off the saddle and handed them to you.

"Lorenzo, you needn't have-" you looked at the gifts in your hands. One of the parcels was thick, but soft, and the other was narrow and cold.

"I did," he assured you.

"Well, thank you," you looked up at him, not realising just how close you were standing apart.

Your eyes scanned each other's, before you took a step back. "What are they?" You broke the silence.

"I'm sure you'll figure out a way to find out," he grinned. You shook your head at his stupidity before reaching up to pull him into a quick embrace. It didn't last more than five seconds but he didn't need any longer to react, wrapping his arms around you for the short hug.

"Good luck with the vote," you bid him, it was happening in a matter of days. You had discussed it all on your journey, and you both decided that Pazzi would definitely be calling on you in the upcoming days, and unless something was to happen with him, you had no more business with Lorenzo until then.

He smiled at your words, looking to Callus before back at you.  "I cannot lose with you on my side."

[jellyfitzjelly]

francesco for the character ask because i'm nothing if not predictable

hahaha but you are deliciously predictable, my dear!

Why I like them

I LOVE Francesco for the smug, soft bastard he is. His complex relationship with Lorenzo is so good. I also love the fact he’s a family man.

Why I don’t

Here it stems more from the writing than the character, but I hate how Francesco seems so easily swayed by his uncle. It felt too easy for me.

Favorite episode (scene if movie)

Episode 2! Love my tournament boi!!

Favorite season/movie

Well season 2 since he’s in it lmao.

Favorite line

“You are a Medici, I am a Pazzi. We could never truly be friends.”

Favorite outfit

The red one from the baptism scene.

OTP

Lorenzo/Francesco, of course

Brotp

Guglielmo/Francesco

Head Canon

He speaks Greek better than Lorenzo.

Unpopular opinion

I don’t have one?

A wish

That his character would have been better used in the series.

An oh-god-please-dont-ever-happen

No mention of Francesco in S3. That is my nightmare.

5 words to best describe them

Proud, loyal, lost, brave, blind.

My nickname for them

Don’t have one!

[all-that-is-gold-is-now-gone]

Like, Comment, or Reblog for a starter from

Francesco de' Pazzi

Multi’s please specify which muse (or I'll pick)

[thesongofthegreens]

FLORENCE, ITALY | IL DUOMO OF FLORENCE

Imola had been lost. More importantly, so had Francesco. He felt the latter's loss more, however surprising that might have been. Imola could be won again, despite the Pope's purchase of it, but he was not so sure that the same could be said of Francesco. What had Jacopo said for him to turn against them so quickly?

While Lorenzo could play as naive as he desired, he knew it was not only Jacopo's doing; his business dealings with the Pope and what truly been given to the Pazzi's had not entirely an innocent slight. Francesco had even questioned his motives then, but Lorenzo had never believed it would tear them apart. His own dismissal had only served to prove what lie Jacopo had fed his friend.

For the good of the Medici bank.

It echoed in his mind, when he would find a moment to rest, or when he believed he was more alone than he had ever been. With Giuliano mourning Simonetta, he had no one to bear the brunt of things. There once had been a time where his brother's absence would have nearly been missed, or even unnoticed. Not to say that he had not loved his brother, only that his own loneliness had been a shallow fountain then - it had become a sea.

With the Pope preparing an army to Imola, supposedly to set upon Florence, he knew he needed more than his family by his side. And for that, he would have to admit his sins and possibly those of his fathers before him, no matter how difficult it would be for him to do so. Republics could not be built without a cost.

As the carriage rode along the stones, there were bumps along the way, yet the carriage was never set off the track - it still persevered. I will become the carriage, if I must, he thought, though he was less sure that his path would be so easy.

He passed the many doors surrounding the cathedral, and the many people making their way to mass. There, in the many pews that were held there, they would still be separated by status, but God would see them as equals. They would dip their fingers into holy water and bless His name as equals. Such a small thing set a smile on his lips, for he wished the rest of Florence could be so.

Lorenzo dreamed for it to be so.

When he arrived, his coachmen knocked on the wood, pulling him from his daydreams and to the mouth of the cathedral. He found his brother there, waiting for him, as he exited the carriage. He spoke a few choice words to Bastiano, before encouraging his brother to believe in the good of othes, that words could bring peace before the sword.

As they turned and walked the steps, his heart grew heavy at the sight of his friend, a small smile set onto his face. In the months that had passed, Lorenzo had not seen such a sight, despite the many times he had seen the Florentine banker.

He found himself stopping, with Francesco met his gaze; there was regret there, but there was something else, something ready to take on a life of its own. Lorenzo felt it, in the very fiber of his being, that the mass service would change the tides, though he could not say whether it would be in any of their favors.

"I know our families have had their disagreements, but I hope from now on, we can bury that, start new, for all our sakes." The smile that touched his mouth was friendship, his arms held out for an embrace. It was one that had not been shared in many fortnights.

Lorenzo could not help but think of his grandmother, her wish to see their families at peace, for eternity. But it was not just her, but the shadow that had been hanging over both of them that reminded him to let the past live there, to make anew with what they could.

After a moment, he moved forward, his own arms wrapping around his friend, though he could not claim his heart remained entirely whole. For both of their sakes, he whispered, "I always meant for us to be friends, Francesco."

"We shall be again."

While Lorenzo would not admit it to his brother, to the many seeing them at the mouth of the cathedral, he had sunk right into the embrace at the promise, relief flooding through him. Whatever spat had risen from Jacopo, whatever unthinkable had been requested of the Florentine banker, Francesco had stood against him, one last time.

As they pulled away, to face one another again, Lorenzo touched the back of his neck, a smile being shared between them both - for a moment, all transgressions were forgotten.

"I am glad to hear it," he began, looking down to the ring he'd been given when he had removed his father from the Priori. He twisted it around his finger in thought, a sigh leaving him. "I don't want to simply begin another chapter of our friendship, Francesco. I would see our banks united, again." Brown eyes searched his, there was that secret in them again. "Truly united, not in word, but in deeds and parchment."

| closed roleplay with @all-that-is-gold-is-now-gone , sorry for the long starter, i wanted to set the scene! |

[40sbarnes]

Medici: Spymasters of Florence

Epilogue

ahhh!! i was so uncertain with this chapter and i still am.. i hope you enjoy it and get *some* closure, but dw i will continue one shots for this story until i say otherwise! and now that this chapter is posted i will open up requests for one shots <3

as always thank you for reading,, i see all your likes and they are more than appreciated 

pairings; lorenzo x reader (but theyre actually together now??)

taglist; @brownskinnedblessing​ (this ones for you) @brynthebulldozer​ @mythicalamphitrite​ @nana035​ @valravnsraven​ @hannahhistorian92​ @not-thatweird @isaac-lahey-is-bae​ @angrygardendeer​ @unstoppable-xavi​ @johnbolton @voidmalfoy​ 

The bandages on Lorenzo's neck called for your gaze, although already stained through with blood. Both of your wounds had been treated soon after everything had happened. It was all a blur to you now, all you could remember was continuing the act for everyone, doing your best not to flinch when questioned about your 'marriage' to Lorenzo. His family seemed confused, but presumably from their recent loss, were not overly pressing the matter, at least for the time being.

