#rcd thomas hunt

[alj4890]

Perceive

(Thomas Hunt x OC) in a Choices Red Carpet Diaries One Shot

As requested by @hopelessromantic1352 with the prompt: "I see the way you look at me when you think I'm not looking.

A/N Not a part of any of my AU's for this otp, but still one I could see happening for them. For this prompt, Thomas and Amanda only casually know one another through their mutual friend, Ryan Summers.

Masterlist

***************

An exclusive resort in The Maldives...

Ryan Summers, Hollywood's most beloved leading man, was determined to get away for a month. He decided that not only would he leave all his stresses behind, but that those he was fond of should come along and make it an epic vacation.

He gathered his eclectic group of friends and persuaded them to all join him at a resort in The Maldives . He secured the rooms, booked activities, and even made an itinerary of spa reservations he personally selected for each one of his guests.

Now that he was on one of the tiny islands, he immediately began to relax. He looked over at his oldest friend and knew there was at least one in their group who needed to find a way to loosen up and enjoy things that weren't necessarily work.

Thomas Hunt did not want to go on vacation. He would have preferred to remain in his home or even in the studio, preparing for his next project. Unfortunately for him, Ryan was one of the few people in his life he couldn't refuse.

"I think we've finally reached paradise." Ryan removed his sunglasses so he could fully take in the beauty of the white sandy beach and turquoise water.

Thomas merely grunted in agreement.

"You're not impressed, are you?" Ryan asked.

"Of course I am." Thomas replied. "It's only that this is unnecessary."

"Unnecessary?" Ryan repeated in disbelief. "This is extremely necessary."

He placed his hand on Thomas's shoulder and gave him a slight shake.

"You are going to die of a heart attack if you don't find a way to relax every once in a while."

"I'm in perfect shape." Thomas argued. "I eat right, exercise, and--'"

"And when's the last time you took a vacation." Ryan countered. "I mean one, where you traveled somewhere not because you were scouting for possible locations to shoot your next film."

"I don't need vacations." His friend folded his arms. "I'm perfectly content with how I live my life."

"Uh huh." Ryan rolled his eyes. "At least try, for my sake, to enjoy this brief reprieve from your usual schedule."

Thomas watched him walk away to greet a few other people who'd newly arrived. He still didn't see why he had to be dragged along on this venture. He understood that Ryan might need a break from his hectic schedule. The man had been filming back to back movies for the past two years.

Thomas, on the other hand, relished having a packed schedule. Downtime meant the creativity had ceased to flow. He needed it to remain at its peak so that his films struck the audiences with the appropriate emotional gut punch he attempted to have in each one.

Now here he was in what was undeniably paradise with nothing to do.

Releasing a deep sigh, he decided to go see what his villa was like.

*****************

"Room service."

Amanda, the Duchess of St Orella, looked towards her door in surprise. She hadn't ordered anything since she just arrived. She set aside the clothes she'd begun to unpack and went to see just what had been ordered.

"Ryan!" She hugged the man who stood in her doorway. "It's so good to see you again!"

He squeezed her, lifting her off her feet and causing her to giggle.

"How long has it been, Duchess?" He asked once he set her on her feet.

"Much too long." She replied. "Between your schedule and my own, I think the last time we saw it each other was at that charity gala in Madrid."

He winced. "That was over a year ago."

"I know." She smiled at him. "Some of us are too popular to visit friends."

"Trust me, I would happily spend a lot more time in Cordonia." He walked over to the sliding glass door, looking out at the beauty framed before them. "I intend on making some changes in my life."

"What kind?" She asked.

"The kind where I can sit back and enjoy life before I get too old to do so." Ryan replied, turning once more to face her. "In fact, I hope this vacation makes us all want to make those necessary changes."

"I'd like to." She admitted. "After Liam's whirlwind of a coronation and wedding, I could use a break."

"Good." He was relieved to hear her say that. After talking to Thomas, he'd begun to doubt that his friends truly knew they needed a reprieve from their lifestyles.

"I'll leave you to your unpacking." He smiled his megawatt, heart stopping smile at her. "And I expect to see you taking advantage of all the relaxing activities I have planned."

"Can't wait." She told him.

"Don't forget to meet everyone for dinner tonight." He reminded her on his way out.

"I won't." Amanda promised.

She shut her door and began to wonder just who else Ryan had invited along on this journey.

***********************

An hour before dinner, Amanda changed into a sundress. She stepped out on her shared veranda with the the villa next door to admire their private infinity pool. Her breath caught at the site of the sun setting, making everything around seem almost magical.

She'd never really been into tropical destinations for vacations, but even she was moved by the sheer beauty of the place.

Her attention drifted over to the right when she heard the slight shooshing of a sliding glass door being opened.

A smile lit up her face when she saw who her neighbor would be for the next couple of weeks.

Thomas paused when he saw her. A hint of a smile curved his lips as he went to join the young woman he'd come to know through Ryan.

"Amanda." He greeted. "I see Ryan dragged you into this too."

She laughed while shaking his hand. "He is very difficult to say, no, to."

"Indeed he is." He slipped his hands in his pockets. Glancing about, he asked, "Are you here with Randolph?"

"We ended things about six months ago."

"Ah." He replied. "I'm sorry."

"There's no need to be." She smiled at him. "We both realized that though we are fond of each other, there simply wasn't any spark."

"I'm glad then that neither of you is left heartbroken." He leaned against the railing, keeping his gaze upon her.

"What about you?" Amanda asked. "Any new romances the gossip networks failed to mention?"

He chuckled, shaking his head. "None. I've been far too busy to even think of dating."

"What a pity." She muttered.

His eyes narrowed somewhat, wondering what she meant by that.

She cocked her head towards her villa. "Want to walk with me? It's almost time to meet Ryan and everyone else for dinner."

"Of course." He fell into step beside. "We are neighbors, after all."

Amanda's smile grew at the thought. "I suppose that means we will be seeing a lot of each other these next few weeks."

Thomas cut his eyes towards her. "I suppose so."

