Loreliee

A Perfect Match I Can Be Anyone and Loreliee

Adrian

Adrian chocked on his whiskey, after he had read Azariah's mail. "Anything amiss, my lord?" Lord Douglas eyed him apprehensively, attempting to put an arm around his shoulder. He was not only the the oldest lord in the room, but also the only Scotsman. The others had arrived from all over England and Wales, using the 'mens night out' as an excuse to escape their dull lifes at home. The meeting today had the sole reason to entertain the lordships and celebrate being part of the inner circle.
"I have never felt better." Adrian forced a smile on his lips and stepped aside, leaving Douglas to grasp at nothing.
As if nothing had happened, the Earl added: "How is your dear sister Magdalene? Is she still pursuing horseback riding in France?" Instead of riding other things. Lord Douglas coughed slightly, still recovering from his faux pas. "Well, my sister, my sister Magdalene..." And then he started to tell him about his sister's new married life in Paris, how happy she was and what her future endeavours were. Adrian stopped listening as soon as Douglas mentioned the word 'marriage' and rather concentrated on the words Azariah had just sent him.

certain it is a very lovely thing to see, set up exactly the way people expect, and no different than photographs available online. Truthfully, I have no desire to see the place, nor to throw support in anyway to what has historically been a very oppressive regime
Oppressive regime? The Queen? Azariah would be part of the oppressive regime mentioned. And for better or worse, she would have to deal with it. As controversial as his whole life might be, Aidan had never known anything else and would definitely not wait for an American to revolutionise his world and mindset. He was dead set on showing her the perks of being noble. Never in a thousand years would he allow her to spark criticism among his servants. They would marry, as refusal was off the table, and then silently file for divorce, just like she had suggested. No changes required, his affluence secured.

A Perfect Match I Can Be Anyone and Loreliee

Adrian

He hadn't slept much this night, due to obvious reasons, but decided to rise early nevertheless. Seize the day. Not that he solely lived by that motto, he preferred the mysteries of the night, but the recent changes to his life made it impossible for him to escape his reality for too long. Adrian randomly chose a dark jacket out ouf his wardrobe and also took the trousers and shirt next to it. When he was younger he used to consult Lord Melbourne when getting dressed in the morning or for a special occasion, but he had grown tired of it and now did everything himself. He only allowed his butlers to assist him outside his private rooms and even Lord Melbourne could not enter without his approval.

Whilst on his way to the men's parlour, he fished his phone out of his pocket and began typing:

To: Azariah
From: Adrian
Subject: Re: Is this for real?

Azariah,

I hope your flight is going well and you are as thrilled for England as I am to meet you. Unfortunately, this will not be earlier than our planned dinner in two days. I cannot afford to be seen in public, but I am more than certain that you will be fond of the market place. By the way, you are the first person who mentioned this as their first destination they want to explore. Most people opt for Madam Tussauds, the London Eye or Buckingham Palace. I hope you can use your time wisely as long as you're still single and American. And most importantly, have fun.

Adrian

He reread his message and then sent it. As a man, he couldn't resist the urge to check out her photograph again. Even with only a hint of makeup on her face she looked gorgeous and she undeniably beamed with joy. It could have been worse. Observing her selfie for one more second, he also remembered the etiquette she was supposed to follow soon. Which translated to no social media, no unprepared outings and most importantly no public opinion.

A Perfect Match I Can Be Anyone and Loreliee

Adrian

"Dear son. I didn't presume you would arrive during tea time." The Dowager countess scrutinized his outfit, a plain polo shirt coupled with a pair of beige-coloured trousers. "And you look... modern."
Adrian knew that modern meant unsuitable for someone whose every privilege originated from the deeds of his predecessors. And therefore his mother expected him to dress just like his grandfather. (His grandfather, who had claimed to have fought the German threat in both world wars, despite never having set foot on the battlefield. The medals and rewards were benefits of his title, not actual proof of his military service.)
"My pleasure to see you, too, mum", Adrian retorted and gave her a brief kiss on the cheek. Unlike himself, his mother was dressed to the nines in her Edwardian-esque dress. Slowly, she put down her afternoon tea and asked her two guests, young girls, presumably ladies, to leave the room for a short period of time. Adrian watched them giggle and bat their eyelashes at him, before following his mother's plea.

