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It started with a rumor in the halls, whispered from ear to ear. Friends and enemies alike sharing the newest gossip with no sign of stopping any time soon.
“Did you hear!”
“I can’t believe it!”
“No way!”
“Way! I heard it from…!”
Cater Diamond, walking the halls between classes, kept his ears open, always desperate for the newest juicy gossip. His thumb scrolled through MagiCam, though he barely paid it any mind as he eavesdropped. What he heard, however, made his stomach drop.
“Did you hear Vil and Leona were dating!”
—sSs—
The day passed in a blur or maybe Cater just wasn’t paying attention to anything. All around him, the whispered rumor circled. According to the mill, Leona and Vil had been seen in the gardens that morning. Leona pinning Vil against a tree, their faces so close they could have been kissing if Leona’s mouth hadn’t been seen moving.
“Whispered words between lovers.” was one suggestion.
“Setting up a secret meeting for later.” said another.
Cater didn’t really care either way. Instead, he just focused on the horrible feeling of loss. It was a widely known secret that Cater had a big fat crush on Vil and now he was sure he had lost his chance.
“What chance do I have against Leona? None.” Cater muttered as he sat in the rose maze, just taking a small break for himself.
He knew Riddle would be looking for him soon, but he just needed a moment to gather himself. Shaking his head, he leaned back in his seat and stared at the sky before chuckling and closing his eyes.
“How stupid. You really are a loser, Cay-kun.” Cater muttered.
The wind whistled in agreement.
—sSs—
Vil sat at his vanity and resisted the urge to rub his eyes. Carefully he grabbed a makeup wipe and started to remove his makeup. Behind him, Rook stood at the window, looking outside, but Vil knew he was also staring at him using the window’s reflective surface.
“Are you sure this is a good idea, Beautiful Vil?” Rook asked curiously, holding his chin.
“Rook, we have been over this. If I had any better ideas, I would use them. Seven knows this is just calling for a disaster.” Vil replied.
“I am quite surprised he even agreed.” Rook said.
“You and me both.” Vil mumbled as he finished before reaching for some lotion.
“It seems beneath the both of you.” Rook continued.
Vil sighed deeply and turned around.
“Just say it, Rook. You know I hate when you do this.” Vil demanded, arms crossed.
Rook turned to him.
“This fake dating to change your public image. You are a man of great worth, Vil. Are you sure there is no one you would have tried a real relationship with?” Rook asked.
Vil resisted the urge to grit his teeth before turning back to his vanity.
“Rook, you know as well as I that dating at this point in my life is hopeless. If they don’t want me for fame, it’s for money. If not money, then it’s for ego. I do not have time to search for someone who doesn’t have any ulterior motives.” Vil replied.
“Are you sure?” Rook asked.
“What does that mean?” Vil demanded.
“We both know there is someone who…” Vil cut him off.
“Rook, drop it. I have told you before, I refuse to even consider him.” Vil said with a growl.
“Very well.” Rook said shortly.
Sighing again, Vil returned to his routine and they sat in silence.
—sSs—
“Fake dating?” Ruggie asked, eyebrows in his hairline.
“Yeah, it was all Vil’s idea. Something about “fixing his image” or whatever. I really wasn’t paying attention.” Leona said with a yawn, laying on his bed.
“Uh huh and what do you get out of it?” Ruggie asked as he gathered Leona’s dirty clothes.
“Do I need to get anything out of it?” Leona demanded.
“Of course. You don’t put energy into things like this unless you are getting something.” Ruggie said.
“I get to piss off a few people.” Leona said with a grin.
“Ah, there it is. So what do you have to do?” Ruggie asked.
“Nothing much. Just hang out with him, look a little lovey dovey in public and then there will be a quiet break up when his manager confirms it worked.” Leona replied.
“Ah…” Ruggie went silent and Leona raised an eyebrow.
“You seem pissy. What’s the deal?” Leona asked.
Ruggie sighed and straightened up.
“It’s just… kind of stupid in my opinion. You know Vil is just using you. You’ll be the brutish beast to his beauty.” Ruggie said, ears twitching.
“And the public will eat it up. Vil will be dating a “bad boy” and that will make him look better in comparison.” Leona shrugged.
Ruggie just rolled his eyes. Sitting up, Leona stared at him.
“I’m confused as to why you are so annoyed by this. It’s not like Vil is taking your place.” Leona stated.
Ruggie shot him a look.
“This is just going to make more work for me. Now, instead of just getting you food, I’m going to have to bring him some too. I hope you know I’m increasing my fees.” Ruggie stated.
