#I'm dialling her up to 100 this time around

[albatris]

Riley Riley Riley Riley Riley

[caitwrites]

A Girl's Guide to End Rape Culture - Chapter 6

In the week after I agreed to join the band, we had been practicing so much, I could hear guitar chords playing in my head at night before I went to sleep.

It hadn't been all practice, though. Something was happening in the streets of Minnesota.

I first heard of the Riot Grrrl movement when I saw a newscaster talking about it on the small TV in my apartment. It started small, like a spark that wasn't extinguished quickly enough and soon caught the wind, spreading like wildfire.

I didn't know much about the movement, other than that it looked like a kind of feminist movement.

When I went to practice next, though, I was surprised that no one was talking about it, given how it had seemed like a popular topic.

Even the drummer, who was also a girl, didn't bring it up.

We went through some songs, practicing them until my throat was sore. At the end of practice, I decided to bring up the Riot Grrrl movement to see what the others thought.

"Hey, have you guys heard what's going on in town?"

Ian was the only one who looked at me. Perks of being the new girl, I supposed. "What's going on?"

"All that's going on with the Riot Grrrl movement."

"I hadn't heard of that."

"I don't know too much about it, just that it seems like a new feminist movement.

I thought I saw one of my band members roll his eyes, but I didn't give it any mind.

"That sounds interesting," Ian said, in a way that sounded like he wasn't sure what he thought of it.

"I thought so. It'll be cool seeing what happens with it."

No one said anything after, but when I started putting my things away again, I noticed the drummer send a small smile my way.

~

Leaving the studio, the streets looked the same as they always did, but there was something different. The air felt charged with a certain energy, something powerful, like change.

I took my phone out of my pocket and checked the time. It wasn't too late, I figured there was probably time to hang out with Lucas and Ani if they weren't busy.

I dialled Ani's number first, and she picked up on the second ring.

"Hey, what's up?" Her voice filled my ear.

"Did you wanna go out for a coffee? I'm gonna call Lucas and see if he can come too."

She groaned. "I'd love to, but I can't. I'm stuck studying for a test. You have fun with Lucas, though." I could practically hear her grinning.

"Okay," I said, though I probably sounded uncertain. Ever since Ani had found out about my feelings for Lucas, I had felt awkward talking about him.

"I should really keep studying, I'll talk to you later though."

"Okay, talk to you soon. Bye."

"Byee!"

I ended the call and dialled Lucas's number. He picked up on the first ring.

"Hey, Em. How's it going?"

"Good, I just finished band practice. I was wondering if you wanted to go get a coffee or something?"

I realized I could hear him doing something in the background.

"If you're busy though, it's no problem."

"No, no. We can hang out for a bit."

"You're sure?"

"100%."

"Okay. I was thinking we try out that new cafe, the one with all the art pieces."

"Yeah, that sounds good. I'll come pick you up shortly."

"Oh, you don't have to. I'm fine with walking."

"Don't be silly, it's no trouble."

"Okay. Well, thank you."

"Of course."

There was a silence on the phone for a minute or so, which I interrupted. "Um, okay. I'll see you soon. Bye."

"Bye, Em."

I ended the call and put my phone back in my pocket, allowing myself a small smile.

Even if I wouldn't let us be together, it was still nice having a crush on someone.

~

The cafe was fairly quiet for a Friday, and once we ordered our drinks, we found a booth in the corner.

"How was practice today?" Lucas asked, taking a sip of his coffee.

"Oh, it was good. It was a bit of a longer practice today, so I was a little tired after. Coffee's helping though."

He smiled. "That's good at least."

"Yeah. How was your day?"

"It was okay, I just had a class this morning and after I was just doing some cleaning around the house."

"Oh, is that what you were doing when I called?"

"Yeah, I'd let the house get a little messy and figured I had a mostly free day so I may as well clean a bit."

"Fair enough." I took a sip of my coffee. "Did you hear about what's going on in town? The Riot Grrrl movement?"

"Yeah, I did actually. I think it's great."

"What's it about? I haven't heard much about it, other than what I saw on TV. It looks like a kind of feminist movement."

"Yeah, it is. From what I heard, it's a movement that's meant to be addressing issues like patriarchy, gender inequality, and sexual assault. There's also been some bands that are using their music to address those issues."

"Wow, it would be cool to be a part of that."