****************

The next few days, the pair saw each other more than they anticipated.

In the mornings, Thomas took advantage of their private pool to do his daily laps. By the time he finished, Amanda was usually coming out to try and get a tan. It became a habit of Thomas drying off so he could help apply sunblock to her back.

They'd then sit side by side, lounging in the sun together, talking over whatever came to mind. Often they would sit in a companionable silence, simply enjoying the peaceful surroundings.

When lunch time came around, they'd either share room service or go to one of the resort's restaurants. When out, they would be joined by some of Ryan's friends or the actor himself. They'd then go change and enjoy one of the excursions Ryan had planned.

The times where they were invited to do different activities, apart from one another, they'd meet up for dinner.

Thomas found himself enjoying this trip more so than he'd first thought he would.

And then... Ryan's beach party happened.

****************

"Each time I think this place can't possibly become more beautiful, I see something like this." Amanda gestured to the small beach softly lit while dusk fell across the sky.

Ryan handed her a fruity cocktail and nodded as he gazed out at the picture perfect setting.

"This really is paradise." He said, smiling softly at her. "I'm glad to see we are all enjoying it."

"I know I am." She glanced over to where Thomas was talking to a few other people.

Ryan followed her gaze, his brow furrowed for a moment at the way she was looking at his oldest friend.

When Thomas looked over towards them, Amanda quickly averted her eyes.

Ryan was highly amused at this new development. Deciding to see if anything might be revealed, he cleared his throat.

"Now that you're single," he winked at her, "how about I start introducing you to some people I think you might like."

Amanda blushed somewhat. "Given you know mostly glamorous actors, I don't think I would be what they are looking for in a significant other."

"Of course you are!" He made a show of looking about to ask for someone else's opinion. "Thomas!"

Amanda stilled when he motioned for him to join them.

Thomas excused himself and came over. Cocking his eyebrow in question, he looked back and forth between the two.

"I need your opinion." Ryan began. "Now that Amanda's single, don't you think she's perfect for--"

"Stop!" She laughed nervously. "There's no need to ask anyone anything like that."

Her cheeks were burning with the thought of Thomas being put on the spot. Of course he'd say she was perfect for someone else. What else could he say with her standing right there? Pity and kind lies were the last things she wanted from him.

"Then you'll let me introduce you to some people once we return home?" Ryan prodded.

Amanda would have promised him her firstborn just to get out of this conversation.

"Yes." She began to inch away from the two men. "If you'll excuse me, I'm going to find somewhere to sit down."

Thomas watched her leave, a bemused expression upon his face.

"What was that all about?"

"Just Amanda being her usual shy self." Ryan chuckled as he finished off his cocktail.

"Ah." Thomas replied.

He continued to study her as she sat down near a place lighted with lanterns and tiki torches.

"She's something, isn't she?" Ryan nudged him with his elbow.

Thomas slowly nodded. "She is very easy to be around."

"That she is." Ryan conceded. "But I think that there's something more to her than that."

Thomas returned his attention to the conversation. "What do you mean?"

"She's attractive." Ryan replied. "Though she doesn't see it, which makes her all the more endearing."

Thomas eyed him. "Is that why you invited her?"

"No." Ryan quickly replied. "I genuinely like her."

"Ah." It was all becoming clear to Thomas. "You're planning on asking her out."

Ryan's eyes widened. "What? No. At one time I thought we might make a good match, but too much time went by and we were too good of friends to chance dating." He shook his head. "I intend on finding her someone."

"Is that why you called me over?" Thomas grumbled, already feeling his rebellious nature rearing its head at the thought of being set up on a blind date of sorts. "You wanted me to be the one with her?"

"Not at all. The thought never crossed my mind of setting up the two of you." Ryan lied. "I simply wanted you to help me convince her that she could easily be a part of our world if she found someone from it she liked."

"Oh." Thomas didn't particularly like that notion either. The thought of her with someone else he knew did not sit well at all.

"Once she falls for whomever I find for her, she'll see that she's perfect within our society."

Ryan, quite pleased with himself, walked away to talk to others after seeing a fierce frown appear on Thomas's face.

****************

Amanda found herself drinking more than she normally would have in the hopes of erasing the fact that she suspected Ryan was talking to everyone about setting her up. She downed a few more fruity cocktails when she recalled that he most likely talked to Thomas about her.

Wincing over that notion, she waved a waiter over for another refill.

"Of all the men," she mumbled to herself, "he would tell that one."

She had no intention of ever falling for a man from Hollywood. She knew her jealous nature and her vast array of insecurities. The thought of seeing someone she was in love with share a passionate love scene with some gorgeous, couldn't be physically possible to look like that, actress would be the end of any peace of mind she possessed.

She knew what she could and could not handle and actors were a definite, no.

What about directors, her traitorous mind whispered.

Amanda lifted her eyes, searching the small crowd for the man she'd grown increasingly close.

She felt herself melt when she saw him illuminated by some torches.

He's so handsome.

Seeing him in various states of dress, from his swim trunks to his suits had done a number on her ability to try to be unmoved by how attractive he was.

She knew she was staring at him more and more as the days went by. The thing was, it wasn't because she thought him the sexiest man she'd ever had the good fortune to meet. She had somehow ended up falling for him.

She loved all the moments she had alone with him. His dry humor had the ability to make her laugh until tears came to her eyes. She adored hearing his deep voice talk about anything from the weather to a movie he thought she might enjoy. His calm nature, though somewhat jaded, meshed well with her own optimism.

She'd even caught him a time or two looking at her with a slight smile to his lips. He seemed to enjoy his time with her as much as she did hers with him.

Or is it because he can only handle these people in small doses, she wondered.

Whatever it was, she was losing her heart and couldn't think of how to make it stop.

****************

Thomas could tell she was staring at him again. Without being too obvious, he cut his eyes over to where she sat. He wasn't one to normally be pleased with drawing attention, yet something about having Amanda's was different.

He actually wanted her to notice him.