“Do what you want.” Leona replied as he laid back down.
Seeing the conversation was over, Ruggie shook his head and gathered the last of the clothes before leaving. In the hall, Ruggie pulled out his phone and flipped it open.
“Yeah, we got a problem.” Ruggie said.
—sSs—
“You can’t be serious.” Lilia said annoyed, arms crossed.
“That’s what Leona told me.” Ruggie replied.
Lilia sighed and rubbed the bridge of his nose. Kalim pointed, looking rather put out.
“This throws the whole plan into wack.” Kalim muttered sadly.
“Unfortunately.” Ruggie agreed, rubbing the back of his neck.
“We can’t let this get in the way.” Lilia said.
“Beautiful Vil is quite set on this path. I fear he will not be deterred.” Rook stated.
“But but! Cater really cares about Vil! If Vil would just give him a chance…” Kalim trailed off.
Lilia coughed into his hand and crossed his arms.
“We will not allow this to stop us. The plan stays the same, we just need Leona to get bored or annoyed and step out of the way.” Lilia commanded.
The other three nodded and Lilia grinned.
“Plan Purple Rose is still a go!” Lilia said.
“That’s still such a stupid name.” Ruggie muttered.
—sSs—
The sabotage started the next day. Leona and Vil were seen walking in the hall together, Leona’s arm around Vil’s shoulders and Vil’s books tucked under his other arm. Vil was leaning against him, eyes bright, but his focus was straight ahead. Cater heard them coming before he saw them, saw the way the whispers stopped and people made sure to step out of the way for the hot new couple. Staring, Cater could only see two perfect, beautiful people together, clearly in love. Reaching up, he twirled a piece of hair before gathering his courage.
“Yo! Vil! Leona! Congrats on being the hot new couple on campus.” Cater said, sliding in to walk with them.
Vil barely gave him a look while Leona glanced his way and raised an eyebrow.
“What’s it to you?” Leona asked.
“Eh? Aw come on, Leona! You know me, I’m nosey! I just want to know! Like the rumor mill is #onfire right now about you guys. I just want the inside dets.” Cater said with a smile and a wink.
“There are no “dets” for a vulture like you to know.” Vil said coldly.
Cater’s smile dropped a bit before it was back in full force.
“Aw man, Vil, you always know how to hit a guy where it hurts.” Cater said with a whine.
Leona eyed the two of them before pulling Vil closer.
“Well, we decided to give it a try. Life is short right?” Leona said with a smirk.
Cater blinked, startled that Leona actually was giving him some information, before he eagerly leaned in.
“So who approached who?” Cater asked.
“Well, Princess here approached me first and well, what can I say? I like a direct approach.” Leona replied.
“Leona. Don’t encourage him.” Vil huffed, arms crossed.
“Aw, come on, Vil.” Leona squeezed him a bit and Vil sighed.
“So where’s your first date going to be?” Cater asked.
“None of your business.” Vil replied hotly.
“We haven’t decided yet, so keep an eye out and you might just see us.” Leona chuckled.
By this point, they had made it to Vil’s classroom. With a sigh, Vil grabbed his books and kissed Leona on the cheek.
“See you later?” Vil asked.
“Of course, Princess.” Leona said with a smirk.
Vil eyed Cater before turning and walking into his class. Cater eyed Leona, who shot him a smirk before he turned and walked away. Swallowing, Cater stepped inside the classroom as well.
—sSs—
Vil sat in the front of the class, notebook at the ready. As he expected, he could feel the stares of everyone in the class. Used to it and ready to ignore it, he made sure to check his phone really quick. He mentally smirked seeing his name topping the trending list. As he stared, he also noticed that his DMs were going haywire. Thankful he had a whole team to review those for him, so he ignored them as he turned his phone off and settled in for class.
—sSs—
Leona eyed his phone with annoyance. He had several missed messages from his brother, his sister-in-law and a few random people who had heard about his latest fling. If he was going to be honest, he was a little startled that his brother of all people was asking him about it, but then again, it was a shock Farena was reaching out to him at all. Their last conversation had ended poorly, Farena wanting to talk to him about possible marriage proposals and Leona telling him to fuck off. Leona wasn’t going to be some kind of bargaining chip. Farena had tried to make him see reason, but it had ended in Leona throwing his phone against the wall, breaking it.
Even still, Farena had persisted, sending him letters from candidates and asking him to please give it a chance. Leona had ignored him. In a sense, Vil’s proposal couldn't come at a better time. His name held enough weight that Farena would have to back off for a bit and that would give Leona time to figure something out. Leona rolled his eyes and dropped his phone onto his stomach as he laid back in the sun, closing his eyes as he did so.
