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"It's been done, my Lady." Your maid, Emily, said to you as she brushed your hair in front of the large, ornate vanity mirror in your clothing chamber.

"What has?" You asked.

"Your mother has confirmed your betrothal to Alois Trancy, of course! They are making the announcement at the party in a few days. All the nobles will be there to witness this union! Oh, isn't it exciting?" Your maid replied. The betrothal...

There had been talk going around about a possible Trancy and (L/n) betrothal for months. Your mother was set on you marrying Alois Trancy. He was young, rich and a noble. He was perfect for you. At least that's what your mother said. You had no say in the matter, really. Alois' father had initiated the betrothal as well and together, both your parents were ecstatic.

You'd met Alois a few times before, every time for only a short while. You knew what he was like and in general he was always courteous, gallant and charming. You weren't going to lie, you did find him attractive, but you and him were only seventeen years old.

You didn't want to marry Alois. You didn't want to marry yet at all but what choice did you have? Arranged marriages were so common in England you always knew in the back of your mind you would most likely have one too. Alois seemed nice enough but there were certain times when you were unsure. Plus he always had that creepy butler shadow, Claude, following him everywhere.

You nodded, not even bothering to mask your emotions in front of Emily. "Come," She said. "Lets get you ready for the trip." Almost all of England's nobles were going to Alkamar for a week, a large and lively town in southern England, a popular vacation spot for the midsummer. Any noble important enough would be invited and most would attend. All part of the whole social fiasco in the English caste. So Alois is going...Ciel probably is too...

---

Alkamar was as beautiful as you remembered it. To get to the main estate where the nobles would be staying, one had to take the carriage ride through the town. It was bustling with common folk and people accumulating there to catch a glimpse of the nobles. You couldn't wait until your first outing into the town, the thought of the beautiful town lights at night and the stands of food just excited you to the core.

You got to the estate and to your family's assigned house. It was smaller than your manor of course, but it was still very large, and you almost immediately got lost. Your mother and Alois' father would be making the engagement announcement that night at the welcome ball. You decided you couldn't be cramped up in your rooms until the evening so you dressed and headed out into the estate, without an escort. You glimpsed several families arriving and entering their separate houses and quickly dodged having to say hello.

You realized you'd come to a very pretty garden walkway where the path was straight and there were beautiful trees growing on both sides of the paths, their branches spreading out and growing together to form an arch around your head. It was like walking through a tunnel, you thought, although there was plenty of light. You breathed in the beautiful air and just then you heard the sound of running behind you. You turned in surprise to see the smirking figure of Alois Trancy.

"Lady (f/n), it has been too long." He said walking right up to you. Here is is...my betrothed... You had such mixed feelings.

You smiled. "Alois, always a pleasure, my lord."

"Please, don't call me 'my lord.' You'll be calling me your husband very soon." He said with a wink. You laughed a little. "I can't say how pleased I was that it was you they chose. When my father told me I'd be engaged soon, I'd half expected it would be someone ugly, but it turns out it was you. Seems my idiot father isn't as much of an idiot as I'd thought."

You weren't quite sure what to say. This type of attitude was usual from Alois but still, you weren't used to it. He suddenly grabbed your hand. "So, so very pleased..." He whispered in your ear. You pulled back, embarrassed from the direct contact, but Alois only smirked wider and suddenly he'd pulled you across the pathway until he was leaning against the tree and you against him. He looked down at you, your chest pressed up against his. His free hand slid around your waist. Oh Emily, where are you when I need you the most?

But when you heard the footsteps, it wasn't Emily who'd shown up. It was Ciel.

Your eyes widened in surprise and embarrassment at being caught in that position. Ciel had hardly changed. He was much taller but his ocean blue eyes, one covered by an eyepatch and dark navy hair were the same. He was alone as well, and probably had the same idea as you to go exploring.

"Lady (f/n)..." He said, eyes trailing to Alois and suddenly his expression turned distasteful.

You detached yourself from Alois. You couldn't be sure but you thought you saw Alois' eyes turn dark for a millisecond before a grin broke over his face.

"Ciel! I'm so glad you're here. How have you been?"

"Marvelous..." Ciel replied, dryly, crossing his arms.

You spoke up. "Ciel, its lovely to see you again. I'd missed your company"

"I had too. Although I'll have enough company with (f/n) around." Alois grinned. "I'm sure you heard about our engagement?"

Ciel narrowed his eyes. "Yes. I'm very happy for you." His eyes turned to you and you couldn't place the emotion.

You cleared your throat. "Alois, if you would excuse me, I would like to catch up with Ciel for a little while."

There was a moment's silence before Alois grinned cheekily again. He turned to Ciel. "Don't take too long with her." He said before walking away.

"Why don't we walk?" You asked. "How's Bardroy, Mey-rin and Finny?" You asked. You'd come to enjoy their company during your stays at the Phantomhive mansion.

"Doing well." He replied. "So you're engaged now." He said, not looking at you.

Your eyes fell to the leave covered ground under your feet. "Yes that's right."

