#Madeleine Bertrand

[edsonjnovaes]

O Tahiti E

Apresentação de O Tahiti E no Heiva 2016 Tahitian dance – Madeleine Bertrand. 7 de jul. de 2016 Each year the event Heiva i Tahiti is held where different groups compete against each other in many different dance categories. This is a portion of the performance from the group “O Tahiti E” In Tahitian, the word Heiva (hei meaning to assemble, and va meaning community places) refers to…

[twinkleallnight]

Isle of Misfits

Chapter 10: Dealing with the Paparazzi.

Fandom: TRR x Platinum x OH x CoP x TNA x ?

Series: Isle of Misfits, Round Robin 24, hosted by @choicesprompts

Characters:

TRR – Liam Rys, Leo Rys, Olivia Nevrakis, Madeleine Amaranth

RoE – Katie Rys

TNA – Sam Dalton

Word count: 1240

The phone pinged.

‘1 new message’

Leo sighed and picked up to read. He was tired of explaining himself to Katie. The world never understood him or his desire to live a care free life. The paparazzi won’t let him breathe. But he thought Katie would understand. She would always know. He had tried to be honest with her, always.

He was struggling to stay abreast sailing through the rough waters when his brother decided to take the corrective action for Leo’s deeds . He was forced into this PR stunt of a circus with his childhood friend, Bertrand, playing the ring master. And as if Gods had not had enough of entertainment, he was paired with his ex, Madeleine! Just perfect!

Coming out of his reverie, he tapped his fingers on the home screen to check the new message .

‘Meet me at the beach restaurant in 10minutes to collect your dossier .

Countess Madeleine .’

“Better than having Sam Dalton as a mentor” he consoled himself. “His brains function through that Rocket in his pocket. At least Madeleine has her head over her shoulders.”

He dragged himself out of his bed. Sharp after 10 minutes he presented himself in front of the Countess.

“What do you plan to do with this?” He lifted the heavy bundle of papers filed into a folder neatly. ‘Prim and proper. So much like Madeleine.’

But Madeleine’s reply was totally off beat. “why you have not shaved?”

Leo shook his head as if trying to decipher. “What?” He moved his fingers through the over grown messy beard.

Madeleine scoffed, “ Let me make it clear Leo. You are constantly under lens.”

“That’s exactly what I don’t want.” He cut her off.

“You were the crown prince.”

“And I abdicated.” He tried to prove his point.

“Doesn’t matter. You can’t change who you are born as.”

“Why?” He pulls his fingers through his sandy blonde hair In frustration.

“Prince Harry abdicated too. But he is always in news.”

Leo scowled, “For heavens sake! Can’t they let me live in peace?”

“Only if you don’t give them chance to rip through your peaceful personal life.” She air quoted.

He nods in agreement. “And I can see, you are here to tell me, how.”

“Now you are talking business.” Madeleine smiled.

Leo closed his eyes for a moment. He had to do this for Katie, for his children. He took a deep breath. “Okay. Tell me what am I supposed to do?”

“You need to look perfect when you walk in public. It shows that you are leading a perfect and happy life.”

Leo smirked, “Yes it’s a very happy life.”

“Make it look like one and I can tell you, they will stop chasing you.”

“Fine! What next?”

“I have appointed a valet for you. He will help with your attire, hair and your over all appearance. You will not leave your room before he checks you.”

Leo rolled his eyes. He had no other option but to accept what was thrown at him.

For the next hour he went back and forth over the plans Madeleine had laid out for him.

******************************************

Bertrand’s office next day

Olivia was seated across Bertrand, discussing their next modus operandi. Olivia had successfully completed her task with Raleigh Carrera and was now assigned to the case of the exiled crown prince, Trystan Thorne, of Drakovia.

An urgent knock on the door brought them to a halt. They both looked at each other. Bertrand voiced, “Come in” , wondering who was their uninvited guest for the meeting .

Leo stormed in and slammed a tabloid onto the desk in front of Bertrand. Olivia stared back at Leo’s fuming face while Bertrand looked in confusion, “ What does this mean?”

“Open and see for yourself.” Leo pointed out his finger.

As soon as Bertrand picked the newspaper and unfolded it, his eyes went wide with shock. Olivia leaned towards him to peer into the news.

The newspaper had images of Leo and Madeleine sitting in a cafe. The first one had Madeleine gleaming at Leo and the second one showed them shaking hands near the exit. The tag line read ‘Former crown prince Leo Rhys, spotted with his ex, Countess Madeleine, at leisure on a private island. Do we smell something burning in Katie Rhys’ sweet home?”

A smile played on Olivia’s lips.

“Seriously?” Leo asked looking at Olivia’s reaction.

“It’s not about you.” She fanned away with her hand.

“From what I can see, it’s definitely about me.” He turned to Bertrand angrily, “This is how you were going to help me save my image and my marriage?”

Olivia spoke instead, “Its not his fault. Madeleine should have been more discreet while planning her meetings.”

Just as on clue, Madeleine stepped inside the office. “Speak for yourself. I know my job well.” She snatched the tabloid from Bertrand’s hand and glanced at the pics, dismissing it in an instant.

She focused on Leo, “ This is the reason I insisted you need to dress up properly. Had you been in a formal attire, this would have been ignored by the media as just another business meeting.”

“Great ! So now it’s all my mistake? You know what my mistake is? Trusting you guys with my future.”

Bertrand replied in a calm note, “I think you are over reacting. It’s just two pics, we can change the flow of events. My PR company can assure you, we are good at turning the waves in your favour.”

Before he completed his sentence, the doors to his office opened with a bang. Drake barged in raging in anger. “The hell you turn things only in your favour. You Beaumonts are the most mean and selfish men walking on this damn planet.” His voice echoed across the halls outside the office.

Bertrand’s eyes roamed behind Drake to check if there were any audience at his doors. He settled his gaze back on Drake. “May I know the reason for this intrusion?”

Drake sneered, “You call yourself CEO of a PR firm yet you don’t have updates of the newsflash on TV channels across Cordonia?”

Bertrand gave Drake an irritated glare and picked up the remote to switch on the flat screen hanging on the wall across his table. The screen brightened up with flashes of red haired lady bouncing on a dance floor. All of them in the room knew that was Olivia but the next few moments left everyone’s mouth hanging open.

Bertrand came into the frame trying to dance. He made some lewd gestures and then grabbed Olivia into a smooch.

Leo and Madeleine jolted back at Bertrand. Even Olivia had shock written all over her face. Definitely she was drunk that she didn’t remember this incident.

Bertrand gulped and fumbled with the remote to switch off the TV. He didn’t want to listen or let others in the room listen to the reporter’s remarks.

“I... I ... I can explain”, he said nervously.

Drake sprinted to him in two steps and held him by collar. “How many times are you going to explain? First my sister, then your back stabbing brother took Riley and now you target my girl friend?”

“Riley is with Max?” The baritone voice from the entrance of the office brought everything to standstill. They all turned to see Liam standing in a thunderstuck state.

Tags : @angelasscribbles @alj4890 @tessa-liam @lizzybeth1986 @3pawandme @annabellewynter @bascmve01 @bebepac @busywoman @dcbbw @choicesficwriterscreations @harleybeaumont @iaminlovewithtrr @karahalloway @kingliam2019 @lovingchoices14 @nestledonthaveone @neotericthemis @mom2000aggie @phoenixrising0308 @princess-geek @sazanes @secretaryunpaid @sfb123 @sillydg @tinkie1973 @txemrn @walkerdrakewalker @rubiwalker @703cowbarn @kyra75 @likealotus @kskvb20 @marietrinmimi @aussiegurl1234

[tessa-liam]

Turning the Page

Only You Can Love Me This Way 

Chapter 13 

Choices, The Royal Romance, The Royal Heir AU 

Series Premise: As Riley Brooks journeys through life as a single parent in New York City, an epiphany strikes as she contemplates the future for herself and her two-year-old son. 

Turning the Page Series Masterlist

My Complete Masterlist 

Main pairing: Liam Rys x F!OC Riley Brooks 

All characters belong to Pixelberry Studios, except William Brooks (Rys) and Matteo Magro, who both belong to this series. 

Category: On-going series, contains angst/fluff/depression. Cross-over fic with Choices, Perfect Match. 

Rating: M 🔞 - Warnings – Series will have crude language, weapons, NSFW material – not Beta’d - please excuse all errors. 

Words: 3624 

Only You Can Love Me This Way

Chapter Summary: Olivia continues to mentor Riley on how to adapt to Cordonian nobility. Maxwell, Bertrand and Savannah babysit William and Bartie, taking them on a Lythikan adventure. Liam and Riley re-connect and discover that their love story is stronger and better than ever. 

Music & Title Inspiration: Only You Can Love Me This Way, Keith Urban 

A/N1: In this alternate universe, after King Constantine orchestrates two individual scandals to humiliate and entrap Riley Brooks and Olivia Nevrakis in shame, Madeleine Amaranth secures her position as the Queen of Cordonia. Riley, as the King’s mistress and Olivia, in self-imposed exile. Tariq is never found.  

A/N2: Damien Nazario has been assigned as William’s personal bodyguard. (Series cross-over with ‘Perfect Match’) 

A/N3: My submission for choicesjunechallenge, prompts: spatial-hotel / temporal-beginning/   dialogue- “Up for a little trip?” 

El Alami residence, Rabat, Morocco 

With her ankles crossed delicately underneath her, Madeleine El Alami pulled out her cellular to check the status of the Uber driver. It was still incredibly early in the morning in Morocco, and time was of the essence. Her flight was scheduled to leave in ninety minutes from Rabat – Sale International airport and nothing and/or no one was going to halt her journey. Not even her husband.  

Peeking out from between the fence columns outside her home, she could see the city coming alive as the sun's first rays illuminated the horizon. The people who had been hushed moments before, now filled the streets, greeting each other and heading off to start their day. It was a side of life Madeleine had never experienced before, a stark contrast to the opulence and splendor of her former life at the Cordonian palace. It was a reminder of the sacrifices she had made to follow her heart to be with her lover, Eduardo.  

Now five months pregnant, the former queen, now the wife to the Moroccan diplomat, was leaving this world behind. While her husband slept, Madeleine, along with two hand servants were waiting for the Uber vehicle to roll to a stop at the estate’s front entrance. Her suitcases were hefted on board, as she sat down in the rear seat and buckled herself in. The driver shut the door and the car slowly rolled away, the servants went back inro the estate. 

Her parents' disappointment and dismay had only grown when she told them about her unborn baby on their last visit. Her father coaxed her to pack up and return to his duchy in Karlington, England and start over. Her mother wanted her to move back home to Krona, Cordonia. As usual her parents were worlds apart when it came to their only daughter and her well-being, but they were united against Eduardo. 

However, she was done with being controlled by Eduardo.  Done with her father's demands and her mother's nagging. This time, she was going to do what she wanted to do. And what she wanted to do was to spend the rest of her pregnancy alone. 

As she Uber drove to the airport, Madeleine left her husband, forever closing that chapter, watching the world go by; but not seeing anything. Her mind turned to the letter she had left for her husband. She had no regrets for her actions but hoped her words would provide solace for him. 

She felt nothing. No sadness. No loss.  

She had already mourned her former life and the loss of her title as queen. In its place was a new sense of freedom. And with that new sense of freedom came the hope for a new life, with the baby growing inside her. 

Nevrakis Lodge, Lythikos, Cordonia 

"Are you excited to see Uncle Maxwell and Aunt Savannah today, William?" Liam spoke as he was getting his little prince ready for the day. William giggled. "Yeah!" 

"And you get to ride in a carriage! You have never ridden in one before, have you?" Liam smiled as his son's excitement grew. "YES! Horsies!" the little boy replied enthusiastically, his eyes wide with excitement. Liam chuckled. "Let's go get some breakfast and then we can go and wait for Uncle Max.” 

"Okay, daddy!" William beamed; his excitement shined brightly from his big blue eyes. 

As they entered the hallway, they heard a familiar voice call out, "William! Look at how big you are!" 

"Unca Max!" William cried out, running towards his favorite uncle. 

Maxwell scooped the little boy up in a bear hug, smiling widely. "We're going to have so much fun today, little man!" 

"Where's Bartie?" William was concerned, his eyes searching for his newfound best friend. 

"I'm over here," Bartie replied, popping out from behind his mother. "I wanna play with the horses, too. Can we, Mommy? Pleeease?" 

