#william boldwood and reader

[moonlightpirate]

Return to The Madding Crowd

Chapter 2: A Fall Day

Tag list: @ingeniousvemon @its-just-me-chey @nothingbutcloud @thegoldfishbowl

Ao3 and Masterlist

One week later:

William paced nervously around his dining room. He really wanted to go check in on that girl that had been injured at Gabriel and Bathsheba's last week, but it seemed so wrong. He didn't even know her name so why was he so worried about her? Plus there seemed to be another man involved so he really shouldn't get involved himself. Really he should just stay home and forget that girl even existed. He stopped pacing and looked longingly out the window towards the farmhouse almost begging himself to just stay home. Sighing at his own ridiculousness he finally decided to put on a coat and make his way down the stairs and out the door and end his own suffering.

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

You had finally finished all of your chores for the day on the farm which you were thankful for since it was a perfect fall day and you didn't intend to waste it at all. Grabbing a book you found a quiet spot at the edge of the property by the woods and laid out a blanket. Once you were comfortable you opened the book and immediately became immersed in the romance story. You were unsure how long you had been laying there reading when you heard the sound of someone clearing their throat. Startled, since you assumed you were alone, you jumped and looked up in surprise to see the handsome man that had been at the farmhouse after you turned down the soldier's proposal.

"Oh hello! How are you? It was William wasn't it?" You inquire, trying to sound cheerful though embarrassment flooded you as you remembered he saw you in such an awful way. 

"Uh….. yes William Boldwood is the name. I'm ….doing….. fine." William stammered, realizing how nervous he really was.

"Well good. How can I help you?".

"Well I wanted to make sure you were doing okay actually.".

You could tell he was nervous by the way he kept playing with his hands and looking everywhere but at you. In this light he looked even more handsome; you could really see his dark brown hair with the small streaks of gray in it. His face looked so soft and so sweet but yet rugged. Had you not given up on love you could have easily fallen for him. 

"Oh that is too kind. I'm doing alright. Ankle is a bit sore when I work a bit too long on the farm but otherwise I’m fine." You reassure him, finally standing up off the ground.

"Well um that is good to hear miss…oh goodness I just realized I never asked for your name how rude of me." William blushed.

"Ah it's (y/f/n y/l/n)." You smile, extending your hand out to him. 

He shakes it and your eyes meet for the first time and you are stunned at just how blue his eyes were. The way they shone in the sun they could put the blue sky to shame. Realizing you were probably holding his gaze a bit too long you immediately look down and start to nervously play with your hair. 

"If it's not too intrusive I was wondering what exactly happened to you. You don't need to tell me if you don't wish. I just have never seen Gabriel so mad before so I just figured it must be something truly awful to anger him so.".

"Oh…. well it's nothing that exciting. Just my mother really wanted me to marry this awful soldier instead of working and living here with my cousin. I did not want to marry him mostly because I didn’t love him. To make a long story short he wasn't happy that I said no to him and made sure I knew he wasn't happy. What you saw was the aftermath of that." You sigh. 

William gasps, "That is awful! I am so sorry!". 

"Don't be sorry. It's my fault I want to marry for love. He didn’t love me, he just wanted my family’s money.  So despite what he did to me I'm glad I said no to him.".

“That is still terrible. You deserve so much better. But seeing what he did to you just from you turning him down I’m glad you said no to him and didn’t marry him. I can only imagine what other awful things he could have done to you had you married him.���. 

William moved a bit closer to you and it seemed as if he wanted to hug you but was waiting to see your reaction. Instead time seemed to freeze as you stood there staring into each other's eyes again.

Finally you take a breath and decide to break the tension, "I appreciate the kind words. Also thank you for coming and checking up on me. You really didn't need to come all this way."

"It really wasn’t that far. I live in the house just down there." William explained, pointing to the big house just down the road. 

"Oh! Boldwood! I can't believe I didn't put two and two together! You're the one who saved my cousin from her former husband."

"You're Bathsheba's cousin?” William inquired, “But yes I um killed her husband and was put in jail…I was supposed to be there for life……" .

"Yeah I’m her cousin. She was nice enough to let me move here to help with the farm. But she told me that you saved her life and that's why they helped bail you out so you didn't suffer.". 

You could see him getting emotional. He obviously didn't see it that way but was clearly thankful they freed him. 

"Indeed so. But anyways I’m glad you're better and you didn't marry that wretched man. You will find love, I'm sure of it.”  William sighed as he quickly turned to leave feeling embarrassed. 

"Oh I'm not really sure love exists anymore. But thank you." You mutter, kneeling down to pick up all your stuff.

"I used to think love didn't exist, at least for men like me. But that started to change when I looked into your beautiful eyes. But I hope you have a lovely day." You heard Willam remark.

You froze as his words slowly hit you. Carefully you stood back up and turned to look back at him  but he was already out of sight. You found yourself blushing and smiling at his kind words. But could a handsome man like him really love you?

[mymultiverse00]

Eyes On Me

You’re staring again. You can’t help it. You’re meant to be reading as your husband is hard at work, but your pages have long been abandoned in favor of a more pleasant pastime, watching William.

Every now and then, in quiet times like these, your eyes will automatically find your husband, and your mind will start to wander. You start thinking about how lucky you are to have married such a handsome man, and you cannot help but want to watch him and his every movement, no matter how minute.

