The Masquerade (5/13)

[london9calling]

The Masquerade
Pairing: Xiumin / Luhan, side Kai / D.O.
Genre: Romance, Mystery, Regency inspired AU
Rating: NC-17
Length: Multi chaptered (93,555 words)
Summary: Minseok reluctantly attends the Kim family masquerade ball after three years of being shunned by high society due to a broken engagement. Luhan, the catch of the season, meets who he thinks is his boyfriend in a secluded alcove, greeting him with a passionate kiss. It is unfortunate that Minseok is wearing the same costume as Luhan’s boyfriend…or is it? A Regency Xiuhan story.

Previous Chapters [1] [2] [3] [4]

He kissed him back. Minseok kissed Luhan back, in front of a room full of the gossip mongering, hateful people that Minseok despised. And it felt great, amazing actually. Until the world so cruelly let itself be known, invading the world they had momentarily created for themselves, their kiss broken, both men pulling away to face each other.

The shattering of glass was the first call back to reality. Someone must have dropped their wine glass, perhaps shocked at Luhan’s surprise announcement.

The second call back to reality was via the words, said loudly on purpose so the entire room could hear: “To think, he ruins one man and then sets his sights on another. Poor Baekhyun, you escaped a rather unfortunate union – the Earl apparently has little in terms of strength to resist that scoundrel’s seductions. Disgusting.”

Luhan didn’t know who said it, but the fact it was said was enough. “If you dare to say one word against my fiancée I won’t hesitate to take action.”

Hence the third set of actions to wrench them back into reality occurred, a blur of movement as those around them tried to either distance themselves from the couple or stop what may soon turn into a flood of stupidity and reckless actions.

Heechul groaned, afraid if he didn’t do anything Luhan would be challenging half the room to a duel. He pushed past Baekhyun, who looked as though he had seen a ghost. Unmoving, uncharacteristically quiet, Heechul was only marginally afraid Baekhyun would do something reckless- like throw his glass of wine in Minseok’s face or have a very public meltdown in the middle of the room. No, Heechul could deal with Baekhyun later, right now he had to take care of Luhan, who suddenly fancied himself some sort of god among men.

“Are you okay?” Luhan asked Minseok, grabbing his hand.

“You are a bastard, you know that?” Minseok whispered, but the slight smile playing on his lips said that his words were far more affectionate than they sounded, though still tinged with a definite hint of anger, outrage, or a similarly annoyed emotion.

“I…does that mean your answer is yes?” Luhan grinned like the fool he was, once again failing to read the situation.

“I don’t think you were waiting for my answer, were you?” Minseok countered, which was entirely true. Luhan hadn’t even asked him to marry him, not in so many words, he had just announced it.

Heechul puled Luhan away first but Jongdae wasn’t far behind him, regaining his senses after the shocking announcement, pulling Minseok’s arm so he would separate himself from Luhan.

“Does your Father know of this?” Heechul spat, trying to keep his voice low. Luhan ignored him, suddenly realizing that Minseok might be a tad bit upset. He hadn’t asked him, he had essentially told him alongside the rest of the room.

Heechul wasn’t about to be ignored. He pinched Luhan’s arm hard, Luhan shouting “Oww, oww, oww.” As he rubbed the place where he was assaulted.

“Did you tell your Father?” Heechul asked again.

“I…no.” Luhan wasn’t worried about his father though, he was worried about what D’Adderleigh was thinking.

Jongdae was trying to gauge his own friend’s reaction to the strange turn of events. “I am guessing this wasn’t something you were aware of?”

“I didn’t know.” Minseok answered curtly, watching as Heechul wagged his finger in Luhan’s face, the rest of the room still staring at them.

“I really don’t like that guy.” Jongdae scowled in Luhan’s direction.

“Jongdae, it’s okay.” Minseok said quietly, trying to avoid having his best friend slap his…fiancée. Was that it- they were engaged now, weren’t they?

Heechul practically dragged Luhan over to where Minseok and Jongdae stood, summing up the next steps quietly. “D’Adderleigh, are you okay with being married to this imbecile?”

“I…” Minseok noticed that Jongdae looked like he wanted to pounce on Luhan and tear his hair out. “Yes, I am not sure that I have a choice at this point.”

“Thanks for forcing my friend into marriage.” Jongdae directed his words at Luhan, who started to protest. Heechul interrupted the potential fight, “There isn’t much we can do about it now old boy. I will let you punch him senseless after the party.”

Jongdae bit his tongue, resolving to take Heechul up on the offer. Luhan could use a punch or two.

Heechul cleared his throat, and loudly, all eyes on him, launched into a speech he didn’t know he would be making.

“I see how surprised everyone is, and that was the plan!” He nudged Minseok and Luhan to smile, they did so rather awkwardly “My dear, kind friend, the Earl of Easton has finally found a man who he wants to spend the rest of his life with. What a very happy, wonderful occasion this is! An occasion that warranted the feeling of surprise, of sudden and unbelievable happiness, a feeling much like the beautiful relationship shared by my dear friends here. ”

A few of those in the room began whispering, clearly more confused as Heechul rambled on. Heechul noticed that Baekhyun and Chanyeol were no longer in the room, his gaze darting to where Baekhyun had been standing in an attempt to gauge what the man may do – or fail to do. Baekhyun’s leave did not surprise Heechul, and in a way he was thankful that the man wasn’t going to cause a scene.

“Please congratulate the newly engaged couple, who not only represent the joining of two illustrious lineages in our country’s proud history, but also represent a love story that is often not seen now a days. A romantic, pure love that no person here should dare question.”

More whispers, some snickers, and then Heechul, acting like nothing was being said around them, held his wine glass high to toast “Here is to the newly engaged couple, may they have a lifetime of happiness together.”

Junmyeon, who was as confused as the rest of the room, had wandered up to where Luhan and Minseok stood, ready to offer congratulations. When he noticed they didn’t have wine glasses in their hand he quickly fixed the issue, the men taking the glasses and holding them high.

“Here is to the lovely couple!” Heechul held his glass aloft before taking a sip, some of those gathered around them doing the same, albeit rather slowly amidst their building confusion. Jongdae sipped his wine as well, choking back his anger on account of the fact Minseok had just agreed to the engagement – even if Jongdae was sure he wouldn’t have done so if Luhan hadn’t acted so carelessly. And the thought he might have an opportunity to punch Luhan, that was the other reason he could muster a toast.

