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Chapter Text

In the middle of the night, where the moon shined alongside the stars, a single carriage was stroling down the road. Crickets sang their song as you looked at the window. The quiet of the night helped you evade the frantic thoughts of your mind. Your chaperon facing you, searching the best words to try and convince you that maybe this isn't what you wanted, that you shouldn't carry the weight of the family's burdden on your shoulder alone. But in the dead of the night, only the crickets voiced their song.

You just returned from the Duke's mansion. It was as magneficent as rumors referenced. The mansion expanded wide and large. A garden adorned the front and back, a little unmaintained, but kept simple. The staff was quite low for a Dukedom. You would imagine dozens of maids and butlers, countless chefs to cook the most exquisite food. But no. While visiting the mansion, you rarely saw anyone else.

Unfortunatly, you weren't able to meet the Duke. Oh no, he was far too busy. For what a Duke would have time for you, his beloved wife.

Chapter Text

Today was certainly a long day. You were now married. This weird thought still hasn't settled in. You were in a carriage with your husband, Duke Alphonse Ambrose Webmond. He sat opposite of you, looking out the window.

You studied the harsh angles of his features. His green eyes were a mirror of the green scenery outside of the carriage, framed by beautifull lashes. His hair shone like gold even in the darkness of the night, the moon being your only source of light.
Even if he posessed all oh this beauty, it did not diminish his cold attitude or his indimidating stature. Rumors circulated of his unattainable standards and his innacapacity of forming a polite smile. A smirk that sent shivers down one's spine out of fear was more known than the sound of his genuine laugh.

You met quite a few times before your marriage. It was always in polite and neither of you were eager to share your thoughts. This resulted in many situations of silence. It seems like nothing changed.
You didn't marry out of love. Of course not. Your family was on the brink of being bankrupt and he needed a wife. An easy contract. Marriage was after all just a contract.

The day Duke Alphonse came to you with this proposal, you were honestly quite shocked. You would think he ought to choose someone of higher status, but he went to you. When you anounced the news to your family, it was taken with nervous glances. Your parents worried about you going into a loveless marriage for the sake of keeping the family's wealth.

Months went by and you successfully fooled your family into believing you were not going into a loveless marriage. Everyone was happy. And so you were as well.

The carriage stopped and your new husband came out and helped you out of the carriage. You took his hand before setting foot outside. He gently held yours, making careful you wouldn't miss a step.
With a quick "Follow me", you walked behind him as you entered the manor. The gardens looked the same as every visit you attended. It seemed as if nothing has changed, but your life certainly did. This is now your home. Or at least, you should make it your home.

As you passed the main entrace, you clearly did not feel at home. It was full of luxury yet you kept thinking how out of place you were in this mansion. Nothing felt comforting or made you relax. An uneasy feeling of having to fake yourself always crept behind you all the way until your husband stoped in front of a door.

A bedroom door.

You knew what happened after marriage. What now everyone expected of you. But were you ready for that step? Certainly not. Everything was changing so fast, your heart started beating faster out of stress. Maybe it wasn't too late to runaway. You have already been here, you know the way out.

"Here are your chambers, a maid will attend to your needs in the morning. I will now take my leave. Goodnight."

You were left alone in your now new chambers. Relief washed over you as you sat in the nearby chair.

At least he had the decency to leave you alone. Being alone is what you needed, not the consumation of a marriage. You needed to familiarise yourself with the new place, your new home. You weren't here as a visitor anymore.

You were quick to ready yourself to bed, the sheets comfortable, so comfortable in fact that you fell asleep just as your head encountered the soft pillows.

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Chapter Text

The morning sun rose like any other day. But you didn't wake up the same as yesterday. You were married, and to a duke that is. The duke was kind enough to leave you alone last night. The marriage was simple and straight foward like you planned. After all, there will never be feelings between you two. This was like the definition of a legal marriage. A contract. You willingly chose this path to save your family from ruin. Your parents would have never let you sacrifice yourself for the good of the family so you had to fake your relationship with the duke. For the most part, he was very romantic and respectful. Of course at first, his harsh personality startled you, but deep down he was a good man. Which was more than some men ever achieved.

A knock on the door brought you out of your deep thoughts. It took you a while until you reliased you had to invite them in.

A maid around your age walked in with her gaze down. Her chestnut hair was kept in a simple braid and dress for a maid but it still reflected the luxury of the duchy.

"Greetings to your grace, I hope you had a peacfull sleep this night. If you encountered any discomfort let me know right away for I will be your personal maid."

You smiled politely, "Thank you, I have slept wonderfully. May I ask for your name?"

The maid looked startled for a bit but replied quickly, "Marie, your grace"

"Marie, would you be so kind to fetch some clothes for today?"

"Of course your grace. I was tasked shortly after the duke appointed me as your maid to help you get prepared. You will have breakfeast together."

You nodded along, letting Marie help you getting ready. Thankfully, she didn't seem to mind the silence as you proceeded to your morning routine, permitting you to lose yourself in your thoughts.
It was a bit weird how the duke waited for you to begin breakfeast. You didn't expect anything from him but the thought that you wouldn't be completly alone for breakfeast, after spending each morning with smiles and laughs around the table with your youger sisters and brothers, would have been too much for you. You didn't regret your choice of course. Now your family could keep the house and belongings and they wouldn't worry about every penny spent. Your siblings wouldn’t be forced into loveless marriages only for the money.
What left your heart a bit miserable was the fact that you had loved another, Hughes Lewis. He was the son of a viscount with a warming smile and too popular with the ladies. He could charm himself out of everything, as he did for your heart. Alas he was indeed a bit too popular with the ladies and when he knew of your poor family and that you wouldn't  give him some more intimate moments, he went to another richer woman. You were heartbroken after that. Luckily, only you and Hughes were aware of the courtship and the matter was set privately. Hughes was just a fleeting memory of the naive girl you once were. After this, you didn't think love was what you need. Money was. And so all of this masquerade with the duke was set in place, making you the new duchess. The prosperity and joy of your family was.

Marie finished the last touch of your makeup and with you looking more luxurious than you were used to, you went to see the duke.

The manor was well kept but the lack of staff was evident as per your past observations. Marie led you to the dinning room before leaving. It was large with a chandelier hanging from the ceiling. The duke was seated at the oposite of the table and you saw you were at the other extremity. The duke watched you with the same intense gaze that never failed to send pleasurable tingles on your back. When you were seated, the duked announce, "Bring the dishes."
A servant brought your plates and uncovered the silver plate. A delicious mouth-wattering dish with eggs was served. You eagerly started digging in. When you briefly looked up, you caught the duke's gaze and found a content gleem before it went to it's indifferent expression. The breakfeast was quiet, making you long for the livelyhood of your family company's.

"I hope your rooms were adequate", the duke broke the silence.

"Yes your grace, I have been more than comfortable so far."

A pleased smirk appeared just as quickly as it vanished, making you question if you truly were halucinating expressions on the expressionless duke.

"I have some buisness to take care off, feel free to explore the manor in my abscence. I have already notified all staff to report to you now. I trust you can take care of the managment of the manor?"

"Yes your grace", the duke nodded at your response.

"Excellent, I will be back tonight, do not await my return for you to eat."