He enjoyed having her to himself this past week. And though he initially bucked at the thought of Ryan setting him up with her, he wouldn't mind testing the waters, especially since she seemed more than receptive. He only wanted to do so without any pressure from outside sources.

He watched her as she joined Ryan's group. Her smile seemed a touch strained but her laugh had the same rich sound he'd become used to.

Thomas's brow furrowed when he saw her squeeze Ryan's hand then leave, disappearing into the darkness.

Excusing himself once again from the group he was currently talking to, he pulled Ryan aside.

"Where did she go?" He whispered.

"Who?" Ryan purposely remained oblivious.

"Amanda." Thomas hissed.

"Oh." Ryan shrugged. "She went back to her villa."

"Why?" Thomas prodded. "Was something wrong?"

"I don't know." Ryan replied.

He took a few steps forward to only be yanked back.

"You don't know?" Thomas bit out. "How do you not know? You're one of the nosiest people I know to not have a career in journalism."

"She didn't say why she was leaving. I assumed she was tired." Ryan responded. "And since I assumed she was tired, I saw no reason to question her."

Thomas glared at him. The one time he wanted information on someone and his only source was absolutely useless.

"I'm going to make sure she's okay." He grumbled, walking away.

Ryan fought back a smile.

*****************

"Just a minute!" Amanda yelled out.

She struggled out of her sundress. Once off, she straightened the strapless bikini she'd worn underneath it as she headed towards the door.

Without checking to see who it was, she opened it, stilling at the sight of the man in front of her.

Thomas froze. He'd never seen her before in a swimsuit like the one she was currently in.

"Um." He forced his eyes off her body. "I, I saw you leave and wanted to make certain you were all right."

"I am." She mumbled. "I had too much to drink and thought I should come back here to sober up."

He nodded. She didn't sound too tipsy. In fact, the way she spoke didn't reveal she'd had anything to drink.

"What were you going to do?" He asked, his gaze drifting along her curves.

"I was going to go for a swim to clear my head."

His eyes lifted to hers. Tilting his head in thought, he walked inside her villa, pausing until he was just a couple of feet away from her.

"Want some company?"

NO! Her mind screamed out. The last thing she needed in her current frame of mind was to see him half naked in the moonlight.

"I wouldn't mind yours." She replied instead.

His smile grew bigger. "I'll go change."

She slumped against a chair once he was gone.

"This is a bad idea." She muttered.

A few minutes later, she was cursing her luck. It wasn't like she hadn't seen Thomas in nothing but trunks before. She supposed what was different was that she knew she'd fallen for him and wished she could touch him the way her dreams allowed her to.

Thomas tossed a robe and towel on a lounge chair and dove into the water.

He came to the surface, smoothing his hair back.

"Come on in." He encouraged when she simply stood there staring at him. "The water feels warm."

She slid on the next to the last step and went under.

A slight tremble rushed through her that had nothing to do with being chilled.

She decided to use the steps instead of jumping into the water. She didn't trust herself enough to keep from drowning.

She resurfaced, gasping for air.

Thomas helped get her hair out of her eyes, then set his hands on her waist.

"Are you alright?" He asked.

"Yes." She coughed. "I'm fine."

The two bobbed in the water, simply looking at each other.

"You can, um, let me go. I'm not going to drown tonight." She tried to joke.

Thomas kept his arms around her. He'd thought her pretty, but something about tonight and seeing her in a bathing suit that revealed so much of her figure to perfection, made him make a few quick life changing decisions.

"I see the way you look at me when you think I'm not looking."

Amanda felt like she wanted to walk into the ocean and never stop until she sank beneath the waves.

He's seen me staring at him! Oh dear Lord. What must he think of me?!

"I'm so," she swallowed, trying to find the appropriate words for how embarrassed she felt, "mortified."

"If you'd kept looking," he added, ignoring that confession, "you would have seen me looking at you the same way."

Amanda's eyes flew to his face to see if he was messing with her.

He tugged her close to truly test what might be between them. "And now I wonder..."

Thomas pressed a tender kiss to her lips.

He could feel her stiffen in shock at first, then her arms wrapped around his neck.

The kiss deepened as the two moved even closer together.

Legs tangled while they embraced. Hands moved along the other as desire spiked through their veins. Thomas could feel her smiling against his lips.

He pulled back to look into her eyes. His own lips curved at the feelings of having her in his arms evoked.

"Perhaps I should wonder more often." He murmured.

She smiled, kissing him once more, and whispered.

"Perhaps you should."

[alj4890masterlist]

Worth the Wait

(Thomas Hunt x oc*Amanda) in a "what if" version to the RCD/TRR fan fic series A Second Chance

Prologue

Part 1

Part 2

Part 3

[theartoflovingthomashunt]

Love has nothing to do with what you are expecting to get—only with what you are expecting to give—which is everything. ~Katharine Hepburn

✨ Thomas and Alex Hunt at a Red Carpet Premiere ✨ Art by the insanely talented @ascindio / @oh-so-youre-a-nerd

How to caption such a gorgeous artwork? How do I even attempt to put words to this?!! I literally have just been staring at it for the past couple weeks in complete awe. It is stunning and just as incredible as I hoped! Elliott is seriously the best! Go support them if you don't already! I am just so in love with this and them!!! My forever OTP is perfect! I just love them with my entire heart forever and always! 🤍 🤍 🤍 🤍

Alex's dress is inspired by this gorgeous gown by Monica Ivena

[ryp3004]

considering that they are canonically married and quite in love, i don't draw them together very often. they're cute together tho :)

[pansexy-choices-the-sequal]

Super late birthday present for Mrs Alex Hunt!

@lovealexhunt

You know the drill. Tried to finish it but couldn’t cause of school.

I never really played Red Carpet Diaries properly - using diamonds and such - but I remember the frikkin stunning dress MC wears when she was shooting the historical fiction movie with Thomas Hunt so I immediately headcanonned that outside of shooting they fell away from the rest of the crew and danced together.

[kilvalir]

Another edit I did for @storyofmychoices as part of the @choicesfandomappreciation exchange! It's Thomas Hunt and RCD MC Alex on the cover of a very scandalous proposal!