"No wonder people compare our life to Downtown Abbey", Adrian realised whilst looking over the impressive drawing room, as if he saw it for the first time. Without waiting for his mother's permission to sit down in his own house, he settled himself in the sofa opposite to her.
The Countess sneered. "Are you trying to say that I am comparable to the old Lady Grantham?"
"Not at all. I was just complementing your arrangement of the furnishings. But wasn't Lady Grantham just a great, witty character?"
Ignoring his comment, his mother clutched her hands in her lap and tilted her head to the side. "Why are you here?"
"We both know why I am here. To talk about us."
"Us? We haven't had a mother-son conversation in years."
"No, not us. Azariah and me."
"Oh, you are already an item?"
Adrian closed his eyes for a second, before shaking his head. "No, of course we're not", he said with vehemence.
"Then why do you know her name?" The countess impercebtibly raised her eyebrows.
"Melbourne has told me", Adrian lied. "And it is not like she isn't famous enough to be known." He gave her an awkward smile, hoping that she wouldn't call his advisor. She didn't.

"Then tell me, what is it that you need to know? Your wedding will be soon and everything has been sorted out, you shouldn't have to worry about it anymore."
Adrian stifled dissent. "Well, does she know my name for instance? Does she know who I am?"
"Who you are? A wonderful British gentleman looking for a well-mannered and well-educated bride, what else would she need to know? As long as she pay- I mean plays her part, everyhing will be fine. Your title will only help with persuading her to stay."
"Thank you, mother." Adrian knew everything he needed to know. He gave his mother a respectful nod and then left the drawing room. On his way out, he couldn't resist to pause next to the girls, who were patiently waiting in front of the door. "By the way ladies, you are more than welcome to try the delicious tea in my private rooms later." Leaving the chuckling girls behind, he headed back to his rooms, deciding to take a shower before his guests would show up.

To: Azariah
From: Adrian
Subject: Re: Is this for real?

Azariah,

8pm sounds good, but I have changed it to 10. Heeding my advice, the manager will arrange a private dining room for us. The discretion will save us from unsolicited photographs whilst enjoying the evening. I can also guarantee you that you will reside in the best rooms available. This will not effect your expenses in any way, as it is just a small favour I asked for.
I am looking forward to seeing you soon.

Adrian

A Perfect Match I Can Be Anyone and Loreliee

Adrian

Disappointed by his findings, or rather the lack of it, Adrian shut the Google browser and shaked his head in utter disbelief. Even the best stories about Azariah did not seem... truthful. They were meaningless. Unsubstantial. Unfavourable photos that didn't emphasise a possible dark side to her. For a few seconds Adrian had actually believed the tabloid story and contemplated calling Melbourne, but abandoned this plan as soon as he had watched an interview, which featured other celebrities describing Azariah's fit of dizziness as a cause of her illness after a trip. In spite of her fame, Azariah remained down-to-earth, making her even more likeable. And probably relatable to ordinary people. After all she was a commoner, her money did not come with blue blood. Not that it had any impact on her as an eligible partner nowadays. Meghan Markle represented just one of the many renowned examples. And a small, almost nonexistent part of Adrian was glad about it. He couldn't explain why, as he was a passionate advocate of noble prerogatives (not a surprise), but she awakened his curiousity in everything common.

Adrian mulled over the limited options he had, deciding that a marriage might not be as horrible as it had sounded just an hour ago. Frankly, he needed her dowry more than she needed his title. And on top of that, they could still settle for divorce afterwards, couldn't they? The innocuous procedure was uncomplicated and assured him to be able to pay his debts and lavish lifestlye. Nobody expected him to be her forever loving husband and Azariah herself had certainly no interest in fulfilling her duties as his wife. His wife. The sheer thought of it forced him to sit upright in his chair.

To: Azariah
From: Adrian
Subject: Re: Is this for real?

Azariah,

Everything has been sorted already? It almost sounds like they know of our intentions to thwart their plans. Regarding the news, I assume that I will meet you soon. Have they also told you that we are only allowed to see each other on our wedding way? I have almost forgotten that I am 25 by now.