He stood up, his plate already cleaned. He walked towards you and when you were within reach, he took your hand with such gentleness, outcharactered from the persona of the scary duke, and kissed delicately the back of your fingers while keeping your eyes on him. He whispered, "Please, call me Al."

Your heart was beating so fast you didn't know how, or if, you could stop it. He then left, leaving you feeling hot with embaressment and a heart that just wouldn't stop.

You quickly finished your meal before the butler announced he would accompany you for visiting the manor as well as showing you the ropes on how to handle the manor.

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The manor was as you predicted, maintained to the barest minimum. You would need to add some decorations and maybe hire new staff members to help the other workers with their tasks. The project you were most excited to undertake was the garden. Currently, there was no flowers, some of the plants were dehydrated and the lawn was not properly cut. You could already imagine plans in your mind to turn the garden into a more beautiful place to stroll around.

During your visit, the butler explained how the duke isn't necesssarly at home most of the time and if so, he would be kept in his study. The duke was constantly working and everything he did was related to his duties as a duke. His neglect of his home was concerning the housekeeping staff. When you met them, they were overjoyed to the new head of the mansion, looking foward to the new changes. You were currently in bed, turning right and left, unable to sleep. Deciding that you wouldn't sleep anyways, a midnight walk would help you clear your thoughts.

The halls were quiet and empty. With a candle and your night shift, you began walking. The manor at night was different then it was at daylight. You began walking and just before you thought you could go back, a faint melody of the piano picked at your curiosity.

Following the sound of the music, you found yourself to the drawing room. There seated at the piano was the duke, his long fingers gracefully played the keys while you peaked at the door, not wanting to interrupted him. He was in only a loose white linen shirt and some high waisted pants that accentuated the contrast between his large shoulder width and his small waist, his long hair loosely tied behing his back. The tune made you relax, each sound making you realise the melancolic feelings you tried to mask all day. Just for now. Just for one moment you could let your feelings out freely.

Once the song was over, you saw his shoulders relax and he tilted his head back, letting a breath out.

"You should come out of the door."

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Chapter Text

One year ago...

Another ball, another evening alone. This wasn't a surprising turn of events. Ladies gigling and dancing with their partners, gossiping the latest scandals while the gentlemens looked at the young ladies with either passion or disinteresst. You were the latter. Everyone knows the struggles of your family situation so they either ignore you or politely include you into conversations. Some gentlemens tried to seduce you thinking they wouldn't face any consequences after they had what they wanted for you, but after Hughes, you had a keen eye on who was genuine. Thankfully, you had great childhood friends, Emma Hastings and Thomas Capell, who made these nights more bearable by keeping you company. Of course, they both couldn't constantly be at your side, Thomas often getting into discussions with the gentlemen and Emma dancing with her many suitors. With the longing glances Thomas gave Emma, it was clear he had feelings for her, though Emma's father might not approve due to his rank. Both you and Thomas were first born children of viscounts while Emma was the only child of the Count of Hastings.

All of you were invited this evening to the Duchess of York which you were familiar with. You and Emma had tea in her presence and she took quite a likeing to you at your surprise. This ball was in the honor of her grandaughter and for old time sake, she invited you. You were standing close to the wall, thinking how wonderfull it would be to glide on the dance floor when the usher announced the arrival of another guest.

"Entering Duke of Webmond"

The room went quiet as the duke apeared at the top of the stairs, his golden hair shinning as brightly as the gold addoring his outfit. It was the first time you ever saw him. He rarely even went to events. The duke went down the stairs with confidence and elegence, his eyes were scanning the crowd and when he went to greet the duchess, the crowd went back to the way it was.

"He is quite intimidating isn't he?", Thomas said appearing behind you.

"Have you met him?", you responded.

"A few times but only for buisness, he seems to live only for it."

You saw gentlemens trying to discuss buisness and most probably try to gain favor with the duke but obviously failing at his intimitating nature.

"I have never seen him smile in all the times I saw him, even the success of his buisness isn't enough."

"Don't be ridiculous Thomas, I'm certain the duke has emotions."

A playfull smirk graced Thomas's features, "I'm not so sure about that, I saw him make grown men cry in some buisness meetings. He apparently has more enemies than friends."

You were about to reply when you saw the duke himself walk straight to you and Thomas.

"He is coming here!?"

"It apears so, shit act normall"

“I woul if you would watch your language Thomas, were at a ball remember?”

As the duke came closer, you saw him better up close. His handsomness struck you first, making your mind blank except how the soft his lips would feel. Damn this mind of yours for thinking this way. You and Thomas were quick to greet him as he reached both of you.

"Sir Capell, congratulations on your recent success, I hope we can collaborate in the future more often."

Thomas seemed taken aback by the compliment, probably the highest anyone has ever recieved by the terrifying duke.

His eyes then set on yours and you couldn't stop thinking how his deep green forest eyes surrounded by perfect lashes were captivating. The both of you stayed for a moment longer than necessary for Thomas to notice a change of atmosphere but the duke was quick to snap back from his thoughts and offered his hand which you took.

His eyes never left yours as he gently bowed and kissed your long sleeved gloved hands on your knuckles. You couldn't be more thankful of your gloves since if his lips kissed your bare skin... Your knees would've buckled right away.

Wait. Snap out out of this. He is a DUKE. The DUKE OF WEBMOND. Your feelings do not matter with him. Even if he does make your heart beat faster than any other men.

"It is a pleasure to meet you my lady, may I inquire of your name?"

He left his bow to stand up straight, him towering over you. With his tall stature and his sharp feature, it was no wonder he was feared by many. Money wasn't his only source of power. He was still holding your fingers in an unexpected gentlness.

As you introduced yourself, the duke let go of your hand. A cold shower rushed over you when you found a culculating glint in his eyes.

"Have a wonderfull evening my lady. Thomas", and with a goodbye nod to you and Thomas, the duke left.

And that was how you first met Al.

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Present time

You waited a bit before coming out. Staying behind the door, you closed your eyes, cursing your curiosity  and wondering if making a run for it would be a better alternative than facing him right now.

You finally took the courage of pushing the door a bit wider so the duke could see you. His broad shoulders seemed to relax upon seeing you, otherwise his expression did not change.

"Come here", he moved to one side of the piano bench so you could sit beside him.

You walked to the piano, putting the candle you were holding on a table. When you sat down, the proximity of how you were was even more noticibale. Your shoulders were almost touching and you could see the way his chest was riding up and down with the rythm of his breathing.

"I thought you abandoned the piano your grace", you asked as you recalled your past conversation during your courtship.

"I did. It is now only a small hobby I perform at night. I do not like to play for other people"

You went silent as you remembered your conversation, feeling guilty that you forgot those important details.

"Did you like it?", he broke the silence.

"What?"

"The music", he wasn't looking at you but you noticed the faintest red on the tip of his ears. Maybe you were seeing wrong since the far away candle and the moon and stars were the only source of light.

"It was very beautiful."

He looked at you and tingles ran down your spine. He looked etheral in the moonlight. Even with his loose linen shirt, it did nothing to hide his broad chest and shoulders and small waist. You wouldn't lie that impure thoughts were running through your mind at this moment.

"I can show you."

"What."

"The piano."

