#I think hanae would see him first and be like 'ugh hes too social' and then as hana-chan they would be friends

[frobby]

i think takahashi tohru (ill start being a feminine boy) and yuuma hana(crossplay love) would be good friends

[script-nef]

#bokutoisblessed | Bokuto Koutarou

Category: crack, fluff

2.2k words; MSBY fans dying over Bokuto and his family

Bokuto uploaded another photo

It seems like just yesterday little Hana was swaddled in his arms and now look at her. Like. Holy [censored] look at the [censored] post. 

Dudes like. She can walk now. Her steps are so wobbly but also so cute and my heart like????? Just exploded when we were gifted with the sight of her??? AND THE WAY SHE GIGGLED WHEN SHE ARRIVED AT HER MUM’S LAP A SAFJAKFDL I CAN’T BREATHE

Comments [Anon]: Honestly we the fans of Black Jackals are so blessed because we get to experience this joy and bundle of life thanks to our lord and saviour Bokuto Koutarou and his amazing wife, who will hereby be named Kami-sama. Because God is a woman I called it.

[Anon]: I agree with 97% of this, except for the Kami-sama part. She said it’s uncomfortable and embarrassing so we have to call her something else. How about Wife-sama. That should be fine, right?

[Anon]: Oh I saw that post Bokuto put up! Saying how much he’s thankful for the support but not to call her that! The upload was a short video of her turning red after he called her Kami-sama and it’s a treasure I will keep for the rest of my life. And into the afterlife. Death can try to pull it out of my cold, dead hand but I won’t let it. YOU HEAR ME DEATH???? YOU CAN’T TAKE THIS FROM MEEEEEE

[Anon]: Bokuto said Wife-sama is fine! Apparently she was still red and it was the cutest thing ever. Bokuto is so biased (*cough cough* whipped *cough cough*) but hey I’m not complaining. I don’t think my imagination will ever come close to the actual reaction but I hope it does.

[Anon]: Do you guys remember, when he just started dating her, how he flooded us with posts of her and her only? Like, practically 95% of my feed was her since he was putting so much of them up. She could literally be doing nothing and he’ll be like “HOLY [censored] LOOK AT MY GIRLFRIEND!!!” Without swearing because he doesn’t do that, but still.

[Anon]: OH AND THEN HE GOT INTO TROUBLE WITH HIS SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER ASKJDSKDJF THAT WAS GOLD

[Anon]: THEY LITERALLY PUT A VIDEO UP OF THEM TRYING TO TELL BOKUTO WHY HE SHOULDN’T DO THAT AND HE CONSTANTLY SAID “BUT I’M DATING HER AND THIS IS MY WAY OF SAYING I LOVE HER!!” LIKE BOI WE GET IT EVEN ALIENS WILL GET IT

[Anon]: And it started up again when she was pregnant with Hana. Like I could make a time-lapse video or whatever of her pregnancy just from the photos he put up

[Anon]: I honestly wonder how many photos he has of her and Hana

[Anon]: Probably a couple thousand. I mean like, I have a couple thousand of MBSY members but my love for them pales in front of Bokuto for Wife-sama, so.

→ Continue thread

Holy [censored] I just met Bokuto

Okay so there was news about a new resident coming into our apartment, more specifically my neighbouring unit. It was previously occupied by this really old couple and we had this small farewell party. They dropped hints that the new residents might be kind of loud but that they were great.

A few days later, my doorbell rings and who do I see? It’s [censored] Bokuto. Like, straight up. In his casual clothes. Exactly the same as the photo on his Insta page where he said he was moving. Which I liked practically a few hours ago.

He was standing there with the biggest smile and saying that he’s the new resident and that they’re giving out homemade cookies because of the baby and Bokuto’s volume. And invited me to a small dinner. And I’m. Like my brain. Literally. Like my brain is even blank now. Bokuto. Invited me. To his house. So I could have dinner. And see his wife. And little Hana. 

So I am here now, raiding my wardrobe to see if I have anything wearable because HOLY [censored] [censored] [censored] I’M GOING TO HAVE DINNER WITH BOKUTO AND HIS FAMILY I’LL REPORT BACK LATER IF HE’S FINE WITH ME SHARING THIS EXPERIENCE OKAY I REALLY GOTTA GO BECAUSE MY HEART IS BEATING WAY TOO FAST AND I NEED TO HAVE SOME MEDICINE

[Edit]: This was riddled with spelling mistakes because my hands were shaking from the aftershock.

Comments [Anon]: ???? What did you do in your past life to be awarded the opportunity of being neighbours with Bokuto???? Did you like, save the country or something? Is that what it takes to be blessed with him?

[Anon]: No you gotta at least save the entire Earth for this damn dude thanks for your service I guess

[Anon]: But if you gotta save the world to be neighbours with Bokuto, then what the hell did Wife-sama do to be married to him?

[Anon]: She saved the universe

[Anon]: But I think Bokuto will be the one to say he saved the universe to be with her that cheesy dork ugh I love you

[Anon]: LMAO I CAN HEAR HIM SCREAMING THAT

[Anon]: Are you back yet? Are you alive? Are you blinded by the magnificence that is Bokuto Koutarou and his family? I know I would be. So in order to kill me as well, TELL ME WHAT HAPPENED YOU CAN’T KEEP US OUT LIKE THIS I AM KNEELING ON THE FLOOR AND BEGGING FOR THE INTERACTION PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE I BEG OF THEE I WANT SOME MORE SIR

[OP]: That’s really weird so stop that. I’m just about to go out now! I’ll spend the dinner over there, experience heaven, hope I don’t die of heart failure and possibly come back with a war story. If they allow me. Wish me luck guys.

[Anon]: GO BRAVELY SOLDIER AND MAKE US PROUD I AM PRAYING THAT THEY’LL BE KIND ENOUGH TO LET YOU SHARE THIS WONDERFUL EXPERIENCE

I’M BACK

Okay so that could only be described as one of the best moments in my entire life. Don’t worry, they said it’s fine if I share this. #actualsaints

So I finally found an outfit and took the chocolate that I was saving for myself, but since I can give my arm and leg for Bokuto what the [censored] is a chocolate, right?

I’m greeted by Wife-sama herself. Like. Less than a metre from me, saying “good afternoon” and smiling like the saint of tranquillity. (A side note but how do you have that when you live with Bokuto? And a child? My brother wants to know your secrets.) And she’s wearing what I think is Bokuto’s shirt since it’s way too big for her, I mean the end comes to her thighs. Sharing shirts is the most romantic thing a couple can do I don’t make the rules I’m just the messenger.

Anyway she invites me into their house, their amazingly aesthetical and cozy house. There’s a display case for all of Bokuto’s trophies, awards, certificates and everything. There are photographs of them together all over the walls, hung from strings spanning the entire house. There was a wall section dedicated entirely to Hana-chan. I felt like an uncivilised cave gremlin there.

Wife-sama was still making dinner and I was going to help her but little Hana-chan came to me. Like, she tottered over to me in the blue frilly dresses and tugged on my pants, babbling and smiling. Y’all I nearly died. I literally saw the gates of heaven and had a foot in but Wife-sama saved me by pulling me back into reality. By asking me if I wanted to play with Hana-chan. Which killed me again. And she was apologetic about it too? Like she doesn’t think I would give my kidney to spend time with her?

So I was playing with Hana but sneakily looking at the two of them being cute as hell in the kitchen. Bokuto was attached to her at the hip for the whole time except for when she asked him to get some ingredients. He was a puppy incarnate. They were sneaking kisses, whispering to each other and it was honestly so cute like I was getting diabetes just from one night. 

The food was amazing, the dinner talk was so fun and delightful, Hana-chan was the cutest little angel ever, this was probably the best day of my life. AND WHEN I LEFT FOR THE NIGHT, THEY BOTH HUGGED ME AND IT WAS LIKE BEING HUGGED BY CLOUDS BUT THEY SMELLED SO NICE!!

I shall never forget this day. Mark my words y’all.

Comments [Anon]: How beautiful was their place? I feel like she would go with a pastel tone or black and white. And have cute things littered around everywhere.

[OP]: The house was really unique in the sense that it felt like two houses smashed together. Like they took turns decorating each section of the house. Looked like polar opposites. It was kind of weird at first but the aesthetics flowed well the longer I stayed there, if you can understand what I’m saying.

[Anon]: The fact that Bokuto and Wife-sama are practically opposites in many things but still formed a romantic relationship with each other and the fact that their taste or preferences complement each other perfectly is proof that they are soulmates. In this essay I will

[Anon]: Where’s the essay. Dude where’s the [censored] essay

[Anon]: HEY MAN COME BACK WHERE’S MY ESSAY

[Anon]: NOOOOOOOOOOO THE SACRED TEXTS

[Anon]: Bruh just a kidney? Take my [censored] liver. Take my heart. Oh no wait, she already has it in her squishy widdle hands.

[Anon]: I bid my left arm

[Anon]: Right arm

[Anon]: Lungs

[Anon]: I really love my brain but I barely use it so off it goes I guess

[OP]: ???? Guys? What are you doing? Stop this illegal organ trade in my post.

[Anon]: Shhhhh we’re showing our love

I saw Bokuto shopping and it was so cute

I do not do clickbait, it was genuinely adorable and my cheeks are about to fall off. As was everyone else’s in the entire mall.

I was just doing some shopping, getting some snacks and popcorn for the movie marathon I was going to have and who do I hear? Yeah, it’s Bokuto. And little Hana-chan whining to Wife-sama about how she’s not getting the snacks they want. It’s from memory since I didn’t take a video, I’m not a creep and I understand boundaries unlike some of you assholes, but it went something like this.

Bokuto: But think of all the caramel popcorn we could eat! Hana: Mama, sweeties. Sweeties. (What an angel, am I right?) Wife-sama: I already said no, it’s going to ruin your dinner. Hana: But it’s tasty! Bokuto: Pleaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaase? I’ll do all of the dishes and cleaning today! Wife-sama: You already do that every day, Kou. It’s not much of a bribe. (Husband goals) And Hana, we have other snacks at home. Caramel is bad for your teeth. Bokuto: But babe! Wife-sama: I said no, and that’s it. Hana: Mama!

It was just this repeated for like 10 minutes with Bokuto and Hana-chan alternating their whines. I would have snapped after 5 times but wow, this lady has the mental fortitude of Fort Knox.

They both sulked and followed her around as she finished her shopping. I can tell Hana is Bokuto’s daughter because her hair droops down like his and a cloud forms over her head. It was practically magic.

In the end, they bought one (1) salted caramel popcorn because Wife-sama is too soft-hearted and they literally clung onto her for 5 minutes peppering her with kisses. And Bokuto actually lifted her in his embrace. In the middle of the sweets section. Where everyone was looking.

Needless to say, she was very very red.

Comments [Anon]: Conspiracy theory: factoring in Bokuto’s godlike physical ability, inhumane and endless sunny disposition, his hair’s ability to reflect his moods, it can be concluded that Bokuto is, in fact, a God.

[Anon]: Well someone has a big brain

[Anon]: Wait then Wife-sama would be a Goddess. Gasp SHE DIDN’T WANT PEOPLE CALLING HER KAMI-SAMA BECAUSE IT WOULD BLOW HER COVER

[Anon]: Oh yeah, it’s all coming together

[Anon]: I can kind of see Bokuto and Hana sneaking in sweets and snacks into the trolley while Wife-sama isn’t looking lmao

[OP]: THEY ACTUALLY DID THAT I nearly ran into them again and heard her berating Bokuto for sneaking in chocolate and shoving it beneath all the meat so she wouldn’t notice. My man, please. You can never outsmart your wife.

[Anon]: Next time I go to the MSBY fan meeting, I’m bringing all the sweets I can for Bokuto and Hana. It’s the least I can do.

[Anon]: They’re so cute and I can’t wait for the MSBY match in three days where Bokuto’s family is going to attend. I promise I’ll post about it afterwards.

[lovemychoices]

Before There Was You- CH.6

TRR X ROE

Song Inspiration: 5sos - Ghost of You

Three years ago while travelling in Europe, Eve Sommers was involved in a car accident. She woke up from her coma two weeks later with no memory of what happened to her in the past seven months. Three years later and still no recollection about what happened to her before the accident. But all of that is about to change. Will she finally know the truth? Will there be consequences?

*THIS SERIES PRACTICALLY THROWS CANON OUT THE WINDOW* YEET!YEET!

Characters except my OCs belong to Pixelberry, I am just borrowing them

Word count : 1700++

Chapter Summary: We time jump three months after the masquerade ball. The court are officially in Lynthikos and the snowy atmosphere takes Leo back to a certain memory.

A/N : This is my first fiction series so it will definitely not be 100% perfect. In other words be kind :). Feedback and comments are welcomed, also hit that reblog button if you like what you read.

Catch up with the series HERE

Warning : I’m rating this PG18 cause there will probably be PG18 stuff that’s going to happen in future chapters. So if you read this series you acknowledge that you are 18 and above.

Tags : @thecordoniandiaries @leelee10898 @ao719 @annekebbphotography

@desiree-0816 @rainbowsinthestorm @emceesynonymroll @the-soot-sprite @carabeth @cora-nova @charliejane-blog @dcbbw @hopefulmoonobject @cmestrella @jlpplays1 @pixieferry @whenyourheartskipsabeat @jessiembruno @romanticatheart-posts

[[More]]

“Wow, Hana! You never told me you were an amazing figure skater.” Eve cheers as she watched Hana do a Biellmann spin on the frozen lake. The group arrived Lynthikos a few hours ago and Olivia had scheduled for them to go ice skating on the lake near the estate.

Hana chuckles. “Oh , it was nothing, I learned that move when I was seven, though my skating instructor always said my spins where a bit sloppy.”

“Aww Hana, I think you were amazing despite what your instructors said, right Olivia? She affirmed and gave Olivia a nudge. “Meh, She wasn’t bad.” Olivia smirks.

“Ladies..” Liam beamed when greeted them as he and Maxwell approached the three. “My prince.” Eve smiles and kisses Liam on the cheek.

“Ugh barf..” Olivia cringed followed by sarcastic eye rolls. “I’m going to skate over there where the view is less nauseating.” She points then skates away towards Penelope and Kiara, who were skating or at least trying to.

“Hey Hana, watch me do the ice skating version of the moonwalk.” Maxwell says excitedly trying his best to impersonate the moves in his skate. Hana looks between Eve and Liam then at Maxwell. “I’d better go check on Maxwell before he hurts himself.”

“Subtle..” She grins.

Liam chuckles. “As long as we have some time to ourselves, I’m not complaining. Shall we?” He asks offering his hand. Eve smiles and takes his hand, the two begin skating side by side with their hands intertwined.

“Did I mention how lovely you look today.” Liam grins.

“No you haven’t and thank you.” She winks playfully. “So do you and the court come here often?”

“Not often, but when we do Olivia is always a generous hostess. I did use to come here a lot when I was a child. Leo and I used to have a snowball fight with Drake even Olivia would join us.”

“Leo right, I forgot about him.” She rolls her eyes, her expression suddenly dim.

Liam brows creased, he noticed a change in her tone and the way her body shifted when she said his brothers name. He stops in his skate and pulls her closely while he tilts her chin up. “Eve is something wrong?” He asks sincerely.

Her lips formed a thin line followed by an exasperated sigh. “Look it’s no big deal, it’s just that I think Leo doesn’t like me very much.”

“Why would you say something like that? You’ve been nothing but wonderful throughout your stay in Cordonia. Even Olivia is starting to warm up to you.” He chuckles. “‘Maybe it’s just some misunderstanding.

“I’m serious Liam, everytime I enter the room when the gang is hanging out he sees me and suddenly there’s always an excuse for him to leave. He doesn’t even stop say HI or make eye contact. It’s been two months you’d think the guy would warm up to me by now.. Heck! Like you said even Olivia is already treating me like a friend in her own way.” She looks Liam in the eye. “Normally I wouldn’t care what people think but he is your brother, he’s your family. it’s important to me that we get along.”

Liam heaves a sigh. “I’ll try to have a talk with him okay? In the meantime I wouldn’t worry too much if I were you, you’re a very hard person to not like Eve Sommers.” He grins while placing his hand on the small of her back and pulling her into a kiss.

***

As the sun began to set and the day began to turn dark, snow began to fall on the estate. Everyone in court gathered in the great hall for some eclairs and hot chocolate by the fire.

Leo sat in the library by the window watching as the snow fell from the night sky while taking a sip of his scotch. His mind drifted to three years ago in Finland.

Three years ago - Kakslauttanen, Finland

Leo and Eve lay on their bed cuddled up with each other. They had both been seeing each other for a few months and decided to head to Finland for their next adventure. Eve wanted to see the aurora borealis which was on her bucket list of things to do during her trip in Europe so Leo rented an igloo shaped room made out of glass.

It was the perfect romantic getaway, they could watch the constellations in the night sky while waiting for the aurora to appear all in the comfort of their warm bed under the glass dome surrounding them.

“Okay, how about that one?” Eve pointed to a wishbone shape group of stars. “That’s Perseus and that—.” Leo pointed to the star next to it. “Is Andromeda's line.”

Eve cocked an eyebrow. “I’m assuming this has some romantic Greek tragedy story written behind it?”

Leo chuckles. “No tragedy at least for them. Andromeda’s parents were going to sacrifice her to the monster Cetus when Perseus came and save her, they fell in love, got married and lived happily ever after.”

Leo turned propping one hand on the side of his head. “But if you’re interested in tragic romantic stories.” He grinned and looked back up at the sky through the glass window. “There that one.” He pointed towards the group of stars that looked like they were forming a stream. “That's called the milky way. Though the myth surrounding that constellation differs depending on the country. In Japan the myth tells the story of a celestial princess Orihimie, who falls in love with a mortal named Hikoboshi. When her father found out he was enraged and forbid their love. To punish them he placed them in the sky separated by the celestial river or as we call it the milky way only to reunite once a year.”

Eve got up into a sitting position with her legs sidesaddle, sadness filled her eyes. “Oh my god that’s just tragic and sad, I couldn’t imagine what I would do if that happened to us. To be separated from the one I love, to be separated from you. I—.” She froze when she reailised the words that came out of her mouth. Did I just confessed that i love him? Did he hear me? What if I said it too soon? Holy crap you really blew it this time Eve! Prepare yourself and watch him run for the hills.

Leo gently cupped her cheeks with his hand, closing the gap between them as he pulled her in for a deep kiss, only to pull apart a few seconds later. His ocean blue eyes looking into her soft teal ones. “I love you too.” He says.

A whirlwind of pale green light appeared and swirled above, the streaks tossed about wildly. Then scarlet red clouds of fire pulsated in wave of arcs, rolled against the midnight sky and darting towards the heavens. They both looked up and marvelled at the beautiful lights as it danced in the northern sky illuminating the night.

***

Leo is suddenly pulled out of his thoughts by the squeaking sound of the library door opening.

“And here I thought this was the last place I would find you in.” Liam teases as he walks into the library with both hands in his pockets.

Leo snorts. “And yet here I am.” He opens a bottle of liquid amber and pours it into an empty glass before offering it to Liam.

“Thank you brother.” Liam says taking the glass from Leo. “ I didn’t see you earlier on. You know usuy Drake is the one who is busy brooding, what’s gotten into you lately?”

“I wasn’t really in the mood.” Leo murmurs, swirling the glass in his hand watching as the liquid amber turns into a small whirlpool.

“Is it because of Eve?” Liam asks studying the expression on his brothers face.

Leos is taken aback. Could it be he found out about our past? Play it cool Leo it could be about something else. Leo clears his throat before answering. “Why would you say something like that?”

Liam steps closer rubbing the back of his neck, pursing his lips before answering. “To be honest, Eve was the one who brought the subject up. She thinks you don’t like her and you know what I don’t blame her now that I see it. Ever since she came to Cordonia you haven’t really been welcoming, you leave everytime she enters the room. You barely say more than three words to her whenever she tries to start a conversation with you.” He pauses then heaves a sigh. “Brother you need to tell me if something is wrong so we can all try to work it out. I’m trying my best to convince the council that the woman I love is not just the perfect Queen for me but for Cordonia. Before the start of the social season you promised to help out as much as you can.”

