"Addison!" Matt coughed as he rushed through the smoked filled house. "Where are you?!"
A tearful wail drew him to the kitchen.
He coughed some more as he made his way towards her. His worry grew when he saw her slumped across the kitchen counter.
"Addison?" Matt tried to pick her up.
Tear filled blue eyes lifted toward him.
"Are you hurt?" He held her tight as he quickly scanned her for any visible injuries.
"No." She yelled to be heard over the smoke alarms screeching their warnings.
"There's a fire somewhere!" He yelled back. "We have to get out of here!"
"I put it out!" She struggled out of his arms to open up the kitchen windows.
Matt watched her in disbelief as she fanned the smoke with a badly singed cooking magazine.
It wasn't long before the smoke alarms shut off.
"Is that what was burning?" Matt asked, pointing at what was left of the magazine.
"What?" She looked down at the item she swore would help make their first Christmas as a couple special. "It wasn't the only thing on fire."
Matt's eyes widened as he took in the disaster that had struck his once pristine kitchen. Mixing bowls were littered all over the table and bar. Egg shells were scattered along the counters, dripping egg whites down the cabinets. Flour was strewn about the floor and sink. Measuring cups held the residues of mysterious liquids.
Addison herself appeared to have taken part in a battle. Her shiny blonde hair was nearly white with flour dustings. Strands had escaped her messy bun to hang lopsided along the tips of her ears and the back of her neck. Smudges of egg and brown goo were dotted all over her red apron and green leggings. He knew she'd donned a white t-shirt earlier. He wasn't certain what color it would be after it was thoroughly washed.
Whatever she'd fought in here had beaten her.
And that aroma...
"What is that smell?" He asked.
Addison slumped once more upon a clean spot on the kitchen counter.
"It was supposed to be gingerbread cookies, now it's just a pile of coal."
"Gingerbread cookies?" Matt couldn't believe a cookie could do this much damage in so little time.
He looked about and saw a tray with blackened, oddly shaped objects.
"I ruined them." She sniffed as tears began to fall. "I ruined everything!"
The one thing Matt couldn't take in life was seeing Addison's tears.
He pulled her in his arms, ignoring the squish of whatever she'd spilled on herself and the feel of cold liquid seeping through his clean dress shirt.
Matt pressed a kiss to the top of her head as she cried against his chest. He left his head bent too long in her flour coated hair and ended up sneezing multiple times.
"Oh no!" Addison wailed louder than before. "Now I've made you sick!" She wiped her eyes with the back of her hands. "Christmas is ruined!"
"No, it isn't!" Matt tilted her face up, gently wiping the stray tears that continued to fall. "You're here, right?"
He kissed her forehead.
She nodded while reaching for a paper towel to wipe her nose.
"And I'm here." He pressed another soft kiss to her cheek.
She mumbled an agreement.
"Then it sounds like the perfect Christmas to me." He gave her a tender kiss.
Addison slipped her arms around his neck, sighing when he ended the sweet exchange.
"This is why I love you, Matt." She snuggled within his arms. "You always point out the good things when bad things happen."
He smiled while holding her close.
"It's easy whenever you're around."
She looked up at him. Her typical bright smile appeared once more.
"There's my sunshine girl." He mumbled against her lips. "I was worried she disappeared in the smoke."
She giggled, shaking her head over such a nickname. Her attention was then drawn to the man-made disaster she'd created.
She'd been so sure she would end up being a wonderful baker.
Boy was I wrong, she thought to herself.
"I'm sorry I destroyed your kitchen." Her bottom lip began to quiver as new tears filled her eyes.
"It's no big deal." Matt tugged her back in his arms.
He leaned his head down until he was eye level with her when she began to sniff.
"Addison, I don't care if this kitchen has to be demolished and I have to start all over again with contractors."
"I don't think it's that bad." She mumbled.
He grinned. "I know that and now you do too."
"Okay." She looked up at him. "Now what do we do?"
"I say we leave this room and pretend it doesn't exist for a while."
"Matt!" She giggled even harder as he took her hand and made a dramatic show of sneaking out of the kitchen.
"There!" He playfully wiped his brow. "We made it."
"What am I going to do with you?" Addison asked.
She wrapped her arms around his waist, leaning close to kiss his lips.
"I definitely love where your head is at right now." He said between kisses.
He lifted her up, smiling against her lips when she wrapped her legs around his waist.
"I have to make it up to you somehow." She kissed down his neck. "Not only did I destroy your kitchen--"
"The room that shall not be named." He corrected.
She laughed in the midst of his kiss.
"Not only did I destroy the room that shall not be named, I also ruined our treats for tonight."
"Hmm. That is a problem." Matt pretended to ponder this. "There's only one way to fix this."
"And what's that?" Addison asked.
He placed her on the couch then covered her body with his.
"You'll have to be my treat tonight." Matt replied.
A/N: Dedicated to the bff @alj4890 who has been dealing with things I’m unsure how any human being can function at this point but—this ones for you, A! Feel better ASAP! I need chapters 👀🙊😂💀JK [ish]
Pairing: Thomas x Amanda [OC], Matt x Addison, Ryan x Holly [platonic], Seth x Jessica [implied]
Guys, 1) I’ve NEVER played RCD so uhm go easy on me. If the characters are off, sorry 😬. It’s my first time writing for them. And 2) Last time I played laser tag was back in elementary school 👀🙊😂. I’m going off of pure memory in this.
Since shifting the car into park, his only thought is the innate desire to run...
From the people he foolishly acquainted himself with to the frivolous building he found himself walking through with its dingy doors.
“Hey! Look who made it!”
“Ryan,” Thomas’s voice devoid of emotion, “Was this necessary?” He gestures to the dim lighting in the room.
The actor doesn’t notice Thomas’s scowl at the friendly arm around his shoulder.
“Very,” Ryan simply said.
5 MINUTES LATER
“Ready?,” Matt asks no one in particular.
“Been,” Seth is the first to answer.
Thomas shakes his head at seeing the solemn look on the comedian’s face.
“Let’s goooo!,” Chadley shouted, sprinting out of the room.
“I’m coming for you Holly,” Ryan hovers over the bench, his eyes fixate on the exit door as he double-knotted the laces to his sneakers.
Thomas disregards the competitive spirit in the room, carefully placing his cufflinks into an assigned locker, he rolls the sleeves of his dress shirt up to his elbows.
“Just so you are aware,” he calmly states, “I will be removing you all from my life when this is over.”
10 MINUTES LATER
“Go, go, go!”
Matt whispers to the four men crouched behind him save for the bored director at the end of the line who stood tall, scanning his email.
“Thomas!,” Ryan pulls on his arm as they inch closer to a corner.
“He’s going to get us killed,” Seth muttered.
“And become a hero,” Thomas said, his voice mildly amused.
Matt ignores the conversation and motions with his hand for the dysfunctional team to move forward.
15 MINUTES LATER
“You’re brilliant,” Holly’s eyes begin to moisten despite the commotion surrounding her.
The compliment does little to slow down the usually calm blonde who has become a ball of energy, quickly helping Amanda with her gear.
“We have to hurry!,” Addison exclaimed, her voice low on purpose.
“Remind me again,” Amanda is barely able to get the words out before a weapon is thrust into her hands, “Why did you ask me to keep my visit a secret from Thomas?”
The disturbing grin on Addison’s face did not go unnoticed.
“Addison? Are you okay?,” Amanda asked, she looked between the two women who had recently become close friends on her numerous trips to Hollywood.
“I’m fine.”
“She’s in the zone,” Holly said with a tinge of excitement.
30 MINUTES LATER
“Man down!,” Chadley shouted from an unknown location.
Matt, Ryan, and Seth looked to the direction of his voice.
“Damn it,” Seth groaned.
“I can’t believe I’m asking this but can I leave...now?,” Thomas impatiently asks, noticing the time on the clock nearby.
“No!”
“Ssshh!,” Matt hurries to quiet a panicked Ryan. “They’ll hear us!,” he whispered.
“No one leaves until the timer is through,” he clarifies to an irate Thomas, “The team with most members on the floor in the end, wins.”
“How much time do we have left?,” Ryan searches the nearby walls for the timer.
“20 minutes,” Seth answered. “We’ll have to take one out to at least tie with them.”
45 MINUTES LATER
Amanda crawls behind the make-shift barrier made of old tires, trying her hardest to focus on following the vague instructions given to her by Addison.
“Man down!”
She recognizes the voice belonging to Seth and stops to take shelter behind the dirty tires.
“I’m coming for you, Summers!”
Amanda turns her head to Holly’s voice nearby, hoping to see her or at least another team member.
“Amanda!,” her prayers are answered when Addison suddenly appears next to her, behind the barrier.
“Holly got him!”
“Who?,” Amanda asked.
“Ryan!,” she gives a breathless account of Holly’s heroism.
1 HOUR LATER
With his back against a wall, Matt surveys the seemingly empty floor,
He was the last of his team still standing.
Except, Matt looked back at his only other companion, who was now on the phone.
“Amanda,” Thomas unbothered by the dwindling number of his teammates, “I’m stuck at this ridiculous place,” he continues his message on her voicemail, “But I’m on my way out. Call me when you get this, please.”
“We still have a few minutes left Thomas,” Matt reminded him.
He winces at the outburst of expletives coming from the director’s mouth.
1 ½ HOUR LATER
“Was that Thomas’s voice?,” Amanda eagerly turned with an enthusiasm she didn’t know she possessed. The exhaustion from her red-eye flight was beginning to set in.
Addison pulled her back into their hiding space.
“We’re still tied, Amanda.”
“I know,” she admitted. “We can always come back later and break the tie.”
Amanda attempts to stand from her crouched position before she is pulled back down.
“No!,” Addison’s strength and sheer will caught the Duchess off-guard. She’d never seen the usually level-headed, costume designer in this light.
It was almost frightening, Amanda thought.
1 HOUR 45 MINUTES LATER
“It’s over Matt,” the two remaining team members walk side by side towards the locker room.
“I know,” the actor accepted somewhat begrudgingly.
“Actually…,” a voice from behind surprises the two men as Matt feels the gear strapped to his chest power down, “We still have about two minutes left.”
Addison lifts her hands up in superiority, celebrating her team’s victory while jumping over Matt in excitement. He covered his ears in an attempt to protect himself from hearing loss at her squeals echoing the room.
Her solo party is quickly cut short when she feels the neon gear attached to her upper body power down.
Both Addison and Matt look to Thomas, lowering the laser-gun in his hand, face devoid of emotion.
“You were the last one Ms. Sinclair,” he said, tossing the gun away.
“I’m leaving now.”
He turns in the direction of the exit, ignoring the celebration Matt was now having, when Amanda suddenly walks in.
Thomas narrowed his eyes, skeptical of his eyesight. He blinks a few times, confident the enclosed space he had been trapped in for the past hour was now making him delirious.
“Hello Mr. Hunt,” she playfully greeted.
Amanda can’t help her smile, watching the realization dawn on the features of Thomas’s handsome face.
It couldn’t be, he thought to himself, yet he found his pace quickening towards her.
Or someone who bore a striking resemblance to Amanda.
It isn’t long before the long-distance couple is reunited with Thomas immediately pulling her to him in a loving embrace.
“I’ve been calling you all afternoon!”
Amanda gave him a remorseful shrug.
“I wanted to surprise you.”