The way his eyes move across the page of his correspondence. The tiny furrow of his brow when in deep contemplation. Beautiful.

The way his lips press together in a tight line when he is displeased by what he reads, or twitch into an almost smile when he is amused. Gorgeous.

The sure movements of his strong hands as his pen dances across his pages, or the frustrated way he sometimes runs his fingers through his curly hair or his diligently groomed beard. Arousing.

It soon becomes impossible to imagine those eyes, lips, and hands doing anything but worshiping your body, and before long, you are lost in fantasy and staring yet again.

William, of course, is not unaware of your predicament. “Darling,” he calls softly, eyes still firmly focused on his work. “Are you well?”

His deep voice startles you from your reverie. “Hmm? I’m sorry, William. Did you say something?”

He smiles mischievously, putting aside his pen to focus exclusively on you. “I cannot help but notice you seem to have abandoned your book, Mrs. Boldwood. Have you found something else to capture your attention?”

“Umm… no…” you dither.

He pushes away from his desk then slowly rises, coming to sit next to you on the chaise. He slowly removes the book from your hand and sets it aside, lifting a hand to your chin and turning your face to his. “I can feel your eyes on me, my dear. Will you tell me what it is you are thinking about, or am I meant to guess?” He asks lowly, his voice seducing you already.

“Is it this?” He inquires, raising your hands to his lips and placing a soft kiss on each one. You smile and shake your head slightly.

“Hmm.. is it this?” He moves in closer to place a tender kiss behind your ear. You sigh happily, but again shake your head no.

“Perhaps it’s this you are thinking of,” he states, dipping his head low to nuzzle the skin between your neck and shoulder. He sucks lightly on the creamy skin, causing you to giggle at his tickling whiskers, but still you say no.

“What could possibly have distracted you so, my love?” He teases. “Surely it’s not this?” He wraps his arms around you firmly and kisses your lips with delicious fervor. You close your eyes to the wonderful sensation, and when he pulls away slowly, your lips nearly chase after his. When you reopen your eyes, you gaze at him with intense longing.

“It is simply you, my husband,” you whisper to him, leaning forward to hide your flushed face in his chest. “I am in need of you, William.”

“Then you shall have me, darling.”

——————-

He is staring again. He can’t help it. He’s meant to be sleeping after making love to his wife, but his slumber has long been abandoned for a more pleasant pastime: watching his beloved sleep.

Every now and then, in quiet times like these, his eyes will automatically find you, and his mind will start to wander. He starts thinking about how lucky he is to have married such a beautiful woman and cannot help but want to watch you and your every movement, no matter how minute.

He cannot wait for you to wake up and will keep his eyes on you until you do. Perhaps he will be able to distract you all over again. He smiles into the darkness and resumes his watch.

The End

[avocado-writing]

You write so well for all the Michael characters !!! Question do you have any hcs about what kinks the different characters would have? Like Aziraphale or Boldwood or Blum or Whitley ? Or any other ?

I’ve definitely done kink lists for Aziraphale & Roland before so —

martin whitly

Medical kink. Obviously. Loves to finger you when you’re in a patient’s chair and he’s wearing rubber gloves. something about how shiny you get on his fingers like that drives him wild.

dirty talk kink. Well, you have to have phone sex, they’re not very lax about him having conjugal visits… yet.

any kink where he gets to cum all over your face or chest I think. Likes seeing evidence of having fucked you, doesn’t let you wipe it off afterwards either.

William Boldwood

Look he’s a sweet 1860s bachelor. His kink is looking after you. But ALSO

creampie kink. Loves finishing inside you. Loves that he gets to finish inside you now you’re married!

And to that end… pregnancy kink. Not that he ever expects it to take because he’s so HORRENDOUSLY OLD (forty). But when it happens, he’s ecstatic.

His kink is you.

[avocado-writing]

not to be overly saccharine this evening but thinking about telling William Boldwood, your new husband who’d long ruled himself out of the dream of fatherhood, that you’re pregnant.

“William, darling, I’m expecting.”

“Oh? Company?”

“Erm… in a manner of speaking.”

[moonlightpirate]

Return to The Madding Crowd

Chapter 1: The Storm

You are Bathsheba's cousin who now lives with her and Gabriel on their farm and helps out. Bathsheba and Gabriel felt bad about what happened to William and have just bailed him out of jail so he can live in his house.

Tag list (let me know if you want to be added 😊): @ingeniousvemon

Ao3

It was a dark and stormy night, the lightning lighting up the path ahead was the only thing that was helping you find your way home. You were soaked to the bone and had been walking for what felt like an eternity, you couldn’t believe that you had been that far away from your cousin’s house. Finally, after several hours, another flash of lightning showed you the farmhouse and it wasn’t too far away. You wanted to run to the house as you were ready to be out of the rain and forget tonight even happened. But the pain that was shooting up your leg with every step reminded you that running would not be happening. Slowly you approached the farmhouse wincing with pain as you went up the porch steps. You opened the front door and could hear talking coming from the dining room area which was odd with how late it was. Quietly you closed the door and tried to sneak inside but the old farmhouse floors were so creaky and your limp was getting worse.

"Y/n is that you?" Bathsheba hollered.

"Yeah it's me. I'm…um…. tired I'm going to go to bed." You shout in reply.