"I thought you didn't like playing for other people, I do not want for you to feel obligated-"

"You are not other people, I'll guide you."

You were confused as he brought you to his lap. Positioning your fingers beneath his, he began playing the piano by guiding your fingers. You could feel his breath on your neck as you felt his presence evrywhere, on your neck, your hands, your back and you even felt something hard on your back though you decided to ignore the source of it. What you were trying to hold back was the wetness you began to feel in between your legs, hoping he wouldn’t notice.

When the song ended, his hands were still over yours. You turned your head to look at him, your eyes met his and time seemed to stop. You couldn't tell who was leaned in first but your lips were so close you could almost feel his breath on yours. His hands left yours, one settled on your waist while the other came to cup your cheek.

He wasn't moving, letting you decide if you would grant him a taste from your lips for the third time. Conflicting feelings were holding you back, one part screamed to loose yourself in him but the other was saying that you weren't ready, that all of this was created on some fake arrangment for the benefit of both parties. Was it safe to bring those feelings you were trying so hard to ignore florish? You knew you wouldn't be his first but what about you? All you knew was Hughes and he rejected you because you refused him. You do remember how easily it was to loose yourself to the duke's kisses, that was your first after all. The second time was at your wedding which was brief but still made electricity run through your veins.

You caved in to your insecurities, instead of leaning your lips to his you rested your forhead on his.

"I'm sorry", you didn't know why you were apologizing.

"There is nothing to be sorry for, my lo-", he abrubtly stopped the phrase making you wonder what he was going to say.

"It is late, I'll accompany you to your chambers", he helped you to get on your feet.

"That is not necessary your grace, I know the way around."

He had a small guilty look on his face as he nodded. You left as quickly as someone who didn't want to appear eager to leave did. You already felt embarasses enough as it is.

And with a good night, you left the duke in the room.

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You haven't seen the duke since last night as he had buisness to attend. You decided that going to the gardens was better to occupied your mind.

When you were at your desk, organizing the supplies for the garden, you recieved a letter of Marquise of Drumcott was asking you for a tea party. The Marquise of Drumcott was as good for making tea than in her art of gossiping.

You could only accept the Marquise proposal since her husband was a buisness partner to the duke. There was only one thing left to do.

Prepare for battle.

Not a real one of course.

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Chapter Text

You looked yourself in the mirror, unsure if your outfit was your style. Since becoming Duchess of Webmond, your belongings became significantly more luxurious, including your garments. Silk garments that flatters your frame beautifully into this elegant look a Duchess would posess.

Marie finished The final touches of your outfit and took a step back, a smile on her face at how proud she is of the work she’d done on today’s look.

“Your Grace this is splendid! However I must admit I can’t find the perfect necklace with this outfit, I mean the perfect amount of shine and colour-“

“I think I can help with that”, a smooth voice came from the door after a few knocks.

The Duke came into the room and his step seemed to fauter once you turned around, the slightest gap at his mouth and his eyes looked like they didn’t get their usual sleep from last night.

“Could I get a moment with you dearest?”

Your heart seemed to pick up it’s pace at the thought of you two alone, memories from last night flooded your mine. His embrace, his eyes, his hands on your hips. How you longed to feel them once more, but the reality of it, that your marriage is a fake one fell like a cold unpleasant shower.

Nodding at Marie with a small smile, you let her know to leave you two alone.

A silence, heavy with unsaid words on both parties hung in the air. Unable to continue on like this, you decided to break it first.

“Did you sleep well your Grace?” Did you sleep well? DID YOU SLEEP WELL!? What is your mind even doing.

“Yes I did thank you, I hope you slept well too”

You didn’t. You just kept turning over, hoping a knock would sound at your door, that you wouldn’t be alone in bed.

Another silence set over the room.

“You look lovely”

“Thank you your Grace”

“Please”, his eyes softened, “ call me Al.”

You didn’t want to. Once you start, you fear it will be impossible to stop, to go back behind the walls you have built, because with each moment passed with him, one after another, they all crumble down. But alas, your heart triumphed against your better judgement.

“Thank you, Al.”

A pleasing smile set over his features, triggering a strange sense of hapiness within you.

As he walks towards you, you start to notice the beautifully decorated box in his hands. The ones that were wrapped around yo- BACK TO THE SUBJECT BRAIN PLEASE.

He opens the box, a beautifull necklace where the art is subtle, but the jewles would still make the wearer shine.

“I’ve noticed how you seem uncomfortable wearing some of the extravagant jewels, may I?”

You could only nod. Turning your back so he could put the necklace on, you believed your heart would stop the unnecessary accrobatics it was performing. On the contrary, it only reminded you of last night.

The necklace gently went over your head, the cool metal brushing against your collarbone. Pleasant shivers went down your spine when feeling his breath down your neck. You inconsciously leaned into him, his soft warmth comforted you after a sleepless night. His hands, once the necklace settled, gently brushed over your shoulders as he leaned in to whisper in your ear.

“You truly take my breath away each time my eyes lay upon you, but it was always yours to begin with wasn’t it dearest?”

As soon as the blink of an eye, he steped away, giving you some space.

“I will see you at super.”

And just like that he was gone. What a chance that is or else he would have heard your heart trying to escape your chest.

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Marquose of Drumcott was as famous for her art in gossiping than her recurring tea parties with other ladies in high society. Unfortunetly, Emma or the Duchess of York wouldn’t be present, so you must endure the snide remarks alone.

You could have chosen not to go, but giving how the Maquise husband was doing buisness with your fake husband, you didn’t want to undermine the buisness of your fake husband.

The Marquise of Drumcott was quite generous in gossiping about your situation and commenting on your family status. While your courtship with the Duke, she put the journals and pamphlets to shame.

Arriving at the mansion, you were led to the salon where other ladies were presant. Small talk was made with compliments on the style of each other while trying to undermind one’s extravagant outfit in the hopes of achieving the highest compliments as more people arrived. You went to greet the host first. The Marquise did not change in the small greeting you two shared, always so passive agressive. You noticed her critical gaze over your too simple outfit for your newfound status, followed by a snife smirk. You only smiled in response, choosing that this was not the moment to give her a piece of her own medecine.

You conversed with other ladies, sharing advice, compliments and some small talk here and there.

“Oh how splendid I think everyone is here!” A high pitched voice managed to interrupt all of the conversations that could only belong to the Marquise.

Everyone went to their assigned seat at the long rectangle table. The Marquise was seated at the head of the table. You remarked how the seating arrangment was set as the higher class was seated closer to the Marquise while the lower class were near the end…. Where you were seated.

Swallowing your anger, you decided to focus on the ladies near you. They were genuienly pleasant to converse with, each with different topics and anecdotes to share. You were, for once, Once your manor is ready to recieve guests, you made a mental note to invite them.

Finally the tea arrived.

This time, you couldn’t let the disrespect slide. The teacup was clearly dirty. The tea was badly brewn. And it was clear how the other ladies next to you didn’t get the same treatment. Pitifull gaze fell on you and that was it. If the Marquise wanted to battle, then so be it.

With one swift movement, you stood up from your chair, making sure everyone heard the harsh scraping against the floor. Silence fell upon the table, but you only took your time smoothing out your dress. You slowly turned towards the head of the table where the Marquise was seated.