[cadybear420]

Choices Secret Pal July 2024, edits by me

Here's my creation for the Choices Secret Pal event by @choicesfandomappreciation!

For @peonyblossom, I've made some swimsuit edits of their couples! Matty (HSS:CA MC) and Ajay, Sydney (OPH MC) and Ethan, and Jackie (RCD MC) and Thomas! With guidance from this, this, this, and this.

This was so much fun! I love reading about all your headcanons and MCs and their LIs <3 <3 <3 Thank you so much for this opportunity!

[gutsfics]

Thomas Hunt But He's Wearing Dress Pants Instead Of Denim Jeans (As He Should Be), both original flavor & salt n pepper versions

[lovealexhunt]

Happy Holidays to you! I hope you are having a wonderful day!! Thank you for sending me sweet messages, I always appreciate them, so here's a little gift for you <3 I hope I did him justice!

lksdjflkjdf ohmygosh!!! I did not expect this at all!!! LOOK AT HIM!!!!!!!!!!! He's perfect!!!

^^^ actually me right now. Seriously this was so thoughtful and kind and sweet and ohmygosh!!!! THANK YOU!!!! I love this so so much!!!

I hope you holidays were filled with wonderful memories and good times. You deserve all the lovely things! Thank you again! I am blown away by this!!!

[are-they-a-faggot]

THOMAS HUNT - RED CARPET DIARIES

reasoning: those journal entries from hwu were soooooo comphet. also during a flashback scene in rcd where you get to play as him during his underwear modeling days & theres an option to have him flirt with the photographer

submitted by: @gutsfics

[alj4890]

Repeat Performance

(Thomas Hunt x OC) in a Choices Red Carpet Diaries drabble.

With the quote: "Thank god I have no idea what you're talking about." He took a sip of his wine. "When you start making sense I am going to panic."

@hopelessromantic1352 came across this quote a while back and we both thought it screamed our favorite director. Sorry this request took so long to answer my sweet friend 🤗

Masterlist

**************

Golden Globes After-party...

"What can I get for you?" A bartender asked.

Thomas eyed the selection of bottles behind the woman. Not seeing his favorite brand of scotch available, he decided to have a glass of wine.

"Cabernet Sauvignon." He responded.

With glass in hand, he turned around to observe the crowd of the rich and famous, mingling around the pool at the Beverly Hilton. He saw many of the usual faces he'd come to know through his years as director. He saw all the usual actions of flirting, rivalry, friendship, and those finagling to secure the next award winning hit.

Normally, he'd make an appearance at one of these events, then discreetly slip away for a quiet evening at home. This night's event though had something that made him want to stay, or more specifically, someone.

That specific someone was one he had not set eyes on, at least in person, in over a year.

Thomas had nearly faltered when he stepped on stage to present the award for best director and saw her in the audience. Since he'd won the award the year before for The Last Duchess, he was unable to get out of coming to this year's event. After his film swept the award's circuit, Thomas had lost all inspiration for another project.

He'd also become somewhat of a recluse once he left the country he'd filmed in.

Cordonia was a great many things. It had a vast array of landscapes that could be beautifully captured on film, along with a wealth of mansions and castles perfect for period pieces. The permits and such were a studio's dream in how easy and cheaply they were to obtain. The people were welcoming and eager to cultivate the relationship between Hollywood and their country.

It also was the home of the woman he'd had a three month fling.

Had it been a fling?

Thomas grimaced as he thought back. The moment he met Lady Amanda, Duchess of St Orella, he'd been instantly smitten. He decided not only to begin a relationship with her within minutes of meeting, but to also tell her from the beginning that it would only last until he finished filming in Cordonia.

After all, it was nearly impossible to maintain a long distance relationship, much less one spanning different continents. He was usually so busy in both filming and teaching and with her diplomatic schedule, court duties, and maintaining her various estates; finding time for each other would be nearly impossible.

And being a long term bachelor set in his ways, Thomas didn't believe that he would want to put forth the effort to have something lasting.

Or so he'd originally believed...

Amanda's agreement and understanding made it perfect. Neither expected anything other than what they were given in those moments. Nothing was planned beyond what they might like for dinner or which movie to watch. No expectations. No worries. No heartfelt discussions.

Nothing.

Nothing at all for Thomas to concern himself.

And yet...

He fell in love.

It was ridiculous. Here he was, a man who knew his own mind, how his bachelor life should go...and he fell in love with a young woman who was completely wrong for him.

No. Not wrong. Inconvenient.

She fit him perfectly. She listened to his concerns with his film, gave intelligent suggestions, and lavished him with the affection he craved from her. Her quiet disposition meshed with his own.

She was somehow the woman he'd been searching for his entire life.

But...

He kept such thoughts to himself. After all, he'd been the one to set the parameters of their relationship from the beginning. He couldn't very well turn around and demand that she remain his. He was leaving her country. She was leaving shortly thereafter for a tour of Cordonia's allies that would possibly take months to complete.

A real relationship was impossible.

So, he left her. No promises given to keep in touch. Nothing more than a friendly goodbye and a final kiss was exchanged.

He tried to keep busy. He succeeded for a while with editing his film. He traveled with friends. He even sat down to begin work once more, only to find that all inspiration had mysteriously disappeared.

For the first time, Thomas didn't have a plan. He wasn't certain if he would ever make another film. He honestly didn't know what to do with himself.

He also realized that he was lonely.

He found himself doing searches of Amanda to see what she was doing, where she was, whom she might be seeing. His depression grew to see various men escorting her to dinners and events. Her warm smile directed on one of her many escorts cut to the quick. Thomas knew he could have easily been the one receiving such attention.

If only he'd said something...

It didn't matter. What was done was done.

He forced himself to stop thinking about her. He quit conducting the many late night searches. He even avoided international news stories just in case her name was said or her image appeared. In short, he tried to move on.

He was absolutely miserable.

