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#Maxton Hall — The World Between Us
ur-lil-flo · 1 day
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I don't see people talking about it enough, so here it is: James is scared of Ruby in the beginning. His world is a simple food chain: he can buy anything and anyone, and if he can't buy it, he threatens people until they do what he wants. But Ruby does not take his money, and his family's name doesn't make her fall down begging for forgiveness.
He can't control her. She's not a part of his game, and that's why she's terrifying to him. She is a threat to his family, and, for instance, his sister, whom he can't seem to protect in this situation. That's why he would go to great lengths to shut Ruby down - because he's scared.
I think it's crucial for the story because he's had people being rude to him for a reason and with no reason. He's had people he fought with, but she's the first person (probably after his father) whom he can't control. People like this have the power and don't see him as a human being, they're only there to hurt and punish him. That's why her apologizing to him makes him fold this fast. His father is terrifying and cruel, and he has never in his life apologized to James for hurting him and constantly ruining his life. Ruby was hurt and said what she thought, but she didn't mean it. While James expected her to play some kind of game (planning something with Alistair, not taking money, etc.), she was just herself, with all her honest reactions and emotions.
In his fake world, she was real. She took responsibility for her actions, she saw herself hurting James, and wasn't fine with that like others were in the past. I think that's what made him fall for her. She was honest and open, wasn't scared of him, respected herself, and made him respect her.
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itsgreti · 3 days
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IN THE QUIET MOMENTS
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pairing. james beaufort x f!reader
summary. james, burdened by his father's high expectations, finds strength in his relationship with (Y/N), who helps him get through the pressures of his legacy.
warning. mention of domestic abuse
word count. 1.2k
a/n: english is my second language, so if you find any mistakes, don't hesitate and text me!
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(Y/N) and James Beaufort had been dating for a few months now, their relationship blossoming amidst the magnificence of the Beaufort estate and Maxton Hall. From their first date to their shared dreams and whispered secrets, their bond only grew stronger with each passing day. However, James still had secrets before (Y/N). His father, a tough presence in their lives, had high expectations for James, that weighed heavily on his shoulders.
James was the heir to the Beaufort family legacy, immersed in wealth, power, and influence. His father, Mortimer Beaufort, was a harsh man, known for his rigid standards and desire for power. From a young age, James was groomed to take over the family business, to uphold the Beaufort name with honour and distinction. Yet, the pressures of living up to his father's expectations were immense, and James was unable to decide about his fate. He often hid these feelings by being arrogant, but his true personality is far from that.
Despite his inner turmoil, James was determined not to burden (Y/N) with his worries. He enjoyed every moment they shared, treasuring the moments of joy away from the pressures of his family's obligations. (Y/N) was his sanctuary, her presence a comforting anchor for his troubled soul. He wanted to protect her from the harsh realities of his world, to shield her from the weight of his responsibilities.
One sunny afternoon, (Y/N) decided to surprise James by visiting the Beaufort mansion. She had a big smile on her face and a bouquet of wildflowers in her hand, knowing how much James loved their simplicity among the grandiose setting of his home. As she entered the luxurious halls of the mansion, she couldn't help but feel a pang of nervousness. Even though she feels comfortable with his family, sometimes she feels like an outsider in James's world, but he always reassures her that only their happiness matters.
Upon reaching James's study, she found him seated at his desk, his brow furrowed in concentration. Papers were strewn across the desk, and he seemed lost in thought, his mind burdened by hidden troubles. But it wasn't his focused expression that caught her attention; it was the scar cutting his usually flawless lips. Worrying flooded into her as she rushed to his side, her heart aching at the sight of his pain.
"James, what happened?" she asked, gently tracing the scar with her fingertips. Her touch was light, but it carried all the love and worry she felt for him.
James looked up, his eyes filled with a mixture of pain and reluctance. "It's nothing, just a minor accident," he replied, his voice tense. He tried to muster a smile, but it didn't reach his eyes.