Now, it was just you and Lorenzo stood across from each other in silence. The space between you was obvious, far more than usual, and it felt heavy, as if you would have to wade through it to reach him. Your hand sat uncomfortably on your side, although it had been wrapped in ointments and bandages, it still ached with each breath, and as the adrenaline wore off, it grew worse with every minute.

An uncertain amount of time had passed since Lorenzo had insisted you two be left alone, and you had escaped to his room. He cleared his throat quietly, catching your eye, before he finally spoke. "I'm glad you're okay," a ghost of a smile flashed across his features for a moment, gone the next.

"You too," you blinked back any emotion that threatened to show. You honestly were glad to see him well, despite everything. Silence fell over the space again, as all the lies and things unsaid had made everything so foggy and everything you felt you once knew had become so uncertain.

"He was your friend?" Lorenzo didn't need to use his name as he threw your words back at you. The words you had spoken out of anger. The words you still meant. The words you would speak again in a moment. The spite in Lorenzo's tone did not go unnoticed by you.

"Yes." You took a breath after answering, readying your explanation, but you were not given a chance to say it out loud as Lorenzo spoke again.

"After everything?!" His voice threatened to break as he raised it, his hand flying out to his side to help gesture his exasperation. 

"Lorenzo, please, just listen for a momen-" your pleading tone was unsuccessful as he denied your request by continuing his own trail of thought, taking a step closer to you.

"After everything he did? He killed my brother!" his voice cracked, a tear rolling down his cheek as he turned his head to the side, breaking the intense eye contact you were desperate to preserve. You tried your best to hold back your own tears, but Lorenzo's own upset was quickly filling the room, drowning you in it along with him.

You moved closer to him, slowly and gently lifting your finger to his cheek, wiping away the tear as it fell, along with the next one in its path.

"He killed Giuliano! Held you captive!" he continued his rant, his eyes meeting yours again, as you continued listening. His brows furrowed, before he slapped your hand away from his face. Your mouth fell agape, but you didn't move otherwise. "At least I had believed you to be..." uncertainty set into his features as he began to question himself, "Had I been a fool?" 

"I'm sorry for Giuliano." Your voice was a stark contrast to his, steady and unwavering, "I am." Your sincerity was not overshadowed by the lack of emotion. "But to insinuate it was all a lie after everything I went through?!" You ripped back your collar, the top buttons of your shirt popping open so the fabric fell to the side, leaving the bruises Jacopo had gifted you exposed.

"Y/n, I'm..." regret fell over Lorenzo as his cool fingers grazed your neck, his watery eyes apologetic. 

You leaned away from his touch as you continued your explanation. "They knew, I don't know for how long, about us. They knew about the poison... everything. They ambushed me that night, it was all a set-up. I certainly was not there by choice. I did everything I could to leave that place, to get to you. In fact, I had almost made it once, but I heard of their plan, and stayed to listen, like a fool. And was caught." You blinked rapidly as you felt tears creep into your eyes. "And you may know this to be true, because I popped my thumb out of its socket just to escape my chains!" You held up your hand, shoving it into Lorenzo's face as proof, furious that you had to.

He took hold of it, his touch gentle as he brings your hand to his lips, placing a soft kiss onto your thumb. He didn't bother surveying it, it was clear he trusted you. "I'm sorry," his breath flutters across your skin as he speaks, "does it hurt?" You take your hand out of his grasp in an attempt to not completely melt, you still had a lot to discuss. You turned away from his surprised expression and went to his desk, taking the bottle of wine sitting on it into your grasp.

His steps were soft across the wooden floor as he moved to join you, watching as you poured the drink into two cups. "I'm sorry that you're upset about Francesco," he sounded genuine, "I truly am." But not genuinely sorry for what he did. You didn't know that you could fully blame him.

You take a breath, before turning back to face him, handing him his drink. He hesitates for a moment before accepting it, and you can't hold back the chuckle that escapes your lips. "Would you like for me to drink from it first?" He shares a laugh with you at the irony, as he peers into his cup, but you reach your fingers around his, taking it from his hold, and bringing it to your lips anyways. 

"Don't you trust your wife?" A coy smile sits on your lips as you return the cup to his waiting hand, half-teasing, half-trying on the new title for size.

"Where would the fun in that be?" He smirks, but takes a sip nonetheless, invalidating his statement.

You share a genuine smile, drinking from your own cup, although it is clear you both still have much left unsaid.

Lorenzo sets his cup down on the desk, clearly preparing to clear the air. "Listen, y/n, I know you never imagined marriage for yourself, but-" 

You cut him off, "I understand Lorenzo. And I believe... I should thank you," he evidently didn't expect this response from you. "For saving me." You expand on your point. "Even if it means you are stuck with me"

A wide grin set across his cheeks. "I've been stuck with you for far before today," he teases.

"Well, officially..." you tilt your head to the side, smiling with him.

"About officialism...," he glances away for a moment, "I suppose a wedding is in order." He raises his chin as he looks back to you, leaning on the desk.

"Is that your way of proposing?" You raise your eyebrow, only meaning to tease but an air of seriousness falls over you both after your words.

"I think we are far past that," Lorenzo chuckles, "but still, you have more than deserved a proper proposal," he slides the ring off of your finger, taking your hand into his, "With the Pazzis gone the Medicis will run Florence almost unopposed, and I need you by my side now more than ever. You saved my life today as much as I saved yours. And I promise, should you agree to me, I will never treat you with anything less than the respect you deserve. You complained in Venice I never saw you as an equal," you bite back your disagreement at his choice of words, "which I admit to be true. I always saw you as far superior, it filled me with rage... and a strange sense of awe, and through everything, that fury has long since faded, although the awe remaining, now accompanied by something else, something more." Your heart was beating in your throat at his words, and at how close the two of you had moved to each other.