Minseok felt as though he needed more than a sip of wine, in fact he could use some time alone in a good wine cellar. But that was not to be. What was to be was a few people wandering up to congratulate him on his engagement, a majority of those in attendance staying away, likely gossiping up a storm, and Luhan hovering over him like he was afraid if he turned away Minseok would disappear.

It was, by far, the most memorable social event he could recall.

***

Mademoiselle Beauchamp stood in Baekhyun’s path as he neared the exit, he sidestepped around her, Chanyeol trailing closely behind him. He didn’t want an apology or even a statement of her condolences – or worse yet some sort of plan on how to break the engagement. No, what he wanted now was to see D’Adderleigh’s head on a spike.

***

Minseok was happy to see the outside of Mademoiselle Beauchamp’s, because that meant the party had come to an end. Their hostess had congratulated Luhan and Minseok as they left the party, though Minseok thought it was an extremely forced bit of kindness on her part.

“So where do we go from here?” Jongdae asked Heechul, the two men having followed the engaged couple out of the house.

“Well, I would hate for you to break his pretty face before his Father gets a chance so I dare say I lied to you old boy. You will have to hold your fists until another time.” Heechul explained to Jongdae, the two of them watching as Minseok and Luhan took a walk towards Luhan’s carriage.

“I am really, truly very sorry I acted so rashly.” Luhan was sweating, now that he was finally alone with Minseok he wasn’t sure the man wouldn’t tear him limb from limb “It is, I – I like you, very, very much.”

“So I gathered.” Minseok answered rather nonchalantly given the circumstances. He stopped walking and faced Luhan. “Have you considered what a marriage between us might mean?”

“Amazing sex?” Luhan answered swiftly before quickly apologizing yet again “There is something between us, I know you can feel it as well. I would be a fool to think it is only a physical attraction. A marriage between us, I dare say, seems as though it was meant to be.”

Minseok desperately wanted to roll his eyes. Luhan, the same man who only the other day was questioning Minseok’s position in society was now spouting talk of soulmates? The Earl of Easton was certainly a man who changed his tone very quickly.

Honestly though Minseok couldn’t claim to be that terribly upset about being engaged to Luhan. There was something between them, something he couldn’t ignore even if he tried. Three years ago he had resolved himself to be single forever, that love and him were not meant to be. Yet in such a short period of time he found his thoughts flooded with Luhan, a man who seemed to be the exact opposite of anyone Minseok had ever considered falling in love with. Yet here they were, engaged.

“There is a lot we are going to have to work out.” Minseok spoke firmly, “And something tells me your Father may not think this is the best idea in the world.”

“Ah, yes, My Father.” Luhan frowned for a moment “I dare say he may be more agreeable than we think. My parents have constantly pushed for a love match on my part.”

“What of Baekhyun?” Minseok brought up the painful subject, wishing to at least bridge the topic.

“We were never engaged. He never loved me and I never loved him.” Luhan, truth be told, did feel a bit guilty at how he had strung Baekhyun along. Yet he told himself Baekhyun was a mature person, he would understand. It was for the best “What of Lord Sehun?”

“He will probably be overjoyed that his name is no longer tied to mine.” Minseok answered, only guessing at how Sehun would react to the news. He didn’t want to think of his ex-fiancée’s reaction right now, however, so he quickly asked Luhan when he would speak to the Duke in regards to the engagement.

“I will speak to my father first thing in the morning, hopefully before he learns of it from someone else.” Luhan changed the subject, returning to logistics “Then may I see you? Perhaps come to your home?”

Minseok nodded absentmindedly, his mind flooded with a thousand thoughts of what had changed.

Luhan planted a chaste kiss on Minseok’s cheek before entering his carriage, Heechul quickly following. Minseok watched as the carriage lurched and then quickly went on its way, Jongdae sidling up and throwing an arm around Minseok’s shoulders as they watched the carriage move down the road.

“Are you okay?” Jongdae asked, still extremely worried about his best friend.

Minseok sighed. “He is certainly an interesting man, isn’t he?”

“I still want to punch him.”

“I am sure you do. I am sure you do.” Minseok remarked, believing that a small line was probably forming of people who shared the same sentiment.

***

The Duke of Hayden, sitting behind his oversized mahogany desk in his cavernous personal office, was an intimidating sight. Luhan often laughed at how servants and visitors shifted nervously when addressing his Father in his office, the man practically radiating an air of authority and prestige.

Luhan was not laughing as he slinked into his father’s office that morning, feeling much like a dog with his tail between his legs.

“Son, for what do I owe this pleasure?” The Duke looked up from his book of accounts, giving Luhan a surprised look.

Luhan breathed a slight breath of relief. His Father must not have heard of his scandalous actions the day prior. Luhan sat down on the opposite side of the desk from his father, clearing his throat “I have a very important matter I need to discuss with you.”

“Is that so?” The Duke raised one of his eyebrows, curious “Spit it out boy, I hate waiting in suspense.”

“I…well…you see…” Luhan stuttered. He began wringing his hands nervously.

“Yes?” The Duke leaned back in his chair, Luhan jumping at the slight creek of the furniture, each little noise threatening to give him a nervous breakdown.

“I announced my engagement yesterday.” There, he did it. He said it. He closed his eyes tightly, flinching.

“To Baekhyun, I assume.” The Duke did not sound happy.

Luhan opened his eyes slowly, still remaining tense as if he was trying to brace himself in case something was thrown at him. “No, not to Baekhyun….to D’Adderleigh.”

“D’Adderleigh?” The Duke was shocked, completely taken by surprise, “When did you start fancying D’Adderleigh? Or is this another form of foolish rebellion on your part?”

Luhan panicked and began stuttering again “No…n-no, not rebellion. I, well….you se-see we met and I ….he, I li-like him very much.”

Silence. A long, torturous silence. Luhan stared at his Father, The Duke remaining still. Then he burst into laughter, loud boisterous laughter. “You mean to tell me you wish to be married to the Viscount D’Adderleigh?”

“Y-yes.” Luhan blushed “What is so funny?”

His Father kept laughing, sucking in a few deep breaths he regained his composure “Son, you of all people. I never could have imagined this day!”

Luhan was confused. “I don’t understand.”

“My son, who very much cares what others think of him has engaged himself to the scorn of high society! Because he likes him!” The Duke’s laughter declined into a chuckle before he stopped his jovial actions all together.