(Y/N) could see through his disguise. She knew there was more to the story, and she wasn't about to let him brush it off so easily. "James, please," she urged, her voice soft but determined. "You can tell me."
For a moment, James hesitated, his gaze flickering with uncertainty. He had always prided himself on being strong, on keeping his troubles to himself. But then, as if the weight of his secret became too much to bear, he finally gave in.
"It's my father," he admitted, his voice barely above a whisper. "He... he expects so much from me, (Y/N). I try to live up to his standards, but sometimes it feels like I'm drowning."
(Y/N) reached out, taking his hand in hers, offering him comfort and support. "You don't have to face this alone, James," she said, her voice filled with sympathy. "We're in this together."
Tears welled in James's eyes as he looked at her, overwhelmed by her firm love and understanding. "Thank you, (Y/N)," he whispered, his voice choked with emotion. "You don't know how much that means to me."
(Y/N) squeezed his hand, her heart aching for him. "James, you don't need to prove anything to anyone, least of all your father. I'm here for you, no matter what."
James sighed, a deep, tired sound that seemed to come from the depths of his soul. "I know, but it's hard. My father has always been so demanding. He wants me to be perfect, to follow in his footsteps. He is prioritizing the business before the family. I-"
(Y/N) cupped his cheek, forcing him to look into her eyes. "James, listen to me. You are not your father. You have your path to follow, and your own dreams to pursue. Don't let his expectations define you. You are more than enough just as you are."
James closed his eyes, leaning into her touch. Her words were like a balm to his wounded spirit, offering him a spark of hope amidst the darkness. "Thank you, (Y/N). I don't know what I would do without you."
"I'm not going anywhere," she promised, her voice steady and reassuring. "We'll face this together, one step at a time."
As they sat together in the quiet sanctuary of James's study, (Y/N) made a silent promise to always be there for him, to share his burdens and his joys, and to love him entirely, now and forever.
James pulled her into his arms, holding her close as if afraid she might slip away. "I love you, (Y/N)," he whispered against her hair, his voice filled with emotions.
"I love you too, James," she replied, her own voice thick with tears. "We'll get through this together, I promise."
In that moment, (Y/N) realized just how much James had been carrying on his shoulders, how he had been silently struggling under the weight of his family’s legacy. But she also knew that together, they could face any challenge that came their way.
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In the following days, James continued to cope with his father's tasks, attending press conferences or negotiating about new business collaborations. But with (Y/N) by his side, he began to find a sense of balance, a way to navigate the duties without losing himself in the process. She stood by him during difficult conversations with his father, offering her steady support. And slowly but surely, James began to carve out a space for himself, a place where he could be true to his own wishes and dreams.
One evening, as they sat together in the garden of the Beaufort mansion, surrounded by the scent of blooming flowers and the soft glow of the setting sun, James turned to (Y/N) with a look of gratitude and love.
"You've changed my life, (Y/N)," he said, his voice filled with sincerity. "I don't know how I would have faced all of this without you."
(Y/N) smiled, her heart swelling with affection. "You've changed mine too, James. And I'm so proud of the man you're becoming."
James leaned in, pressing a tender kiss to her lips. At that moment, as they bathed in the golden glow of the setting sun, (Y/N) was happier than ever. And as they held each other close, their hearts beating in harmony, they knew that their love was the greatest strength they could ever have.
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maxton hall - episode two
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xthecaptainssaviorx · 1 month
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"It's okay."
