#( thread ) farah x elliot.

[finclgicls]

the princess quietly slipped past her father's guard while she escaped her current home so she could get away from attending one more boring gala, or dinner, or charity event—she wasn't sure. there was so much she wanted to do. just so much she wanted to explore. she didn't care for dining with french dignitaries or rubbing shoulders with foreign stepford wives—what she really wanted to do was get the hell out of that dining hall and roam paris anonymously. where no one would recognize her and she would be just one more person among a sea of people who had absolutely no idea where they were going or what they were doing. she wanted to see the eiffel tower, for christ's sake!

in some ways she was ready. donned in a pink gown, high heels, and her hair up, she had people believing she was a willing participant in this shenanigan when she really wasn't. farah opens the door to her room, and looks side to side, strangely noticing how her favorite—contains sarcasm—bodyguard is shamefully—sarcasm again—missing and decides this is a good time as any to just get the hell out. slipping from her heels, she takes off in hurried steps, almost reaching for the stairs when she almost slams into a strong chest. "elliot—" the brunette swallows, smoothing the front of her dress, "can you step to the side, please? i need to go downstairs for something."

[finclgicls]

farah really wants to hug him. she wants to throw her hands around his neck and embrace him as her way of saying thank you, but she knows she shouldn’t, she knows it’s a line that shouldn’t be crossed, so she lets her eyes tell him, she lets her expressive ocean blue hues shine with excitement. she also doesn’t want to nag him, she’ll respect the hoops he has to jump through to get her the glimpse of freedom she so desperately yearns for. so far she has been trying her best not to step on any toes and to show her people she’s ready for her time, whenever it comes, but she hopes it’s not near. even in modern years, she wouldn’t be able to rule without marriage and the prospect of marrying someone she doesn’t know is not something that makes her eager for the throne, no matter how ready she thinks she is.

“i—thank you, elliot,” farah beams now, unable to keep her reaction princess-ly. elliot’s next question, though, sobers her up a little. knowing she has to decide what to do next. going back to the party seems like an awful way to end the night after elliot’s promise. he’s not wrong, though, her dance card is full, but there is not one person in there who will dance with her and ask something about herself. they’ll be asking about matters of the estate, what she hopes to do when she becomes queen, and most of all—they’ll try to lure her into thinking they’re the right fit for a ruler, to stand by her side. she still doesn’t understand why she cannot do it alone. she takes in a deep breath considering her options, shoulders sagging a little, and for the first time that day, she wonders what elliot will think of her if she denies going back.

“i think i had enough excitement for a day, elliot, i’m ready to return home,” of course after the show she had put on earlier of socializing with almost everyone she could, the only ones upset would be the ones hoping for a dance with her, but her father could claim she has a migraine or any other reason that doesn’t make her seem weak because god forbid a princess seems human. “do you think my father will be disappointed if i go now?” she wonders out loud, perhaps showing him more than she’s willing to how much the idea of it bothers her deeply.

Though she tried to school her features, Elliot was till able to see the joy that the possibility of him taking her out for a night of normalcy and fun, brought to the princess’ features. Her pretty eyes lit up, replacing her previous look of longing with one of excitement and anticipation for a small taste of freedom from the weight of her title as a princess. But with said freedom came great responsibility to ensure her safety. And had he not just witnessed the princess’ delight and hope that filled her gaze as she looked at him eagerly, cracking silly (yet endearing) little jokes, Elliot might have changed his mind. Their outing would make his job harder, but his job consisted of making Farah’s life easier. So Elliot would do what it takes to give this to the princess. He would of course have to run it by his commander, and no doubt the King himself, but Elliot would advocate for the princess. She had, after all, been nothing but the picture of perfection and had been fulfilling all of her royal duties.

“I give you my word, princess. I will do everything in my power to make this happen.” Farah was, after all, the future of the nation. Sole heir to the crown. She would rule masses, command armies and thousands would go to battle if she willed it so. A small outing seemed like such a small ask from someone who would one day wield so much power. “Now, would you like to retire. Or do you want to brave the party again? I do believe your dance card is full tonight.“ The King had seemed more than pleased with Farah’s display. If the princess wished to take her leave already, she could. She'd no doubt leave behind a line of disappointed men waiting at the chance for a dance with her highness, but her duties had been fulfilled.