Savannah gave her son a loving smile. "Well as long as the two of you eat your breakfast first." William bounded over to his little friend. "YAY!" The boys both cheered. Liam strolled over, "Savannah, hello. You look well this morning," Liam kissed her cheek. 

"As do you, your majesty," she replied with a curtsy, bowing her head. “Liam, I am so happy and excited for you and Riley.”

"Thank you, Savannah."

Liam clapped Maxwell on the shoulder. "It is good to see you both, too, Lord Beaumont, Duke Ramsford." 

“Your majesty.” Bertrand bowed and smiled, then stepped back to join his wife. 

"Good to see you too, Li." Maxwell grinned at his childhood friend, as the men watched the boys follow Savannah as she grasped their hands. 

Liam shook his head, a grin on his face. "Those two are inseparable. It's a good thing Bertrand has gotten over his fear of children." 

Maxwell laughed. "Bertrand loves kids, he just has to be the most uptight person on the planet." 

Liam chuckled. "I suppose that's true." 

"Hey Max, are you ready?" called out Savannah from down the hall. 

"Ready to eat always, Savvie ... as I"ll ever be," Maxwell replied, turning to Liam. "So, what's the plan for today?" 

Liam gave a mischievous smile. "Well, I thought you could spend the day with William and Bartie, giving Riley and I a chance to have some alone time." 

Maxwell grinned. "Hah ... sounds like fun," he winked. "You're going to owe me, though." 

Liam rolled his eyes. "Yeah, yeah. Whatever you want." 

Maxwell chuckled. "Alright, let's get this show on the road. The kids and my stomach are waiting." 

Liam turned back to adjust his tie and reached for his suit jacket which was draped over a wing chair. He walked to the foyer to meet with Riley and Olivia, Bastien following discreetly behind him. 

"You're dismissed, Damien," Liam said. "I appreciate your vigilance. 

“Of course," Damien bowed and took his leave, joining the other members of the Royal Guard in the hallway. As he closed the door, his eyes wandered across the hallway, where he watched Olivia wrapping William in a hug before turning toward the foyer and the waiting limo outside. 

Damien had been captivated by Olivia from the moment they were introduced. As he watched her wrap the little crown prince in a hug, his mind wandered. 

He could not help but admire her grace and elegance, the way her fiery hair shone underneath the chandelier or when her eyes sparkled when she laughed. 

Damien knew he could never have her, but the thought of being able to spend time with her, to make her laugh and see her smile, was enough to fuel his dreams. 

He wondered what it would be like to hold her in his arms, to kiss her soft lips and feel her body pressed against his. 

But that was all it could ever be, a fantasy, a dream. 

‘What would a Duchess ever see in a guardsman? Olivia is a rare beauty,’ Damien mused. ‘She's not like any other noble, and she doesn't seem to care about the status or title.’ 

His thoughts were interrupted by the sound of the door opening, and he straightened up, adjusting his uniform. 

As Damien thoughts went back to his post, his eyes drifted back to Olivia, and he could not help but wonder if there was a chance, however small, that his dreams could become a reality. 

*** 

“Olivia, why are you being so secretive?”  Riley inquired again, after spending the morning shopping for clothes and accessories in the city center, the limousine rolled to a stop at the Nevrakis lodge entrance. 

Bastien opened the limousine door as Olivia stepped out. Glancing back to Riley, she smirked, “You are one lucky lady”. Riley’s eyebrow lifted in question. “You, my dear have a final challenge to endure." 

Riley sat and blinked as she took in her words. After reaching for her bags Riley turned her attention to exit the limo after Olivia, when she heard a deep baritone voice, "...Hi." 

Riley looked up to see a six-foot, 4-inch-tall familiar man looking at her with a huge smile. Dressed in a crisp, sleek suit overtopped by an Armani topcoat 

"Liam? ...What are you doing here?" Riley’s eyes went wide as she looked up at her lover. 

"...And dressed like that?”  

“Love, I wouldn't dream of being underdressed for your final challenge." Liam smirked and then chuckled softly watching Riley’s look of disbelief. 

"So, you're here for the challenge too?" 

"You bet. I've been waiting for this moment since you came back to Cordonia." 

"Liam, what is going on?" 

 “This is our final destination. According to Olivia, I am the challenge.” 

"And that would be?" 

Liam smiled wide, not giving out any clues.

"Oh my, this isn't a game show, right?" 

"Not to worry, love. All I know is that Olivia has prepared something for us and it's a surprise." 

"Okay. So, what is this surprise? Please tell me."

"Oh, I wouldn't want to spoil the fun." 

"Liam, I don't like surprises." 

"Love, I know ...I can see that. But, I think you will like this one. This is our last day in Lythikos; I've already been briefed and we're going to have a blast." 

Olivia’s watched their exchange and added, “the last thing you need to get back into fighting form is to reconnect with what you are fighting for. 

...And you have always been driven by your love for Liam; for your family.”

Liam slid his arm around Riley’s waist pulling her close to him. “Which was an unusually sentimental thing to hear Olivia say.” 

Olivia sighed, “a bit saccharine for my tastes, but to each their own. I always thought love was a weakness, but you seem to actually draw strength from each other.” 

Riley’s scrunched her eyebrows, “Just to be clear, my last challenge is to spend time with King Liam Rys?” 

“The whole day, actually. Olivia is taking us into town.” 

“Everyone else will help me take care of William while you’re away.” Olivia added.

“Sweet! Free daycare! I’m really warming up to Lythikos hospitality.” 

“It’s a circumstantial offer. Cherish it while it lasts.” 

Liam kissed Riley’s cheek, “believe me, we plan to.” 

“But Olivia, you’re supposed to be looking into our Madeleine problem....and the press.” 

“Damien and I will dhave everything covered; I promise. 

And you have your marching orders. Reconnect and start fresh, that you may crush your enemies on the morrow.” 

Liam grinned, “Ah, Romantic.” Placing his hand on the small of her back, Liam steered Riley back into the lodge to change into the evening wear that she bought in town. 

Standing at the entrance of the dining room, along with the other guards, Damien Nazario stood vigilantly watching the crown prince. His eyes were sharp and ever watchful. As a trained ex-secret service agent and bodyguard, he knew when people were watching. 

His attention was suddenly drawn to a smattering of voices outside in the main hall, and a moment later, Duchess Olivia Nevrakis entered the dining room, and Damien felt his breath catch. 

She was stunning. She had been stunning the night before, but he had not noticed her beauty fully. This morning, the Duchess wore a form fitting black and grey suit. Her vibrant red hair was done up in a chignon. Damien was entranced by her, but he knew better than to stare. He tore his eyes away from her and glanced down at the floor, taking in the shiny black patent leather of her boots. He swallowed, wondering how they would feel around his neck. He shook his head, trying to clear the image from his mind. He looked up, and his eyes once again caught sight of her, this time her stormy blue green eyes were looking straight into his. 

She arched an eyebrow and tilted her head as she regarded him. Damien's cheeks warmed. 

"Good morning," a voice sounded beside him. 

"Morning," he mumbled, glancing back to where the Duchess had been, only to find her gone. 

Drake chuckled. "See something you like?” 

***

Inside the limo, Liam and Riley arrived outside an upscale restaurant in the city center.

Bastien opened rhe passenger door and Liam stepped out, holding out his hand for Riley. She took it and climbed out of the limo. She gasped when she looked at the building in front of her. "This is beautiful." 

"You are beautiful," Liam smiled. "And tonight, you will be dining on the best seafood this side of Paris." 

"That's a high bar to live up to." Riley's eyebrows raised. 

Liam chuckled. "It can certainly get the job done." 

They were escorted inside the restaurant, with Liam's hand on the small of her back as they were led to a secluded table overlooking the city center. 

Liam pulled out Riley's chair and she sat down, exposing her long tanned leg through the side slit of her cocktail dress. He sat down and his eyes drank in the sight of her, his gaze lingering on her legs. 

Riley blushed. 

"I'm sorry, I didn't mean to stare." Liam looked down. 

Riley reached across the table and took his hand in hers. "Look all you want, Your Majesty." 

Liam lifted his head and locked eyes with her, his blue orbs sparkling. "I have wanted to do this since the night of the Coronation Ball. You were breathtaking that night. I wanted to sweep you into my arms and dance the night away with you. But there was always someone or something getting in the way." 

Riley grasped Liam's hands in hers ...

"Mmm, this whole place smells like fresh bread. I want to eat that smell." 

"I will order the kitchen to prepare you a fresh loaf immediately." Liam grinned. 

Riley threw her head back and laughed. 

"Please do. After Olivia's challenges, I feel like I could devour this entire restaurant." 

"I love the sound of your laugh," Liam whispered. 

Riley's heart skipped a beat. 

Liam's grin widened. "I hope we have many more dates just like this. After Olivia's unique brand of 'help', we've definitely earned this day." 

Riley giggled. "That was the nicest way of saying Olivia was a royal pain in the ass." 

Liam let out a chuckle. "That was very diplomatic of me, thank you." 

Liam smiled as a steaming breadbasket and the entrees were set down on the table. The waiter tops off Riley's red wine and sets a glass of scotch down for Liam. 

Riley picked up her glass and held it aloft. "A toast. To us." 

"To us," he echoed, clinking his glass against hers. 

As Riley takes a sip, the waiter places a small dish in front of her. Inside is a thick chocolate sauce in the shape of a heart, the word "love" written in script, and two berries. 

Riley looked from the dish to Liam, her lips curled into a mischievous smile. "Chocolate covered strawberries? Are you trying to seduce me, Liam?" 

"That depends," Liam replied, a matching grin forming on his face. 

"On what?" Riley asked. 

"Whether or not it's working," he whispered. 

Riley's eyes met his and they burned with desire. 

"I'll take that as a yes." His grin widened and he leaned across the table. Liam took Riley's hand in his, his fingers tracing slow circles on the back of her hand. "You are beautiful. I wish we could have been together from the start." 

Riley's lips formed a soft smile. "So do I, Liam. I don't want this night to end." 

"It doesn't have to." Liam reached into his pocket and pulled out a set of keys, laying them on the table between them. 

"Up for a little trip?” 

Riley's eyes widened. "Are you suggesting we run away together?" 

"One of the best kept secrets in Lythikos is a glass igloo tucked away in the mountains. The perfect view of the stars, the perfect view of the valley." 

Riley bit her lip and looked up at him from under her lashes. "I think I might have found the perfect view right here." 

"It's also very secluded. Not another soul for miles." Liam winked. 

Demurely smiling, Riley added, "I can think of a few ways to take advantage of that." 

"So can I ... if you're up for the trip." 

Riley picked up the keys, the smile on her face growing wider. "Let's skip the dinner and jump right to the dessert."

"Then we should leave right now," he suggested, his eyes never leaving hers. After a few calls, Liam stands and offers his arm to Riley. 

Riley slipped her arm through his and together they headed out of the restaurant, and back into the waiting limo. 

The driver was already waiting and pulled the car into the traffic. They passed through the city streets and up into the mountains. It was dark when the car finally pulled up in front of a domed glass structure. Stepping inside, the entire frozen mountainside stretched out around on all sides, a beautiful aurora shined through the ceiling panels. 

"Oh Liam, this place is unreal ... it's all the natural wonder of camping with the comfort of a five star hotel." 

"And a lot more privacy." Liam added.

"After the past few weeks, I really wanted to get you away and alone," Liam softly spoke, his arms slipping around Riley's waist. 

She placed her hands over his. "Me, too. I don't want this day to end." 

"I have one more surprise for you." 

Riley smiled. "Is that why you brought me here? For a surprise?" 

"No. I brought you here because I want to be alone with you." He kissed her cheek, his lips trailing along her jawline and down her neck. 

Riley's eyelids fluttered and she tilted her head back. "Mmm, is that so?" 

Liam nuzzled his nose against the spot behind her ear. "I wanted to do this all evening." 

"What's stopping you now?" 

He grinned. "Nothing." 

Liam pressed his lips to hers. She melted into him and deepened the kiss. His tongue sought hers and they moved together in unison. He cupped her ass and pulled her into him, her curves conforming to his body. 

Riley's hands tangled into his hair, her fingers tugging. Liam moaned into her mouth, his desire rising. Together tumbling back onto the bed, legs tangling as they fall down onto the plush mattress. 

A while later, Liam's fingers combed absently through Riley's hair as they watched the way the colors and lights swirled around, constantly changing.... It was hypnotic. 