“Ahhh, Roi De Lions! There you are.” Leona scowled and peeked one eye open.
“What do you want?” Leona demanded.
Rook stood nearby, smart enough not to get too close while Leona was relaxing. Rook was smiling at him, but his eyes were cold.
“Ah, there is no reason to growl, Roi De Lions! I simply wish to talk.” Rook stated.
“If it’s about Vil and I, you can shove your opinions where the sun don’t shine. I’m sure Vil warned you about this, so don’t bother me with your complaints.” Leona stated.
“He did and while I voiced my concerns, Beloved Vil is set on his path.” Rook stated, his smile dropping.
Leona smirked, his tail waving lazily.
“Well, if that’s the case, I don’t see why you are bothering me. I sure as hell can’t make him change his mind.” Leona replied.
Rook hummed.
“I am sure you know as well as I that Monsieur MagiCam has been in love with Beloved Vil for a long time.” Rook stated.
“Yeah? And?” Leona asked, boredly.
“A small group of us were hoping to help the two get together. You have, in a sense, thrown a wrench into that plan.” Rook explained.
“Look.” Leona cut in.
“If Princess wanted to be with that herbivore, he would be. So forcing them together is just calling for a disaster.” Leona explained.
Rook hummed.
“You believe Vil has no feelings for him whatsoever?” Rook asked.
“I don’t know shit about how Vil sees that guy or what he feels. I just know that Princess isn’t going to let you go behind his back… again.” Leona replied.
“Again?” Rook asked, confused.
Leona smirked and leaned on his hand.
“Everyone knows about SDC, Rook. About how you voted against your own team. About how you screwed Vil, your own housewarden, over in the worst possible way.” Leona stated.
Rook’s frown got deeper.
“So if I were you, I’d leave fucking with Vil’s love life alone. Unless you want to be kicked out of Pomefiore?” Leona chuckled before he laid back down.
Sensing he was defeated, Rook turned and left, leaving a very pleased lion behind.
—sSs—
Leona was outside his class when it was done, much to Vil’s pleasure and surprise. He, admittedly, had expected to have to drag Leona from place to place, but it seemed Leona was taking this just a bit more seriously than Vil predicted. Walking to his next class, Leona spoke.
“Rook came to see me.” Leona said lowly.
Vil groaned, but leaned into Leona to speak without being overheard.
“I told him to leave it alone.” Vil hissed.
“Yeah, well, he seemed to think we didn’t belong together.” Leona stated.
“Did he say why?” Vil asked.
“Nope and I didn’t care enough to ask.” Leona shrugged.
“This is ridiculous. I don’t understand his problem with this.” Vil growled.
“Who knows.” Leona replied.
“I will speak to him again. If he approaches you afterwards, you are more than welcome to rip into him.” Vil said.
“Yo, Leona-san!” the two turned to see Ruggie coming towards them.
“What?” Leona demanded.
“Sorry, but we got a fight and it’s nasty. Need your help breaking it up.” Ruggie said.
Leona sighed, his tail twitching with aggravation.
“I’m coming.” Leona turned to Vil.
“Talk to you later, babe.” Leona walked off and Ruggie followed.
Vil’s eyes narrowed, but just shook his head and continued on to his next class. Much to his surprise, Cater was standing outside, talking to Kalim when he got there.
“You two are blocking the door.” Vil said with annoyance.
“Eh? Oh, sorry Vil.” Cater took a step back, letting him through.
Vil rolled his eyes and walked inside. His next class passed without issue.
—sSs—
“Now get to class or I will skin the both of you!” Leona snapped, sending the two second years from his own dorm running.
Scowling, he turned to Ruggie.
“Remind me to force those two to run laps. Since they have enough energy to fight in the halls, they have enough energy to do more at our Spelldrive training.” Leona demanded.
“Will do.” Ruggie said, hands behind his head.
They started walking and Leona eyed people in the halls, who whispered as he passed.
“Looks like the rumor mill is running full force.” Leona stated.
“As always. These brats gossip worse than the old women in my village.” Ruggie replied.
“My brother already heard about it.” Leona scowled.
“Damn, that was fast.” Ruggie raised an eyebrow.
“Probably because Vil’s name is trending. Whatever. Hopefully, this will get him off my back for a little while.” Leona said, rubbing the back of his neck with a yawn.
As they came to the cafeteria, Leona sat down and Ruggie got him food. Almost falling asleep, Leona’s attention was caught when Lilia appeared across from him.