PS. I recommend you the Lanesborough, a former countryhouse, that has been converted to a hotel. (Several reviews endorse my suggestion and the photographs are stunning.)

Adrian

Adrian stood up from his chair and left the room to find his mother, the Dowager Countess. At the same time he wondered if Azariah had any clue about her future match. It was conceivable, unless she already knew about him, that she was busy looking up British people named 'Adrian'. Sooner or later she might come across his name and then - then what? What would she think of him? And why did it even matter? Did it matter to him? Shaking his head, Adrian decided to postpone his speculations until he had talked to his mother.

A Perfect Match I Can Be Anyone and Loreliee

Adrian

Was that her casually chatting with George Clooney whilst sitting on a bench in L.A.? And on the next photograph she was without a doubt hugging Adam Levine. Adrian exhaled loudly, before he scrolled through more Google pictures. In his world, beautiful women were no rarity, but Azariah's looks went beyond a pleasant face. On every single shot her smile radiated joy and self-confidence, her eyes playing with the camera. And even her posture was flawless. This woman knew how to carry herself and ensure her long legs and blonde mane were the center of attention, whilst still managing to make it look effortless. Despite her young age she acted like a professional. She must have been born like this. Gifted by God or Mother Nature. Even the ladies I know do not posssess a fraction of her aura. Another few photographs popped up, showing her holding a cup of tea in an extravagant café in Paris and another one petting pandas in China. Always dressed for the occasion, clearly without having to worry about the cost of her glamorous lifestlye. Surely her many friends helped with that as well. However, as many celebrities as she seemed to be acquainted with, she did not share a 'past' with any of them. Only vague assumptions, but no bulletproof footage. No naked photos on a yacht or smooching with a big name. Just Azariah discovering all the places the world had to offer.

Adrian bit his lip, knowing that she exceeded his expectations. It was no coincidence, his mother had chosen the wealthiest and at the same time most discreet candidate for him. On one occasion Melbourne had mentioned Azariah's virginity, but after having seen these photographs, Adrian couldn't believe a word. (Not that he had ever cared about this particular prospect.) She might fool the world with her pictures, but not him. There was a catch to everything and now he was determinted to find it. Somewhere in the depths of the internet he hoped to detect a scandal that was convincing enough to stop this marriage. His mother wouldn't accept a 'bacheloress' with a dubious reputation and neither would the rest of the noble clan. Relieved at the thought, he pondered his words carefully. In the end, a prevented marriage would suit both parties, wouldn't it?

To: Azariah
From: Adrian
Subject: Re Is this for real?

Azariah,

The end of the week is in no less than three days. Has your lawyer applied for a Visa for you? Not that this would be legal in the first place, but with sufficient financial means he might have done anything, really.
I should go and ask my mum, she has probably asked the Queen herself to deliver your new British passport to you. Who knows, I wouldn't be suprised.

Adrian

Pleased with himself, he continued with his research about her. Azariah on a trip through the deserts of Australia, Azariah reading the newspaper whilst taking a bath in the Dead Sea, Azariah... unconscious after a night out? Barely blinking, Adrian scanned the article, convinced that he struck gold.

A Perfect Match I Can Be Anyone and Loreliee

Adrian

"So um... any ideas, on what the hell we should do about this?" Adrian couldn't hide the smirk on his face, as he started to become increasingly amused by the situation. Whether she truly was his future bride or not was still his mystery to solve, but he admired her utter bluntness. Nobody had ever talked to him the way she dared to. Most people either ran after him or avoided him altogether. There was no inbetween. Then, a thought occured to Adrian. What if she genuinenly did not know about him? What if she wasn't motivated by his title? Without hesitating any further, he replied to her mail.

To: Azariah
From: Adrian
Subject: re: Is This For Real?

To my ears this sounds like an upcoming Hollywood film, haha. At least I would definitely watch it... Anyways, I am glad that you are messaging me, Azariah. A lovely name you have there. For the moment all we can do is wait and wonder. At least this is what everyone expect us to do, what we should do. I have never liked restrictions such as the word should. And neither do you, am I right? We have to prevent this marriage at all costs. Do you know more about your imminent flight to England?