"Maybe you can bring it up with your band."

"I brought up the movement today, they didn't seem too interested. Maybe they just didn't know a lot about it, though."

"Yeah, I would try learning more about it, and then try bringing it up again."

"That sounds like a good idea. I'm curious now, how did you hear about it?"

"Oh, just on the TV. I tried to research a bit more about it, though, and I talked to some people who seemed to have some ideas and thoughts on it."

"Oh, that's cool."

"Yeah, it'll be cool seeing what happens in the future with this. It feels like something that could be important in changing the way society is right now."

"It almost feels like we could be living in a history-changing moment ourselves."

He nodded. "Exactly."

[oetravia]

Every Brainia Scene Ever: 6x06 [5/16]

[devinescribe]

Back Then

Part 9 to '100 Promises'

Previous Chapter | Next Chapter

"Hey, call me back when you get this, or um... when you have a minute. I know you're busy, but... just... call me when you get the chance," your voice softly said through the phone. It sounded like you had been crying. He sighed, running a hand through his already messy hair. "Fuck... (Y/N). She really needs me right now, and I'm at work. Damn it," he cursed, leaning back in his chair.

You had to go up to Iwate, as your mother had called the night before in tears saying your grandmother had passed away. He knew how much pain you were in. You were always close to your grandmother. He quickly dialed your number, putting the phone up to hear ear, listening to it ring. He tapped his fingers on the desk anxiously, reading through the paper that explained the basis of what the game was so he could have a distraction. He heard you pick up. "H-hello?" You sniffled. "Hey (N/N), how are you holding up?" He asked. He heard you laugh softly. "Not well at all, if I'm being honest. I wish you were here with me," you said, your voice shaky. It pained him that he wasn't there. "I wish I was there to help you, but I really can't... I'm so sorry (Y/N)," he said. The door to the office opened, and he turned quickly, seeing his coworker. Niragi pointed to his phone in apology. " 'Ragi... can we video call later? Please?" You asked. "Yeah, yeah... we can do that. I'll call you later, I promise. I have to go though. I'm so sorry again (N/N)," he said, trying to excuse himself without sounding rude. "Ok... thanks for calling. I know you're at work, so thank you for making time for me... Bye, love you," you responded. He could hear the tears in your voice. "No problem. Love you too, bye," he responded(is that... weird? Because I do that my friends, and I just- I don't know-.) The line disconnected, and he dropped his head into his hands.

"That your girlfriend?" His coworker asked. He had forgotten they were in they room. Niragi lifted his head from his hands, and shook his head. "No. She's my friend," he responded. "Oh. You two much be close then?" His coworker questioned. Niragi nodded. "Did something happen? You seemed to be fustrated at something," they observed. "Oh, no.... it's just that her grandmother passed away, and she's... she's handling it. But, it's hard on her, as expected. She keeps saying how she wishes I was there to help her, but I really can't," Niragi explained. This coworker of his was one of the pleasant ones. One the ones who did their fair share of work, and wasn't annoying. So, by that logic, Niragi didn't mind them. "Oh... that sucks. My condolences to her..." they said sincerely. Niragi knew they didn't really know how to... people correctly. What that mean was, they were kind of awkward, but so was he. Maybe that's why they didn't really get in each other's way. "Maybe you could say it's a family emergency? If you're that close with her, of course." They suggested. They walked over to his messy desk, pointing at a picture. "Is that her?" They asked. Niragi nodded. "I think that was from... oh gods... two summers ago? Yeah..." he muttered. "I mean, it's probably not a good idea to lie to the boss, but if you're that worried, I think it's a justified lie," the said. Niragi nodded, but didn't say anything, getting lost in his thoughts.

"I um... I came to give you this. The client changed their mind about a few things," they said, placing a folder of papers down. "Oh you've got to be fucking joking me," he groaned, before quickly apologizing for his language. Sure, if he was alone in his office he'd swear, but there was someone else in the office now. That wasn't exactly work appropriate. "No, no... that's... that sums up everyone's reaction. Especially since we were so close to being done... well, I'll leave you to it," they said, leaving with the soft shutting of the door. He sighed, picking up the file, reading through the changes. He tried to concentrate, but his mind was elsewhere. You had taken time off before to help him, so why couldn't he? What if he did what his coworker advised? He made up his mind quickly, not really thinking of anything other than the fact that right now, you needed him. And you were always there when he needed you. You always took care of him, even when you didn't need to.