The knowing smirk on his face brings a faint blush to the Duchess’s cheeks.
“Let’s go to my place,” he quickly moves to lead her out.
In the corner of her eye, she spots Addison eyeing the timer just above her head.
“5 seconds, Amanda!,” she shouted.
Thomas, confused by the sudden outburst, turns to look back at her when he sees Matt shaking his head.
“Behind you!,” he yelled to Thomas.
It was too late.
Thomas glances down at the now darkened, unpowered, neon-colored chestplate.
Addison’s celebratory squeals are once again heard throughout the room.
“Suck it Matt!”
“Cheaters!,” he accuses her.
A few feet from the quarreling Rodriguez couple, Thomas stares at the woman who claimed to be in love with him.
“Not you too, Amanda!,” he grumbled.
She sauntered over to him and placed her hands on his broad shoulders. Leaning into him, she briefly gazed into his eyes, her lips inches away from his.
I don't want any of the original HWU characters to become love interests. Not Thomas Hunt. Not Addison Sinclar. Not a single one of them. As someone who has never played HWU before, I feel alienated by the massive amount of fan demand that the become love interests while I was like "I'm supposed to know who these people are from the start to the point of falling in love with them?" I know they're good people, but because they've already appeared in a previous game and paid their dues, they should've been supporting characters instead like the old guard of HSS. Any attempt to make them love interests will never work on me.
(Thomas Hunt x oc*Amanda) in a “what if” version to the RCD/TRR fan fic And Then I Met You Series
A/N Here it is! Finally! The fluffy finale to this series. I honestly loved reworking and thinking about how these two could have ended up together if something had changed in my original AU for them. Thank you again for your patience as I took so long. Moving and unpacking killed the romance in me for a while, LOL. I needed to get my head right for their wedding. And thanks once more to Nonny for this request. Who knew it would take sixteen chapters to answer? As with all my other series, requests from this AU will always be welcome even if this is the end of the main storyline.
Song Thomas chose for their first dance: (I Love You) For Sentimental Reasons by Nat King Cole
Once more the song for Olivia and Ryan's duet 😉
And Holly and Addison couldn't be ignored with their song 😂
Hana gently patted Amanda on the back while a concerned Riley fanned her.
"I shouldn't," Amanda wheezed, "shouldn't have peeked out."
Olivia rolled her eyes. "You've been to balls with more people than are outside."
"Yes, but not everyone was watching me the entire time!" Amanda snapped.
Why did Constantine have to have those pictures taken?
"Right. We have just a few minutes before we are to walk down the aisle." Holly said brusquely. "What do you need us to do to calm you down?"
Amanda shook her head with a half-hearted shrug. She honestly couldn't think about anything other than the three hundred people sitting just a few yards away.
"How about a drink?" Addison offered. "Nothing too strong, but hopefully something that will take the edge off."
"That might help." Amanda mumbled.
"I'll go." Olivia said, feeling useless with this type of battle.
She left the bridal tent and tried to hurry over to one of the bars set up for the reception. No bartender or waiter was nearby. Deciding she didn't need them, she went behind the bar to search for something to either grab or mix.
"What's wrong?" Drake asked.
She whirled around to see not only him but also Thomas.
"Why aren't you waiting over there?" She gestured with a bottle of vodka toward the stage where Liam and the rest of the groomsmen stood.
"We were." Thomas lowered his voice. "But when I saw you come over here, I thought something must be wrong with Amanda."
She quirked an eyebrow at Drake for him to explain why he felt the need to join in on this interrogation.
"I was curious." He grumbled, folding his arms across his chest.
It irritated Drake to no end that Olivia had spent the last two days giving him the slip. He wasn't sure why she wouldn't at least discuss what they had done during the bachelor/bachelorette parties. It stung to say the least that she could practically seduce him without at least a goodbye at the end.
"Amanda saw the crowd and went into a slight panic." She explained. "Addison was the only one of us to suggest a drink, so here I am."
Olivia finished pouring a healthy amount of vodka over ice.
"She prefers cranberry or orange juice with that." Thomas reminded her.
"I know. With the way she's shaking, I didn't think she'd appreciate having a stain on her dress."
"I'll take it to her." Thomas plucked the glass from her hand.
"How?" Olivia's eyebrows lifted in surprise. "You're not supposed to see her until--"
"I'll find a way." He grumbled as he quickly walked to the tent.
"That's not going to go over well." Drake muttered.
Olivia snorted. "If he gets past Holly and Addison, I'll be impressed."
Drake turned fully toward her. "Liv? I need to tell you--"
"I better get back in there!" She tried to escape him. "Lord knows what will happen between Thomas and--"
"Olivia, wait." Drake grasped her wrist.
"The wedding starts in less than a minute." She tried to twist out of his grip. "We don't have time to--"
"I want to be with you." He harshly whispered.
Olivia stilled.
They heard music starting. People began to settle down. Bridesmaids and groomsmen were getting in their positions.
"If you want the same," Drake let her go. "Then come find me at the reception."
Her lips parted as if to respond. Unable to find the words, she hurried off.
****************
"You're supposed to be up front with Liam!" Addison argued, standing guard at the front of the tent. "People are going to think neither one of you wants to get married!"
Thomas merely glared at her.
"We don't have a way to hide her." Holly explained. "You can't come in here and--"
They each heard the music begin.
"It's time!" Riley chimed as she scooted past the three.
Hana beamed at them on her way out.
Nadia and Maxwell followed.
"Thomas, come over here a second." Nadia slipped her hand within the bend of his arm and tugged him over to the backside of the tent.
"I don't have time to--" he stopped when he noticed a small opening within the folds.
"You two can talk here without anyone seeing." Nadia explained. "And, you can hold her hand."
His lips curved when Amanda's hand slipped out.
"Thank you, Nadia." He placed the drink in the offered hand.
She winked at him, whispered good luck, and hurried back to find her place in line.
"Sorry about all this." Amanda said.
Thomas reached in through the opening, taking her hand. "There's nothing to apologize over."
"I don't know why I keep panicking. I want everyone to see how happy we are. It's just...walking in front of them...speaking before all those people..."
He could feel her trembling.
"Then we won't do it."
She stilled. "You...you don't want to marry me?"
His eyes widened. Tightening his grip on her hand, he immediately spoke to nix that ridiculous conclusion.
"Of course I want to! We are getting married tonight. I'll have Liam come into this tent and perform the ceremony for the two of us. Our guests can get over it and simply enjoy the reception with us."
He could hear the clinking of ice cubes as she took a sip.
"You'd do that for me? Make everyone wait while we say our vows privately?"
"I'll do anything you need me to. All I want is to make certain you are mine by the end of the evening."
He lifted her hand to his lips. He pressed a gentle kiss to the back of her hand, one to the inside of her wrist, then a final one within her palm. Her fingers brushed along his smooth shaven jawline in a caress.
"You better go take your place up front." Amanda said softly. "I will meet you there."
"Are you certain?" Thomas pressed her hand to his cheek. "I'm more than willing to tell everyone to wait."
"I'm sure." She finished off her drink. "Once I have you holding my hand again, I'll be fine."
He pressed another lingering kiss to her palm. "Then I will see you in a few moments."
"Thomas?"
"Yes?" He paused in turning around.
"I love you."
"And I love you."
*******************
"Something wrong?" Liam whispered once Thomas returned.
"A slight panic over our audience." Thomas grumbled. "That was the reason she wanted us to elope the night of your coronation."
Liam's brow furrowed in thought.
"Excuse me a moment."
Thomas watched as Liam sought out his father. A few whispers had the king and former king walking toward the bridal tent. Thomas wondered if he should follow.
"Just wait." Ryan muttered, smiling towards the guests. "You can trust Liam to do what's right."
"I do trust him." Thomas explained. "It is his father who I don't."
********************
"Your majesties." Amanda dropped down in an automatic curtsy.
Liam smiled warmly at her. "You look beautiful, Amanda."
A wry grin appeared on her face. "I can't take credit for any of it." She gestured from head to toe. "All Hollywood magic."
He chuckled then motioned toward his father. "Since you don't have your uncle or father here to do so, I think my father should be the one to walk you down the aisle."
"You do?" Amanda looked back and forth between the two men.
"It will show the world once more that the Crown holds no ill will towards you for choosing Thomas over me." Liam explained. His smile grew. "And it will give you someone to hold onto in case you get too nervous and stumble."
Constantine cleared his throat. "I would also like to add that I would be honored to do so." A slight frown formed. "I have come to realize that my treatment of you the night of the ball was uncalled for. I offer my sincerest apologies for the invasion of your privacy and the harsh words spoken afterwards."
Amanda turned from him to Liam.
"He means it." Liam told her. "We have had many discussions these past two weeks over that night."
Amanda took a deep breath and picked up her bouquet. "Then I thank you, sir." She placed her hand in the bend of Constantine's arm. "I am honored to have you as my escort."
Constantine patted her hand.
"Then I guess that's my cue to return to my place." Liam pressed a kiss to her cheek, beamed at his father, and hurried out.
*****************
Thomas could barely stand still as the bridesmaids and Maxwell made their slow progression down the aisle. He couldn't voice his frustrations now that the microphones around them had been turned on. He had to appear happy for the numerous cameras filming every moment. All he wanted was to see Amanda and make certain she was truly alright with everything.
His lips parted with a sharp intake of breath when she came into view. His eyes traveled her curvaceous form clad in the gown Addison had designed. They touched on the tiara Elizabeth had worn when she married Reginald. But it was Amanda's face which had him smiling one of the biggest smiles those in public had ever seen.
She had her head tilted in that proud, duchess way. Her eyes held simply him while she smiled. She ignored the murmurs and such of their audience. Didn't even glance where cameramen stood, training their lens on her. She made certain to show the world that she only cared about one thing.
Him.
He couldn't be more proud nor more humbled that she fought through her fear for him.
Once she was close enough, Thomas not only took her hand, he slid his other arm around her waist. Her chuckle was smothered by the kiss he placed upon her lips.
Ryan, not bothering to hide his amusement, leaned toward them.
"One would think you being a director would keep you from mixing up the timing of kissing the bride." He loudly whispered for the guests and cameras.
Laughter and aw's followed.
"Forgive me." Thomas didn't bother to look at his oldest friend. His eyes remained on Amanda. "I couldn't resist."
His bride's cheeks were pink. Her eyes dropped bashfully away while a tender smile played about her lips. To everyone watching, there was denying the feelings each had for the other.
Liam cleared his throat.
"I have to say that next to choosing my own bride," he winked at Riley, "this chance to officate two of my friends' ceremony is one of my favorite parts of becoming king."
He continued on with the brief part he had in helping the couple get to this point. He shared what their love revealed to him and those closest to them. He then asked Thomas to say his vows first.
Thomas lifted his hand from her waist to gently touch her cheek. He thought over the vows he had written and hoped he could truly convey what was in his heart.
"When I first asked you to come to California, romance was the furthest thought from my mind. My only hope was that we would work well enough together to develop a screenplay and that you wouldn't drive me crazy during the process."
Holly and Addison snorted to try and keep their laughter silent.
"I should have known the moment I saw you that my hopes would change. You did drive me crazy with wanting to have you close at hand. Every thought I had revolved around you and in wanting our collaboration to become a more permanent partnership."
Amanda squeezed his hand when he paused.