“Does this mean you approve of the match?” Luhan asked hopefully.

“Seeing as how you announced it I don’t have a choice, not unless you would also like to be dragged through the mud in front of everyone.” His Father turned serious again “What of D’Adderleigh? Was this his idea?”

“NO! It was mine….I didn’t even really talk about it – I mean, a lot, in depth, before I announced it.” Luhan did not want his Father to be angry with Minseok. No, that would be horrible.

“That poor fool. I am guessing he agreed to it?” The Duke asked.

“Yes, he did.”

“I see. I will have to talk this over with your Mother of course.”

“Of course.”

“Though I dare say I approve of this match more than the last. At least this turn you seem to have genuine affection for the man.”

Luhan was overjoyed. His Father had all but approved the match. His smile appeared without him meaning for it to, his happiness overwhelming him.

“Though you must understand, son, there will be consequences for your actions.” The Duke admonished him, Luhan’s smile fading away “You made this announcement without prior approval. It appears that you also cast Baekhyun aside rather quickly. Was it not only the other day that you were still pushing the match? Pray tell me you let him down gently?”

Luhan swallowed. No, he hadn’t let Baekhyun down gently. He hadn’t let Baekhyun down at all. He had simply made an announcement of his engagement to Minseok in front of Baekhyun without a word of warning to him. Very bad behavior indeed. “I did not discuss the matter with Baekhyun.”

It was the Duke’s turn to sigh heavily “Your allowance will be reduced by three quarters until you can show me that you can act in a manner that is befitting your rank and title. You also need to apologize to Baekhyun before I will even consider speaking to you about reinstating your funds”

“What of the wedding?!” Luhan protested. He had to pay for a wedding after all.

“What of it? You were the one to announce it, I would assume that you have calculated out all of the necessary costs and have an idea of what arrangements will need to be made.” His Father answered matter-of-factly.

Luhan had to agree quietly, not daring to admit he had of course done no such thing.

“Wonderful. Now please refrain from causing your parents any more trouble for the time being.”

Luhan stood up, bowing, he slowly took his leave, now definitely feeling like a dog with his tail between his legs.

“One more thing before you leave.” His Father called out “I will ask your Mother to invite your…fiancée…over for dinner soon. Please inform him the invite shall be coming.”

***

Minseok had spent a restless night tossing and turning. Kyungsoo noticed how terribly unrested Minseok looked, worried he suggested that he make him some particularly strong tea with breakfast. Minseok had taken him up on the offer and was now fighting a serious caffeine rush.

His anxiety was already high due to his worry over Luhan’s father’s response - the chemically induced energy was not necessarily a welcome addition to his high strung current state.

“You seem on edge today, sir.” Kyungsoo remarked as he laid out the day’s newspapers, next to Minseok’s favorite chair.

“Yes. I do, don’t I?” Minseok said lamely. He would have to tell Kyungsoo about the engagement soon, and that was also something that he was dreading. His valet tended to have abandonment issues and the thought of Minseok being married was likely enough to drive Kyungsoo into a feverish breakdown over how he was going to be cast aside once Minseok was wed.

The knock on the front door made both Kyungsoo and Minseok jump, even though Minseok was expecting it. Kyungsoo went to answer the door, returning after a moment to announce that “The Earl of Easton, sir. I am not sure what business he has.” Kyungsoo looked confused. Of course he was confused, he had no idea his employer had anything to do with the Earl.

Luhan was soon walking through the door to the parlor, his expression unreadable. Kyungsoo bowed politely, taking his leave. Minseok did not miss his servant’s quizzical expression.

“How did it go with your Father?” Minseok asked, wanting to get the most important topic out of the way.

“He all but said yes.” Now Luhan was smiling brightly. He approached where Minseok sat, and in one swift movement pulled the man to his feet, crushing him in a tight embrace. “You have no idea how happy I am.”

Minseok struggled against the taller man, his face buried in Luhan’s shirt making it hard to breathe. Luhan finally understood he was all but suffocating Minseok, so he broke the embrace, though still keeping his hands on Minseok’s waist.

“You really do get whatever you want, don’t you?” Minseok couldn’t help but see why Luhan had been called society’s golden boy to begin with.

“Most of the time. Though my Father did cut my allowance. Significantly.” Luhan explained his punishment.

“If I was him I would have disowned you.” Minseok remarked, Luhan stomping his foot at his words. “How could you say that? I announced my engagement to you!”

“Very easily, in fact. You acted rashly, in a way that you should have known was inappropriate given your lot in life.”

“So you are suddenly focused on the wrongs and rights of society?”

“No. I am focused on making sure you realize how foolishly you acted though, given the fact your parents seem to care about the wrongs and rights of society.” Minseok admonished.

“You are no fun.” Luhan pouted for a moment before leaning down to plant a kiss on Minseok’s lips. Minseok didn’t move to escape it, closing his eyes as he felt Luhan’s lips meet his own.

“Oh..heavens, sir!” Kyungsoo yelped from the doorway, a tray with tea and scones in his hands. Minseok pushed Luhan away, blushing. Minseok cleared his throat, trying to stop his composure in front of Kyungsoo.

He had debated telling Kyungsoo in private but he knew he needed to say something sooner rather than later. It may be beneficial for Luhan to be present as well, so Kyungsoo could understand that Minseok’s fiancée was a kind and good man, if not exactly the most intelligent man at times.

“I- Kyungsoo, there is something we need to talk about.” Minseok started, his anxiety building.

Kyungsoo was shaking as he set the tray down on the table, managing to cast more than one interested glance at Luhan. The Earl sat down, taking a scone off the tray he acted as though nothing had happened.

“Kyungsoo, The Earl and I are engaged.” Minseok tried to keep his voice from faltering, but he knew his words sounded less confident than he wanted them to. He watched as his valet looked from Luhan to his employer and back to Luhan.

“En…engaged?” Kyungsoo repeated the word as if he didn’t believe what he had just heard.

“Yes. But please do not be afraid – nothing will change with your employ.” Minseok smiled, trying to look cheerful.

Kyungsoo was still looking from Luhan to Minseok and back to Luhan. “You are marrying him?”

“Um, yes.” Minseok thought Kyungsoo might faint. He took a step forward, putting a reassuring hand on Kyungsoo’s arm and squeezing, trying to let his old friend know it would be all right.