Leo didn’t know what to answer he was stuck between his brother and the woman he once loved, the woman he still loved. Avoiding her wasn’t an option anymore, it might cause more suspicion and suspicion might lead to Liam digging for more answers. He just couldn’t risk letting Liam finding out about their history together. Leo ran his hand through his hair. “I didn’t mean to make Eve feel unwelcomed, I promise I’ll have a talk with her to straighten things out.”

“Thank you Leo, that’s all I ask.”

“And I’m sorry I haven’t been living up to my promises, I’ve just been having a hard time lately.” He murmurs taking a sip of his scotch.

“Is it about your divorce with Katie? I’m so sorry I’ve been so busy worrying about my problems I completely forgot that you have yours. Is there anything I can do to help?”

Leo gave a rueful smile and pats Liam on the shoulder. “Thank you Liam, but these are demons I need to face on my own.”

Liam places an assuring hand on Leo’s shoulder. “ If you ever need anything. You know I’ll always have your back just like you have mine. So what do you say we stop with the brooding for a few minutes and join the others at the great hall?”

Leo chuckles. “You don’t have to ask me twice brother.” They both finished their drinks and went on their way to join the others.

[skyecrandall]

CCAs 2018 Afterparty (Choices fanfiction)

Book: Most 2018 Books

Genre: Comedy

Words: about 2800

Summary: A look to the party held for the winners and others of the CCAs 2018. Read along to follow the adventure of the party hosts, Pax and Eos Elara as they go around interviewing people like the gorgeous Annabelle Parsons or even the grumpy Thomas Hunt. Witness even a dance performance by Kamilah Sayeed.

Note: This story i based on the results of the CCAs 2018. If you haven’t read it yet you may find yourself to be a little confused. So I definitely recommend reading about the results, here first.

"This is Pax and Eos Elara reporting live from the CCAs 2018 after party where our fellow winners and losers alike, " said Pax to the camera.

"We will be your host for next hour or so as we talk to the gathered personality and others. So if you have a question you really want your favourite stars to answer it, twat it to us on Twatter with the hashtag #CCAask, " smiled Eos.

"Can we cut this part please. Ugh why is that social media called Twatter, it feels really gross, " complained Pax.

"We are live right now, we can't edit stuff now. Anyway here is Miss Parsons, the winner of the Best Female LI category. Let's go and hear her mind out, " said Eos as he dragged Pax towards where Annabelle was talking with Hana. 

"Miss Parsons, Miss Lee. Good afternoon. We hope that you are having a good time, " smiled Eos. 

"We are doing good thanks, what are you two doing?" Asked Annabelle.

"We could be doing better since our book didn't get nominated in any category at all, so that’s why we are charged of filming with after party. We are live say hi to your fans!" Said Pax as she waved into the camera.

"So what could the two winners of the same category be talking about like this, " asked Eos.

"I was just complimenting Miss Parsons for her beautiful speech. Sure we, women are currently better treated than during her era, but there is still a lot that is left to be done for men and women to be truly equal, "

explained Hana. "That is very true. It is because of men like Eos right here that our society is still so horrible to women, " agreed Pax.

"Wh-what did I do? I have been respectful to everyone who deserved it, " replied the elder Elara.

"I wouldn't call constant flirting respectable personally, " added Annabelle.

"That's a personality trait!" Complained Eos.

"Sure whatever. Let's go talk to Damien and Hayden now before my brother has an emotional breakdown. Let's head over to the mini-lounge area, " said Pax as she started walking towards where Damien and Hayden were chatting.

"Hey there winners are you enjoying the party?" Asked Pax.

"Parties are not really my thing but hey a party to celebrate my victory is nice, " said Damien.

"Plus free drinks!" Added Hayden.

"Yes and free drinks, " smiled Damien before taking a sip of his drink.

"Anyway where is the rest of your crew? It is a little odd to see just the two of you like this, " asked Eos.

"Sloane was really sad that she could not win her category and so Kai, Nadia and Steve went to console her. Khaan could not come due to Hamza and Alana is busy on a job overseas, " explained Hayden.

"Talking about Kai, here they are, " said Damien.

"I knew Nadia was a little cray but wow she is quite extreme. We could not console Sloane so Nadia just got her so drunk that she passed out. Then because it was make out time, she dragged Steve under a table and god knows what she could be doing right now. Oh hey, Pax and Eos, " said Kai as they settled between Damien and Hayden.

"She sure us a handful, " said Damien when a buzzer could be heard.

"What is that sound, " asked the robot.

"That means that it is time to answer a question from your fans on Twatter. Let's choose a random one that involves either of you three, " said Eos.

"Here's one. By @wescott-imogen . Let's see what it says:

“ Hey Damien I love you. Anyway I would just like to ask you whether you are Bi. I know you are, but some people still believe you are straight so I just want you to say it with your own mouth to confirm it.”

 " read Pax.

"Oh, well I'm most definitely bisexual. I hope this suffice you, " said Damien. 

"Thats not enough. We need confirmation that you truly are bi. You need to kiss a guy right here," added Pax.

"If so, I volunteer," smiled Kai.

"Hold on you can't. Since you are a girl in some playthroughs and for the same reasons i can't too. So that just leaves Eos," explained Hayden.

"Do I really have to?" Asked Damien.

"Well it's just a kiss. It's not a big deal," smiled Eos.

"You better kiss as good as you claim to," said Damien as he reluctantly kissed the elder Elara.

Their kiss seemed rather awkward at first but eventually they both fit together like pieces of a puzzle, much to the disgust of Kai.

"Whoops, we should probably stop the kissing for now. This is supposed to be a family friendly show, " said Pax as she pulled her brother away from Damien.

 "That kiss was actually really good. Like people who boast about this stuff are not really good but you Eos... whoa, " said Damien with a smile.

"I hope you believe me now Pax. My kisses are just the best, " winked Eos. 

"Yeah yeah okay. Anyway we better and go take a look at some other people before we witness a murder live on camera, " said Pax as she pushed her brother away after noticing Kai's murderous gaze towards Eos.

"Anyway time to go and find someone else. We won't find anyone in such a recluse corn-What the hell!" yelled Eos as he turned around and nearly bumped onto Skye Crandall.

"What are you doing here? Where are your friends?" Asked Pax.

"Bailey could not get the permission to come, Rory had to check on their mother, Ajay was bickering with Thomas Hunt the last time I saw him and Bailey's twin came to take Erin for a consolation date, " explained the goth.

"Ah...okay. Still aren't you lonely here? Wouldn't it be better if you stayed at home, no offence ?" asked the younger Elara.

"Anywhere is better than my house, " replied Skye coldly.

"Well anyway we've been wanting to have a talk with you, so will you answer a few questions for us?" Asked Eos.

"If I say yes will you stop bothering me?" Asked the red head.

"Yes? Anyway how are you feeling Miss Skye Crandall? You scored 2 nominations and despite being the underdog in the Best Female LI category you still scored a brilliant 3rd. So what are your thoughts?" Asked Pax.

"Cool... I guess?" Said Skye plainly. "Okay...Do you have anything you'd like to say for your family?" Asked Eos and Skye just gave her middle finger to the camera.

"We will have to censor that in editing, " said Pax.

"Again, this is live. We can't blur this out. Anyway anything to say to your friends that are at home?" Asked Eos.

"You guys are definitely not as uncool as you seem to be, especially you Bailey, " smiled Skye.

"Aww that is so sweet. Looks like our goth baby is actually a goth teddy bear, " smiled the elder Elara earning the two a scowl from the redhead.

"Well we should probably be moving on now. Oh wait look at the time, it's time for the dance performance, " said Pax as the two reporters moved away from Skye.

"Pax is right! Kamilah and her best friends have been willing to celebrate the event by offering us a dance performance. It might seem a little out of season, but that is mostly due to the CCAs being postponed so many times. Let's give our glorious performers a grand applause, " said Eos as the camera panned onto the central stage.

The stage curtain lifted up and Kamilah, Priya and The Baron appeared on stage in their Halloween Santa outfit with a Christmas backdrop.

"Are you sure the dance is worth being performed anymore? It's no longer Christmas, " whispered The Baron to Kamilah.

"We can't let our efforts be wasted. We worked hard on this performance and so everyone will have to watch it, " explained Kamilah.

"Also this is all just for fun and it will be a nice excuse to show off our Halloween outfits again hehe, " smiled Priya.

"Anyway... Nova Elara! Bring on the music! Give us Jingle Bell Rock!" Ordered Kamilah and Nova, the ATV MC! launched the soundtrack.

"Stroke em, Like em, Suck on my -" the soundtrack went on when our duo of reporters noticed the music and rushed on stage.

"Stop the sound!" Ordered Eos and the soundtrack stopped.

"What the fuck where you thinking Nova! This is not Jingle Bell Rock!" Yelled Pax.

"Shut your trap, Pax! This is a fucking family friendly show! You can't curse!" Yelled back Eos.

Realising what they both did, they both fell limp until suddenly Pax's phone started ringing. She glanced to take a look at the name and just accepted the call before shoving it into Eos' hands.

"This is for you, talk!" Ordered Pax who started sweating nervously.

Eos slowly brought the phone to his ears and said a small hello, before an stream of insults flowing from the phone. The person at the other end was so mad that their voice could be heard a few metres away from the twins. After a few minutes of berating the call finally ended.

“So what did Piper say?” said Pax, anxious as she took back her phone.

“She berated me the whole time before saying something like ‘The two of you are never getting hired again’” sighed Eos.

“Hmm, can we continue our performance?” asked Priya.

“No way. Your time slot is over. It’s now Maxwell’s time with his jokes,” replied Pax.

“This is unfair! The two of you crashed our performance!” complained the Baron.

“Listen. I don’t care that you are a super old and powerful vampire. We just got fired and we don’t want to anger that woman again, so please,” said Eos as he walked away, his sister in tow before passing Maxwell the microphone.

“I could use a drink,” said Pax.

“Same...You know what let’s just have fun and keep reporting.  Who knows maybe she will take us back? Anyway dear audience, Eos and Pax Elara are back in business and we are headed towards the buffet table to show you all the delicious snacks on the menu,” smiled Eos.

“Let’s go and see if these food are as wig snatching as people have been claiming all over their Twatter accounts. I mean seriously, our fellow winners have been posting more about the food than themselves,” continued Pax as the two siblings started heading towards the snack table where Elliot Vance and his sibling Harper Vance were having an eating competition.

“Hey there, mind giving us five minutes? We would like to interview you two about your awards,” said Eos.

“We...ant...eed...eaf....fafter” Said Elliot while munching into his food with fervour.

“What did you say? I don’t understand?” said Pax, confused.

“eaf...ing...con...fe...fifon...I...wiff...win,” mumbled Harper in between bites.

“I think they are doing an eating competition. Probably to settle their rivalry with this,” said the elder Elara.

“In that case.... Wooo go Elliot! You were the best!” cheered on Pax.

“Nonsense, Harper had the best performance. If you knew the amount of tissues I cried in watching their acting,” argued Eos as he wiped a tear from his eye.

“Maybe yes, but Eliot’s growth was one of the best part of the book. Uncultured swines like you can’t tell the difference,” voiced out Pax before the siblings started bickering among themselves.

Noticing the fight, Elliot tapped his sibling on their shoulder and said, “We don’t sound like this do we?”

“Nah, our banters are better. Let’s just leave them at it,” said Harper after they finished their food before leaving.

“They should value their kinship more,” mumbled Elliot as he walked away with Harper, however the two Elara could not hear him and just kept fighting among themselves about who had the best performance. It was only when a certain man appeared that they had to stop.

“Can I pass please? You two can bicker elsewhere,” said the man who was none other than Thomas Hunt.

“Ah Mr.Hunt, we are very sorry. Anyway Elliot, Harper can you lend us a word now?” said Pax.

“Welp, they are gone. I guess that means you will have to answer our questions now Mr.Hunt,” said Eos.

“I don’t get a say in this, do I?” asked the director.

“No you don’t. You know we will be annoying until you give us your time,” replied Pax.

“I knew I shouldn’t have come here. First that high school director wanna be and now paparazzi wanna bes. Begin your questions already,” grumbled Hunt.

“Well, as a director, do you agree with the winners of this year’s CCAs?” asked Eos.

“The winners are more or else deserved, although I believe Veil Of Secrets should have won the best atmosphere category though,” said the director when the buzzer suddenly rang.

--BE WARNED: The following section is not safe for work nor suitable for minors, read at your own perils or you can skip it till the next time you see bold text.--

“Looks like its time to search a question for our amazing director to answer, Eos will you do us the honour,” said Pax.

“Of course, here is one by @teamtomsato:

“Hiya Hunty :3333 Have you read my fic yet? Here’s the link! I’m really proud of it! *link to their ao3 fic* *gazillions of heart emojies* “

Aww how sweet. They want to ask you if you read their fanfiction, so have you done so Mr.Thomas,” said Eos

“I do not have time for such nonsense. I’m also having a bad feeling about this,” shuddered the director.

“Come on, it is just a story. What’s so bad about it? I know! How about we read just a page of it right now. Choose a page!” proposed the younger Elara.

“Ugh, let’s see then. Page 84. I don’t think that person’s fanfiction would be that long,” growled Hunt.

“Well you are wrong Hunty. This person’s story is 169 pages long. Here, I already put it on page 84,” said Eos as he handed the grumpy director his phone.

“I guess I should play along just so that this martyr ends quickly,” said Hunt as he started reading off that page.

Additional warning: This is the time that i recommend you to skip to the next bolded sentence once again as the following part is heavily nsfw and definitely not suited for minors.

“Hunt’s rough hands find their landing on Jessica’s shoulders, holding her tightly as his fluid movements against her body cause her to scream out in pleasure.

“Harder Daddy, hARDER!” Jessica’s pants, the grumpy marshmallow picking up his momentum inside of her slick caverns, overflowing with her love juice.

“You like that princess?” Hunt growls into her ear, “You like daddy’s big dick?”

“I love your big dick daddy!” 

“read Thomas, astonished.

“Wh-why...” stammered the director, aghast.

“Oh no, this is bad...We thought we passed through the worst earlier but this is nothing compared to this,” muttered Pax.

“Let’s just walk away like nothing happened,” said Eos but as they tried to go away, the director stopped them.

“Hold on. I’ve got a message for you @teamtomsato . I’ve called the police. They are coming to get you. You going to jail. You hear me. JAIL,” yelled Hunt as he grabbed the camera and focused it onto him.

--You my now continue read. The nsfw part is now over-

“Alright let’s see who we can talk to now...” smiled Pax.

“Hopefully it won’t be someone indecent. Wait, Rye? What are you doing here?” asked Eos after he noticed Rye hanging around.

“What are you doing here, its not your book’s year yet,” said Pax.

“I’m just here to observe. This way It will be perfect when we get win the awards,” smiled Rye.

“Cocky aren’t we?” teased Eos.

“Well I have a reason to be so sure of myself. Our book is doing really good right now and Eris and Tillie have a good shot at winning the best Female LI category. The only real opponent we have are the Desire and Decorum team and also if another It Lives comes out,” explained the conman,

“Interesting. What about your teammates? It is odd to see you all alone, especially without even Eris or Lee,” asked Pax.

“Well they are kinda on a job right now...” smiled Rye and as if on cue, an explosion occurred in the hall they were gathered in.

“The escape route has been formed, let’s go go go!” ordered Eris as members of her crew started running towards the hole she made with jewellery and trophies in hand.

“Well, this is a good bye. See you at the CCAs 2019 and remember to vote us when the time comes,” smiled Rye as he also disappeared through the hole.

“Arggggh I’m not letting them get away! Zekei! Deimos! Parker! Naomi! Let’s catch those thieves!!!” roared Eos as he pulled out his ray gun.

“Well I guess this little report is ending right here. We hope you had a lot of fun and we can’t wait to see you again for the CCAs 2019!!!” smiled Pax before the program ended.

-------------------------

Phew finally finished this fic and with it concludes the 208 round of the CCAs. This fic came in impromptu in my mind so to prevent it from also getting inside the endless cycle of never being written I decided to rush it and I got it right,

IF you enjoyed the fanfiction, please leave a like or a comment/reblog, I like hearing other’s opinions. If you really like my style, please do check my masterpost (in my bio or press the masterpost word) which features all of my written work.

[zigsexual]

waiting game (drake/liam)

note: all the previous driam vignettes are linked on my masterlist here if you want to catch up. this brings book one to a close!! next up, the hunt to clear riley’s name, wherever that might lead. sorry this one is long as fuck.

summary: riley and drake have a heart-to-heart. maxwell shows his cards. the coronation comes sooner than anyone has planned.

pairings: driam, still-in-its-infancy maxwell/mc

word count: 7400+

• • •

Drake agrees to help Maxwell with the party more for himself than for anything else. It’s an excuse to keep busy when all he wants to do is drive off a bridge. Plus, Maxwell has all sorts of expensive whiskey stored away in that mansion of his, and Drake is not above being drunk today.

Halfway through the afternoon, Bertrand puts him and Riley to work on the centerpieces to keep them out of the way while he yells at Maxwell. Riley — whose time with the Beaumonts has been limited, though still extensive — looks concerned, shooting furtive glances over to the corner where the two brothers stand, arguing.

“That’s normal,” Drake says, taking the bouquet from her hands and dumping it unceremoniously in a vase. “Bertrand is calmest when he’s yelling at Maxwell about something.”

Riley seems unconvinced. “I’ve never seen him act like that.”

“You’ve never seen him throw a party before,” Drake hands her a piece of ribbon. “Can you please tie this? If I do it, Bertrand’s just going to yell even more.”

She takes the ribbon from him, wrapping it around the vase, finally focused back in on their project. “Did you ever go to their parties?”

“Not unless I had to.”

“Why would you have to?”

He catches himself, pausing while she finishes her bow. “I, ah… sometimes Liam asked me to go with him. Y’know… so he’d have someone to talk to.”

It sounds stupid as soon as he says it, but she doesn’t press, only straightening up to survey her work. “You guys are really close, right?”

Drake surveys her warily. “Yeah.”

“Does he ever… talk about me?”

“Brooks,” Drake frowns, “I’m not giving you dirt on Liam so you can get the edge up on everyone else.”

“No, no — sorry, that’s not what I meant.” She sighs, rubbing the bridge of her nose. “It’s just… he and I were talking the other day, and he asked me if I thought I could be Queen, and… god, I don’t know. It hasn’t even been that long, and I like him, don’t get me wrong, but…”

She bites one of her nails, pacing around the table. “This is just… a lot? You know? I mean, getting married? Becoming the Queen? I’m not even thirty. I still don’t really understand what a 401k is. I haven’t even bought my own health insurance before.” She looks up at Drake, wide-eyed. “Does Cordonia have socialized medicine?”

“Hey, Brooks, Jesus,” he grabs her shoulders, forcing her into a stop. “What are you on about?”

“I’m freaking out!” she hisses, pushing his hands off her. “What if I don’t want to get engaged? This is all so fast, I don’t even know what I’m doing. Marrying a prince? I mean, what if I —”

She cuts herself off, covering her face with a frustrated groan. Drake glances over to make sure no one else has noticed, but Bertrand is still berating Maxwell, hands gesturing wildly.

It’s been hard to hate her lately, this girl in front of him. She hasn’t ended up quite how he expected her to be, and she’s shied away from the typical suitor behavior ever since she arrived. He understands why Liam likes her, even if he desperately wishes he didn’t. But this — holding everything he’s ever wanted in her hands and folding before she even draws a card?

“You’re not serious, are you?” he says, “Do you know how many people would kill to be in your shoes? You’ve got everything handed to you on a silver platter and now it’s not good enough?”

“This isn’t about you and your ‘nobles are trash’ bullshit!” she says back, level with him in a way he hadn’t expected. “I’m trying to talk to you. I just… I thought maybe by now you would finally admit that we’re friends.”

“What?”

She lets out a loud sigh, plucking at a leaf on their floral arrangement, slowly pulling it off the stem. “Drake, did you ever have a girlfriend?”

He stares at her. “I’m not following.”

“I’ve only dated like, a handful of guys back home, and it was never anything serious. Never anything where I thought I wanted to marry them.” She picks at another leaf. “And with Liam… how am I supposed to know him when it’s only been a few weeks? I’ve always been game for crazy shit, but this… this is next level.” She glances up at him, something serious in her eyes that makes him listen. “Am I making the right choice? You know Liam, probably in a way I never will. What do I do if he actually asks me to marry him?”