Maxton Hall - The World Between Us
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aaronwarner · 19 days
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Maxton Hall: The World Between Us
S01E03: Exposed
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wowthatsextra · 27 days
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An indefinite list of every time James Beaufort was the most head over heels pathetic pining mess over Ruby Bell
The arm nibbling... sir that is not
His Pride and Prejudice moment at Oxford
Jumped into the pool and carried her out in front of everyone
Gave her Queen Victoria's Dress
Ran around the whole school trying to catch hundreds of chickens for her gala and when his friends tried to make fun of him for it, he owned it and made them help him
Kept circling around her house because she fell asleep in his arms and he didn’t want to wake her up
Printed a huge ass poster of him and Ruby and put it up for the whole school to see as an apology for making her feel like he was ashamed of her (he wasn’t)
The fact that whenever Ruby is around he keeps zoning out of conversations
To add to that, told Alistair that he was being too obvious about being into Kesh but then got distracted by Ruby walking by and Alistair was like "You're one to talk"
Was insanely jealous of any guy she talked to (even gay Alistair 😭) and started a fight with the Oxford guy in front of everybody
Drew her from memory after she apologized to him for dragging his ass in class and gave it to her on her birthday
Ran after Ruby at Oxford even though 1. She just dragged his ass again in public and 2. he knows they can't be together
"You're not invisible anymore. Not to me"
"I know exactly what I want"
While making a list about things he likes "The most important one- you"
"For you I'll be anything that you want- whether it's your lover or your boy toy"
"You drive me crazy. Do you know what you're doing to me right now? Do you have any idea how hard it is for me to see you, and to hear your voice?" You're the Bane of My Existence and the Object of All My Desires 2.0
"My family saw how much I changed because of you"
Lashed out when his father called her a gold digger
Took pictures of her smiling
Went on his knees asking her to dance
The way he looked at her when she was coming down the stairs wearing the dress
Skipped his whatever meeting it was to take her on a spontaneous trip to London
Went out of his room at night to see her at Oxford
His awe when he saw her naked 😭
The extra kisses when the bus was waiting for her at Oxford
Instinctively tried to sit next to her at Oxford even though they were broken up
Broke his own heart trying to save her and her family from his father's wrath. He'd rather have her hate him than let her or her family get hurt (can u hear me sobbing)
Literally gave up being the face of the Young Beaufort Line so he didn’t miss her birthday (insane how this was only episode 4 before they even KISSED)
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murasaki-cha · 24 days
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The way this scene fundamentally changed me as a person, no joke it rewired my entire brain chemistry.
I have watched it so many times I stopped keeping count. I have watched it 5 times in the last 15 min. I'm gonna start reciting it by heart and if I watch it a bit more I might once again recite it by heart but in german.
Damian and Harriet had RENT DUE!! Damian and Harriet cooked so hard they burned the kitchen!! THE DIRECTOR SAID TAKE 5 BUT DAMIAN AND HARRIET HEARD CHANGE LIVES!!!
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softzindagi · 29 days
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I can't, Ruby. I'm sorry, okay?
Maxton Hall: The World Between Us - Episode 6
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elsafromcabinsix · 1 month
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enemies to lovers you will always be famous
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uniquexusposts · 21 days
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hi!! would you consider writing a part 2 of the james beaufort one shot that you wrote? absolutely loved it!!
The best friend - James Beaufort (2)
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Click here to read part 1
Main characters: James Beaufort x reader Genre: fanfiction, fluff, TV show  Word count: 2567
Summary: Y/N invited James and his sister Lydia for a day out at the water. Will this be the moment for a lot of realisation?
It was around 22:00h when Y/N stopped the car in the driveway and glanced at James. “Shall I wait here, or do I have to park over there?” She pointed at the free spot behind Percy’s car, next to the wall of his house.
“You can wait,” James replied, his tone neutral.
She nodded and put the car in park, setting the handbrake. As James unbuckled his seatbelt and opened the door, he hesitated. “Actually…” He turned to her. “I think it’s weird if you stay here. But then you will have to…” He pressed his lips into a thin line.
“I’ll park the car,” Y/N responded. James got out, and Y/N parked behind Percy’s car. She then stepped out, swiftly putting her hair up with a clip and leaving a few strands to frame her face. Opening the trunk, she swapped her trainers for heels. Locking the car, she walked over to James. “How do I look?”
James scanned his best friend from head to toe. The transformation from casual to chic business attire was seamless. A smile spread across his face. “Like a businesswoman,” he said.