"When I look up into the sky ... I see you. I see something beautiful, brilliant, untamable ... a breathtaking force of nature. I know that we have been through a lot, but when you're in my arms like this ... I also know that we can find a way through it together, if you'll let me."

Riley sighed happily. "Liam..."

*I know, love, that I said I wouldn't bring it up again, but after tonight, I need to tell you that I'm so sorry for everything." 

"Liam, it's okay, I know you had to do it. I know the weight of the world was on your shoulders, and you had to do what's best for your people, that's your duty. But you have to also do what's best for yourself. We all do." 

Liam's grip tightened slightly around her waist. "That's what I want. You...

"Riley. I love you. And William. I can't imagine my life without you both in it."

"I love you too, Liam," she whispered. "So much..."

"Do you forgive me?" Liam asked quietly in earnest. 

"Of course, I forgive you. I am so sorry that I was a coward and left without telling you about..."

"SSHHH! There is nothing to forgive you for, Riley. You were just doing what you felt you had to do. I am so sorry that the court was so unfair to you. My father ..." 

"Liam, please. Let's just focus on the present."

"... and the future." LIam added with a kiss...

@choicesficwriterscreations @thosehallowedhalls

[belencha77]

CAPITULO 15 - PARTIDO DE LA UNIDAD

|| No tengo muchos amigos aquí en Portavia; por lo general, solo estamos mis padres, yo y, bueno, estos dos chicos. Al principio, solo tenía a Kiara en la corte, a quien ya conocía. Fue una de las pocas cosas buenas de estar allí. Luego conocí a ustedes. || explica Penélope, mientras se sienta en una silla cercana, su expresión muestra nostalgia.

|| ¿Tan malo fue al principio? || pregunta Maxwell.

|| El palacio es realmente hermoso, el trato siempre ha sido excelente, y la comida siempre está buena... Pero la presión de mis padres para cumplir con la temporada social, encontrar un pretendiente, y hacer feliz a Madeleine, sumada a todas las fiestas y la multitud... || Penélope aprieta las manos en su regazo, visiblemente angustiada. Merlín y Morgana, perceptivos, se acercan a ella; Merlín apoya su barbilla en la rodilla de Penélope y Morgana pone una pata en su mano. Penélope se relaja al ver a sus cachorros y les sonríe. || Gracias, bebés, ¡Voy a estar bien! ||

|| Entiendo lo que sientes, Penélope. A veces, la corte puede ser abrumadora. || le digo, y ella me mira sorprendida.

|| ¿Para ti también fue abrumadora? No lo entiendo; siempre pareces tan segura de ti misma, Riley. ||

|| Puede que lo parezca, pero la verdad es que, al principio, me asustaba mucho. Adaptarme a la corte y cumplir con las expectativas para llegar a Liam fue muy difícil. No nací en este mundo; todo lo que aprendí fue gracias a Max, Bertrand, Hana, Liam y hasta Drake. Un error, una palabra mal dicha, un gesto inapropiado, y tu vida puede descarrilarse. Me costó muchas lágrimas y estrés. No es lo mismo que tu experiencia, pero te entiendo. ||

|| Yo también pasé por algo similar. Pero encontré en Riley un gran apoyo. Cualquier persona sensata se sentiría abrumada por estar rodeada de extraños poderosos. || añade Hana.

|| Vaya, pensé que era la única. || dice Penélope con alivio. || Ojalá mis padres entendieran esto. ||

|| ¿Tus padres fueron la razón por la que te quedaste después de la coronación? || pregunto con curiosidad.

|| Sí, especialmente mi mamá. Ella pensó que cuanto más tiempo pasara en la corte, más fácil sería para mí. Aunque me ama, nunca entendió lo difícil que era. Mi papá sí lo entiende ahora. Cuando era pequeña, mi mamá contrajo una neumonía grave justo antes de un gran baile benéfico. Papá le dijo que no fuera, pero ella insistió. Estuvo postrada en cama durante días después, pero estaba feliz de haber asistido. Su lema siempre ha sido "Defiende a Portavia pase lo que pase". Ella cree que si yo lo intento con todas mis fuerzas, podría superar cualquier dificultad. ||

|| Lo siento mucho, Penélope. || digo sinceramente. A partir de sus palabras, entiendo mucho sobre ella y sus actitudes.

|| Gracias, Riley. Es bueno tener a más personas, además de mi papá y estos dos, que me entiendan. || Penélope sonríe a sus cachorros.

|| Penélope, si alguna vez decides volver a la corte, recuerda que tus cachorros pueden ir contigo. || le aseguro con una sonrisa. Ella me mira sorprendida.

|| ¿Es en serio? Pero Madeleine siempre decía que... || comienza Penélope, pero la interrumpo.

|| Eso era Madeleine. Tu futura reina ha decidido lo contrario. || le digo con una sonrisa amplia, haciendo que todos rían. || Si decides volver, tus cachorros estarán invitados. ||

|| Vaya Riley, gracias || dice Penélope con una gran sonrisa mientras se levanta de su silla. || Puedo ver que sigues teniendo ese corazón noble. Regresar a la corte será complicado para mí, pero hacerlo demostraría a los enemigos que Cordonia está más unida que nunca. La gente necesita vernos juntos, sin importar cuán asustados estemos. Todos seremos más fuertes si permanecemos unidos. Estas fueron tus palabras en la rueda de prensa, así que… || Ella pausa, reflexionando sobre sus palabras antes de mirarme y sonreír. || Yo… Yo lo haré, Riley. Iré a la corte contigo. ||

|| ¿De verdad? || pregunto, incrédula.

|| De verdad. Si esta demostración de unidad es realmente importante, y especialmente si prometes que las cosas serán diferentes ahora que Madeleine no está a cargo. Creo en ti y estaré aquí para apoyarte. ||

|| Muchas gracias, Penélope. || exclamo, abrazándola con fuerza. Ella se sonroja ante el gesto.

|| Me di cuenta de que Cordonia es mi hogar. Por eso, en todo caso, siento que le debo algo… Y ustedes son mis amigos. No puedo defraudarlos. ||

|| Muchas gracias, Penélope, de verdad. || le digo, tomando sus manos y apretándolas ligeramente.

|| Bueno, mis chicas lindas, es hora de irnos. Debemos prepararnos para el partido de mañana. || dice Maxwell.

**

A la mañana siguiente, me desperté temprano para prepararme para el gran partido. Al salir de la ducha, encontré a Liam completamente listo, mirándose con atención en el espejo.

|| Hola, mi amor || me dice, mirándome a través del reflejo. Me acerco y envuelvo mis brazos alrededor de él, sintiendo su calor.

|| ¿Por qué no entraste a hacerme compañía en la ducha? || le digo de manera coqueta, inclinándome hacia él con una sonrisa traviesa. Él se da la vuelta y me da un apasionado beso, dejándome sin aliento, antes de mirarme con una expresión juguetona.

|| Me hubiera encantado, pero tengo algunos asuntos importantes que atender, mi hermosa reina. Pero no me tientes demasiado, porque, al fin y al cabo, soy solo un hombre || dice, con un brillo travieso en los ojos. Ambos reímos || Por cierto, al parecer, Emma y Landon se emocionaron tanto que organizaron los equipos para el partido de hoy. El primer equipo seremos Hana, Penélope, tú y yo || agrega Liam, con una sonrisa de complicidad.

|| ¡Qué bien! Con nosotros cuatro, sin duda seremos un equipo imbatible || exclamo emocionada, acercándome un poco más a él.

|| Sin duda, amor. Mientras que el otro equipo estará compuesto por Drake, Maxwell, Rashad y... Charles ||

|| Oh, eso va a ser divertido || le digo con una risita traviesa. || Aunque creo que Drake no estará muy contento con la noticia, especialmente porque está en el mismo equipo que Charles. No hace falta decir que Charles es un imbécil ||

Liam suelta una risa baja, su mirada se suaviza con complicidad.

|| Bueno, veremos cómo se las arreglan. A veces la vida necesita un poco de picante, ¿no crees? || Ambos reímos. Liam mira su reloj || Bueno, parece que aún tenemos un pequeño margen || dice con una sonrisa traviesa. Me toma de la mejilla y nos acercamos para compartir un apasionado beso. El beso se vuelve cada vez más intenso, casi como si estuviera a punto de llevarnos a un lugar más profundo, cuando de repente, el sonido de su celular interrumpe la atmósfera. Liam se aparta con un suspiro de frustración, mientras el timbre de la llamada se hace más insistente || ¿Sí? || responde tratando de mantener la calma. || ¿Jacob? ¿Qué sucede? || Escucha atentamente, su expresión se torna un poco seria. || Entiendo. Sí, claro, estaré allí enseguida. || Cuelga con una ligera resignación y me mira con frustración contenida || Parece que la realidad tiene otros planes para nosotros || dice, su tono reflejando su deseo insatisfecho. || Lo siento, amor. El deber llama, pero prometo que te compensaré esta noche. ||

Le sonrío tiernamente y Liam deposita un suave beso en mis labios antes de salir por la puerta, dejando una promesa de lo que está por venir.

**

Momentos después de que Liam salió, Anita llegó para prepararme y dejarme lista. El único detalle que faltaba era el atuendo que Madeleine traería. Mientras me observaba en el espejo, tocaron a la puerta. Al abrir, Madeleine entró, mirándome de pies a cabeza mientras sostenía un porta trajes.

|| Vaya, estás casi lista. Eso es sorprendente, considerando que es tu primera vez ||, comenta Madeleine con una sonrisa que mezcla admiración y escepticismo.

|| ¿Gracias? … Debo decir que me tomo muy en serio mis nuevas responsabilidades y me esfuerzo al máximo por Cordonia ||, respondo con un tono decidido.

|| Me parece bien. No puedo negar que es agradable ver que pones de tu parte. Mira Riley, quería repasar contigo tu agenda para hoy. En el partido de polo, necesitarás --- || pero la interrumpo antes de que continúe.

|| Lo sé, necesito impresionar a la familia de Penélope, montar un espectáculo, sorprender al público, recaudar dinero, etcétera... || digo con firmeza, notando su sorpresa.

|| ¡Wow!... Bueno, eso es un resumen bastante decente. Pero recuerda que la apariencia puede ser engañosa. Si bien el atuendo es importante, no es todo. La clave está en cómo te desempeñas y cómo te conectas con la gente. Este es nuestro último día en Portavia, y para salir de aquí con éxito, necesitas impresionar tanto a Emma como a Landon. Tu verdadero desafío no es solo el equipo contrario, sino cómo dejas una impresión duradera en las gradas. || Madeleine aclara su garganta y se pone más erguida. || Por lo tanto, escogí esto para ti. || Mientras dice esto, saca del porta trajes un conjunto espectacular. Se trata de unos pantalones blancos de corte impecable que combinan con una camiseta roja brillante, diseñada para resaltar y aportar confianza. Acompañan al conjunto unas largas botas negras de cuero, perfectas para el polo, junto con guantes a juego y un casco elegante que completa el look || Este atuendo no solo es para la ocasión, sino que también está pensado para que te sientas poderosa y segura. La impresión que dejas hoy puede ser decisiva para ganar el apoyo de Emma y Landon, así que asegúrate de dar lo mejor de ti en cada aspecto: tu desempeño, tu presencia y, por supuesto, tu actitud. ||

|| Madeleine, este uniforme es perfecto. ||

|| Lo sé, porque lo escogí yo misma. Los colores representan a Cordonia: tu equipo vestirá de rojo, mientras que tus oponentes estarán en azul. Los demás ya tienen sus uniformes. Ve y pruébatelo. ||

Rápidamente me dirijo al baño para cambiarme. Cuando salgo con el conjunto completamente listo, me doy cuenta de que es ideal. No es por nada, pero Madeleine acertó de pleno. El atuendo es perfecto y hermoso.

|| Madeleine, tenemos nuestras diferencias, pero definitivamente sabes cómo elegir un atuendo || le digo con alegría, mientras ella se dedica a cepillar una pelusa invisible de su vestido. Se nota un toque de orgullo en su sonrisa.

|| Gracias. Espero que este atuendo compense cualquier error que puedas cometer en el campo ||, me dice con una mirada seria. || Y Riley, no avergüences a nuestro país allá afuera. ||

|| Es nuestro país, Madeleine. Y no, no lo haré. || La miro con determinación, respondiendo con sinceridad.

**

Horas después, cuando todos los nobles, incluido Liam, ya estaban vestidos con sus uniformes, nos dirigimos al campo de polo. Al acercarnos, quedé impresionada por la magnitud del evento. Las noticias sobre el partido de exhibición se habían esparcido más lejos de lo que imaginé, pues las gradas estaban abarrotadas de gente.