He dialled your phone number again, this time, it was a video call just like you asked. "Hey," you voice greeted him. You were in what he assumed to be your bed at your grandmother's house. "'Hey. So... I may or may not have lied to my boss about something, so if he asks, promise you'll go along with it?" He asked. "Umm.. depends," you responded. "Ok, I'll tell you in a second. Just... come open the door it's freezing out here," he said, a small smile on his face. Your eyes lit up, and you dropped the phone running downstairs. He could hear your footsteps, and ended the call. You opened the door, and hugged him tightly.  He almost stumbled from your attack, but hugged you back. "I- I thought you had- had work?" You questioned, drying the tears that had started. "Yeah, so... if my boss ever asks... um... just-" he stuttered. ''What did you tell him we were married?" You laughed. "Not... exactly?" He hesitated. "You told him we were engaged, didn't you?" You asked. "I needed to come up with a believable lie, and it was the first ting that came to mind, please don't be mad," he explained nervously. "I'm not... thank you for doing... all of that to come here. I really appreciate it," you said, bringing him inside. Your mother hadn't made it yet, as she was on a trip in America. She'd gotten the news over call, so you were alone in the house. Well, that was until Niragu showed up, but you're glad he did.

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

It was the middle of the night, and you couldn't sleep. There was always something keeping you up. You threw the blankets off of your body in frustration, standing up. You walked into the kitchen, and grabbed a cup, filling it with water. "What are you doing up so late?"

You jumped, dropping the glass. It shattered on the floor, spilling water and glass everywhere. You looked up to see Niragi. "Haha. I can't sleep," you explained, picking up the larger pieces of glass. "Well that sucks," he said, leaning on the counter. "Yeah, I'm going to go on a walk to see if I get tired," you said, drying up the water. "(Y/N), it's night time," he said. You finished picking up and nodded. "I'm... well aware," you responded confused. "You're a woman... going out for a walk... at night. Alone," he reminded. You sighed looking down. He was definitely on the right track. "Right... uh, I'll just go to my room then... we don't have plans tomorrow do we?" You asked. He shook his head. "You know what? No, come on. I'll drive you around, yeah? Let's see if we can find something to get you tired," he said, grabbing his keys off the counter. You grabbed his arm, stopping him. "Can I get my hoodie? It's cold," you asked. You were in a tank top and a pair of spandex. "Yeah. I'll be in the car, don't take too long," he said, leaving.

You quickly ran to your room, throwing on your favorite hoodie. You also grabbed a pair of tennis shoes from your closet, slipping them on. You snatched your phone from your dresser, putting it in the pocket of your hoodie. You ran to the front door, locking it, and closing it behind you. You ran out to his car, opening the passenger side door. You felt the warmth from inside the car, and goosebumps appeared on your skin. You got in quickly, shutting the door as you did. "Ready?" He asked. You nodded, and he began driving.

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

"Alright, it's the moment of truth, which mental breakdown thing will we do today?" You questioned. He laughed. "It's 2 in the morning, we're drunk, and having mental breakdowns. Twinsies~" he said. You laughed, leaning on him. "No but seriously, cutting my hair is a big no, so tattoos or piercings?" You questioned. "Both. Let's go!" You shouted, grabbing his arm. "Woah Woah woah. Before we go, what do we do if a cop pulls us over?" He asked, being serious. "Nothing. ACAB bitch," you giggled. "Ok, and I'm driving-"

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

All in all, you two had moments that seems like you were the main characters of the whole world. Of course, during high school you two were cautious about what you did, seeing as you still had to worry about your bullies and fathers. But after high school? Oh, no. You two were the kids that didn't have to study for the test because you were to smart. Staying out at parties and keeping perfect grades was your guy's thing.

You two would stay up doing projects out of your own ambition. The essay was due in a month and needed to be 3 pages? You would both finish and turn it in the week it was assigned, and it was 13 pages. Of course, that was a problem, seeing as you would extend yourselves past your limits. It was a thing you were taught to do as children to be overachievers because you would do anything to please your parents. Even if you knew they would never be pleased.

Maybe that's why your previous relationships hadn't worked out. There was 4 in total.

The first broke up with you because he didn't like Niragi. What did they want you to do? Drop your childhood best friend? No way.