“Perfect.” Her heels clinked on the concrete as they walked together toward the front door.
“How…” He glanced at her, curiosity piqued. “How did you know about the heels? The preparation?”
“Women’s secret,” she teased. “It’s my mum’s car. She always has an extra pair of heels in the trunk. And by wearing the most comfortable trousers that look chic and classy. Always be prepared, James.” The front door opened just as she finished speaking. “You never know what to expect.” 
James looked impressed and stuck out his arm, signing she could enter the house first. 
“Miss Y/L/N,” one of the maids said. “Mister Beaufort.”
“Good evening,” James said formally. 
Y/N always noticed how James’ demeanour changed when he was at his own house. Here, he was quieter, his smiles less frequent, and his energy felt... different. The lively, carefree James she knew so well seemed to retreat, replaced by a more reserved version of himself. If she was honest, James acted like an asshole when he was home. 
“Hello,” the cheery voice of Y/N said. 
As they walked through the grand foyer, Y/N couldn't help but feel a pang of sadness for him. The house was magnificent, yet it seemed to cast a shadow over James' vibrant personality. It was his home, and she respected and accepted that. 
When they reached the living room, it almost seemed like James’ parents were expecting them. Mr. and Mrs. Beaufort stood beside each other, ready to greet the two young adults. “Good evening, James. Y/N,” Mr Beaufort said, nodding slightly in acknowledgement. Mrs Beaufort offered a polite smile, though it didn’t quite reach her eyes.
“Good evening, Mr and Mrs Beaufort,” Y/N replied, her voice respectful yet warm.
“Whence the honour to see you here so late?” Mr Beaufort asked Y/N. 
“Lydia and I are invited for a sailing trip with Y/N’s family,” James answered for Y/N. “So we are here to pick up Lydia.”
Mrs Beaufort nodded, her smile turning more genuine. Despite a pang of jealousy over the warmth and inviting nature of Y/N’s family, she was glad her children could receive that kind of respect and hospitality from them.
“That sounds delightful,” Mrs. Beaufort said. “Lydia will be pleased.”
“I will go get my bag and pick up Lydia,” James excused himself, touching Y/N’s lower back briefly. 
As soon as James was out of sight, Y/N was immediately offered a drink. Recognising it as an invitation to engage in conversation, she asked for a glass of water and sat on the sofa. It didn’t take long for Mr. Beaufort to seize the opportunity to inquire about her parents’ business, probing for information and potential investment opportunities. Y/N barely knew anything about James’ family, but she knew everything about their business. And probably vice versa. Y/N’s entire personality changed from herself to a businesswoman. She knew how to navigate these conversations carefully, revealing enough to satisfy curiosity but not too much to compromise her family’s privacy. She skillfully deflects any attempts to delve too deeply into sensitive details. She was polite and engaging yet maintained a firm boundary around the specifics of her parents’ business strategies.
After a few more minutes, James returned with his bag and Lydia behind him. When Lydia saw Y/N, she cheerfully smiled. 
“It was delightful catching up with you, Mr. and Mrs. Beaufort,” Y/N politely smiled and got up. “Good evening,” she said goodbye to James's parents. 
As Y/N and Lydia made their way to Y/N’s car, Mr. Beaufort stopped James, sharing some possible investment or collaboration strategies with Y/N’s family. James listened politely, nodding along, but he knew he had no intention of pursuing these discussions. When he could finally excuse himself, he stepped outside to find Y/N reversing the car to make getting in easier. He never expected to think this, but he could kiss her on the spot. Y/N was thoughtful about so many things, but it made him feel weak. As he approached the car, he noticed Lydia already comfortably settled in the back seat, chatting animatedly with Y/N. James opened the passenger door and slid in, seeing how Y/N had already turned back into herself. 
“Ready to go?” Y/N asked.
“Absolutely,” James replied, feeling a sense of relief as they drove away from the formal atmosphere of his home. 