“I…” Drake isn’t sure what to say, torn between breaking his own heart and breaking Liam’s. Riley is tearing apart pieces of leaf in her fingers, letting them fall on the ground like confetti in front of him. “Well… what do you want? Do you want to marry him?”

“I don’t know.”

“Do you love him?”

“I don’t know.”

Drake sighs. “Brooks, you’re giving me nothing to work with here.”

“That’s the root of the problem, I guess.” She shrugs. “I don’t really know anything at all.”

“Didn’t you ever, like… plan your wedding or something? Girls do that, right? You never thought about what the person you’d be marrying would be like?”

She rolls her eyes at him. “You literally have a sister, you don’t have to act like I have cooties.”

“That’s not — okay, look, you’re the one who asked me for help with this.”

“Fine.” Riley pauses, thinking. “I’ve always pictured myself with someone who makes me laugh. The kind of person I know I can always have fun with, even on the worst days. Someone loyal and generous, who doesn’t take himself too seriously. Marriage is supposed to be a lifetime with your best friend, right? That’s what I want — a guy who will be my best friend, who I can’t wait to wake up to in the morning.”

She glances over at Maxwell again, frowning when she sees that Bertrand has now taken to reading aloud a printed-out bank statement he appears to have just been carrying around the whole time. “You sure we don’t need to intervene?”

“Yes.” Drake swallows against the knot that’s risen in his throat at her words. Every time he thinks it’s gotten easier, he’s wrong. “Listen, Brooks…”

Bertrand’s voice shatters the moment, footsteps loudly echoing across the floor of the banquet hall, “Have you only finished the one table? In all this time? Good grief.”

Riley slips away from Drake as quickly as possible, apologizing to Bertrand as she grabs a new bundle of flowers and heads to the next table, busying herself arranging. Bertrand follows after her, criticizing her technique.

Maxwell sidles up next to Drake. “Well, that was fun.”

“Sounded like it.”

He glances over at him, a sad smile on his face. “Do you want a drink?”

“God, yes,” Drake replies, and the two of them slip out before anyone else can notice.

---

Miraculously, the party goes off without a hitch — at least as far as Maxwell’s definition of ‘a hitch’ is concerned. The King and Queen make their customary appearance, the horses are inexplicably released into the halls, and Bertrand doesn’t ruin any of the festivities. All in all, they’ve managed to pull off their ruse quite successfully.

Liam leaves right around the time things get particularly crazy, citing his need to be well-rested for the coming coronation events. No one can blame him, but Maxwell still attempts to spray him with champagne before he makes it out. The King’s Guard intercepts him twice.

Drake had spent most of the night avoiding Liam, finding reasons to stick close to the bar, too many memories of parties just like this one where they’d been at each other’s side long into the dawn. He’s tried to keep himself busy (as busy as one can be when an army of staff is constantly there at your beck and call), tried to focus on anything other than the rapidly looming coronation, but as the party comes to a close, he finds himself halfway through a bottle of Irish whiskey with nothing at all to show for it.

Now he’s left with the remains of their motley crew, sprawled around Maxwell’s room as an escape from the lingering debauchery below. Riley is drunk, laughing too long and talking too loud, one arm draped around Maxwell’s shoulders as she tries to teach Hana the rules to “Truth or Dare.” As if there were rules in the first place. Drake is quiet, staring off into the fireplace listening to the three of them yell over each other all at once.

“You’ll play, right?” Riley asks, poking at him with her foot. “I wanna know your secrets, Drake.”

“No thanks,” he responds, edging away from her. “I’ll pass.”

She pouts, turning to Maxwell. “Why won’t he do it? I wanna know.”

Drake rolls his eyes. “Listen Brooks, I’ve been down this road before, and you can’t win with Maxwell. All his dares are personal humiliation like you’ve never seen, and truth is even worse. I’m going to bed.”

He moves to stand up, but Riley grabs his arm, an exaggerated frown on her face. “Please? It’ll be fun. You never let me have fun, Drake.”

“Have your own fun without me, I promise it’ll be a lot better.”

Riley grins, closing her eyes and pulling his arm against her cheek, fingers like a vice grip. “Not letting you go until you say yes.”

Great. He’s had too much whiskey to deal with this. He looks over to Maxwell for support, but Maxwell only shrugs. “The lady has spoken. I promise I’ll go easy on you.”

“Ugh, fine, just —” He shakes his arm in an attempt to get her hands off him, but she’s relentless. “Let go already, Jesus. I’m sitting down, okay? I’m sitting down.”

Riley drops his arm, clapping her hands together gleefully. “I’m starting! My turn first!” She leans back into Maxwell, her hair falling over his shoulder. “Hmm… Max? Truth or dare?”

“Dare,” Maxwell says, not hesitating for a moment.

Riley looks confused. “Oh. I didn’t want that.”

“It’s the rules,” Hana pipes up, demurely sipping some fruity drink she’s been working on over the past hour. “You just explained them.”

Riley crosses her arms, sitting up. “Well, now I don’t like them.”

“Maxwell never does truth,” Drake says, rolling his eyes, “that way no one can ever verify any of the ridiculous rumors he spreads about himself.”

Maxwell holds up a hand. “How dare you, I do not spread rumors about myself. I’ll have you know I never pick truth because I’m an open book, so it’s just boring. I don’t like boring.”

“You’re not an open book,” Riley says, making a face. “That’s why I wanted you to say truth. You’re a locked book. Empty book.”

“Am not!” Maxwell replies indignantly, looking around the room at the others. “Come on, I tell you guys everything.”

Drake just shrugs, and Hana adds, “Well, if you’d really like to know, that’s not usually the case.”

“Ugh, fine,” Maxwell sighs dramatically, turning back towards Riley. “Truth it is then.”

Riley grins, clapping her hands again before she seems to realize this means it’s her turn to ask the question. She pauses then, brow furrowed in thought, before finally saying, “Have you ever been in love?”

“Nope,” Maxwell answers almost instantly. “Alright, my turn now.”

“Open book, my ass,” Riley lays back onto the floor, spreading her arms out like a starfish. “I don’t like this game anymore.”

“Too late,” Maxwell singsongs, pointing at Hana. “Truth or dare?”

“Oh,” Hana looks scared. “Dare?”

“I dare you to go streaking in the banquet hall right now.”

Hana goes red. “Do I have to take off my clothes?”

Maxwell sighs. “Hana, you do know what streaking is, right?”

Riley sits up again, the grin back on her face, already stumbling to get up while using Maxwell’s shoulder as a crutch. “I’ll do it with you! We both go together!”

“That’s not the rules —” Hana tries to interject, but Riley is already making her way over to her, holding out her hands. With a glance between Maxwell and Drake, Hana relents, letting Riley pull her up to her feet.

“Come on Drake,” Maxwell says, standing up as well. “We have to supervise to ensure the dare is completed accordingly.”

Begrudgingly, Drake follows the lot of them into the hallway and down the staircase, slick with spilled champagne, careful to make sure Riley doesn’t accidentally take herself out as she wobbles her way down. She’s already trying to take off her dress before they’ve even reached the room, a flurry of tulle getting caught in her hair. Hana attempts to help, the two of them giggling when Riley finally emerges in just her underwear, raising a single fist triumphantly.

“Now you!” She announces, pointing at Hana, who is already blushing something fierce. The banquet hall is right ahead, where only hours earlier Drake had been fussing with floral arrangements. God, the things he does for these people.

Maxwell opens the doors, the place still set up just how they’d left it, plates and silverware now cleared from the tables. Riley busies herself unzipping the back of Hana’s dress, even as Hana attempts to protest that she doesn’t need any help, face reddening even more with each passing second.

When the dress pools around her ankles, Hana instinctively covers herself with her arms. Riley laughs, brushing Hana’s hair back over her shoulders. “Don’t hide, silly! You’re hot!”

“Oh, I —”

“We both are!” Riley grabs Hana’s hand, tugging her along as she starts off towards the other end of the room, unsteady on her feet. “Enjoy the show everyone!”

As their footsteps fall away into the vastness of the room, Drake takes a deep breath. “I don’t know how you handle that one.”

“She’s fun,” Maxwell smiles. “I’ve never had anyone fun live with us before. It’s nice.”

“Yeah, I kinda… I overheard Bertrand earlier.”

“He wasn’t exactly being discreet.”

“Are you guys good? I mean —”

Maxwell holds up his hand, looking at Drake with one eyebrow raised. “No free truths.”

“Oh, come on,” Drake leans back against the wall, surveying Maxwell warily. “Some open book you are.”

“You have to ask.”

“Ask what?”

“You know what.”

Drake lets out an exaggerated sigh. “Ugh, fine. Truth or dare?”

“Truth.”

Hana and Riley have reached the other side of the room now, both laughing and out of breath, Riley steadying herself on Hana’s shoulder. Drake watches them for a moment before turning back to Maxwell. “Do you have a thing for Hana?”

“Hana?” Maxwell laughs. “No way, she’s gay.”

“What?” Drake’s brow furrows in confusion. “No, she’s a suitor. She wouldn’t… did she say something to you?”

Maxwell shakes his head. “Nah, but it’s not like she’s subtle. She’s barely even looked at Liam, I’m pretty sure she didn’t kiss her ex-fiancé until they were actually engaged, and she blushes every time Riley touches her. I mean, look.” He points out at the two of them, now slumped down on the floor with their backs to the wall, Riley braiding Hana’s hair. Even from as far away as they are, Drake can tell Hana is flushed straight up to the tops of her ears.

“That’s… astute, I guess.”

“I know everything,” Maxwell muses. “You’d be surprised what you can learn when everyone writes you off as an idiot.”

“Okay then,” Drake says, slightly warier of Maxwell now. Maybe he’d been paying more attention to all of them than they’d previously thought. “If you’re not into her, why did you dare her to go streaking?”

“Not everyone has ulterior motives, Drake,” Maxwell answers, crossing his arms. “Sometimes dares are just fun. Also, you didn’t ask again. That one is a freebie.” He turns to look at Drake. “Truth or dare?”

“I know how you work, Beaumont. Truth.”

Maxwell considers him for a moment. “Are you fucking Olivia?”

“Jesus, um —” He pauses, mouth open, not sure how to continue, but the fact that Maxwell has even posed the question must mean he already knows the answer. “Okay, yeah, but it’s… it’s not like that, I swear.”

“I knew it. Okay, your turn.”

“You’re not… I mean, don’t tell anyone that, alright? Nobody knows.”

Maxwell gives him an incredulous stare. “Sure, Drake. Nobody knows.”

“Ugh. Truth or dare?”

“Truth.”

“When did you lose your virginity?”

Maxwell rolls his eyes. “That’s boring. On my birthday. But you don’t get to know which one.”

“Seriously? What’s your idea of not boring, then?”

Maxwell glances over to Riley and Hana, almost as if he’s making sure they’re still out of earshot. Riley appears to be falling asleep in Hana’s lap, and Hana is stroking her hair gently while she gazes down at her face. Shit, maybe Maxwell was onto something with his earlier theory after all.

He turns back to Drake with a grin. “Truth or dare?”

“Truth.”

“When did Liam lose his virginity?”

“I —” The question catches him off-guard, and he fumbles for something to say, leaving the silence lingering between them for far too long. Maxwell isn’t smiling anymore, but he’s still looking at Drake with that curious expression of his, that stare that maybe really does know everything.

“Take your time,” he says quietly.

And Drake is certain then — from the way he glances cautiously back over at the girls, the way he’s lowered his voice at the subject — Maxwell knows.

“I don’t…” Drake still isn’t sure how to respond, grateful for the brief reprieve from Maxwell’s inquiring gaze. “I’m not, I mean — Liam’s very… private.”

Maxwell crosses his arms, leaning back next to him against the wall. “You both are.”

His heart is beating too fast again, echoing in his ears, yet mingled with all the fear and the worry in his veins is something else — something like relief. A tiny sliver of him that is almost grateful for the chance to remind himself that it wasn’t just him alone in this thing. That maybe, even with how hard they’d tried to conceal their feelings all these years, a part of Liam loved him enough to let them leak through.

Maxwell is silent, letting him think, or perhaps just waiting for him to speak. Drake bites his lip. “You remember the week I came back from college?”

“Yeah.” Maxwell glances over at him. “Why?”

Drake looks at him pointedly.

“Oh. Oh.” Maxwell raises his eyebrows, turning to look back out into the vastness of the banquet hall. “Wow. I didn’t actually expect you to answer. Respect, I guess.”

“If you ever speak a word of that to anyone—”

“Truth or dare is sacred to me, Drake,” Maxwell interrupts, “Don’t worry about it. Plus, I’m good at keeping secrets. Kept that one for ages.”

Drake runs a hand through his hair, already feeling the heat rise in his cheeks. “I can’t believe… I mean, you never said anything.”

“What did you expect me to say?” Maxwell tilts his head. “’Hey guys, remember that time I caught you in the upstairs hall and Drake said he dropped something? Well, you may be interested to know that —‘”

“Oh god,” Drake is certain his face is red now. “You saw that?”

Maxwell scoffs. “Wow, you really do think I’m an idiot, don’t you? Liam was literally putting his shirt back on, Drake. Also, I was standing there for like a full minute before either of you noticed.”

“So that would probably be the appropriate time to say something.”

“I was waiting for a natural break during which to announce myself, but you wouldn’t stop making out—”

“Fucking Christ,” Drake sighs. “Is that how you found out?”

“Nah,” Maxwell smiles, only slightly smug. It’s enough to make Drake wish he were anywhere else in the world. “I knew way before then. That was just further confirmation.”

“When did you know?”

“Uh, like Year Seven maybe? I’m perceptive.”

“Okay, it has not been since Year Seven —”

“Drake,” Maxwell shoots him a knowing look. “You’ve hated every single girl Liam has ever been remotely linked to. Remember when he said his celebrity crush was Blake Lively? You wouldn’t watch Gossip Girl with us for a year.”

Drake frowns, crossing his arms. “That’s totally unrelated. Gossip Girl is a terrible show and I hated it.”

“That’s not what you said before Blakegate.”

“Oh my god.”

Maxwell laughs, but there’s still something sad in his eyes. “I always wondered when you would finally say something to him. Or did he say something to you?”

“Nice try, but you didn’t ask. Also, it’s not your turn, and it’s none of your business.”

“Ah, the truth or dare touché.” Maxwell pushes off from the wall, nodding towards the sleeping figures that have become of Hana and Riley. “Come on, let’s get them back to the bedrooms.”

He starts off towards them, but Drake grabs his shoulder before he can go too far. “Wait. You haven’t… told anyone, have you?”

“Who would I tell?” Maxwell looks back at him. “You guys are my only friends.”

“Well… I mean, there’s Bertrand.”

Maxwell just laughs again, shaking off Drake’s hand. “I could fill a book with the things I don’t tell Bertrand. Three books, probably.”

Drake falls into step next to him, the two of them starting the long trek across the room. There’s something amicable there between them now, not so much a friendship (despite what Maxwell says, Drake is ever wary of the nobles), but certainly a kind of quiet understanding. As they walk together in silence for a few minutes, he’s grateful for it.

“Hey,” he says, stopping Maxwell one more time before they approach the two girls. “Thanks. Y’know… for not saying anything.”

Maxwell shrugs. “Sure. For what it’s worth… I’m sorry.”

“It’s fine."

“No, it’s not. Not really, anyway,” Maxwell says. “But if it makes you feel better, once Riley wakes up, I’m going to dare her to eat a ghost pepper.”

And he has to admit, that one does make him smile.

---

The coronation is upon them before anyone is ready, least of all Drake. He’s tried to play by the rules for once, worn a suit and only had a glass or two to drink beforehand, but it’s barely been fifteen minutes before he’s ready to jump off the palace roof.

When Riley arrives, she beelines towards him, much to his displeasure. Maybe she thinks his “commonness” will be a respite amongst the opulence of the occasion, but there’s irony in the fact that the only two commoners now have next to nothing in common.

He pretends not to see her until she’s practically standing in front of him, the skirts of her dress swishing as she walks. She looks beautiful — she always does — but there’s a part of that beauty that’s been ever so precisely engineered for this particular crowd.

“You look just like them,” he says, raising his drink towards her. “Congratulations.”

She makes a face. “Don’t say that. I’m still me.”

“Not for long.”

She eyes the glass in his hands as he takes a sip. “Let me guess, not your first one of the night?”

“It’s a party, Brooks. Ease up.”

“You ease up,” she frowns, “I’m nervous, and you’re one of the only people I really know here, and you’re being a dick.”

“Maybe you should’ve started drinking earlier too,” he deadpans, looking over towards the receiving line where the King and Queen are standing with Liam. “Aren’t you supposed to be over there, anyway?”

She glances over too, following his gaze, and her shoulders tense up. “Yeah, I just… I’m not ready yet.”

“Ready for what? To get married? To become the queen?” He rolls his eyes at her, and she turns back just in time to catch the tail end. Her brow furrows.

“What’s your deal? You know how scary this is for me, I… I don’t understand why you’re being such an asshole. I’m sorry that I’m not wearing Levi’s to a royal coronation, but —”

“That’s what you think this is about?” He scoffs. “You’re such a hypocrite, Brooks.”

“What the hell is up with you?” She says, voice raised. “Like you’re one to talk, anyway. Best friends with a prince? Living in the palace never wanting for a thing? What a rough hand you’ve been dealt.”

“You have no idea what my life is like,” Drake tells her. “You think you know everything, but you don’t know shit about me or anyone else here.”

“Because none of you will trust me with anything!” She yells, attracting a few looks from those closer by. Her lower lip quivers, and she takes a deep breath, steadying herself before she speaks again. “You can’t possibly know what it’s like to come into this world without a single ally. Liam has always had your back, from day one. But he can’t do that for me, because it’s ‘not fair to the others,’ or whatever. I’m already the outsider here, and all those girls hate me, and the press is just itching for a reason to hate me too. I don’t know what else I have to do to convince you that I’m not some gold-digging bitch, Drake. I’m just me.”

He looks at her, really looks, a part of him softening at her words. “Listen, I… I’m sorry, okay? I’m not trying to…” He sighs. “Fuck, I don’t know. You shouldn’t even be talking to me. You should just be enjoying this night.”

“So should you,” she says, “Your best friend is about to become the king. Go pop a bottle or something.”

“Like I said, Brooks,” he looks towards Liam again. “You have no idea.”

Something passes across her face at his words, a question she almost asks, but doesn’t.

“Fine,” she says instead, turning away from him. “I’m going to find Maxwell.”

“Great,” Drake retorts, “I’m gonna get some air.”

There’s a hallway just outside the ballroom that leads outside to the palace gardens, and suddenly he just desperately wants to be alone. He leaves his now-empty glass on a table and slips out of the room through a side door, already filled with relief as the din of the guests is hushed behind him. The hallway is silent except for the security posted every few feet, and they don’t pay him any attention as he starts off towards his destination.

He doesn’t get very far.

“Drake?” A voice calls out from behind him, couched in laughter. “Drake Walker, is that you? God, you look exactly the same.”

Drake turns, teeth gritted. “Leo.”

The former heir to the throne claps him on the shoulder, his other hand firmly clutching a large glass of wine. “How the hell are you, man? Still hanging out with his royal highness?”

“Mhm,” Drake searches for an exit from this conversation, desperately scanning the hallway for anyone to pass Leo off to, but the area is completely deserted. This is what he gets for trying to have a moment alone. “Still ruining the family name?”

“Ouch,” Leo laughs again, holding up his hands in surrender, almost spilling his wine. “Guilty as charged.”

“No offense,” Drake asks, “But why are you here? Liam said you might not make it. I don’t think any of us expected you would.”

“Gotta make a few sacrifices when it comes to my brother, you know?” Leo takes a drink from his glass. “And this is a nice cabernet to boot.”

“A few sacrifices.” Drake stares at him. “Right.”

Leo seems to sense the hostility, barking out another laugh in an attempt to break the tension. Drake doesn’t waver. “It was for the best, what I did. Dad never wanted me to be king anyway, we all know that.”

“Well, Liam sure didn’t.”