To be dragged away from his home for the award's ceremony took something he couldn't ignore. Many of his friends had taken part in the movies that were nominated for best picture and best actor or actress. He couldn't let them down by refusing to attend. Plus, he would take great pleasure in seeing their hard work be recognized for the great films and acting that were presented.

He should have remembered that The Royal Romance would most likely have its author, Lord Maxwell Beaumont attending. Ryan Summers was up for best actor and Tommy Phelps was nominated for best director. Their table was nearly overflowing with the talent that took part in bringing King Liam's love story to life.

If Maxwell was there, then he would bring the one woman Thomas both wanted to see again and dreaded to at the same time.

Seeing Amanda sitting there beside Maxwell almost made Thomas trip during his walk across the stage. It took all the willpower he had to focus on reading the names of those nominated. His attention darted towards her when Tommy's name was announced as the winner.

Amanda's delight over the win brought a reluctant smile to Thomas's face. He watched her laugh as Maxwell jumped out of his seat to engulf Tommy in a hug. The rest of the table beamed at yet another win for their film.

And then, Thomas stood aside while the director gave his thank you speech. Standing in the shadows, he was able to study the young woman who still had the ability to make his heart race. As if feeling his attention upon her, her eyes flickered over to him. Her happy smile turned tender as she met his steady gaze.

He returned it, wishing he could bridge the gulf between them. He'd give anything, to find a way to speak to her alone.

The music starting pulled him away from such thoughts. He followed the winner off the stage and faced the horde of the press along with other famous people stopping him here and there for a conversation. He wasn't given a moment to try and steal his duchess away.

What would he say to her? He couldn't go to her and hope she'd forgotten the year or so they'd been apart. Could he ask her for another chance?

Shouldn't he try, at least for his own sanity?

It didn't matter. By the time he made it back into the main room, people were already leaving. He saw that Maxwell and Amanda had already left along with Ryan. The others were gathering their things together.

Seth and Jessica were lingering behind with Chris Winters and his wife Shannon.

"There you are!" Jessica exclaimed. "Ryan insisted we make certain you come to the after-party."

Given what he knew about Maxwell Beaumont, he didn't doubt for a second that the fun loving noble would make certain to be there and that he would force Amanda to attend as well.

"Where is it being held?" Thomas asked.

"The Beverly Hilton." Chris responded. "Worked out great for Maxwell. He's staying there."

"I see." Thomas became even more hopeful for a chance encounter.

***************

The Beverly Hilton...

Music drifted through the night air. The crowded ballroom of The Beverly Hilton opened out to the pool area, allowing those who didn't wish to dance a chance to mingle in the cool night air. Intimate seating arrangements were set here and there both around the pool and across the hard, clear pool cover. Fire pits were lit for the ladies wearing gowns that did little to keep them warm. Three fully stocked bars were also set up outside along with buffets of various appetizers.

Thomas escaped outside the moment he encountered the crush of people inside. The loud base from the deejay's music choices mingled with shouts of various conversations from those celebrating. He didn't bother to search the dark room with its flashing lights for the woman he hoped to bump into. It was foolish of him to think he would be able to find her in such a madhouse.

With a glass in hand, he turned his attention to those few who had also escaped.

"Found what you're looking for?" Ryan asked from behind him.

Thomas nearly choked on his sip of wine.

"What?" He asked.

"You look like a man who is desperately searching for a lost treasure." Ryan teased.

A slight smirk formed on his handsome face.

"Shall I help you find said treasure?"

"Thank god I have no idea what you're talking about." Thomas took a sip of his wine. "When you start making sense, I am going to panic."

Ryan chuckled. "Fine, but you do look like you're looking for something."

"I assure you I'm not." Thomas grumbled. "I was merely taking in the party." He patted Ryan on the back. "Congratulations, by the way. Your performance in The Royal Romance deserved to be recognized."

"Thank you." Ryan clinked his glass against Thomas's.

The two fell into a companionable silence.

Thomas coughed. "So...is everyone here celebrating all the wins for The Royal Romance?"

"I think so." Ryan gestured with his glass. "Phelps is over there talking to Rami and Nolan. They're both too polite to walk away while he's gushing about his directorial talents."

He then motioned towards the ballroom. "Seth, Chris, Jess, and Shannon were doing some kind of dance off with Maxwell earlier." He nudged Thomas with a grin. "Probably passed out from exhaustion. That man can dance for hours without breaking a sweat."

Thomas nodded. He was hearing about everyone except the only one he truly cared about.

"And as for your lost treasure," Ryan turned a shocked Thomas towards the right, "she came outside about ten minutes ago."

Thomas could only stare at Amanda. She was sitting off by herself near an abandoned fire pit. The flames lit up her face revealing an expression of deep thought. Her attention was directed on the fire as she sat with her head propped up on her hand.

"How did you know?"

Ryan patted his back in commiseration. "I think after all our years of friendship I deserve some credit for knowing you."

Thomas grimaced. "True."

"Go talk to her. Perhaps she has the ability to pull you out of this slump." Ryan gave him a friendly shove forward. "It can't hurt."

"It most definitely can hurt." Thomas argued. "I'm the one who denied us a future from the beginning." He took a deep breath and slowly released it. "Amanda has every right to treat me with disinterest and disdain."

"She's never appeared to be the type of person to hold a grudge." Ryan argued. "In fact, she complimented you whenever your name came up in conversation."

Thomas whirled around, sloshing half his wine in the process. "What did she say?"

"Just what a talented director you are. Your vision for stories is unparalleled." Ryan ticked off on his fingers. "How you see past things and get to the heart of the matter. How your passion in life is reflected in every scene you shoot."

He shrugged. "The typical compliments someone gives when they're a fan."

Thomas felt his face flush. It wasn't like he hadn't heard similar compliments before. Hearing them come from Amanda though meant more, so much more, than anyone else's.

"If you don't go talk to her, I will." Ryan told him. "After all, I have played the man who is best friends with her. It is my duty to make certain she isn't left alone to fend for herself amongst these wolves of Holly-"

Thomas handed him his glass and quickly walked towards Amanda.

*************

Where is he?