“Good grief Duchess, what is the cause of this behaviour!?” Of course she had the guts to act oblivious.

“Oh? Duchess? Am I really?”

Confused eyes were the only answer given.

“Oh pardon me, with the way I’ve been treated, I believed myself anything but a Duchess”, you chuckled mockingly.

“Oh but don’t fret over me Marquise”, you picked up the chiped dirty teacup and began walking towards the hostess, followed by anxious eye,” I understand that you are unable to recieve a Duchess properly”

You set the cup loudly on the table, making most of the other ladies flinch and some of the tea spilling onto the table. You kept the Marquise’s fearfull gaze as you took her still untouched teacup and drank everything, thankfull that the tea wasn’t too hot.

“Thank you for your hospitality, it was truly memorable.”

With a greetings to the other nice ladies, you left to return to the manor. Hoping internally that you didn’t damage your husband buisness.

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Many worries passed through your mind while you stood in front of the dining room door. You were afraid of facing your husband, knowing he heard of what happened at the tea party. Did his buisness take a big hit? Would he be mad at you? Your family was strict on being polite in order to have good buisness relations, was Al like this? You never did that before so you were in uncharted grounds here.

“Aren’t you going in dearest?”, the voice behind you surprised you, jumping in surprise to find Al not in the dining room but behind you.

At a lost for words, you tried scrambling the rest of your brain that was working for something to say while the other part was screaming at how handsome he looked, whilst still reminding you of how his touch felt so right.

His gaze did that thing when it becomes softer around you each time since you two began your courtship. He opened the door for you and also pulled your chair for you. The table was quite long, being each on the far end made you feel lonely compared to how crowded your family was a the dinner table.

To your surprised, Al picked up his own dish, utensils and glass and set them up at one of the seat besides you.

“I would like to be closer to my wife my dear, is this not normal?”

You averted your eyes, afraid he’s going to notice how much his words made you flustered.

From then, he asked you how the gardens were coming along. You were more happy to start discussing your plans for it. He asked questions you were eager to answer, not noticing how passionate you looked while talking. He could spend an eternity of hearing you talk and share what makes you happy.

It wasn’t until you noticed you were at the desert course of the evening that you talked most of the time. It brought a small embarassed feeling because normally, you were the one listening. It was nice however, someone who engaged in conversation topics you could ramble on and on while still being intrested.

“I actually have something to tell you”, your face lost that shine to it, turning his mood in a concerned one.

“I… kind of misbehaved at the Marquise of Drumcott tea party today..?”

Your husband, surprisingly, began to laugh.

“Oh hahaha yes I did hear about that I think, the Drumcott’s are cutting off their buisness with us”, he chuckled… chuckled, and upon seeing your confused expression, he showed you that smile, “I know you dearest, you wouldn’t have done something like that unless they disrespected you. If they spend the trouble sending me that boring letter than my only opinion of you is that you did well.”

“But…. Wouldn’t it affect your buisness badly? What if things go bad it would be my fault all because I couldn’t-“

“My love,” he took your hand gently, “if my buisness fails, I will take responsibility, do not worry about anything. If someone disrespects my wife, they diserve whatever you see fit on how to handle their behaviour and I will always offer you my support.”

There it was. Another moment where you kept staring into each other eyes, a mutual attraction coursing through both of you. The need to touch, to feel, to kiss was only getting stronger, your walls you built around yourself crumbling with each moment spent together. His thumb gently caresses your fingers as he held your gaze.

“May I accompany you to your chambers?”

You nodded and, hands still interlocked, you two began to walk, enjoying the silence and the presence of the other.

Al was the only person you really feel comfortable around. It was different than the feeling with you family or friends… even with your first love Hughes, although you started wondering if you really loved him when you compare with how you are with Al. Maybe you should confess how you really feel, how real this has become for you. Maybe the faster he rejects you, the faster you could move on. It’s decided, you will tell him how you feel once you reach your chambers.

Standing in front of your chambers, neither of you wanted to leave. You tried finding the courage to tell him, but it seemed you doubted yourself once more.

“Would you like going to a ball tomorrow night?”

“Yes, it would be nice”, you could only respond.

“Wonderfull, have lovely dream my dear”, he kissed your hand softly before leaving you at your door.

Tomorrow. Tomorrow you’ll tell him everything.

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Chapter Text

All day you couldn’t focus.

Only one thought in your mind overshadowed everything else and that would be your confession of your feelings to Al. Should it be outwrite “I love you” or perhaps add more details and make it more romantic? Will he even like it if it’s romantic? What about the time and place. Certainly it should be when you two are alone since you wouldn’t bare doing this in public. You will be seeing Al this evening so the wait seems like an eternity.

You tried focusing on the budget you wrote for the garden. Things seems to go to plan and you need to revisit the grounds for some mesurements. You even asked Marie to prepare you a garderning outfit so you could contribute to the manual labor. It was your garden after all.

But the garden wasn’t just yours, the whole mansion was now that you are married to Al… what a funny situation, confessing to your husband that you love him. Now that you are married, you wanted to feel at home here… with him.

A knock came from your office, forcing you out of your thoughts, you tried to look as if you were working and granting the permission to enter to whomever was behind the doors.

Marie came in, her usual contagious smile on while holding what appears to be a small piece of paper. Noticing closer, you could see a little bounce to her step and a glint in her eyes that made you know exactly what was going on.

“My Lady, you wouldn’t believe what just happened!”

“Oh I think I have a few thoughts in mind.”

“Look at what I recieved!”

She handed to you the small piece of paper. Your eyes scanned the words as they confirmed it to you, a love letter from the stable man. Intresting.

“Hmmm, a date in the evening? Without a chaperone?”, you teased her as she began to become flustered.

“No I promise there wouldn’t be anything improper My Lady.”

You chuckled and gave her a reassuring smile.

“I’ve met this gentlemen a few times, he is very nice, I hope you enjoy your time”, she beemed at your approval, but you could see that in her next words, she was uncertain if you would agree.

“I was hoping maybe to finish my work a bit early to prepare myself… I hope this is ok with you, I will be there once you return from your ball to help you of course and Violet can replace me-“

“Marie,” you stopped her nervous rambling,” go have fun.”

She gave you a gratefull smile as she left the office while you tried hard to focus on work instead of deep green eyes.

.

.

.

You looked at your reflection and actually liked your apperance for once. The ball gown hugged your frame perfectly while the colours matched your skin tone like they were made for you. The jewlery made you look more elegant and more like… a Duchess. A smile came unknowingly on your face. Before, you were uncertain if you were fit for this role, but since meeting Al, you became more confident in your abilities.

You went to the mansion’s entrance where the carriage awaited. Your step faltered a bit once you saw your husband waiting for you. His long hair in his usual loose ponytail, attached by a ribbon that matched his outfit. It was then that you noticed how your outfits matched, making the both of you share an amused look.

He offered his gloved hand to help you into the carriage and kissed the tips of your fingers.

“You are radiant tonight my dear, you put all of these jewles to shame.”

“I hope I didn’t leave you waiting too long”

“No, I can wait all night if I can be graced with your presence for the rest of the night”, his sweet smile melted your inside as you tried to look out the window, afraid he’s going to see just how much his words affect you.