The second cheated on you. Niragi had warned you, but you didn't listen. He had said that he thought you were cheating on him with Niragi.

The third turned out to be a manipulator, which you caught on to quickly. He tried to manipulate a girl who grew up with an abusive father, who takes forensics and psychology classes. So, in short, he was a dumbass.

The fourth... the fourth was just annoyingly clingy. He didn't want you to talk to other guys, and didn't let you as independent as you wanted to be.

One thing they all had in common though, was that they didn't like Niragi. They expected you to drop your best friend for them, something you wouldn't do, and didn't plan on ever doing.

"What are you thinking about?" Last Boss whispered next to you. It caught you off guard, and you jumped. "Ah, sorry... just... thinking about stuff. Nothing important," you said. He nodded, going back to whatever he was doing beforw. Niragi smirked, nudging you with his elbow. "You got Last Boss to talk to you? Oh he must like you a lot," Niragi teased, rather loudly. You rolled your eyes, and you heard Last Boss scoff. "What are you? The guys from high school?" You said. His face scrunched up in disgust, and you saw his hands grip onto his gun. You cautiously moved away slightly. "Don't compare me to them," he spat. You nodded your head to his gun. "Then don't act like them."

[jacobseedvaas35]

Befriended

(Chapter 7: Veterans Centre)

Word Count: 1339

Starting from this chapter we will be starting to welcome a lot of familiar Resistance members. In this chapter we have Eli Palmer, Nick Rye and Wheaty. Also special mentions to Sharks Boshaw and Hurk Jr. as well as John and Joseph Seed

Jacob stood in front of the closed gate of his old Veterans Centre, examining every inch of it. He had missed this place. It was like his home but now this dearest place was going to keep the girl he loves, safe from those evil people that want to hurt her.

Jacob looked back at the Sheriff and smirked, "Thanks Sheriff".

"You're welcome Jacob. Let's go and have a look around. See what needs fixing" the Sheriff said, taking the keys out and unlocking the gates.

"I'm certain the cages are going to need some fixing up and I'll have to go up to check my office out" Jacob said walking through the gates.

"We are going to need a lot of security around here"

"Where are we going to get those security from? There were only peggies around here" Jacob said.

"Jacob, all those people that you hurt, want to help you. Nick Rye, Sharky Boshaw, Hurk Jr, Jerome and even Eli Palmer" Sheriff Whitehorse suggested a few names. "We can get them to take turns to keep an eye on the prisoners, when you're not around. Even Pratt and I will do it too".

"I don't know Sheriff. All those people you've mention, they've gone through so much because of me"

"The past stays in the past Jacob Seed" a voice came from behind.

Jacob turned around and saw Eli, Nick and Wheaty, standing at the entrance of the courtyard, with friendly smiles on their faces.

"So, who are we after?" Eli asked, approaching the sheriff and Jacob.

"My girlfriends ex-fiancé and her parents. They've hurt her a lot in the past and I'm 100% certain they've come back for more" Jacob explained.

"The ex-fiancé came a while back and he has already physically abused my Deputy. If it wasn't for Jacob, he could have killed her" the Sheriff added.

"So we have an abusive ex to deal with? What's the plan?" Nick asked.

"I want to put him and her parents through hell. Teach them a lesson and show that Isabella isn't alone anymore. They came to Hope County thinking they'll get away with it again but not on my watch. It's time someone did something about this" Jacob explained to the four men. "No lady should ever go through something like this. As for her parents, I'm going to make them realise that money doesn't bring happiness".

"What do you have planned for them?" The Sheriff asked.

"From What Bella has told me, her parents were happy for her to get beaten up because at the end of the day, they were getting money from the guy. I'm going to show them that money doesn't bring happiness. I'm going to make Bella the happiest girl on this planet, just to prove to them that she is happier without them and Mark" Jacob explained. "They've lost their daughter and don't have any idea about it. But they'll learn once they start missing out on Isabella's happy days".

"Make them feel guilty?" Eli asked. "I like the plan. What about the ex-fiancé?".

"Well Bella did say she was beaten up by this guy, day and night. I'm going to do the same thing to him" Jacob said, a smirk forming on his face. "I'm going to put him through the same exact pain, he put Bella through. See how he likes it when the tides turn".

"We get to help with the beating up too? Right?" Nick asked. "I've got a wife and kid. I wouldn't let anyone hurt them like that".