"My attraction for you grew beyond anything I had dealt with before. I wanted every part of you to be mine. Your mind, your heart," he shook his head in exasperation, "You became the center of my entire world."
He gently brushed one of her wind blown curls back behind her ear.
"My vow is simply this: I will do everything within my power to show you each and every moment we are lucky enough to have together just how much you mean to me. You will never have a second of doubt of the love I have for you."
Thomas lifted her hand to his heart. "This has been yours from the moment I met you. It will always belong to you and only you."
Amanda blinked back her tears. Ignoring her audience, she tugged him close for a kiss.
"Is this another rehersal?" Ryan teased.
Chuckles and more whispers of how romantic it was followed his question.
Liam merely beamed at them when they parted.
"Amanda?" He said. "You may say your vows now."
She laughed softly, shaking her head as stray tears slipped down her cheeks.
"Thomas, I love you." She shrugged with a smile. "I always have. Before I met you, I loved you for your talent."
"And his modeling days." Maxwell loudly whispered.
"Those didn't hurt my growing affection." Amanda replied, causing more laughter. "Then I met you and everything I originally loved about you dimmed in comparison to the man you truly are."
Thomas pressed a kiss to her knuckles, his hint of a smile growing with each word she said.
"When I left you, I realized how deep my feelings ran. I missed our talks. I missed how you listened to me." She shook her head. "You saw me like no one else, the real me, and made me feel all the compliments you ever gave." She looked up at him. "I missed you."
"You say you wanted my heart and mind to be yours." She looked down to gather her thoughts. "They have been. I have been yours since I stepped off my plane and into your car. Every moment with you has been the best of my life. Your patience, your passion, your loyalty, and your heart are all I want out of life."
She lifted her eyes to his. "You are my fantasy come to life. I vow to do all I can to be worthy of such love and devotion. I will spend the rest of my life loving you, listening to you, and encouraging you in everything you do."
She lifted her free hand to his cheek.
"After all, you made it impossible for me to keep from falling for you."
Thomas turned his head to brush another kiss to her palm. His eyes closed for the brief moment he allowed his lips to linger there, grateful for the one he was about to have for all eternity.
Liam went through the rest of the ceremony. The exchanging of the rings and such made the pair smile.
"I think with all the practice you two have done since we began," he teased, "I don't think I need to say let your union be sealed with a kiss."
"You're right." Thomas pulled Amanda within his embrace. "You don't."
Their lips met in a tender yet passionate kiss.
When they parted, Liam addressed the guests.
"Ladies and gentlemen, it is with great pleasure that I introduce you to the Duke and Duchess of St Orella, Lord Thomas and Lady Amanda Hunt."
Cheers went up as the couple walked the aisle. They quickly disappeared within the bridal tent for a moment alone.
"We did it!" Amanda breathed against his lips. "We're married."
"Now we have nothing ahead of us except our life together." Thomas kissed her neck. "And a honeymoon to plan."
She smiled, looping her arms around his neck. "So much to look forward to."
"Beginning with pictures and your reception."
The couple turned to see Holly standing in the opening of the tent. Her smirk gentled as she congratulated them.
"I am thrilled to say to both of you, I told you so." She motioned for them to follow her back toward the stage.
********************
45 minutes later...
"How you doing? No stage fright developing?" Maxwell asked.
"None for me." Ryan replied.
"A Nevarkis never gets fright of any kind." Olivia snapped in irritation.
"Good." Maxwell looked about at the guests finding their seats. "Once we get the signal, I'll--"
The beginning of a song had them all whipping around in surprise.
Thomas and Amanda walked onto a dancefloor and began to slow dance.
"What is this?!" Maxwell practically wailed.
"Sounds like Nat King Cole." Ryan grinned. "I bet Thomas picked this."
Chris joined their group. "You're right. He said this song was meant to show his feelings for Amanda."
"No!" Addison came jogging up. "I had the perfect song for them!"
"So did I!" Maxwell dropped his head back.
"So we don't have to sing?" Olivia began to smile.
"Oh no." Maxwell grabbed her hand. "My wedding gift is still happening."
"You have exactly ten seconds to release me" she hissed.
"Please!" Maxwell pleaded. "This is the only surprise I thought could truly be one for Amanda."
"Fine." Olivia twisted out of his grasp. "But you better delete everything right now!"
Maxwell pulled his phone out and did as she asked. "Done."
"Let's go talk to the DJ, Ryan." Olivia slipped her arm in Ryan's, leading him toward the stage.
*****************
"I don't think I've ever heard this Nat King Cole song before." Amanda said, gently swaying with Thomas.
"I came across it recently." He pressed a kiss to her lips. "And I realized it perfectly described how I felt when you left me along with my hope when I came here to admit to loving you."
"Really?" Amanda smiled into his next kiss.
"Really." His hand slowly along her back, enjoying the skin revealed in her dress. "You made me doubt I could ever convince you my feelings were true."
She winced at the reminder of her stubborn refusal to hear him out when he first arrived in Cordonia.
"I was heartbroken." Amanda admitted. "I wanted to tell you how in love I was. Then the pictures of your dates flooded the media and I felt so foolish for even thinking you could possibly feel as I do."
Thomas tugged her closer. "All I ever wanted was you."
A wry grin appeared on her face. "I know that now. But back then," she chuckled shaking her head, "back then all I could see was I could never measure up to the women you were attracted to."
"You have that backwards." He leaned down for another kiss. "No one can possibly measure up to you."
"You're being awfully romantic." She teased. "One might think this is a special occassion."
He smiled. "One might be right."
*****************
"If the bride and groom would remain on the dancefloor." Ryan flashed his signature charming smile toward the guests. "We have a gift for you."
Thomas kept his arm around Amanda as the pair turned toward the stage.
Olivia lifted her microphone. "Maxwell did not know that the two of you already had your first dance planned out. He worried over it and found the perfect song." Her nose wrinkled. "Then decided that Ryan and I were the two who should sing it."
Maxwell gave them a thumbs up as he whispered to the DJ to start the song.
Olivia lifted her microphone.
🎶Baby take my hand. I want you to be my best friend. Cause you're my Iron Man and I love you 3000. Baby take a chance cause I want this to be something, straight out of a Hollywood movie. 🎶
Amanda covered her mouth when a delighted laugh slipped out.
Olivia winked at her as she continued.
🎶 I see you standing there and nothing compares. And all I can think, is where is the ring? Cause I know you want to ask. Scared the moment will pass. I can see it in your eyes. Just take me by surprise. 🎶
🎶 And all my friends they tell me they see, you're planning to get on one knee. But I want it to be out of the blue. So make sure I have no clue, when you ask. 🎶
Thomas moved behind Amanda as the chorus began, wrapping his arms around her waist as they watched their friends. His smile grew when Ryan's words struck true to how he felt the night he proposed.
🎶I can see you standing there. And I can't help but stare. I'm ready to bring your wedding ring. On the day that we met, I wanted to ask, if you'd be by my side forever. 🎶
🎶And all your friends, they tell you they see, I'm planning to get on one knee. I'll make sure it's out of the blue. I promise you'll have no clue, when I ask. 🎶
🎶 Baby take my hand I just want to be your best friend. Cause I'm your Iron Man and I love you 3000. Baby take a chance cause I want this to be something straight out of a Hollywood movie. 🎶
Olivia resumed her spot by Ryan's side. The next part of the song had both Thomas and Amanda laughing.
🎶No spoilers, please. 🎶
Once the duet ended, the newly wedded couple embraced the three who made this gift possible. While Amanda laughed with Maxwell and Ryan, Olivia quietly slipped away to join Drake at the bar.
He glanced down at her, then ordered her a glass of Merlot.
She took the glass with a brief incline of her head in gratitude.
The two remained silent as they sipped from their glasses.
Unable to keep his need to know at bay, Drake turned toward her.
"Have you decided?"
She looked up at him in surprise. A slow smile began to form on her lips.
"You told me if I wanted the same to find you at the reception." Her smile turned to a smirk. "Looks like I found you."
Rolling his eyes with a chuckle, he pulled her close for a long, deep kiss.
********************
The rest of the reception was filled with joy for Cordonia and Hollywood's biggest surprise. Though those closest to them never had a doubt how their relationship would go, the rest of their guests were amazed over the way the two freely displayed their love for one another.
Amanda and Thomas seemed to be within their own bubble of happiness. Neither was ever far from the other while greeting their guests. Their dances, the bites of cake, the almost reverent touches each gave to the other all pointed to the fact that despite the scandal, this was a couple truly in love with one another.
As the party grew stronger, the pair were whisked away by their friends.
"I think you two have been put through enough public attention." Liam told them as he opened a door to a waiting car.
"It's time to enjoy being married alone." Ryan added with a suggestive wink.
"Where are we going?" Amanda asked when she noticed Holly putting their bags in the trunk.
"It's a surprise!" Addison pulled her into a tight hug.
The rest of their friends who made this night possible hugged them with wishes for a good night. The group stood waving as the car drove off into the night.
"I can't believe we did it." Addison playfully collapsed against Holly. "All our hard work finally paid off."
"We certainly couldn't have done it without you guys." Holly beamed at both those she had known for years and the new ones she had become close to within the last few weeks.
"I think we work great together." Maxwell threw an arm around her shoulders and one around Nadia's. "Now. Who should we matchmake next?"
The group laughed and groaned at the thought of having to use their impressive powers once. They teased and joked about the parts they played as they made their way back to the reception.
*******************
On a train, heading to Lake Como, Italy...
The private car was just what Thomas and Amanda needed. There was no press. No gawking public. No curious acquaintances. No interfering friends. It was exactly who they wanted from the beginning: just the two of them.
"I thought we weren't going to leave town." Amanda dropped her head back when Thomas embraced her from behind.
"I might have hinted that I wanted a few days alone with you to Liam." His hands drifted along her curves as his kisses grew more heated.
"I see." She turned in his arms, returning each caress and kiss. "I might have also said a word or two about wanting the same to Holly and Addison."
The pair smiled as they began to undress the other. Their passionate kisses briefly paused when a song began to filter through the speakers.
"Where's that music coming from?" Amanda asked.
"Is that...Air Supply?" Thomas grumbled.
Lost in Love was turned up, followed by a note being slipped under their door.
Amanda left Thomas's arms to retrieve it then dissolved into laughter.
Thomas took the note from her. He shook his head with a slight smile forming.
Just because Thomas and Maxwell ruined our chance to have the perfect song played for you at the reception, that doesn't mean you can escape it. Here's how Thomas really was when you left him in California, Amanda.
We love you guys and are thrilled you finally found your happily ever after!
Holly and Addison
XOXO
P.S. We told you you were perfect for each other!
******************
****Epilogue****
Thomas's home, California...
"Here we go." Thomas popped a bottle of champagne.
He filled two glasses with just a hint of a smile upon his face.
"Surely you can do better than that." Amanda teased.
His eyes landed upon her, feeling a wealth of happiness over having her here to share this moment with him. His smile curved more as he took in her shoeless feet tucked up under her royal blue gown. A handful of hair pins rested upon an end table, allowing her hair to finally be free of the formal updo she'd felt was necessary for the night.
"Do better at what?" He asked.
"Smiling." Her own was bright and still filled with the excitement the night had wrought.
"Perhaps you can help me with that." As he passed her a glass, he leaned down and kissed her deeply.
"Much better." She murmured against his lips.
He chuckled, settling down beside her.