“It is a pleasure to meet you.” Luhan stood and offered a slight bow before sitting back down. Minseok was thankful Luhan was polite.

“W-w-where are you going to live?” Kyungsoo asked, his wide eyes having grown wider.

“I am not sure yet. We need to discuss the details.” Minseok explained.

“Sir, who is your valet?” Kyungsoo asked Luhan, his bottom lip quivering.

“My valet?” Luhan looked a bit confused at the question. “Um…Roberts…no, wait. Adam something or other.”

Kyungsoo burst into tears, looking at Minseok he choked “He doesn’t even know his valet’s name! He doesn’t even know his v…a….le…t’s name!” Kyungsoo turned and rushed from the room.

“I was afraid of that. Please excuse me.”  Minseok turned to follow after Kyungsoo, but not before scolding Luhan “Learn you valet’s name for Christ’s sake.”

“What?! I know what he looks like!” Luhan protested, watching as Minseok chased after his servant.

***

“Will you be returning late tonight, sir?” Kyungsoo asked quietly, still miffed over Minseok’s announcement earlier in the day.

Minseok had soothed Kyungsoo, tried to convince him that Minseok’s impending marriage would not change a single thing in terms of his friendship and his deep abiding loyalty to his trusty valet. Kyungsoo had finally stopped crying and went about his day, with a few comments here and there regarding how despicable it was Luhan couldn’t even be bothered to know the name of the man in charge of dressing him.

Minseok was resolute Luhan would have to learn his valets name and quickly – or Kyungsoo would never accept him.

“I may be a bit late in returning this evening.” Minseok responded. He wasn’t quite sure when he would return home to be honest. It was Monday evening and he had a rather suspicious, mysterious gambling game to attend at Herringwoods.

He had met with Jongdae and Junmyeon earlier in the day, after managing to nearly shove Luhan out the door that is. Luhan was sad to learn that Minseok would not be attending the soiree that evening due to a lack of invitation – announcing he would invite Minseok himself.

Minseok wasn’t about to explain to Luhan that he had plans at a gambling hell which is why he couldn’t go to the soiree, so he declined the invitation on account of the fact he needed some time to himself, to digest the news of their engagement. Luhan had pouted, acted like a child, before realizing he had to take his leave for a prearranged appointment with a man from his club. Minseok gladly watched him go, still growing accustomed to how affectionate Luhan could be when they were alone.

When Jongdae and Junmyeon had arrived Minseok was still trying to get a good grasp on what he should do during the game, especially if anything went wrong.

“We can’t go with you old boy, but if something is the matter please don’t hesitate to use this.” Jongdae held a small pistol in his hands, Minseok widening his eyes at the sight.

“Shoot someone? I can’t shoot someone!” Minseok protested.

“Hopefully you won’t have to. But better safe than sorry.” Jongdae had handed the pistol over, Junmyeon staring at it as though it was a strange and exotic site.

“I rather hate pistols myself.” Junmyeon remarked “I never saw the point.”

Minseok had tucked the small pistol into his pocket, hoping that the thing would not go off by accident and tear a hole in his side.

Minseok departed his home a little past nine thirty at night, calculating the time it would take him to walk to Herringwoods. When he reached the club he found himself feeling an overwhelming sense of anxiety. He choked down the feeling, pushing the door open. When the doorman offered to take his coat he inquired after the midnight game, just as he had been instructed to do the week prior.

The doorman smirked, apparently finding some humor in Minseok’s words. “A new participant, I see. Right this way sir.”

Minseok followed the doorman as they passed the gambling rooms that Minseok had gambled in during his prior visit. The rooms were on each side of a long hall, the lighting seemingly kept purposefully low, the dark green wallpaper only making the place seem more cavernous. At the end of the hall was a door – the doorman took out a key ring and unlocked it.

“Please enjoy the game sir.” The man bowed, leaving Minseok to stand in front of the large wooden, paneled door. Minseok took a deep breath, unsure of himself. He had to find confidence before he entered, he had to.

Finally feeling like he could face whatever was ahead of him Minseok turned the doorknob, opening the door to reveal a large gambling table, several men sitting around. They all stopped to look at the door when he entered. It must really be quite the exclusive game, Minseok thought, seeing as how everyone paused to eye up the newcomer.

Minseok bowed slightly before pulling his packet of money from his coat. He would have to buy in and he had brought five times the amount he had gambled with the week prior. There was one empty seat at the table, so he moved to claim it.

The lighting in the room was even darker than that in the hallway, only a few candles here and there illuminating the table and casting enough light for the players to read their cards. Minseok did not have a clear look at the other players until he was seated, only noting the general form of men gathered around the table.

Looking around the room he did not recognize anyone at first, stealing a glance here and there as he was dealt his chips. When he finished stacking them neatly he was given the opportunity to take more time sizing up his opponents. And that is when his composure nearly fell apart. Seated across the table from him was Sehun, who was looking away, trying to look anywhere but at Minseok, not daring to meet his eyes.

***

Luhan yawned, throwing his hand over his mouth to hide his boredom. It was a rather boring party, Heechul wasn’t there so Luhan was left to make the rounds of the room with polite greetings uttered after very obvious whispers about his engagement. He couldn’t help it, being bored that is.  He wondered what Minseok was doing, what he was thinking…if he was lying in bed. In bed. Luhan gulped, suddenly very awake.

He tried to shake the thoughts of a naked Minseok from his mind, which was…difficult. His attention was turned from dirty thoughts when Baekhyun’s arrival was announced. He had tried to think of the best time to apologize to Baekhyun and he had honestly been unable to discover what setting would be the most appropriate, allowing for his momentary relief that the man was attending the soiree that evening.

Luhan knew very well that apologizing to Baekhyun at his own home or at Baekhyun’s would be foolish and inappropriate. That left a social setting. True, he could ask Baekhyun to take tea with him or meet him at the park but he didn’t want the invitation to be misconstrued. Perhaps he could find a moment to speak to him alone that night.

Luhan didn’t have to wait long for the opportunity to arise. Baekhyun made the first move, very purposefully approaching Luhan.

“My lord.” Baekhyun quipped, Luhan noticing the bite to his words “I do fear we need to speak to each other.”

“Yes, I think we do.” Luhan agreed. He followed as Baekhyun led him to a sparsely populated corner of the room.

“I want to apologize, for everything.” Luhan spoke first “It was unfair -what I did- and I am sorry.”

Baekhyun feigned a smile “Yes, it was rather horrible of you.”