"And by the sounds of things, you really love this girl" Eli added.

"She's my whole life. I don't want to lose her or even see her live with fear. I want these people to be afraid of Isabella now" Jacob said and turned around to look at the huge building.

"Well don't you worry Jacob. You've got the whole Hope County behind you and Isabella. We will help you both" Eli said, putting a hand on Jacob's shoulder. "It'll be like the good old times. The only difference is, this time we are on your side pal".

Jacob turned around and looked at Eli, he put his hand on his shoulder and nodded. "Thanks....pal".

“Let's get cleaning" the Sheriff said and all the men followed him into the courtyard.

-

Meanwhile, Isabella was left at home with Deputy Hudson and Deputy Pratt, while Jacob was out. She had no idea where Jacob was but she trusted him. She also knew the Sheriff was with him but they were up to something and Bella was curious to know.

"So the Sheriff hasn't told you both anything?" Bella asked the two Deputies?.

"Not a single thing" Pratt said and looked at Hudson.

"I'm going to call Jacob. He said he would be home before dinner. It's almost 7pm and he hasn't come" Bella said, grabbing her phone and walking into the bedroom.

"Hello" Jacob answered.

"Jacob! Where are you? Do you realise what the time is?"

"Bella calm down. I'm on my way home now" Jacob said, calming her down.

"Can you hurry up please. I need you here"

"I'm ten minutes away. Is Hudson and Pratt still with you?" Jacob asked.

"Yeah but they are getting very tired. That's why you need to come home so these people can go home and get some rest"

"Ten minutes. I promise".

“Okay. See you soon"

"Bella?"

"Yeah?"

"I love you"

Bella smiled and blushed at the same time. "I love you too Jacob".

-

Like Jacob promised, ten minutes after the phone call, he and sheriff arrived home. Isabella opened the door and ran straight into Jacob's arms.

"God, you took your time" Bella said against his chest. She turned her head, putting her ear against his chest and listening to his heart beats but something in the distance frightened her. She started shaking in Jacob's embrace and pulled away from him. Tears already flowing out of her eyes.

"Bella? What's wrong?" Jacob became worried almost immediately.

"It's him" she whispered. "It's Mark. He's over there watching us".

Sheriff Whitehorse, Jacob and the two Deputies all looked in the direction of where Isabella was staring and sure enough, there he was watching all of them behind a tree.

"Hudson, Bella get inside right now" the Sheriff ordered and the two girls complied.

Jacob didn't waste any time and started running towards Mark. The moment he saw Jacob coming, Mark turned around and started running himself. Deputy Pratt and the Sheriff weren't too far off from Jacob.

As the men chased Mark down the street, Bella was back at home having a panic attack. Hudson rushed through the house, looking for something that could help Bella breath. Eventually she found a brown paper bag and rushed back next to Isabella.

"Here Rook. This will help you breath" she said and handed the paper bag over.

Bella immediately started using the bag, until her breathing was back under control. A few breaths later, Bella was able to calm her breathing down but this time, started to cry hysterically.

"He's going to kill me. I know it"

"No he won't Bella. Jacob will kill him first" Hudson said, hugging her friend. "I'm going to call John. He should be here". Hudson took her phone out and dialled her husband's number. "John".

"Dear, where are you?" John asked.

"John, you need to come to Jacob's house right now. It's really bad here and Jacob could do with some support from his baby brother" Hudson suggested.

"Are you going to tell me what's wrong?" John asked.

"Isabella's ex-fiancé is causing really bad problems for Bella. She's terrified. We just saw him spying on us. Jacob, the sheriff and Pratt are chasing him down right now. Bella's having a panic attack. I need you John".

"I've just jumped in the car. Don't leave the house. Lock the doors until Jacob comes back. Do you hear me?"

"Yes. Please hurry John".