El bullicio de las conversaciones llenaba el aire, mientras algunos disfrutaban de bocadillos, creando una atmósfera festiva. Desde mi lugar, podía distinguir rostros conocidos entre la multitud: los padres de Liam, los de Penélope y otros nobles que había conocido durante mi tiempo en Cordonia. El campo, con su césped perfectamente cortado y las banderas ondeando al viento, reflejaba un nivel de preparación impresionante.

Era sorprendente ver cómo Madeleine, en tan poco tiempo, había logrado organizar todo con tanta precisión. La atención al detalle y la coordinación de cada aspecto eran evidentes en cada rincón del lugar. Sin duda, había superado las expectativas, y eso solo aumentaba la presión para asegurarnos de que todo saliera perfecto. De repente, Liam me saca de mis pensamientos al acercarse sutilmente y susurrarme al oído.

|| ¿Te he dicho que el rojo es el color que mejor te queda? || murmura, su voz suave y provocadora.

|| Me lo mencionaste alguna vez || le respondo con una sonrisa pícara. || Entonces, ¿Su Majestad está complacido con el uniforme? || Él asiente lentamente, con una mirada intensa que me hace sentir un ligero cosquilleo || Tú tampoco te ves nada mal con ese color || me acerco un poco más, aprovechando la cercanía para susurrar || Pero preferiría verte sin él. ||

Al decir esto, me alejo un poco, riendo suavemente, viendo cómo sus mejillas se sonrojan mientras una risa entre dientes escapa de sus labios.

|| Eso es algo que podríamos arreglar sin problema… pero más tarde || me susurra con los ojos brillando de deseo, haciendo que mi corazón lata un poco más rápido. || ¿Te sientes lista para el juego? ||

|| ¡Estoy lista para acabar con los azules! Realmente no sabrán qué fue lo que los golpeó || exclamo con emoción, mi tono reflejando la seguridad que siento.

|| Afortunadamente, tengo la suerte de estar en tu equipo. ¿Qué sería de mí si no? || dice riendo, mirándome con una mezcla de admiración y diversión.

|| Exacto, es bueno que estés de mi lado || le respondo juguetonamente, dándole un pequeño golpe en el brazo.

De repente, vemos cómo nos llaman a lo lejos, y juntos comenzamos a avanzar hacia el campo. Un mozo de cuadra tiene varios caballos preparados para que podamos escoger. Una vez que cada uno de nosotros tiene el suyo, veo cómo nuestros amigos se acercan con los suyos.

|| ¡Riley, Liam! Buenos días || dice Penélope con emoción, haciendo una pequeña reverencia. Pero cuando los demás se acercan, noto que Drake me mira de una manera diferente. Siento su mirada recorriéndome de arriba a abajo, y aunque trato de ignorarlo, no puedo evitar sentirme incómoda. ¿Será que aún tiene sentimientos por mí? Lo mejor será ignorar esos pensamientos y actuar con normalidad.

|| Hola, chicos. ¿Cómo se sienten todos? || pregunto, tratando de mantener un tono despreocupado.

|| Yo me siento un poco nerviosa, pero creo que son nervios buenos || responde Penélope con una sonrisa.

|| Yo estoy bastante emocionado por el partido de hoy. Ha pasado un buen tiempo desde que puedo jugar al polo en lugar de solo mirarlo desde las gradas || dice Maxwell, su tono entusiasta.

|| Al menos, al mirar el juego, te dan bebidas || exclama Drake, quien ya no me está mirando, lo que me permite soltar un suspiro de alivio.

|| Vamos, Drake, no será tan malo || le dice Maxwell con una sonrisa optimista.

|| Drake, estoy segura de que con tus habilidades para montar te destacarás en el polo. No te preocupes || añade Hana, tratando de darle ánimo.

Drake suelta un suspiro, todavía frunciendo el ceño, y mira hacia el centro del campo donde Charles y Rashad están esperando con el árbitro.

|| Puede que tengas razón, Hana, pero jugar con el ego de Charles en mi equipo no es algo que me emocione || responde Drake, con un tono de resignación mientras señala a Charles, cuya actitud arrogante es evidente incluso desde la distancia.

**

Todos nos subimos a nuestros caballos y comenzamos a avanzar hacia el centro del campo. El murmullo en las gradas se convierte en un estruendo de ovaciones y aplausos, alimentando la emoción en el aire. Puedo sentir la energía de la multitud vibrando a nuestro alrededor, cada mirada fija en nosotros, esperando que este día se convierta en algo memorable. Mi corazón late con fuerza, sabiendo que nuestra idea ha despertado tanta expectación.

El árbitro llama a Liam al centro del campo para darle las últimas indicaciones. Mientras él se aleja, me preparo mentalmente, concentrándome en el juego que está a punto de comenzar. De repente, un caballo se coloca a mi lado.

|| Un buen día para un juego, ¿no, Lady Riley? || dice Rashad con una sonrisa encantadora. Su tono es suave, pero con un toque de coquetería que no pasa desapercibido. || Te ves absolutamente deslumbrante esta mañana. ||

|| Rashad, || respondo con cortesía, inclinando ligeramente la cabeza. || Gracias... Y sí, parece que hoy será un buen día. ||

Charles se acerca e interrumpe nuestra conversación, su tono es algo altanero.

|| Lady Riley, buen día. Como bien dice Rashad, parece que será una mañana magnífica, aunque... || lanza una mirada de desprecio a Drake antes de continuar || podría imaginarme en mejor compañía. ||

|| Por favor, Charles, guarda tus comentarios. Tenemos un juego que ganar, ¿de acuerdo? || responde Drake, visiblemente molesto. Pero antes de que la tensión aumente, Liam regresa y nos dividimos en los equipos: Liam, Hana, Penélope y yo por un lado; Drake, Maxwell, Charles y Rashad por el otro.

|| ¡Es hora de empezar! Solo quiero decir: ¡Que gane el mejor! || exclamo con una mezcla de nervios y emoción.

|| Eso espero... || añade Rashad, mientras Charles me lanza una mirada fría.

El árbitro avanza al centro del campo, levantando una mano para calmar a la multitud. El silencio que sigue es ensordecedor, lleno de anticipación. Puedo sentir los latidos de mi corazón acelerarse, mi caballo inquieto bajo mí, listo para la acción.

|| ¿Listos? || pregunto, buscando confirmar que todos están preparados.

|| ¡Listos! || responden todos al unísono.

|| ¡Hagamos esto! || exclama Drake con determinación.

|| ¡A jugar! || grita Liam, su voz llena de energía.

|| ¡Esto va a ser muy divertido! || añade Penélope, claramente emocionada.

El árbitro lanza la pelota al centro del campo, y todo parece detenerse por un segundo. El sonido de los cascos golpeando el suelo resuena en mis oídos, el aire se llena de la tensión del momento. Y entonces, el juego comienza. Mi caballo se lanza hacia adelante, la adrenalina corre por mis venas mientras me concentro en la pelota, en el campo, en todo lo que está en juego. Es como si el mundo se hubiera reducido a este momento, a este juego. Y estoy lista para darlo todo.

♕♕

El final del partido llega con una mezcla de agotamiento y adrenalina en el aire. Mis manos aún sostienen las riendas firmemente mientras trato de recuperar el aliento después de la intensa competencia. El sonido del silbato del árbitro corta el aire, señalando el término del juego, y todo parece detenerse por un momento. Los caballos, sudorosos y cansados, disminuyen su ritmo, mientras todos los jugadores, incluyéndome a mí, giramos nuestras miradas hacia el centro del campo, donde el árbitro se prepara para dar su veredicto.

No soy una experta en polo, pero puedo sentir la importancia de este momento. Las gradas, que hace unos minutos vibraban con el entusiasmo del público, ahora están en un silencio expectante. Veo cómo los jueces conversan entre ellos, sus gestos serios y concentrados, y mi corazón late con fuerza, esperando lo que vendrá.

De repente, el árbitro señala en nuestra dirección, y aunque no entiendo todos los detalles, el rugido de la multitud lo dice todo: ¡hemos ganado! Una ola de emoción me invade, mezclándose con el alivio de saber que todo el esfuerzo ha valido la pena. Penélope, que está a mi lado, grita de alegría, y su incredulidad refleja la mía.

|| ¡Dios mío, ganamos! || exclama, sus ojos brillando mientras aplaude con una energía contagiosa.

Liam, montado en su caballo cerca de mí, se gira con una sonrisa de triunfo que ilumina su rostro. El orgullo en su mirada es inconfundible, y su voz está cargada de una satisfacción profunda.

|| ¡Sabía que lo lograríamos! || dice, con una convicción que me hace sonreír.

Desmontamos de nuestros caballos y comenzamos a llevarlos de vuelta a los establos. Mientras camino, todavía con la adrenalina recorriendo mis venas, siento el bullicio de la multitud resonando a mi alrededor, celebrando nuestra victoria. Es un sonido que no olvidaré fácilmente.

En el camino de regreso, Liam y yo somos interceptados por Landon y Emma, quienes se acercan con amplias sonrisas.

|| Su Majestad, duquesa Riley... ¡Realmente montaron un espectáculo impresionante hoy! || exclama Emma, y aunque quizás yo no entienda todas las reglas del polo, su entusiasmo es innegable.

|| Fue un placer, || responde Liam, y en ese momento, noto cómo los pequeños cachorros de Penélope corren hacia nosotros, moviendo sus colitas con una energía desbordante. La visión de estos adorables animales me hace sonreír aún más.

|| ¡Qué adorables! || digo, inclinándome para acariciar a uno de los cachorros, sintiendo cómo la calidez de este pequeño momento equilibra perfectamente la intensidad del partido que acabamos de jugar.

|| Los traje para que disfruten del espectáculo. Además, pensé que Penélope querría verlos, ya que... || Landon comienza a explicar, pero es rápidamente interrumpido por la euforia de Penélope.

|| ¡MERLÍN… MORGANA! || grita ella, llena de alegría, apresurándose a dar un gran abrazo a cada uno de sus cachorros. || ¡Ohhh, mis pequeños! ¡Cuánto los extrañé a los dos! ¿Llegaron a verme jugar en el campo? || les pregunta emocionada, hablándoles con una ternura palpable. Luego, levanta la mirada hacia sus padres con curiosidad. || Papá, mamá, ¿qué les pareció el partido? ||

|| Sinceramente, no he visto un juego así desde que Landon colgó su mazo, || comenta Emma, con una sonrisa entusiasta.

|| Me halagas, querida, pero debo decir que ni siquiera en mi mejor momento vi algo como lo que presenciamos hoy. Lo hicieron genial, || añade Landon, con orgullo. || De hecho, acabo de recibir el total proyectado de donaciones, y parece que es suficiente para apuntalar nuestros fondos de ayuda. ||

|| ¡Wow! Eso es fantástico, Landon, || exclama Liam, compartiendo la alegría.

|| Muchas gracias, Liam. Sinceramente, esto significará mucho para Portavia, || dice Landon con genuina emoción.

|| Así es, me uno a las palabras de mi esposo. Esto no habría sido posible sin ustedes, especialmente gracias a ustedes dos. Estoy bastante optimista acerca de nuestra capacidad para ayudar, || comenta Emma, mirando a Liam y a mí con gratitud. Sin embargo, Landon interviene rápidamente || ¿Podrían darnos un momento, por favor? Tenemos que revisar las cifras, || nos explica.

|| Por supuesto, || respondo tranquila, aunque por dentro siento un mar de nervios. Inmediatamente, Emma, Landon y Penélope se alejan unos pasos, y Landon comienza a verificar algunas cifras en su teléfono mientras conversan entre ellos.

|| Bueno, este es el momento de la verdad, || me dice Liam en un susurro.

|| ¡Cielo santo! ¿Crees que asistirán a la boda? || pregunto con curiosidad, pero más que nada, ¿nos brindarán su apoyo?

Nos quedamos en silencio, observando cómo Landon y Emma discuten en voz baja. La espera se siente interminable, y el leve susurro del viento es el único sonido que rompe la tensión en el aire. Mi corazón late con fuerza, consciente de lo que está en juego.

Liam toma mi mano, entrelazando sus dedos con los míos, como si quisiera compartir la carga de la incertidumbre. Nuestros ojos se encuentran por un instante, y en ese silencio compartido, solo queda esperar.