“I am very sorry, truly.” Luhan did feel bad about not telling Baekhyun beforehand.

“I am shocked you would chose D’Adderleigh over me- to think of having to live with so much…scandal.” Baekhyun smiled sweetly.

Luhan opened his mouth and spoke without considering, Baekhyun's words begging for a hasty response “We both know we weren’t a love match, it was only a match of convenience.” Luhan regretted his words as soon as Baekhyun let out a laugh, a mocking tone to his joy.

“Pray do tell, is your engagement to D’Adderleigh a love match?” Baekhyun held his hand over his mouth to stifle his laughter. Luhan flushed.

“Yes, I do consider it a love match.” Luhan answered firmly.

“Hm. In a week you have fallen in love?” Baekhyun questioned ,”Luhan, you know I have the utmost affection for you however I cannot help but think you have been most certainly duped.”

“What do you mean?” Luhan felt an anger growing inside of him, he worked hard to squelch it, push it down so he wouldn’t say anything he would regret.

“Do you honestly believe that D’Adderleigh loves you? That in a weeks’ time he has fallen so in love with you he will marry you?” Baekhyun had stopped laughing, though the mirth was still evident in his eyes “Have you not wondered why he would agree to an engagement so readily?”

“You don’t know what you are talking about.” Luhan was not about to let Baekhyun plant a seed of doubt in his mind. Minseok clearly liked Luhan as much as Luhan liked him. Yes, he had to. Didn’t he?

“Perhaps. I suppose time will tell. I am only advising you, as a friend, to think before you act next time. I don’t want to see you hurt. I still care for you.” Baekhyun positively radiated concern.

“Don’t try to cause me to doubt my decision due to your own agenda.” Luhan was shocked at his own strong response, letting the words slip before he unleashed anything more serious. Yet…something in him was surprised that he could show restraint yet voice his displeasure so… maturely. He hated Baekhyun playing on any fears that still lingered in his mind, twisting Luhan’s own insecurities to his advantage.

“My lord, my only agenda is to see you well. I hope you know that and in the end will realize who your friends truly are.” Baekhyun stared into Luhan’s eyes, knowing very well that he had at least given Luhan a momentary doubt over the engagement, even if it was fleeting ,”Now if you will excuse me my lord, I am back on the market.”

Luhan watched Baekhyun walk towards a group of young women, a smile on his face, his intent clear. He was back in business, literally back in the business of marriage, and had connections to make. Luhan shook Baekhyun’s words from his mind, deciding he should only focus on the fact he had met one of his father’s requirements. He had apologized to Baekhyun, no matter how difficult, or foreboding it had been.

***

Minseok had to stay conscious of where he was looking, because naturally he wanted to stare across the table at Sehun. What was Sehun doing here? Why? Sehun had never been a gambler, not in all the time that Minseok had known him – which was most of Minseok’s life. He had to admit though he knew very little about who Sehun had become, their once close relationship nonexistent for three years and counting.

The cards were dealt, the hands played. Minseok retained his composure and bet large and then larger sums of money. He won a hand, then another. Sehun kept loosing, at one point pounding his fist down on the table at his loss.

The other gamblers had mixed luck; so far none of them raised Minseok’s suspicions. There was an elderly gentleman who appeared slightly intoxicated. A thin younger man was seated next to the elderly gentleman, he spoke with a thick accent, likely coming from a less than savory part of town. Minseok wondered how he had the money to buy into the game, then considered it was probably for the best he didn’t know the details unless he needed to.

A younger man sat next to Sehun, his hair cropped unfashionably short, a small scar on his face. Minseok found his posture indicative of good breeding, perhaps some sort of nobleman fallen from grace or a very well versed servant of some kind. There was also a man who introduced himself as French nobility, though Minseok could not recall ever hearing the name before and decided it was likely a false identity.

He observed the players, noting how much they bet, how they spoke, what they did when they won and how they reacted to loosing. It was a waiting game, nothing of note occurring as hand after hand was played.

Minseok’s attendance at the exclusive and very high stakes game finally paid off as the man with the scar, a quiet man who kept his back straight and eyes sharp, having lost his large cache of chips, pulled a necklace from his pocket. Minseok attempted to feign indifference at the sight, luckily he was still able to see that it bore a very strange design – a musical note.

Minseok tensed, knowing that he had finally found some kind of tangible clue that tied everything back to Herringwoods. To this man. The man put the necklace up for ante, the dealer gladly taking the necklace and replacing it with chips. Minseok found it odd that the gambler nor the dealer haggled over its worth, the chips being given out as if the necklace was some sort of agreed upon unit of currency.

The game continued, Minseok checking his pocket watch to find that it was well past two in the morning. The tables had turned, Minseok finding himself on a solid winning streak. The drunken man went all in, loosing, soon stumbling from the room.

Sehun soon followed, meeting Minseok’s gaze for a brief second as he put everything in, pushing the chips forward. The rest of the table followed, the dwindling stacks of chips leveed by each desperate gambler, the room seemingly exhausted of the game, wishing for an end to arrive soon.

The final hand of cards were dealt, Minseok taking the win again. Groans, scowls, and curses filled the room as Minseok placed his winning hand down on the table.

“A newcomers luck.” The dealer winked, “I trust you will want your winnings tonight, sir?”

“May I retrieve the funds tomorrow?” Minseok asked. He wasn’t in need of the money now, not when he had to find out more about the man who had gambled the necklace, a man who would certainly be taking his leave any moment. Minseok wanted to talk to Sehun as well, find out what had driven him to join the game, but he couldn’t let the opportunity to question the man slip through his grasp.

The suspicious man stood, making his way to the door. Minseok quickly stood as well, stretching he thanked the dealer “You must be my lucky charm, sir.”

“I believe you must have lady luck on your side, my ability to deal cards aside.” The dealer shook Minseok’s hand before going back to cleaning up the table.

Minseok knew Sehun was staring at him, watching as he turned to leave. He should say something, or give some indication that he would speak to him later, but he couldn’t. He needed to move and fast.

Minseok left the room, finding the hallway empty. He walked down the hall quickly, not wanting to allow his best lead to escape. As he neared the entrance he caught the sight of the man exiting out the door, his long black coat a blur as he left the gambling club.

“My coat, please.” Minseok would have left without it if he didn’t think it would raise too many suspicions – his dashing from the club that is. The doorman fetched his coat fairly quickly, which was fortunate.