Your mother had wanted you to marry a wealthy soldier instead of helping your cousin Bathsheba on her farm. But you had no interest in marriage, at least not yet, and if you were to marry you wanted it to be for love. Tonight your mother insisted that you meet with the soldier for a date and he decided to try to propose to you. He was mad when you turned down his proposal and took his anger out on you. Afterwards he left you to find your own way home. You didn’t want to alarm Bathsheba or Gabriel so you tried to appear to walk normally as you passed by the dining room so that they would not notice your limp. 

"Hold it….you're limping…..what did he do to you?!" Gabriel demanded as he jumped up from the table grabbing your shoulders as he observed you.

Shyly you turn your head and look into the dining room causing Bathsheba to gasp. You noticed a rather handsome man sitting at the table who was also looking at you in shock. There was a mirror behind the man and you could just barely see your reflection in the mirror. Apparently the downpour outside hadn’t managed to wash all the blood off of your face, and it looked like bruises were beginning to form from where he had hit you.

"Gabriel, I'm fine really." You mumble trying to push him away. 

"You're covered in blood and limping, no you're not fine. Where is he?!". 

"Gabriel,what are you going to do? Please leave him alone!" Bathsheba begged. 

"No, he deserves to be punished, look what he did to her!" Gabriel shouted as he stormed out the front door into the storm. 

Bathsheba jumped up from the table and ran out after him hoping to stop him. You blush and  glance down in embarrassment as you realize you are now alone with this strange man. Slowly you attempt to keep walking to your room as your ankle gives out and you collapse to the floor.

"Oh goodness miss! Please let me help you. You're badly injured." The man pleaded,  rushing to your aid. 

"I'm fine really……" You stutter, blushing in embarrassment. .

"I insist. Please.".

He holds one hand out for you to grab onto and the other wraps around you for support. Gently he uses all his strength as he helps you up and guides you over to a nearby chair.

"Thank you." You whisper, your eyes are practically glued to the floor in pure embarrassment at everything.

"Can I offer you tea or anything to help make you more comfortable until they get back?" The man inquired.

You could feel him hovering over you and had a feeling he wouldn't leave your side until you said yes to tea or food.

"Sure tea sounds lovely." You smile, finally looking up at him. 

The way his face lit up made you blush a little harder than you already were. You watched as he quickly grabbed the tea pot and a tea cup and quickly poured some tea. When he gestured to the sugar you shook your head no. You just wanted something warm to take the chill out of your bones. He handed you the cup and finally sat back down. Quietly you drank the tea waiting for Bathsheba to return with Gabriel. You could feel this man's eyes boring into you and you knew he was burning to ask you questions. Just as you were about to break the silence, Bathsheba and Gabriel returned. Gabriel stopped and glared at you.

"If I see him again I'm going to make him pay for what he did to you." He growled before turning away to put on dry clothes.

"William, I must ask you to leave. I am sorry. We will pick up this conversation another day. Y/n let's get you cleaned up and dried off before you catch a cold." Bathsheba consoled, gently putting a hand on your back.

The man, William, nodded his head and left. He gave you one final wistful look before closing the door. Using the table and Bathsheba's hand you hoisted yourself up and you slowly made your way upstairs where Bathsheba helped run you a warm bath. Once you were in the bath Bathsheba ran to your room to grab you your nightgown. Afterwards she left you alone to relax knowing you didn't want to talk about what had happened with the soldier. Little did she know you were curious as to who William was and why he had been here. After the bath you carefully made your way into your bed and laid down glad to finally be off of your feet for the night.

[moonlightpirate]

Masterlist

This is getting long so time for the keep reading cut!!!!

Return to The Madding Crowd

Chapter 1: The Storm

Chapter 2: A Fall Day

Chapter 3: To Love or Not to Love

Chapter 4: Proper Lady

Chapter 5: The Letters

Chapter 6: The Wedding Ball

Law of Destiny

Chapter 1: Stuck in Cintra

Chapter 2: The Journey Home

Chapter 3: Wide Awake

Chapter 4: Love and Dreams

Chapter 5: Damsel in Distress

Joey Batey and Jaskier

Secret Worlds series

The necklace

Together again

Dancing Under The Stars

Inkpot Gods

Chapter one

Chapter two

Chapter three

Meeting the Lettenhoves

That Unwanted Animal

Part two Meeting the Lettenhoves

Adam Warlock

Goldilocks

Chapter 1: Thunderstruck

Valentines Day One Shots

Someone To Say

Madly

West Side Story

Somethings Coming

[moonlightpirate]

Return to The Madding Crowd

Chapter 4: Proper Lady

An engagement feels close! But what will happen when your parents come to the farm?

Sorry this took so long again 😅 tag list: @nothingbutcloud @thegoldfishbowl @its-just-me-chey

Masterlist Ao3

It had been a year since you had told Bathsheba your feelings for William. The entire year you spent with him as much as you could getting to know him as he also courted you. On this particular fall day you were doing your usual chores around the farm with Bathsheba and found yourself unable to stop talking about William. 

"I think a proposal must be coming soon!" You gushed to Bathsheba.

"Oh? Do you really think so?" Bathsheba teased. 

"Yes! I bet it will be my Christmas gift! He is such a romantic that I can definitely see it happening." You sigh dreamily. 