Leo appraises him for a moment, Drake crossing his arms as Leo’s steady gaze washes over him. Finally, he shrugs, taking another sip. “That’s life though, you know? You can’t always get what you want.”

Drake scoffs. “You’re such an asshole.”

“Hey, listen,” Leo taps his shoulder again. “Me and Katie… it only took a few weeks for me to know. That’s soulmate shit right there. When you fall in love someday, then you’ll understand.”

Drake’s hands ball into fists before he can even register what he’s doing, and then Leo’s hand has tightened on his shoulder, arm stiff against him as he pushes Drake back. “Hey, Jesus dude —”

“Why the fuck,” Drake says, voice low, knuckles white, “do you think I came back from college?”

Leo blinks, taking a step back from him, head tilted in confusion. “I asked you to?”

“In what fucking world do I ever do what you ask me to?”

Leo pauses, letting his arm drop back to his side. “Wait… you and Olivia? Is that what this is about?”

“No, what the —” Drake lets out an exasperated sigh. “Why does everyone always think that?”

“You just kinda remind me of each other,” Leo shrugs. “Never thought you’d admit it though. Congrats, I guess?”

“You’re such a goddamn idiot.” Drake shakes his head slowly, looking off to the side. “I didn’t drag myself back to this godforsaken place for Olivia, you moron.”

“Then —”

“It’s Liam,” Drake hisses. “It’s always been for him.”

Leo pauses, and the realization takes a few seconds to dawn on him, but when it does he raises his eyebrows, a soft chuckle breaking free before he covers his mouth with his hand. “Damn, Drake. My baby brother, huh? I mean I always knew you were close, but…” He shakes his head, eyebrows still raised. “Would not have pegged you for that type.”

“What does that mean?”

“Just,” Leo shrugs. “Nothing personal, man. I didn’t know, is all.”

“Of course you didn’t know,” Drake seethes, fingers curling in on each other again. “You never think about anyone but yourself. Did it ever even occur to you what you were asking him to give up? The life you took from him?”

Leo’s smile fades, his expression steeling into something reminiscent of royalty. “You don’t understand half as much as you think you do, Drake.”

“What is there to understand? You dropped the crown on your own brother just so you could fuck off with some girl you just met. You’ve been leaving Liam with your responsibilities for years because you know he’d never let anyone down. He’s twice the person you’ll ever be. If you’d ever given a shit how he feels, this would have been your coronation, just like it’s supposed to be.”

Leo twirls the wine in his glass. “Maybe you’re not wrong.”

“Oh, come on.” Drake clenches his fists tighter, jaw set in anger. “Now you want to act like you care? Do you have any idea how many times I’ve watched him pick up the pieces of your fucking mess? How many times I tried to hold him together when you seemed hell-bent on making sure he fell apart? He’d do anything for you, Leo. He thinks the world of you. And what a disappointment that is, knowing what a piece of shit you actually are.”

Leo just looks at him, devoid of any real emotion. “I won’t argue with you. I never deserved to be king.”

“Who cares about being king? You never deserved Liam.” Drake gives him one last disgusted look before turning around, heading back towards the ballroom. “Honestly, Leo? Go fuck yourself.”

He heads straight for the bar inside, ordering a double with no ice, leaning against the counter as he tries to relax his hands. God, he’d never wanted to punch someone so badly in his life. So much for getting some air.

He looks out at the crowd, already antsy, watching as the nobles move about in another traditional waltz. He spots Maxwell and Riley together, already laughing about something as he leads her into a spin, while Hana is caught up in what looks to be an incredibly uncomfortable dance with Rashad. God, he hates that guy. Poor Hana.

“I thought I’d find you here.”

The relief that floods through his veins at the sound of Liam’s voice is almost euphoric.

“Hey,” he says, looking up as Liam approaches, not even trying to conceal his smile.

Liam bumps his shoulder, leaning against the bar next to him. “Hey.”

“You were looking for me?”

“You didn’t come to the receiving line.” Liam’s eyes sweep over his face, taking him in. “I had something to tell you.”

“Never been patient enough for lines.” The bartender slides a glass across to Drake, and he takes a much-needed drink. “What is it?”

Liam leans in close, his breath warm against Drake’s skin, goosebumps rising on his arms as Liam whispers, “Meet me in the maze in fifteen minutes.”

Then he’s gone, as quickly as he came.

Drake breathes out slowly, fingers tightening around his whiskey before he throws back the rest of the drink, barely feeling the burn.

---

He gets to the maze early, wandering along the path for a few minutes as he makes his way to the center. Maybe once this place had been full of unknowns for him, but now he could follow each route by heart, mapping out his footsteps in memories.

He knows where Liam will meet him: the bench overlooking the pond where they used to spend hours together. The swans are still there, feathers glowing in the moonlight, and Drake watches them for a moment before he sits.

Part of him aches inside, being back in this place. Maybe he’s never really let the reality of this day set in; the knowledge that tomorrow morning Liam will be the most powerful person in the country feels not quite real. And the knowledge that he’ll be engaged is too painful to touch just yet.

He looks up when he hears footsteps approaching. It’s Liam, emerging around the corner tentatively, relaxing when he sees Drake on the bench. “You’re here.”

“Of course I am.”

Liam lingers against the hedge for a moment. “I worried… maybe you wouldn’t be.”

“Come on,” Drake cracks a smile. “I’m predictable.”

Liam edges away from the greenery, crossing over and sitting down at his side, careful to leave a respectful amount of space between them. Drake angles himself towards Liam, trying to memorize the way he looks in this moment, before he has to accept the inevitable.

“I just wanted to see you,” Liam says, looking down at his hands, folded neatly in his lap. “This day, it’s been… overwhelming would be an understatement.”

“I can imagine.”

“Remember when we used to spend the whole afternoon out here? Just the two of us? We had no idea. I wish I could have that back.”

“You said no wishing,” Drake reminds him, “It just makes things harder.”

Liam nods. “I know. I just… miss you.”

Drake takes a deep breath, turning back out towards the lake. Even though he can see the palace looming up in the distance, it feels too far away to be real. “Do you ever think about… about what could have been?”

“Always,” Liam answers. “Every single day. Every morning when I wake up, every night when I fall asleep. Do you really have to ask?”

“Liam,” Drake whispers.

“You’re not the only one in this.”

Now it’s Drake’s turn to look down at his hands, too scared of what he might do if he turns back towards Liam. “It’s Riley, isn’t it? She’s the one you’re going to pick?”

He pauses a moment before answering. “Yes.”

Drake nods slowly, letting the words sink in before he speaks again. “Do you love her?”

Liam looks at him, a different kind of pain in his eyes. “Why do you keep asking me to break your heart?”

“At least you’ll be doing something with it.”

Liam is quiet again, but his hesitation seems to be less about Riley and more about present company. It gives Drake a little comfort.

“In a sense,” He finally says. “I feel very close to her. I like talking with her, and I admire her a great deal. I think she would be a good queen.”

“Can I ask… I mean, are things real with her? Have you…” He trails off, not wanting to finish the question, not really wanting an answer.

Liam sighs, and it’s heavy with mixed emotions. “It depends on your definition of real. I mean, I haven’t… been with her, if that’s what you’re wondering. But… I’ve tried to make things real, I suppose. It’s just…” He sighs again, running a hand through his hair. “It’s nothing like you. Not even in the same realm of what it is with you. I could spend years trying to love her like that, but it would never come close to even the first seconds I knew I loved you.”

Drake looks up at him. “You’ve never told me about that.”

“When I knew?”

“Yeah.”

Liam pauses, thinking. “I... I suppose I first thought about the possibility of it when we went on that camping trip together, the summer before Year Ten? I couldn’t fall asleep for hours because I kept thinking about how close you were, what you might do if I touched your hand. I’d never been so nervous around someone before.”

Drake laughs. “I made you nervous? Me?”

“Yes,” Liam laughs too. “You drove me crazy for two years after that, always not-quite-flirting. I didn’t know what to do with myself.”

“I find this hard to believe.”

“Do you?”

“You’re the most capable, put-together person I know. I’m a fucking mess, and I made you crazy?”

“Maybe your mess is contagious.”

“That’s the only plausible explanation.”

Liam smiles. “I have no idea how I got the courage to kiss you. It must have been adrenaline; I’d been trying to do it for months.”

“For months? And then you waited two years to do it again?”

“We’ve talked about this. I... I liked it too much. I thought if I started kissing you again I would never stop.”

But you did, Drake thinks. You did.

“Okay, but when did you know for sure?”

“That I loved you?” This time Liam ponders for only a brief moment before answering. “The second I opened the door and saw you for the first time since you’d left for America.”

“Well, I guess Leo was good for one thing then.”

“He... has his moments.”

Drake bridges the space between them, resting his head on Liam’s shoulder. It’s tentative at first, but when Liam wraps his arm around his shoulders, Drake relaxes in against him.

“I think I’ve always loved you,” he says.

Liam leans his head against Drake’s, and Drake closes his eyes, willing time to stop for them right now, right in this moment.

“When I take the throne... we can’t do this anymore. This back and forth with us.” Liam’s voice is strained, the weight of his words too heavy. “I can’t keep leaving my heart with you when I need to be whole for the country. It’s not fair to you, it’s not fair to them, it’s not fair to me.”

“Don’t say that yet,” Drake sighs, lifting his head and meeting Liam’s eyes. “Give us one more minute. That’s all I ask.”

Liam nods, gazing back at him, arm still tight around his shoulders. Drake reaches up to touch his face, brushing his fingers through his hair before running them down along his cheek.

“If I kissed you right now,” he asks, “What would you do?”

Liam just looks at him with sad eyes. “You know what I’d do. I’d kiss you back. I’d do anything you asked me to, Drake. Anything at all. I would step down from the throne if you said that’s what you wanted.”

“Liam…” Drake’s voice breaks. The way Liam is looking at him makes it hard to focus on breathing.

“I would,” Liam says softly. “If you had asked me… if you had ever truly asked me to abdicate for you, I would have done it. But I think part of the reason I love you so much is that I know you’d never ask.”

“Don’t make me reconsider,” Drake whispers, letting his hand fall. Liam presses a kiss into his hair, the closest he’s let them be since that night after Leo’s abdication, and Drake feels so warm it’s like his blood has turned to fire in his veins.

He sighs. “So where does that leave us, then? I mean…”

“You’re my best friend,” Liam says. “You’re the person I trust most in the world. But it can’t be more than that. I know I... I’ve never been good at saying no to you. And I know I’ve asked things of you that I shouldn’t have. But after today, I need you to be my friend. And that’s all.”

“I...” Drake feels his chest tighten at Liam’s words.  

“So while we figure out what that looks like, it may be best that we... take a break from each other for a while.”

“How long?”

“As long as it takes,” Liam says, resigned. “Until we stop wishing.”

Drake can barely breathe, but even as the tears burn hot in his eyes, he knows Liam is right. This is the only way. This is what it’s always been coming to, ever since they knew he would become the King. He’d just thought… maybe it would get easier. Maybe it would be gentler.

“Will you say something?” Liam asks, and Drake can tell he’s crying too. “I hate myself right now.”

“You shouldn’t,” Drake manages, breathing in deep. “You’re a good person, Liam. The best person I’ve ever known. I hope… I hope Cordonia sees that in you. I hope Riley does too.”

Liam nods. “I love you. I always will.”

“I know,” Drake answers. “I love you too.”

It’s the last moment of the night that seems to make sense. Everything else passes in a blur — the King and Queen giving their speeches, Liam about to make his announcement, the buzz of insidious gossip ringing throughout the room, Riley’s face as she’s pulled towards the exit, the horror of Madeleine standing at Liam’s side.

Drake tries to run after Riley, the lesser of two evils as it were, but the King’s Guard removes her just as mysteriously as she came. And with that, fate is sealed in the worst possible way.

Maxwell calls every airline he can, pulling the noble card whenever possible, and somehow amidst the chaos of the evening, he manages to track her down. They’re huddled in Liam’s quarters like a war room, everyone stricken with confusion and grief and uncertainty.

When Maxwell finally leaves, promising to bring her back, it’s hours into the night. Hana heads out soon after, and the two of them are alone again, circumstances so impossibly shifted that it’s hard to remember the state of mind they’d both started the day with.

Liam is equal parts angry and terrified, pacing back and forth on the phone with all manner of people who might be able to help before finally giving up and sitting down on his bed, staring off into space.

“Do you want a drink?” Drake asks. “I can go grab something.”

“No,” Liam’s eyes are distant, empty. “I think I should just try to get some sleep. It’s late, and there’s so much to do in the morning…”

“Right.” Drake purses his lips. “Well… I’ll be down the hall if you need me.”

He moves towards the door, already reaching out towards the knob when Liam speaks.

“Wait.”

He looks back over his shoulder, and this time Liam’s eyes are locked on him. “Will you… can you stay? I just… I don’t want to…”

Pain flashes across Drake’s face. “I thought… you said we needed to take a break.”

“Tomorrow,” Liam says, desperation in his voice. “We can start tomorrow. Please… I can’t be alone tonight.”

And Drake is already crossing back, already falling right into old habits. “Yeah, Liam, of course. Anything.”

Liam sinks into the pillows and Drake lies down next to him, both on their backs, staring up at the ceiling. A minute passes before Liam reaches over and takes his hand, intertwining their fingers.

In the silence, Drake can hear his own heartbeat louder than anything. It brings to mind a distant memory of ocean waves, of sand in his hair, of Liam.

[thequeenofcronuts]

Justify My Love - Chapter 3 - Visions

Chapter 1   Chapter 2

Book: The Royal Romance Word Count: 2,190 Pairing: Maxwell x MC (Kristina Hampshire) Chapter Characters: Maxwell x Drake ( Friendship )

Warnings - Language

A/N In this TRR au Series: Kristina (MC) decides she cannot stay in Cordonia after the events of the Coronation Ball. Not so much caring about her own reputation, but caring for the life of the man she has been falling for, which is not the prince. She returns to New York and is faced with her heartbreak and regret while Maxwell is left in Cordonia struggling to understand the truth behind his feelings. Will they let each other go?

**All characters and named places are owned by Pixelberry Studios. Rights to the songs, and their titles, used for inspiration in this series belong to:

Justify My Love (Madonna) - Warner/Chappell Music, Inc, Universal Music Publishing Group, Reach Music Publishing, BMG Rights Management

Visions (Maroon 5) - Universal Music Publishing Group

——————————

Maxwell’s POV

“So Hana is already on a flight to LA? And Bastien has already gotten our travel arranged? And we have an actual address for Tariq to go to? And…all this…is set, right?” The truck is silent for a moment as Drake takes a deep breath while his knuckles turn white on the steering wheel. “Yes, yes, and yes Maxwell. For the hundredth time yes. So stop asking.” “Well, Savannah is the one who literally pushed me into your truck. I have nothing to occupy myself with until we can buy what we need since I wasn't allowed to pack or even have the chance to say I was going with you.” Maxwell huffs all in one breath. “And let the record show that I didn't want to go on this ridiculous trip. On top of that now you’ve forced me into an anxiety riddled wreck.”

“Maxwell, we all know you better than you know yourself right now. So just go with it.” “Why Drake, this is pointless. So, if we find Tariq, and somehow talk him into making a statement to clear Kristina’s name what is th-“ “Dammit Maxwell,” Drake cuts him off, “quit saying the same shit you’ve been saying over and over since she lef….went back to New York. Why can't anyone convince you that the worst case scenario is we clear Hampshire’s name so the tabloids and garbage nobles can't continue to gossip about her.” They’ll find someone else in less than five minutes to start on. “This ‘all or nothing’ idea you’re hung up on is not the only answer. We all get it, you want her name cleared so she’ll come back to you.” Maxwell's mouth is agape as he stares daggers into Drake. “Why…what…no it's not like that.” “For fuck sakes Maxwell, why can everyone see this but you. No, don't answer that, I don't have the patience this second. I’ll get you to grasp this when we get settled on the plane, but right now, mercifully, we’re here at the airport so get out of my damn truck.”

After easily checking in for their flight, they head to the gate and wait. Drake lets out a sigh and says out loud to no one in particular, “Thank gods Bastien has the magic of making travel happen fast.” I have to keep my emotions in check, or Maxwell will shut down again. Sinking back into his chair, he watches from about five yards away the younger Beaumont sit, then stand, then pace, then sit, then stand, then pace until they are called to board the plane. While taking their oh so close to each other seats, Drake admits to himself that any hopes of escaping this conversation are now squashed, making him huff out suppressed air. 

As the plane takes off Drake turns to Maxwell and states flatly, “Lets chat.” “Drake, you don't chat, ever.” “That is a true and fair statement. So instead what I am going to do is ask you questions and you give me answers. And be warned, I WILL keep you focused and on track. I’m not wasting time on this when I could be sleeping.” Maxwell hears the crescendo of frustration, impatience, and a little anger peppered in, as his unlikely traveling companion speaks. Drake’s tone makes Maxwell involuntarily lean away wide eyed until the plane’s window stops allowing him to go back any further. “Um Drake, you look pretty upset and kinda scary right now.” 

“Just follow the rules and it will be fine. I ask questions, you answer honestly, and we stay on track. Also remember you are the worst lier. You got all that?” “Do I have a choice? Because I’m not feeling like there a choice since I’m in the window seat, and you're blocking aisle. Plus, even though the seats are tight I’m pretty sure you could still find a creative way to punch me.” “Yep, you’ve got no choice. So now we're on the same page. Ok first question. How much time did you and Hampshire spend together during the Social Season?” Maxwell kinda wiggles in his seat and sheepishly answers, “Um, a lot? Not specific, I know, so please don't hit me!” “Not going to, that's a fair answer. I wasn't expecting a down to the second count.” “Whew, because that would really be impossible to figure since you have to subtract hours of sleep, and activities with the other su….” “Maxwell FOCUS.” “Uh, yeah. Sorry.” 

Drake looks past Maxwell for a few seconds out the window and then turns back. “I just need a simple yes or no for this one, so try for me. Was a good portion of that time with Hampshire spent shopping for cloths, dancing and whatever else it is that makes you, uh…Maxwell?” Maxwell squints as he thinks, “Yes, but don't forget the spectacular screwup I am too.” Drake shuts his eyes and massages his temples. “Ok, not a simple yes or no answer like I asked for, and lets forget your ‘screw up’ thought for now and stick to one ‘Maxwell’ issue at a time. So even though the time was supposed be done in the name of House Beaumont’s suitor, you and Kristina enjoyed a lot of time that technically wasn't necessary, and maybe without one-hundred percent consideration of Bertrand’s scheming to push her to ‘win’ the prince?” More like a blasted reality TV competition. “Yeah, I guess. We had so much fun though! This one time when we were at…” Drake glares. “Uhhh, focusing. Absolutely focused.” Maxwell sits on his hands.

“What was the best part of the Social Season for you?” Drake sees the look in Maxwell's eyes change from apprehension to tenderness, while he answers softly. “Well, honestly, waking my little blossom up in the mornings. She is completely adorable when all sleepy and so funny with a foggy head. It was always a fun time to pick on her with her slowed down witty comebacks. And just to start the day with her. Mornings were the best, usually just the two of us before breakfast each day.” Maxwell’s mouth begins to form a huge grin as he gazes off into space. Drake just shakes his head trying to hide the smirk on his face. “What Drake? I answered your question with an honest answer.”  “Oh, I know you did. But, do you know you just really smiled for the first time since the night of the Coronation?” Maxwell was at a loss for words for a minute. “No, I’ve smiled since then.” “Not ones like this Maxwell.” Maxwell just looks down at his hands and doesn't say anything.

“That's what I thought.” Drake shifts in his seat. “Damn these commercial planes are uncomfortable. Ok, next question.” “Really, more Drake?” “Yes. If you can't hold a conversation without going around in the same circles, and you keep running away from any of us when we breach the subject of Hampshire, I’m going to keep this simple and direct.” Trust me, without whiskey this is killing me. Hell, even with whisky this would still be a form of torture. “I don't see why we are bothering at all with this, Drake. She, she left her best friend…er…friends.” Drake pinches the bridge of his nose between his forefinger and ring finger finally snapping.  “We are continuing because we don't know any concrete reasons for her decisions. Only you seem to think you know for certain, and you're so, ugh, fucking frustrating right now. I mean to me you always are, but this is so madding. Furthermore, we are continuing because Hampshire is one of all of our best friends, and…awe hell…she broke through and turned you all into really good friends of mine too. Now back to the part where I ask questions.” Maxwell is wearing small crooked grin. “Why are you smiling at me?” “Because Drake, you just said I’m one of your good friends.” “Ugh, don't let it go to your head. Getting back on track now. Recently when you’ve been doing all this shit for Bertrand, and the estate, what are you trying to ignore? And don't deflect the question or say you're not ignoring something.” Maxwell shrugs. “It's because Bertrand expects my help. That's all.” Drake rolls his eyes. “Remember the part where I said you are a shitty lier?” He arches an eyebrow at him, while Maxwell turns to look out the window.