Minseok stepped into the cool night air, looking left than right. He saw a dark flash, a long coat, the same the man was wearing, turn down the long alley near the club. He braced himself against the nighttime chill, following the man, resolved to not lose sight of him.

The alley was dark, Minseok tried to move slowly, listening for the footsteps ahead of him to ensure he hadn’t lost his target. As he walked a dozen paces into the alley he heard the footsteps stop. He tensed – did the man sense him following?

A hand grabbed Minseok’s shoulder, Minseok panicking, his body swiveling, his fist raised.

“It is me!” Sehun yelled out, moving just in time as to avoid Minseok’s fist colliding with his face.

Minseok was breathing heavily, still surprised. “Sehun.” He should have known Sehun would follow him. Minseok wasn’t sure how to best explain to Sehun he didn’t have time to converse, he needed to follow the strange man. Looking down the dark alley and back to Sehun he knew that it was likely a lost cause, the man was likely long gone by now. Still, if he could make this short and sweet he could perhaps catch up with him.

“You are gambling now?” Sehun questioned. “You never used to gamble.”

“I could say the same for you.” Minseok challenged, “Is everything well with you? Why would you be in a place such as this?”

“Why would you?” Sehun seemed angry, upset. “Have you fallen so far in life that you have taken to gambling?”

“This is an outrageous statement coming from a man who was just sitting across the table from me!” Minseok felt the rage building inside. He had forgotten how Sehun could…act sometimes. “Are you in debt? Are you gambling away the family fortune?”

Sehun scoffed, “What fortune? The one that has most certainly done nothing but bring me pain?”

Minseok winced, turning to stare down the alley, hoping he could still find the man “Sehun, please. Take care of yourself.”

“Hm Yes, take care of myself.” Sehun laughed, lilting “Yet I should ignore the fact you are visiting such a place? After announcing your engagement to someone you barely know?”

Minseok wanted the conversation to end as soon as possible, he wanted to forget the feelings that such words caused him. Perhaps he would have been able to give Sehun a proper dressing down while still finding time to finish the task at hands. Perhaps morphed into a shattered chance as a rush of air brushed past Minseok, someone knocking him to the ground a second later.

Minseok was dazed, wincing in pain as his back collided with the ground. He managed to regain his senses fairly quickly, pulling himself to his feet in time to see Sehun struggling with someone. In the dim light he could make out the attacker. It was the man he had been tailing, long coat moving as he scuffled with Sehun.

Minseok grabbed the man from behind, whirling him around and off of Sehun he threw a punch. His fist collided with the man’s face, hard. The man staggered back, blood trickling from his mouth. Sehun stood dazed, unsure of what to do.

“Who are you?” Minseok asked, panting.

“Someone who knows a man working for the home department when he sees them.” The man spat blood before launching himself back towards Minseok. The impact of the man throwing himself full force into Minseok’s chest caused Minseok to stumble backwards a few steps, finally righting himself as he launched into a scuffle with the man.

The man’s fist found Minseok’s stomach, punching once Minseok doubled over. He threw himself forward, attempting to knock the man down. His action was unsuccessful as the man stepped aside, letting Minseok dive into thin air. Minseok whirled around, staggering, throwing a punch. This time he was successful, the man falling back towards where Sehun stood unmoving, shocked.

Minseok watched in horror as the man pulled a small knife from his pocket, taking advantage of the fact Minseok was still panting and clutching his side. With a swift movement he stuck the blade into Sehun’s side, Sehun crying out and collapsing as the man pulled the knife out, taking the moment of madness to escape.

Minseok staggered towards where Sehun was doubled over. Feeling in his pocket he pulled out his pistol, but the man was long gone, running up the street and disappearing into the darkness.

“Sehun?! Sehun?!” Minseok bent down, “Are you okay?”

Sehun raised his head, his expression grim “Minseok.” He mumbled before passing out.

***

Luhan left the party early, deciding to return home. He had spent a few hours enjoying brandy – well, less enjoying and more brooding over his drinks. Baekhyun’s words rang in his head, Luhan picking them apart time and time again. Dismissing them as they should be, regretting he had found Baekhyun likeable at one time.

Then, with a bit of warm liquid running through him, Luhan decided it would be perfectly acceptable for him to take the short walk to Minseok’s house. They were engaged after all. It was late, very late, no one would know.

Luhan smiled, throwing his coat on he let his mind start imagining a thousand different scenarios of what he would do when Minseok let him inside the house, all of which ended in Minseok’s bedroom. D’Adderleigh had turned him into quite the pervert, he realized, blushing.

***

Kyungsoo was not prepared. Not even a little. When Minseok woke him up, his voice cracking with emotion, Kyungsoo was not ready to play doctor. He hadn’t done that since back in Normandy when Minseok had managed to suffer a large gash on his arm from an accident with farming equipment.

“Are you hurt sir?!” Kyungsoo asked the most important question first, Minseok choking out a quick explanation. “It is Sehun.”

Kyungsoo was definitely not prepared to play doctor to Sehun, that little horrible no –good heartbreaker.

***

“It is merely a flesh wound.” Kyungsoo announced, his tone terse and cold.

Sehun felt his side, the place where Kyungsoo had carefully cleaned and bandaged the small wound. He was lying in Minseok’s parlor, on the couch. Minseok had brought him here, nearly carried him, supporting his weight as they traversed the quiet streets.

Sehun had asked not to be taken home, his father had no idea he was at Herringwoods and would certainly not take his son arriving home with a stab wound lightly. When Minseok realized that Sehun had fainted due to the shock of the event and not in fact collapsed from blood loss he agreed; he would bring him to Kyungsoo to be bandaged before heading home.

“Who was it?” Sehun rubbed his side, still feeling a bit lightheaded.

“I think it was the man with the scar on his face, the one at the gaming table.” Minseok responded, ignoring Kyungsoo’s shocked face at his employer’s admittance of gambling, “Do you know his name?”

“No.” Sehun thought, “I had never seen him before tonight.”

“What were you doing there Sehun?” Minseok asked again.

“Making his usual bad choices.” Kyungsoo offered under his breath, Minseok hearing his valet’s remark and hiding a smile in turn.

“I…lost some money on horse racing. I thought I might be able to win it back.” Sehun flinched as he sat up.

“Are you all right?” Minseok asked, catching himself before he placed a hand on Sehun’s arm out of concern.