For a moment, silence was held inside the carriage, but after a while, natural conversation began. Talking about passions, worries, jokes, it was natural and you felt happy.

”I know how much it can be tiring at the ball, let me know when you want to leave”, Al mentioned.

“Wouldn’t that just be impolite?”

“Nonesense, if you are not enjoying yourself and are forcing to make conversation, hold my forearm that accompanies you with your free hand, it will be our signal”, you nodded your thanks.

Arriving at the ball, you first greeted the hosts before joining the other guests. The conversations were the usual buisness like talk. Al often included you in the conversations, after all, you did help him for a while, it was one of the reasons for your fake marriage, so he held your opinion in high regards.

It was a while since you were with the guest and Al noticed right away how you perked at the waltz that was debuting, one of your favourites.

“Pleasure to talk with you gentlemen, ladies. I will now take my wife dancing if it pleases you my dear.”

You smiled back, letting him guide you to the dance floor. His hand holding yours while the other rested against your shoulder blades. You thanked that he was wearing gloves, fearing that his naked touch might ignite you fully. Your bodies were so close, you did not break eye contact. His lips were just there, enticing you, reminding you how soft they feel. While your gaze was set on his lips, his eyes watched you with heat in them. You were so tempting, he knew you only married him because the two of you made an agreement, and once he realised his own feelings, he didn’t want you to feel preassured. So he will keep suporting you no matter what life throws at the both of you.

The song ended, snapping you two back to reality. For the rest of the evening, there was an unspoken silence settled between you two. The attraction ypu felt during your waltz was real and you were uncertain how you should proceed from there.

This was getting too much for you, your feet hurt from the heals and you started to maybe proceed with your plan to confess. Maybe not doing it in public, so you put your free hand on Al’s forearm to give him the signal you were tired. To others, it seemed like a loving touch from a wife to her husband, but Al was quick to excuse the both of you, saying he has important work for tomorrow morning and you should get going.

The silence followed you even in the carriage. You gathered all of the courage you had left to begin your point.

“Al?”

“Hmm? Yes darling?” Curse him and his sweet names, they almost made you forget what you wanted to say.

“Is this still fake to you?” his head snaped back to your direction, weighting carefully on where this was going. Did you notice how his gaze softens when you enter the room? How he drops his cold facade and gives you glimpses of himself none see? Was he so weak for you that it makes you uncomfortable?

“What if it isn’t?”, he switched seats to sit besides you instead of facing you,” what if I want to call you my wife in private, what if I want you to call me by my name becauseeach time you do you make me the most happiest I’ve been.”

“Al-“, he sighs, caressing your cheek tenderly, making you stop in what you wanted to say.

“And what if, darling, I want to taste those lips of yours that haunts my dreams..?”, his face came closer and you seemed to forget the simplest form on how to breath,” Can I my dear? Could you let me kiss you once more?”

Your audible yes broke down all self control he had as he set his lips on yours. His hands gently cupped your face as he kissed you tenderly, expressing everything words couldn’t. Your hand rested gently against his torso, fisting the material, afraid he was going to pull away.

He deepened the kiss, making your body feel hotter and a wetness began leaking in your undergarments. Your thighs squeezed together trying to relieve that ache. The kiss was getting more passionate by the secound, one of his hands began to caress your neck before his mouth left yours to follow the trail his hand left, leaving hot kisses all over your neck.

“You asked if everything is fake for me.. does this seem fake to you darling?” He wispered in your ear before taking your mouth once more in a passionate kiss. Your head became light and fuzzy as he continued to tease his tongue on your lips. You let him in, his tongue teasing you more.

The abrupt stop of the carriage was like a cold shower and a warning before a knock sounded on the door before it opened. You hoped you didn’t look as dishiveled as you felt like, your body still hung up on the kiss.

Al stepped out first, casting a cold glare at the coachman before offering his hand for you with a soft gaze.

You offered him a smile as you stepped down, the butler came out the mansion.

“Your Grace”, he said while addressing Al, “Firstly, I hope you enjoyed the ball. Secoundly, the buisness letter you awaited arrived not long ago.”

This seemed to sour Al’s mood more. His hand still held yours as he kissed them gently. Go rest my dear, we will talk more tomorrow, I hope you can forgive me I have to go.”

You tried to not to seem to disapointed. You did see that you needed time to process what just hapened in the carriage.

Chapter Text

The crackling of the fire at the end of the room and the crickets outside were the only noises that filled the empty space. Sitting at your cosmetic table, watching your reflexion while you tried to process tonights events.

You danced with your husband. It wasn't like the other dances that felt forced and mechanical. The proximity of his body to yours, the familiar smell of old books from all the time he spent in his study and his breath tickling your ear while he whispered to you. Oh yes, your body remembered that very well. Your heart hasn't stoped dancing. It was still beating frantically each time your mind wanders back to it.

Oh how you wished the waltz would have been longer, to feel his arms around you again. But even if the dance was a wonderfull memory to cherish, the one in the carriage would be part of every fantasy you have when your hands are between your legs.

As you starred at yourself in the mirror, your eyes felled on your lips and the sudden memory of the kiss made your lips tingle. The kiss was soft and gentle, passionate and hot. You brought your fingers to your lips, still feeling the gost of his touch.

Burrying your face in your hands with a groan, you cursed yourself to not have been more direct. He did kiss you, fervently at that, but was that a no? That he too doesn’t want this marriage to be fake?

The room was no longer lonely as your bedchamber maid came to prepare you for bed. Marie's curls bounced hapily as she walked over. A smile gracing her features. At least someone had a great evening.

"I hope you had a great time m'lady", her gaze was dreamy, as if she wasn't quite complementing your soirée, but reliving her’s. It made you happy how she enjoyed her romance night.

"It was well thank you Mary", she hummed happily while gently taking of your jewlery," but I think your night was better."

Her gaze quickly met yours and at the sight of your small and encouraging smile, she felt at ease and began to ramble about the stable boy and how he prepared the most romantic rendez-vous, with the help of the chefs of course.

As she kept on telling you of how perfect her date was, she seemed to get happier and happier. Before long, you were quite ready for bed. As she was leaving, she ran up to you and gave you a big hug. It might have been inappropriate, but you returned her hug. She was a great company to have in this lonely world at first. You began to care for her as if she was your own family.

"I am gratefull for your kindness and genirosity m'lady, I do not know how to pay you back."

"Do not worry about such rediculous thoughts, I am happy to help out a great friend of mine." If it was even possible, her smile widened even more as she whished you goodnight and left.

And there you were alone, once more.

You wondered if one day, your marriage could make you feel like Mary's and Oliver's romance. Would your husband willing to spend time with you like in your courtship? When the two of you faked the picnics, the walks in the park, riding… you wondered if you could redo them but not with an end of a fake marriage.

But would he feel as heartstrucked as you felt? Do he feel his heart racing in his chest at the mere thought of you? He was successful, rich, good looking and once you have a glimpse of his smile, you would seek to bring it out more. On the other hand you were… well you. Insecurities began to surface again as you worried maybe he doesn’t feel the same way.

A sigh escaped your lips. What you needed now was rest. Just as you were about to pull the covers of your bed, a soft knock on the door came.