“Ok, lets try another route here. When you wake up what is the first thing you think of everyday?” Maxwell slowly turns from the window and quietly answers, “Kristina.” “And who does your mind wander to throughout the day?” Maxwell avoids Drake’s stare and sighs. “Kristina.” “Who have you missed most while you’ve you put yourself into this forced exile?” “Kristina.” “Ok, last one. Who do you wish you were holding at the end of each day, and even holding right now?” “Kris…” Drake quickly sits back with a smug look. “So, Maxwell, we finally agree that you love her.” Maxwell raises his voice a bit. “So what if I do. It changes nothing. She left me…alone…with no contact.”

Maxwell turns his head and again stares out the window for a few minutes, while Drake just leans his seat back waiting for him to speak. Finally in a soft and almost somewhat defeated voice, “But Drake, even if she did like me too, in that way, she had a prince who was choosing her. There is no way she would see me…see me more than a best friend. I’m nothing like Liam.” His face changes to a pained expression. “…but Drake, every time I close my eyes I see visions of her, and during the day sometimes I see mirages of her as if my mind is playing tricks on me.” “Maxwell, look at me.” Maxwell won't turn from the window. “Seriously…” Drake shakes his head, “look at me. Good gods I never knew this happy go lucky thing you have, and seeing the good in everything was just fueled by such stubbornness.” Drake grasps Maxwell's shoulder lightly. “There were signs that you and Liam missed, and Bertrand ignored, seen by everyone else. For one, how the expressions of her eyes began to change almost daily when she looked at you and stole glances. How her body language changed as she danced with you. How she had a special laugh just for you. It didn't take long for Hana to pick up on it, and then she drug me along until I saw it too. She turned it into a mission to get you both to admit your feelings for each other. And so here we are, clearing names and playing Cupid.” Drake shakes his head, “Things I do for you people.”

Maxwell takes a long time to process it all. This conversation, the Social Season, and the little signs he guesses he missed along the way. Drake is almost asleep when Maxwell bolts up straight in his seat, tapping his now bouncing legs while his countenance beams, and he asks with a voice full of excitement, “So, you think it might actually be possible? I mean her… me…I mean it seems crazy but…there's hope, right?” “We’ll find out. But there's been time between then and now for things to have happened, but, aw hell, I’m a guy. I don't know.” Maxwell can't sit still at all now. “Oh for fucks sakes.” Drake grimaces. What have I done? “Now you’re going to be more normal,” Drake uses air quotes around the word normal, “Maxwell on this trip from this point on, aren't you.” Drake drops his head into his hand. “You know it, buddy!” Maxwell is on the edge of his seat still bouncing, which is coincidentally bounces Drake’s seat. I can't believe I’ve made it this far into this conversation without alcohol. Where is the stewardess?

“Sooooo, you think Hana will know? I mean she must. Girls talk about this stuff. When does she land in LA?” Drake, with his head still in his hand, looks at Maxwell through the space between his fingers. “Even if Hana knows anything from before the coronation night, I’m sure there's some kind of girl code or Hana knows some kind of protocol for these types of things. Doubt you'll get anything out of her.” “Okay, so we find Tariq, get him to give the statement, then what Drake?” Drake sits up seeing Maxwell's unabashed hopeful look, “Then we try and find Hampshire.” “Really? YES!!!! Where have you and Hana decided to look first? Ohhhh, does Hana know where Kristina is?” “Unfortunately, no. She hasn't heard from Hampshire at all. Just like the rest of us. But, we are going to start in New York.” “Ummm, New York City is huge!” Maxwell’s eyes grow large as he looks at Drake. “We’ll start where all this started.” Drake says matter of factly. “At a little dive bar we both know.”

[katurrade]

Distracted

Disclaimer: I don’t own any of these characters, PB does. I’m just borrowing them ;)

Pairing: Liam x MC

Rating: G. Fluff, I guess?

Summary: Riley hasn’t put her phone down in days, and Liam has started to notice. He confronts her at breakfast and things take an unusual turn, resulting in a pretty eventful morning.

Word count: 2,000 ish.

Side note: I never used to be into writing, until this crazy fandom came along. To say that I was not a writer would have been an understatement. I was, and still am, horrid at all things grammar, spelling and punctuation. This was my first attempt at writing anything since leaving high school, let alone a fanfic. But this popped into my head one morning, and I had to write it down. It originally started off heading in a TOTALLY different direction but somehow ended up here. It’s long, and was written on my phone so hopefully this works! Tagged long post! Hope you enjoy!

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Liam liked to believe he was a pretty tech savvy guy. Although, when it came to the endless apps one could get on a smart phone, he was utterly clueless. That much he knew for sure.

He did know what twitter and facebook were, though he didn’t manage his own accounts. There were specific people assigned to update those on his behalf, but he knew the gist about them, having to approve a post, or okay a photo from time to time. However, when it came to Riley and her phone, he swore sometimes that it was glued to her hand. She was forever checking up on her family and friends back home via social media. She did miss New York but couldn’t imagine living anywhere other then Cordonia now. It had become her home and she loved it. And him.

Social media was a way for her to feel connected to New York, Liam knew that, it was the reason he never took offence to the time she spent on her phone. That and the fact that she would never ignore him or her duties for her phone. Normally...

Today was out of the norm though, Riley hadn’t put her phone down all morning. Not once. And as he thought about it more, she had been checking it a far bit the last few days.

All through breakfast it was in front of her, she barely touched her food as she was so engulfed in whatever it was she was looking at.

“My love, we have a meeting with our Advisors in an hour to go over next months calendar” He said as he stared across the table at her waiting for a response but he was met with silence, not even so much as a nod from Riley.

“My love...?” He paused “Riley....?”

“Mmmhm” she murmured, registering that he was speaking to her but eyes still glued to her screen.

Liam was growing more and more curious as to what she was doing. What she was watching. Staring at her now sitting up right in her chair, she had given up entirely on her breakfast to focus on her phones screen.

“Riley....” Liam said slowly, trying to gently pull her out of her concentration.

“Hmmm?” She hummed.

“Have you heard anything I have said?” Growing a little more frustrated the more he tried to get her attention.

“What is going on? What are you watching, my Queen?” He questioned. Still receiving no response.

“Riley!” He said a little louder then he had intended.

“Huh? Oh! I’m sorry Liam, what were you saying?” She finally looked up from her screen. She looked a little shocked to see his concerned expression.

“You didn’t hear anything I just said?” He asked trying to hide the irritation in his voice

“I’m sorry, my love, would you mind repeating your question?” She could tell he was frustrated so she willed herself to focus on him and hear what he had to say.

Even though all she wanted to do was look back down at her screen, she put her phone down on the table beside her plate to focus on him.

“I said, we have a meeting with our Advisors in an hour to go over next months calendar, there have been some changes that need our approval”

“Okay, that sounds good” She nodded, hoping that was all he wanted to discuss.

After a moment “Is that all, my King?” She said as she snuck small glances at her phones screen.

“Riley, what has you so distracted this morning? Is everything okay?”

“Umm. Ahh. Yeah....I’m, I’m not that distracted, am I!?”

“You have barely said a word all morning, you didn’t hear a word I’ve said and your breakfast is untouched” He said as he motioned to the plate of food in front of her. “So yeah, a little distracted I’d say”

“I’m so sorry, my love, I didn’t mean to ignore you! It’s just—“ she trailed off as a blush grew on her cheeks.

“It’s okay, but...is ..is everything alright? What are you watching?” Concern in his voice now.

“You’re going to think it is silly, because, to be honest, it is silly” she said bashfully as she lowered her gaze to her plate.

“Riley, it is clearly important to you, so what is it, my Queen?”

She looked back up at him “....okay, but promise you won’t laugh?!”

Now Liam was even more curious then before. Why would I laugh? What could she possibly be watching?

“I promise”

“You swear?!” A look of embarrassment evident on her face.

“Riley, you have my word” he said sincerely.

“Okay...So there is this giraffe named April, I used to goto the New York Zoo to see her a lot before I moved here” Riley paused.

“Okay?” Liam said as he raised an eyebrow at her.

“Well, you see...she uhh, there’s this video, it’s a live feed actually, and it’s on her at the moment...” She looked back down at her hands as she was fiddling with her wedding rings. He is totally going to laugh ..or maybe he will be upset?! I did ignore him all morning for this.

She decided to just spit it out “She is pregnant and they have a live feed to watch the birth!” she blushed slightly as she said it. Slowly looking up to meet Liams eyes, his expression was unreadable. Maybe ...shocked? Upset? Unsure? She couldn’t tell.

“She is currently in labor, I have been checking in for the last few days as I didn’t want to miss it! It’s finally almost baby time!!” She said with far to much excitement in her voice. Tone it down, Riley, it’s just a giraffe ...having a baby....on a live feed....from the zoo in her hometown! Nope! Far to excited about this!

Finally Liam smirked a little, he was trying so hard not to laugh as he had promised. Gave his word even! He started to slip on that promise as he watched his wife trying and failing to hide her excitement, he broke out in a chuckle but quickly cleared his throat to mask it.

“So...you are ignoring me to watch a live feed of a giraffe in New York giving birth? Do I have that right?” He said as he narrowed his eyes at her but raised his coffee cup to his mouth to cover the smile he couldn’t contain.

“Uhh....Maybe? I mean like, when you put it that way it sounds rather bad, but I didn’t mean to ignore you, it’s just—” Riley looked down at her phone and her eyes widened.

“OH MY GOD! ...IT’S HAPPENING!” Her hand flew to cover her mouth.

Just then the doors to the dining room flung open with a loud bang as someone came barrelling threw the doors. Liam tensed at the intrusion, his mind going straight to defence mode as he quickly stood from his chair.

“RILEY!” The figure screamed as they ran into the dining room, followed closely by another person in a much less frantic hast. “IT’S TIME! ARE YOU WATCHING?!”

Liam relaxed realizing it was just Maxwell and Hana. I should have known they would also be watching this live stream. Why am I just hearing about this all now?

“YES! FINALLY!” Riley said as Maxwell and Hana pulled out the chairs on either side of her and sat down. All clutching their phones and gasping.

Liam sat back down slowly taking in the sight of the three of them. None of them taking any notice of him. A King, being upstaged by a giraffe named ...named April? ...A giraffe on a different continent no less!

The three of them were now sitting in silence, Rileys hand was still over her mouth. Hana’s eyes were wide and her mouth slightly hung open. Maxwell had his head turned slightly to the side, one eye closed and the other barely opened, as he clearly didn’t want to see this but couldn’t miss it either.

Liam cleared his throat again “Uh...Good Morning Lady Hana. Lord Maxwell”

To which Hana raised her gaze to look at him “Oh! Good Morning King Liam!” She said as she quickly, but politely, nodded then looked back down at her phone.

Maxwell opened both his eyes and nodded his head to Liam “A Good Morning indeed, Your Majesty”

A silence fell over the room, again. Fine. If you can’t beat them, join them. Liam signed as he stood up, walked over to behind Rileys chair, and leaned down to watch over her shoulder.

They all watched in silence as April gave birth to a healthy happy baby boy! Just as everything was wrapping up the dining room doors opened again.

“Ugh, are you all seriously still watching that live feed?” Drake said unenthusiastically as he entered the room running a hand down his face and walking to the buffet to grab food. “It’s been days, how long does it take for a giraffe to push a baby out?”

They all looked at Drake, Riley and Hana had tears in their eyes. Maxwell looked a little sick. And Liam stood up slowly with a blank expression.

“Oh no, Liam they dragged you into this too?” Drake said with a sigh as he stopped and stared at them all “Am I the only one who didn’t want to watch a giraffe give birth?!”

“That was the most intense thing I have ever seen...” Liam said quietly as he walked back to his chair and sat down.

A few silent moments went by.

“Can we just talk about how cute baby giraffes are?!?” Riley said as she looked around at her friends.

“They are so cute!” Hana squealed

“They are! ...but I think I could have lived with still believing a stork brought them..” Maxwell paused, the colour slowly returning to his face “....do you think Bertrand would let me get a baby giraffe?” As he said it he bounced in his seat looking at Riley and Hana. “I feel like with a little persuasion he might let me get one!”

“No!” Bertrand said as he abruptly walked into the room startling everyone.

“You didn’t even hear what I was going to ask for....did you?” Maxwell countered.

“I didn’t, but I can already assure you the answer is a resounding no” he said as he sat down with his news paper and coffee.

“Liam, you’re the King, can’t you overturn Bertrand’s verdict on this?” Maxwells eyes lit up as he looked to Liam. Trying his best to give him the biggest puppy dog eyes he could muster. “Think of the babies, You’re Majesty!! We could get a few! We could race them! ...And we wouldn’t need hedge groomers anymore! Or tree groomers!”

Liam choked on his coffee a little as he put his cup down and looked to Riley for help in letting Maxwell down softly.

Riley giggled quietly at Maxwells attempts to sell them on the idea and at Liams shocked look to being pulled into this conversation. She then winked at Liam and stood up from her chair “On that note, I’m going to my office to prepare for my next meeting, enjoy your breakfast everyone!” She waved over her shoulder as she walked out.

Liam narrowed his eyes at Rileys back as she left. He cleared his throat as he stood up from his chair “My appologies, Maxwell, I also have a meeting to prepare for, if you’ll all excuse me..” he nodded to the group “Drake, I leave you in charge of this decision” he said as he hastily exited the room trying not to make eye contact with anyone.

“What!? Seriously, Liam?” Drakes eyes shot up to watch Liam leave. “Why do I always have to be the bad cop?” He groaned turning to Maxwell as he mumbled curse words under his breath before sternly saying “No, Maxwell, no giraffes!”

Maxwell frowned heavily as his head lowered realizing he wasn’t getting a baby giraffe. Hana stood and walked over to him, she put a hand on his shoulder.

“How about we go to the zoo and look at the giraffes, will that suffice for now?”

Maxwell looked up at her and nodded his head eagerly “It will ....for now”

[inhalareexhalare]

What’s Wrong?

What's hard about writing Is the manual labor of digging through the mind Dirt meets the eager hands Sometimes they find their way under the fingernails

And that's lucky.

The hardest part is always the first plunge. We are too accustomed to leaving things alone.

We care too little when no one's looking. And we care too much (about the wrong things) when everyone is.

What's wrong with a dash of dirt? What's wrong with a hands-on excavation?

We feel guilty about looking deeper into the lake reflection and prefer to stay inside a jail cell made of concrete conformity and media mundanity.

Peer-pressured popularity

How did we end up this way?

The answer matters less than courage; Take that pen and weave the future.

Dig deeper.

Speak a second slower.

Laugh a little longer.

2018-10-25 10:00 Philippines Thursday

I'm getting a bit flustered from the stress my co-workers are accumulating. The Site Visit is happening this Sunday.

So I entered a party shop for a change of pace. I was always curious about it.

I love gummy candiessssss.

I didn't buy any though. I haven't bought any of that instantly gratifying goodness in a year.

My co-workers need someone like Aesir to cool their heads off. Tension isn't doing anything or anyone any good.

He's the best psychopath ever.

The titanic moon distracts me from worries. It calls my hunting instincts.

Hold on, I gotta capture the moon

2018-10-25 18:22 Philippines Thursday

There. Aw shit I couldn't capture it. I thought I'd get a better view on the rooftop but I forgot this was the city aka cesspool.

Tall buildings that block the light of the skies and the kiss of the wind.

Still an awesome sky though.

Okay here. DO YOU SEE IT?

Please tell me you see it. It really is bigger than it looks.

It's Ugh There

DO YOU SEE IT I really want to share this beauty with you

2018-10-25 19:00 Philippines Thursday

[The Picture Was a Message to Karu]

My phone's time is advanced, deliberately, so I can practice some basic arithmetic.

You get dumb as you grow older. Society makes you think about shit you shouldn't worry about, and those in power would prefer that we remain morons. 

I felt like a cynical perspective was called for

I totally forgot I was worried about something. Hahaha!

Life is mysterious.

I LOVE ARROZ CALDO

2018-10-25 19:15 Philippines Thursday

I watched Ano Hana the movie. It's a lot milder than the series.

Pretty! That's the cover of my old notebook, by the way. Mom thought I liked pink. I correct her with red. I started liking violet and indigo when I entered high school though.

I feel so calm. The good calm. Not the usual dead kind.

I feel very refreshed.

2018-10-25 22:00 Philippines Thursday

Got a missed call from Thor's number at 23:30. I only realized it 01:30. Probably Karu.

To Thor (since Karu's phone is presumably dead):

?What’s up? ‘v’ sorry for being a sleepyhead

If it’s the keys they’re in the pot. If it’s trouble going home, carpe diem.

G’night!

About 20 minutes later, I hear a vehicle parking, and guys talking. I can distinguish Job. I vaguely see men in black semi-formal attire(I didn't wear my glasses).

Karu.

Turns out I guessed the three things right.

We continued Parasyte over super late dinner, and it was awesome.

He's dead though. 

He drank Heineken on the first lunch gig, and Black Label on the second dinner gig.

He doesn't like alcohol, but he seems to have problems with getting the right amount in his seemingly smooth socializing. 

I suppose that is why society encourages people to drink. 

ALL PEOPLE ARE AWKWARD, whether or not they show it, and ALCOHOL IS A SOCIAL LUBRICANT.

Not me. I’m awkward and I know it, and I’m not hiding it.

Dead air should be respected, jeez. Even music sheets have rests.

What a pain this society is lol.

... ❤

I like how he finds ways to watch films with a maniac like me since my primary love language (the reception side) is quality time. He doesn't watch many live action films and is not too fond of slice of life.

I like it when we watch together, but I don't want it to replace the precious words that need to be said.

I love him. And that's what matters.

2018-10-26 02:30 Philippines Friday

Come to think of it, Karu asked me about something last night.

"You almost always don't have a lot of time, right?"

Well, yes. Office jobs tend to do that to people.

"Do you really have confidence that I can get you to med school?"

No, because I don't like med school. I wanted to learn to be both a psychiatrist and a psychologist, but I heard from my med friends that med school, unlike university life, resembles much of high school. 

Fixed schedules, fixed subjects, fixed time.

Now way in hell am I gonna study in a square institution for 10 years.

I’m gonna take my masters to be a clinical psychologist instead, and I’m driven to make it count.

(I researched between clinical and counseling, and it ends up that they are pretty much the same thing except counseling is for more “typical” or “normal” problems like career, financial trouble, relationships, etc, while clinical is for the more “extreme” ones: neurotics and psychotics.

I personally believe that everyone has madness within them.

Everyone has mental chaos, which was what “disorder” really means. For some reason though we ended up associating the word disorder with “disease.”

Anyway, I believe people just hide their crap away. We’re all mad in different ways. But what happens when a particular madness is popular? Doesn’t it make the new definition of “typical”? Of “normal”?

See, normal is subjective. I’m going for clinical psychology to dig deeper.)

Also, it's not Karu's responsibility to get me anywhere.

I told him I'm keeping my eyes open for opportunities. But right now, I'm focused on Peak. That is another form that my dream takes, so he needn't worry. There's no hurry.

"If you find an opportunity, take it, okay? I don't want to hold you back."

I wonder where all that came from. I did just give him the link to this journal, and maybe he read my stuff about my dreams. Or not.

I wonder. I really don't feel like I'm held back.

We're partners. I feel like I'm right where I should be.

2018-10-26 07:00 Philippines Friday

[khiphop-stories]

Umbrella - Chapter VIII

Lesson Eight: Misery loves Company

[Christian Yu, DPR Live]

“Can I sleep here for one night?” He asked you and your eyes widened at him. You stared at him flabbergasted, as if a ghost was standing in front of you. 