@tessa-liam, @kingliam2019, @choicesficwriterscreations, @delmissesryanandcassi, @OneNoeOne

@scentedeclipseghosteggs, @s0m3thingkmp, @gabycros, @abc-ds-things, @alexabeta

@busywoman, @phantom-of-thee-library, @itsweigel, @peonierose, @fancy--marshmallow

@roseyos, @mysticalfangirl, @renvconta19, @queenmiarys, @ange101sblog

@ojoscolorjuupiter, @its-a-vanilla-sky, @amor-a-la-luna

If anyone else wants to be tagged, just let me know. I hope you enjoy this wonderful love adventure.

[kristinamae093]

Ghosted

Ghosted- Blindsided (Chapter 1)

Series Summary - Prince Liam fell for Riley Brooks hard and fast. A marriage filled with love and devotion was within his reach. But everything changed when she vanished just before the end of the social season. As everyone voices their concerns regarding her scandalous departure, a confession from an unlikely source turns Liam's world upside down and makes him question everything around him.

Book/Pairing - TRR- Liam x F!MC (Riley Brooks), hints of Liam x Madeleine

A/N1: This AU starts right before the beginning of the engagement tour. There is a two-month lapse between the coronation and where we pick up, but we will stray from canon.

A/N2: This has been heavily preread by a number of amazing people. There's so many to list, and most of you requested to be tagged anyway. But you know who you are, and your help and guidance has been crucial during this process.

Characters belong to Pixelberry.

Liam quickly made his way through the halls of the Applewood Estate, intent on reaching his destination. He had received a text from Maxwell requesting him to come to Lady Riley’s room. Although bewildered and slightly concerned, the Prince agreed to Maxwell's summons at such an early hour. 

He approached the door and knocked; Maxwell quickly opened it and ushered him inside without saying a word. Liam took notice of Maxwell’s red-rimmed, swollen eyes. His usual peppy demeanor was nowhere to be found, instead replaced with despondency. He began pacing back and forth anxiously in the space between the couch and the bed. 

As Liam entered the room, he saw Bertrand in a chair in the corner; his elbows were on his knees, his head rested in his palms. His shoulders subtly shook, and Liam swore he could hear his breath hitch. Bertrand did not stand for or acknowledge the Prince’s entrance, not that Liam wanted him to; it was just very un-Bertrand-like and gave Liam an uneasy feeling in his stomach. 

And he didn’t see Riley.

“Maxwell, what’s going on?” Liam asked as he took a couple of slow, cautious steps further inside.

“It’s…It’s Riley…”

Liam gave Maxwell a quizzical look. “What’s wrong? Where is she?” He felt his heart rate quicken immediately. The air in his lungs suddenly had a burning sensation with every breath he took. 

Maxwell stopped his movements and turned to him, “That’s just it… She’s… She’s gone…” he covered his face, as his emotions began spilling over. He took a deep, shaky breath before he started again, “I came to get her this morning to leave, and…”

“What do you mean, she’s gone? She’s here somewhere! Perhaps she’s at breakfast… o-or with Hana.” 

“Look in the closet! Look in the dresser! Everything’s gone!” Maxwell cried and resumed his earlier steps.

Liam turned and strode to the closet, stopping to flip on the light switch. Empty.

He rushed across the room to the dresser and ripped open all the drawers. Empty. 

Liam stood and stared wide-eyed at the empty drawers. He ran his trembling hands through his hair as his mind raced, trying helplessly to find a solution that made sense. However, he could hear no coherent thoughts at that moment over the sound of his heart as it thundered in his ears. The burn in his chest intensified; his windpipe felt as if it were slowly constricting with every labored breath he took.

“What?! No…. No…. You-you were supposed to leave in a little while, right? That’s why she packed all her belongings. She-she could have left before you or-”

Drake heard the commotion from his room next door and barged into the room. Liam turned from his spot by the dresser to face him, his usual stoic facade replaced with a distressed expression that made Drake’s anxiety heighten. Maxwell stopped his movements to face him, but quickly started again. Bertrand raised his gaze momentarily, but immediately put his head back in his hands once he saw who it was at the door. 

Drake slowly entered the room and cautiously approached Liam. “Um……… Everything alright here?” 

“No! They’re saying Riley’s gone! That’s… that’s absurd! I just spoke with her last night!” Liam barked. 

Drake’s eyes widened, but he shook his head. “No way! I would’ve heard her! I was right next door.” He turned to face Maxwell. “She’s here somewhere, Beaumont. Stop freaking people out over nothing! Did you even try calling her?!” 

“Of course, I tried calling her! I’m not a complete idiot! That’s how I found this!” Maxwell huffed as pulled a phone from his pocket.

Riley’s phone.

Both men froze and stared, perplexed, at the phone in Maxwell’s hand. They slowly turned their attention back to his face. Maxwell looked up to meet Liam’s gaze and saw the anger and confusion in his eyes. 

Liam had grown impatient and moved to where he stood in front of Maxwell. “I demand to know what is going on. NOW!” He bellowed as he leaned over the shorter man.

Maxwell winced at Liam’s volume. He closed his eyes and took a deep, shaky breath to stabilize himself before he started. “I knocked on the door like I always do, and she didn’t answer. I turned the doorknob just to see if it was open, and it was. So, I came in…” He tried to swallow the lump in his throat, but it was to no avail. “I looked around and noticed her stuff was gone, but it didn’t phase me at the time since we were supposed to leave soon... So I… I called her……”

“Out with it, Beaumont!” Drake shouted. 

Before Maxwell could respond, Bertrand piped up from his spot in the corner, head still in his hands, “Show them.” Both men snapped their heads over to Bertand, then slowly panned back to Maxwell, who had returned his gaze to the floor. 

When Maxwell met their eyesight again, his tears streamed freely down his face, “I could hear her phone ringing... I… I found it inside the bedside table…. And I found this with it…” He pulled a folded up piece of paper out of his pocket, and carefully sat it on top of the phone.  

Liam took the device and paper gingerly. The room was silent, aside from heavy breaths of anticipation. He stared at the paper for what felt like hours before he slowly unfolded it. His heart shattered into a million tiny pieces as he read it:

I’m sorry.

-R

A knock on his study door interrupted Liam from his daze. He spun away from his position at the window behind his desk and sat up straight in his chair. He busied his hands with a stack of papers that lay in front of him before he granted them entrance. 

“Hey, Li.” Liam looked up and saw Drake enter, and stood to shake his hand as he approached his desk. 

Liam headed towards the bar cart in the corner and poured a drink of scotch for himself and Drake. He took both glasses and went back to his desk; he handed Drake one as he went before he settled back into his chair. 

“So, what brings you by, Drake?”

“Oh, I was out and about, thought I’d stop by. I was actually hoping to bust you outta this place for a bit. Hit that bar we used to go to, even invited the Beaumonts.” 

Liam feigned shock. “You, Drake Walker, invited the Beaumonts?!”

“I can take it back.” Drake smirked with a shrug.

“No, I was just shocked you willingly want to hang out with Maxwell. And they’re actually going to come this time?”

“Max is. Sounded excited. He said he was more than ready to ‘trade the spreadsheets in for a dance floor’,” Drake rolled his eyes, “but it’ll be nice to see him, kinda miss that little fucker.”

“I agree. He always had a way of making things lighter. Well, before….” Liam trailed off and stared blankly past Drake to the fireplace. 

“Yeah, I know. I feel bad for them. But nobody saw that shit coming, nobody.” Drake sighed before continuing, “Look, man, let the past be the past. Stop sitting here sulking! Look to the future!”

“I don’t know what’s worse, thinking about the past, or a future with Madeleine.” Liam made a face of disgust. 

“Touche, but you’re a smart man! I know you can get out of that! I don’t know how, but I’m sure you can find a hidden Royal loophole or some shit!”

Liam let out a heavy breath. “I wish it were true, but at this moment, I am indeed engaged to Madeleine, with no end in sight.”

“That doesn’t mean you can’t try to be happy, Liam!” 

Liam ran a hand down his face before he responded, “I don’t think I know what happiness is anymore,” in a soft voice.

“Come on, Liam. Let’s go out and have some beers, like we used to! Forget about all the bullshit for one night? Especially before the engagement tour kicks off.” Drake suggested hopefully.

“I’ll have to let you know about that. Actually, I have a dinner meeting with the French ambassador, and I’m not sure how late it will be when we’re finished.” Liam gave Drake a sad smile. “But please make sure they stop by if they show up. They should not be trying to hide from me, anyway. I’m their friend. And if anyone understands and sympathizes with the mess they’ve found themselves in, it’s me.”

Drake returned Liam’s sad smile before he stood once more and extended his hand for a handshake. As their hands met, they heard a sharp knock at the door. Liam followed Drake across the room and patted him on the back as he did so. When he opened the door, both his and Drake’s jaws hit the floor.

“Olivia!?” they both gasped at once.

“Surprised to see me?” Olivia smirked as she strode past them into the room and sat on the couch in front of the fireplace. 

Liam and Drake stood, eyes wide and mouths agape, staring at her. She crossed her legs and rested her hands in her lap, and began tapping her manicured nails on her thigh. After a few moments, she rolled her eyes and quipped, “Most people usually greet one with a ‘hello’ or, in my case, ‘Greetings, esteemed Duchess Olivia Nevrakis’.”

Liam closed the door and he and Drake crossed the room to the set of chairs in front of the couch Olivia sat upon. They remained silent, each trying to gather their thoughts. 

Finally, Liam spoke. “Where have you been?” 

“Around.” 

Liam scoffed, “I was going to pick you but you fucking disappeared! You left me wondering why not one, but two of my suitors hightailed it!”

Olivia kept her tone neutral, despite Liam’s apparent anger. “I didn’t have a choice… I received a letter the night of your coronation. It said if I refused to leave, they would release a media narrative exposing my parents' true demise.” 

Liam felt indignant. “What?! But they died in a political assassination, Olivia! We’ve known this since we were children!”

“That’s what I thought as well, but along with the letter, I received evidence. They did not die protecting the Crown, they died trying to overthrow the Crown.” Olivia pulled a manila file folder from her bag. She opened it and put the letter, along with the proof, on the table in front of them. 

Liam scanned over every detail as his mind overflowed with questions. Olivia’s admission shook him, but he remained steadfast with his frustration over her secrecy. Drake sat next to him with his own stunned expression as his mind developed questions and assumptions of his own. 

As he continued to filter through the papers, Liam looked at Olivia with narrowed eyes and snapped, “Why didn’t you tell me?! I could have helped you!” 

Olivia looked away from Liam and quietly said, “I… held my parents on a pedestal for so long. To have all that information dumped on me at once…” she shook her head, “I just fled… I wish I hadn’t, but at the time…”

Although he continued to feel slightly frustrated Olivia hadn’t told him, Liam relented. “I wish you would have said something before you left, but I also understand your reasoning. You obviously know I had my own… things happen that night, so I cannot hold your reaction against you.”

Olivia didn’t respond, but nodded her head in acknowledgement. Liam continued, “Who sent you this?”

“I’m not sure. I tracked it through six different middlemen, but I’ve hit a dead end. All I know is whoever did this went to great lengths to keep their identity hidden.”

Olivia regarded her friend and King sitting in front of her closely, as he continued through the documents. Even before she started dropping truth bombs on him, he didn’t look like Liam. His eyes were tired, the bags notable. She noticed a forming 5 o’clock shadow on his face and saw that his forehead appeared permanently creased with worry lines. 

Olivia had been watching the news to see how Liam was faring during his first couple months as King. She could see his eyes, devoid of emotion, as he gave press interviews. He gave a forced smile, and his shoulders slouched ever so slightly. His voice missed that gusto he used to have, and his laughs were clearly a front. To anyone else, he was Liam, being the dutiful King. But Olivia knew him better than that. Even from afar, she could tell Riley’s sudden departure and the scandal had taken a toll on him. 

Olivia wasn’t sure how Liam felt about the rumor, or if he looked into her disappearance at all. She knew that approaching the subject could go a multitude of ways, but she had to take her chances. In the couple of months since Liam’s ascension, Olivia had plenty of time to piece things together. But Liam hadn’t known about the blackmail they had threatened her with. 

Olivia sat forward and tentatively asked, “Liam, what do you know about the Riley situation?” 

Liam scoffed, “What do you mean ‘Riley situation’? She disappeared! Left a note and vanished. But apparently not before fucking Tariq!” he huffed.

Okay, anger it is, Olivia thought to herself. She sat forward and leveled her eyes with his. “Did you do an investigation?”