"Christmas is months away! Do you really think he will wait that long?". 

"Yes! Simply because……." Your voice trailed off as you saw an all too familiar carriage pull up in front of the farmhouse.

The color drained from your face as your parents stepped out of the carriage. They approached Gabriel and were pointing towards you. Anxiously you waited for several minutes before he finally came over towards you. Bathsheba put a gentle hand on you and that's when you realized that you were shaking from fear. 

"Relax dear. I'm sure it's nothing serious." She whispered to you. 

"Y/n your parents wish to speak with you." Gabriel stated.

"Did they say why?". 

"Sorry no they did not.".

You sigh before nodding and slowly making your way towards where they were standing waiting impatiently. 

"Gabriel, go tell William. I don't have a good feeling about this. They're probably going to take her home." Bathsheba begged. 

"What exactly can William do about that though dear? It's not like he can stop them."

"No but he has the right to know what is going on.".

Gabriel nodded and dashed towards the barn and got on his horse making his way towards Williams estate as fast as he could. 

********

"Mom, dad, what brings you here?" You inquire as you approach them and give them an awkward hug. 

"We have had enough of you fooling around on this farm. It is time you come home." Your father stated.

"Wait….what….no….." you gasp. 

"We aren't asking y/n you're coming home whether you like it or not." Your mother interjected. 

You begin to cry, "Please no I enjoy being here with Bathsheba and Gabriel. Plus I've met someone!". 

"Oh we've heard. The man who is twice your age. Do you really think that is appropriate? Besides the holidays are fast approaching your older brother is set to get married just before Christmas his wife needs all the help she can get. We need you at home." Your mother remarked.

"He is not twice my age! I don't care that he's getting married or that she needs help. I don't want to go. They need me here." You plead, beginning to cry harder. 

Your father gives you a stern look, "Y/n that is enough.".

You begin to back away but without another word your mother pushed you into the house. 

*******

Gabriel ran to William's door and began banging on it desperately. Finally after several minutes it opened to William looking at Gabriel with a concerned look.

"What has happened?".

"Y/n's parents are at our house right now." Gabriel gasped clearly out of breath.

"Oh! How lucky I am to finally meet them!" William beamed. 

"William unfortunately that is not why they are here. Or Bathsheba is convinced that is not why they are here.".

Williams' smile began to falter, “What do you mean by that?”.

“All I know is that they weren’t happy and they demanded to speak to her. I fear that they are going to demand that she return home or force her to marry someone.”.

William closed his eyes as he realized some of his worst fears were beginning to come true.

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

Bathsheba slowly approached your father; she figured it was time to intervene. 

"So what's going on inside? Where is your wife and y/n?".

"We are taking our daughter home." He replied. 

"Well I need her here. The harvest is due soon and I need all the help I can get." Bathsheba retorted. 

"We need her at home. I am not arguing this. I have let her play Farmer with you long enough.". 

You came down the steps with bags in hand. Your cheeks were stained with tears. You looked at Bathsheba pleadingly as you passed by her. Of course your mother kept a stern hand on your back as she pushed you down the steps towards the carriage. 

"She doesn't look like she wants to go with you. Let her stay. You know she has been being courted by the gentleman down the road. I'm pretty sure he's going to propose soon…." Bathsheba pleaded.

"Oh yes, the man who is older than her. It isn't proper. We will make sure she sees that. Good day Bathsheba." He turned and made his way down the steps before getting into the carriage behind you and your mother. 

Bathsheba watched as the carriage began to pull away. Just then both Gabriel and William came into sight on horses. Gabriel jumped down and ran up to Bathsheba as they watched William desperately chase after the carriage on his horse. 

"What is going on?" Gabriel inquired. 

"They're taking her home. They don't think it's proper for her to be here or to marry William.". 

They looked at each other solemnly for a moment.

"I'll go get William. There's no way he will catch that carriage." Gabriel sighed, getting back on his horse. 

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

You watched desperately out the back of the carriage as William chased after on his horse. Of course you guys had a head start and were going fast enough that it wasn't long before you lost sight of William. You began to cry harder.

"That is enough of those tears. It is time to be a proper young lady and to marry someone who is proper for you." Your father replied sternly. 

You look out the window ignoring your father trying to hide your tears from him.

********

"Nooooo y/n!" William shouted. 

He jumped off the horse and ran hoping to gain sight of the carriage again. After several minutes he collapsed to the ground. 

"William!" Gabriel shouted, he jumped off his horse and ran up to him, "are you okay?". 

"Where have they taken her?" William demanded. 

"Home. They don't think any of this is proper.". 

"She will be back won't she?". 

"I'm sure she will. She's like Bathsheba. Very stubborn. Don't worry.". 

William looked longingly down the road. He wondered if it would be worth his time to find out where her parents lived. Perhaps if he went and talked to them they would allow them to be together. 

"Come on William. Let's go back to the farmhouse." Gabriel urged. 

"Yes of course." William nodded, slowly he stood up. He got back on his horse and took one last look down the road as the fear overtook him of never seeing you again. 

[moonlightpirate]

Return to The Madding Crowd

Chapter 3: To Love or Not to Love

Time for Bathsheba to find out if you have feelings for William or not.