“Y/N,” Lydia said. Y/N had a quick glance at her in the mirror. “Have you ever considered to be a spin doctor? Or a spokeswoman? Because the way you communicate… Not to brag about myself, I know things about being a spokesperson, but you are a natural talent.” She smiled. “Oh, and thanks for the invite!” 
Y/N bit her lip; she had never received a compliment like this. 
“You talk so easily,” James added. “And you always know what to say when improvising.”
“Oh, stop it,” Y/N mumbled and entered the main road. “Thanks, I guess.” She licked her lips. “But yeah, I will reconsider it,’ she mumbled, driving back towards her house.
* * * 
The sun was high in the sky as James, Lydia, Y/N and her family spent the day on the boat, anchored in a bay the following day. They weren’t the only ones who thought spending some time on the waters was a good idea: it felt like the entire country (well, more like the region) was present. But that didn’t stop anyone from enjoying the day. The gentle rocking of the boat and the sounds of the sea created a perfect backdrop for a day of relaxation and fun. 
Lunch was served an hour ago. It was more like a picnic, but it was delicious. Y/N had been reading a book, and James was taking a nap in the sun. The others were swimming, playing board games, reading, or simply enjoying the tranquility. 
James woke up from his nap and felt the sun burn on his skin. He sat up and stretched his arms. His eyes scanned the surroundings and a satisfied smile came on his lips. Then his eyes fell on Y/N, who was in her own world while reading. “Y/N/N,” he softly said. 
She looked away from her book, slightly distracted. “Hmm, ja?” 
“Shall we go for a swim?”
“Scared to go alone?” A playful smile came on her face. 
“Always.” 
She smirked. “Give me a minute, I’ve one page left.” 
“Okay,” he said and got up, walking to the cabin to get a cold water bottle. The boat wasn’t huge, but big enough to have every facility on it to serve an entire family. James returned to find Y/N setting her book aside. He handed over the bottle of water. “Stay hydrated.”
She thankfully smiled and took a huge sip. “Much needed, though,” she replied. She threw the bottle on the sofa. “Ready?” 
“Say no more.”
They walked to the edge of the boat, the sun reflecting off the water’s surface. Their eyes both squinted because of the bright reflection. James looked at Y/N; she was inspecting the water, doubting whether she should jump into it. A grin covered his face, and without hesitation, he jumped into the water in front of her. 
Y/N gasped as the splash hit her, then laughed, shaking her head. 
James widely smiled and brushed his hair out of his face. “Where are you waiting for?” 
She rolled her eyes but smiled, taking a deep breath before diving in after him. The cool water was refreshing, and she quickly surfaced, shaking her head to remove the water droplets. “Oef,” she breathed. “My skin was so warm that the water feels so fucking cold.”
A laugh escaped his lips. “Don’t be such a wimp,” he said and splashed some water towards her direction. 
“Ha-ha,” she retorted, playfully splashing him back.”
They began to float around. Sometimes, they point at another boat in the distance and talk about it or laugh about a memory. 
“So… Do you know what you want to do after school?” Y/N asked the forbidden question. 
James stared in the distance, trying to think of an answer to give. Oxford… That was on his plan. Correction: on his parents’ planning. “Oxford.”
“To do what?” Y/N raised her eyebrows. 
He sighed. “Can we talk about this another time? This is not the time.”
“Sure…” Y/N rubbed her face. “I’m just curious and worried.”
“Why?”
“Because.”
“You didn’t like it when I asked you the same question.”
“Because I didn’t know what I wanted.”
James turned to look at her. Despite the severe nature of their conversation, he couldn’t help but notice how beautiful she looked in the afternoon light. Her cheeks had a sun-kissed glow, and with her hair pulled back, her features were more defined. There was a caring look in her eyes, one that James had always had a weakness for. “I don’t know what I want either.”
“I thought you had a plan,” she said surprisingly. 
“Oxford, spokesperson for Young Beaufort, other projects and eventually take over the business,” he listed off, a hint of frustration in his voice “The plan that was made before I was even born. So no, I don’t know what I want because it’s not my plan.”