[finclgicls]

"ah, he smiles and has a sense of humor," the princess teased her guard, a hint of amusement in her own expression. the loneliness of her position was palpable, surrounded by people who weren't the company she truly desired. music emanated from the nearby room, where others were enjoying the festivities. some seemed to be genuinely having fun, but farah had little interest in attending such events. lately, her father had been urging her to become more involved, take on greater responsibilities, and spend more time in diplomatic dinners and meetings with influential figures. she longed for a chance to be young, have real friends, and perhaps even experience a real date without being trailed by guards constantly on high alert as if any moment could bring an attack. it was exhausting. she simply wanted to be normal.

despite her longing for a normal life, farah didn't want elliot's pity. she recognized that while she hadn't chosen this life, it had been thrust upon her. she didn't want to appear ungrateful for the privileges she had, for the ease and abundance that lay at her fingertips. money was never an issue, her wardrobe was a dream, and she had the means to go anywhere she desired—except she couldn't. it wasn't that simple. her own freedom in exchange for amenities beyond necessity. "you know," she began, breaking the silence between them, "it's been a while since you've been around me, and i realize i don't really know anything about you, do i?" her nose wrinkled in thought, considering the possibility that elliot could be more than just someone her father had hired. "i suppose that's my fault. what do you do when you're not here? what's your life like when you're not protecting me? do you have someone waiting for you when you're off the clock?" she inquired, genuinely curious to learn more about the person behind the guard.

Polite. Well-mannered. Civil. Well-behaved. The princess performed to perfection before all the dignitaries, and even under the constant barrage of photographs she never once lost her poise. A smile ever present. Yet through it all, Elliot could see the sadness that filled Farah’s eyes. It didn't sit well with him. As he stood behind, expressionlessly watching over the crowd, and ever mindful of everyone who approached her, his chest ached for the young woman. Which is why when her tired blue eyes met his gaze, Elliot was able to immediately read what she wanted. And with a small nod, the man trailed after the royal until it was just the two of them out in the terrace. Elliot had to turn back the two men who attempted to join the princess, ensuring Farah could have some time alone to decompress from the formalities.

The sound of laughter drew the bodyguard’s attention, but he relaxed slightly when he assessed there was no threat posed. Then the princess spoke, and longing in her voice made something soften inside him. It didn’t take a genius to learn that her life --while that of luxury and with all the amenities, comforts and privileges which the common man could only dream of-- was somewhat unhappy. The princess spent her life in a gilded cage, trapped by her royal family's expectations. Yet she yearned for a taste of freedom someone in her station simply couldn’t have.

“I don’t go to sleep in my suit, princess.” He replied to her question wryly, the barest hint of a grin teasing the corner of his lips. He wasn’t on duty 24/7. Elliot had time for himself, where he got to relax. Go out with friends, and knock back a few beers. Throw some darts, or play some pool. He could go catch a movie, or simply out to eat. Allowances the princess herself didn’t possess.

[finclgicls]

she doesn't like the term he uses, princess' standards, and while she doesn't really say anything about it, it makes her wonder if this is how he sees her—some high-maintenance royal. part of her wants to argue and tell him that she really doesn't care about the designer labels in her wardrobe, she'd come to this event in sweatpants, but she always needed to look the part. prim and proper. up to the dress code. maybe better than the rest. she knew she'd be all over the tabloids the next day. if she so much as slipped, it wouldn't be just her name, but the name of her family, and she did everything in her power not to let her father look at her with disappointment in his eyes. farah keeps it to herself though. she's very good at wearing her mask. her facade rarely wavering, especially with her back turned to him. "that's a really nice name for a cat—" she wouldn't really know though.

elliot's next few words surprise her. she feels a stir of something inside her. she sure didn't expect a maybe just a no. while she was technically his boss, elliot was still commanded to do anything in his power to keep farah safe, even if it meant not agreeing to her wishes—particularly if it meant that. she's known around the palace for her whims and her wide and soulful and terrible-to-resist blue eyes. she wants to squeal and excitedly hug him. but that would be breaking decorum, so she just turns around, faces him again, keeping her smile polite, but it is clear that there is some excitement bubbling under the surface. she doesn't hide that. "maybe," farah nods, the smile doesn't falter, but she steps closer to her bodyguard, hands behind her back as her heart thunders under her chest. maybe he isn't all that grumpy.

as he continues, the maybe feels more like a yes. it makes her wonder why he's doing that, but then again, it's best if he doesn't dwell much on his choices. farah doesn't want him to regret it before it actually happens. "undercover, hm? does it mean i have to dress in low-key jeans and wear really big glasses that hide my entire face?" she muses with a chuckle, "maybe one of those with a mustache, might take people off my trail." her chuckle settles into a grin. she steps a bit closer, wanting to search for anything within him that might tell her he wants to take it back. "do you really mean it, though? you'll take me out and show me the hole-in-the-wall bars, buy me a cheap beer and teach me how to play pool?" there is a lot of hoping there, it's palpable. "i promise to be on my best behavior, i won't cause a scene, or get terribly drunk, or attract attention to myself, i just... i want to feel normal for once, you know? like those girls we saw earlier." farah confesses, not wanting his pity, but just trying to make him understand.