“Hm. I believe I will live. Thank you Kyungsoo” Sehun knew how little the valet thought of him, so his gratitude was double edged – tinged with a bit of sarcasm at the series of events.

“The pleasure was all mine.” Kyungsoo shot Sehun a dirty look before returning to organizing the bandages and other medical equipment he kept neatly arranged in a small wooden box.

“Will you be able to get home?” Minseok asked, very much aware of how Sehun’s parents felt about their son staying out all night.

“I believe so.” Sehun sat forward, the pain seeming to lessen as he moved.

The three men jumped slightly at the sound of a knock on the front door. Kyungsoo went to answer it, Minseok hoping to god it was not who he feared it was. His fears were answered as Luhan walked into the parlor, all color draining from his face as he took note of who was currently sitting on his fiancé’s couch.

“Lord…Sehun?” Luhan looked from Sehun and then to Minseok, his face betraying how the sight affected him.

“Well, is this not a lovely evening, my lords?” Kyungsoo deadpanned from where he stood behind Luhan, very curious how his employer would diffuse the very awkward situation that they were in the midst of.

***

“I should be taking my leave.” Sehun stood up, grasping his side slightly as he rose. Minseok reached out to steady him, which earned another pained expression from Luhan.

“Should I even question what you are doing at my fiancée’s house in the middle of the night?” Luhan’s tone was dangerous, a furious edge to his words.

“Yes, you should. And this is why.” Sehun lifted his shirt ever so to reveal dried blood and a bandaged wound.

“My word, what happened to you?” Luhan’s eyes widened.

“A knife happened to me, as Minseok can attest to. This foolish young lord got himself into a fight he was not prepared for.” Sehun let go of his shirt and walked towards the door, stopping in front of Luhan. He placed a hand on Luhan’s shoulder, Minseok remaining silent as he watched their interaction, his chest tightening.

“I broke his heart three years ago, you better not do the same.” Sehun warned “And if you dare think I was here for any other reason than to have his strange valet bandage me up I will slap you.”

Kyungsoo scowled at the label of “strange valet”, stepping aside gladly for Sehun to pass. He would be happy if he didn’t see Sehun again – ever. Lord no-idea-what-my-valets-name-is was an infinite improvement over Sehun.

Luhan tensed, not responding to Sehun’s words. He watched as the younger man left, Kyungsoo shutting the door to leave Luhan and Minseok alone, not missing the chance to give his employer a small shake of his head in disapproval as he closed the door. Minseok sighed, his annoyed valet being the least of his current problems.

They stood, staring at each other, neither man speaking.

The strange energy that consistently surrounded them was funneled into a heated mess of feelings, Minseok sensed it. Luhan was jealous, possessive, and unsure.

“He was injured, I couldn’t turn him away.” Minseok explained quietly, not daring to relay the events of the evening – his time in a gaming hell and Sehun being stabbed by a potential suspect in the jewelry thefts. He would tell him in time, not now, not yet.

Minseok braced himself for Luhan’s reaction. Would he be accusatory – suspicious? He was surprised, pleasantly, when Luhan did nothing of the sort.

“He broke your heart?” Luhan asked, his expression still pained but for a different reason now, his hurt stemming from something else entirely.

Minseok didn’t want to talk about what happened three years ago. He didn’t want to talk about the reason the engagement was broken – the reason that he let Sehun go. The reason Sehun made him go.

“More or less.” Minseok said softly.

“I should have hit him.” Luhan’s words were throaty, husky even. Minseok stood still, unmoving, his world focused only on Luhan, on Luhan’s gaze, on the way Luhan was angry over something that he had held in his heart for so long. An anger he felt, an anger that he let die slowly, surely, as Luhan replaced those feelings with something else. Something in the now, in the present. A feeling of acceptance, of want, of desire – of a future - not a hurtful, bleak past.

Luhan bridged the gap between them, quickly striding forward until he was standing in front of Minseok, pulling him into an embrace. Minseok went to him gladly, his emotions frayed, his mind torn asunder from the events of the night, he relished in the feeling of being held.

“You know I will never do that.” Luhan whispered softly, breathing in the smell of Minseok’s hair, the musky scent of his cologne.

“Do what?” Minseok asked, his breathing starting to level as he melded into Luhan’s arms.

“Break your heart. I would never- I could never live with myself if I ever did anything to hurt you.” Luhan kissed the top of Misneok’s head gently, reverently. Minseok shut his eyes, appreciating how caring, how loving the action was.

Luhan continued trailing light kisses on the top of Misneok’s head, gently placing his hands on the side of Misneok’s face he moved so he could kiss the older man’s forehead, then his cheeks, the tip of his nose.

Minseok kept his eyes shut, feeling the light caresses of Luhan’s lips on his face, Luhan’s breath smelling of brandy and tobacco, sweet in a way, playing across his cheeks, finding his lips, claiming him.

Minseok eased into the kiss, Luhan tasted sweet. It was different, a slower pace than they usually indulged in. Minseok parted his lips, allowing Luhan entrance, a languid and unhurried pace, a time to appreciate.

“May I stay?” Luhan asked, breathless as he broke their kiss to look into those beautiful, captivating eyes. Minseok’s eyes.

Minseok, face flushed, lips slightly swollen from kissing, was the most beautiful sight he had ever seen.

“Please.” Minseok breathed, not wanting the man who was holding him like this, kissing him like this, to disappear back into the night. He needed Luhan now, he wanted him.

Luhan kissed him again, this time quickening the pace, his tongue assaulting Misneok’s, Minseok moving forward, his hands finding Luhan’s shoulders to pull him closer.

“We need to go upstairs.” Minseok panted as Luhan began licking and nibbling down his neck, the realization of what they were doing and where hitting him.

“Hm.” Luhan muttered, not moving.

“Luhan, we can’t do this here.” Minseok said, nearly out of breathe, his mind growing hazy at the feeling of Luhan’s lips on his skin.

Minseok gasped as Luhan moved, without warning sweeping Minseok up in his arms, holding him tightly. “Upstairs?” His eyes twinkled mischievously.

Minseok rolling his eyes at Luhan’s shameless actions. He wrapped his arms around Luhan’s neck and nuzzled his face into Luhan’s shoulder as he was carried from the parlor, carefully up the stairs, to his bedroom. Luhan somehow managed not to make a lot of noise and thankfully Kyungsoo was nowhere in sight, Minseok deciding the valet must – thankfully - have gone back to bed.