Your eyes flicker between each other’s, glancing to one another's lips. It is clear what you both wish, but there is a sense of uncertainty still. The last kiss of yours had been a plan, you both had imagined, to poison Francesco, who you had led to believe you cared for just as you were with Lorenzo currently. You try to read him, to see if it is truly a shared fear or it was just self-projection. 

You move towards him slowly, your noses touching as you pause before your lips meet. You gaze up towards him, to see him looking down at you, frozen, waiting for your next move. "Should I apply lip paint first?" Your lips smile against his, practically touching already.

"No," he breathes out, before you close the last bit of space, your lips finally meeting. The kiss is soft, as is his hold on your cheek as he pulls you closer. Your hands fall on his chest as all your worries and conflicts fade away for that moment. 

Eventually he pulls back, taking your hand back into his, holding the ring at the end of your finger, waiting as he realises you still had yet to answer. You nod slowly, and he slides the metal around your finger. 

"We are in need of proper rings, but for now..." he squeezes your hand with his, placing a kiss to your temple.

"I know a lovely blacksmith," you grin up at him, and he chuckles, before leaning down to connect your lips once again, as if you had done it a million times before.

Rapping on the door cuts the kiss short, both of you pulling away to rest your foreheads on one another. "Lorenzo!" The voice of a pained mother floats through the door, and he pulls away, instantly moving to answer it. 

"We have much to discuss," Lucrezia's eyes fall on her son before they flutter to where you stood behind him.

"I am aware, mother," he embraces her, "but not today." They share in a sad smile, the loss of Giuliano hanging like a weight between them.

She nods in agreement, sparing you one final glance before speaking, "Very well, then."

[40sbarnes]

Medici: Spymasters of Florence

Chapter 17: Every Rose Has Its Thorn

me??? posting early?? but 17 chapters that is insaneeee! nervous to see how you guys find this one... enjoy !!

pairing; slowburn lorenzo x reader, friends? francesco x reader

taglist: @brynthebulldozer​ @mythicalamphitrite​ @nana035​ @valravnsraven​ @hannahhistorian92​ @not-thatweird @isaac-lahey-is-bae​ @angrygardendeer​ @unstoppable-xavi​ @johnbolton @voidmalfoy​

"But you're just so irresistible, can you truly place the blame on me?" You looked up at Lorenzo through your eyelashes, the smirk on your lips making your sarcasm painstakingly obvious. You both moved in sync to the music flowing throughout the hall.

Lorenzo's tongue poked the inside of his cheek as he raised his eyebrows, looking up at the ceiling to avoid eye contact. "Perhaps not," his focus was back on you, "but a veil of professionalism every now and then wouldn't cause any harm," he teased.

You tutted at his words, "It's as if you don't know me at all," you pouted.

"I don't," he reminded you, "I've never had the pleasure of meeting you," he spoke his words a little louder, only joking with you now. If anyone was actually listening in to you two you were being more than obvious.

"Oh how I wish that were true," you leant up to whisper in his ear, before stepping away for him to spin you.

He pulled you back closer than before once you finished your twirl, stooping down to whisper back. "Now we both know that's a lie," you rolled your eyes, going to move away once again but his hold on you only grew tighter, "they're watching, I think it's time."

You just chuckled, as if he'd said something hilarious, before you got ready to change partners. Lorenzo didn't let go of your hand until the last second, and you stepped up to the next man, who was smiling at you already. You curtseyed to him, but when you looked up from your feet you saw Francesco beside the man, asking to cut in. Your partner agreed with an air of confusion about him, and your new one took your hands into his own.

"Couldn't wait your turn?" You teased, as you began to dance together, grinning at him.

"Not with you in that dress," he kept his voice low, his tone serious, smiling for a moment.

"It goes with your shirt quite nice, wouldn't you say?" You continued, glancing between the two fabrics.

Francesco let out a single breathy chuckle, before leaning in and lowering his voice. "How was your last dance partner?"

You studied him as he pulled away, his own gaze fixed on you. "Great. Although he was certainly following my lead," the insinuation of your words was clear, "and if we were to dance again I imagine I could lead him anywhere," you whispered your last sentence to him, and he nodded curtly.

"I'm sure he would be happy to dance again, soon," Francesco watched you carefully.

You nodded back. "Soon? As in a song or two?"

"Why wait?" he smiled, twirling you under his arm. Your heart sped up as you realised you had to figure a way to stop him now.

"Are you ready?" Your voice was serious, looking between his eyes to gage his reaction.

"Ready as I'll ever be," he glanced over to where Lorenzo was laughing with a new partner for a split second, before looking back down at the ground between your feet.

"You don't have to do this, you know," You told him, squeezing his hand slightly.

"That's where you're wrong. I do," he sighed. You opened your mouth to retort but he spoke again before you could. "You know how my uncle is. I don't have much of a choice." It was if a knife had been struck through your heart. He didn't have a choice. And you were going to punish him for that.

"What if you did?" You furrowed your brows, in desperate search for a different solution.

"I don't," he promised you, his voice unwavering and his grip on your hands right, "Besides, it will always come down to this. He's a Medici, I am a Pazzi," his voice was solid but his gaze was not. You decided that your plan with Lorenzo was probably still the best option for everyone involved. Lorenzo would be able to live and Francesco would be able to live with himself.

"Yes you are a Pazzi, but you are also so much more," You reached up to cup his cheek, and he melted into your touch, showing exactly how easy he was to mould to your will. You felt horrible, manipulating him exactly as he had been his whole life, but you couldn't let him kill Lorenzo. Your eyes locked and you felt him inching closer.

You were so focused on one another you didn't notice that you were supposed to have swapped partners. Both of your new ones stood waiting, but Francesco ignored them, taking your arm and beginning to lead you off of the dance floor, through the crowd and towards the hallway you had decided on. With your free hand, you slid your index finger into your pocket, retrieving some of the lip paint and smearing it over your lips to ensure it was fresh and would have its desired effect. As you did you glanced over your shoulder, looking for Lorenzo still on the dance floor, to see him already staring at you. You shared a look, so he knew to follow you after five or so minutes, to make sure you had already kissed Francesco and sealed his fate. Francesco stopped you after you walked through the doorway into the empty hall, standing just to the side of it, the wooden door now separating you from all the people.

"Francesco," your lips tickled as his name fell through them. Your hands moved to his shoulders, pulling him back towards you as your back rested against the wall. His hands fell to your waist as if they had done it a thousand times already.