This time, Elliot allowed the amusement to show on his face as his lips curved up with a small grin. “It’s a bit of a hole in the wall. I’m not sure it’s up to a princess’ standards.” The male teased, though he was being honest. In comparison to what Farah was used to, it would definitely be a downgrade. But it seemed that was what the princess was yearning for. New experiences that her title prevented her from having. “Yeah. He’s orange, hence the name.” The male offered after seeing the way the woman’s eyes lit up at the revelation of his feline companion. Then Elliot saw another emotion fleeting across Farah’s face, and he almost asked her if she was alright before the princess turned away, and the bodyguard held his tongue and let his eyes scan the perimeter while the royal composed herself.

Then for the second time that night, the princess surprised him with her next question. He should flat out refuse that request, but instead Elliot found himself saying, “Maybe.” It wasn’t out the realms of possibility to make it happen. And the longing in her eyes made Elliot want to make it happen. “You’d have to be undercover, though. And be on your best behavior. No shennanigans, whatsoever.”

[finclgicls]

for a moment she felt like she wasn't talking to elliot the bodyguard, but rather a person she could befriend. she didn't fail to notice his apprehension in answering personal questions, nor how he turned off the intercom, whatever was the reason for that. but this was most likely the first time she didn't feel alone that day. she was fully turned to look at him now, back against the railing, a blow of the wind making her wrap her arms around herself. she didn't want elliot to pity her—she didn't want him to think she was some poor rich girl who wasn't thankful for how easy her life was. she was thankful, so thankful she was able to do things for her people, thankful her father took her into account when it came to decision making and thankful she wasn't just some monarch puppet. she was also lonely. she craved those moments. she craved having what other women her age did. going out on a saturday night with friends instead of attending some dinner filled with people who didn't know her. being able to fall in love with whoever she wanted. being able to fully trust people. farah's smiled at how normal elliot's life seemed outside of duty. she wished she had a break from all of that as he did—but she'd never stop being the princess. it was more than just a title.

"cheap beer, good food," she echoed with a nod, "now this sounds like fun. i wish i could someday, just go to some random bar and have some fun," there was a fluster to her cheeks as she confessed, though it wasn't really a mystery to anyone. "wait—" she chuckles, "you have a cat? of course it counts... cheddar, now that's a nice name," farah points. she doesn't have any pets, when she was growing up there were a couple of royal poodles, but the dogs weren't really hers. there was no one really waiting for her to come home when she left. the thought made her frown and she turned around almost immediately, adamant about not now showing him the vulnerability she carried all the damn time. "sounds nice, friends, maybe have a night out every once in a while," she sighs, "maybe you can take me someday? show me how someone can have fun? real fun."

Elliot wasn’t offended by the admission. He was fully aware that the princess could be self-involved in certain aspects, and it wasn’t necessarily a fault on her part. Farah had grown into a life where she had various people under her service constantly. An entire nation. Since birth —day in and day out— the princess had a royal guard at her side. Reason why he took no offense, but was instead surprised when she asked about him. “I—.” Elliot wasn’t sure if it was breaking protocol or not to answer the princess’ questions. There was certain information that couldn’t be disclosed for security reasons. But all her questions seemed safe enough. Though he did turn off his intercom give them a semblance of privacy.

“I go to this one bar. They have cheap beer, good food. And I like shooting pool or throwing darts.” The man offered the information after his initial hesitance. “I have a cat. His name’s Cheddar. My ex-girlfriend left him with me after claiming he always loved me more than her.” After the break-up and the responsibility abandoned on his lap, Elliot had tried giving the orange tabby up for adoption but found himself unable to part with the fur-ball. Plus the cat was so low maintenance to care of. Cheddar coming and going as he pleased —the bodyguard was sure the cat had plenty other homes and he just sometimes visited. “Sometimes he waits.” And demands food and cuddles. But Elliot would never confess that last part even at gun-point. “Does that count?”

[finclgicls]

maybe not even she knew these needs he so proudly was attentive of, but even if his words were sweet, farah couldn't help how her eyes rolled and how she felt overwhelmingly sheltered by elliot's presence. opening her mouth to snap at him a witty remark, she closed it—putting on her best fake smile on her lips as she attempted to not fight with him just this once. maybe it wasn't in their best interest, not right before the event, not when her father and mother had most certainly departed already without her while she was purposefully delaying herself. raising one eyebrow at him as he explained how it would happen—as if she ever needed a reminder—farah crossed her eyes in front of her chest. "so, not a shadow, but a very annoying ghost looking at me the entire night, great." in a sense she was more than aware of how childish she was behaving, but at the same time, she couldn't stop, not any more than she could convince elliot into letting her leave the premises unaccompanied.