“Bastien searched for her after she left and found nothing.” 

“But did you inspect the estate? Or her room? Any place that could have held some kind of trace?” 

“I was a little busy, Olivia. The Social Season couldn’t come to a standstill.” 

“I get that, but you didn’t think to investigate after the fact? You just accepted that Riley had apparently chosen to run off into the night with Tariq, of all people?”

“What was I supposed to do? Put the Social Season on hold hoping to find a ghost? Or waste time trying to find her after I took the throne, when I clearly had more important matters to attend to? She packed her shit and left without a word to anyone. And yes… apparently with Tariq.” Liam snapped as he shook his head

"Are you serious right now?" Olivia exasperated, her face in a completely dumbfounded expression. 

"There isn’t even any evidence to support this baffling theory you’ve concocted!”

“Oh, but there is, if you know what to look for,” Olivia smirked. 

“I don’t have time for this. I have a dinner meeting soon and I need to prepare.” Liam insisted as he stood from his chair and walked back to his desk. 

“You don’t find it at all odd that someone took photos of her from outside a fucking window? How did they even get such an angle when Riley’s room was on the second floor of the estate?” Olivia questioned from her position on the couch.

“Maybe they just got caught doing something they weren’t supposed to be doing.” Liam retorted, as he gathered stacks of paper on his desk. 

“Liam, man, I think you should hear her out…” Drake cautiously said as he stood from his chair and crossed the room to stand in front of Liam. 

“Why? Why should I?” Liam asked, face red with indignation, “You just told me to leave the past in the past. Now suddenly it’s okay?”

“Look, all I’m saying is it would make sense.” Liam gave Drake a scowl, but he continued, “I don’t want to believe that the Brooks we knew would do that! If there’s a chance that something happened to her, or she got set up, I wanna know…”

Liam squinted his eyes at Drake before he snapped, “Maybe we didn’t know her at all!!” 

“I call bullshit! I think you know deep down, she did not run away with fucking Tariq!” Olivia abruptly interjected. She had to count to ten in her head, as any sense of calm she had felt was quickly vanishing as Liam remained in denial.

In all honesty, Liam wanted to believe something was amiss in the beginning. When Bastien searched for her and found no signs of her in New York, it devastated Liam. He assumed she had left because the pressure of being with him was too great a burden to carry. He went through the last bit of the social season like the good Prince he was supposed to be. Although he felt numb, like a large portion of himself had disappeared with Riley.

Liam had thought of a last-minute plan to continue his search for her, but abandoned all efforts when the scandal came to light. His devastation turned to rage, mostly stemming from public humiliation. He knew the blame ultimately lay with himself for his reaction to the story, but it was easier to blame Riley; she was not around to defend herself, anyway, and no evidence proved otherwise.

Liam convinced himself that her affair with Tariq was the answer to the question of why Riley had left. Although, he often found his heart to be in turmoil with his head over the decision. 

Liam had since thrown himself into his work. He found the longer he kept his Crown on, the less time he spent spiraling into the ‘what ifs’. It was useless to fight against it, although he found it to be easier to ignore as time carried on.

More than that, he needed to mend the dent his reputation had suffered right off the bat. His reign began with disgrace and indignity; he was bound and determined he would not find himself back in that position again.

But as Liam stood there and listened to Olivia and Drake, he could physically feel the brief glimmer of hope he had buried so long ago start flickering within. It was incredibly subtle, but there nonetheless.

Liam sighed and reluctantly walked back to the chair across from Olivia, Drake close behind. 

“Okay. I’ll listen.” Liam said as he sat down, his tone neutral. 

Olivia pulled a set of the photos of Riley and Tariq out of her manila folder. Although they appeared substantially enlarged compared to the small tabloid size Liam and Drake had seen before.  

She presented them with an image, a closer shot of Riley and Tariq, Riley's back pressed against the window. She held it up to them and continued, "There’s no sign of physical affection on Riley’s part. See her arms? It looks as if they're directly at her sides, there's no extension to her elbows whatsoever. Not anything huge, but worth noting in my eyes, considering she isn’t touching him in any photo."

“Her touching him is the least of my worries here, Olivia.” Liam snapped.

Olivia picked up a different picture, another close up of Riley and Tariq, but their bodies had marginally turned. “This one, you can see her head turned slightly to the side. If you look closely, you can see discoloration around her eye, as well as what appears to be a laceration on her cheek.” She sat the photo on the table for Liam and Drake to see. 

“Could have been different lighting, a shadow, anything. This proves nothing.” Liam shook his head, his irritation escalating.  

Olivia did not say a word, only sat a photo on the table that was a full view of the entire window. The angle remained similar, but this was the only one where Riley and Tariq had completely changed positions; this time they stood face to face. Riley's back was nearly out of view, but a hand of Tariq's was around her waist. Her face was hidden facing the opposite direction, but Tariq wore a wide grin on his that was clear as day, even in the low lit night. But that is not what had been troubling Olivia the most. 

“This is the original. At first glance, all you would see is Tariq and Riley. But when you increase the exposure…” Olivia trailed off and reached for yet another photo; the same as before, but much brighter. 

Liam and Drake sat forward, each man hunting intently to see the relevance. Drake saw it first and gasped when he spotted it. Liam turned to Drake with a look of puzzlement, silently asking what he had found. Drake pointed to a corner of the photograph, away from Riley and Tariq.

“Is… is that?” Drake stammered.

“A person? Yes.” Olivia answered with certainty.

“Who is it?” 

“I can’t tell who it is. I spoke with someone about trying to do facial recognition, but they said because of the quality of the photo blown up, it wouldn’t be possible. The original is too dark to even recognize a face.”

“So it’s a dead end, and this has been a waste of time!” Liam exclaimed. He shook his head and sharply sighed before he continued, “Look, Olivia, I appreciate what you were trying to do, but this isn’t a mystery. She left.”

“You still don’t see it, do you?”

“No, I saw it. There’s an excellent possibility it’s once again just a shad-”

“Do not say it’s a fucking shadow, Liam! You can clearly see a person’s silhouette there!”

“But not prominent enough to be identified.” Liam said in a flat tone. 

Olivia rolled her eyes before she snapped, “Okay. So it’s unidentifiable. But can we talk about why there’s some random person in the corner watching while they’re apparently ‘having relations’?!”

Liam became mute, aside from his heavy breaths, the agitation he felt written all over his face. Although a part of him wanted to counter, he couldn’t establish a response to Olivia’s question.

Olivia smirked at Liam’s silence. “That’s what I thought.”

“I think it’s worth checking out…” Liam snapped his head over to Drake with a look of annoyance, but Drake continued. “You can’t deny there’s someone else in this picture, Liam!” 

“How do we know these are real and not fabricated?!”

Olivia narrowed her eyes at Liam. “You think I’d bring you doctored photos? Really?”

“I’m not saying you would purposefully! I'm only saying it's a possibility!” 

Drake answered, “We’ve spent all this time wondering what happened and why she left. We finally have some kind of lead, and you don’t want to check it out?”

Liam groaned and ran a hand down his face. “Even if I wanted to investigate further, once the Engagement Tour starts I will be incredibly busy. I don’t have the time, nor the patience, to investigate grainy photos.” He stood from his chair and rushed back to his desk. “I’m glad you’re here, Olivia. Hopefully, you’ll be joining us on the engagement tour. If you two will excuse me, I must be going.” 

Olivia and Drake watched as Liam quickly gathered his belongings, strode to the door, and slammed it shut behind him. They sat in silence for a few moments, each trying to gather their thoughts about the situation that sat in front of them. 

Drake finally quietly spoke. “You think something could’ve happened to her?”

Olivia sighed, her eyes softening at the question. “I really don’t know. I have a hunch that my blackmail and whatever happened to Riley share a relation. If I wouldn’t have left, there would have been two scandals that hit the news cycle that night. That doesn’t sound coincidental to me.”

“No, it doesn’t. But what do we do about Liam?”

“Has he been like this since the coronation?”

Drake exhaled and nodded his head. “Pretty much, yeah. He goes back and forth from depressed to straight up pissed off. I’ve never seen him so unhinged. After she first left, it was almost like he was grieving a loved one who had passed away.”

Olivia rolled her eyes. “Oh yes, I very much remember watching Liam sulk in the corner with you all night at the Beaumont Bash.”

“Yeah. But after the coronation, you could almost see the switch flip. He wasn’t really sad anymore, just fucking enraged. Wouldn’t talk about her, wouldn’t even let me talk about her. He’d get irate and leave.”

“Wow.”

“Yeah… He’s calmed down a lot, but I know it’s eating him inside. He can sit here and tell us he doesn’t believe it, but I think he’s known from the beginning that something wasn’t right…”

A brief stillness overtook the room before Drake leaned forward and asked, “You know why he was so mad you left?” 

“Because he got stuck with she-demon?” Olivia chuckled.

“Well yeah, there’s that. But… he had a plan.” 

“A plan?” Olivia asked, her confusion prominent. 

“Yep… He was going to pick you so he could keep looking for Riley after the coronation.” 

Olivia’s eyes widened. “Really?” 

“That’s what he said, anyway. But after the scandal… He never spoke of it again. I don’t know if he gave up because he had to pick Madeleine, and felt like he couldn’t look for her or…” 

“I should be spiteful that I was the second choice to begin with, but I take the utmost satisfaction in knowing Madeleine was publicly the third choice.” Olivia laughed with a sneer. She continued, “But I don’t think for a second he truly believes that bullshit story. He’s only covering his own ass for how he reacted.”

“Oh yeah. Connie ripped him big time for that.” Drake stated with wide eyes. 

“I imagined so.”

A content silence overtook them, aside from the sounds of light rain as it tapped against the windows. Drake sat back, turned his head to the ceiling, and let out a breath of air. 

“I always wondered how she got out of there. There were so many people there, and I was in the room right next to hers…” Drake trailed off.

“And you didn’t hear her, or anything?”

“Not a peep.”

“That is odd.”

Drake sat up and faced Olivia. “I think we should check into this. I know Liam didn’t seem to believe the idea, but there has to be something out there. Some kind of clue, anything. Even if we find out, she really ran off with Tariq.” His face grimaced at the thought. 

“Oh, I plan to. The blackmail I received and whatever happened to Riley have to be connected, I just don’t know how, yet. But they’re messing with the Duchess of Lythikos, and I don’t take kindly to threats.” 

“Well, I wanna help.”

Drake’s phone chimed with a text message. He pulled it out of his pocket and saw that Maxwell had answered his earlier text. He quickly shot a response before he turned back to Olivia. “I’m gonna go meet Maxwell for a couple of drinks. You wanna come? Maybe Max knows something, or we can try to assemble a plan of some sort.”

Olivia debated it briefly before she let out a heavy breath. She rubbed her index finger and thumb over her nose and whispered to herself, “Zenobia give me strength.” 

Tags (If you'd like to be removed at any time, just let me know.): @choicesficwriterscreations @ao719 @txemrn @imashybish @emkay512 @queenrileyrose @kingliam2019 @riseandshinelittleblossom @dcbbw @tessa-liam @twinkleallnight @amandablink @cordonia-gothqueen @sfb123 @harleybeaumont @bebepac @charlotteg234 @aussiegurl1234 @jared2612

[angelasscribbles]

Isle of Misfits Chapter 11: The Final Cut

Fandom: Mostly TRR but a bit of others sprinkled in, as well as some OC's from the first few chapters.

Series: Isle of Misfits, Round Robin 2024, hosted by @choicesprompts

Word Count: 1,981

Drake turned his head to take in Liam standing in the doorway, but he didn’t release Bertrand’s collar. “Not now, Li. I need answers first!”

“I…that…” Bertrand fumbled with the remote control, rewinding then pausing on a close-up of him with the redhead wrapped in his arms. “Look!”

Drake glared at the TV screen for a moment, and then the frown lines on his face eased. He released Bertrand and took a step back. “Oh, that’s not Liv.” Even from behind, he could tell it wasn’t her. He knew every line and curve of her body. If he had paused it sooner, he would have realized his mistake.

“Wait.” Olivia pointed to the date in the upper corner of the screen. “It couldn’t have been me. That was the night I was at that ribbon-cutting ceremony with Raleigh.”

Raleigh Carrera had gotten his shit together in record time. A thorough cleansing of alcohol from his room and a handful of public appearances had put him back on top of his career. He was off on a world tour with firm dinner plans with Olivia and Drake the next time he was in the country.  