"y/n," his gaze was steady on yours, "I've wanted this for so long," he tucked a stray hair behind your ear, his hand coming to rest under your chin. You felt your body seize up as he did, your head spinning.

You were so close, tingles skipped across your lips as you leaned up towards him, watching for his reaction. He didn't move, his eyes fluttering as they tried to decide which of yours to focus on. You were millimetres from his lips, when he turned his head to the side, and you froze, glancing at him to see his expression was one of shame. You ignored the ironic déjà vu. You were more focused on your own confusion, you were certain he would kiss you. You felt dizzy at the rejection, until you realised it wasn't the rejection making you feel that way at all. Everything became fuzzy, and your stomach felt as though a hot spear had been shoved through it. Your brows furrowed, blinking forcibly, trying to focus your vision again. You hunched over from the pain, leaning against Francesco, until you lost your balance completely, falling to the side. His arms caught you right before your head could come into contact with the cool tiles of the floor. You looked up to him, forcing your eyes to focus, to see him staring back at you, brows knitted together in guilt and concern. As you looked up to him in confusion, the all too familiar sensation of everything going black began to grab at you. You desperately pushed through it, willing yourself out of it, but you no longer had feeling in your limbs.

"It's okay," he whispered, and those words had never been less comforting to hear. Why wasn't he helping you? Your weak voice tried to call out for him but you couldn't produce so much as a squeak.

Your eyes watered out of frustration, hearing footsteps approaching from down the hall. You were slipping more and more away as the seconds ticked by. Had Lorenzo come? You couldn't see past Francesco to confirm your hopes, but after a sharp jab to your jaw, you couldn't see anything at all.

—-

[40sbarnes]

Medici: Spymasters of Florence

Chapter 12: Out of Luck

hope you enjoy this chapter! we are finally getting some actual lorenzo x reader content lmao

pairings: lorenzo x reader (fr), francesco c reader (friends)

tag list: @brynthebulldozer @mythicalamphitrite @nana035 @valravnsraven @hannahhistorian92 @not-thatweird @isaac-lahey-is-bae @angrygardendeer <3

“May I ask," your attention was pulled to Lorenzo by his words, "why the sudden change of heart?" His interest appeared genuine, no ulterior motive. You had halted your journey as night began to fall, the horse needing the rest more than either of you. You stood across from each other in the tavern room you were holed up in for the night. It wasn't as if you could rent two rooms without suspicion, especially with you being a woman.

"The truth?" You sighed, your fingers pulling at the strings of your cloak. Lorenzo hummed as a reply, eyes watching you intently. You didn't see a reason to lie to Lorenzo anymore, and he was the only person you could truly talk to this about anyways. "I delivered the message to Orsini today," Lorenzo's lips parted, but he didn't say anything, "for Pazzi. Orsini didn't take any notice of course. I knew you'd taken care of it." Worry flashed throughout your eyes for a second, realising Lorenzo might be upset you didn't double check with him.

"That must have been difficult," he took a step towards you, still leaving plenty of space, "but what you did was not in vain, y/n, not then, not now." He reassured you, you were surprised that was where his mind had gone.

You just nodded slightly, now holding your cloak in your arms, as if you were a child holding their favourite blanket. "So you came with me because...?" Lorenzo pried.

"Because you were right," you hated admitting it, "a break wouldn't kill me. Perhaps the opposite..." A soft grin fell onto Lorenzo's lips, "and because right now, I don't feel like being around the people I care for," you were precise with your words, not quite meaning the harsh intent they held. But you didn't wish to be around Francesco or Guglielmo as of right now. The guilt would seep right out of you and into their fingertips, ready to be dropped into their Uncle's lap.

Lorenzo chuckled slightly, looking down at the ground as he raised his eyebrows. "I see. I know the feeling."

"I didn't-" you weren't quite sure what to say, or why you cared that you might've offended him, "what of your predicament? Any more rejections from noble women?" You settled on changing the subject instead.

He laughed again, standing taller as he thought of an answer, "Not yet. But I fear my mother’s mind has settled on marriage now. It only makes sense now that I'm head of the family, but I guess I'd never truly considered it before," he shrugged, resting his hand on the end of the bed frame.

"Because of Lucrezia Donati?" You pushed, intrigued. He seemed taken aback, clearly not used to people being so brazen with him.

"I knew I could never marry Lucrezia. Honestly that might've been the beauty of it," he kicked off his shoes as he uttered the statement, acting as if it was a casual thing to say.

"I suppose I hold some fortune in that, then," you pushed your hair off your shoulder, setting your cloak down on the bed, sitting beside it. Lorenzo moved onto his over shirt once he was finished with his shoes, shooting you a glance to tell you to elaborate.

"For all your riches, and lack of mine, at least I needn't worry for my standing, or marriage, for the most part," your eyes couldn't meet Lorenzo's, so they fell to your lap. You didn't have a family to sell you into marriage, and although one day you may be forced to convince some poor man to take your hand, you were doing a good job of preventing yourself from that fate for now. You knew most women weren't as lucky, and you did well not to take your situation for granted.

"The most part?" Lorenzo questioned, his tone serious as he sat to your right on the opposite side of the bed, you lying down to stretch out your legs.

"Well, it's only a matter of time before you convince me to give you my hand in some scheme," you teased, still slightly in disbelief he'd gotten you on this trip.

Lorenzo scoffed, not enjoying your joke. "What a deluded thing to say," he shook his head. You furrowed your brows, turning your torso fully to face him.

"The reason my mother is pushing me to marry is for noble blood. Not for whatever runs through your veins," he spoke the words as if they weren't dripping with venom.

You turned away from him, "A simple jest, Lorenzo. Not everything has to be about how I am so very much beneath you," in that moment, it was pure hatred running through your veins.

"Y/n- please, we both know you'd never marry me, I was simply-" he began, you closed your eyes, as if it would shut out his horrid voice.

"You're right. I could never be so lucky," you squeezed your eyes shut tight, "all this talk of how I'm such a peasant has truly tired me out. If you would please let me sleep...goodnight Lorenzo."

Silence ensued. Your anger soon subsided, and you felt yourself drifting, sleep guiding you away from that small room.

Lorenzo's voice was the quietest you had ever heard it, but it filled the air nonetheless. "I'm sorry. It is I who is out of luck."

You didn't have the energy to respond, not that you even had a response.