“What do you want?” Leona demanded.
“Can’t I just say hello to my few classmates?” Lilia asked sweetly.
“Listen, between you and Rook, I am starting to think you all are against me or something.” Leona growled.
“Not against you per se.” Lilia replied.
Leona scowled as Ruggie sat down and handed him some food.
“This is about Vil.” Leona demanded.
“In a sense, yes.” Lilia agreed.
“Look, I am not sure what the fuck you all think you are doing, but if Vil wanted to date that red haired loser, he would.” Leona stated.
Lilia frowned.
“You think Cater is a loser?” Lilia asked.
Leona took a bite of his food.
“The guy might as well be one of those white roses his dorm paints, completely wrong and out of his depth.” Leona replied.
“Oh? That is quite laughable coming from you.” Lilia said coldly.
“I’m at least a housewarden. Can’t say that about him.” Leona said.
Lilia’s eyes narrowed.
“I see. Very well then.” Lilia disappeared and Leona rolled his eyes.
“I’m getting sick of people second guessing me.” Leona muttered.
—sSs—
Leona was waiting after his class again, which was still strange, but Vil rolled with it. His phone was still blowing up, people wanting to know more about his new relationship. He hoped he could set up an interview or at least a photoshoot sometime this week.
“So where do you want to go for the first date?” Leona asked.
Vil blinked, startled.
“I hadn’t considered that yet, but you are right. We should probably figure that out.” Vil admitted.
“There’s a few places on the mainland. We’d be best off there.” Leona said.
“Hm, admittedly it’s been a while since I have gone there.” Vil stated, rubbing his chin.
“Same here.” Leona grumbled.
The two found themselves at an impasse. It was at that moment that Cater walked by. His face was buried in his phone and he was heading for the portal.
“Yo, herbivore.” Leona called.
Cater’s head popped up.
“Huh?” Cater asked.
“You know any good places to eat on the mainland?” Leona asked.
“Leona!” Vil hissed.
Cater blinked at them.
“Well, I know a few. What are you looking for?” Cater asked.
“Some place healthy.” Vil stated.
“I want steak.” Leona said.
Cater blinked, but nodded.
“A place where everything is fresh.” Vil said.
“Nothing too fancy.” Leona stated.
Cater’s thumbs were typing rapidly.
“Some place classy.” Vil said.
“But private.” Leona cut in.
Vil huffed.
“Oh, I got one.” Cater turned the phone around.
“It’s called Godmother’s. Right on the mainland. Really nice place, fancy but not too much and tots got a good menu.” Cater explained.
“Hm, it looks good.” Vil said as he scanned the menu.
“Fine with me.” Leona said.
“Cool, they are reservations only. So I’d call beforehand. Hope you enjoy!” Cater said with a smile.
“Thank you. That was rather helpful.” Vil said.
Cater nodded before walking off. Leona raised an eyebrow at Vil.
“Was that a compliment?” Leona asked.
“Oh hush you. Let’s call that restaurant.” Vil muttered.
—sSs—
Their first date went pretty well, if Vil is going to be honest. Leona was a perfect gentleman, well about as much as he wanted to be Vil supposed and he thought maybe they could do this. Fool the world into thinking they were in love. Now, if only he could get Leona to stop being so aggravating!
“Why can’t you do this!” Vil snapped.
“I told you already, didn’t I? I’m not a show piece, I’m a Prince. If you want me to go to some fancy dinner, you have to make it worth my while.” Leona replied boredly
“Ugh! You are driving me up a wall, Leona! I can’t do everything myself!” Vil snapped.
Leona scowled and crossed his arms.
“Yeah, well, it’s your image on the line, Vil, not mine. So I guess the work falls on you.” Leona replied.
Vil sighed and rubbed his forehead.
“I have way too much on my plate to plan out everything, Leona. I need some help.” Vil stated.
“I could ask Ruggie, but you know he’s going to set us up in the worst places.” Leona replied.
“That’s not going to work. We need someone who knows all the best places to go.” Vil said.
“Someone who won’t charge out the ass for their help.” Leona agreed.
“Someone who knows paparazzi and how they work.” Vil continued.
“And someone we can get to easily.” Leona muttered.
The two looked at each other.
—sSs—
“Ehhhhh? You want my help?” Cater asked, dropping his phone on the table.
Vil and Leona sat across from him at the library table. Cater’s eyes darted between them nervously.
“Listen, Vil and I are busy people and dating can be a lot of work.” Leona said.