[selfcarecap]

I finally have something to report, be it the most juvenile and bland story – so buckle up and let me underwhelm you with my tedious day-to-day problems! (not me using this as an excuse to message you within reason…) I've had severe issues with my right ear for the past few months to the point where I straight up couldn't hear anymore. I'm one of those insufferable people who'd rather silently suffer than make an appointment at the doctor's – who would've guessed? (Not to mention the obsessive pre-emptive research, insecurity and self-diagnoses I obtained. Could it be more serious? What if there's more than meets the eye? What if they start questioning my hygiene or judge the state of my being…) But my sister had had enough and took it into her own hands, booked an appointment, and decided to accompany me. (me and my social anxiety are eternally thankful for her existence – bless her!) That being said, we got ourselves ready for the appointment today, and she, for reasons unknown, decided to step out (while in a hurry) in heels. Her straps ripped on the way to the tube, forcing her to struggle along behind me. Great start, indeed. Seated in the tube, she started going on a rampage, expressing her discontent quite loudly. You see, the straps tore in a way, where her heeled sandal could no longer hold onto her foot, unintentionally repurposing it into a flip flop. (albeit a poor version) She started nagging, not at all unwarranted, in her usual way: unabashedly throwing around profanities with no ill intent. I know that, she does too, but the passengers didn't – so our ride turned into an awkwardly uncomfortable occassional side-glance fest. (anxiety dialling up to the max) Finally arriving at our destined location, the doctor's office, we checked in. (Very grateful for delightful people at the reception who, with their patient and calm presence, manage to wind down some of my anxiety!) Everything went by quick and easy. Turns out I have, to my over worried disbelief, no lasting damage or serious condition but a mild infection that I now have to treat with daily ear drops until it heals on its own. Thanking the doc for her quick and very friendly treatment, I stand up, making my way out, only to trip and nearly fall – embarrassment barometer once again rising. Before we take off, we quickly step into a DM close by, getting my sister the cheapest shoes. (Flip flops are her enemies, though it's better than walking barefoot downtown) Nearly home, we turn up at the pharmacy to get the ear drops, and it's my first time paying with a credit card. To no one's surprise, I make a complete fool of myself and act like a human experiment that only recently got loose, new to human inventions. Bless the pharmacist for talking me through this and trying to calm my panicky arse, but the barometer at this point has reached peak measure of humility.

I'm now finally at home, concluding today to be a disaster. Though, I've got to admit that my anxiety perhaps dialled everything up worse than it was, as was my reluctance to get my ear checked. (But guess who won't learn anything from this and will repeat it shall a problem arise once more? Me. Without question.)

How was your day? :)

-sparkles

Your anxiety probably did make everything feel worse than it actually was (I’m the same 😭) and I can also promise you none of the people who witnessed you doing those things that you thought were embarrassing even remember it anymore! They‘ve all forgotten about them 100% 😌

But bless your sister! I am her in this scenario, both for taking you to the doctor (ear stuff is no joke😭 YOU COULDNT HEAR??? I‘m glad it‘s nothing bad!!! Also what are ear drops like? Sounds kinda cool but uncomfortable at the same time lol) and also bc flip flops are her enemy lmao sameee

And pls I didn‘t pay with card for the first three years that I had one bc I was scared of embarrassing myself 😭😭 i feeeeel you on that dhdldk

The day you sent this I had two exams (I think I already said that) and by now I‘ve found out that I failed the first one 🙂 but I passed the second one even tho I was 100% sure I was going to fail lmao. Either way they‘re only in my Nebenfach so I can do the failed exam again without any consequences (except I have to obviously pass it at some point lol). So yeah it seems like that day wasn‘t exactly amazing for either of us but there were some good things! You now know your ear is going to be okay and you can pay with card from now on and I passed an exam!

[captain-kingliamsqueen]

I'm Afraid It’s Too Late

Part 3 of Always!!! 

I may have teared up a little a lot writing this part! 

Pairing: Liam x Riley  

Summary:   Will Riley get to tell Liam before Madeleine gets to him? what happens he find out what she’s been up to?

Word Count: 1918

 Tagged : @starstruckzonkoperatorbat @drakelover78 @queencatherynerhys @devineinterventions2 @jayjay879 @pens-girl-87 @kawairinrin @hopefulmoonobject 

 Riley waited for Madeleine to turn the corner then she moved from her spot. she stood still, light tears falling down her face, not knowing what to do, she had to tell Liam, no doubt about it, how do you tell someone that their Fiancé is trying to kill them thought.  Before she could stop herself, she carried on towards the sitting room.

“Duchess, you should be in your room, resting!” Riley stopped in her tracks, hearing the nurse shout at her.