Amanda searched in vain for Thomas the moment she entered the party. She knew he wouldn't be out on the dance floor, yet couldn't easily escape Maxwell. She adored her best friend, but good heavens he could be tenacious at the worst possible times.

She knew there were no feelings or anything Thomas might feel for her, which was why she desperately needed to see him. She needed to see, in person, just how foolish she was to love a man who harboured nothing but a simple fondness for their fling.

She'd spent months longing for him. She picked up the phone, preparing to call and confess her feelings, only to throw it across the room so temptation wouldn't get the better of her. Foolish didn't even begin to scratch the surface of how she felt about herself. How had she fallen so deeply in love with a man who wanted no part of her heart?

She tried to move on. The various men she went to formal court events and such were pleasant, kind, some even highly interesting. Yet, they couldn't possibly begin to touch a heart that recognized another as its owner. The kisses she endured did nothing to stir her desire. The fleeting brush of their hands left her cold.

No one had any effect, but the mere thought of Thomas could make her feel everything.

Seeing him step out on stage tonight had made all her senses light up with recognition. It was as if she was coming back to life after a year of being dormant. Hearing his deep voice once more while her gaze greedily took in his handsome form set her heart racing. Her imagination began to think of what might happen if she could get him alone.

And then, he returned her smile. It was sheer heaven to have his attention solely upon her even if it was for a few seconds. A warm flush infused her body.

I have to speak to him, she thought in that moment. Maybe we could have dinner one night before I leave. Maybe make it a date. Maybe end up back at my hotel and we...

When he left the stage, she dropped her head in her hands.

Maybe I'm a masochist who forgot why she came on this trip!

Amanda sighed as she slipped her shoes off and tucked her feet under her skirt. Having finally found a quiet nook at this after party, she was debating on whether or not to leave it.

Thomas hated parties and told her he usually made an appearance and left before getting dragged into too many conversations.

Why stay here when he's probably already come and gone?

"Mind if I sit down?"

Amanda whipped around so fast towards the voice that she adored that she half slid off her chair.

Thomas reached out to steady her.

Once she was back sitting upright, he sat down beside her.

Amanda hoped he thought her face was red because of the flames and not over her embarrassing herself with her clumsiness once again.

They sat there completely at a loss for words.

"May I get you a drink?" Thomas asked.

He cursed himself for not thinking of any other way to break the ice.

"Yes, please." Amanda grasped on that mundane question like a lifeline. "Anything will do."

Thomas waved a waiter down and gave their order. He then searched for a topic of conversation that could lead towards admitting his feelings.

"Hello." She said.

Her smile was once again tender as she looked at him.

"Forgive me for not greeting you properly when you first came over."

Thomas found himself relaxing. "Hello again."

He allowed his attention to take her in. The low cut of her off the shoulder gown teased his senses. She was still just as lovely if not more so as she was when they were together.

"It's good to see you again." She said.

"It's been too long." He added.

She inwardly grimaced. Amanda wished she could just blurt out what she needed to say to him. Her fear of his rejection made her continue in this pointless small talk.

Thomas clasped his hands and leaned forward. He believed it was now or never to finally tell her all the things he wished he had when he had the chance.

"Amanda, I should tell you that I--"

A small group of party goers came over to sit in the empty chairs near them.

Their laughter and talking left little chance to have a private heartfelt conversation.

He narrowed his eyes on the group when they recognized him. They began to pitch a few ideas they had for his next picture. His irritation grew that they were interrupting his first chance to speak to the woman beside him.

Amanda felt her heart drop. She should have known that she wouldn't be able to easily talk to him. Her hesitation alone would make this difficult. Now that this was literally a party meant to encourage the next year's crop of award winning films, talking to Thomas would be impossible.

She quietly slipped her shoes on to leave. She didn't think she could remain here and listen to scripts being bandied about while her broken heart yearned for his attention.

Standing, she smiled at the group before whispering goodbye to Thomas.

He caught her wrist to halt her leaving.

"Where are you going?" He asked, completely turning his back upon the others around them.

"To my room." She explained. "I think I've had enough excitement for one evening."

Thomas held onto her while he stood up.

"May I escort you?" He asked.

Amanda blinked in surprise. "Of course, but you don't have to." She nodded to those behind him. "I know there are others needing to talk to you."

He couldn't care less about anyone else at this party, much less what people wanted from him. All he wanted was right in front of him.

Tucking her hand within the bend of his arm, he led her out of the crush without another word to anyone.

Amanda kept her mouth shut. Normally, she would insist on not needing an escort. This was the one rare instance where she was actually holding the arm of the one man she wanted.

Neither attempted to have any conversation as they navigated their way to the lobby. Once they reached the elevators, they both relaxed now that they were free of raucous party goers.

"I haven't been to an event that crowded in years." Amanda told him as they waited for the elevator.

Thomas frowned somewhat. He glanced over his shoulder at where the party was being held. He couldn't imagine any sane person being comfortable in that environment for hours on end.

"It's awful." He grumbled, following her into the elevator. "One of the few aspects of Hollywood I despise."

Amanda leaned back against the wall to study him. Thomas was leaning on the opposite wall, hands in his pockets, and his lips in a firm, unforgiving line.

"Then why did you come?" She asked.

He looked up at her. Frown easing, he took a few steps towards her and placed his arm above her head. His eyes darted down briefly to her mouth before meeting her startled gaze.

"I came because I thought you might be here." He answered.

"You did?" She breathed.

He nodded, leaning closer towards her.

The elevator dinged with doors opening to her floor.

Stepping back, Thomas allowed her to lead the way to her room.

Hands slightly trembling, she unlocked her door and opened it. She took a deep breath and asked if he'd like to come in.

"We could finish that drink we started downstairs." Amanda added, a little unnerved having his attention solely upon her once again.

"I'd like that." Thomas followed her inside.

He was finally where he'd hoped to be when he saw her at the awards show. Alone. In her room. No distractions.

He could now test the waters before revealing what had been in his heart for so long.

Amanda waved over towards the sidebar.