“What?” You shrieked in a high-pitch tone, taken aback by his question. You instantly covered your mouth with your hands, realizing you had made way too much noise in the middle of the night.

“I-I mean sleep on the couch....the couch in the living room,” Dabin hurriedly corrected himself when he finally noticed how his question could have been totally misinterpreted.



“Why…?” You blinked at him confused.

 The tiredness that had been wearing you down earlier, now completely gone.

“Because Christian is having rabbitsex. And it’s really uncomfortable with the moaning and groaning and I don’t really wanna run into…you know...whoever he’s banging today,” Dabin explained with an annoyed expression on his face.

“Oh..." An amused grin covered your lips as let out a knowing chuckle. You knew exactly what he was talking about. These past few days you repeatedly came across different women in the hallway. They were coming in and out of their apartment and when your eyes accidentally met, each of them would always have a hazy blush on their cheeks. It wasn’t hard to guess what was going on behind those doors. 

"Yeah, sure you can take the couch, but please, please don’t make a sound, I don’t wanna die by the hands of Hana,” you added in a playful manner and he nodded his head in agreement.

After inviting him inside, you went into your room to get a spare blanket and pillow for him. You placed them down onto couch and he whispered his thanks to you.

Suddenly your stomach growled out loud and you bit down onto your bottom lip in embarrasment, hoping he didn’t hear it. But of course he did. It was so silent, you could have heard a needle drop. 


“You’re hungry?” He chuckled softly. You slowly nodded your head in response as a sheepish smile spread across your face.

“You should eat something. Don't starve yourself.”



“I know, but if I start making food now, I’m really gonna die today,” you said jokingly. Even with the door of the kitchen being closed, the muffled noise would still be loud enough to infiltrate Hana’s sensitive ears. You didn’t want to take the risk of waking her up. She deserved her good night’s sleep. She might not have to work 24/7 like you did, but her boss was the most evil person on earth and being his personal secretary, she was constantly scolded and exploited. She never let it show, but you knew how hard it was for her. So, not eating although you were hungry, was just a small sacrifice, you would gladly make for her. 



“We have some leftovers in our fridge,” he offered you with an inviting smile. ”But chances are you might bump into a naked girl or a naked Christian.”

You contemplated for a little moment and eventually gave in to your cravings. 
“Honestly, I’m so hungry, I’ll take the risk.”

~*~

Dabin removed the plastic wrap from the plate and microwaved the leftover food.

You sat down at the table, waiting for the food eagerly. Since you went straight to the restaurant after finishing your daily work as an intern, you didn’t have the time to buy food, let alone to eat. You even came a couple of minutes late to work, because the traffic was too heavy, forcing the bus to stop at every red light.

The growling of your stomach became louder, earning a laugh from Dabin. It was only drowned out by the grunts and moans coming from Christian’s room.



“Ok, now I get what you mean...” you let out an awkward chuckle.

 Dabin placed the plate in front of you and you dipped the spoon you had stolen from the cupboard earlier into the food

“Mmh…it’s so good!” You exclaimed impressed while you took another big spoon into your mouth. You weren’t sure wether the food was actually good or wether you were just so hungry that even trash would have tasted good to you.  

“Did you make it?”

“No, Rome did,” he shook his head as a long yawn left his lips. You could see the tears of fatigue at the brim of his eyes and it made you feel bad for him.

You quickly finished the food so you two could return back to your apartment and he could catch some sleep.

~*~ [Time shift]

"Bye."

As the doors of the elevator slid open, you heard Christian's deep and husky voice echoing through the hallway followed by the sound of heels clacking onto the floor. You exited the elevator and a beautiful woman walked past you. She threw you a quick glance, but she didn’t say a word. You didn’t bother greeting her out of politeness either, because chances of you seeing her again were practically zero.

Christian stood by the doorframe. When you appeared in front of his sight, he released a light smile. "Hey Jenn," he greeted you. His speech was slurred and his face was tinted in a faint red, presumably from the alcohol in his system. You eyed him up and down and it was obvious what the two of them had been doing just now. He had thrown on a hooded jacket, but he didn’t care enough to zip it up, thus exposing his upper torso.

"Enjoying your freedom much, huh?" You chuckled at him playfully, not meaning any harm. However, a dark frown covered his face.

"Are you judging me too?” "Rome," you called him gently. You didn’t remember when you started calling him by his nickname, but since Dabin always referred to him as ‘Rome‘, you as well had accustomed yourself to use that name.

"I'm not judging you...just teasing you," you grinned at him, wrinkles appearing around your eyes. You weren’t perfect yourself and you also had peculiar ways of handling your problems; you wouldn’t dare judging other people. Everybody had their own way of dealing with a broken heart and his remedy was drinking to oblivion and fucking through Seoul.

His body eased up and he let his arms that were defensively crossed in front of his chest, fall down to his sides. Suddenly, his expression changed. His eyes bore a strange sadness. "I know meaningless sex is not the solution...but it feels good. It makes me forget...for the moment.”

"...but when it's over you still feel lonely," you added softly as though you had read his mind.

“Yeah,” he sighed, nodding his head.

"C’mere," you flashed a smile at him and walked over to him, opening your arms.

"Hm?" He quirked up his brows at you suspiciously, but he did as you said like an obedient puppy.

You raised yourself on tiptoes, because even though you were wearing heels, he was still a head taller than you and you threw your arms around him.

"I'm giving you big hug! It helps me sometimes," you chuckled and ruffled your hand through his hair.

The moment your arms embraced him, he let all his guards fall down. Lowering his head, he rested his chin on your shoulders and slowly wrapped his strong arms around your small frame. “It does feel good." He mumbled into the fabric of your jacket.

“See? It works every time,” you smiled and released him from the hug again, pulling your arms back.

“You look tired,” he noticed.

“Ugh, I don’t remember the last time I slept more than 4 hours,” you groaned.

“You lost weight too,” he pointed out and there was something else in his face now, was it worry?

Your eyes widened at him. Yes, you did lose a few pounds, but you didn’t think anybody would notice.

“I’m a bit stressed…not just a bit to be honest” you admitted with a chortle, “with all the assignments and exams and work. It’s just…getting too much.”

It was the first time you admitted to yourself and to someone else that everything was growing on you. It was too much. You were overstrained. Along with study, work, the internship and attempting to keep any sort of social life it felt as if you were drowning. As if you were trying to keep your head above the water while the waves were coming in.

“You shouldn’t neglect your health though,” he replied, his brown eyes softening at you.

“Says the one who's drinking and fucking 24/7,” you giggled out loud, your laughter hollering through the silence of the night.



“You should try it too.”



“Try what?” You arched up one of your brows at him.

“Sex,” he emphasized that one word. You didn’t know how and when, because everything happened too quickly; but with one swift motion, he had trapped you between his body and the door, his hands pressing against the wall either side of you.

“It’s the best way to release your stress,” he said in a dangerous and low tone and lay one of his hands on your waist, as he leaned closer to you, his head hovering right above your ear. Flustered by the course of events, your body froze entirely. It was your time seeing him like this and it made you panicked. His eyes were dark, glistening with desire.

“I could help you take your mind off things,” he whispered into your ear, leaving a wet kiss on your neck.

Dun dun duuuunn... What do you guys think will happen next? How will Jenn react? What will happen to their friendship? Let me know all your theories again! It’s so much fun reading them :)

[blazerina]

All At Once (Drake x MC)

**This is my entry for Choices Creates week 14. I know I’m submitted past the 4 pm deadline but wanted to try anyway. ☺️

Thank you to the fabulous @mermaidwarriorqueen and @hollyashton for hosting.

This prompt was way more difficult than I thought it would be. I used the song “At Last I See the Light” from Tangled as my inspiration.

This features Drake and my MC, Charlotte Westbrook. And I apologize for the length of this post. But still…I hope you enjoy! **

–

“Excuse me?! You’re what?!” Bertrand raised his voice and clenched his fists at his side. His head was spinning and he was sure he didn’t hear his sponsored contestant correctly.

“Charlotte, there must be a way we can remedy this…you’re our only hope at rescuing our family, our house, our legacy in Cordonia!” Maxwell begged.

“Please know that I have thought about all of that a million times.” Charlotte explained, remaining calm. “I know what kind of position this puts you in and how it will look to everyone, but I cannot stay in this competition any longer. It’s not fair to Liam, or the other ladies, or even this country, for that matter.”

“I cannot believe what I’m hearing. Maxwell, you’ve done a fine job of ruining everything, as always.” Bertrand moved towards the door of Charlotte’s room.

“Well if you’re leaving, leave. Get out at once. I hope to never see the likes of you again. I would say it has been a pleasure, but it truly has NOT been. Maxwell, follow me. We will have to resort to plan B.” He walked quickly out of the room, leaving the door open just a crack.

“Maxwell, I – “ Charlotte began, but he cut her off mid-sentence.

“There’s no need to apologize. You’re a great person, Charlotte and you’re doing what you think is best. Who am I to criticize you? I must admit I was hopeful that you and Liam would be the perfect match…but clearly, your heart isn’t in it. I don’t blame you; I blame myself. Best of luck to you in…whatever it is you do when you get back to New York. I do hope we can remain fr—“

“MAXWELL! NOW!” Bertrand bellowed from the hallway. “Enough blubbering. We have a lot of work to do. Let’s go!”

“Bye.” Maxwell replied sheepishly, as he shuffled out the door. All Charlotte could do was wave as she choked back tears and prayed she was making the right decision.

She hated how much her decision to leave the competition would affect so many people. She was used to making up her own mind and only having to worry about herself. That’s just another indication that I have no business being married OR ruling a country. She told herself as she began to pack up her belongings.

With each item that she put in her suitcase, she reminisced. She came with one bag and one dress, but now had a lot more clothes, and friends (at least she hoped they were friends).

She dreaded telling Hana. Her plan was to sneak out somehow so she wouldn’t have to face Liam. How could she tell him that she didn’t love him like he loved her? She had been avoiding one on one time with him all throughout the competition.

As tempting as hedge mazes, cozy hot tubs and beautiful waterfalls were, she always said no when he offered to spend time alone with her. Her feelings for him just weren’t there and she couldn’t magically make herself fall in love with him even as hard as she tried…especially with so many other ladies chomping at the bit, ready to be queen - ready to love Liam in ways, she knew she never could.

Charlotte looked out the window with a heavy sigh. The sun was about to set and she knew she needed to leave first thing in the morning, before the next social event was underway and before anyone could notice she was missing.

As she sat on the edge of her bed, she closed her eyes and finally gave in to the weight of the emotions that had caused her to make this “irrational decision” as Bertrand had first called it.

Slowly, softly and quietly, tears began to fall down her cheeks. In an odd way, she savored the feeling of the burn in her eyes and their warmth on her face as they dripped down to her chin. This is what I deserve. She told herself. This is what I get. I knew I was in too far. I knew I was in over my head. Why didn’t I turn around? Why didn’t I say no before I even set foot in this place? The moment I got on that plane and saw him – I knew. I knew I couldn’t do this. Why did I let it go this far?!

Her mind immediately flew back to the day she stepped on the plane with Maxwell and the look of surprise on Drake’s face.

Seeing Drake again made her heart flip-flop, bounce down to her knees and up into her throat. She had been attracted to him immediately, the night before. There was something about him that made her want to know him more. His confidence. His assuredness. He was kind of a mystery, but she knew she liked him right away.

She also knew then, that it would be dangerous, or at the very least difficult, for her to embark on this journey with him around at all times. And at that time, she had no idea how much she’d have to see him, spend time with him, and how much she’d get to know him while trying to win Liam’s heart.

At first, when she left New York she told herself she had nothing to lose. And now that she was returning, she realized she had pretty much lost everything.

When she blurted out that he was “more her type” than royalty, she almost clasped her hands over her mouth immediately. Scolding herself and reminding herself she could not be “normal Charlie” anymore. She had to be someone else. Heck, people here didn’t even call her Charlie or know that it was her nickname.

See? No one here even knows the real me. This is for the best. This is the right decision!

She inhaled sharply, clenched her fists and stood up. Looking in the mirror, she wiped her eyes and reached for her make up brush to reapply some powder and blush.

“We always want to look our best. You never know when or who is watching you. Do not EVER leave your room without make up and a smile. Got it?” Bertrand’s voice rang clearly in Charlotte’s head.

“Screw it.” She said, throwing her make up brush back in her bag. “I’m going out however I want. Doesn’t matter now, anyway…”

She pulled her long, dark hair, up into a messy bun and wiped her face completely clean. She took the contacts out of her blue-green eyes, threw on her tortoise-shell glasses and changed into an oversized sweatshirt with leggings, before putting on running shoes.

The evenings were cool and breezy in Cordonia this time of year. She felt like running and that was just what she was going to do.

Charlotte quietly closed her bedroom door as she peeked down both sides of the hallway, silently praying she wouldn’t be seen.

She knew once the news spread about her leaving, and once people found out, it would be chaos. Part of her felt awful for what she would be putting everyone through…but another part of her felt free and she knew she was making the right decision in the end.

She made it outside through the rear side door, and soon found herself on a trail leading into the woods.

She took a deep breath and inhaled the evening air. It was crisp and light. It felt as though the air itself was filling her lungs with opportunity and possibility she hadn’t allowed herself to feel before. For the first time since she had set foot in Cordonia, she felt free.

Lightly, she started jogging, following the rugged path. She had found this trail one of the first nights she was in Cordonia and knew it well.

Her head began emptying of all kinds of thoughts. Seeing her friends once she got back to New York…sleeping in her own bed again…trying to find a job…calling her sister to tell her everything…and maybe even calling up her ex to see how he was doing.

Aaron. She smiled, thinking about her old boyfriend. Maybe he hasn’t moved on yet and we can – whoa. Do I miss him? Wait what?

Her feet came to a sudden halt. She tried to catch her breath, her hands on her knees as she hunched over herself, while shaking her head.

She mentally tried to push away those random thoughts that had entered her mind. What am I doing?! She asked out loud.

As she controlled her breathing, she stood up straight and also began to look around. The territory was all of a sudden unfamiliar. It was also getting darker, and colder by the second.

“Where am I? Her heart began to race again, although she remained still. How did I get off the trail?! Ugh!”

She let out a sigh of frustration as a group of birds flew up into the night sky, startled by her noise.

As she began to furiously scan the clearing for a path or anything marking the trail, she began to realize what danger she was in.

She had no way of reaching anyone and no one knew she was out there. She had never really been great in the outdoors. She knew she needed to stay calm, but also wondered how long it would be until she was overtaken by panic and anxiety.

“I’m okay. I’m okay.” She kept telling herself, trying to remember which direction she came from.

A little while later, she had been wandering around for what felt like hours. She thought she was now back in that same clearing where she first realized she was lost.

It was now pitch black and the sky was filled with stars. She looked up and smiled. Remembering the night she became certain she was not in love with Prince Liam. She had always kind of known he wasn’t the one…but that night, in the snow, laying under the stars with Drake, sealed her fate forever and confirmed her feelings for him, instead.

Yes. He was a jerk. Not really pleasant, or really that kind, but he was deep. There were layers to him the he himself probably didn’t even understand. He probably didn’t even know those deep dark parts of himself exist.

His eyes were always sincere. Passionate. And anyone could tell within minutes of talking to him, that know he was genuine. Drake was someone who never said or did something just for the hell of it. He followed through for those he cared about time and time and time again.

And for whatever reason, he had been Charlotte’s rock throughout the whole competition experience. It wasn’t Maxwell or Bertrand, or even Liam, surprisingly. It was Drake.

Charlotte found an old uprooted tree and sat down on the stump. Adjusting her glasses to gaze up at the night sky once again.

She sighed and pulled her sweatshirt over her knees as she hugged them to her chest. Again she began to cry.

Knowing that Drake didn’t see her the way she saw him. Knowing he would never want anything to do with someone who was a “nobility-chaser” (that’s what he had once called people who follow the aristocracy around like paparazzi).

Sure, they never got a chance to really be themselves together. But they had a lot of moments. Smaller little glimpses here and there, interactions that lasted mere seconds, but were filled with emotion and care for each other.

Their relationship was doomed before it began, and now here she was throwing away a chance to be queen, all because of him.

She began cry harder and sob louder as she thought about all she would be missing; all that she would never know. She had to get out, she had to leave before she saw him and changed her mind.

Never in her wildest dreams did she imagine falling for Drake like this, but she knew to save herself (and to save her the embarrassment of knowing how he’d react if he knew how she felt) she had to find a way out of the woods and then out of Cordonia, for good.

Just then, a rustling in the bushes startled her. She adjusted her glasses on her nose and stayed still. She heard the rustling again and this time saw the bush move. Charlotte was breathing faster and faster; she closed her eyes hoping not to hear anything again but she couldn’t help herself from letting out a loud scream when she saw an animal dart out from under the bush. “AAAHHHHH!” Her scream echoed into nature as a gray squirrell ran off chattering across the grass.

“Make it a habit to scare the native wild-life, Westbrook?” She jumped up off the tree stump and spun around quickly.

She could hardly contain her excitement at seeing Drake standing there. With his signature smirk, arms folded across his chest, smug and satisfied with himself.

He was holding a red leash, attached to a black lab. Charlotte had never seen the dog before, but he was clearly trying to make his way over to her. Panting. Struggling to try and pull Drake towards her.

“Maxwell didn’t educate you on the native Douglas squirrel? That’s the national squirrel of Cordonia. Once a year there’s a ceremony where we honor the squirrel and he gets a little crown and a robe, it’s really great…It’s your next social so you should probably get a new dress. But I’d stay away from anything with fur…” Drake was quite pleased with himself and couldn’t stifle a laugh.

“Ha ha. VERY funny.” Charlotte retorted, rolling her eyes. How am I going to get out of this? I’m so thankful he’s here but what do I say? What do I do now? She cursed herself for ever leaving her room.

“What are you doing out here?” Both she and Drake asked the question of the other at the same time.

“I’m taking Max here for a walk.” Drake said as he crouched down and petted the dog. “Good boy. Sit.” He said softly as he stood back up.

“And before you ask, yes, he’s named after Maxwell. It’s supposedly his claim to fame. He’s still acts like a puppy even though he’s 4 years old…so a lot like Maxwell.” He joked and rolled his eyes, then focused again on Charlotte.

“You’re really lucky I found you.” Drake started. “You could have been eaten alive out her by ya know, ferocious squirrels or something.” After saying that, he realized Charlotte didn’t seem to be herself.

“Charlotte. What’s going on?”

He looked her up and down and had to tell himself for the millionth time that she was off limits. He had never seen her without make up, or with her glasses on. How have I missed this? He asked himself. How is it possible that she looks even better than she does every other regular day? He shook his head, trying not to lose focus, and went to her.

Charlotte was shivering in the cold night air as she tried to explain herself “I…I went for a run…and just got a little turned around, I guess…” She shrugged, somewhat embarrassed.

“You’re not as turned around and you think.” He explained. “You’re actually very close to the castle – it’s just on the other side of those trees.” Drake said, gently. He could sense something was up. “Are you sure you’re okay?”

“I’m fine.” Charlotte responded, tersely. “Can you show me the way?” She was anxious to get back inside and away from him.

“Not until you tell me why you’re really out here.” He took off his jacket and handed it to her. “Take this.”

Charlotte felt tears stinging her eyes again. It had been a day and she was not ready for this. Not ready to talk. Especially not to him. About anything. Especially not her feelings.

“It’s nothing and…thanks…for the jacket…” She paused, before slipping it on over her shoulders. She began to pace, walking around the clearing in the woods, trying to drum up either enough courage to be honest, or at least buy herself enough time to think of a lie about what was really going on with her.

“Westbrook.” Drake called out to her while her back was turned towards him. “Stop.”

She started to cry for what felt like the thousandth time that day, hearing him talk to her. She couldn’t help it any more. All the emotion, all the stress, all the frustration and confusion, she couldn’t keep it inside around him anymore.

“Why are you walking away from me?” Drake questioned, confused, wanting to hug her, to kiss her, to tell her everything would be okay. He tied Max’s leash to a nearby tree as his thoughts overwhelmed him.

He wanted to be with her, but he couldn’t do that to Liam. Did Liam even love her? He had so many beautiful women to choose from. Couldn’t Drake get the girl for once?