“I just wanted to stretch my legs, I’ve been sitting down for the best part of a week, I just wanted to be on my feet” she stated as the nurse approached her

“that’s fine, but you need to let me know so I can come with you, the only reason you got to come back was because a nurse would be with you” the nurse told her.  “come on, back to your room”

“no, I can’t I have to Speak to the King!” Riley Declared as she went to walk away

“Miss Brookes You are still very much injured, you can’t be up for too long, you need to rest!”

“no! I have to speak to him!” Riley shouted then winced as she felt a pain in her chest.

“no! room now!” the nurse took Riley's arm and walked her to her room, Riley winced as she climbed the stairs.

“this is why you should be resting” the nurse sighed a little kinder than she originally spoke.

“I know” Riley mumbled. Once they reached Riley's room the nurse helped her sit down comfortably.

“now if you want to move…you call for me, if you want something to eat…you call for me! Don’t move otherwise, unless you have someone with you to help you…you do not move.” she sighed then nodded then the nurse made her way to the door.

“goodnight miss Riley” she called then closed the door behind her. After she heard the door shut next door, she climbed back out of bed, heading straight for the door, she opened it as slowly as she could to ensure the nurse didn’t hear her. She stepped out closing the door behind her, she headed down the hall hoping to find someone who would know where Liam was.

“Brookes?” Drake called as he rounded the corner

“Drake! where’s Liam?”

“Liam? He’s just left, he had a last-minute meeting, Madeleine forgot to tell him about it, he won’t be back till later”

“You have to call him Drake!” she cried out as she held her chest Drake instantly stepped forward worried.

“Riley calm down, what’s wrong?”

“I-its Madeleine” she sobbed “she’s trying to kill him Drake”

“what? Riley you aren’t making any sense”

“the man…the one that shot me…he was here…with madeleine”

“what?!?” Drake whispered with fear.

“sh-she was…she was shouting at him…because…Because he missed…because he hit me instead of Liam, you have to call him, Drake!!” Drake pulled his phone from his jeans pocked quickly dialling Liam's personal Phone. After about 30 seconds he picked up.

“Drake, what’s up?” Riley grabbed the phone from his hands and held it to her ear.

“Liam!”

“Riley? Hi, is everything alright?”

“Liam…is she with you?”

“no, she’s still at the palace, she said she wasn’t feeling to great, so she was just going to stay there”

“Liam…” she cried “it’s her…she’s the one who organised for the shooter to be at the track” Riley whispered

“what?” he whispered the same way Drake had when she told him.

“I left my room to come and find you and she was in the study…with him…the guy…the one with the blue patch on his sleeve, she was shouting at him for…for missing you…”

“Riley, I need you to be 100% of what you heard?”

“I am Liam…it’s her.”

“Alright…I’m going to have the driver turn around and bring-” Liam was interrupted by a loud bang then the car skidded into the opposite lane.

“LIAM!!” Riley heard Bastian shout followed by an explosive sound…then dead silence.

“Liam? LIAM!!!” She cried “Liam please answer me” she whispered as Drake ran to tell the guards of what he knew. Riley refused to hang up the phone, she ran after Drake, the worry of losing the love of her life.

“Drake?!” she called, once she reached the stairs she made her way towards the king’s guards conference room where she heard talking. She seen Drake rushing out with the guards on his tail.

“Drake he’s not answering!” she cried

“We’re going to the hospital that’s where he’ll be going”

“I’m coming with you!” Riley stated

“no! your still injured! You’re staying here!”

“NO! I’m sick of people telling me what I can and can’t do, he’s hurt! I’m not going to sit here and do nothing!!” she insisted.

“alright…hurry up” drake gave in as they ran out to the cars.

Not even giving themselves time to fasten their belts the cars all went speeding out of the gates.

By the time they reached the hospital the place was covered in press. The guards cleared a path for Riley and Drake, once they were in, they headed straight for the main desk.

“Liam Rhys where is Liam Rhys?” Drake asked

“are you family?”

“no but his family aren’t here! Where is he?”

“I’m afraid I can’t let you in if you aren’t family”

“you let us in to see duchess Riley when she was here…we aren’t her family!”

“this is the king!”

“exactly!! We are his close friends!! He needs someone there!”

“I can’t let you through, I can call a doctor to come and speak to you, but I cannot let you through.”

“fine! Get a doctor!” he slammed his fist on the counter, the woman paged for Liam's doctor, it was about 10 minutes later that walked through the doors.