Taglist: @its-just-me-chey @nothingbutcloud @thegoldfishbowl @ingeniousvemon

Ao3 Masterlist

"Okay William you've been here at least once a week for about a month now. Care to tell me what's going on? You do know I'm married….." Bathsheba began to speculate.

Authors notes so I aged William to 45 to show a passage of time. I also have the reader at the age of 30 but feel free to imagine whatever age you would like!

Several months later:

"Bathsheba please I am aware you are married! I promise I am not here for you." William gasped at her accusation. 

Bathsheba looked at him curiously for a minute,"Then who are …..wait……William don't tell me….".

"Yes. I'm here because I can't seem to stay away from y/n. Now I know what you're going to say. She's 30 and I'm 45. It's not proper. But I can't deny how I feel for her. But unless I'm mistaken I think she may truly feel something for me.".

"I highly doubt that since she has turned down so many men before. William, I just don't want to see you get hurt again.".

"That is why I am here. I would like you to talk to her for me and see if she has feelings for me. If she doesn't I'll stop pursuing her and leave her alone. I swear it.".

"Fine but I do not want to see you here until I've given you her answer." Bathsheba demanded. 

"That's only fair. Thank you for your help." William smiled, slowly standing up and making his way out of the farmhouse.

Bathsheba sighed and slumped down in her chair. 

"I think he is right. About her having feelings for him." Gabriel commented, causing Bathsheba to jump as she had not seen him come in.

"Oh goodness you frightened me! What makes you think she likes him?". 

"I've seen their interactions when he comes to visit her when she's been working. Bathsheba if you could see the way her face lights up when she sees him and the way she stops what she's doing to go talk to him. She's usually blushing and has a smile that is almost ear to ear when he leaves. Now tell me that doesn't sound like she has feelings for him." Gabriel explained, sitting down in front of Bathsheba holding her hands. 

"I mean maybe a little. I just worry since she has been hurt recently. Plus she has also turned down so many men before. I don't want to see anything bad happen to William again.".

Gabriel could see the fear in her eyes and gently put a hand to her face, "Well I think he has learned his lesson the hard way dear. He is being cautious. So just go and talk to her like William has asked and see what she says. You can't speak for her and you won't know until you hear it from her.". 

"What if she lies to me? Or tells me she doesn't want him? What would I say to him?".

"Take it one step at a time. Talk to her and see what she says first. I don't believe she would lie to you.".

"I suppose you are right. I'll take her with me when I go into town later this week. We will talk and I'll go from there.". 

Gabriel leaned in and gave her a kiss before they both got up to resume their duties on the farm.

Later that week:

"This is so fun! You hardly ever take me into town with you. Though I must ask what's the occasion?" You inquire of Bathsheba. 

"Am I not allowed to want to spend time with you?" Bathsheba replied, trying to look innocent. 

You cock an eyebrow at her and shake your head no. You had been wandering around shops for hours buying things but all this time and Bathsheba had hardly spoken a word to you. 

"Well we have been shopping for hours now. How about we stop for lunch before we need to go sell the grain?" Bathsheba suggested, gently ushering you towards a small Cafe. 

After you both sit down and order food you finally demand, "Okay seriously what is going on? You seem on edge.".

"Fine, I've noticed William has been hanging around the farm a lot recently. Tell me about him.".

"Not sure I know what you mean cousin. What do you want me to tell you about him? You seem to already know him, you should be telling me about him.". 

Bathsheba glared at you, "Do you have any feelings for him? I need to know. He has been hurt before and he doesn't deserve to be hurt again so I need to know what your intentions are with him."  

You stare in shock at her as her words sink in, "You really think my intentions are to hurt him?". 

Just then the waiter sets the food down in front of both of you. You both utter a quick thank you and begin to eat.

"He really likes you and you've turned down so many men….." Bathsheba finally began to reply.

Your face lights up, "He likes me?! Really?! Wait…..you think I'm leading him on? I've turned down those men because I didn't love them and they didn't love me! I feel safe with William and he makes me feel happier than I have in so long. Though I mean if he asked me to marry him now I would say no simply because of how that soldier hurt me has me not quite ready for something like that. But in time if he were to ask…..I would say yes.". 

Bathsheba looked at you trying to judge if what you said was true, "Okay I believe you. But if you change your mind and hurt him I will ask you to leave the farm.".

You gasped and nodded solemnly. You finish your lunch and help Bathsheba sell the grain before you guys head back to the farm. Once back, Bathsheba went over to tell William what she had learned. 

 Williams' face lit up in excitement, "Oh what a happy day! I am willing to wait until she is comfortable with the idea of marriage! Her having feelings for me is more than I could have ever hoped!". 

"I told her if she hurt you though that I wanted her to leave the farm so if anything happens you won't have to see her." Bathsheba stated.

"I don't think she will hurt me but thank you for your concerns and thinking of me." William smiled.

Bathsheba gave him a small hug before returning home. William practically jumped with joy at the news. He couldn't believe his luck it almost didn't feel real. 

[moonlightpirate]

Okay who saw far from the madding crowd? Did you also think William Boldwood deserved better? Anyone have fics for that 🤔🤔🤔🤔

[moonlightpirate]

Return to The Madding Crowd

Chapter 6: The Wedding Ball- This is the story of why you took so long to write

Part two of the Christmas gift! This was inspired by rewatching the movie and honestly a little bit too much bridgerton so this was part of the hold up because I was struggling with this chapter and how I wanted to write it. Hope you guys enjoy!