Puzzled, you wondered what Mary could need.

"Is everything okay Mar-", your next words gone as you saw the person at the door when you opened it.

His tall frame was standing quietly, his body slightly turned as if he had secound thoughts. But your eyes met and it took you a while to come back to your senses.

"How can I help you My Lord?", maybe you should stop calling him Al, put some distance between you two. He seemed to froze at the name and a part of you regretted your choice.

His eyes drifted to your lips and quickly diverted back up.

"I-", your eyes searched his, wondering what would come next, "I- could I come in?"

His eyes gazing elsewhere waiting to see your response. He got out of his evening attire for a more loose outfit. A linen shirt floated on him and was tucked at the waist of his pants, accsuenting his small waist compared to his broad shoulders while making your mind drift to indecent thoughts. Quickly to shut them out, you steped aside, letting him in.
He stood at the center of the room, eyes scanning everywhere and the finaly settling on you.

Silence seemed the new way the two of you were conversing as you and your husband stood inside your room. Alone.

That triggered your imagination, drifting to one of the books you read late at night. You tried hard to keep your thoughts from going into that direction you tried diverting the attention.

“Did you want to say something?”

“I- …”, he seemed afraid of his next words, afraid you are going to hate him for it, to turn your back to him and he would never be able to hear your laugh he so dearly cherished, “ Were you serious back there, in the carriage?”

Now your mind was in chaos. Does that mean you did a mistake? What happens now do you confess? You were at a loss for words.

“Dearest… I’ve thought about it… about us,” your breath hitched, impatient for the next words that will come out, “I’ve done my best to not let my feelings get out but you’ve made it so hard not to love you, to cherish you..”

“Love…?”, his eyes softened, a small smile accompanied by a sigh.

“Yes dearest… I think you need to know.. I love you. From the day I saw you, you’ve been a part of my everyday thoughts. I see the beauty of your joy, your smile, your eyes as one see the beauty of the sunset. I always find myself seeking your laugh how a mere flower follows the sun. I know how we started our relationship as a fake one but my feelings are real. I do not want to preassure you into something you don’t want to be in and I will follow your decision. If you decide to rip apart my heart I will give it to you by my own hands. No matter what… I’ll always be there for you if you need me.” He paused, trying to read your shocked state if he messed up. By how you did not respond he imagined the worst.

“You do not owe me anything dearest… I will make sure to not be in your way so you won’t feel comfortable. I’ll take my lea-“

“Al”, he stoped in his tracks to the door and faced you at the sound of his name.

“It isn’t fake to me too.”

There. You finally said it. A weight seemed to lift off your shoulders and relief ran through both of you. He walked back to you, and this time, the silence was filled with unspoken words that you two understood.

His hand came up to softly cup your cheek, eyes drifting to your lips and again to your eyes. He leaned in close and stoped.

"Can I kiss you again my love?"

"Yes"

And with your response, your lips finally met. It began soflty, your lips pressing against his, his thumb slowly caressing your cheek.

You melted against him, his free hand cuping the other side of your face as he deepened the kiss even more. It quickly became passionate as his tongue grazed your lips. You were quick to follow his lead as your tongues met in a hot kiss. Your hands rested against his shoulders, feeling his hard muscles through his linen shirt.

You had to come up for air, cursing the need to breath. His mouth kissed the corner of yours before leaving a trail of hot and tingling trail of kisses to your neck. Your hands began to fist his shirt creating more wrinkles but none of you cared.

One of his hands came on your waist as the other moved to the junction of your neck and the back of your head. He nipped, licked and kissed your neck, taking his sweet time. He sucked on the spot that drew a sharp moan from you that made him groan at pleasure. He trailed his kisses up until you could feel his hot breath on your ear.

A shiver ran down your spine as he began to pleasure your ear by licking and soflty biting the lobe, pleased at the sounds you made. The sounds you made were exquisit to him. He couldn't get enough of you.

He suddenly stopped, pulling away from you. His hands returned to his side. Confused of why he stoped, you searched his eyes, looking for a reason of why he denied you of the burning pleasure in you.

"My love", he began as he brought one of your hands on his lips, the kiss gentle comparing to the passionate ones moments ago, " would you want to continue further? I would like to bring many different pleasures to you if you want", his gaze full of love, he waited patiently for your answer, letting you gather your thoughts.

Gazing back at him, you realised that you would like to know the pleasures he spoke of. You craved his body on yours. His touch, his kisses, his voice, everything. You would like to know what was to lay with your husband, to share a bed.

"I would like to know these pleasures you speak of. I want this.”

A beautiful smile appeared on his face. He kissed the inside of your hand with the same gentle touch before helping you lay on your bed comfortably with your pillows and soft covers.

"Then, allow me, my beloved.”

His kisses resumed, hot on your skin and content to hear once more of your beautiful sounds.
He took off your nightgown with the once more confirmed gaze that you wanted this. He marveled at the sight of your naked form. He didn't think it was possible for you to become even more beautiful, but you always surprised him. He roamed his hands on your body, wondering how lucky he must be to have you in his life.

"You are beautiful", he whispered.

You barely had time to respond as he kept kissing your body, worshiping it while whispering praises.

He finaly ended up between your delectable thighs, so close to where you needed him the most, yet so far away.

"Patience, my love, I intend to take my time with you.”

His kisses resumed on your thinghs. Licking, sucking, kissing them until he arrived at your sweet pussy. You were already dripping with arousal when he parted your lips aside, a lustfull hunger in his eyes.

Your patience was rewarded as he licked a strip from your dripping hole to your clit and sucking lightly on it. A moan louder than the others escaped you as your hands fisted the sheets tightly in your hands, desperate for something to ground yourself.

He moaned at the taste of you, burying himself deeper and working his toungue in you, just to bring it back on your clit. He sucked it lightly while his fingers came to gently prod your hole.

“Hmm- this is perfect my love, keep your thighs spread out for me.” You did your best to hold on to the back of your knees, streatching yourself to the best of your capabilities.

He took his time streatching you out, long fingers curling deeper in you. You saw stars as he only brought you closer to the edge, sheets bundle tightly in your fists. With each sweet sound you made, Al eccoed it, sending pleasurable vibrations all through your body.

“Aah~ Al please! Please!”, you moaned.

“Hmm- go on my love, keep my name on your sweet lips”, he pulled out but then quickly had his tongue give you gentle licks on your clit.

It was your first time experiencing all of the sensations, to have someone kiss you down there. It would be impossible for you to not restrain yourself around him.

He couldn’t stop himself from grinding against the bed, from how lustful you looked with your hazy gaze, your moans, your taste… he couldn’t think of a place more heavenly than between your thighs.

Your hands left the sheets to grab on his hair as you finaly climaxed. Your walls pulsed against his fingers deep within you that continued to pull out new sensations while his mouth work on your clit. You kept his head between your thighs and Al was much eager to stay. Your hands pulling on his hair made it even more difficult for him to restrain his painful erection.

You went limp, exhaustion taking over you. You barely registered a warm cloth gently cleaning the wet mess between your thighs. You were soon under comfortable sheets as you felt soft lips kiss your hand.