Y/N knew about it. Lydia had the same kind of path planned out for her. But somewhere, she had always hoped James and Lydia would pick their own path. She could sense the conflict within him, torn between the expectations placed upon him and his own desires. 
“And I can’t just take a gap year because my parents are less accommodating than yours. I have to live that perfect life, I can’t just try things and hope they work out. My parents have high expectations from me and the last thing that they will do is accept a gap year where I can explore my passion,” he snapped. 
She pressed her lips into a thin line and looked down. “I know,” she said softly, her voice laced with empathy. “But sometimes, you must carve out your own path, despite what others may expect of you. It’s not easy, but it’s worth fighting for your own happiness.”
“Y/N, I know you want the best for me but I can’t make it true, okay? I know you try to cheer me up or give me some help, but I can’t. I appreciate it, but it’s my life,” he shot back. “And don’t take it personally; it’s something I have to deal with myself.” 
“I understand,” she softly said, her heart aching for him. And then her heart dropped at the most wrong moment; she felt something brush against her leg. A loud gasp left Y/N’s mouth, and she reached for James. “Ew, ew, ew,” she panicked and clamped her legs around his waist, wrapping her arms around his neck. “I felt something! There’s something here!” 
James was taken aback by Y/N's sudden panic, his mind still processing their conversation. But when he felt her grip tighten around him, he quickly snapped out of it, his instincts kicking in. He wrapped his arms around her protectively, scanning the water around them for any sign of danger.
“What? What is it?” he asked urgently, his voice laced with concern as he searched for the source of her distress.
“I-I don’t know,” Y/N stammered, her heart racing as she clung to him tightly. “I just felt something brush against my leg, and it freaked me out.”
James glanced around, his eyes narrowed as he tried to spot any movement in the water. “Stay calm,” he said reassuringly, though his own heart was pounding in his chest. Then he saw something in the water; just a plant. A snort left his mouth. “It’s a plant, Y/N,” he said and reached for it. 
“No, I swear, it was not.”
“Look,” he said and held up the plant. A laugh rolled over his lips. “Just a plant.” 
Y/N scanned the plant. “No, it was something else.” Her lips parted. “Don’t laugh,” she mocked and softly slapped his chest. His laughter filled her ears. 
His laughter grew louder, the tension from their earlier conversation dissipating as they shared a lighthearted moment. "Alright, alright," he conceded, still grinning. "But I promise you, there's nothing to worry about. Just a harmless sea plant.” He held her close, his arm around her waist and her body pressed against his. With his other arm, he made movements to stay above the water. “Let’s get back to the boat,” he grinned. “But you have to swim yourself. I will stay close, okay?”
She nodded and slowly let go of him, still staying close to him, almost afraid to move. James grabbed her hand and waved their fingers together. 
As they swam back towards the boat, Y/N couldn't shake the feeling of James's hand in hers, the warmth of his touch sending ripples of electricity through her veins. She stole glances at him as they moved through the water; His hair, damp from the water, fell slightly tousled across his forehead, accentuating the soft curve of his jawline. The sunlight danced across his skin, highlighting the subtle freckles dusted across his face. 
With each stroke, Y/N felt herself drawn closer to James, the distance between them narrowing until they were side by side, their fingers intertwined as they moved through the water together. And at that moment, surrounded by the vast expanse of the sea and the boundless sky above, Y/N felt a sense of peace wash over her—a feeling of belonging that she had never experienced before.
When they reached the boat's ladder, James turned to look at her, his eyes soft and gentle as he helped her climb aboard. “Are you okay? Alive? Do you still have all your limbs?” 
Her face straightened. “Shut up.” 
He widely smiled. “See, nothing to be afraid of.” 