"Please, help yourself. If you don't see anything you like, I can call room service."

She excused herself then disappeared into the suite's bedroom.

Locking herself in the bathroom, she took some deep breaths to get her nerves under control.

You can do this, she reminded herself. He's just a man you happen to know every inch of. Breathe and get back out there and enjoy having him near once more.

Perhaps for the last time.

When she returned, she felt a deep sense of panic set in to find the room empty.

Her heart sank over the thought that he'd decided not to stay.

"Join me." He called out from her balcony.

She jumped, twirling to see the balcony door cracked open. Twisting her hands in the skirt of her dress, she forced herself to walk at a normal pace.

Thomas leaned against the railing. He sipped his scotch as he considered seeing just what Amanda would accept flirting and touching wise.

He handed her a drink.

She smiled her thanks, eyes lowering from his.

He settled closer beside her, elbow brushing against hers as they turned their attention to the Los Angeles skyline.

"It's beautiful out here." Amanda murmured.

"Yes, it is." Thomas said, sliding a step closer.

She looked up at him and noticed he was only looking at her.

Blushing, she turned back to the city.

"How have you been?" She managed to ask.

"Awful." He replied, setting his drink down.

Startled by that answer, she looked up at him.

"Why?" Her breath caught when he slid his arm around her waist, pulling her against him.

"Did," her voice trembled, "did something happen?"

"Yes." He lowered his head and placed a kiss on her cheek.

Her eyes closed as he kissed along her jawline.

"What, um what happened?" She managed to ask.

"I left you." He whispered, lips brushing against her ear. "And I didn't tell you I was in love with you."

Her eyes flew open. Her heart raced with not only his touch but hearing the very words she'd once dreamed of hearing from him.

Gripping the lapels of his jacket, she struggled to get her thoughts in order.

"You were in love?" Her breath hitched. "With me?"

He lifted his head. His dark eyes held her shocked hazel. Lips quirking some, he shook his head, no.

Before she had a chance to panic, he quickly reiterated his confession.

"What I meant to say was that I fell in love with you and am still in love." He said softly. "You have been all I've thought about from the moment we said goodbye."

"Thomas, I love you too." She tugged him down and kissed him.

He groaned the moment her tongue brushed against his. Clutching her tight, he showed her just how much he missed her.

They somehow got through the balcony doors and ended up in her bedroom. The only light illuminating the darkness was from the city lights creeping through the sheer panels.

Lips barely left the other's skin as they struggled to remove the clothes hindering their attempts to kiss each part of the one they loved.

Once free of all barriers, the two fell upon the bed. Murmurs of love were gasped as they relearned all the different parts of each other. Thomas paused in the midst, smoothing Amanda's hair out of her face.

"Say it again." He pleaded, breathless from holding himself back.

"I love you." She wrapped her legs around his waist. "I fell in love with you from the moment I met you, Thomas."

His mouth crashed against hers. The moment he heard her moan, he broke away only long enough to tell her all that she meant to him, the life he dreamed of having with her, and the future he yearned for.

He then asked the question he knew would only give him all that and more.

With tears in her eyes, she gave him the answer he hoped to hear from her.

"That's all I want." She kissed him tenderly. "Yes, I'll marry you."

[choicesaugustchallenge]

WELCOME || RULES || PROMPTS || HOST MASTERLIST

In alphabetical order by prompt. Will add more each week.

Beach Date

Lilah Rose - CoP Art by @lilyoffandoms

Only Her (Thomas Hunt x OC) - RCD/HWU Fic by @theartoflovingthomashunt

"Being in love is like a rollercoaster and a stroll on the beach rolled into one."

A Little Jealous (Tobias Carrick x MC) - OPH Fic by @jerzwriter

Eternal Summer

Bryce x Luna - OPH Art (Bryce Lahela x OC) by @lilyoffandoms

Fireworks

When Sparks Fly - OPH Fic by @liaromancewriter

Late Night Talking Inder the Stars

Bonds of Sea and Fire Part 2 - Blades Fic (Tyril x MC) by @missameliep

Mono~poly Chapter 4: Moving On - OPH Fic (Tobias Carrick x MC) by @jerzwriter

Laying on their chest while watching the sunrise

Detention VII.V: A Brush of Magic - TE Fic (Beckett x MC) by @storyofmychoices

Outdoor Movie Night

Classic Cinephiles - OPH Moodboard by @choicesfanaf

Pool Party

Ajay x MC - HSS:CA Art by @mydemonsdrivealimo commissioned by @peonyblossom

Road Trip

Snugglin’ Inn - OPH Fic (Ethan x MC, Bryce x OC, Tobias x MC) by @jerzwriter

Skinning Dipping

Trystan Thorne - CoP Art by @lilyoffandoms

Summer Heat

Something New - WtD Fic (Eli Sipes x MC) by @jerzwriter

Summer Holiday

Summer Getaway - OPH Edit (Sienna Trinh x OC) by @liaromancewriter

Summer Romance

Jun x Emilia - TDG Art (Jun Seong x MC) by @weetlebeetle commissioned by @storyofmychoices

Summer Wedding

I Thee Wed - OPH Edit & Fic (Ethan Ramsey x MC) by @liaromancewriter

Mono~poly Chapter 5: Beautiful Days - OPH Fic (Tobias Carrick x MC)

Turning The Page Chapter 14: Make You Mine - TRR Fic (Liam Rys x MC) by @tessa-liam

Sundress

Lincoln x Vax - ILW Edit/Gif by @kilvalir

The Garden Part - OPH Edit (Tobias Carrick x MC) by @jerzwriter

Sunshine

First Day - OPH Fic & Edit by @liaromancewriter

Dr. Sienna Trinh - OPH Art by @lilyoffandoms

Swimsuit

Luna Auclair - OPH Art by @lilyoffandoms

Multiple Pairings - Multiple Books Edits by @cadybear420

Tanlines

Daenarya x Maiele - Blades Art by @lilyoffandoms

Thunderstorms

Through the Pain - TDG Fic (Jun Seong x MC) by @storyofmychoices

Too Hot To Handle

Angelina: The Girlfriend - TDG Art by @storyofmychoices

Crystal: The Skinfluencer - TDG Art by @storyofmychoices

Farah Sabri - TDG Art by @storyofmychoices

Medhani: The Doctor - TDG Art by @storyofmychoices

Ripley Reese - ID Art by @lilyoffandoms

She’s Hot (Ade) - BB Edit by @aesthetic-aag

[ryp3004]

someone needs to take this dude down a peg I'm tired of him

[storyofmychoices]

I think these can work for all three 😉

Do you have a comfort item? Tell us about it!