Taglist: (same as the last chapter let me know if you want added or removed) @nothingbutcloud @thegoldfishbowl @its-just-me-chey

Masterlist

Ao3

You sighed as the carriage pulled in front of your parents house. Without hesitation your parents got out of the carriage. As a final act of rebellion you stayed in the carriage hoping that maybe they wouldn't notice and you could bribe the driver to take you back. After a moment your mother noticed your absence and she roughly pulled you out of the carriage and gave you a push towards the house.

“Go inside and greet your brother while your father and I bring your stuff inside.” She demanded. 

“Yes Mother.” You grumble as you make your way up the elegant steps. 

The doormen open the door for you and you practically glare at them. You know it's not their fault your parents have money and can afford these kinds of luxuries. But you still aren't thrilled by their presence. Sighing you walk in and find your brother in the sitting room lounging on the sofa, eyes on you.

“Ah sister! There you are! How great to see you!” Your brother, James, grins as he stands up to embrace you.

“Never thought I’d see the day that you would get married.” You tease.

“Honestly, same here. But she is so beautiful and wonderful and just wait until you meet her at tomorrow's ball!”.

“Ball? What ball?”. 

“The one to celebrate your return home and a pre wedding celebration.” Your mother chimed in.

“I’m not going. I don’t have a dress for one.” You state.

“Don’t worry darling, I already got you a dress. It’s in your room so you will be there.” Your mother smiled.

You look at your brother in fear before sighing in defeat and heading towards your room tired from the journey. Of course the dress was laying out on the bed for you to admire. Your mother did know you well seeing as it was in your favorite color and looked like it was in your favorite style. You weren’t sure if you should be happy or irritated that it was so perfect. After several moments of looking at it you finally picked it up and hung it up in the closet and got ready for bed. The next day your parents were running around trying to make everything perfect for the ball. One of the maids spent all day with you helping you bathe, doing your hair, and making sure your makeup looked just right. You despised all this fuss and began to wonder if your parents were actually up to something. 

“It’s getting late! Guests will be here any moment please tell me she is ready!” Your mother exclaimed, bursting into your room just as you finished stepping into your shoes, “Oh my! You look absolutely beautiful dear. Let’s get you downstairs so you can meet your brother’s soon to be wife before our guests start arriving!”.

You make your way down the grand staircase towards where your brother and father are standing with another young woman in an elegant violet ball gown.

“Sister, this is my fiance Stephanie.” James introduced you.

“Finally it's a pleasure to meet you! James has told me all about you.” Stephanie curtsied. 

You awkwardly curtsied in return, “All good things I hope. I'm afraid I haven't heard much about you. But I look forward to learning more about you before the wedding.”. 

Before more could be said guests began to arrive much to your parents' relief. You had hoped that since it was to celebrate your brother's engagement that everyone would be focused on him but for some reason everyone was focused on you. It took all the guests arriving for you to be able to find time to sneak away.

“Maybe if you came home more often this wouldn't happen.” James teased, very much aware of how uncomfortable you were.

“Well if the family would be more sufferable I'd come home more often.” You retort. 

“James! My pal, how are you? Sorry for the delay.” A tall gentleman approached from behind hugging James, “Oh I am sorry. May I ask who is this beautiful woman you have with you?” He inquired as he turned to face you.  

“It's fine Henry. This is my sister Y/N. She's in town for the wedding. Come my parents will want to meet you and Stephanie will want to say hi.”.

Henry looked back at you wistfully as James dragged him away. The party was now in full swing with the guests dancing and laughing whereas you were hiding off to the side hoping no one would notice you. You really did long for the life you had with Bathsheba and Gabriel and hoped that you could return to it soon. So lost in thought you were startled when you felt a tap on your shoulder. 

“Pardon me miss. I was wondering if I might ask you to dance with me?” A familiar deep voice inquired. 

Turning around you found yourself looking at Henry, “A dance? Are you sure my brother won’t mind?”.

“He is entranced with his bride to be. I however have been entranced with you since I laid eyes on you. Please dance with me so that I may get to know you better at least.”.

You blushed at his words and were so stunned that you only managed to nod at him. His face lit up as he took your hand and escorted you out to the dance floor. You could see your parents' faces light up as the pair of you moved around the dance floor. Without realizing you managed to spend the rest of the ball with Henry, either dancing or talking while you sipped on some refreshments. Every day after the ball he showed up at your house with flowers for you. He also made sure to spend sufficient time with you when he arrived and before he left. Stephanie insisted that he was courting you but you simply refused to believe that such a handsome man as him would want someone like you. That was until a week before the wedding when you went out for a stroll in the garden with Henry.

“Thank you for getting me out. Stephanie seems lovely but she is starting to over stress about the wedding. Same with my mother. It was getting insufferable in that house.” You groan.

“You are most welcome. Are you looking forward to the wedding though?” Henry inquired.

You pondered the question for a moment, “Yes it will be nice to see James and Stephanie happy.”.

“I don't feel that is the only reason you are ready for the wedding.”.

“Whatever do you mean?”. 

“I can't place it but I feel you are hiding something.”. 

“If I am hiding something then there is more to this walk than just talking.” You huff. 