Click here to go to part 3
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NEVER EVER GETTING OVER THIS SCENE 😭
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beaufortsbell · 20 days
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They really put all of this in the same episode. THEY ARE INSANE
(1x03 exposed)
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unniedosdramas · 26 days
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maxton hall - episode three
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itsgreti · 10 days
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UNSPOKEN FEELINGS
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pairing. james beaufort x f!reader
summary. james realizes he has deeper feelings for lydia's best friend.
warning. slight cursing, mentions of cheating
word count. 1.4k
a/n: i just watched maxton hall and felt the urge to write a quick fic. english is my second language, so if you find any mistakes, don't hesitate and text me! (divider is made by rookthornesartistry)
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The prestigious campus of Maxton Hall Boarding School was a world itself, where the rich teenage life unfolded in all its complexity. Among its many students were James Beaufort, the charming and popular heartthrob, and his twin sister Lydia, known for her big mouth, but besides that, intelligence. (Y/N) was Lydia's best friend since they were toddlers, and because of that she often finds herself in the company of the Beauforts. Despite this, (Y/N) felt like a shadow, always in the background and unnoticed by James. His attractive presence draws attention, as he walks around the hallway, towering over others, always surrounded by admirers. Like everyone in the school, (Y/N) also had a crush on him, but she knew she would always be only his little sister’s friend. And she had long accepted that.
The (Y/L/N) family is famous internationally, because of their luxurious, high-quality dresses. They often collaborate with the market-leading fashion brand, Young Beaufort. But (Y/N) usually wished for just a simple way of life, without fame. All the children, who inherit their family’s legacy, are burdened by the weight of expectations and pressure.
To make things worse, it was a chilly afternoon when (Y/N)'s world shattered. She had been dating a boy from another school, a relationship that seemed promising but ended in betrayal and heartbreak. The boy had just played with her, and thrown away her without a second thought. (Y/N) was devastated and hurt.
Lydia was away on a school trip, leaving (Y/N) with her emotions alone. She wandered the campus aimlessly, eventually finding an isolated bench near the gardens, where she let the tears flow freely.
Unaware of (Y/N), James had noticed her distressed state from afar. He had been passing by when he saw her sitting alone, shoulders shaking with silent sobs. Concerned, he approached quietly, unsure of how to begin.
"(Y/N)," he said softly, startling them. "Are you okay?"
(Y/N) quickly wiped her tears, attempting to make herself presentable. "Oh, James. I'm fine. Just... having a rough day."
James sat down beside her, his expression gentle but insistent. "You don't look fine. What happened?"
The unexpected kindness in his voice broke through (Y/N)'s defences. She looked at him, eyes filled with pain, and sighed. "It's just... this guy I was dating. He turned out to be a jerk. He used me and then just... dumped me."
James's jaw tightened, a flash of anger in his eyes. "Who is he?"
"It doesn’t matter. He’s not from Maxton Hall." (Y/N) shrugged her shoulders.
When James heard the pain in her voice, he decided to deal with her now, and it will be enough later to get to know about that asshole. "I'm sorry, (Y/N). You didn't deserve that."
(Y/N) shook her head, feeling small and insignificant. "I should have seen it coming. I'm not exactly someone would notice."
James frowned, shifting closer. "That's not true. People notice you, (Y/N). I notice you."
(Y/N) looked at him in surprise. "You... notice me?" she said with irony.
James was confused, but nodded, his gaze sincere. "Of course I do." (Y/N)’s heart skipped a beat hearing those words. "You're important to Lydia, which makes you important to me. And beyond that, you're a great person. Anyone would be lucky to have you in their life."
The warmth in his words and the intensity of his gaze made (Y/N) feel a flicker of hope. She had always seen James as someone out of reach, but here he was, sitting beside her, offering comfort and understanding.
"Thank you, James," she whispered, feeling the weight of her sadness begins to lift. "It means a lot."
James smiled softly, his hand reaching out to gently squeeze hers. "I do care about you, (Y/N). And if that guy couldn't see how amazing you are, then he's the one who's missing out."