“So what, you want me to like plan everything?” Cater asked.
“Essentially yes. You have a… nose for trends that I have no time to keep up with. So if you help us, we will help you, understand?” Vil demanded, arms crossed.
Cater twirled his hair, staring at them in confusion before nodding.
“Ok.” Cater agreed.
Leona and Vil both blinked.
“What?” Vil said.
“Really?” Leona said at the same time.
“I mean, sure.” Cater shrugged.
“I expected a bigger struggle than this. What do you get out of it?” Vil demanded.
Cater shot him a smile.
“How about a few pictures and a private interview? Something I can put on my MagiCam?” Cater asked.
Leona hummed as Vil rubbed his chin.
“Fine. It’s a deal.” Vil said with a nod.
“Great! Alright, let me get some ideas from you both and I’ll #workmymagic!” Cater said with a wink.
“Like what?” Leona asked.
“Well, your first date you went to Grandmother’s, right? What did you guys get? What did you wear?” Cater asked.
After giving him the full details, Cater asked a few more questions like how public they wanted to be and if there was a limit on what they were willing to spend.
“Alright! Give me a day or two and I’ll set up your next date!” Cater said.
“It better be good, Cater. Consider this your one chance.” Vil said before the two of them got up and left.
Cater watched them go before he nodded.
“One chance. Got it.” Cater muttered.
—sSs—
Two days later, between classes, Cater handed off an envelope with a wink and an address on the front.
“Keep that closed until you get to this address and hand it to the woman at the first desk. Just let me know if you like it.” Cater said before walking off.
Vil and Leona raised an eyebrow.
“Are we going to do what he says?” Leona asked.
“Why not. It’s not like it can be awful.” Vil replied.
—sSs—
That Saturday, Leona and Vil rolled up to a very fancy winery on the Mainland. Vil hummed as he looked around.
“At least it’s fancy.” Leona muttered.
As they entered the winery, a woman at the front desk spoke without looking up.
“Name?” she asked.
Vil raised an eyebrow.
“I have a letter here.” Vil said handing it off.
She glanced up at him with a raised eyebrow before taking it. Ripping it open with a sharp nail, she read the contents quickly before straightening up.
“Ah, I see. Please give me, but a moment.” she said before darting into a room off to her left.
“I swear to Sevens, if Cater screwed us.” Vil hissed.
From that room, the hostess came back followed by a tall black haired woman in a dark vest, black shirt and pants. Her hair was up in a complex updo with a single red diamond hanging down.
“Mr. Schonheit, Mr. Kingscholar. An honor and a pleasure. My name is Dorothea and I will be your personal chef and sommelier for today. Please follow me.” she said briskly before turning on her heel.
“Damn.” Leona muttered.
“This should be interesting at least.” Vil replied.
They followed her to the back of the winery and then up a flight of steps to a very private room that overlooked the winery. There was even a small kitchen already set up next to a table and two chairs.
“Please, have a seat and we will get started.” Dorothea said calmly.
The two sat and she immediately began. Between her knowledge on fine wine and her knowledge on the course before them, Vil was highly impressed. As the first course finished, Dorothea waved her hand and the dishes were quick to disappear.
“That was wonderful. Thank you.” Vil said with a smile.
“Yeah.” Leona agreed, sitting back in his seat.
“I am pleased to hear it. I hope I continue to provide excellent service and I hope you will pass your praise onto Catie as well.” Dorothea said refilling Vil’s glass.
“I’m sorry… Catie?” Vil asked, confused.
“My brother, Cater Diamond. He goes to school with you, does he not?” Dorothea stated.
Vil choked on his next sip.
“Cater is your brother?” Leona asked.
“Oh yes. My younger brother actually. I was quite startled when he reached out to me the other day, but how could I say no? Shall we begin round two?” Dorothea asked.
—sSs—
Several hours later, Vil and Leona exited the room, pleasantly full and truly impressed. After saying their goodbyes to Dorothea, they headed for the door.
“How was your experience?” the hostess asked sweetly.
“Very good. Dorothea truly knows her stuff.” Vil said.
“I would hope so. She’s a world renown sommelier.” the hostess said with a giggle.
“Damn, that so?” Leona asked.
“Oh yes. Her waitlist is booked solid for the next five years. I was quite startled when she told me to schedule you both for today, but insisted it had to happen. You must have someone on the inside.” the hostess replied.
Walking out to the car, Vil’s brain spun.
“Five years? Holy shit.” Leona said as they got in.
“Yes. But I can see why.” Vil admitted.
“Still a guy like that has connections like this? Kind of wild.” Leona stated.