But really, who was he kidding? He had barely touched as much as her hand since she’d been in his life, yet everything in him wanted all of her in more ways than one.

As her silence continued, Drake walked towards her. Her back still facing him, he clenched his fists, then put his hands up on his head, thinking quickly about what he should do. He knew what the right thing to do was, but that’s not what he wanted. And he didn’t think it was what she wanted either.

Biting his lip, he put his hands back down to his side, only an inch or two from her. He could smell her perfume as the wind picked up. He closed his eyes and thought back to that night when they laid in the snow together under the stars. That was when he knew he was falling for her.

Charlotte’s shoulders shook as the tears kept coming. She wiped at her eyes furiously, taking her glasses off for a moment to try to dry her face. She didn’t want Drake to see her like this.

“Charlotte…” Drake grabbed her by the shoulders and spun her around quickly, to face him, as he realized she was crying. She dropped her glasses as the force of Drake spinning her, made her lose her balance slightly. “I’m meant to go, Drake…I…I have to leave…I shouldn’t be here…”

Drake and Charlotte were staring deeply into each other’s eyes, his hands were still on her arms, his thumbs swirling in circles on hers, trying to keep her warm. He didn’t realize what he was doing or what she was saying. He was only focused on one thing.

He reached for her face and held her cheek in the palm of his hand while the other arm snaked behind her, around her waist. He leaned in for a deep and passionate kiss, while stepping forward slightly, to press her body up against his.

Without thinking, she wrapped her arms around him too and gave in to his kiss with fresh tears still making their way down her face. She rested her forehead against his as she tried to catch her breath. She was in disbelief, adding this to one more crazy thing that happened to her this day.

“I’m sorry…” Drake whispered.

“I’m not.” She smiled up at him, unsure of what to do or say next.

“No, I’m not sorry for the kiss…” He sighed, looking away. “I’m pretty sure I broke your glasses…” He lifted his foot and picked up Charlotte’s glasses, the frame now bent and the lens broken.

“Oh no! Drake!” She reached out and held her glasses in her hands, sighing angrily. “Ugh!”

“It was worth it.” He smirked as he pulled her in close again. “Now what was this about you leaving?” He questioned, resting his chin on her head as he hugged her.

“Drake. You know we can’t do this. We can’t be together. You’re Liam’s friend, I’m supposed to be his queen…but I don’t…” She trailed off.

“You don’t want to be with me? Did I misread the signs? The signals? Dammit, Westbrook if you’re playing me, I swear I’ll…” She interrupted his rant with another kiss, this one more passionate and filled with emotion than the first.

“Does that answer your question?” She asked breathlessly, as she pulled away from him.

“Then why are you leaving?” He searched her eyes hoping for an answer that made sense.

“Really? You’re asking me that? Don’t you get it? I have to go! I don’t love Liam. I never will. We aren’t meant to be together and I can’t fake it. Especially while I’m here. And you’re here. It’s too dangerous and difficult for me to try to hide what I’m really feeling. People will be hurt. They already ARE hurt. I’m leaving tomorrow. I already told Maxwell and Bertrand. Everyone will know by morning.”

“How are you going to leave? Just hop on a flight back to New York? You think it’s that simple, huh?”

“Yeah. Why not? You got any other ideas?” She asked, exasperated, looking around as she heard a coyote or a wolf or something howl in the distance.

“Cordonia doesn’t even have a real airport, Charlotte.” Drake huffed, getting angry. “This is not New York City. You can’t just run away from all your problems by getting out of town, you know.”

“Forget it. You don’t understand. This is a mistake. Just take me back to the castle!” Charlotte said, raising her voice.

“Please. It’s getting cold, and late and I need to finish packing.” She started walking.

She took a few steps in silence, obviously annoyed.

“Wrong way.” Drake stood still, watching her.

“Why won’t you help me?!” She asked, finally reaching her breaking point.

“Look – I didn’t mean to fall in love with you. I’m sorry if this ruins your plan. I know you think I’m shallow and weak and would do anything to be a part of this royal family here, but you don’t know me!” She said forcefully.

“Do your glasses help you think? Maybe you should put them back on and see…” He walked towards her again, smiling.

“I AM going to help you, if you would calm down and listen for a second. WE are going to go back to the castle, find Liam and talk to him. Together. Then we will find a way to get back to New York, or anywhere else it is you want to go. You won’t be alone. Ever again if I can help it. We’ll do all of this with each other. Side by side.”

“Drake…I, I don’t know how this happened…just…all at once…everything’s different…” She whispered, but smiled looking at him.

“Are you smiling too? I can’t see. Without my glasses or contacts I’m blind as a bat.” She laughed, quietly.

“I’m smiling.” He chuckled. “You may not be able to see me…but I see you. And you’re beautiful. I’ve waiting too long to say that.“

He kissed her quickly and took her hand. “Come on, let’s get Max and go find Liam…” He untied the dog and led them all out of the woods. Together they walked back to the castle hand in hand as Charlotte rested her head on Drake’s shoulder.

[wulfies-corner]

Bad Boy (High School AU)

Kwon Jiyong was the ultimate bad boy, the most popular kid in school, and a huge player. (Y/N), on the other hand, considered herself to be on the complete opposite side of the spectrum, unnoticeable. However, she remains oblivious to the fact that Jiyong only ever had his eyes on her.

How could you describe Kwon Jiyong?

He was everything. Jiyong was nothing short of a lion. He was a trendsetter. When Jiyong shaved the side of his head in the 9th grade, nearly everyone followed along in the weeks after. When he dyed his hair, you saw different people the very next day with equally crazy colours in their hair. When Jiyong started to wear black-rimmed work boots, everyone suddenly started wearing them too.

Jiyong was arguably the most popular guy in school, having his own set of blonde-hair-blue-eye groupies and everything in between. Everyone begged for invitations to his legendary parties, and everyone wanted to be his friend. Girls wanted to date him even though he was one of the biggest players anyone had ever seen. While you didn’t want to admit that you were one of those girls, you couldn't deny it, either.

Even if Kwon Jiyong was the epitome of a bad boy, you still loved him.

How could you describe yourself? You were nothing.

You were a mouse. You would never follow any trends, wearing only hugely baggy sweaters and straight cut jeans, sticking to wearing themed high top shoes since even before the 9th grade. You left your hair in its normal pixie cut when Jiyong set the hair trends, going against the sea of people that began to sport sickly yellows and too-bright pinks. You considered yourself to be the least popular girl in the whole school. Nobody invited you to parties, and nobody wanted to date you.

You were the epitome of a good girl, an antisocial nerd. Above all, you were completely oblivious to the fact that Jiyong only ever had his eyes on you.

~

“Hey (Y/N), are you going to prom?”

You snapped out of your thoughts. Sitting beside you was your best friend, Rhiannon. She was your complete opposite. Outgoing, beautiful, witty and confident. How she stayed your friend all the way from the 1st grade was a complete mystery to you. Rhiannon was the link that dragged you into Jiyong’s friend group when she and Daesung started dating in the 9th grade. Every year the two were voted ‘best couple’ in the yearbook, and for good reason. It was often that you felt sick from the amount of sugar the two projected when they were together.

While you considered Daesung and the others to be your friends, you were often too shy to talk to them on your own. There was also the added stress of Jiyong's apparent indifference toward you. You never outwardly pined for his attention, but you were still jealous of whoever happened to be on Jiyong's arm every week.

“I don’t know, honestly. I don’t see the point,” you reply, looking up at the board and continuing to copy down the note being written by the teacher, who was so absorbed in their work that they didn’t notice that you and Rhiannon had started talking.

“Of course there’s a point,” Rhiannon exclaimed. “Jiyong will be there!”

You sigh. “Why are you so obsessed with him?”

“I want you guys to date! It’s sooooo obvious that you still like him! Come on, please. For me?”

“You just want someone to double date with. It's no secret that both you and Daesung hate Taeyang’s girlfriend.” You roll your eyes.

Rhiannon nodded shamelessly. “That still doesn’t change the fact that you’ve had a crush on Jiyong since grade 7.”

“And that doesn’t change the fact that he’s a major player,” you protest. “If he actually did ask me out, we’d last less than a week before I’d catch him with Tanya or some other girl that's prettier than me.”

“Come oooooon, what makes you think that he’d do that to you?” Rhiannon whined. “He does it to everyone else. I’m no different, probably worth less than everyone he’s ever been with. I’ve never been invited to any parties, I haven’t even had a complete conversation him since we were paired together for the science fair in grade 9, and even then he was too busy scrolling through his phone to do any work!”

“(Y/N)...” She groaned. “Don’t talk about yourself like that. People change. Besides, you hate parties. You never let us invite you.”

“Ugh, just drop it, Rhiannon! Jiyong doesn’t like me, and you can’t convince me to do something stupid in front of him! Leave it!” You shout, causing everyone to turn and look at you, even the teacher. Rhiannon recoiled backwards in her chair, surprised at your outburst.

“Keep it down in here!” Your teacher scolded, turning back to the board once as you turned away from him. Tears welled up in your eyes from embarrassment and humiliation, something that would definitely turn Jiyong away. He only wanted confident girls.

Rhiannon remained silent for the rest of the period, and unbeknownst to you, she had a plan formulating in her head. She would tell Daesung about it at lunch.

~ “Look, Daesung, I appreciate the offer, but I don’t think I need you,” Jiyong commented as they walked home from school, setting a quick pace in the hopes that the group of girls behind them would eventually stop following. Jiyong didn’t have time for them anymore. Any other day, Jiyong would have found it exhilarating to turn around and watch them fawn over the smallest smirk or wink, but all he wanted now was to fawn over the smallest smile from you.

“Yes, you do! (Y/N) doesn’t think she’s worth enough to even be friends with you. She has a confidence level below zero. What makes you think that she knows you like her? If anything, she’ll only think you’ll be there to play her without us to help you.”

Jiyong scoffed. “Nobody else has cared about that before.”

“There’s always a first for everything. Come on, Rhiannon’s in on this too. You can only do this if we help you.”

“I already told you, I don’t need it.”

“Sure you don’t. Fine, whatever, you can try to get her on your own, but don’t come crying to me when she thinks she’s not good enough for you and thinks you’re joking.”

“What makes you think she would think that?” “Ok,” Daesung started sarcastically, “you must really be naive. How often do you catch her looking at you to only have her turn away before you can smile at her? How often do you see her standing at her locker, waiting for you to walk by after school, only to run away before you can approach her? How often do you work up the courage to talk to her, but never do it because you're afraid of facing your first rejection?”

“All the time,” Jiyong answered with an exasperated sigh, opting to look at the pavement of the sidewalk instead of Daesung.

“See? Now, are you going to get in on this or not?” Daesung asked, pulling out his phone to text Rhiannon.

“Fine. What do you have in mind?”

~ The next morning when you arrived at school through the front doors, keeping your earbuds in as you walked to your locker. You hadn't slept well the night before, so you were not in the mood to listen to other people. You arrived at your locker, opening it up and collecting your English binder, stuffing it in your backpack as you nodded your head to GOT7. You were lost in your own little world until you closed your locker door, revealing Daesung and scaring the daylights out of you.

You yelped in surprise, eyes wide with shock. You paused your music and dropped your backpack, clutching the fabric of your sweater over your chest. Daesung only smiled charmingly at you in return, rubbing the back of his head bashfully.

“Morning, (Y/N),” he greeted, patting your shoulder. “I really got you there! I'm sorry.”

You sigh. “It's okay. If you're looking for Rhi, she won't be here til later.” You silently hoped he would leave you alone. After being scared like that, you didn’t exactly want to have any social interaction.

“I know, she texted me. I came to talk to you.”

“What? Why?” You ask, confused.

“Well, for one, we’re friends, so why wouldn't I want to talk to you, and second - I wanted to extend an invitation to Jiyong’s place tonight. His parents are away on another business trip for the weekend, so all of us are gonna order pizzas and maybe dance a bit to some good tunes, you know, just the seven of us, if you want. We’re not inviting Hana, so you don't have to worry about her.”

‘Of course, you wouldn't invite Tae’s girlfriend. I know that they're fighting,’ you mumble in your thoughts. You raised your eyebrows at him. “You really want me to come? To a party?”

Daesung shook his head. “It's not a party.”

“If it's not a party, then why are you asking me and not Jiyong?” You place your hands on your hips. Then again, you thought, maybe Daesung asking instead would be better, considering that Jiyong never looked your way.

Daesung paused. He thought for a moment. He didn't want you to think that Jiyong was avoiding you, he was just too shy to ask, which was an indeed surprising feat considering the image he put out.

“It doesn't matter. Just don't tell anyone else about it, okay? We don't want anyone else showing up.”

“Um… Okay?”

Daesung grinned toothily at you. “Okay, see you tonight!”

Daesung disappeared into the depths of the hall shortly after, leaving you to wallow in a confused haze. Shaking your head, you picked up your backpack and closed the door to your locker completely, walking back into the forum. There, you saw Jiyong, who was surrounded by a multitude of other girls. Jealousy welled up in your chest and you turned back around to take the long way to class instead.

As soon as you turned your back, you failed to notice Jiyong's gaze on you, trying to push back the crowd so he could run and catch up to your retreating form. But once again, you slipped through his fingers like fine sand.

~

After school, you walked home with Rhiannon, who was incredibly insistent that you dress up for the night at Jiyong's. She pushed past you and scrambled up to your room as soon as you unlocked the door.

“Don't you want to win him over with your stellar good looks?” Rhiannon asked excitedly as she rummaged through your closet. You sat on your bed helplessly, watching Rhiannon tear through your closet to try and find something that wasn't a black hoodie, which were most of the clothes you owned in general.

“Good looks?” You question. “Who do you think I am?”

“I think you're (Y/N),” she answered with a sly grin. “You're super adorable, you just need the right clothes.”

“Yeah, because the right clothes will fix my stomach pudge and huge thighs,” you counter sarcastically.

“Aw, come on!! You need to strut your stuff. Guys like thighs.” She finally pulled out a shirt from your closet. It was the loose fitting Reaper shirt you bought off the Blizzard store a while back. You loved Overwatch and had an impressive SR, at least for a Reaper main that was still in high school. You often thought about signing up for the Overwatch league, whenever it was supposed to come out. A lot of your Twitch followers insisted that you did.

The shirt had wide elbow length sleeves and the seams of the shirt were rippled. It was the perfect shirt for a slightly bigger girl like you, but you almost never wore it.

“What makes you think that Jiyong will even look at me, to begin with? I mean, what's the point of dressing up?”

“Oh believe me,” she started. “He’ll notice you. Ah, this is perfect!” Rhiannon exclaimed, tossing it to you. “Do you have any mini shorts?”

“Again. Who do you think I am?” You ask. Mini shorts? On your legs? Yeah right.

“Ugh, come on! You'll look so cute in them!” Rhiannon moved to the other side of the room to start digging in her purse.

‘Oh no,’ you thought. Soon enough, Rhiannon pulled out a pair of high-waisted dark blue mini shorts decorated with a multitude of gold coloured buttons. “Rhi, I can just wear jea-”

“Put these on! They're your size.” You reluctantly took the bottoms from her, slipping out of your school clothes and into the outfit Rhiannon put together for you. You inwardly cursed yourself for giving away your pant size the last time the two of you went shopping. Once you buttoned up the crotch of your pants, Rhiannon moved to fluff out your shirt with a grin.

“Are you sure this is necessary?” You ask when you looked into your full-length mirror. It had been so long since you had worn anything other than jeans and your black sweater. You looked at yourself and huffed, pulling the bottoms of your shorts down.

“Of course it is! Jiyong is going to realise how hot you are! Much more than the other girls. How do you feel?” Rhiannon countered your move by holding the upper hem of your shorts and pulling them back up to where they were supposed to sit.

You turned slightly to look at the curvature of your backside. You had to admit that wearing these clothes brought your spirits up. You actually did look cute in this outfit. “I feel… good.”

Rhiannon cheered. “Yes! Now, all we need is a touch of makeup-” she began to rummage through her purse again.

“Rhiannon, no.”

“Rhiannon yes!”

~

“Woah, our Jiyong is finally gonna get the girl~” Taeyang sang cheerfully as the four friends fawned over Jiyong. He stood by the mirror in his bathroom with a towel over his head, recently having washed the excess dye from his newly coloured hair.

“Shut up, Youngbae,” Jiyong muttered, vigorously drying his hair.

“Why should he? I mean, you're going to so many lengths to impress her! (F/C) hair? Isn't that a bit obvious?” Seunghyun commented, leaning against the doorframe to the sizeable bathroom.

“Aw, give him a break. This is the first time he’s actually had to put in any effort to get the girl,” Seungri defended, crossing his arms. “He's never had to do any of the whole courting thing.”

“Not helping, Seungri,” Jiyong commented, removing the towel and taking up a brush to get the tangles out of his hair.

“I think this is good,” Taeyang added. “I mean, that girl is bright but completely oblivious to him. These hints might help her along, although…”

“I'm kind of concerned that she will think this is all a joke,” Daesung completed Taeyang’s thought. “I mean, is this really the best plan?”

“Doubting your dear beloved girlfriend, are you, Daesung?” Seunghyun asked with a smirk.

“No!” Daesung defended. “I don't doubt it, I'm just afraid that (Y/N) will take it the wrong way.”

“It's too late to change any of it now,” Taeyang said, pointing at Daesung’s phone as it lit up with a text from Rhiannon. “They're on their way here.”

Jiyong sighed, exasperated. “Then all of you need to scram! Get the door when they show.”

“Did you remember to get cranberry juice? Rhiannon says it’s (Y/N)’s favourite,” Daesung asked.

“Yes, I got the juice, I got her favourite chips and the tulips are in a vase in the kitchen. Don't worry, guys. I've got this,” Jiyong reassured.

~

You muttered to yourself nervously and picked at the cuticle of your left thumb as you and Rhiannon approached Jiyong's house. It was maybe twice the size of your place at least, and you could definitely see his parents’ wealth even more in his home than his extremely lavish clothes.

“Don't pick at your nails,” Rhiannon scolded as the two of you walked up the path to Jiyong’s front door. “You'll ruin your nail polish.”

“I didn't want to wear nail polish,” you protest.

“It completed your look! Come on, you've got to doll up at least a little bit.”

“But I still don't see the point! I mean, there’s a 95% chance that he will have another girl there with him. All I'll do is stand around saying nothing until you forget I'm here and then I'll just end up going home.”

“Then why did you agree to come?” Rhiannon asked, ringing the doorbell, you falling behind and standing at the steps to the porch.

“Because,” you sigh, “even if I'm jealous, I still want to see him and hope on that 5% chance that he will see me, just once.”

~

“They're here,” Taeyang called. Daesung and Seunghyun went to open the door, while Jiyong stood in the kitchen with Taeyang and Seungri, pacing.

“It's gonna be fine,” Seungri said. “You were fine 10 minutes ago.”

“I know, but… what if she never even looks at me? She never does anymore.”

Taeyang scoffed loudly. “Hah! Yeah right. She’s always looking at you. Ever since middle school. You've just been too busy holding up your rich and suave image to notice.”

“Don't put yourself in a bad mood. If I know anything about (N/N), she's going to need a lot of reassurance.” Seungri said, patting Jiyong on the shoulder.

Once you and Rhiannon were situated with the guys in a wonky circle on the floor in the living room, Seunghyun had already downed a beer. You sat next to Seungri and Taeyang with a cup of cranberry juice, surprised but happy that Jiyong had any of it in the first place.

“Let’s play a game!” Rhiannon exclaimed, pulling a metal water bottle from her purse. You eyed her with a curious look. That gesture could only mean trouble.

“What game?” Daesung asked. Rhiannon turned to him and whispered something in his ear. They both smiled slyly and Rhiannon placed the bottle in the middle of the circle.

“7 minutes in heaven.”

Everyone didn't seem opposed to the idea except for you. You looked over at Jiyong, who had surprisingly been quiet all night. He seemed nervous and was looking past you at the couch you were leaning against. It was a complete 180-degree turn to how you saw him act normally.

“7 minutes in heaven?” You exclaim. “That's something 7th graders play! Can’t we just watch Into the Badlands or something?”