For a moment, they sat in comfortable silence, the cold air around them a sharp contrast to the warmth blossoming in (Y/N)'s heart. James's presence was a balm to their wounded soul, a reminder that she was not alone.
"Do you want to talk more about it?" James asked, his voice gentle. "Or maybe we can just sit here for a while. Whatever you need."
(Y/N) smiled, feeling a sense of gratitude and a newfound connection. "Sitting here is nice. Thank you, James," she said feeling his arms pull her into a hug.
As they sat together, (Y/N) realized that maybe, just maybe, she had been wrong about James’s emotions towards her. Perhaps he had been seeing her all along, and in this moment of weakness, she had realised that her feelings for her had not changed over the years.
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The weeks following that emotional afternoon saw a gradual but significant shift in the dynamics between James and (Y/N). Where once their interactions were only about polite nods and casual greetings, now there were shared moments, conversations, and a growing sense of friendship.
James found himself looking forward to seeing (Y/N) more than he ever anticipated. Her presence was comforting, her laughter infectious, and her perspectives refreshing. He was drawn to (Y/N) in a way that was new and unexpected, and it unsettled him in the best possible way. He finally had to admit that he had lied to himself all the years when he said he didn’t care about (Y/N).
(Y/N) felt the change too. She was still close to Lydia, but now James seemed to seek her out independently. He'd join them for lunch, walk with them between classes, and even invite them to hang out with his friends, to where (Y/N) always refused to go and eventually Lydia accepted it. It was confusing but exhilarating.
One evening, while Lydia was busy with her extracurricular activities, James invited (Y/N) to study with him at a cosy coffee shop off-campus. They settled into a quiet corner, books and notebooks spread out before them.
"You know," James said, looking up from his notes, "I never realized how much fun studying could be until I started doing it with you."
(Y/N) laughed softly, their cheeks flushing. "I have never thought that once in my lifetime I will hear that from the mouth of James Beaufort, but I think you just enjoy the coffee and the company."
James smiled, but there was a depth to his gaze that made (Y/N) look away shyly. "You're right about that. But it's more than that. You're different, (Y/N). In a good way. You make everything better."
(Y/N) felt her heart skip a beat. The sincerity in his voice was undeniable. "Thanks. Spending time with you isn't that bad either."
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As the weeks went on, James's feelings for (Y/N) deepened. He found himself thinking about her at odd times, daydreaming about their future conversations, and feeling jealous when he saw her with others. It was during one of these moments when he saw (Y/N) laughing with Cyril, that he realized the truth: he had fallen for (Y/N).
The next day, James asked (Y/N) to meet him in the gardens where they had first bonded. The air was cool, the sky painted with the hues of sunset.
"(Y/N)," James began, taking a deep breath. "There's something I need to tell you."
(Y/N) looked at him, concern flickering in their eyes. "What is it?"
"I've been thinking a lot, and I realized something important," he continued, his voice steady but his heart racing. "That day when you sat with me here, something changed for me. Spending time with you, getting to know you better... I've come to realize that I have feelings for you. Romantic feelings."
(Y/N) stared at him, her breath catching in their throat. "James, I... I-"
James stepped closer, his eyes locked on her. "You don't have to say anything right now. I just needed you to know how I feel. Whatever you decide, our friendship means a lot to me, and I don't want to lose that."
Tears welled up in (Y/N)'s eyes, but they were tears of happiness and relief. "James, I feel the same way. I've liked you for a long time, but I never thought you'd feel the same."
James's face broke into a radiant smile, and he reached out to gently hold (Y/N)'s face in his hands. With that, James leaned in, closing the distance between them. Their lips met in a soft, tender kiss, a perfect blend of nervous excitement and genuine affection.
As they pulled away, both of them breathless and smiling, James whispered, "I've wanted to do that for so long."
(Y/N) smiled back, her eyes shining with happiness. "Me too."
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aaronwarner · 16 days
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Harriet Herbig-Matten and Damian Hardung first costume rehearsal for Maxton Hall: The World Between Us.
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