Adrian

P.S. : Arranged marriages never truly went out of fashion. The former Princess of Wales, aka. Diana is the best example for it.

After he had sent the mail, Adrian opened his internet browser and typed 'Azariah USA' into the search field.

A Perfect Match I Can Be Anyone and Loreliee

Adrian

After two hours of exciting marriage talks, (which mostly consisted of Lord Melbourne mentioning the significance of the dowry that came with it), Melbourne declared that he had other 'important' plans for the rest of the day, which obviously did not involve Adrian. The earl himself subtly raised an eyebrow. Such as flirting with my mother. As far as he was aware of, both were born in the same decade and Melbourne did not put any effort into concealing his fondness for the old lady. Probably the reason why they got along so "splendidly". Not that he had ever dared to ask his dear mother.

Melbourne murmured an excuse and left the room, whilst Adrian sat down on one of the comfy chairs. A unicum designed by Émile-Jacques Ruhlmann, which his late aunt had given him. Absentmindedly, he took his phone out of his pocket and started to scroll through the news, without actually reading them. He continued to check his Whatsapp messages, hoped for new Twitter scandals and almost missed the unusual Email, that covered the upper part of his screen. Only the subject managed to catch his attention. "Is this for real?" Well, this basically sums up my whole life, he thought to himself. At the same time, it sounded ... refreshingly different. Something he wasn't used to. Who would send him a message in ...American? He touched his screen to open the rest of the mail and read it within seconds. Over and over again. Azariah... It was a name he had never heard before, but that wasn't his main concern. Which git had access to his private details and, most of all, why? There was only one way to find out.

To: Azariah
From: Adrian
Subject: Is this for real?

My dearest Azariah,

It seems to be the truth. My advisor himself believes in this alliance and that it will 'be beneficial for the both of us.' Marvellous, isn't it? Please tell me if you know more.

Adrian

A Perfect Match I Can Be Anyone and Loreliee

Adrian

"I can and I will NOT marry her." Adrian knew he sounded like a foolish child. "After all, I am the EARL of bloody Summershire."
"Which is why you are marrying her in the first place, my lord", Lord Melbourne replied. Even now in his late sixties his everlasting frown in combination with his tall, skeletal figure and walrus moustache made him the perfect fit for a Victorian librarian or politician. He had decided to become the one and only advisor of the Earl of Summershire instead. Just like his father, his grandfather and their fathers before him. In some way, he was no less a prisoner of the current circumstances than Adrian himself.
"I know, I know. But what if she is - less appealing?" Adrian paced about his bedroom, believing that the steady movement alone could save him from his fate. His mother had refused to show him a single painting, not to mention a photograph of his future 'beloved'. 'To keep the whole procedure as innocent as possible' had been her justification. He did not know her name nor her interests. Everything he did know about her was through Lord Melbourne, which was barely anything to begin with. She was supposed to be an American heiress, well-known in her country and prosperous enough to convince his mother to arrange a marriage between this American girl and her only son.
"From what I have heard she must be wonderfully beautiful, my lord. And I am more than certain that you both will get along just splendidly", Lord Melbourne said with a sly smile.
Adrian gave him a short, less enthusiastic nod. "Only time will tell."

A Perfect Match I Can Be Anyone and Loreliee

Adrian Earl of Summershire (fictional place in Norfolk)
Fictional House of Summershire: s26162.pcdn.co/wp-content/uploads/201…

Age: 25

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Tell me something I don't already know.

Cecily, the Dowager Duchess of Summershire

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(both also known as Lord and Lady Summershire)

A Perfect Match I Can Be Anyone and Loreliee

'A' is a noble English gentleman. A count, to be precise. He grew up speaking, thinking, living the posh life. But, as always, there is a catch. Unlike his other aristocratic acquaintances, A is on the verge of bankruptcy. Completely skint, as the Brits say. It doesn't take long for his mother, The Dowager countess, to think of a convenient solution: Marriage. But who would marry her son, who has a rather unfavourable reputation as a drunkard, womaniser and, worst of all, addicted gambler? Certainly no English woman. To save her son from his bitter fate, the Dowager Countess arranges an overseas marriage with an American heiress and daughter of a self made billionaire. Both parties will not see each other before their nuptials, but what could possibly go wrong?