He stopped walking and blushed a little, “Well you aren't wrong.”.

You look at him in shock as realization hits you of what he is about to ask.

“Oh….?” You question looking at him questioningly.

“Well I don’t want to step on James’s wedding. But we seem to have so much in common. I would gladly move to the country and help you run a farm if that is what you would like to do while I am away with work. Anything to see you smile and be happy. You are the most beautiful woman I have ever seen that I can have such wonderful conversations with. Please consider marrying me?”.

It felt as if a tidal wave was coming crashing down on you as you realized you had been living in a fantasy world. You were terrified of what to say to him as memories of what Weston, the soldier that had proposed to you last, had done to you when you turned him down.

“I….I am not sure what to say. I shall need time.” You smile at him before turning and running as far away from Henry as your legs could take you.

You hid yourself in the small shed not far from the house and collapsed to the floor as tears started to stream down your face. After several minutes you heard a soft knock on the door. 

“Hey Y/n it's Stephanie. Are you okay? Can I come in?” Stephanie asked, clearly worried.

You muttered a sure in response before trying to sit up and make yourself look a bit more proper. 

“Oh goodness what happened?” Stephanie gasped as she saw your tear stained face.

“Nothing, I'm just…..confused.” You sigh.  

“Well what about?”.

“You have so much to do with the wedding I don’t want to take up your time.”.

“Please. I have enough time to help my future sister in law with something that is clearly hurting her.”.

You look into Stephanies pleading eyes and take a deep breath, “ I am a fool. I was never the type of woman to be swept off my feet by compliments and flowers and beautiful eyes and nothing else. But here I am swooning over Henry practically and that is all he has done is give me beautiful compliments and flowers in my favorite colors. Now he is wanting to marry me and not only do I not want that but…….” Your voice trails off.

“There’s another man isn’t there? One that you really want to be with? The reason that your parents dragged you home is because they don’t want you to be with him right?”.

“How do you know about all of that?”.

“They tried to do the same thing to James. Truth be told they didn’t want him to marry me. I had a feeling that was why you abruptly appeared.” Stephanie revealed. 

“But he changed their minds obviously! How? Oh goodness I’m such a fool. I need to write to my cousin and to William and tell them I am so sorry and that I will try to come home to them after this wedding. I must go back to them. I cant stay here.”.

“That is how he changed their mind. By showing his determination to be with me and running away. I will talk with him and have him help you get back to your cousin which is where I’m guessing your love lives.”.

“Yes. But I’m not sure what to say to Henry. Last time I turned down a man he was rather brutal to me.”.

“Henry isn’t like that, trust me. Plus James would never allow it. Be honest with him and just tell him there is another man.” Stephanie assured you before standing up and leaving.

You sighed and stood up out as well dusting off any dirt and made your way inside and up to your room. Hastily you wrote to Bathsheba and William saying sorry and that you hoped to be home before Christmas. You snuck the letters downstairs and gave them to your maid to ensure they got delivered. It took a few days before you saw Henry again. You explained everything with William and how you could not marry Henry because you were fairly certain that William was going to propose to you. He seemed disappointed but told you that if William didn’t and you changed your mind that you knew where to find him in the future. You made a deal with your brother for a few days after the wedding that he was to pick you up and take you back to the farm. Of course you enlisted your maid to do the packing for you that day so that you wouldn’t be suspected by your parents. But your mother must have suspected something because that night just as you and James were sneaking out towards the carriage your father was standing there waiting.

“Where do you two think you are going?”.

“Nowhere in particular father. Was just going for a late night stroll with my dear sister.” James retorted.

“Don’t lie to me. You are taking her back to that man aren’t you?” He demanded.

“So what if I am?”.

“You were bad enough wanting to marry that woman with no wealth and no title. Now you want your sister to go and marry some old man who killed a man?! I won’t have it.”.

“I don’t care what he has done so long as he cares for y/n and loves her and she loves him. That is all that matters in a marriage to me. Now step aside or you will never see any of your grandchildren ever.” James threatened. 

“Children please! We only want what is best for you!” Your mother sobbed from the front door.

“Then you will let me go to be happy!” You shout.

Your father glared between the both of you as James ushered you into the coach where Stephanie was sitting already. You sighed a sigh of relief as the coach began to move and the journey back home, back to William began.

[moonlightpirate]

Return to the Madding Crowd

Chapter 5: The Letters: No one has heard from you in so long they begin to wonder if you have forgotten about them. Have you?

Part one of your guys Christmas gift 😘 sorry it's a few days late wasn't expecting to get my butt kicked at work so hard haha also sorry it has taken so long for this one to be written!

Taglist: (this was for the last chapter let me know if you want to be added or removed) @nothingbutcloud @thegoldfishbowl @its-just-me-chey

Materlist

Ao3

It was nearly Christmas and neither Bathsheba nor William had heard a word from you. Bathsheba watched the men as they began setting up the Christmas trees around William's house and hoped that maybe getting ready for the ball would be enough of a distraction for him. She knew he was becoming more worried about you and didn’t want to see him do something foolish or see him end up back in jail. 

“What do you think so far?” William inquired, approaching her with a proud smile on his face.

“It looks so lovely. I can’t wait to see how it will look once everything is finished. Have you decided on food yet?” Bathsheba replied.