“That it is.” Vil muttered.
—sSs—
“Soooo? How’d it go?” Cater asked that Monday.
“It went well. Thank you.” Vil replied.
Cater grinned with delight.
“Yeah, Thea is really amazing.” Cater said proudly.
“So congrats, you passed.” Leona said with a smirk.
Cater’s eyes were bright.
“Nice! So what’s next? Another date? A ball? What are you guys looking for?” Cater asked.
“Cater, let’s not get ahead of ourselves. This is a relationship, not a sprint.” Vil said simply.
“Relax, Princess. Let’s see what else he can do. What’s next, Red?” Leona asked.
“Leona.” Vil sighed.
“Well, let’s see. There is a festival next weekend in Queendom. How’s that sound?” Cater asked, scrolling on his phone.
“Hm, that could work. I’ve been to that festival before.” Vil said, rubbing his chin.
“Great! Just leave it to me!” Cater said saluting.
“Sounds like a plan. Alright, I’m tired. Later.” Leona pecked Vil on the cheek and walked off.
“I have a dorm meeting. Send that information to me as soon as you have it.” Vil said, glancing at his phone.
“Will do!” Cater replied.
Vil walked off and Cater watched him go with a soft, sad smile before he walked away.
—sSs—
“This is bad.” Ruggie muttered.
Kalim whined as Lilia frowned and Rook sighed. They pulled back from peeking around the corner.
“So Cater is helping them now? I’m confused.” Ruggie admitted, scratching his head.
“This is certainly a predicament.” Rook said.
“I don’t get it! Why is Cater helping them!” Kalim whined.
“I have to wonder if he knows.” Lilia said, rubbing his chin.
“Should we tell him?” Rook asked.
“No, for now, let us watch and see what happens.” Lilia replied.
Kalim frowned and looked back at his friend with worry.
—sSs—
The festival was as bright and as crowded as Vil had worried about. Walking down the street, he kept his hat low and his glasses on. Leona was wearing a pair of matching glasses and a baseball hat to cover his ears. Watching the street full of vendors, Vil sighed and looked at his phone.
“It’s five past two. Where are we standing here again?” Vil grumbled.
“Red told us to meet someone here.” Leona replied.
“Hi there!” a cheery voice called.
The two turned to find a dark haired young woman coming towards them, waving.
“Hello.” Vil said politely.
“You must be Vil and Leona! Omg omg omg! Catie told me alllll about you two! He was right, you both are smokin’ hawt!” she said loudly and quickly.
Leona reached out and covered her mouth to get her to stop talking.
“Lower your voice, please. While we do want to be spotted, it’s supposed to look natural.” Vil explained.
“Catie huh? Another sister?” Leona asked.
She straightened up and shot him a wink.
“That’s me! Sister number 2! Aurelie!” she said sweetly.
“A pleasure.” Vil said.
“So what’s the plan?” Leona asked.
“Just follow me! I’ll be your little tour guide today!” Aurelie turned on her heel and the back of her hair was braided into the shape of a diamond.
The two looked at each other before following her. It was hard not to since she basically pushed her way through the crowd. Getting to the first location, Vil lowered his glasses slightly.
“Wait. Wait, is this?” Vil demanded.
“That’s right! The Queen of Heart’s very famous Rose Garden!” Aurelie said.
Leona whistled in surprise.
“Well damn. Farena tried to take his wife here once. He couldn’t get in.” Leona replied.
“My father tried for YEARS to get in here!” Vil said in awe.
“That’s right, so let’s get going!” Aurelie said as he marched inside.
Almost immediately, they were able to walk right past the long ass line to get in, let under the red rope at the front and Aurelie began to give a very long, fascinating lecture on Roses and flower care in general before stopping at a small table for two.
“Now we have some of the Queen’s famous rose tea!” Aurelie said with delight.
“And cookies?” Leona said, grabbing a rose shaped cookie from the tray.
“That’s right!” Aurelie replied.
After their tea and a shorter tour, Aurelie led them back outside.
“Ok, second location! Follow me~” Aurelie led them down a twisted, windy road before stopping at a tower shaped like a teapot pouring tea into a cup.
“Hold on. Is this the Hatter’s Place?” Leona asked.
“That’s right! The Queendom’s finest brewery!” Aurelie replied.
“Damn, I love this place.” Leona muttered.
“Really?” Vil asked.
“Yeah. Used to go here all the time when Farena and I would stop into Queendom.” Leona admitted.
“Wonderful! Let’s go!” Aurelie bounced her way inside.