Best childhood moment?

Tell us about a memory you hold close to your heart.

Aww yay! Thanks for the ask!

Do you have a comfort item? Tell us about it!

Alex Hunt:

Coffee, coffee always makes her feel better

a charm bracelet she's had most of her live that she still adds to. It's not very expensive or glamorous but it's something she holds dear

photos she and Thomas took on one of their first dates

the "love among the stars" necklace from HWU, that HWU!Alex finds, but also RCD!Alex receives it from Addison who found it.

Bogart 🐾

Olivia Lahela:

a scarf her grandma knitted for her

her toy stethoscope she got as a child

a stuffed penguin Bryce got for her at the aquarium

Daenarya:

the woven bracelet Mal made for her

a worn leather bag she has of her moms

a journal she kept as a child

Best childhood moment?

Alex: Her on stage play in elementary school. She was in second grade and she will never forget how confident, comfortable, and empowered she felt on that stage, even if she only had 2 lines and was supporting the older kids.

Olivia: Playing doctor to all her stuffies and dolls

Daenarya: Daenarya doesn't have many memories of her parents, but she remembers one afternoon, sitting on the porch with her mom, the breeze blowing in their hair as they ate grapes they had just picked (Daenarya's parents were wine makers in my HC)

Tell us about a memory you hold close to your heart. I'll stick to more modern moments since I just did childhood ones

RCD!Alex:

Opening night of The Last Duchess

Marrying Thomas

Adopting Bogart

The birth of the twins

HWU!Alex:

Being accepted to HWU

The masquerade ball

the trip to Catalina

filming Centaurus Lost with Ben (from LoveHacks) (at least in my crossover series)

Olivia:

opening Sunshine Pediatrics of Boston (her own pediatric practice)

the birth of Malia and Makoa

saving the life of a young patient who they weren't sure would make it (heart transplant)

the death of a young patient (cancer)

Daenarya:

Meeting each of her companions and the relationships that developed from there

Opening the orphanage

meeting Rayden for the first time and later, rescuing Lydo

[Asks from this list]

[tveitertotwrites]

Summer 2024 Taglist Cleanup

Since I have added a new MC since my last update and I have some new fics on the way (hopefully soon) it means it's time to update this list.

As of right now the lists I have are:

Perma (for any fics and possibly edits/art)

Open Heart (any fics and possibly edits/art that is related to OH)

Red Carpet Diaries (any fics and possibly edits/art that is related to RCD)

America's Most Eligible any fics and possibly edits/art that is related to AME)

Ethan Ramsey (anything related to Ethan)

Tobias Carrick (anything related to Tobias)

Thomas Hunt (anything related to Thomas)

Derek Taylor (anything related to Derek)

Random Question Time (any posts related to RQT, both for when it comes back and the actual posts)

As of right now these are where the lists stand (as of what I can see from my last update):

Perma: @crazy-loca-blog @driverstveit @rookiemartin @zahrachoices

Open Heart: @coffeeheartaddict2 @jerzwriter @liaromancewriter

Red Carpet Diaries: None

America's Most Eligible: None

Ethan Only: @cariantha @zealouscanonindeer

Tobias Only: None

Thomas Only: None

Derek Only: None

Random Question Time: @cariantha @delmissesryanandcassi @driverstveit @jerzwriter @liaromancewriter @peonierose @zealouscanonindeer

This cleanup will close on July 1st. Unless I hear otherwise, I will assume that people will stay where they are if I haven't heard anything before the deadline.

[choicesficwriterscreations]

CFWC F/AotW - Nov 12-18, 2023

✒️= Fanfic | 📱= Text Fics/Edits | 🎨= Fanart Ⓜ️ = Mature Content 18+ | 🔥 = Explicit/NSFW 18+ 🏳️‍🌈 = LGBTQIA

BLADES OF LIGHT & SHADOW

BLOODBOUND

The Blood Queen & Her King ✒️Ⓜ️| Gaius x Kamilah - @deadcellmate

CRIMES OF PASSION

Come Fly With Me ✒️| Trystan Thorne x F!MC - @reveluving

CoP MC - Cameron Rose 🎨🏳️‍🌈 by @cassie-thorne

Future Days ✒️| Trystan Thorne x F!MC - @moominofthevalley

Nora Rose 🎨🏳️‍🌈 CoP F!MC - @inlocusmads

Past Lives ✒️🏳️‍🌈| Trystan Thorne x F!MC - @inlocusmads

THE ELEMENTALIST

Aster D'Yeew Fanart 🎨by @oh-so-youre-a-nerd

IMMORTAL DESIRES

Cas Harlow x NB!MC Fanart 🎨🏳️‍🌈 by @mydemonsdrivealimo (C: @aria-ashryver)

IT LIVES WITHIN

Kanerva Leinola 🎨🏳️‍🌈 by @/coffeesforchole (IG) for @aallotarenunelma

OPEN HEART

PERFECT MATCH

Arielle Park 🎨| PM F!MC by @/coffeesforchole (IG) for @rosepetals1

RED CARPET DIARIES

Brooklyn Moore 🎨| RCD F!MC by @/coffeesforchole for @tveitertotwrites

Dress Up ✒️| Thomas Hunt x F!MC - @tveitertotwrites

THE ROYAL ROMANCE

Turning the Page (Series) ✒️| Liam Rys x MC - @tessa-liam Chapter 6: Right Here Waiting Ⓜ️

FANDOM SELF-LOVE DAY