jesus, he was infuriating, and bossy, wasn't she supposed to be his boss? knowing it was better to follow him than to stand her ground, she picked up her dress and walked right behind him. she felt a bit hollow as she went through the same pleasantries. other royals complimenting her. dignitaries trying to pamper her up so she could be a direct line for them to her father. pictures were taken. too many pictures. and she smiled through the all, as a princess was supposed to do. this was a full-time job and people expected her to be at her best at all times. no faltering. she wanted to scream. time passed until people eventually grew bored of mingling with her, leaving her somewhat alone as mindless chatter happened around. looking over her shoulder to where her shadow still kept his stance, she threw him a meaningful look, getting up and excusing herself before walking out, rushing her steps as she went through the grand hallway far from the guest's and outside double doors, into a veranda, welcoming the cold night air. she was silent for a while before it was broken by some laughter coming from the streets, she looked down at three women walking around, laughing. "they seem to be having fun, don't they?" there is a longing in her voice, for something she's never had. "do you ever let loose, elliot? or are you serious like this all the time?"

While the princess was the personification of sophisticated composure, after the time spent assigned to her security detail, Elliot could now read her every expression. The petulant pout that slowly formed on her lips was expected by the man. “Being thoughtful and attentive to your needs is part of the job description.” He reflected wryly, a hint of amusement gleaming in his blue eyes. And it was thanks to his extensive training that Elliot was able to keep a neutral expression at the young woman’s exaggerated impression of him. Only a small twitch to his jaw. Her highness could behave like a spoiled brat at times. And this one was one of said times.

“I’ll keep my distance,” he promised gruffly before reminding her. “but my presence will be known.” Everyone who was in such close proximity to the princess had to be made aware she was under constant protection; royal guard always ready to keep her safe and attack should the need arise. “Let’s go.” He said with a short nod, turning on his heel so he could lead the way down the long hall. Once they reached their destination, a silent exchange with the doormen had them opening the grand doors for the princess. Elliot stepped to the side, lifting his arm so he could speak into his ear piece to announce to the rest of the team of Farah’s position, and allowing the royal to step forward so that he was now trailing behind the princess as she was introduced, then welcomed with a round of curtsies and bowed heads from everyone in attendance. And as promised, he allowed her as much space as he could afford without compromising her safety.

[finclgicls]

internally, she might have groaned the loudest groan to ever groan. externally, however, she was picture perfect, as she pretended she was not about to do something both of them knew she wanted to. it was a shame elliot really went through with what her father told him to, it'd be nice to have someone on her side, someone who could cover for her when she didn't want to go to these boring functions, or when she just wanted a day away from being a princess. unfortunately, grumpy mcgrumperson wouldn't be this person. looking at the man with a raised eyebrow, farah takes a moment to look down at her bare feet and rolls her eyes. "so you don't ruin your pretty dress," the brunette mumbles her best impression of the taller man, huffing as she supports herself with her hand on the nearest wall so she can put on her high heels again. "happy? so thoughtful of you to think about my dress," she's bitter and a bit sarcastic.

to most people, it must be nice to be a princess or a member of the royal family at all—for farah, however, it meant following rules, not being able to have fun like a normal person, and going to these events where she would be prim and proper like a perfect delicate petal of a princess, in order to make her father a bit happier with her. something that wasn't exactly easy. she didn't like the constant surveillance. she hated it, in fact, but the dear king made it clear that she was not to go anywhere without being secured by her personal detail—enter grumpy mcgrumperson. and boy was he good at his duty. "do you plan on granting me some breathing room tonight? or are you supposed to be my shadow? gonna let me go to the bathroom? or is that completely out of the realm of possibilities?" part of her was painfully aware of how dramatic she was being, but it was like she could not hold back the brattiness.

"Princess," he said in a low, even tone. His face impassive as he stared down at his unruly ward. His black suit-clad form materializing right in front of her the moment he hears her hurrying down the hall towards the stairs. It wasn't the first time the heir to the throne tried to escape from attending an event where her father, the King, had expressely mandated for the princess to take part in. And while Elliot could sympathize with her on some level --he too found such events painfully boring, plus he couldn't help but notice how miserable she looked in most of them-- it had been made clear to him that he was expected to ensure her presence. He had his orders, and she had her obligations.

At the instructions she politely gave him, Elliot dutifully did as commanded with a short nod of his head. "Lead the way, your highness." The bodyguard said, letting her know that while he wasn't about to block her path, he was very much going to be following close behind. "It's almost time for us to make an appearance. Would you like to put your shoes back on so you don't ruin your pretty dress." He asked, lifting a well-arched eyebrow and waiting expectantly for her reply.