"Sweet dreams my love"

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Chapter Text

Your first greeting was a soft ray of the dawn. The warmth of the sheets, the way every one of your muscles layed relaxed, you could stay like this forever. You turned over and find the empty spot besides you.

Weird. You did remember someone being besides you when you drifted to sleep and the weight leaving at one point in the night.

Oh.

Oh.

Memories of last night crashed onto you.

Al confessed… he actually confessed. You buried yourself in the sheets, hoping to ease this nervous feeling of vulnerability you shared with him. He kissed you, his lips teaching you new sensations.

Especially down there.

You began feeling hotter and hornier the more you remember his touch. You made sure to keep an ear out if Marie ever decides to come in with breakfeast. You started with caressing your sensible spots that make you squirm, trying ito prolong that sensation until your hand reached in between your legs.

Your breath caught up, your chest going up and down as you began drawing small circles on your clit with your arousal.

Faster. Faster. Faster…

Your mind drifted to last night, when his tongue stroked your insides, when his fingers rubbed each perfect pleasurable spots. Your fingers became his as you imagined him kneeling before you once again. His mouth licking every inch of you, sucking and stroking your clit as his fingers reached that one spot your fingers can’t.

Your movement becomes more erratic the more desperate to chase that high comes, but a part of you wants this to last longer, to hang on the edge and never let go.

You whish Al was there with you. His soft locks threading around your fingers as he thrusted his hips, the harsher the grip the more rapid his movements were. His hips thrusting against the mattress, leaving you wondering how it would feel if his hips joined with yours instead of the mattress.

You were almost there, a few rubs to your clit in the right spot, the right amount of pressure as your walls quivered and the-

A knock came on the door.

Shit. Shit shit shit.

Of course at the perfect moment you had to be interrupted. You quickly tried to seem as if you weren’t on the break of a mind shattering orgasm. You kept your fingers beneath the sheets the more subtle way possible.

“Come on in”

The door opened and you were surprised upon seeing Al push the breakfeast stroller with a soft expression that makes butterflies bloom in your stomac. He was dressed casually with a flowy linen short tucked at the waist. His hair was let loose and fell like silk curtains framing his face.

Your stomac rumbled at the smell of freshly cooked eggs with toast and other small breakfeast meals on the tray. He carefully put the tray on your lap, took your hand and kissed the back of it with a content expression on his features.

“Did you sleep well my love?”, you could trace a slight groggy sound when he speaks, traces of his morning voice you found yourself desperatly to hear.

You nodded your head as you stuffed your face with the delicious breakfeast. It was hard meeting his eyes because all they reminded you of was the way he looked at you bewtween your legs last night as he brought you to unimaginable heights with his tongue, and fingers. The same fingers that are still holding one of your hand, drawing random shapes.

Turns out your touch was not enough to extinguish that burning desire you still feel. Maybe Al…

No.

How could you ask him that? How do you do it? You have read some books that could certainly inspire you to… um… seduce your husban, but would he want it? Curse your overthinking and insecurities.

“I cleared my schedule for the next week”, Al brought you out of your mind as you finally looked at him with excitment and joy which reflected his.

“You did..?”

“Of course, I want to spend all of our time with you, but without to trick anyone that you are my wife. I want those moments we spent before our marriage but to be just for us.”

“I want the same”, you smiled at him, giving him his most treasured sight freely.

He leaned in to kiss you and your heart jumped at excitment. The breakfeast was all finished and discarded to the stroller.

Your hands anchored on his shoulder as he guided you to stradle him while his hands were gently resting on your hips.

You kept the nightgown you were wearing the night to sleep but underneath it was nothing. You could easily feel the hardness straining against his pants as you mindlessly started grinding on his lap. His hands only encouraged you to grind harder, both of your hips meeting each other desperatly.

“Fuck love, yes that’s it”, his breathless voice was addicting, his lips trailing kisses down to your neck, “Keep moving those hips, you’re doing so good for me aren’t you?” He asked in between kisses.

You’re mind was overtook by the fuzzy haze. The only thought was to chase that high and to please him as much as he was pleasing you.

“Was cumming until you slept not enough for you my dear? My, what a needy wife I married”, his teasing voice was accompanied by his hands slithering lower, bordering the curve of you ass, “How could I have left my wife like this? What a terrible husband I must be.”

“Please… Al please I need- ah~ I need…”, you couldn’t even think, your mind overtook by the only thought of moving your hips more desperatly each time.

“You can do tell me love, what do you need? Use me as much as you like dearest.”

“Please make me cum. Please Al- hgnn.. fingers- ah I want your fingers.”

“Your wish is my command”, his satisfaction and eagerness was apparent as his fingers bunched the fabric of your nightgown and begans stroking your slit to wet his fingers.

“All of this for me? Darling you spoil me too much”

His thumb caught your clit, circling it slowly, copying his finger that was at the outside of your entrance teasing you until you felt mad with desire.

A higher moan left your lips as his finger finally slid in. Sensations from last night returned. Your hands gripped his shoulders tightly as he began to reach far away spots that you were unable to touch. That combined with your clit being stroked faster and faster, you don’t even think you could last longer.

You buried your face between the juncture of his neck and shoulder, instinctly sucking lightly on the skin so as not to cum too early.

“Fuck… ah- love, you like this hmmm? My good girl loves to have fingers inside here doesn’t she? Hmmm yes just like that, you’ve been so good my love.”

Another finger joined the one already inside, spreading you further, loving how the streatching of your walls felt they quivered in response. Your thighs began to shake with how close you were to tipping over the edge.

His thumb caught your clit in just the right place and all came crashing down. Your walls pulsed aroud his fingers violently but it did not deeter him to continue stroking your inner walls and clit. Your mind blanked for a second before overstimulation made you twitch in his grasp.

He gently pulled his fingers out of you and brought them to his lips and groaned at your taste while cleaning them with his tongue. Your head rested against his shoulder, breathing his addicting scent in while catching your breath, your heart still sprinting in your chest.

You were suddenly very aware of the hardness you were sitting on and sat back, a guilty look on your face.

“Should I… what should I do I-..sorry”, an amusing look spread on his face at your flustered face.

“Do not worry about this love, your pleasure is my pleasure”

“But..”

“Tonight darling, tonight if you want we can explore more. But for now, we have a date planned.”

“A date..?”

“Yes, we are going for a picknick dearest.”

.

.

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Chapter Text

Your heart jumped in excitment at the thought he organised a date. A date. Not a fake scenario to fool people your in love. You two would be able to enjoy each other company truthfully, without any misconception of your relationship.

You made sure your attire was perfect. The best colours that never failed to suit you and something that he has never seen before. Your confidence rose with how much efforts you put in. You felt like a weight left your shoulders, more free and confident in yourself.

You went out to the stables, where you would ride besides Al to travel to the picnic. Upon your arrival, Al was already waiting for you, looking as calm and imposing as ever. But with all the time you spent with him, you could notice the slight twitch in his jaw, his eyes scanning the two horses to make sure everything was perfect for you.

Once he noticed you approching from the corner of his gaze, his eyes softened, the small smile of seeing you again graced his lips. He took your fingers gently in his, kissing your knuckles, for it was his favourite way of greeting you, hoping his devotion and love would convey through this act.