"Why?" He asked, almost cutting you off. He stopped walking and faced you. "Why are you marrying him?"

"Well-I," You couldn't think of what to say. Why was he acting like this? "Our parents arranged it." You finished.

"And you agreed?"

"I didn't-" You were feeling attacked by his accusatory tone. "Why are you being so abrasive?" You asked.

"Of all the people you could have chosen, (y/n), why Alois? He's the worst possible choice for you."

"I know because of your history with him, you-"

"No, (y/n), you deserve better than Alois. He might seem princely now, but that will change soon enough and you will see his true colors. He won't treat you like you deserve to be treated."

You looked into his eyes and crossed your arms. "You think you know what's best for me?"

"I know what's not best for you." He said simply. "You will never be happy with him." He paused. "Do you even want to marry him?" He asked, eyes bearing into yours.

"I-" You stopped. "Ciel, I appreciate your concern but I can take care of myself."

Ciel let out a frustrated sound and put his hands to his head. "You still don't understand..." He muttered. Then he straightened up and turned into Ciel the Lord. "If you'll excuse me, Lady (l/n), I shall see you at the Welcome Ball tonight." He bowed stiffly and left.

What was his deal?

---

The Welcome Ball was as extravagant as ever. Hundreds of people laughing, talking, drinking, and arguing filled the area as well as the outside areas. You were wearing a light blue, modest, off-the-shoulder dress for the occasion. Your (h/c) hair was done in an up-do, soft curls falling about your face. You looked splendid.

Alois' familiar face appeared before yours and he smirked his devilish smile. Then you saw Claude, standing tall behind Alois, golden eyes looking you over. "They're about to make the announcement." Alois said.

And right on queue, you heard the clinking of a glass and Klevane, the host of the week, calling out for attention. "My lords, my ladies, earls, dukes, and duchess'... welcome to Alkamar!" A ripple of applause. "On this gracious and spirited day, there is an announcement to be made." Alois grasped your hand and pulled you both to stand behind his father and your mother.

Klevane turned to Alois' father who was standing next to your pleased mother. "On this day, we shall celebrate the joining of two old and noble families. I present my son, Alois Trancy and as of now, his betrothed, the Lady (f/n) (l/n). Let us drink to their happiness!" A thrum of applause and cheering responded as you and Alois stepped up to face the giant ballroom crowd and the musicians began to play a happy tune.

Alois grinned proudly and you waved nervously but if there was one person in the room who looked anything but happy, it was Ciel Phantomhive, as you glimpsed him leave the ballroom, Sebastian on his trail.

Description
"It's been done, my Lady." Your maid, Emily, said to you as she brushed your hair in front of the large, ornate vanity mirror in your clothing chamber.

"What has?" You asked.

"Your mother has confirmed your betrothal to Alois Trancy, of course! They are making the announcement at the party in a few days. All the nobles will be there to witness this union! Oh, isn't it exciting?" Your maid replied. The betrothal...

There had been talk going around about a possible Trancy and (L/n) betrothal for months. Your mother was set on you marrying Alois Trancy. He was young, rich and a noble. He was perfect for you. At least that's what your mother said. You had no say in the matter, really. Alois' father had initiated the betrothal as well and together, both your parents were ecstatic.

You'd met Alois a few times before, every time for only a short while. You knew what he was like and in general he was always courteous, gallant and charming. You weren't going to lie, you did find him attractive, but you and him were only seventeen years old.

You didn't want to marry Alois. You didn't want to marry yet at all but what choice did you have? Arranged marriages were so common in England you always knew in the back of your mind you would most likely have one too. Alois seemed nice enough but there were certain times when you were unsure. Plus he always had that creepy butler shadow, Claude, following him everywhere.

You nodded, not even bothering to mask your emotions in front of Emily. "Come," She said. "Lets get you ready for the trip." Almost all of England's nobles were going to Alkamar for a week, a large and lively town in southern England, a popular vacation spot for the midsummer. Any noble important enough would be invited and most would attend. All part of the whole social fiasco in the English caste. So Alois is going...Ciel probably is too...

---

Alkamar was as beautiful as you remembered it. To get to the main estate where the nobles would be staying, one had to take the carriage ride through the town. It was bustling with common folk and people accumulating there to catch a glimpse of the nobles. You couldn't wait until your first outing into the town, the thought of the beautiful town lights at night and the stands of food just excited you to the core.

You got to the estate and to your family's assigned house. It was smaller than your manor of course, but it was still very large, and you almost immediately got lost. Your mother and Alois' father would be making the engagement announcement that night at the welcome ball. You decided you couldn't be cramped up in your rooms until the evening so you dressed and headed out into the estate, without an escort. You glimpsed several families arriving and entering their separate houses and quickly dodged having to say hello.

You realized you'd come to a very pretty garden walkway where the path was straight and there were beautiful trees growing on both sides of the paths, their branches spreading out and growing together to form an arch around your head. It was like walking through a tunnel, you thought, although there was plenty of light. You breathed in the beautiful air and just then you heard the sound of running behind you. You turned in surprise to see the smirking figure of Alois Trancy.