"I still can't beleive it." Amanda rested her head against his shoulder. "Can you?"
"I can and fully believed it would happen." He pressed another kiss to the side of her head.
"I'm so proud of you." She tilted her head up for another kiss.
"Of us." He corrected.
"You read my book and loved it enough to turn it into a film. You're the one who guided my writing. You're the one who directed the year's best--"
"None of it would have happened without you." Thomas cut off her arguments with another heated kiss.
She sighed softly, resting her gaze once more on the three golden statues.
"Best picture and best director." She pointed out.
"Best screenplay." He handed hers over to her.
"And we can't forget the Oscars for Jessica, Ryan, and Chris." Amanda added.
"Nor Addison's." He pressed his lips against her neck.
"Your film swept the Oscars." After listing all the others the film won for the night, she set her glass and award on the coffee table to focus more on her husband.
"Our film." He corrected again, shifting them around until she was straddling his lap.
"And look at this very crowded Afterparty we are attending." She teased, untying his bowtie.
"I prefer to spend the evening with the only one who made it all possible." His hands searched the back of her dress for a zipper. "I hope that meets with your approval."
"It does." Her eyes closed as his lips traveled each spot of bare skin exposed.
He smiled softly against her shoulder as his mind went through the past year. Becoming inspired by her novel led to this very moment. Thank goodness he had decided to see what all the fuss was about.
He leaned back to look up at her. "Happy?"
Her eyes opened. A tenderness she seemed to have for only him softened her facial features.
"Beyond happy." She replied. "Even if our film had been hailed the biggest flop in cinematic history, I would be beyond happy for simply being with you." She kissed his lips. "Married to you." Her lips touched his neck. "Loving you." She traced the shell of his ear with her tongue.
In one smooth move he had her under him on their couch.
"I'm glad to see we are in complete agreement." He captured her lips once more in a kiss that he knew was only a mere line on a page of their own happily ever after story.
A/N Sorry this is so long in posting. With the move and all, I lost my notes so this chapter went in a whole new direction after Maxwell's plan LOL, plus there will be one more chapter after this to finish this storyline up. Thanks for being patient.
Masterlist
Song that Maxwell decides is perfect for the wedding: I Love You 3000
Song Addison and Holly decide is perfect for the wedding: Lost in Love
Chapter 15 Last Minute Jitters and Plans
The morning after, or rather afternoon, of the bachelor/bachelorette parties was a quiet time for the most part. Many were still abed while a few were beginning to stir. One in particular had awakened before everyone else and had come up with a planned surprise.
He only needed to wait out the duchess who was a key component to his plan.
Maxwell paced the confines of the kitchen, pausing only long enough to check the time. He knew she had too much to drink the night before. He had evidence of just how drunk she became. He hoped such would be enough to get her to fall in with his latest scheme.
He quickly sat down and tried to appear causal when he heard the first sets of footsteps approaching.
Olivia blinked against the sunlight streaming in through the windows as she painfully made her way to the coffeepot.
"You want me to get that for you?" Maxwell asked.
She jumped in surprise, thinking no one else was awake. She slowly shook her head in response then regretted moving at all.
"Quite a night, wasn't it?" Maxwell asked in a chipper tone.
"Yes." Olivia lifted the scalding black coffee to her lips in the hopes it would help with her hangover.
"Things got wild at the party." Maxwell continued.
"Did they?" Olivia wondered if she could make it back to her bedroom without wishing for death.
"Yorrik and Henry showed up." He replied. "Amanda kneed Henry in the..." He gestured toward his pelvis. "They wanted her to give up Thomas and marry one of them instead."
Olivia would have widened her eyes if they weren't permanently stuck in squint mode.
"I'm proud of her." She took a few steps toward the table and gave up at the first chair she came to.
Maxwell watched her rub her hand over her face, pressing hard against her forehead.
"She and Thomas snuck away after that." He told her with a suggestive wink. "I think her reaction to the proposals stirred up some heated romance in them."
Olivia didn't bother to respond. After seeing how Thomas was with Amanda, she knew she would never have to worry about him realizing what he had in her friend. Plus, she had taken the liberty of sneaking into their room to read his vows that he had written. She could now easily stand there and watch them get married.
"Some others really took on the party spirit after they left." Maxwell casually slid his phone over. "Have a look."
Olivia glanced down at his screen then froze.
It was a picture of herself, practically ripping Drake's shirt off.
"That isn't the only one." He boasted as he leaned over to show her others of them passionately making out. "I also have video footage of you and Drake--"
Olivia snatched the phone away from him to delete the evidence.
She felt a slight sense of panic overcome her when he merely smiled over her efforts.
"That isn't my only phone. I've got copies of all this and more."
Olivia's eyes narrowed. "What do you want from me?"
His smile grew over her cutting to the chase.
"Did you know that Amanda and Thomas don't have a song?"
Olivia's eyes narrowed even further.
Maxwell sighed sadly. "I got to thinking about it last night. They need something special during their reception for their first dance."
Olivia's glare took on a new level.
"I found a song that I think will work, given how their relationship came about." He ignored the death threat in her steady, blood shot gaze. "It's a duet. Ryan already agreed to sing the male part." His bright sea blue eyes met her flashing green. "And I believe I just found his duet partner."
Olivia swallowed the bitter retort of where he could shove his belief. "And if I refuse?"
"Then that is your choice." His smile dimpled. "After I find someone not as talented to sing, I'll post on Instagram all of the party pics I took."
Olivia knew she was beaten. As much as she hated it, she did admire Maxwell and his use of blackmail to get her to fall in with his plans. She also would have at least punched him in that stupid smiling face of his if this was for anyone other than Amanda.
"Fine." She snapped. "But everything must be deleted and there will be no discussions over anything you witnessed, heard, or suspect."
"Excellent!" Maxwell got up to retrieve her foods to help with her hangover. "You and Ryan will start practicing this afternoon."
*******************
Upstairs, Thomas began to stir. He cracked open his eyes and felt his lips curving over the sight of Amanda in the same t-shirt she had stolen from him the last time she had been drunk.
Feeling him turn over, she peeked over through her lashes. A sleepy smile flashed before cuddling closer within his arms.
"How do you feel?" Thomas softly asked.
"Fine." She murmured. "Not too much of a hangover. I think your methods last night helped."
"Good." He pressed a kiss to her forehead. "Now if we can survive the rehearsal dinner tonight, I think the rest will go quickly."
Amanda hummed her agreement.
"Are you nervous?"
She looked up at him. "Only over being the center of attention. Not over actually getting married."
Thomas met her lips in a tender kiss.
"How about you?" She asked. "After all, you're the one who never really planned on getting married. I on the other hand knew since I was a child that it was expected."
"I'm only nervous of what surprises our friends throw our way." He muttered. "That and if any of your former suitors pop up to object during the ceremony."
His lips curved even more when he felt her silent laughter.
"I'm not the only person with overly dramatic exes. One of us did date several actresses."
"True, though no strong feelings ever developed. I'm not concerned with my past coming to bother us."
The two fell silent as they thought of what the next thirty-six hours or so would bring.
"I wish it was this time two days from now." Amanda whispered. "Then we wouldn't have anything to worry about."
Thomas tightened his arms around her. "It will be before we know it."
*****************
The rehersal dinner...
So awkward.
Olivia had somehow managed to avoid Drake the entire day. She was almost grateful for Maxwell forcing her into practicing that sappy song over and over with Ryan in the guest house.
It was difficult to avoid him though when they were both part of the blasted wedding party.
"Olivia," he began, causing her a slight panic over not calling her Liv or Libby, "we need to talk about last--"
"I can't!" She practically screeched. "I have...bridesmaid stuff to do."
Her nerves were nearly shot the more she thought of how horribly embarrassing it would be to hear him say it was a drunken mistake.
"I need to tell you that I--" his mouth shut when she scurried off, grabbing Maxwell and Ryan along her exit.
**************
Thomas searched the area when he couldn't find his fiancee. He found Amanda standing once more on the stage where they would exchange their vows. As their friends began to make their way back to the mansion, he went to join her.
Her attention was directed toward the waves lapping the shore. When he stopped beside her, she slipped an arm around his waist.
His lips curved. "Anxious?"
She laughed, nodding her head. "I have so many thoughts of how wrong everything can go tomorrow."
He draped his arm around her shoulders, tugging her closer to his side. The gentle squeeze he gave her shoulder encouraged her to explain.
"I just know I'm going to trip or actually fall down when I walk down the aisle to you." Amanda's nose wrinkled in disdain. "And I think you are right, our exes and past will most likely come back to haunt us. What if Maxwell has some big surprise for us that--"
Thomas tilted her chin up, placing his lips over hers, to cut off her words.
The tension slowly eased as she wrapped both her arms around his waist. His hands lifted to cradle her face as their kiss deepened.
He smiled softly when they parted.
"I don't care if any or all of that happens tomorrow." He murmured. "All that matters is that by the end of the night, we will be married."
"Yes, but what if I embarass you in front of all your famous guests." Amanda persisted. "At least most of the nobles coming tomorrow are used to me losing all sense of grace whenever I'm nervous. I won't forgive myself if--"
He swept her in another kiss.
Her eyebrow lifted when they parted once more. "Mr. Hunt? Are you trying to distract me?"
"What do you think, Lady Bridgerton?" Thomas placed another kiss on her cheek.
"I think you are." Her eyes closed as his lips brushed her ear.
"That's why I'm determined to marry you tomorrow." He muttered. "Your intelligence has always impressed me."
Her laughter brought a smile to his face. Taking his hand in hers, she tugged him toward the mansion.
"I don't know if I should keep voicing my worries so that you continue to kiss me," she teased, "or not."
"I'm certain that between the two of us," he stopped her outside the door, "we can find another reason for me to kiss you."
****************
Thomas and Amanda were seperated by their friends the moment they stepped inside after the rehersal dinner. Thomas was left grumbling in the north wing of the manor while Amanda was tucked away on the opposite end.
"We aren't going to risk any bad luck occurring." Maxwell explained to her. "Tommorw night is going to be perfect."
Amanda shook her head with a smile at the notion. Knowing it was fruitless to even argue, she readied herself for her last night as Lady Amanda Bridgerton. Curling up in her solitary bed, she couldn't help but be excited over being introduced for the first time as Lady Amanda Hunt.
Thomas, meanwhile, paced about his room. He debated over every word he had written in his vows. Tomorrow had to be perfect. He would accept nothing less for Amanda than giving her a wedding she would not regret. He wanted it to be a memory she cherished instead of the event she had dreaded the last couple of weeks.
He wished he could have given her an elopement like she wanted. If it hadn't been for those scandalous pictures and Constantine's need to control Liam, they could be on the second week of marriage right now. There would have been nothing except looking forward to Liam's upcoming wedding and working on their film.
At the sound of a knock upon his door, Thomas quickly opened it in the hopes it was Amanda defying their friends edict.
To his disappointment, Ryan stood there with an amused smile gracing his handsome face.
"I could hear you pacing," he held up a tumbler filled with scotch, "so I brought this to calm your nerves."
Thomas's frown eased some. "I'm not nervous." He plucked the glass out of his hand. "But I thank you for the remedy."
Ryan chuckled over that. "Anytime." He nodded toward the bed. "Get some rest. We can't have the groom looking all haggard for his big day."
Thomas snorted.