—-

You woke at the crack of dawn the next morning, finding the blankets had been placed over you. You spun on your side, looking for a sign of Lorenzo. The chair across the bed was empty, as was the bed beside you. You sat up, worry setting in, until you saw his messy locks resting on the bottom of the bed. You glanced over him, he was resting against blankets, sitting on the floor. You felt bad for a fraction of a second, before you recalled the events of last night.

Carefully, you rose from the bed, doing your best not to disturb Lorenzo. You truly didn't feel like talking with him just yet. Instead, you opted to retrieve your cloak from where it had fallen on the floor, and replaced it around your shoulders. You danced across the room, reaching the door without a noise, only to slam it after you. You hoped it would wake him up, and he could get ready without you having to wait, and put up with his presence.

You skipped down the steps of the inn, making it outside to take in the colours of the sunrise. You breathed in the fresh air, before heading to the stables, going to check on Callus. Lorenzo didn't know the horse’s name, which shocked you, so you'd insisted on naming the helpful creature. You gave him a quick pat, not used to dealing with horses.

"Heading out already?" The stable girl appeared beside you.

"Yes, must make the most of the day," you acted with an air of class, the girl just grinned up at you, before climbing over the gate to the horses.

"I'll get her ready for ya," she began saddling 'her'. You had assumed it was a male, from all Lorenzo's 'faster boy’s as he pushed the horse to go faster. Now you weren't sure Callus quite fit. You stopped your trail of thought before it could completely escape you, and your eyes fell back on the girl as she worked. You were going to Venice. It would be easier to run away from there, you'd already have so much distance down. You could perhaps become like this girl? She didn't seem so miserable. Definitely much happier than you currently were. You didn't have long to consider your thoughts as a stressed Lorenzo came flying out the inn. He was notably in a different outfit than yesterday, clearly having packed for the trip, unlike you. He slowed his pace as he caught sight of you.

"Good morning," you greeted him, leaned on the fence.

"I thought you'd run off," he lowered his voice, speaking through gritted teeth.

You swallowed, feeling slightly guilty as you watched the tension in his back dissipate, relief washing over him. You hadn't done it of course, just thinking about it constantly.

"And you'd care?" You seethed, not looking his way.

Lorenzo stood back, straightening his clothes as he did, he had clearly put them on in a rush. "Clearly."

You spared him a glance, his eyes burning into your own, and you were unable to look away.

"I need you, y/n," your heart froze, his face was but inches from yours, "you're integral to the plan," you turned back to watch the stable girl, moving away from him.

"Well, I'm here," you spoke, your voice flat. Lorenzo continued his stare until Callus was ready, and you both stepped back from the gate to let it creak open. The reigns were handed to Lorenzo, and he began attaching his bags to the saddle.

"Thank you," you took the stable girls hand into yours, sliding a few coins into it before closing it over as Lorenzo paid no notice.

She bowed slightly, "You are more than welcome, Madonna," that caught Lorenzo's attention, his gaze falling onto you once again, before he straightened out the saddle, getting ready to mount.

The young girl took your hold on her hand to pull you in closer, "I wish my betrothed looked at me the way your husband does," she made sure to keep her voice low. You stifled a laugh at the irony, until your heart sank in realisation.

"Your betrothed?" She seemed far younger than yourself, nowhere near the age for marriage.

She nodded, "Well, in two years, when I am of age," the pain in her eyes didn't go unnoticed by you.

"He won't look at you the same. He will treat you with far more respect than I am given," you promised her, not wanting her to idealise whatever your relation to Lorenzo was.

"Y/n," as if on cue, Lorenzo's name fell from your lips, although not as harsh sounding as usual.

The girl shot you one last sad smile, before she returned to her work and you yours.

Facing back to Lorenzo, he assisted you onto Callus, before pulling himself up. He took the reins into his hands and you continued your journey without another word.

—-

You came to a stop once again in a town just outside Venice. All three of you were hungry, and the sun had yet to reach its peak. Lorenzo was planning on attending the banquet for Vitelli’s grandson’s birth, a celebration of the continuation of the bloodline, which wasn't until tonight. You had plenty of time.

Once you had found Callus a safe stable to rest in, you led Lorenzo to the centre of the town, where the market was bubbling.

"You wouldn't find these in Florence," you nudged Lorenzo slightly from where you stood in front of the blacksmith, half teasing as you knew his love for your city, but also in awe at the swordsmanship.

He smirked at your words, also admiring the fine blades. "I'd like to see their art," he bragged, always finding a way to one up.

"Maybe this is it," you suggested, marvelling at the different daggers.

"Come along, I'm starved," he spoke after a moment. You did as he said, as your hunger was getting the best of you also.

You soon found a seedy public house, not much different from the Florentine ones. Lorenzo bought you both meals, and you picked away at it, trying your best to ignore the rowdiness of your fellow customers.

"Is that the only gown you brought?" Lorenzo questioner, motioning to the dress you were wearing.

You nodded, swallowing the food you were chewing before replying. "I truly hadn't planned on joining you."

"It won't do for the banquet. You'll be serving drinks by the end of the night," you bit back all the horrid remarks you wished to make, about Lorenzo and his constant condescension.

"Well sorry, your highness, an arrogant man burnt my banquet gown," you huffed.

Lorenzo grinned as he held back a laugh, "I do apologise for that. But that doesn't change our current circumstance. We'll have to get you a new gown. Hopefully this town’s dressmaking holds up to their forgery."

You just nodded, feeling odd about the situation. Pazzi had loaned you a fancy gown once or twice before for similar purposes, the idea wasn't foreign to you, but it felt particularly peculiar with Lorenzo. Especially with last night’s conversation still fresh in mind.

—-

You stepped out of the fitting room, feeling incredibly vulnerable in the dress. It was half an inch too tight, making you stand up that little bit straighter to hold your poise. Your shoulders were bare, and you were oddly aware of the cool air around them. The dress was quite plain, a deep crimson colour, the sleeves falling to your wrists, where they hung wide around them. The skirt was much more constricting than you were used to, and you imagined if you were to don your usual blade on your thigh it would make for a terrible silhouette.

You stood in Lorenzo's line of sight, and he sat up taller from where he was slouched in his chair. He surveyed you for a moment, before his gaze switched to the seamstress beside you.

"Doesn't she look splendid?" The seamstress asked, pushing for her sale. You had stumbled upon her small shop after you'd eaten.

"Danger often takes shelter in beauty," he mused, sharing a grin with you, the tailor barely taking notice. "How much?"