Drake whirled on the elder Beaumont. “Are you cheating on my sister?”

“No…ah…” Bertrand turned ten shades of red as he stammered and stuttered. “She…that is…. I mean…”

“What is it, man? Spit it out already!”

Bertrand wanted to fall through the floor, but he managed to grit out, “The redhead is Savannah! She…. ah…”

Drake looked like he wanted to commit murder. “Did you make my sister dress up like that?”

“What? Heavens no! It was her idea!”

“Her idea?”

“Yes! This time, she wanted to be a redhead. Last month it was blond…she…ah…sometimes she likes to…um…. role play and…. well…”

All the blood drained from Drake’s face. “Shut up! That’s enough! No one needs to hear anything else!”

Olivia’s delighted laughter cut through the air. “I didn’t know little Savs had it in her. Good for her! Get it, girl!”

Drake shook his head. “Liv, no.”

Bertrand’s face had gone purple as he fought the ignominy. Clearing his throat, he changed the subject. “I think we should address Madeleine’s poor judgment.”

Madeleine gaped at him. “My poor judgment? How about asking why there are reporters on a private island? What about that?”

Bertrand gave his lapels a sharp tug as he regained his composure. “Oh, there will be a thorough investigation into that! Which still doesn’t answer the question as to why you would take one of our clients out in public outside of a prearranged appearance when our policy clearly states—”

“Pfft!” Madeleine flicked her fingers at him. “I didn’t read your employee handbook as I am not your employee! I am here at the behest of the king!”

“Yes, well, about that.” Bertrand straightened his shoulders as he turned to face Liam. “I allowed her to come here to help as a courtesy to you, Your Majesty. However, I’m afraid that I must inform you that the countesses’ services are no longer needed.”

“Of course,” Liam inclined his head slightly. “The Leviathan Group is your business. I’m sorry if I overstepped. I simply wanted to help my brother—”

“Which you did, by sending him here, to me. No other client has been allowed to have friends or family visit during their time with us. Please, Liam. Let me do my job.”

The king looked like he wanted to argue for a moment and then his shoulders slumped. “Yes, of course. I am sorry. I should also apologize for agreeing to help Trystan and then not being able to follow through.”

“It is of no consequence.” Bertrand waved him off. “Liv was able to step in. You have an entire country to run. I shouldn’t have asked.”

“Seriously?” Madeleine fumed. “You know what? That’s fine. Get someone else to help Mr. never met a responsibility he couldn’t ignore or run away from. I’ll be on the next boat back to the mainland.” She spun on her heel and was gone.

“Thank god!” Leo commanded everyone’s attention as he slapped the newspaper again. “But what are we going to do about this?”

“Don’t worry, I’m going to take you under my wing personally,” Bertrand assured him. “And since your wife is here, we’re going to enlist her help.”

Bertrand didn’t say it out loud, but he was fairly certain Katie was the security leak. Reporters had most likely followed her to the island. Though Liam was also a possibility. This was why friends and family weren’t supposed to visit.

Leo rubbed his eyes. “I’m not sure she’s even speaking to me right now.”

“Well, have you tried explaining to her why you were in that bush throwing up outside a Beverly Hills mansion at three a.m. while she was at home with two infants?”

“How the hell was I supposed to know there’d be a reporter there?”

“But why were you there in the first place? With that woman?”

Leo shook his head vehemently from side to side. “That woman just helped me back into the house because I was too drunk to stand on my own!”

“I believe you.” Bertrand clasped a hand on his shoulder. “But you still need to answer why you were there in the first place. For your wife and yourself, honestly. Katie shouldn’t be here, but since she is, I’ve arranged some couples’ counseling for you, and I don’t want to hear any arguments about it.”

Leo opened his mouth, then shut it again. He nodded. Couples’ counseling sounded good. He didn’t want to lose the family he was in the process of building. They meant too much to him.

“Okay, good!” Bertrand squeezed his shoulder tighter, then released it and slapped him on the back. “Why don’t you go talk to her right now?”

Leo nodded again. “Thanks.” He stopped in front of Liam on his way out. “I’m sorry I was such an ass about coming here. You might have saved my marriage, so…thank you for that.”

“I love you, man,” Liam told him as he pulled him into a hug.

“I love you too, little bro.”

After Leo had left the room, Liam shifted from foot to foot awkwardly before blurting out, “So, what’s this about Riley and Max?”

Drake’s jaw clenched. “I’m sorry to have to tell you this, Li, but I saw them together this morning. Max was coming out of her room this morning. Early this morning!”

Liam stared at him in wide-eyed panic as his mind whirled with ways to mitigate this breach of decorum. He knew he could tell Drake anything, but his eyes flicked to Bertrand and Olivia as he scrambled for a cover story. “Ah… he was there to deliver an update about Leo. I was in an early meeting, so I asked him to deliver it to Lady Riley instead.”

Liam held his breath as he waited to see if they bought the story.

Drake’s eyes narrowed. It had been really early. But if Liam didn’t want everyone in the room to know his business, then Drake would respect that, so he simply replied with, “Okay. That makes sense.”

Liam’s body sagged with relief. He wasn’t ready for the world to know about him and Max or Max and Riley, much less him, Max and Riley as a throuple. “I appreciate you looking out for me, Drake. But next time please come to me with any concerns instead of blurting them out in front of others. It’s how rumors get started and I can ill afford those at the very start of my reign.”

Drake gave him a curt nod. “Of course. Sorry.”

Liam waved dismissively in his direction. “Your heart was in the right place. We’ll talk later.” He turned from Drake to Bertrand. “I’m going to say goodbye to my brother and then I promise not to come back unless you invite me. I should have trusted you from the beginning and stayed out of it.”

“I appreciate the trust you’re placing in me, Your Majesty.”

Drake watched Liam leave, then turned to Olivia. “Are you ready? I thought we could grab some—”

The redhead sauntered closer to her boyfriend and ran a hand down his chest, “I would love to do whatever the end of that sentence is but first….” She glanced back at her business partner. “I need to talk to Bert about something real quick. You go on. I’ll meet you in my room in ten.”

He gave her a salacious grin as he pulled her in for a kiss. She started to melt into him before remembering they weren’t alone. Mostly because Bertrand cleared his throat to remind them. She pushed him away with a teasing grin. “Go on. I’ll be along soon enough.”

When Drake was out of the room, she turned to Bertrand with a steely glare. “Would you like to tell me why the west wing has been closed off since our first night here?”

Bertrand’s body jerked. His eyes widened. “Oh… ah… we just aren’t using—”

“Cut the shit, Bert!” Olivia crossed the room to stand defiantly in front of him. “When I can’t sleep, I walk. I saw the ambulance that night. There were no lights, no sirens but I know what I saw.”

Bertrand let out a long sigh as his shoulders slumped. “It will be a relief to tell someone. One of our guests, an aging actor looking to make a comeback, was… done away with that night.”

Olivia blinked. “You mean murdered?”

Bertrand nodded. He had told Max it was a bad dream…. and it had been. But it had also happened.

“And you swept it under the rug because a murder the first night of your new business venture would be bad publicity?”

He nodded again.

“Any clues who it was?”

“Well, the young lady that found the body disappeared later that night.” It had been a miracle that no one other than him had heard her scream. Mostly because he had been the only guest in that wing, having insisted on complete privacy.

“Do we know who she was?”

“She was Natalia Karanova, here under the pretense of being the personal assistant to another guest, Krista Rodriguez. But upon further investigation, it turns out she is also the granddaughter of an actress murdered on the set of the 1980 movie The Deepest Cut.”

Olivia tilted her head to one side in contemplation. “Was she even alive in 1980?”

Bertrand shook his head. “No. But her mother was and by all accounts, she was never right again after losing her mother at such a young age. She struggled with lifelong depression and eventually took her own life. She named our esteemed guest in her suicide note.”

Olivia sucked in a breath. “That would be motive.”

“Indeed.”

“So did you tell the police?”

“No.”

“No?”

He shook his head again.

“Why not?”

“Because I read the news article about what happened to that young, aspiring actress. She didn’t deserve what happened to her, but perhaps her murderer did. The evidence was clear, but fame and money made it all just go away.”

“Wow, Bert. I didn’t know you had it in you!” She gave him an approving smile. “Good for you!”

“So, you won’t tell anyone?”

“My lips are sealed.”

******

Three weeks later, Leo discovered in therapy that he had been self-sabotaging his whole life because of deep-seated insecurities stemming from a childhood of neglect, abandonment, and mental abuse at the hands of his father.  

He cooperated with the rest of the program, repaired his public image, and, more importantly, his relationship with his wife.

He returned home to California with her and their two children and they all lived happily ever after.

The End.

[ownworldresident]

Side by Side: Interlude

This piece is for @choicesflashfics Week #70 prompts! This section takes place shortly after Liam and Rayne's conversation in Chapter 7, which is a few days after his wedding to Madeleine... you guys know the drama drill haha.

Book: The Royal Romance Pairing: Liam Rys and Rayne (romantic) Themes: hurt/comfort, friendship, family, Maxwell being an excellent friend Words: 1827 (apologies, but I promise it's an easy read) Prompts used: Prompt 1 — “I wish you could see yourself the way I see you.” Prompt 3 — “How are you going to explain this/that?” Side by Side Masterlist (updated) here

I've included my Side by Side taglist for the interested folks, but you don't need to be up to date on that to follow the scenes. Side note I had wayyyy too much fun on Canva making this image.

Rayne didn't return to the palace with Liam. He stayed the night after their discussion, they reunited in more ways than one, and the next morning they began to discuss logistics.

“What are they expecting when you arrive home?” Rayne asked, elbows on the dining table either side of an empty breakfast plate.

“Except for Bastien, the palace and the press don't know that I'm here. They still believe I'm at the estate with Madeleine. They'll expect us to arrive together.”

“You can stay here until then, if you want.” said Maxwell, who had tactfully said nothing last night of why Liam was here but was keen to assist now. “Bertrand would be honoured.”

Rayne sipped her orange juice - no coffee for a while - and allowed Liam to respond to a question of which she knew the answer.

“Thank you, Maxwell, but they expect us this afternoon. I will reconvene with Madeleine and travel with her back to the palace.”

“So how are you going to explain this?” Maxwell cut to the elephant in the room. Rayne looked to Liam again. They had discussed how to play this but ultimately it was up to him.

“To be honest, I'm not sure yet. But I will discuss it with Madeleine, since she is open to compromise, and make a statement when the time is right.”

Maxwell nodded, and turned his attention to Rayne. “And you, blossom? are you returning as well?” He sounded a little forlorn at the prospect.

“I could,” Rayne said, glancing at Liam, “but as I discussed with Liam last night it might be better to lay low for a while.”

“It would give me the chance to lay the groundwork for your return.” Liam reached for one of her hands, taking it in both of his. The way he gently squeezed was enough to communicate how much he wanted her to be there with him. Rayne held his gaze, then looked to Maxwell.

“I was hoping I could stay here until then.”

Maxwell looked surprised, then smiled warmly. “Absolutely you can! We will have so much fun… we can go riding and to the sauna and for runs together and…” he paused at Rayne’s bemused smile, and continued a little sheepishly. “I mean we can relax and watch movies and go for reasonable length walks…”

“I would love all those things, Max.” Rayne grinned. “But maybe we can start with the movies and walks.”

“I'll contact your doctor,” Liam noted, “see if she could be persuaded to make a house call. Everything discreet, of course.” Rayne had seen this doctor a few times whilst in Cordonia at Liam's recommendation and approved of her.

“So this is all a secret for now then?” Maxwell queried.

“Yes,” Liam answered, squeezing Rayne's hand again and releasing her. “For now at least, this news doesn't leave this household.”

— —

The sky was overcast as Rayne and Maxwell left the Beaumont estate several weeks after the decision to stay. Nerves built inside her as they climbed into the back of the SUV sent to collect them and approached the open gates of the estate. The car was silent for a few minutes, and Rayne focused on the outlines of the trees and vines bordering the gravel road.

“I left a charger cable in my room.” Maxwell sighed. She turned to him.

“At home?”

“No, at the palace. I'm looking forward to getting it back.”

Rayne smiled, breaking some of the tension in her face. “Don't you have other chargers?”

He shrugged. “Technically yes, but this one's my favourite.” The words were followed by a wide grin that made her laugh.

“Glad you can finally get it back then,” she remarked fondly, and turned back to the window. It was starting to rain now, gently, but it was predicted to get heavier as they approached the city.