"Surely you want to be at your best for your bride." He needled.
Thomas narrowed his eyes in silent warning.
Ryan saluted him. "See you tomorrow."
Once the door was closed, the groom took a longer than usual sip. He glanced at the door then his lonely bed. Softly groaning, he made himself settle into it for the night. The thought that this will be the last time he'd be kept from Amanda made him relax a bit.
"One more night." He reminded himself once he turned the lamp off.
***************
Around 3 a.m.
Thomas muttered in his sleep when he heard the annoying sound of tapping. He turned over, jerking the covers over his ear to muffle the sound.
His eyes popped open when he realized someone was at his door.
"Who is it?" He asked in a mere grumble.
He had no doubt it was one of his friends checking once again that he was still in his room.
"It's me."
Thomas tumbled out of bed on his way to open the door for Amanda.
"No!" She hissed, keeping a firm grip on the handle.
He stared at the cracked door in shock.
"It's after midnight." She whispered. "We aren't supposed to see each other."
"Amanda, surely you don't believe in that superstitious nonsense--"
"I don't." She bit down on her lip. "But I also don't want to take a chance on something horrible happening."
Thomas pulled on the door to try and open it.
"Stop it!" She ordered. "I shouldn't have come. I just needed..." She sighed. "I don't know what I need."
Silence fell between them.
"What can I do?" Thomas asked.
Amanda slipped her hand through the opening.
Smiling softly, he laced his fingers with hers, gently squeezing her hand.
In that simple touch, he felt the tension leave her body.
"That's what I needed." She admitted.
Thomas brushed a gentle kiss to her hand. Her fingers trailed down his cheek in a sweet caress.
"I better go before I'm caught." She whispered.
"Stay." He pleaded.
"I wish I could." He heard her breath catch when a creaking sound rent the air.
"Someone's on the stairs!" She barely whispered.
Thomas closed his eyes, grasped her hand, and yanked her into his room.
Her yelp was smothered against his chest.
"Now we'll have bad lu--are your eyes closed?"
He nodded, keeping them shut.
"I didn't want to upset you."
Amanda felt her heart melt even more at him humoring her even though he didn't believe any of the wedding superstitions.
She tugged him into a tender kiss.
He immediately pressed her up against the door to deepen it.
"Are you wearing another one of my shirts?" He asked, hands drifting over the soft cotton.
"I am." She admitted. "If I couldn't have you tonight, I at least had this to hold me while I slept."
Thomas felt his will nearly snap at what he once would have dubbed a ridiculously sappy line. Hearing it in Amanda's heartfelt tone though made him wish the wedding had already occured. He couldn't believe how much he felt for her.
He also couldn't believe she didn't realize the effect she had over him.
"I know." She continued, completely unaware of the feelings building within him. "It sounds silly. But I changed earlier into your shirt when I was tossing and turning."
Her hands raised to his face. Seeing he still had his eyes shut to put her at ease, she realized that all the superstitions were nonsense. Here was the proof that no matter what happened during the wedding, whether it be a storm or exes objecting or even her faceplanting coming down the aisle, she had someone willing to do whatever was needed to make her happy.
"Thomas, open your eyes." She said softly.
He did as she commanded. There in the dark depths, she could see the passion and love he had for her.
He tightened his arms around her when she moved further into his embrace.
"I'm not leaving you tonight." Amanda declared. "I don't care how many speeches I am given tomorrow from our friends."
Thomas smiled hearing exactly what he wanted as he leaned down to kiss her once more.
"Good. Because I didn't have any intention of letting you go."
*******************
The morning of the wedding...
"Good thing the wedding is tonight." Addison quickly whipped out some needle and thread. "Or we would really be pressed for time."
Holly tried to remain still as her friend stitched up a small rip along the zipper of her gown.
"One more time." She muttered, reviewing all the plans. "We leave for the beach around five for pictures. Wedding at six. Pictures once more. Reception at seven. First dance at..." Her brow furrowed. "Do we know what song they are to dance to?"
Addison stilled. "Oh no. Holly!" She gripped her friend's waist and gave her a hard shake. "They don't have a song!"
"Calm down." Holly ordered. "We'll just pick a song for them to have ready for their first dance."
"We can't pick just any song!" Addison couldn't believe how cavalier her partner in crime was over this. "It has to be something that explains the type of love they have!"
"Okay." Holly said slowly as if trying to placate a truly demented person. "Do you have any suggestions?"
"Yes, I do. We listen to some love songs and go from there." Addison swiped Holly's tablet out of her hands.
"How long is this going to take?" Holly asked when she saw the playlists Addison was lining up.
"Hours."
"Hours?! Addi, you know I love and support even your craziest of ideas, but we don't have hours to spend on finding them a freaking song to share one stupid dance..."
Holly trailed off when her usually sunny best friend leveled a glare that sent fear pickling throughout her body.
"Fine." She huffed, slumping into a chair. "Let's pick them out a song."
"The perfect song." Addison corrected.
"Just hit play." Holly grumbled.
********************
In another part of the mansion...
"That was perfect!" Maxwell clapped. "You two are going to bring the guests to tears."
Olivia tossed him the microphone. "Can I leave now and do practically anything else?"
Ryan chuckled as he handed his over too. "I need to do a last minute check on the groom and make certain he is actually awake.
"I think we're good to go." Maxwell pulled them both into a group hug. "This gift of mine is going to blow Amanda and Thomas away."
"Gift of yours?" Olivia wiggled out of the embrace. "Ryan and I are doing all the work."
"But you wouldn't be without my brillant idea." Maxwell reminded her. "Plus, I didn't buy a gift since they already have everything in multiple homes." He shrugged with a dimpled grin. "This is at least a thoughtful gift."
Olivia shook her head as she left them, grumbling under her breath about blackmail and revenge.
*****************
In Thomas's room a few hours later...
"So?" Chris asked. "How's the nerves so far?"
"I'm not nervous." Thomas responded.
"Not even a little?" Matt added.
"No." Thomas frowned more when he had trouble buttoning his shirt.
Perhaps he was a little nervous.
Liam chuckled as the two actors continued to tease him.
"Once it is all over, you two can relax at your reception." He told Thomas. "Eat, drink, and dance the night away."
Thomas's frown eased some at the thought. That was exactly what he wanted to happen. He wanted nothing more than to see Amanda smiling up at him when she heard what he had chosen for--
"I forgot about the first dance." Thomas muttered. He rushed to find his phone.
"What about it?" Chris jumped out of his path. "You know how to dance."
"It isn't that. I forgot to send the song I wanted for our first one. I told Amanda I had the one I thought matched us, especially in terms of my personality."
"Your personality?" Matt grinned. "I can't wait to hear it."
Thomas snorted softly before contacting the one they had hired to take care of the music.
Once all was settled, he noticed the knowing smiles on the three men's faces.
"That song is indeed perfect." Liam complimented.
*****************
5:55 p.m. at the beach...
"I've found it!" Addison ripped her ear buds out as she ran over to Holly.
"Good." Holly removed the one ear bud she had in while trying to finish checking on the caterers. "I'll send it to the DJ."
"It is so over the top cheesy and perfect for how Thomas decided to go after Amanda and then be in a secret relationship." Addison handed her phone over.
"Air Supply?!" Holly snickered. "You picked one of their songs for Thomas. You really did go down the cheesy rabbit hole for this one."
"I know!" Addison giggled. "Isn't it great?"
"We better hurry back." Holly sent a quick text to add the song to the night's program. "It's time for us bridesmaids to walk down the aisle."
(Thomas Hunt x oc*Amanda) in a Choices Red Carpet Diaries/The Royal Romance Crossover drabble.
A/N This is actually a fic I have had sitting in my draft folders forever. Someone a while back requested another first time meeting gone horribly wrong for this OTP and I kept getting stuck on the ending. Once more, let’s get these two stubborn people together, LOL!
Olivia quirked an eyebrow in question as Amanda walked into her suite.
Instead of the usual calm, sweet greeting followed by an attempt to coerce her into doing something fun, Amanda threw her purse across the room and let out a strange, strangled noise that sounded suspiciously like a string of curse words trying to be smothered by guilt.
"I would ask what is wrong, but I assume you are about to tell me." Olivia drily remarked.
"Remember when I was excited that Maxwell invited us all to come here and see how The Royal Romance movie was going?" Amanda asked.
"I believe I recall you skipping down the palace halls." Olivia responded.
Amanda narrowed her eyes at her. "Well, the skipping is done." She flopped face down on Olivia's couch. "I hate everything here." She mumbled into the cushions.
Olivia rolled her eyes. "Must we succumb to overly dramatic behavior?"
Amanda turned her face toward her. "Are you seriously asking me this when just last week you threatened to throw every dagger you had at the waiter for accidentally calling you Madeleine?"
Olivia flicked her hand dismissively. "Details." She sat down in a chair across from her friend. "What happened?"
Amanda closed her eyes. "It all started this morning."
****************
Around 8 a.m., The Beverly Wilshire...
"Wake up!" Maxwell burst into Amanda's suite and proceeded to jump on her bed.
"Wha?" Amanda rolled off of it in a tangle of blankets. "What time is it?"
"Time for you to get ready and go to the studio." He leaped off her bed and went straight to her closet. "Hmm." He pulled one dress out after another. "Is this all you packed?"
Amanda stumbled over to the closet. "Why are you going through my clothes?"
He finally settled on a skirt and sweater. "I need you to go to the studio and give this to Thomas Hunt.” He held up a large manila envelope. "Within this lies the very heart of The Royal Romance."
She blinked sleepily a few times. "Why do I have to do this?" She gestured toward his body. "You're already dressed and fully compos mentis."
His dimples deepened with his grin. "You shouldn't use Latin if you are trying to get out of this with the excuse that you are dumb with sleep." He gently pushed her into the bathroom. "Get ready. I arranged a surprise for you."
"What kind of sur--" her words were cut off by him shutting the door.
She dropped her head back in frustration while going through a list of reasons why she shouldn't crawl back into bed. It was then followed by a list of reasons of what Maxwell would do to get her to do this. After a quick three minutes of debate, she reluctantly started the shower.
****************
Olivia’s suite
"So, this is about making you get up early this morning?" Olivia snorted. "This is why I don't give my room keys to anyone."
"It wasn't that horrific event that cemented this burning hatred of mine." Amanda turned over on her back and stared up at the ceiling. "It was that jerk, Thomas Hunt."
Olivia did not bother to hide her surprise. "Wasn't he the reason you had that little hop to your skipping?"
Amanda closed her eyes. "They say never meet your heroes."
"He's a hero?!" Olivia wrinkled her nose in disgust. "Does the man even know how to fight?"
"I don't mean that kind of hero!" Amanda muttered. She let out another strangled, frustrated sound. "I admired him. His movies are some of my favorites."
"And you certainly never shied away from admiring his underwear modeling days." Olivia artfully dodged to the right when Amanda threw a decorative pillow at her. "Wasn't there a poster in your bedroom at one point?"
“FINE! I THOUGHT HE WAS ATTRACTIVE!" Amanda shouted. "Today proved differently."
"Was he not in his underwear?" Olivia easily batted a second throw pillow away that was aimed for her face. "What did he do?"
****************
Earlier that day, at the studio…
"I've seen your picture in magazines."
Amanda smiled at the intern escorting her toward Thomas Hunt's office. "Hopefully, I didn't look like I normally do." She shuddered. "I take horrible photographs."