“We can spice it up a bit, then,” Taeyang countered. He seemed adamant that you all played. “We’ll set up rules to make it less like the ‘7th grader’ version.” Everyone looked at you, even Jiyong. You sigh. “Come on, is that what you all really want to do?” You didn’t want to sound rude, but this wasn’t exactly something you were planning on doing tonight. Everyone nodded their heads at your question.

“What are the rules going to be?” Seunghyun asked.

“You spin the bottle like any other game. Whoever the bottle points to is who you have to spend the time with alone. You will be locked in Jiyong’s room for 1 hour. The lights need to at least be dark or dim, to set the mood. You have to talk, so no silence! You need to kiss at least once, you can do whatever your mind decides other than that. We’ll know if any of you lie about it.” Rhiannon explained with a suspicious smile. You narrowed your eyes at her. There was something going on behind the scenes.

“Ok everyone, hands on your knees, don’t move them,” Daesung said, looking at Rhiannon and waiting for the following nod. Everyone placed their hands on their knees. You did so reluctantly, remembering the chrome polish attached to your nails.

“JiJi, why don’t you go first~” Rhiannon called teasingly, jabbing his ribs with her elbow. You raised your eyebrows at them as Jiyong promptly spun the bottle. The bottle spun quickly past everyone a few times, and you noticed quickly that each time the bottle passed you, it would slow down a little bit.

You bit at your cheek and hoped nobody else realised that your nail polish was magnetic. You knew that Rhiannon had done your nails for a reason: it was to get you and Jiyong together alone. You didn’t know if you were angry or thankful of her creative and sly planning that most certainly involved Daesung at one point. Everyone’s eyes were on you in a knowing manner, making you even more nervous. You and Jiyong finally made complete eye contact when the nose of the bottle stopped at you. His eyes widened for a moment, but he relaxed again when Rhiannon whispered something in his ear.

“Whooo, (Y/N) and Jiyong are first!” Taeyang exclaimed. “Up you go! Go on!”

“I’ll go wait for you,” Jiyong finally spoke. “It’s the first room on the left up the stairs.” He then stood up and jogged into the kitchen.

You were still going through the process of shock, having figured out Rhiannon’s plot to either get you and Jiyong to hook up or to embarrass you in front of your friends, who you were already shy enough around. You only snapped out of it when Taeyang patted your shoulder.

“Go get him, tiger!” Seungri called with a grin.

You scanned the circle of you friends as you stood, silently absorbing their excited facial expressions when you stalked out of the room and started climbing up the stairs.

‘You'll pay for this eventually, Rhiannon.’

When you walked into Jiyong's room, you noticed that he wasn't there yet. You sighed dejectedly, guessing that you would have to spend the hour on your own. You took a seat on Jiyong’s bed, deciding that you would nap for the hour and just say that he bailed when everyone came upstairs later. You got comfortable, lying on your stomach with your cheek resting against one of Jiyong’s pillows, taking in his smell. The lavish comfort of the silk sheets was the last thing on your mind as you instead imagined waking up in this bed every morning next to Jiyong.

You jumped up into a sitting position when you heard the door close. In what little light was left, you saw Jiyong standing at the other side of the room, hiding something behind his back. You stared at him with wide eyes, your arms moving to sit in your lap.

“Were you going to just take a nap?” Jiyong asked, and you could hear a dejected tone in his voice. Boy, was he being dramatic.

“Um, no?” You tried to look at what Jiyong was hiding from you.

“That hurts, you know.” He commented. You raised your eyebrows at him.

‘That hurts? He should try loving someone that doesn’t notice him,’ your thoughts hiss.

Jiyong stepped forward when you didn’t respond aloud. “I like your outfit,” he complimented.

“You don’t need to compliment me, Jiyong. This is just some stupid game Rhiannon’s trying to play. You don’t have to go along with it. Just kiss me and we can do something else until time runs out.”

“I know what Rhiannon’s getting at. The magnetic nail polish was a nice touch,” he added, looking at your fingernails. “I want to compliment you. After all, I was the one that went along with the idea.”

That sentence shocked you to your core. Did he know about this all along? Was this some sort of joke? Tears welled up in your eyes.

“This is all some… late April fool’s day joke,” you mumble. “Why in the world would you want to participate in all that?”

“I think you know the reason. You just don’t want to believe it,” Jiyong countered. He moved from the entrance to his room toward you, bringing a bouquet of red tulips out from behind his back. They’re your favourite flowers. How did he know? Did Rhiannon tell him? You were speechless as you took the flowers. You had never seen Jiyong make gestures like that before in all the years you’ve known him.

“It took so long to finally get you to look at me. I figured out most of the things about you on my own, but I got some help from Rhiannon to get everything in place. I just didn’t know that she would lock us in my room.”

“Get me to look at you? Jiyong, I’ve been looking your way since middle school. It’s you that never looks at me. I was never good enough for you. What do you want? Am I the last girl you need to date before you say you’ve dated them all? Was it a dare?” You placed the flowers down gently on Jiyong’s night stand.

“What? No! (Y/N), I’ve liked you since  Mrs Prentice made us sit together half way through grade 7.”

You furrowed your eyebrows at him. “Then… then why did you put out this… fuckboy image? Why did you never talk to me?”

“Because I was afraid of getting rejected. I don’t know if you’ve noticed, but you have this… aura. The only person you’ll talk to without being forced is Rhiannon. If Rhiannon and Daesung were up here instead of us, would you have talked to me?” Jiyong asked.

“I.. I don’t know. At times, I think that you’ve forgotten that I exist. I was surprised that you knew anything about me at all. Cranberry juice and red tulips…”

“I also have ketchup chips in the kitchen,” he added.

“How do you know all this?” You wonder. Jiyong sat next to you on his bed.

“Well, I asked Rhiannon about your favourite flowers, but you always have a cup of cranberry juice when you stream, and often a bag of ketchup chips.”

“You… watch me stream?” You were taken aback. Your channel was quite small still, only getting about 30-40 people watching it each time you broadcast. You had one fan, by the username G_DRAGON88, that constantly talked to you and showed up for nearly every stream you did. They were pretty good and Lucio and Soldier 76, and participated in every fan custom match stream you set up on Saturdays. You considered them a good friend and told them a lot about yourself that you mostly kept in the back of your brain. It was also quite often when you would vent to them about Jiyong and how jealous you were of other girls, in the confidence that they were an anonymous person and would have no reason to spill your secrets.

“Yeah, I’m G_DRAGON88.”

Your eyes widened. You had been telling 95% of your secrets to your crush. He knew all about how much you liked him, your insecurities, everything. Nearly all your regular viewers ‘shipped’ you and G_DRAGON88 because of how close the two of you seemed.

“I feel like I’m going to pass out,” you mumble. Your body froze up, thinking about all the instant messages you sent to Jiyong thinking he was someone completely different. G_DRAGON88 was sweet and adoring. They gave you multitudes of advice, but you hardly ever followed through with any of it. They were half the reason you kept streaming at all, especially with how many chores you had to do at home. G_DRAGON88 never revealed their name or gender to you, and when you played viewer custom matches, they never joined the voice channels. Now you knew why.

“I'm sorry if it's a little shocking,” Jiyong sighed, smiling at you. “Please don't pass out.”

“I've been telling my crush everything,” you whisper to yourself.

“Hey, at least you're relatively innocent,” he reassured, placing his hand over yours.

You looked up at Jiyong. “Why do you like me in the first place? I mean, I'm completely different from all the other girls you've dated… here I am dressed in a friggin’ Reaper shirt and a pair of mini shorts that make my thunder thighs look even wo-”

Jiyong cut you off by pressing his lips to yours briefly.

“I like you because you're unique. You dress the way you want, you don't care about what other people think, and you're honestly quite funny. You're a bit shy, but I like that.”

You blush at his explanation. You could see the sweet side of him now that you knew. Anything he projected at school was completely different than he really was.

“I even think your thighs are perfect.” He commented, playfully resting his chin on your shoulder, donning a cheesy smile.

“So let me get this straight. You..” You point at Jiyong and then to yourself, “like me.”

Jiyong chuckled. “Yep, that's the gist of it.”

“And you've known that I've liked you for…”

“You told me two years ago after I started watching your twitch channel.”

“Holy crap…” You mumble. “Do you know how embarrassing that is?”

“A little bit, but you've got nothing to be ashamed of.”

“Less talking, more kissing!” You heard a voice shout from the other side of the door. Rhiannon was eavesdropping on you.

“Gimme a minute,” you growl to Jiyong, standing up as he nodded with a knowing grin. “RHIANNON!” You shout, hearing her squeal and scramble away from the door as you opened it and began to chase her. You caught her back in the living room where the rest of the guys were still talking, pinned her down and began to mercilessly tickle her.

“(Y/N)!! Stoooop!” She blurted out through pained laughs. “Help me, Daeeee!”

Seunghyun and Seungri were laughing hysterically as they watched you, and Daesung looked on, unsure of what to do.

“This was all you!!” You accused through Rhiannon’s laughter. “How long have you been planning this?!”

“Long enough for it to work!! Daeeee!!! Get her off meeeeeee!!”

Daesung at this point was inching away, fearful that your wrath would turn to him. The only reason you stopped was Jiyong’s hand on your shoulder.

“I think she at least deserves some credit, (Y/N)... I mean… she’s the reason this happened.” Finally releasing your onslaught, you gave Rhiannon enough time to catch her breath.

“You’re so hostile, (Y/N)! Torturing your best friend when she finally gets you together with your crush! Just in time for Prom, too.” She whined, wriggling out from underneath you and scrambling into Daesung’s arms.

“Alright, fine,” you concede. “Thank you, just… don’t ever do something like that to me again.”

~3 Years Later, At Blizzcon~

You laughed along with your viewers as you were invited by Rhiannon into a custom match. It was your turn to stream from the panel all the way at Blizzcon, trying to shake away your nerves for the upcoming Overwatch World Cup finals. Your team had worked incredibly hard to get to where you were, and your Twitch viewership has grown exponentially since you made it into the top 100.

Rhiannon was back home, and you had planned to do a joint stream with her. You accepted her request and turned your mic on, waiting to enter her custom match. The chatter around you created a different environment that you were used to, but it was still fun to look out on the crowd of people who were trying out all the different games. It still amazed you that you had gotten so far. You were finally a pro video game player, something you had dreamt of doing for a career since your mom bought you a Nintendo 64 when you were eight.

“2v4?” You ask curiously as you and Rhiannon were placed on the attacking side of Temple of Anubis, your favourite map. You selected Reaper (obviously) and went to head out of the spawn, but the doors were closed. On a skirmish?

“We have to wait, we’re still missing a few people,” Rhiannon explained, picking D.VA herself.

“Okay,” you sigh. For the next ten or so minutes, you waited in the spawn room with Rhiannon, spamming your emotes and voice lines at each other, trying your best to keep up with your quickfire viewers. Occasionally you would look down at your Overwatch chat feed to see if anyone else joined.

Mightypants has joined the match.

GDRAGON_88 has joined the match.

Jiyong? He told you that he was working today and would only be able to tune in on your final match later in the evening. You sigh as you notice that Rhiannon restarted the match, putting him on the opposite team. If he had time to play, why didn’t he tell you? You pushed it to the back of your head. No matter. If he had time now, you would cherish it.

Picking Reaper once more, you and Rhiannon were once again pitted only with each other against your friends and Jiyong. Everyone in your friend group had gotten into Overwatch at one point, playing quick matches with you and paying you in sweets to carry them through competitive.

Mightypants was Daesung, KillerPaint was Seunghyun and GoldHawk was Seungri. A few of your online friends, EpicSaxGuy and Seagull were also on the other team. Seagull was often mistaken for the pro player of the same name that you often played against, which made for some fun banter between your viewers. When you hit the tab button, you noticed that all of them had picked Symmetra except for Jiyong, who went with his usual pick of Soldier: 76.

Immediately you tried to run out of the spawn room, but Rhiannon was ahead of you, picking Mei and putting up her ice wall to block you.

“Okay,” you accuse, “what are you planning this time?” You weren’t going to let her beat around the bush if you could help it.

“Just wait a bit and find out,” was all Rhiannon told you, her voice in a playful tone. She sure had a way of dodging your suspicions. You tapped your foot impatiently against the floor, expressing your impatience to an increasingly curious audience.

“I know, guys,” you say into your mic, looking into the lens of your webcam. “It’s weird for me, too.”

When you were finally unleashed upon the map, you hurried along past the first point. Nobody was there. You turned around at the choke to look at Rhiannon’s Mei avatar.

“Teleport up onto the ledge on the left past the choke. Don’t fire at them.”

“Don’t fire? Who do you think I am?” You ask, to the delight of your viewers.

“Just do it!”

“Okay, guys, here we go, re-positioning,” you used Reaper’s teleport ability to get up on the sniping ledge, revealing five Symmetras surrounding a cluster of turrets in the shape of a heart. In the middle was a teleporter.

You raised an eyebrow at the sight, watching Jiyong’s Soldier: 76 come out of the teleporter. You used your ‘hello’ emote, silently watching the scene unfold in curiosity. Jiyong, in turn, used his ‘take a knee’ emote.

“Turn around,” Rhiannon called mischievously, failing to keep a long string of maniacal giggles in.

Your twitch chat lit up. “Turn around! Turn around!” Looking into the webcam feed on your stream, you noticed that someone had approached you, taking a knee once you spotted them. You swivelled your chair around, removing your headset and placing it over your shoulders. The whole area had gone at least a little bit quieter, and tears welled up in your eyes when you saw Jiyong, in the flesh, right in front of you. He was holding open a little box with a simple silver band with a small lapis lazuli embedded at the top.

“Will you marry me?”

Kwon Jiyong, the ultimate bad boy, who you thought would never even lay his eyes on you, was asking you to marry him. The bad boy who you had come to love even more than you thought you ever would, was asking you to marry him. Jiyong, who you saw grow into a sweet, caring man from a reckless playboy, wanted to share his life with you.

At Blizzcon.

Before you achieved your ultimate dream of competing. What else could you say?

“Yes!” You jumped up from your chair to hug Jiyong, barely letting him slip the ring onto your finger. Behind you, your stream was scrolling upwards faster than ever with a number of crazed responses. From your headphones were faint sounds of your friends cheering. From the gaming platform below you, a small crowd had gathered, surrounding your Overwatch team, clapping and letting out cheerful ‘whoops!’.

The moment you saw Jiyong, you knew that you wouldn’t lose the tournament. You were about to become the best Reaper in the world, and nothing was going to stop you with Jiyong at your side.

[if-i-want-to-dance]

His Pawn to Play

Chapter 13

"Why do you even want her to stay anyway?" Mage crossed his arms, eyes following Hana as she walked to the door, waving goodbye. "I want her to stay because she's a better treasurer than Shiki is. If she does a better job, this student council will run more efficiently, and we'll have more time to search for the Grimoire while maintaining our cover. She's smart enough to do a good job, but not smart enough to figure out what's going on." Rem pushed back the chair from his desk. "Now, I have some work to do. If anyone asks where I am, tell them I went home for the day. Oh, Urie, wait for a moment, I need to talk to you for a minute." Urie walked to the desk. "I need to talk to a girl I think is one of your butterflies. Nanami... I don't remember her first name." Urie considered for a moment. "Are there a few named Nanami?" "Not exactly. But there's so many that I can't always match the face to the name..." "That's why you call them all Butterfly?" Urie looked offended. "All of my butterflies are special, but when there's a lot of them having a single nickname helps. But yes, I remember a Nanami. Long hair, quite slender, a small birthmark on her jaw?" "That's the one. Tell her you want to meet her here to tell her something, immediately. I need to talk to her and I don't want anyone to know that we were involved." "Has my butterfly done anything wrong?" "She was the one who put glass in Hana's shoes. I can't allow someone who behaves like that to go unpunished, can I?" "You were happy enough with it when she did so." "Be that as it may." Urie raised his eyebrows. "Oh, I see what's happened." "What's that supposed to mean?" "Nothing. Nanami will be here in ten minutes." He left the room with a smirk. Rem sighed and returned to his work. For a girl who initially made such a bad impression, she rather impressed him. Her work was far better than Shiki's had ever been - though mainly because Shiki's had been downright terrible. Now that the bullying had ended, she had visibly perked up. Her appearance was visibly nicer. Not that she could have been called pretty or anything like that. The door swung open. Urie and the girl came into the room. "Right, Rem. I'll leave you to it then." The girl blinked in surprise. "Urie? What's going on?" He retreated without a word. "What is this?" Nanami glared at Rem and crossed her arms. "I have five people who saw you put glass into another student's shoes. Do you deny it?" "Isn't this the teachers' job?" Nanami backed towards the door. "Besides, those witnesses are all frauds. No one can prove I did that." "Yes. Your father donates a lot of money to the school and you threatened everyone who saw you. Do you know who else saw you? I did." A lie, of course, but the five witnesses were too afraid to come forward and it didn't matter anyway. "Why even ask if you've already decided I'm guilty?" "Because I thought I'd offer you a chance to apologize before I told you what was going to happen." Nanami snorted. "The stupid girl had it coming." The bullying had stopped the moment Rem had acknowledged her as a student council member. Hana wasn't universally hated by the other students - the bullying was from peer pressure and the other students' desire to look good. It hadn't helped that she didn't really socialize with the others, but that hadn't been the cause. Rem's grip on his pen tightened. "I won't hear you insult the intelligence of a member of my student council." "Oh, please. You didn't care a week ago, why would you care now? Why did you even let her onto the council anyway?" "That's none of your business, Nanami. You can consider yourself expelled." Nanami's jaw dropped. "Do you know who I am?" "Yes, and I know I can have you expelled. Now, go." Nanami's face paled. "You can't possibly think that they'll let you just expel me." "I've already taken care of it. But I could turn it into a suspension instead of explusion - in return for a favor." "What is it? Please, I can't be expelled." A proud princess moments before, now bowing to his manipulation. He held back a smirk. Checkmate. "Who else was responsible for harrassing her?" Names poured forth. The people who had stolen her shoes, ruined her desk, pushed and tripped her in the hall. Tears poured down Nanami's face as fast as the names from her mouth. She finally halted. "That's all the people I know. Please, don't get me expelled." "And who left the flower on her desk? Who was that?" She froze. "I... I thought that was the student council." "It wasn't. Now get out. I have to think about whether or not I'll have you expelled." She fled the room in tears. Rem allowed himself a smirk and studied the list he'd taken down from her barely coherent babbling. It was sufficient, though he'd still need to track down who had left the flower on her desk. Of course, Nanami would be the first to go. He couldn't allow her to stay near Hana if she hated her so much. She'd suffered enough.

"Is there any other business to be taken care of?" Rem pushed his book to the side, knowing already that they wouldn't. "Then we're dismissed."

Mage and Shiki made a break for the door. Of course. The two did everything possible to avoid work.

Hana stood and began to gather up the papers scattered over the table.

"Let me help you with that, lovely Butterfly." Urie began to stack everything neatly.

They both reached for the same paper, hands brushing.

Hana pulled her hand away. "Sorry." Her cheeks reddened. "You and Rem can go. I've got this."

"As my butterfly wishes." Urie left.

Rem stood and began to collect his own work.

"Do you have any plans for tonight?" Hana neatly stacked the rest of the papers.

"Not really. Do you?"

"A... doctor's appointment. That's all."

Rem frowned. "Are you feeling alright?"

"It's... I guess you could call it a check up more than anything else. Once a week." She glanced up at the clock. "Oh... just a second." She produced a canister of pills from her pocket and swallowed two dry. "Ugh.. sorry."

"You're sick."

"No, no." She blushed. "It's not like that at all."

A sick treasurer was no good to him. "What kind of doctor's appointments, Hana?"

"I don't want to talk about it." She picked up her backpack. "Sorry, I have to go."

Rem was across the room in a moment. He grabbed her arm, pulling her back a step. "What kind, Hana?"

"I said, I don't want to talk about it. My business, not yours." Her cheeks reddened."It is my business when you're on my student council.""Psychiatric, okay? I talk to a therapist once a week. Now please, I don't want to talk about it. It's my business."Rem let go of her arm. "I'm sorry. Is there anything - ""No!" She sprinted from the room, slamming the door behind herself.Rem returned to his desk. Most likely her parents had found out about the suicide attempt. Still, it was worth checking out.