Getting into the elevator, they shot all the way to the top. Coming out on the top floor, they looked around and could see the whole queendom.
“Damn, never get tired of this view.” Leona said, hands in his pockets, tail curling with delight as he grinned and looked down.
Vil was startled to see how happy Leona was. He walked over and looked around. It was a glorious view. He had been here before, but he had been to so many places that sometimes he forgot.
“Do you guys need a minute?” Aurelie asked.
“Nope. Let’s get some beer.” Leona said as he held out his hand and Vil took it with a smile.
“Sounds good to me.” Vil replied.
—sSs—
“Bye guys! Have a good night!” Aurelie waved furiously as Leona and Vil got into their car to return home.
“That was rather enjoyable.” Vil said, taking his glasses off.
“Yeah.” Leona muttered, leaning back with his eyes closed.
“Between the Rose Garden, the brewery, the restaurant afterwards, I can honestly say this day was amazing.” Vil admitted.
“Red really knows how to show someone the town.” Leona replied.
“Aurelie. I looked her up at one point. She owns her own touring company. She does exclusive tours around Queendom, Scalding Sands and Port O’Bliss. I looked on her company page and she’s done tours for some of the most important families in Twisted Wonderland. I even saw Kalim and Jamil in one photo with what looks like the Asim family.” Vil explained.
“So he has two really powerful sisters. Strange he doesn’t make a bigger deal about it.” Leona said.
Vil hummed as he looked out the window.
—sSs—
“So how was it?” Cater asked the next day.
“Your sister was a marvelous tour guide.” Vil said.
“Yeah, she really knew her shit.” Leona agreed.
“Great! Yeah, Aura is tots awesome and she knows all the best places to go! I knew she would show off a bit.” Cater laughed.
“Cater, I have to ask; you have two very important sisters, how come I never see them on your MagiCam?” Vil asked.
“Yeah, that would be easy for you.” Leona stated.
Cater chuckled nervously and rubbed the back of his neck.
“Well, to be honest, I didn’t want to grow my platform off their’s. Thea doesn’t really do social media and Aura is always on the move. So, yeah.” Cater finished.
Vil blinked, startled. He had expected Cater to say the girls turned him down or told him to buzz off, but he was startled to know Cater did it himself. He could feel Leona’s stare on his face, but ignored it.
“Well, you have passed with flying colors.” Vil stated.
“Really! That’s #awesome!” Cater said with delight.
“So how do you want to do this?” Leona asked.
“Alright, how about this, one photo per date. The interview we can work up to.” Vil stated, arms crossed.
“Works for me. Let’s get the first one now.” Cater agreed.
“Very well.” Vil muttered.
One quick selfie later and Cater was shooting them a wink.
“Another date coming right up!” Cater said.
“If you keep up with the good work, we might even promote you.” Leona snickered.
Vil just rolled his eyes.
—sSs—
“Your name is trending.” Rook said as Vil sat on his bed, staring at his phone.
The pictures from the festival were going absolutely viral. He had to admit, the photographers Cater hired had gotten some amazing shots of them.
“My manager is already saying this is a success. I am getting better roles already.” Vil said as he put his phone down.
“And Roi De Lions?” Rook asked.
“Farena is leaving him alone for now.” Vil replied as he took his hair down.
“And what of Monsieur MagiCam?” Rook asked.
“What about him?” Vil asked confused.
“Does he know?” Rook asked.
“Does it matter? He’s only doing this for his MagiCam, Rook. He doesn’t care one way or another.” Vil said as he got up.
“Beautiful Vil, are you sure about this?” Rook demanded.
Vil didn’t answer, he entered his bathroom and closed the door behind him.
—sSs—
“Cater, why are you doing this?” Lilia asked, appearing out of no where.
Cater jumped a bit, startled.
“Huh? Lilia, what are you doing here?” Cater asked, sitting up.
Cater had been chilling in the Rose Maze, trying to find the next place to send Vil and Leona. He had a few ideas, but none of them seemed good enough. It was frustrating. He had to keep on top of it.
“Helping them, Cater. Why are you helping them?” Lilia asked as he sat next to cater, taking note of the dark circles under his eyes.
“They asked me for help, Lilia. I want to help.” Cater replied, going back to his phone.
“But do they realize how hard you are working?” Lilia asked.
“Lilia, drop it. It’s working out for everyone right now. I mean, look!” Cater showed his phone.
“My MagiCam is doing crazy numbers right now!” Cater said with a smile.
“Cater, stop.” Lilia demanded, lowering the phone.