"I thought you looked pretty." The hopeful actress replied. "You and Queen Riley were laughing at Maxwell Beaumont."
Amanda chuckled at that. "So, a normal day was photographed?"
The girl's phone vibrated. "I have to go handle this." She apologized to the duchess. "Mr. Hunt's office is the last door on the left."
"Thank you." Amanda watched her leave, then pulled out Maxwell's packet for the script. "Why did I agree to deliver this?" She mumbled as she continued down the long hallway.
When she reached the door, she paused before knocking. Voices raised in what sounded like anger could be heard.
Not wanting to walk in on an argument, Amanda checked to make certain no one else was in the hallway. She then pressed her ear to the door.
******************
"You know I don't have time to cater to a rich, spoiled woman! Maxwell is now suggesting that I take this--" Thomas checked the text message once more. "This Lady Amanda on not only a more in-depth tour of the studio but also to some of the historical sites around Los Angeles." He slammed a drawer shut to help rid himself of his mounting irritation. "If I ever act remotely interested in another story from some playboy royal, you have my permission to have me committed to the nearest asylum."
Holly rolled her eyes at his dramatic outburst. "Then don't take her out. It's a simple fix."
"If Maxwell's unhappy then the studio heads will become upset." He explained. "Next, it rolls downhill on us." He glared out the window. "What right does this duchess have to demand I take her around as her glorified tour guide?!"
"It might not be so bad." Addison pointed out. "She must be important to Maxwell if he asked you to do this."
"Apparently she is his bff or whatever acronym he used." Thomas spat. "I would rather deal with practically anyone else on this planet than babysit some snobbish, probably doesn't even know how to act in public, idiotic woman."
******************
Amanda took a step bac from his door. Her heart sank at discovering the director she had so admired was in truth a spoiled jerk.
Her lips firmed in a frown as her anger slowly took over her sadness.
“He--I’ll show--oohhh!” She gasped, unable to get a complete insult out.
She took a deep breath and returned to the receptionist desk. “Something has come up.” Amanda explained. “Would you mind giving Maxwell’s notes to Mr. Hunt?” She nearly strangled on his name.
“No problem.” The young intern replied. She tilted her head in question. “Are you okay?”
Amanda nodded quickly. “I am.” Or at least I will be once I get away from here, she thought. I will NEVER spend a moment in that loathsome man’s company.
******************
"I don't think I have ever seen you this angry." Olivia's eyebrows were lifted in surprise as she observed Amanda pacing about the suite. "Why didn't you confront him?"
"Because I don't do that kind of thing." Amanda snapped. She quickly apologized to her friend. "You know I try and be nice to everyone." Her eyes narrowed. "Something about that man got under my skin. How dare he judge me without meeting me?!"
Olivia's lips turned up somewhat. "What will you do when we are all at the set tomorrow?"
"Maybe I shouldn't go." Amanda muttered. "I can't embarrass Maxwell by setting Thomas Hunt straight."
"Now I'm making you go." Olivia announced. "I think it's time you felt that sweet relief of finally unleashing your temper." Her smile grew. "You don't know what you have been missing all these years."
“We’ll see.” Amanda murmured. “Do you know where Maxwell is?”
“No. Why?”
“Because I am going to make sure that I am never put in the path of Thomas Hunt again.”
*************
The Blvd restaurant, The Beverly Wilshire...
"There you are." Amanda said between clenched teeth.
Maxwell looked up. "Hey! How did the meeting go?"
She sat down across from him. "Why did you decide to ask Thomas Hunt of all people to give me a tour?!"
His blue eyes widened when he realized she was upset. "Because you've always been crazy about him."
"I have not." She snapped, refusing to accept she remotely found the director anything other than repulsive.
"Really?" Maxwell folded his arms on the table and leaned forward. "I would like to present to the jury, exhibit A: The Calvin Klein poster of one man, Thomas Hunt, in nothing but boxer briefs." He shuddered at the memory. "I still suffer from PTSD whenever I see your closet door cracked open."
Angry spots of color appeared on her cheeks. "I was young and stupid and had horrible taste in men."
"Exhibit B: You own all his movies, including the one he has a brief cameo in." Maxwell continued.
"I own a lot of movies." Amanda muttered. "He just happens to make some."
"Exhibit C:," Maxwell pointed out. "When I told you, I had been offered a chance to have The Royal Romance turned into a film, you literally chanted that Thomas Hunt needs to direct until I talked to my agent."
"I wanted your story to earn critical acclaim." Amanda averted her eyes.
"Exhibit D--"
"Enough!" Amanda hissed. "I get it, okay?" She leaned forward, looking directly into his eyes. "Don't ever force me to--"
"Thomas!" Maxwell yelled out, waving toward the director.
Amanda felt her stomach drop when she felt his angry presence pause behind her right shoulder.
"Maxwell." Thomas greeted curtly. “I waited for as long as I could on your,” his tone hardened, “Lady Amanda, but she never showed up.”
Maxwell turned his attention to her. “You didn’t deliver my notes?”
"I did." Amanda snapped, her eyes darted to Thomas. "But I didn’t want to spend a single second in your company."
His eyes widened. "I beg your pardon, what--"
"I refuse to spend the day with a man who so readily judges a person without meeting them." Her chin lifted. "You made it quite clear this morning what you think of me."
Thomas remembered his intern bringing in Maxwell's notes. "You were the one who came by today." His temper snapped. "On top of everything, you listened in on a conversation that wasn't any of your business. Why am I not surprised?" He mocked.
Amanda moved quickly out of the booth until she was standing directly in front of him. Her eyes flashed as heated color flooded her cheeks. "It wasn't hard since you were yelling like a petulant child." Her mocking smile appeared. "I'm grateful that I found out what type of egotistical, judgmental, miserable old man you truly are before being forced to accept your escort anywhere."
"Nowhere nearly as much as I am." Thomas barked, stung by her insults. "I wouldn't escort you a single inch across this room. You've proven that I should continue to trust my gut instinct when it comes to people like you." He bowed in an exagerated insult. "Thank you, Lady Amanda, it has been a pleasure that I hope is never repeated."
Unable to think of a proper insult, Amanda’s eyes sparked with unshed tears. She didn’t want to give this wretched man the satisfaction of thinking he had hurt her to the point of crying.
Without a word, she shoved past him and quickly left the restaurant.
"I had that going differently in my mind." Maxwell said once Thomas sat down. "Maybe after she cools off, the two of you could--"
"Maxwell, there will never be the two of us if Amanda is a part of that equation." Thomas stated firmly. "I will never spend a moment alone with her."
****************
Olivia’s suite, again…
"You should have used one of the butter knives on him." Olivia told her. "I've trained you in the places on the human body that will cause the most pain."
Amanda sighed.
"At least you stood up for yourself." Olivia continued.
Amanda nodded silently.
"Don't tell me you regret this?" Olivia prodded at the lack of verbal response.
"I'm exhausted." Amanda finally said. "I haven't lost my temper like that in years." She ran her hands over her face. "I just stopped by to let you know I'm not going out tonight." She got up and gave a swift hug to Olivia. "Thank you for letting me vent again."
"Don't let that man keep you from going out." Olivia ordered. "Take a nap. I'll make certain you're not disturbed, and we can join everyone else for dinner."
Amanda neither agreed nor disagreed. She gave a halfhearted smile and left.
****************
That night...
"I want everyone who has a spare key to my suite to return them." Amanda announced at dinner.
Maxwell and Olivia ignored her request.
Drake quirked an eyebrow at her. "How many keys were you given?"
"I thought just one." Her eyes narrowed. "Yet, I've had no less than four people enter my room today."
Hana blushed and handed her key card over. "Maxwell told me to help with picking out a dress or two."
Riley slid hers over. "Me too."
"I appreciate the concern." She narrowed her eyes on Maxwell as he raised his menu up to hide his face. "But it is not necessary." Her bitterness then settled on Olivia. "Nor was the wakeup call."
The red head merely shrugged. "I'm not going to allow you to lock yourself away to wallow in guilt and misery over Thomas Hunt."
"I wasn't wallowing!" Amanda snapped. "I was sleeping because Maxwell woke me up after at practically the crack of dawn!"
"As soon as you awoke, you would have started the misery and guilt trip." Olivia calmly stated. "It never fails to happen once you lose your temper."
"It's true." Maxwell added.
Amanda slumped in her chair. All the fight left her. She knew they were right.
“Don’t worry about Thomas.” Maxwell told her. “Tomorrow, he’ll be so busy with the movie that he won’t even notice you’re there.”
*****************
The next day...
Thomas surreptitiously peeked over the script each time he heard Amanda's voice or laughter. Seeing her this way made sense that she was friends with the group whose story he was filming.
She wasn't the irrational shrew he had unleashed the day before.
She looked like a different person. Gone was her insulting temper. For some reason, he was puzzled by her appearance. She hadn't bothered to wear any jewelry other than a watch, which she kept glancing at. He expected her to dress according to her station. Yet she looked like she would easily blend in with a crowd.
He suspected that he would have spotted her immediately.
His eyes moved down her figure when the group followed Addison, leaving him to review today's schedule. Since their altercation, he had been unable to get her off his mind. He had even dreamed about her.
It was disturbing that he woke up in a cold sweat over her. The dream had him ending their fight differently. That was the last thing he wanted to do with her.
Thomas couldn't hear what she was saying, but the entire group were laughing at an observation she made.
He swallowed the last of his coffee and decided to get another cup as the group moved closer to craft services.
"Where are you going?" Holly asked.
"Coffee." He muttered, wondering why Amanda wouldn't look his way. He had expected glares the entire time, not being completely ignored.
“Three cups of coffee wasn’t enough?” she asked.
"What?" He asked.
"You've had three cups." Holly pointed out. "You never have more than that in the morning."
He couldn't think of a clever enough retort, so he walked off without a response.
"This might be my favorite part of filmmaking." Maxwell teased as he reached for one of the fresh pastries Addison offered.
Amanda's smile disappeared when Thomas approached. She moved away from the table, pretending interest in a prop, when he came along next to her for the coffee pot.
He glanced at her back, deciding to force her to acknowledge his presence. "Is there anything I can get you, Lady Bridgerton?"
Her shoulders stiffened. Without looking at him, she automatically responded. "No thank you." Before Thomas could say anything else, she quickly walked over to the set that was a recreation of the palace's hedge maze lit by moonlight.
Her lips curved. She was impressed with the attention to detail the film crew had done. She walked the familiar path, turning to see the swing she had spent a great deal of her childhood on.
Thomas appeared beside her.
She stubbornly looked straight ahead.
"What do you think?" He prodded.
"About what?" She responded, folding her arms across her chest.
"The soundstage? The sets?" He motioned around. "I know you were wanting to tour a studio. Does this meet your approval?"
"It does." She couldn't quite hide her excitement at seeing something like this in person. "I find it fascinating."
He blinked at her words. "I'm…glad."
She stiffened once more at having inadvertently complimented him and tried to get around the hateful man. "If you will excuse me,"
"Perhaps I can--"He began, surprised at the thought of trying to rectify her opinion of him.
“Good day, Mr. Hunt." She tried to escape yet saw that he blocked her path. When he seemed unable to move, she squeezed past.
Their bodies brushed one another, causing her to pause.
Their eyes met and she quickly wiggled free.