[40sbarnes]

Medici: Spymasters of Florence

Chapter 8: Two Birds, One Stone

Part 8!! Lorenzo’s pov chapter already, I just felt like it really fit this chapter! I hope you enjoy it and that I did our mans justice, I honestly found it kinda difficult but we all love a challenge! Next chapter will be your POV again <3

Pairings; Lorenzo x reader, lil bit Francesco x reader (returning soon lol)

Tag list; @brynthebulldozer @mythicalamphitrite @nana035 @valravnsraven @hannahhistorian92

Also the idea for a lorenzo pov was all from @nana035 so ty for the suggestion and for all the support!!

Credit again to @heyrowena for the beautiful picture and all your help with his chapter!!

For the first time I'd seen, you were calm. You didn't seem to be perpetually waiting to strike, your features were more relaxed than I've ever had the fortune to witness. You didn't carry the pain and stress from yesterday, the image now carved in my brain of you shaking on my window, covered in blood. I can't fathom that you killed for me, I'm aware it wasn't exactly your choice but the thought still brings me a strange sense of pride. In all honestly, I was waiting for you to betray me, unveil a mastermind plan in which Pazzi knew about us all along. I was planning my counters, while still trying to use your aid to the best of my ability, but clearly I was over paranoid. The part of me with lesser sense had an inkling that you were loyal to me, that I was more agreeable for you than Pazzi, but that could also be put down to money. On the subject, I wonder how much you'll try squeeze me for the assassination. I suppose I'll have to pay it. You've proven by now that you're worth it.

My eyes trailed from you deep in your slumber to my own lap. The parchment you took a life for now resting on my knee. It wasn't precisely the deal I had imagined Pazzi was attempting to animate with Orsini, but it wasn't any better. He had dirt on Orsini, nothing too out of the ordinary for a Florentine Pope, but he wouldn't want it to get out nonetheless, and so Jacopo was planning on using it to gain his vote. Orsini had stolen money from the church to pay a debt, and Pazzi was blackmailing him with the threat of realising the information to the public. Orsini's vote would definitely sway others of the Priori, precisely why mother wished me to marry Clarice. But even if she had agreed I do not imagine it would be of much assistance now. Lucky for us, we have the money to replace what Orsini stole, and I imagine that combined with a warning of Jacopo's intentions will gain me Orsini's favour. I know what you had to do for this information was hard, but you're strong, and it was worth it.

"Lorenzo!" My mother's voice tore through my uplifted mood. "It's important!" She continued her yelling through the door when I failed to answer. I didn't wish to leave you unattended, but it would only further raise suspicions if I holed up inside my room all day. One last glance over you to ensure you were still alright, and I slipped through the door, careful not to open it too wide.

"You look terrible," Mother immediately insulted me. My eyes shot up to the ceiling, then to a vase in the hallway, trying my absolute hardest to let the comment slide.

"Thank you, mother," I couldn't help it.

"Why aren't you dressed? You have a visitor waiting," she scolded, attempting to fix my hair. I swatted her hand away half-heartedly, more focused on her words.

"Visitor?"

"Clarice Orsini," she smirked, raising her eyebrows.

Clarice? I was certain that had fallen through already. It didn't matter anyways, I didn't have much use for her now.

"What is the matter with you this morning? Go and get dressed, quickly!" She pointed towards my door, and I did as she said, confused. Should I continue with the proposal? Could it do me any good? I tried to imagine her links but I couldn't think of any opportunity. So how do I kindly rescind my statement from the other night? I don't have the energy for this. We had so much to sort out after last night, marriage seemed trivial now.

Your eyes fluttered open as I re-entered, clearly not closing the door as gently as I thought. "How are you feeling?" I questioned, although I couldn't gage your reaction as I quickly began dressing myself in clean clothes.

"Like stealing your bed linen," you groaned, turning over to lay on your back.

I couldn't keep the smile off my face at your words, I had never quite considered that my linen was something to be thankful for until I had visited you in your own abode. "They're yours," turning to face you, your eyes already watching me, "a starting payment for last night," I continued grinning as I fastened my shirt, but your smile faded. Too soon?

You stood up out of bed, my plain shirt acting as an underdress for you. "I really am sorry, Lorenzo." Your gaze met mine, moving but never breaking as you studied me intently.

"No need for an apology," I fumbled with the buttons on my jacket, not wanting to break eye contact, "that's the last time I'm saying that."

Your fingers fell onto mine, pushing them out of the way to do the buttons for me. Something so simple, yet I hated it.

"Okay," you took your time choosing your words, "no apologies, but we still have to discuss it."

I lifted my chin, looking upwards now as you finished with my jacket. "And we will. When I'm back."

"Back?" You questioned, bitterness sleeping into your tone.

"The Orsini girl is downstairs. I won't be long," I tried to explain, but it was obvious you didn't have much patience this morning.

"I thought you said-" you began, but I knew where you were going. You finished up with the buttons and stood away from me.

"The visit was unexpected. I was certain she didn't wish to marry. She still couldn't. But she's been waiting long enough," I informed, but it didn't change your pout. I would be irritated too if the man I'd murdered for last night pushed me to the back of his schedule, but I thought you were smarter than that.

"Well good luck," you sighed, before heading for the window. I wish you'd stop doing that.

"Y/n," I grabbed your hand before you'd gone too far, "I shan't be long. Please wait here for me. You need some rest and it's just easier."

Your face became serious, your lips tugging upwards as you nodded.

"Thank you, lock the door after me," I brought your hand up to my lips, placing a kiss onto your knuckles, before letting it go and leaving my room again. I don't know why I did that, I wasn't even thinking really. It was a just a force of habit. It had to be.

I shook my head as I made my way throughout the house, as if it would erase the memory. I couldn't bring myself to look at your reaction, I can't help but imagine your look of disgust. We never acted civil towards each other, I guess you gained some respect last night and it's confused me. It won't happen again.

"Messer Medici," Clarice's voice grounded me. She was standing in the lobby, graceful as ever.

"Madonna," I greeted her, taking her hand to repeat my earlier actions with you, this time feeling normal. She smiled as she returned her hand to her side.

"Please," I motioned to my study, leading her in, closing the door behind us. I felt myself fighting a smile as I remembered my first encounter with you here, and just how serious your threats against my life were.

"What may I do for you, Clarice?" I asked, sitting in my own chair across from her.

"I think we both know why I'm here," she glanced down at her hands in her lap, an air of sadness around her, clearly visible through her smile.

"After our last conversation, I can't say I do."