Luhan laid Minseok down on the bed, not allowing him a moment to make himself comfortable before Luhan was on top of him, resuming his kisses. Minseok moaned, his hand finding Luhan’s hair, dragging his hand through Luhan’s brown locks as he shifted under him.

“You have no idea how much I wanted you today.” Luhan said huskily as his lips found Minseok’s collar bone, sucking. “Thought of you today.” Luhan teased, sucking a red mark into Minseok’s neck.

Minseok jerked forward, the sensation driving him mad. “I –“

“You??” Luhan laughed as he unbuttoned Minseok’s shirt, breathing lightly across his chest, appreciating the way Minseok moaned at the loss of Luhan’s lips on his neck.

Minseok bucked forward again, this time reacting to Luhan’s hand finding the front of his pants, caressing his hardness, slowly, teasing. It was maddening.

Luhan leaned back, moved quickly, taking his own shirt off before unbuttoning Misneok’s pants, pulling them down, revealing Minseok’s hard cock, pre-cum dripping from the head.

“So beautiful.” Luhan whispered against Minseok’s thigh, humming, feeling his own erection grow as Minseok gasped and writhed at his touches. “I want to taste you” Luhan breathed.

Minseok let himself be moved, he had no willpower to resist as Luhan scooted him towards the edge of the bed, kneeling in front of him. He licked the underside of Minseok’s cock, his hands following his tongue, the sensation causing Minseok to jerk back in pleasure.

“Fuck my mouth.” Luhan breathed, sinfully, before taking Minseok’s length into his mouth.

Minseok groaned at the feeling, the wet, tight feeling of Luhan’s mouth. He raised his head from the bed, enjoying how amazing Luhan looked with his mouth full of cock. Those pretty lips surrounding his throbbing dick. He began to thrust upwards, Luhan bracing himself on Minseok’s knees, following Minseok’s thrusts, sucking.

“F…”Minseok’s hands grasped at the blanket under him, needing something to hold onto – needing something to feel as he watched his cock thrust in and out of Luhan’s mouth. He quickened the pace, unable to hold back, unable to do anything but thrust into Luhan’s mouth over and over again, to seek his release with Luhan’s lips on him.

He threw his head back as he felt his orgasm surge through him, his white hot seed spilling into Luhan’s mouth. Luhan drank it in, sucking gently before letting Minseok’s softening cock fall out of his mouth. Minseok gasped, trying to regain his senses.

It was but a moment before he caught sight of a Luhan’s flushed face, a drop of his cum at the corner of Luhan’s mouth. Luhan licked his lips, tasting. Minseok felt himself growing hard again, panting as the desire built up inside of him. It had never happened to him, to be so aroused so quickly after finding his release. But Luhan, wide eyes, pretty lips, would be the end of him

Minseok moved two fingers to his mouth, sucking on them. Luhan pivoted back on his heels, leaning, watching as Minseok moistened two the fingers. Moving his hand down to rest between his own legs. “I…” Minseok stared into Luhan’s eyes as he moved, taking pleasure in how aroused Luhan looked, how eager he grew as he watched Minseok move his fingers towards his hole “Want…you in…” Minseok positioned his fingers at his twitching hole, pushing them in as he spoke “Me.”

Luhan gasped at the sight, his cock hard and throbbing. He didn’t think he could continue much longer, not without touching himself – not at the sight of Minseok fucking himself with his fingers, scissoring, loosening himself up. He needed to be touched, had to be touched. He moved his hand to his cock, Minseok stopping him “No. Not until you are in me.” Luhan groaned at the words, so hot.

He couldn’t hold back any more, not with Minseok writhing, making sinful noises as he moved with his fingers, biting his bottom lip, his cock growing hard as he pushed his fingers into himself. Luhan unbuttoned his pants, the fabric painfully scraping his erection.  He stepped out of his trousers, his hands finding Minseok’s waist. He moved Minseok again, positioning him further up on the bed.

Minseok tensed as he felt Luhan’s cock at his entrance, only having a second to brace himself before Luhan thrust in- hard. Minseok gasp, grabbing onto Luhan’s back as he began to thrust.

Luhan wouldn’t last long, he could feel it. Minseok was still tight, Luhan’s cock buried in him. Luhan moaned. He wanted it to last longer, he wanted-the heat coursing through him, the little noises Minseok made as he pounded into him, it was too much. He needed more, he had to have more, he couldn’t-

“Bend over.” Luhan’s voice was raspy, wrecked. He pulled out quickly, not trusting himself if he didn’t act fast. Minseok whined at the loss of contact, but moved. He positioned himself on his knees, hands planted on the bed, back to Luhan.

A hand came down on his ass, squeezing “I like this view.” Luhan laughed, panting. And then he thrust in hard, Minseok falling forward at the action, gasping as Luhan hit the most sensitive part of him, thrusting into the sensitive bundle of nerves. Luhan gripped Misneok’s waist as he moved in and out, managing to hold Minseok’s spent body upright.

Luhan pounded into him, Minseok feeling Luhan’s balls hit him with every move forward, a sensation that did little to quell his growing release. His cock was hard again, wanting to be touched.

“So good.” Luhan moaned, his thrusts becoming more erratic, a bead of sweat running down his brow as he was flooded with ecstasy, the feeling of being buried in Minseok driving him closer.

As if he could sense what Minseok needed he leaned forward, reaching he began to stroke Minseok’s cock as he steadied himself on the bed. “Come for me.” He demanded huskily, his words teasing the back of Minseok’s neck, his own release quickly approaching as he rutted forward.

Minseok fell forward as his orgasm hit, burying his face in his pillow as Luhan fell with him, his dick still buried deep inside. Luan thrust a few more times before he cried out, his cock twitching as he spilled his seed inside of Minseok.

Panting, wrecked.

Luhan pulled out, planting a few kisses on Misneok’s neck as he fell onto his back, staring at the ceiling, breathless.

“I hate you.” Minseok moaned, his words muffled by his pillow.

“We both know that is not true.” Luhan smiled, trying to steady himself, trying to find his senses after the most intense orgasm of his life.

“Hm.” Minseok lifted his head, his energy spent, his muscles weak, he moved the few inches until his head was resting on Luhan’s chest. “Thank you.”

“Thank you” Luhan reached out, pulling Minseok into his arms.

NEXT CHAPTER >>>