"Lady (f/n), it has been too long." He said walking right up to you. Here is is...my betrothed... You had such mixed feelings.

You smiled. "Alois, always a pleasure, my lord."

"Please, don't call me 'my lord.' You'll be calling me your husband very soon." He said with a wink. You laughed a little. "I can't say how pleased I was that it was you they chose. When my father told me I'd be engaged soon, I'd half expected it would be someone ugly, but it turns out it was you. Seems my idiot father isn't as much of an idiot as I'd thought."

You weren't quite sure what to say. This type of attitude was usual from Alois but still, you weren't used to it. He suddenly grabbed your hand. "So, so very pleased..." He whispered in your ear. You pulled back, embarrassed from the direct contact, but Alois only smirked wider and suddenly he'd pulled you across the pathway until he was leaning against the tree and you against him. He looked down at you, your chest pressed up against his. His free hand slid around your waist. Oh Emily, where are you when I need you the most?

But when you heard the footsteps, it wasn't Emily who'd shown up. It was Ciel.

Your eyes widened in surprise and embarrassment at being caught in that position. Ciel had hardly changed. He was much taller but his ocean blue eyes, one covered by an eyepatch and dark navy hair were the same. He was alone as well, and probably had the same idea as you to go exploring.

"Lady (f/n)..." He said, eyes trailing to Alois and suddenly his expression turned distasteful.

You detached yourself from Alois. You couldn't be sure but you thought you saw Alois' eyes turn dark for a millisecond before a grin broke over his face.

"Ciel! I'm so glad you're here. How have you been?"

"Marvelous..." Ciel replied, dryly, crossing his arms.

You spoke up. "Ciel, its lovely to see you again. I'd missed your company"

"I had too. Although I'll have enough company with (f/n) around." Alois grinned. "I'm sure you heard about our engagement?"

Ciel narrowed his eyes. "Yes. I'm very happy for you." His eyes turned to you and you couldn't place the emotion.

You cleared your throat. "Alois, if you would excuse me, I would like to catch up with Ciel for a little while."

There was a moment's silence before Alois grinned cheekily again. He turned to Ciel. "Don't take too long with her." He said before walking away.

"Why don't we walk?" You asked. "How's Bardroy, Mey-rin and Finny?" You asked. You'd come to enjoy their company during your stays at the Phantomhive mansion.

"Doing well." He replied. "So you're engaged now." He said, not looking at you.

Your eyes fell to the leave covered ground under your feet. "Yes that's right."

"Why?" He asked, almost cutting you off. He stopped walking and faced you. "Why are you marrying him?"

"Well-I," You couldn't think of what to say. Why was he acting like this? "Our parents arranged it." You finished.

"And you agreed?"

"I didn't-" You were feeling attacked by his accusatory tone. "Why are you being so abrasive?" You asked.

"Of all the people you could have chosen, (y/n), why Alois? He's the worst possible choice for you."

"I know because of your history with him, you-"

"No, (y/n), you deserve better than Alois. He might seem princely now, but that will change soon enough and you will see his true colors. He won't treat you like you deserve to be treated."

You looked into his eyes and crossed your arms. "You think you know what's best for me?"

"I know what's not best for you." He said simply. "You will never be happy with him." He paused. "Do you even want to marry him?" He asked, eyes bearing into yours.

"I-" You stopped. "Ciel, I appreciate your concern but I can take care of myself."

Ciel let out a frustrated sound and put his hands to his head. "You still don't understand..." He muttered. Then he straightened up and turned into Ciel the Lord. "If you'll excuse me, Lady (l/n), I shall see you at the Welcome Ball tonight." He bowed stiffly and left.

What was his deal?

---

The Welcome Ball was as extravagant as ever. Hundreds of people laughing, talking, drinking, and arguing filled the area as well as the outside areas. You were wearing a light blue, modest, off-the-shoulder dress for the occasion. Your (h/c) hair was done in an up-do, soft curls falling about your face. You looked splendid.

Alois' familiar face appeared before yours and he smirked his devilish smile. Then you saw Claude, standing tall behind Alois, golden eyes looking you over. "They're about to make the announcement." Alois said.

And right on queue, you heard the clinking of a glass and Klevane, the host of the week, calling out for attention. "My lords, my ladies, earls, dukes, and duchess'... welcome to Alkamar!" A ripple of applause. "On this gracious and spirited day, there is an announcement to be made." Alois grasped your hand and pulled you both to stand behind his father and your mother.

Klevane turned to Alois' father who was standing next to your pleased mother. "On this day, we shall celebrate the joining of two old and noble families. I present my son, Alois Trancy and as of now, his betrothed, the Lady (f/n) (l/n). Let us drink to their happiness!" A thrum of applause and cheering responded as you and Alois stepped up to face the giant ballroom crowd and the musicians began to play a happy tune.

Alois grinned proudly and you waved nervously but if there was one person in the room who looked anything but happy, it was Ciel Phantomhive, as you glimpsed him leave the ballroom, Sebastian on his trail.