"I've had some time to consider. I spoke to Father Carlo, and I've realised that I can still achieve good through this path," she nodded, looking up at me as if for my approval.

"Clarice, we both know this isn't what you truly want," I don't know why I was dissuading her so heavily. I can imagine my mother’s reaction, but I don't need this marriage anymore. No matter mother’s pleas of how it would help my position even without the vote, I really didn't wish for marriage. I never had, but particularly now it left a bad taste in my mouth.

"With respect, Messer, you don't know what I want," Clarice's shyness had dissipated, "you don't know me at all."

"Exactly," I agreed, she was making my point for me. Frankly, I felt this was a waste of time at this point. I needed to talk to you, y/n.

"No, Lorenzo, you're not-" I was quickly growing tired of this.

"Clarice. I shouldn't have spoken to you on the balcony that night. I was unaware of your aspirations, and truly thought that this marriage would benefit us both. Since, I have spoken to our mutual friend Carlo and realised how wrong I was. I believe life is too short to marry without reason, without purpose," the lies were like honey from my lips at this point. But Clarice had a taste for them.

"I agree," she nodded. "But don't think I am stupid Lorenzo." My eyebrows furrowed, what could she be referring to?

"I don't, not for a moment."

She chuckled, looking at the ground, her hair falling over her shoulder. "I know why you've had the sudden change of heart. And it's not for me."

There was no fathomable way she could know of Pazzi and the Orsinis? Not even Orsini himself knew yet, I had hoped.

"Your heart belongs to another," the words froze me. I laughed at her implication, but worry set in.

"You know not of which you speak," I told her, trying to figure out how she even knew you existed, and why she thought you owned my heart. She was sorely mistaken, but it was probably better to let her believe we were having an affair than the truth, for both our sakes. You had mentioned you had spied on her yourself one day, maybe she'd made a connection then? Surely you were better than to have been seen by her? My head was spinning.

"Oh, really?" She continued to laugh in my face. "People speak, more than you think, Lorenzo. I know about you and Ardinghelli's wife, I'm surprised he doesn't." Lucrezia. She was talking about Lucrezia. Of course. My mind only wandered to you because you were upstairs. Of course. Fine. I'd work this angle.

"Clarice, I'm sorry..." I hung my head, really selling it.

"No, I am, Lorenzo. You made a promise to me you couldn't keep. I knew that then and I'm sure of it now," Clarice stood up, I rose with her. "Goodbye." She left before I could even make my way around the desk. I sunk back into my chair. Lucrezia... I was supposed to see her last night before everything. She wouldn't be happy.

Mother walked into the room, looking backwards as she did, presumably at Clarice. "So?" She pushed. I just shook my head no, earning a sigh from her, before she began her lecture.

—-

Three knocks and no answer. My hood was pulled all the way up, eyes down in hopes that made me less recognisable. Once I had finished disappointing my mother I had rushed out, needing to see Lucrezia and try and apologise. She never was the forgiving type. I felt bad making you wait but you needed the sleep regardless, it would probably do you more good than anything else.

"Go away, Lorenzo," Lucrezia seethed at me through the closed door.

"Please, just let me in," I begged, head resting on the wooden door.

"I don't want to hear it," she continued, she could be so irritating.

"I can make it worth your while?" I bargained, glancing around.

The door opened a crack, and Lucrezia peered through the opening. "I said go away."

"Lucrezia," was all I said, leaving the rest of the work to my face.

She sighed, before opening the door, "You better have a good excuse." The best. But I couldn't tell her.

"I had so much business to deal with last night, time just slipped by and I didn't even notice until-"

"Cut it, Lorenzo. I'm tired of this," I stood awkwardly apart from her, not knowing what to do. "I know you plan on marrying Clarice Orsini."

I laughed at her words. My first mistake.

"You think it's funny?" She raised an eyebrow.

"Lucrezia, come on, you're married." She was being a hypocrite.

"It's different Lorenzo, you know it is."

"How? And I'm not even marrying her!" I raised my voice, I shouldn't have even come here. I had left you in my room without food or water after the past few days you'd been through, Lucrezia clearly wasn't going to listen to me anyways.

"Then why did she come to me yesterday?" She continued to push.

"We were considering it," I admitted, "but it's not happening. She just left a half hour ago."

Lucrezia snorted, "She left? So you were with her last night?"

"Oh my- I don't have time for this, Lucrezia," I couldn't believe how ridiculous she was being. I just wanted to go back to you. I had enough messes already.

"You don't have time?" She scoffed. "Well I won't waste another minute of your precious time," she crossed the room the door, opening it for me.

"You know that's not what I meant." I began, but I'd already gone too far.

"Then what did you mean, exactly?" Her band sat on her hip, she was furious

For once, I didn't have an answer.

"Get out, Lorenzo, now." Her voice was stern.

"Lucrezia, please-"

"I mean it."

——

It was one thing after another. I was almost relieved to be able to just talk with you about your murder. At least it wouldn't end with a fight, I hope. I scribbled a note for Orsini when I arrived home, sending a messenger off before I ascended the stairs to you. Hopefully he would have better luck delivering it than the Pazzi's boy.

I glanced around, ensuring no one was looking, before knocking lightly on my own bedroom door. No answer.

"Y/n," my voice quiet, desperate to not raise suspicion. Still no answer. My hand fell to the doorknob, twisting it open with ease. Why would you have forgotten to lock it?

I entered the room, a light chill passing through my body, the window open and my shirt laid out on the bed. I wish I could've been surprised.

[40sbarnes]

Medici: Spymasters of Florence

Chapter 3: Don’t You Want To Live Forever?

Part 3!! I truly do apologise for how long it’s been! Circumstances have been crazy lately but I will be trying my hardest to update regularly! Thanks for the support on the last parts, I hope you enjoy this chapter as well!

Pairings : Lorenzo de Medici x reader (slowburn), (very mild) Francesco x reader (but still not really)

Tag list: @brynthebulldozer 💖

“Sometimes I just feel like I'm never going to finish this damned painting," your eyes watched the young painters carefully from where you stood by a fruit stand across the way. They were your way into Sandros workshop without drawing too much attention to yourself. Jacopo's new job for you was to scout it out. Apparently Vespucci had commissioned a painting of his wife, Simonetta, from Sandro, but as Jacopo tended to do, he thought there was more to it then that. He had received reports that Lorenzo's brother, Guiliano had been seen in the studio multiple times. Jacopo was fretting over a possible alliance between the Medici's and Vespucci's and wanted to see if they were plotting something, and using the painting as a cover. Pazzi's paranoia may be over the top sometimes, but it only meant more work for you, so you had no complaints.