“We both know you don’t want those pictures for MagiCam.” Lilia said.
Cater’s smile died as he pulled away. He stared at the photo with sorrow.
“I know.” he said sadly.
“But… Vil won’t even look at me most days! At least now, he talks to me!” Cater said desperately.
“Cater… this isn’t good for you.” Lilia whispered.
“Lilia, stop!” Cater got up.
“Cater.” Lilia said sadly.
“Just drop it ok?” Cater asked.
“Very well.” Lilia disappeared.
—sSs—
Cater continued to prove himself with the next several dates. Sometimes it would simply be a romantic setting at a fancy restaurant. Other times, they would take a sunset cruise, a tour of a famous landmark or even, just a movie (it was strange for Vil to be on this side of the movie going process).
In return, Cater got several more photos, making his MagiCam blow up. His numbers were skyrocketing, but Cater found no joy in it. The comments were filled with people talking about Leona and Vil, how they were perfect together, how in love they were. It hurt to read, but Cater just kept on going.
Finally, Vil agreed to an interview. Cater was over the moon and set up everything in their Pop Culture room. As he scrambled to get everything together, Vil and Leona sat watching.
“Are you almost ready?” Vil asked, annoyed.
“Almost! Just one more minute!” Cater said as three clones ran past.
Vil sighed deeply as Leona leaned against the wall. A loud beep made Vil look down.
“Sorry, this is my manager. Hold on.” Vil said as he got up.
Waking outside, he spoke briefly to his manager. When he came back in, he was smirking.
“Good news?” Leona asked.
“Excellent. My manager just confirmed a new role for me this summer. Looks like this dating thing worked.” Vil stated.
“That so?” Leona asked.
“Yes, so I’m ready when you are.” Vil replied.
“Ready for what?” Cater asked, curiously.
“Ready to break off this thing.” Leona said.
Cater froze.
“What? Why?” Cater asked confused.
The two of them looked at him and then each other.
“Cater… you do realize we were faking this, right?” Vil asked, arms crossed.
“Faking?” Cater muttered.
“Yeah. It was Princess’ idea. I just went along for the ride.” Leona said.
“Oh.” Cater mumbled before he gave a shaky smile.
“I guess you don’t want to do the interview anymore, huh?” Cater asked.
“I don’t see a point to it anymore.” Vil replied with a shrug.
Cater looked down, swallowing hard before he nodded.
“Right, right of course.” Cater replied.
The clones disappeared with a pop. Cater got up and smiled at them.
“Well, it was fun while it lasted, right? Good luck with your film, Vil. Leona.” Cater turned and walked out, leaving the two behind.
“Damn, and I thought I knew what cold hearted meant.” Lilia’s voice said as he appeared.
“Lilia, what now?” Vil demanded.
“You used him. You both did. How heartless.” Lilia stated coldly.
“Come off it, Lilia, he used us too. He was giddy about those numbers.” Leona said.
“No, you come off it, Leona! Cater was killing himself to get those dates for you and you completely ignored how hard he worked! Do you have any idea how hard he worked?” Lilia hissed.
Vil felt a little bad, but also stood his ground.
“Cater agreed to do it.” Vil said calmly.
“Cater would agree to walk on hot coals for you barefoot, Vil!” Lilia snapped.
“That is not my fault or my problem!” Vil snapped back.
Lilia threw his hands in the air.
“Children these days! You didn’t even bother to tell him it was fake? I’m sorry, if my memory is correct, wasn’t you who always got on his case for being fake?” Lilia demanded.
Vil grit his teeth before looking at Leona.
“Do you have anything to say?” Vil demanded.
“Don’t look at me, Princess. I was just along for the ride.” Leona replied.
“Oh for the love of! Fine! Fine, I will apologize to Cater. Will that get you to leave me alone?” Vil demanded.
Lilia just crossed his arms and Vil sighed before walking off.
Finding Cater wasn’t hard. He found the young man standing at the wishing well, looking down into the water.
“Cater… can we talk?” Vil asked.
“Vil… yeah.” Cater wiped his eyes and Vil did feel a bit bad.
“I am sorry… for not telling you.” Vil said slowly.
“It’s ok. I shouldn’t have gotten so upset. That was tots my bad.” Cater said with a shaky smile.
Vil sighed deeply.
“Look, let me make it up to you. This time, I’ll set up the date.” Vil said gently.
“Are you sure?” Cater asked, shocked.
“It will make me feel better. So this Sunday?” Vil asked, hand out.
Cater placed his hand in Vil’s.
“Sounds like a date.”