“Mr walker, miss Brookes how are you feeling? Any better?”

“not really just the same” Riley replied not really interested in talking about herself. “where’s Liam? Is he okay? What happened?”

“why don’t we go and find somewhere private to talk?” he asked looking torn.

“okay” Riley stuttered getting even more worried. The guards followed Riley and Drake as the doctor took them to a private room. he sat down, gesturing for them to sit too.

“please don’t beat around the bush…just tell us how he is” Drake sighed before the doctor even started talking.

The doctor let out a sigh then removed his glasses.

The king suffered from internal bleeding to the brain, by the time we got him to the hospital there wasn’t much we could do for him.

“he’s…he can’t be…we- we were going to…you have to help him!!! We can’t lose him…we can’t” Riley cried

“I’m afraid it’s too late” the doctor whispered. As soon as the words left his mouth…she broke down. Her breathing faltered, she was gasping, hyperventilating. “I-I can’t, I-I can’t breathe” she held her chest. The doctor quickly made his way to her.

“miss Brookes, you have to breathe, deep breaths, in and out” as she steadied her breathing she looked to Drake to see him sitting with his head in his hands. Riley assured the doctor she was alright then he headed for the door.

“c-can we see him?” she asked causing Drake to look up.

“I’m afraid I can’t let you do that, because he is the king, we have to alert family first, no one is allowed to see him in the hospital, his body will be transported back to the palace where there will be a viewing which will allow you to say your goodbyes.” He replied then he left.

“Drake” she whispered as she placed her hand on his arm.

“I swear to god…I’m gonna kill her” he stated, wiping his face then standing to his feet. He helped Riley to her feet then he pulled her to his chest, holding her tight.

“she won’t get away with this Riley, I promise!” Drake sniffled. After a further few minutes the two wiped their faces then headed out of the room to be greeted by the guards.

“the king is dead” Drake whispered just loud enough for them to hear, they all bowed their head, the guards were granted permission to stand guard on his room, but they were the only ones allowed anywhere near him.

As Riley and Drake headed for the hospital exit madeleine walked in.

“where is he?”

“he’s gone” Riley raged as she walked past her. As they left the hospital the press threw questions at them from every side. Both put their heads down climbing straight into one of the cars and speeding off back to the palace. Once they got back Drake walked Riley to her room. once they reached her door, Riley stopped and turned to him.

“Drake…she can’t get away with this” she cried

“she won’t!” he whispered “try and get some rest…tomorrow is going to be a long day” he whispered “night riley”

“night” she whispered the headed into her room, as soon as the door shut, she broke down, she slid her back down the door, burying her head into her knees as she let out every tear she had. All she wanted was to be with him…to love him, how dare madeleine take that away from her! After a while Riley had become some tired from all the pain both physical and mental, she fell asleep against the door.

The next day she was woken up to a loud knock on her door.  She mumbled and groaned as she woke up for the first few seconds, forgetting everything from the day before, then it all came flooding back, she sniffled as she wiped her nose then stood up opening the door just slightly.

“Bastian?” she whispered not expecting him

“Duchess Riley, may I come in for a moment?” he asked calmly

“sure” she opened the door for them the closed it behind him.

“I thought you were in the hospital?”

“I was lucky enough to get away with just some cuts and bruises”

“so why are you here?”

“your grace, His Majesty King Liam asked me, in his last moments, to give you something, he asked that I take you to get it, he said he was planning to take you there, tomorrow for some time away from court”

“get it from where”

“that is information I cannot include, I will wait in the car for you to dress” he gently bowed his head then left. Riley dressed lazily just pulling on some jeans and a checked shirt. Once she was ready she went out front to meet Bastian, when she reached the car he opened the door revealing Drake.

“Drake what are you doing here?”

“Liam wanted to show me something, I don’t know, he asked Bastian to show me something”

“oh” she replied as they set off.

After being in the car for at least 40 minutes they pulled up outside the safe house.

“the safe house?” Riley said, more to herself than anyone else.

Bastian exited the car then opened the door for Riley and Drake, once they reached the front door, Bastian knocked then opened it letting Riley and Drake enter before him, he shut and lock the door behind them.

“Bastian what is going on!?” Riley asked as they turned to face him. She heard footsteps behind her then…

“what’s up…you’re not excited to see me” she gasped as she turned to see him…

“Liam…?” she cried