You took a bite into the fresh apple you had borrowed as you moved towards Sandro's apprentices, trying to get a better listen to them. "You will! It's already magnificent, you simply need to find your muse..." the mans eyes landed on you as you approached them, his sentence trailing off.

—-

You followed your new friend, Leo, into the shop, glancing around, acting as if you were admiring all the different art pieces while you actually took in your surroundings. You immediately spotted Sandro towards the back of the studio. He appeared to be working on a painting, but there were no models in front of him where he kept looking for reference. Odd.

A tug at your hand brought your attention away from him. Leo led you to a corner covered by a large thin piece of fabric. Canvases covered in different mediums were scattered throughout the small space. They were beautiful, but they weren't why you were here.

"Wow," you breathed out, spinning around, keeping your act up, "I don't possess the vocabulary worthy of describing their beauty," you were laying it on thick.

"I know how you feel," Leo stood staring at you.

You simply grinned, glancing at the ground as a slight chuckle escaped your lips.

"Leo?! Is that you?" Sandro called from the back of the shop. He must've heard you.

"Just a minute," Leo whispered to you, before disappearing back through the curtain you walked through.

You listened to them talking, moving carefully parallel to them on the other side of the curtain, towards the far end of the room. They were discussing the painting, nothing out of the ordinary to your ears.

You reached another curtain at the end, into a different section of the building. You peered around it slightly, taking in the sight in front of you. You knew it. Pazzi was paranoid. Vespucci's wife was locking lips with Lorenzos brother. You couldn't say you weren't surprised, but it wasn't the secret alliance you were looking for. If anything, it meant for certain there wasn't an alliance. You were considering what you'd do with this information when Giuliano's eyes locked with yours. He immediately broke from Simonetta, and started racing towards you. You dipped back behind the curtain, moving backwards, unsure of where to go. Giuliano came through it a second later, seeming mad.

"Who are you?" He whisper shouted.

"No one. Who saw nothing," your eyes were wide, trying to act innocent.

"Ah! I see you've met Leo's guest, friend!" Sandro appeared at the opposite end of the hall, Leo in tow.

You spun to face him, relieved for a way out of this situation. "And what a sight she is for someone who's been painting you for hours," he continued speaking to Giuliano.

You blushed, trying to hide how his flattery sickened you. You needed to get out of here. This was a dead-end anyways, and it was just creating more problems by the minute. "These paintings are the true sight!" You motioned to them as you walked, edging closer to the door.

"Well that gives me a wondrous idea," he smiled, his hand reaching for your arm, stopping you from moving any further.

"No," you shook your head, still smiling, although you weren't sure how far your acting could go. You knew what he was insinuating. You never had the desire to be painted and now was certainly not a time to change your mind.

"Have you never wanted to be immortal?" He smirked, his free hand moving up to graze your cheek. You stepped out of his grasp before he could.

"This life is already far too long for me," you walked backwards towards the door.

"People deserve to witness your beauty. Who can fault them for being born centuries after you?" Sandro continued his pitch, this clearly wasn't his first time.

"I'm flattered, truly, but-"

"But listen to the lady, Sandro, it clearly doesn't take her interest," Lorenzo stood in the doorway. Fuck. How were you going to explain yourself?

"Lorenzo? How are you my dear friend?" Sandro greeted him, completely moving on from the previous conversation.

"Busy," Lorenzo spoke through gritted teeth, stepping back out the door, waiting for you to exit. You did, letting him close the door behind you. You walked in silence together, until suddenly he pushed you into a stranded side alley, up against the cold stone.

"Hey!" You warned, pushing against his chest.

"What the hell was that?" Lorenzo asked, not flinching.

"What was what?"

"Now is not the time to play stupid, y/n, why were you in Sandro's workshop?"

"Leo was showing me around," you shrugged, trying not to make a big deal out of it.

"Oh, come on," he rolled his eyes, "there's plenty of other places in this city for you to degrade yourself."

"Tell that to your brother," you finally pushed out of his grasp, growing tired of this.

Lorenzo scrunched his face in anger, looking to the ground, "I trust I already have your silence?"

"You're trusting me?" You smiled coyly, brushing a strand of hair from Lorenzos cheek, purposefully irritating him. He slapped your hand away.

"Not in the slightest. You've already proven that's not a smart move. You're still wearing the ring you stole," he observed.

Your right hand slid over your left, subconsciously wanting to hide the ring.

"Useless thief," Lorenzo muttered, second guessing this whole arrangement.

"Pazzi just wanted to know why Vespuccis wife was in there, he knows how close you and Sandro are," you held up a gold coin you had just pick pocketed from Lorenzo, once again proving your skill to him.

"And you didn't tell me why?" He questioned, holding out his hand for you to return the coin.

"It was easier to just tell you after, I figured it wasn't a big deal, and I was right," you narrowed your eyes at him, slipping the coin into your dress.

"This isn't about what suits you personally, y/n, that's not what I'm paying you for," he reminded you, balling his open hand into a fist by his side instead, "we agreed you'd come to me first."

"Forgive me for not constantly wanting the pleasure of your company," you raised your chin as you glanced down the alleyway.

"You didn't mind my company when I helped you from becoming one of Sandros new muses moments ago," Lorenzo tried to find something else to hold over your head.

"I didn't need your help," you crossed your arms, you could handle a measly painter.

"Good," Lorenzo stated, his eyes surveying your body for a split second, "because what a waste of paint that would've been."

—-

You watched intently as Lorenzo made his way down the near vacant cobblestoned alley. You were trailing him from the rooftops, keeping your distance. You wouldn’t admit it, but his words earlier hurt. And you wanted to hurt him back. So you thought you’d refine and practice your spy skills, by following him. He had been twitchy after he left you, glancing over his shoulder far too often. You knew he was up to no good. He paused in front of a door at the end of the street, looking around one last time, completely oblivious to you tucked away behind a chimney, before knocking on the door.

You peeked out slowly, your eyes focused as the door opened. Lorenzo sighed as his, and your, eyes fell on the person who answered. Lucrezia Donati, Niccoló Ardinghelli’s wife. Your mind instantly began to spin a web of possible alliances and businesses that could link the two families, just for it to fall apart as the two nobles locked lips in the doorway. Lucrezia whisked Lorenzo inside, closing the door behind them, leaving you on the rooftop, having successfully shed Lorenzo’s title of useless spy.