He watched her hurry off to rejoin the others.
Thomas tossed his untouched coffee in the garbage and returned to work.
*******************
A few days later, they bumped into each other inside the hotel.
"Lady Bridgerton." He gently grasped her arms. "Nice to see you again."
She grit her teeth. "Please stop calling me Lady." Her eyes narrowed. "Since I discovered your opinion on nobles, I know you mean it as a verbal jab."
He quirked an eyebrow. "Then what should I call you?"
"Amanda." She replied. "But I don't believe I will hear it often since we will never spend more time together." She smirked and left him.
He knew he was supposed to meet with Maxwell, but instead decided to follow her into the hotel's restaurant.
He talked the hostess into seating him in a booth beside Amanda's. He couldn't recall a time in his life when he desired to annoy anyone as much as he did her.
He settled his gaze on her after ordering a drink.
Amanda gripped her menu and purposefully kept her eyes averted.
After a few moments, she dropped her head into her hands. "Why are you trying to drive me crazy?" She practically pleaded. "You can’t stand me, yet you sit there on purpose to stare!"
"You never allow me to finish what I’m saying.” He countered, scooting around his booth.
“Why should I?” she snapped. “You are only going to hurl more insults my way.”
“How do you know?” He asked. “Do you dare presume to know my mind?”
She scooted closer, eyes narrowing. "You don't like me!" She hissed. "And I'm not too fond of you." Her eyes searched his. "Why are you trying to talk to me? I made certain to not bother you at the studio and have not returned each day when the others have."
Thomas propped his arm on the seat and leaned closer to her. "I don't know." His eyes touched on her hair softly curling toward her cheek, guiding his eyes to her lips. "But you have been on my mind." His eyes lifted to hers. "Perhaps it is because I have yet to meet the real you. I’ve seen you at your worst, and yet with those you care for…you’re a completely different person. Who is the real, Lady Amanda?"
"I assure you; this is the real me. Regardless of how irritated I am at the moment this is me!" She quickly thanked the waitress for her drink. "Now, I think we--"
"That we should eat together, I agree." Thomas rose and told the waitress he would be joining Amanda.
He slid into the booth, bumping into the shocked duchess. "I recommend the lobster frittata."
"I'm allergic to shellfish." She said in a stunned voice.
"Then I will order something else." He remarked. "I'll have the steak and eggs." He handed his menu to the waitress. "Shall we have a bottle of champagne with brunch?"
Amanda absentmindedly ordered the cheeseburger. Once they were alone, she settled back against the seat, intent on pretending she was dining alone.
"I'm considering taking time off once filming wraps up." Thomas announced.
"What about the sequels?" Amanda forgot about her plan to ignore him. "You aren't going to let someone else direct, are you?"
He shook his head, turning more toward her. "The screenplay for the second part hasn't been completed yet. Ryan and Chris both have obligations to other directors that they will complete in between the first and second part."
"I see." She tried to ease away from being so close beside him, but her skirt was caught under his leg. He apparently was not inclined to give up his hold on her.
"Amanda, have you been on any other tours?" He asked when she became stubbornly silent again.
"I have." She replied. Her smile held a hint of mischief. "Ryan took me to some points of interest."
Thomas narrowed his eyes. "Did he?"
"Yes." She propped her chin on her hand, attempting to have a dreamy far off look. "He was a perfect gentleman."
"He's seeing someone." He informed her, wondering at this new irritation he felt.
Amanda shrugged. "Like I said, he was a perfect gentleman."
"I expect to hear news of his engagement at any moment." Thomas continued.
"Then perhaps you should be drinking champagne with him." She kept a pleasant smile on her face. "For you and I have nothing to celebrate over."
"I disagree." He countered.
"Of course, you do." She pointed at his shirt. "I would call this blue, but I'm positive you would say it was another color."
"I always thought it was more gray than blue." He said to purposefully needle her.
She ran her fingers through her hair. "Of course, you would."
Their food was brought out and each focused on eating while ignoring the emotions the other was causing.
He poured her a glass of champagne then lifted his in a toast. "To expectations."
She searched his eyes for some hidden meaning then tapped her glass to his. "Cheers."
"What are your plans today?" He asked.
She set her glass down. "I'm going to see a movie."
"Really?" He slowly smiled. "What will you be--"
"There you are!" Maxwell walked over, his dimples deepening with his delighted grin. "I must have forgotten we were to meet down here."
Amanda took that moment to jerk her skirt out from under Thomas' thigh. She smiled with her newfound freedom. "I was just on my way out." She wished them both a good afternoon and escaped.
"I knew you two would hit it off." Maxwell boasted.
"And when exactly is that supposed to happen?" Thomas asked.
************
A few nights later...
"Everyone knows the drill." Maxwell whispered.
"Yes." Hana reassured him. "I spill my drink on Amanda."
"I drop a plate in Thomas's lap." Addison whispered.
"They are both forced to go to the master bathroom because I have food poisoning in the hall bathroom." Riley added.
"I get everyone to move to our suite." Liam added.
"I turn everything off." Holly glanced over her shoulder to make certain no one was near enough to hear.
"And I lock them in the bedroom." Maxwell announced.
"What about the phone situation?" Ryan whispered.
"Bastien is confiscating everyone's phone for security purposes." Drake explained. "And I have already removed the hotel phones from the bedroom and living room."
"You all have your missions." Maxwell looked around at his group. "Good luck."
Addison and Hana nearly bounced with excitement as they took their places.
****************
Thomas sat down when Addison insisted yet again. "I still don't see how this helps the crick in your neck."
She rubbed the side while rolling her head. "Because it doesn’t hurt tilting it down, only up." She huffed. "You're too tall."
She eyed Hana and watched as the graceful lady stumbled, splashing her glass of wine down Amanda's dress.
"I'm so sorry!" Tears filled Hana's eyes. She grasped Amanda's hand and dragged her into the bedroom.
"I have something that will help get this out before it stains." Hana made Amanda remain in the bathroom. "It's in my room. I'll be right back."
Addison waited patiently, keeping Thomas talking. She then saw Hana give her the sign.
"...and then we should--" Thomas jumped to his feet when Addison dropped her plate.
"Oh my gosh!" She exclaimed. "I'm sorry! I didn't mean to."
He brushed her hand away and went toward the bathroom. He heard Riley's sounds of sickness and quickly backtracked.
"There's a bathroom in the bedroom." Maxwell pushed him toward it.
"Thank you." Thomas stepped inside and opened the bathroom door.
Amanda whirled around. "You startled me."
He glanced down at the red stain on her peach colored dress. "My apologies. We both seem to be the ones with accident prone friends tonight."
She wet a rag for him. His fingers brushed hers when he reached for it. Their eyes lifted to one another's.
Amanda looked away first. "You should take your jacket off first."
He shrugged out of it, thanking her when she offered to hold it for him. Thomas brushed at the different stains on his shirt and tie.
She did the same with his jacket.
The two worked quietly.
"Do you hear that?" She asked once the water was turned off.
He stilled. "I don't hear anything."
"Exactly!" The two hurried to the bedroom door.
It wouldn't open.
Amanda knocked on it. "Maxwell! We're stuck in here!"
Thomas leaned his ear against it. "There's no noise out there."
"I'll call someone to--" she twirled around. "Where are the phones?"
They searched throughout the drawers and closets. Nothing except a pair of pajamas and a nightgown were in the drawers.
"What is going on?" Amanda wailed, slowly backing away.
"I think," Thomas began, recognizing his pajamas from home. "that Maxwell and the others want us to spend the night together."
**************
After changing their ruined clothes, the two sat down on the bed. It seemed that Maxwell had removed the chairs that had also resided there. He had also had the television removed.
"Now what do we do?" Amanda asked. "It's only eight thirty."
Thomas tried to keep from staring at her in her silk nightgown.
She guessed that Riley and Hana had taken it earlier that day when they kept having her try on dresses. His eyes traveled up her legs --
"Why don't we talk? Settle this...whatever this is between us?" He suggested as she stood up to pace.
Amanda quit her agitated movements and sat down in a breathless huff. She reclined on the pillows and attempted to not stare at how sexy Thomas looked in pajamas. That little bit of hair flopping over his forehead softened his angular features, making her want to run her fingers through his hair as his lips touched--
"I expected you to be different." Amanda began, lowering her eyes. "I think this might be as much my fault as yours."
Thomas stretched out beside her. "What do you mean about expecting me to be different?"
She ran a hand through her hair. "I guess I expected you to be nice." She grimaced. "I thought we would get along. Perhaps become friends or...something."
"I see." He said softly. "And I ruined that when you overheard, that I was expecting the worst."
"Yes, I mean," she dropped her head back on the pillow. "I was so disappointed that you were like so many people I have encountered at court. That you were so set on disliking me…I just thought why bother even trying to be nice."
“Ah.” He snorted softly. “And in my preconceived notions, I decided you had proven me right.”
“And now we are being tortured by our so-called friends.”
He turned his head toward her. "I don't feel tortured right now."
She turned too and realized how close their faces were. "You don't?"
He focused on her mouth. Perhaps he was being tortured. "No, I actually like being around you like this."
"So not hostile or hurling insults at you?" She teased.
He surprised her with a sudden smile. "If we must make that distinction, then yes, I prefer this version to any of the others I have encountered."
Her burst of laughter made him scoot closer to her.
“I must admit, it has been exhausting remaining angry around you.” Her warm smile was focused on him for the first time. “You sir, have kept me on my toes during every altercation.”
“You have been a worthy adversary.” Thomas chuckled when she solemnly thanked him. “I haven’t’ wanted to annoy any woman as much as I have you.”
The pair became quiet in thought after sharing another laugh.
Amanda turned on her side and studied his face. "Thomas?"
"Hmm?"
"Why do you think we have been snapping at each other all this time?"
"You've been doing most of the snapping lately." He reminded her.
"I suppose I have." She admitted. "Why have you been chasing after me though since I have been, you know?"
"Cruel?" He offered. "Cold? Mean?"
"I get the picture." She grumbled. "I apologize for my rudeness."
"I told you once before I wasn't certain what it is about you, but I think I might have solved the mystery." He inched closer.
"And that is?" She asked.
"I think we have some unresolved sexual tension." Thomas waited to see what her response might be.
He didn't expect laughter.
"Hold on.” she said once she saw he was serious. "You find me attractive?"
"I did even when I despised you." He admitted.
Amanda blinked. "Oh."
He cleared his throat. When she still remained silent, he prodded her. "Any chance you find me attractive?"
"I do." Was her hurried response. "I mean, I always thought you were handsome."
"Being thought handsome is not the same as being attractive." He reminded her. "Do you find Liam handsome?"
"Of course, I do." She sighed, knowing where he was going with this. "And no, I am not physically attracted to Liam."
Thomas gently placed his hand over hers. "Then, should we use this time to test out the waters? See if the fights can cease once and for all after we discover what this is?”
Amanda slowly nodded. Before she could think too hard about all the ways this could backfire, he had pulled her flush to him. Her breath caught as he tucked a lock of hair behind her ear.
His fingertips slipped down her neck and over her shoulder, sliding down before coming back up. She closed her eyes as he caressed her skin. His eyes followed his hand before flickering up to her parted lips. He closed the distance and placed a tentative kiss to them.
And then they knew why they had been fighting so much.
**************
The next morning…
“There’s no noise.” Maxwell whispered. He had his ear pressed to the bedroom door.