“Hello my love, ready for our little pic-nic?”

“Oh yes, can’t wait for you to lose our little race to the meadow”, you chuckled as you approached your carefree mare.

You mounted your horse by yourself, Al doing the same besides you, the corner of his lips curving up at your competitive side.

“Oh dearest, don’t think I’m letting you win, you know how competitive I am after all.”

You do. From time to time, you both liked to challenge the other, pushing each other to the limits.

“See you there husband!” You called out before riding towards the meadow. After all, who said you needed to play fair?

You heard an amused curse behind you as he was hot on your trail, not letting you win so easily. The trail shrunk until you were riding into the forest, dodging trees left and right. The leaves filtered the sun rays, fresh air filling your lungs as your breath became more scarse. In the corner of your eye, you noticed Al catching up to you until you were equally matched.

“It is known that the first one to start the race is the last one to finish wife”, Al teased.

“Words said by petty losers, husband”, you retorted back, teasing him back with a hint of laughter in your voice.

It was barely audible with the sounds of hooves racing, crackling the fallen leaves and branches on the ground along with the blood racing from the competition, but you could hear his small laughter. The softness of that sound widened your own smile.

That is, until you heard Al’s breath being knocked over, him falling off his horse as it kept racing.

“Al!” You cried out.

You huried back towards him, jumping off and rushing towards him to make sure he was ok. He groaned, trying to get back on his feet after the shock but you pushed him down to examin him for any visible injuries.

“Don’t get back up just yet my love, I need to make sure you’re well”, you worriedly patted him for any indication of bruises. You started with his neck, his arms, then down his chest until you reached his lower abdomen. A groan left his lips, a sound you whished to hear under different circumstances.

“Al! Are you alright! Does it hurt when I press down here?”, you applied light pressure again, afraid of the implications of internal bleeding. You remember reading about such outcomes and you downright refuse to let your future unravel this way.

“Oh no! Your ears are red! Does it have to do with your injuries? I don’t remember if it’s a side effect of internal bleeding, oh Al please wait a second I’ll fetch the doctor, wait

noIthinkyoushouldcomewithmeIcan’tleaveyoulikethiscanyoustandI’llhelpyo-“

Warm hands despite the fresh breeze cupped your cheeks, interrupting you in your panic. His green eyes held yours in captive. You could make out the darker ring around his iris, the different flecks of green adorning his eyes before being engulfed by his dark pupil. You stayed a moment like this, both of you out of breath. You from your rambling and him being knocked out from his horse by a branch.

“I am fine my love.” His raspy voice really should have a warning. Like a spark to a match, your body seemed to burst with an insatiable need only he can tame the fires within. “And I can asure you, it was certainly not an injury down there”. He chuckled at your confused state before you caught on. He felt your cheeks flame with embarassment, causing a teasing smile to grace his lips. You didn’t know if you wanted to push him back down for making you worry or kiss the smirk away.

You deemed the second option the best.

As your lips met his, you couldn’t remember if it was the first time you actually initiated the kiss. His lips were still for a split second before deepening the kiss. His hand went past your cheek to the back of your head as the other glided down to your waist, his thumb drawing small circles there. He pressed you closer to him as if the meer inch gap between your bodies was unacceptable. Your hands pulling him against you more for the need of air.

The growl of your stomac interrupted this moment.

“Come on my love, let’s have this pic-nic now shall we?”

“Yes, but for the record, I won”, you teased and turned back to get the horses.

It was but a whisper, faint as if the race was not the topic conquering his thoughts.

“That you did my love”

—————

Your named being screamed for the whole household to hear was not a surprise. Being the oldest sibling with a numerous amount of younger siblings in your care was as handfull than juggling fire sticks on an unstable platform while knives were being thrown your way. Quickly gathering your plain but practical skirts, you rushed down stairs.

“A visitor for you”, your too calm for a kid sister answered the door.

“Thank you my dear, go on and join the others”.

Now, on a Thursday afternoon, waiting for your parents to return, the least person you were expecting on your doorstep was Duke Alphonse Ambrose of Webmond.With his perfectly shaped suit, his deep green eyes captivating yours into a trance, you could barely utter a word. Anything really, a greeting, inviting him in. Being curteous with your guest. Though it must be hard to think when the only thought running through your mind was how such a scary man could be so pretty at the same time.

“Oh.. umm… I- how can I help you your grace?” That was off to a good start.

“May I speak with you.” His voice calm and collected. Did he even have emotions?

You gave a small nod before opening the door widely of your townhouse. Though modest considered the other aristocrates, you were thankfull for such space for your large family.

“Alone.” You followed his gaze to your youngest siblings spying on you.

“Of course, follow me, we can use the drawing room.”

You lead him to the drawing room, closing the doors for a bit of privacy. You would think that a Duke would hold a conversation. Alas this one took his time studying the room. Drifting his gaze to the worn paper wall, the used, but well maintained chairs and the paintings on the wall. The silence was stretched, his presence taking the entire room as he finally gave you his attention.

“I am in need of a wife”, he states.

Your eyes confused on why he would announce it to you of all people looked at him waiting for him to continue. His gaze harden at your lack of engagement as he continued.

“My estate needs managing and my Aunt, Duchess of York, is pestering me with talks of a union.”

“I am sorry to hear about your troubles your grace”, your obliviousness starting to irritate the Duke.

“I have heard many praises about your gouvernance skills, and especially managing your household with your countless sibling, I believe you would qualify as a suitable candidate”, his expression remained cold and calculating.

Wait.

WHAT!!???

YOU!!????? AS THE FIANCE OF THE DUKE OF WEBMOND!!???? Your mind was chaos as your thoughts scrambled to make sense of his proposal.

“Pardon me your grace but…. Me?”

“Yes”

Your mouth was wide open for a few second in shock.

“But… may I ask why?”

“It is very simple. I seek a companion to manage my estate and my Aunt will be appeased by my new marital status. In this contract, I will help your family financially and the status will be saved. I am a buisness man at heart my Lady and I believe we both will benefit from this transaction.”

Your mind had so many questions. This was too good to be true. You finally had a way to help your family, for them to not struggle in society as you have finding a partner and all the snarky comments.

But.

You wouldn’t be marrying for love. You think back to your younger self, reading romance and dreaming of someone unconditionally loving you as you loved them. You heavily doubt a future like that with the Duke of no emotions over there. It is clear this is a contract and he is not looking for affection. If he wants a buisness partner, you could be a buisness partner. You tried following your heart and it lead you to despicable Hughes. The heart is a fragile thing and you learned your lesson, garding yours in an impenetrable forteress.

“This is a very apealing offer your grace.”

“Am I being rejected?”, the temperature seemed to drop but you stood your ground.

“If I am to accept, we need to carefully consider the circumstances. My parents would not allow me to marry out of love you see… they had a great love story you see and they wish the same for me. We would have to fool them if you wish to take my hand in marriage your grace.”

A calculating glint in his eyes made you cautious of this terrifying beauty.

“I expected as much, my Aunt is the same, she will not let me marry anyone.”

“Well then, I feel like we need to prove to them we are in love”

“I don’t fall in love my lady.” He outstreatched his hand, the handshake sealing the deal between you both.

“Good, me neither”

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