“Oh my food! Do we know how many people are actually going to come?” William gasped as he realized he had forgotten about feeding his guests.

“We were just in town a few days ago and everyone we spoke to said they would love to come.” Gabriel chimed in. 

“Goodness so a feast is needed. I’ll send my staff out right away!”.

“I’ll head back to the farm and have some of our staff help yours then if we are going to be needing that much food.” Bathsheba offered.

“You are too kind. Thank you.”.

Bathsheba gave William a hug and made her way back to the farm and gathered a few reliable staff members to help Williams with the feast. Once she was done with that she did a lap around the farm to make sure everything was still in good order and ready for the winter months. After she was satisfied she made her way back to the farmhouse where she saw a letter sitting on the table. Anxiously she grabbed it and ripped it open once she saw that it was from you. 

Bathsheba,

Sorry for the delay. Everything is well. My brother is due to get married 12/18 just before Christmas. His bride has kept me beyond busy helping her plan everything for the wedding. I can’t wait for it to be over with. Though my mother keeps fussing over me and one of my brother’s friends who is conveniently single. Pretty sure she is already trying to plan my wedding to him which I do not want. What I want is to return to the farm so badly. I miss all of you so much. Perhaps I will make an escape after this dreaded wedding. Wish me luck. 

Love, Y/N

Bathsheba gasped as she realized that today was the 22nd and the wedding had already happened. She wondered if you would be attempting an escape or not especially since you had been so sure that William was going to propose to you on Christmas. Later that night after supper she showed Gabriel the letter. He read it over and looked up at Bathsheba with a smile.

“The wedding was four days ago……do you think?” Gabriel wondered.

“I wouldn’t put it past her to even just run away and come back here to William. That is if her parents didn’t try to force an engagement on her to that man.”. 

“Do not say a word to William about this letter. It will not do to get his hopes up. He is happy getting ready for this ball. It seems to be enough of a distraction.”.

Bathsheba nodded in agreement as they both went about their night.

Meanwhile at Williams estate:

“Sir, I found a letter for you. It came at such an odd time of day.”.

“Oh. Let me see it.” William held his hand out to take the letter from the help, he gasped and nearly dropped the letter into his soup when he saw it was from you. Quickly he opened it and began to read it trying to hold back his tears.

William,

I am so sorry it has taken so long for me to write. Also I am sorry for just leaving on such short notice. I will do what I can to return. But, I am fairly certain my parents are trying to marry me off. The man seems understanding so I will tell him that I can’t be with him and my heart belongs to another. But dear I beg of you do not come here please. Once this wedding is over and I am no longer needed here I will do whatever I can to return to you. I will let you know if I need your help darling. Keep your eyes open for me around Christmas time.

Lots of love, 

Y/N

William burst into tears as he set the letter down. Could he really hope to see you again in just a few days' time? Or would you be taken from him again? All he knew for certain is that he could not let Bathsheba and Gabriel know that you had written to him. Gently he folded up the letter and stuck it in his coat pocket and continued to eat his dinner. 

The following day everyone continued to prepare for the Christmas party at Williams. William made sure all the decorations were in place and that there was enough food and drink for everyone. Bathsheba and Gabriel did all they could to help William and spent time anxiously wondering and waiting to see if you would appear. When Bathsheba went shopping for herself for a dress for the ball she decided to splurge and get a dress for you just in case you did show up. 

It was Christmas eve and time for the ball. Bathsheba and Gabriel dressed and made their way over to Williams. Before they left, Batsheba laid out the dress she had bought for you on the table with a small note telling you where they were just in case you did show up. William was on edge and beyond anxious pacing around waiting for his guests to arrive. He hoped beyond hope that tonight would be the night that he would finally see you again. As guests began to arrive he put on a happy face and began welcoming people in. His face fell some as he saw Bathsheba and Gabriel by themselves without you but he quickly regained his fake smile. 

“Welcome!”.

“Oh William, it looks magnificent here! There's so many people as well!” Bathsheba exclaimed, hugging him. 

“Thank you! Now go eat, drink, have a good time you guys have deserved it.” William smiled. 

“So have you, dear, make sure you go enjoy yourself some!”.

“I’m the host! I must welcome my guests. Then I can enjoy myself.”.

Gabriel gently pushed Bathsheba in past William before she could protest any further. It was getting a bit late but the party was in full swing and even William himself seemed to be relaxed and enjoying himself. Everyone was dancing or socializing but very clearly having a great time. Bathsheba had just decided that perhaps you weren’t truly coming tonight or maybe at all when the doorman came towards William and whispered something in his ear. The color drained from William's face as he nodded and jumped up looking between Bathsheba and Gabriel in shock. They both looked at him with a questioning look. Nodding he hurried towards the front door. Bathsheba looked towards Gabriel before also springing up and rushing after William. Just as she got to the front door and saw William he stepped aside. 

Bathsheba gasped, “Y/n! You made it! Finally!”.

[moonlightpirate]

I have chapter 2 edited and will probably post it tomorrow (want to reread it one more time.) I have 3 people for my tag list so far! Does anyone else want to be added??? 😊

[moonlightpirate]

Okay just a few things to adjust on my essay. Maybe try to add in a few more words since I'm a wee short on my word count.....but it's due today and I go into work in a few hours so not a lot of time to play unfortunately.