“Either they are asleep, or they killed each other.” Olivia hissed. “I’m hoping he is at least bleeding out in there.” She smacked Maxwell on the back of the head. “Why did you persist in putting them together?”
“Because I know what I’m doing as a matchmaker.” He grumbled. “If you would only listen to me about you and Dra—“
She put her hand over his mouth. “I’m warning you, Maxwell. Do not ever link my name with his again.”
Addison pushed between them and pressed her ear to the door. “I say we leave their clothes here and quietly unlock the bedroom door. “I don’t want to walk in on something I shouldn’t see.”
“Good idea.” Maxwell carefully removed the chair he had wedged under the doorknob. He then unlocked the door and jumped back in case one decided to open it.
As his coconspirators sneaked out of the room, he quickly jotted down an apology in case he had been wrong and slipped it under the bedroom door.
Just as he was about to leave, the note was slipped back with a response written.
You better book another suite for yourself. This one is ours now.
(Thomas Hunt x OC*Amanda) in a Choices Red Carpet Diaries Drabble
A/N Not a part of any of my AU's for this particular pair, yet I thought the idea for this seemed to match them, LOL. Plus I love seeing Thomas give in to love and romance. And I've been holding on to the above photo for a prompt like this.
"I don't understand." Amanda's brow furrowed. "I thought you wanted us to keep out of the press until we knew how we felt about one another."
"That was only part of it." Thomas pulled her closer in his embrace. "I knew from the moment we met how deep my feelings for you would be." His lips grazed hers. "But since I haven't been in a serious relationship in years, the paparazzi will never allow us to step out the door without hounding us to death."
"And that's why you won't go as my date?" Amanda eased out of his arms.
"I think they suspect that there is something more here than mere friendship." He replied. "If I show up at the gala with you, that will all but confirm our relationship."
Amanda stepped back to sit in a chair. "I see."
Thomas sat on the couch, watching her warily. Something about her tone and expression had him concerned.
"You don't know how articles, interviews, and pictures can play havoc with a couple, much less when the two live in different countries."
Amanda folded her arms, keeping her eyes adverted. "Trust me. I do know the power of the press."
He relaxed somewhat. "Then you aren't upset."
Her lips parted to say her usual no. Then it struck her that she shouldn't downplay her feelings about this. If what they had was what she suspected, then she needed to be upfront with him.
"Actually, I am upset." Her eyes lifted to his. "I don't care about the press taking pictures of us. I'm happy being with you."
He reached for her hand. "I'm happy with you too. But having our relationship under a microscope will be difficult." He laced his fingers with hers. "If I am captured not smiling like a fool each time we are caught out together, then they will start the stories that there is trouble between us. If you are seen at court speaking with another man, then they'll say I've been replaced. It will become ridiculous."
"I can ignore them." Amanda argued. "I would think that you could too."
His eyes narrowed. "I do ignore them on a regular basis."
"Not if you are afraid to be accused of having a romantic relationship with me." She yanked her hand away. "I thought there was something..." She took a deep breath. "I thought we were moving forward to deeper emotions."
Thomas rose off the couch to pace. He knew he was in love with her. He had actually planned on this particular visit to tell her what was in his heart.
But to put all this out there...reveal the vulnerability she had caused in him to the world...he didn't want to risk losing her.
Hadn't he seen through the years how the press had a hand in destroying marriages and relationships within the film industry with nothing more than a few photos and suspicious headlines?
"Amanda, I--"
She waited for him to say something to prove to her that there was something here, that she hadn’t been fooling herself these last few months.
When he continued to struggle with the words, she pushed herself out of the chair.
"Right then." She smoothed her skirt down. "I have a plane to catch if I am to arrive in Nappa in time." She gathered her purse and coat. "I promised Rashad that I would help him with the speech he has to deliver tomorrow night."
Thomas took a step forward. "How long will you be gone?"
She shrugged. "I thought I would be gone just the weekend." She avoided looking at him. "I don't know when I will be back in Los Angeles now."
His eyes widened. "What do you mean?"
"I mean that I need time to think." Amanda looked up to see how he was taking her decision. "I don't like being kept a secret as if you are either afraid of someone finding out you are no longer single or that you are ashamed of me."
"That's preposterous!" He snapped. "You know you are the only one I have been dating since the night we met. Those that I am closest to know we are together. Why would you--"
"I want us to have a future." She interrupted.
Her voice cracked on the word future. She closed her eyes briefly before trying to speak calmly once more.
"That includes not hiding that from the world." She pressed a kiss to his cheek. "Goodbye, Thomas."
Before he could respond, she walked out of his home and possibly out of his life.
****************
Later that night...
"I thought you were bringing Amanda with you." Addison stood on tiptoes to look around the crowded party.
"She needed to leave earlier than she expected." Thomas grumbled.
"I thought you were planning on going with her." Holly pointed out.
"Er, no." He tried to get away from their questions. "We decided I should remain behind."
"Why?" Addison persisted.
He ordered a drink and pretended he hadn't heard her question.
"Why?" She repeated. "Didn't she want you to be her date for the ball?"
He downed his drink, motioning for a refill. "Yes."
"Then why are you here?" Holly prodded. "Are you planning on flying out tomorrow?"
"No." He winced at the burning gulp he took.
Addison and Holly shared a look.
"Did you...did you break up?"
His silence caused alarm.
"No!" Addison gripped his arm, forcing him to acknowledge her. "You two aren't through, are you?"
"I--" he finished his drink, slamming the glass down. "She said she needed time to think."
"About what?" Holly snapped. "You two were perfectly happy at dinner the other night."
He tried to shake off Addison's tenacious grip. "This does not concern you."
"On the contrary." Holly grabbed ahold of his other arm. "We care about you and her."
The lid on his temper was being held by a mere thread. "It is a ridiculous difference of opinion." He wrenched his arms free. "Nothing more."
"Difference of opinion about what exactly?" Holly and Addison dogged his steps.
He knew they would follow him the rest of the night if he didn't tell them. Finding an empty room, he motioned them inside.
Once the door was closed, he explained the issue.
"Wait a minute." Addison held up her hands. "You're afraid of the press?" Her tone hardened. "Are you insane?!"
He glared silently at her.
Holly observed him closely. "You love her, don't you." She took her glasses off to tap against her chin while she tilted her head in thought. The revelation grew clearer. "And that is what scares you."
"I--" he sputtered. "That's beside the--you--"
"Get over yourself!" Addison snapped. "Who cares if the paparazzi follow you from now until you two have a household of babies? You're going to ruin this without their help in trying to maintain this idiotic image you have created of being the unfeeling director." Her eyes narrowed. “The man who needs no one.”
Thomas and Holly stared at her in stunned silence. Addison rarely lost her temper to this extent.
"I have to see the articles all the time about Matt's supposed chemistry with his latest co-star." She placed her hands on her hips. "But I know I am the one who has his heart."
Holly nodded in agreement. "Same for me with Ryan. Nothing makes me happier than seeing him in interviews proclaim that I'm the only one for him." She focused on Thomas. "Don't you think it's time you revealed to Amanda and the world that you love her?"
He rubbed his hands down his face.
He knew he was going to have to make a grand gesture to fix this.
*****************
The next day, Napa Valley, William Sloan's home...
"I could always call on one of men I work with to be your escort for the ball." Rashad offered. "There's even a few coming in from New York that you might like to meet."
Amanda shook her head. "I appreciate that, but I am fine going on my own."
Hana's concerned expression became even more pronounced. "Is there anything we can do?"
Amanda forced a pleasant smile. "I could use some help choosing which dress to wear."
"I can do that." Hana watched their friend disappear into her room.
She waited until the door closed before turning to Rashad. "Should we intervene?"
"I wouldn't know where to start." He grimaced. "You know how bad I am with this sort of thing."
She looped her arms around his neck. "You are wonderful with relationships."
He smiled at her. "Only when it involves you, Hana." He pressed a sweet kiss to her lips. "There is a CEO from New York that might be a good match for Amanda. He plans on coming out tonight."
"Then we will introduce them to each other." Hana decided. "That way there isn't any pressure on either of them."
Amanda stepped out in a black ballgown and gave a brief twirl. "Here's the first one I brought."
Hana turned her attention to helping the duchess look her absolute best for the ball.
She was determined to see her friend happy by the end of this evening. She secretly hoped though that Thomas would end up surprising them all by showing up at the last minute. With a heartfelt sigh, she made comments about the next dress Amanda modeled for her.
**************
An hour before the ball...
Amanda chewed on her lip as she reread the strange text she had received from Thomas.
Please meet me at Wilson's Diner.
She quickly sent a reply.
Why? I have a ball to get to.
Her eyebrows lifted when he immediately replied.
There is something I need to say.
She hesitated.
What is it you wish to say?
Something I should have said a long time ago.
"Thomas." She mumbled, completely frustrated with the man. Cursing herself the entire time, she quickly texted back that she would be there in a few minutes.
************
Wilson's Diner...
Though she felt ridiculous stepping into the causal establishment in a ballgown, Amanda paused in the doorway, trying to see where Thomas was seated.
A waitress approached her with a smile. "You must be the one the guy sitting in the back is waiting on."
She led her to his table.
Amanda stopped in her tracks when she saw Thomas sitting there in a tuxedo. He had a bouquet of flowers and had somehow managed to have a heart box of candy in the middle of September.
He slid out of the booth and took her in his arms.
Before she could utter a word, he kissed her.
Amanda heard the faint clicks of cameras.
When she pulled away to see where they were coming from, Thomas stopped her with his words.
"I'm in love with you, Amanda."
Her lips parted, eyes searching his. "You are?"
He kissed her again, causing the sound of more clicks to occur.
"You make it impossible to not fall in love." He said softly.
She smiled against his lips. "I'm in love with you too, Thomas."
He stepped back to hand her the flowers and candy.
"May I take you to the ball?" He asked.
"I would like that." She breathed in the sweet smell of the her roses.
Thomas slipped his arm around her and addressed the patrons of the diner. "If you want more for your story, we will be attending the charity ball Sloan Industries is hosting."
The majority of patrons clicked one last photo before hurrying out to get to the venue.
"You purposely had the press here?" Amanda asked.
"I did." He led her out to a waiting car.
She stopped him when he opened the door for her. "You didn't have to do that." She lowered her head. "I would never ask you to do something like that when I know how much you value your privacy."
He propped his arm on the roof of the car. "Then what did you need to think about?"
She blew a frustrated breath. "If I could be alright with hiding my feelings for you while out in public."
"And could you?" Thomas gently cupped her chin, urging her to meet his steady gaze.
"Maybe. A little longer perhaps." Amanda shrugged once more. "But the way things have progressed between us the last few months, I don't think I could continue like this."
Thomas took her flowers and candy, setting them down in the car, then pulled her back into his arms.
"I don't want to lose you." He admitted. "The thought of that happening along with the press either having a hand in it or reminding me of my failure in making you happy..." He touched his forehead to hers. "...that is why I tried to avoid their finding out about us."
She met his lips in a tender kiss.
He reluctantly pulled away. "We're going to be late."
Her frustrated groan brought a smile to his face.
"I want to show you off." Thomas whispered, as his lips skimmed her neck.
"If you insist." Amanda slipped out of his embrace and sat down in the car.
He followed after her, gave instructions to their driver, then raised the privacy barrier.