“I hope I have the same room…” Maxwell commented. As he had previously assured her they would have the same rooms, Rayne didn't respond, but thinking of the rooms inevitably led back to thoughts of Liam.

Her hand subconsciously moved to her belly, which now was aligned with her breasts. The last time the doctor had visited had been the most surprising, but made the most sense. At ten weeks, her baby should not be showing so much - but twins did.

Twins were not uncommon in Rayne's family, she'd had a twin sibling, but it didn't make the prospect any less terrifying. Having one life growing inside her for the first time was enough, but she was still reckoning with the idea of two.

A loose shirt and open coat would do little to hide the reality from prying eyes, so she was not looking forward to her hospital visit…

“Liam will be there.” Maxwell's voice cut through Rayne's reflections. She turned to him. “He will make sure everything goes smoothly. You'll be okay, blossom. No need to be stressed.” His eyes flitted to where her hand trembled against her belly as if in recognition of her nerves. She let her hand fall, and he reached for it.

“I know,” Rayne muttered. And she did, but it didn't take away all her anxiety.

Maxwell squeezed her hand to bring her focus back to him. “There is no benefit in worrying about would could happen or what people might think. You have a lot of good people to support you, my wonderful self included, and we will all make sure that you are safe and comfortable.”

Rayne felt tears prick her eyes, smiling at the unusual earnestness from her jovial friend. After a moment holding his gaze, she nodded.

“I know,” she said again, “thank you, Maxwell.”

“Any time.” He smiled, releasing her hand, and they fell into an easier quiet. Rain pattered on the roof and windows of the car, they exited the gravel drive onto a sealed road, and she reflected on the words he had used. Maxwell was more intelligent than he was given credit for, but he spoke in simpler sentiments.

“Liam told you to say that, didn't he?”

He frowned, the shrugged. “He suggested I be more openly supportive - me being so much a master of subtlety and all - but I didn't need to know how to comfort one of my best friends, particularly given I've technically spent more time with you over the years than his royalness.”

“True, very true,” Rayne conceded, hiding a smirk and turning back to the road. “Especially during the hard times. And more recently whilst I've been… well…”

“Finally appreciating the excellence of my company?” Maxwell finished for her.

“Sure.” Rayne turned back to his wide smile. “And hugs. I appreciate your hugs.”

Several instances passed through her mind of Maxwell holding her. As she wept; as she sat nauseous beside the toilet; as she fell into him barely able to breathe; as she expressed just how much her heart ached, how much she wished Liam were with her, and things had turned out differently…

Eventually Rayne fell into a restless doze. She imagined reuniting with Liam and it brought her comfort. He had visited, once, a few weeks before. She had tried to be composed through the hormonal shifts but he had found her mostly short tempered. She hadn't properly said goodbye. There were some things she regretted saying, and she imagined having to resolve some tension before even entering the palace. Her new home.

— —

“Rayne.” A voice broke through her reverie, and a nudge of her shoulder. “Rayne, are you awake?”

“Nng,” she responded, less coherent than intended. She tried again. “Yes.”

“Good.” It was Maxwell's voice. “We're almost there.”

Rayne registered the thick rain and slow movement of the car over more gravel and lifted her head to see out, wiping drool from her chin and sleep from her eyes. Her back and neck ached from the awkward angle and she resolved once again never to sleep in a car.

“You can finally get your phone charger cable,” she remarked, watching the palace as they approached. Maxwell laughed.

“My whole reason for accompanying you is complete!” The lightness in his voice made her smile, despite the growing nerves.

“I hope you can stay for a while though,” she said, “I'll miss your company.”

Maxwell reached for her hand again. “Don't worry blossom, I'll make sure you're all set up before leaving. And you know how to reach me after that.” He looked up past Rayne, then, and grinned. “Welcome home.”

Rayne turned to see the palace slide out of view past some tall hedges. Her palms were sweaty and her chest tight, then the hedges opened out to reveal a familiar figure waiting under cover by the entrance, and her heart leapt.

— —

Liam waited by the door with Drake and two of the palace staff, rocking back and forth on the balls of his feet with an umbrella in hand as they watched the SUV approach. It moved so slowly, but the time was finally nearing when he would see her again, and see her every day from now on.

“Bit excited there, Li?” Drake teased from just behind him. It only made Liam smile wider. His heart thumped in his chest and he stood so close to the edge of the portico that some of the rain began to reach him.

“Absolutely,” Liam responded, unphased. The car was so close he thought he could make out Rayne’s face through the tinted glass. It pulled up alongside the palace, and he leapt into action with his now open umbrella. She always sat on the right side, so he opened that door just as she reached for the handle, and there she was.

“Liam,” she breathed, wide eyed as he met her gaze. How was she even more beautiful than he remembered?

“Welcome home, love,” he managed after a few moments, holding the umbrella above them both with his other hand out to help her up. As she stood, he breathed in her scent, and all the tension in his body and mind relaxed. “I missed you.”

Rayne looked up at him as he closed the car door behind her. She opened her mouth to speak, closed it again, and wrapped her arms around him for the first time in too long. He held her in the rain on the gravel driveway, holding the umbrella above them in one hand, heedless of the staff and friends moving around them.

“I missed you too,” Rayne mumbled into his chest, and held him tighter. Liam kept his touch gentle, not wanting to strain her, and after a while he pulled back and moved a loose curl away from her face. She sniffed, wiping her face with a coat sleeve, and started to apologise for her appearance. Liam shook his head to halt her.

“I wish you could see yourself the way I see you,” he said, smiling softly, “there is nothing and no one else so perfect in this world.”

-----

Side by Side Tag List: @tessa-liam @twinkleallnight @umccall71 @kingliam2019 @angelasscribbles @mainstreetreader @malblk21 @queen-arabella-of-cordonia @tinkie1973 @lovingchoices14

[cordonianroyalairlines]

Cordonian Royal Airlines

…where we treat every passenger like royalty. The ultimate in air travel. Luxurious private jets for booking to exclusive locales. Small, private, elite.

Welcome to Cordonian Royal Airlines (CRA), a TRR AU in the spirit of Wings and LA to Vegas.  

Leo and Liam Rys, two brothers, both pilots, decide to go into business together, operating a small, private, elite airline that flies exclusive clientele to exotic locales in the lap of luxury. A non-chronological series of loosely related one-shots and drabbles around the exploits of the crew of CRA.

Pilots/Owners: Leo Rys, Liam Rys

First Officers: Drake Walker, Bertrand Beaumont

Flight Attendants: Riley Brooks, Maxwell Beaumont, Hana Lee, Kiara Theron

Office Manager: Madeleine Amaranth

World Renown In-Flight Chef: Olivia Nevrakis

Receptionist/Booking: Penelope Ebrim

Security: Bastien Lykel

Masterlist

Turbulence: Riley confronts Drake with unexpected results.

All I Want for Christmas Part 1: The crew is grounded by a blizzard.

All I Want for Christmas Part 2: Drake does something unexpected.

Ball Drop: Drake and Riley end up in the same place on NYE.

Staking a Claim: Riley's ex shows up on a flight. Drake is less than pleased about it.

[txemrn]

Book: TRR/TRH (events actually occur in TRH Book 1)

Pairing: Liam x MC (Riley); Bertrand x Savannah

Word Count: ~2500

Warning: innuendos; a little language; fluffiness

A/N: I usually enjoy writing fairly angsty TRR material, but when I started gearing up for this past week's @kingliamappreciationweek, I decided I really wanted to write something new that wasn't so dramatic. So, I started thinking about how Liam is a history buff... and if y'all don't know this by now, I'm from Texas, and the thought of that tall glass of water knowing about my home state's history...whew... Give me a moment... This is pure silliness. It's a re-write of Bertrand's bachelor party/Savannah's bachelorette party, and it's just... silly. It does not follow canon very well. But, I hope you still enjoy it! Happy KLAW 2023, friends!

A/N 2: This is my submission for @choicesflashfics week 30! I will be using prompt 3: "That's how the story goes." It will be in bold.

A/N 3: These characters and some of the plot belong to our dear friends Pixelberry. This was not truly pre-read or beta'd. Please excuse my errors.

~👑~

"Alright, lil' ladies with the beautiful bride-to-be!" A burly bartender with a thick drawl and matching beard comes out from behind the counter, making his way to Savannah Walker's bachelorette party.  Delivering a tray of golden caramel-colored shots, he piles each one high with decadent whipped cream. "Here ya go: six blow job shots."

Hana spews out her cocktail, covering her mouth with rosy cheeks.

"Mon dieu! Did–did he just say–"

"Like you don't know what that is, Kiara," Olivia snorts. "Drink up, poufiasse."

Savannah, Madeleine, and Riley cover their giggles, leaning into one another as they take their drinks.

"Wait," Hana holds up her hands as they prepare to toast their third round of shots. "Where's Penelope?"

"Oh, I'm here! I'm here!" She runs up, out of breath, her short hair and denim dress completely drenched.

"What on earth happened to you?" Riley starts grabbing napkins.

"I was checking in with my dog sitter, but the reception here is awful. Plus, it's raining like cats and dogs out—oooooo!" Penelope's eyes beam at the sight of the shots. "What are these?" She leans down to sniff before humming in approval.

"Blow jobs," Olivia smirks.

"Oh!" Penelope nods with curious fascination. "Leo said that about my lips one time–"

"He said what?" Madeleine raises an eyebrow.

"I know, I didn't understand what he meant either."

"No, that's not–nevermind."

"Hold up." Riley raises her hands to silence everyone before turning to Penelope. "Raining like cats and dogs?" She grimaces, glancing at Savannah. "I hope the guys are alright–"

"Gunther!" 

The sudden boisterous voice of Drake Walker echoes through the dive bar, the doors swinging loudly, clapping up against the wooden walls. The large bartender turns, then brightens when he sees his old-time customer and friend coming into his establishment. 

"Whiskers, is that you?"

The girls quietly glare at one another, mouthing the word 'whiskers.'  

The two men grab each other's hands in a shake before pulling into a brotherly hug. Liam, Bertrand and Maxwell file in through the door, shaking droplets from their wet clothes.

"You guys!" Riley jumps up to greet her husband. 

Savannah follows behind, wrapping her arms around Bertrand before brushing a kiss against his lips. "What are y'all doing here?"

"Isn't it obvious?" Maxwell chuckles, throwing his thumb behind his shoulder.

"The campgrounds were rained out," Liam explains, combing his wife's hair behind her ear. "We thought we could stick it out as long as the creek didn't rise too high. But then," he shakes his head, chuckling, "the tents flooded. The truck almost got stuck in the mud."

"Our clothes and shoes are airing out back at the house," Bertrand states, watching his bride fix his wet hair.

"Wow," Olivia snickers, "so much for roughing it for your bachelor party, huh, Beaumont?"

"I beg your pardon," Bertrand stiffens in annoyance, "we almost died out there, duchess."

"It's water."

"Centimeters upon centimeters–"

"Imagine meters of it. Frozen–"

"Well," Riley interjects the budding feud, "I, for one, am happy you guys are out of the nasty weather." She holds her hand up to the bartender, "first round on the crown!" 

"I like the sound of that," Maxwell chuckles.

"'First round on the crown'?" Liam whispers in his wife's ear, humored.

Riley scrunches up her nose, a mischievous grin crawling across her lips. "What can I say?" She giggles, slinking an arm around her husband’s waist. "I've been a queen for over a month, and I haven’t declared anything yet." She turns to her friends. "Let them drink booze!" She glances back at Liam, who's shaking his head at his tipsy wife. "What? I was channeling my inner Marie Antoinette."

"I… caught the reference," he narrows his eyes, gently placing a grip around Riley's neck. "I hope she’s not the inspiration of your own reign," he squeezes his fingers playfully, lowering his voice into a growl. "I'd hate for you to end up like her."

"You're not convincing me otherwise with your hand around my throat, my king." They knowingly snicker to one another, sharing a kiss.

"Okay, you newlyweds," Olivia snickers, rolling her eyes before turning to Drake. "So, um, Whiskers?"

He crosses his arms. "Yes…Red?" He collects a tray of glasses and a fifth of whiskey from Gunther to bring to the table.

"Curious minds want to know about this nickname."

"Awww, you’re thinking about me, Red?" She scoffs as he purposely bumps into her shoulder. "Maybe you'd rather a demonstration of why they call me Whiskers–"

"Drake Elmer!" Savannah scolds. "You're disgusting." She glances to the ladies. "Only Gunther calls him that, and the only reason he calls him that is because of Dad."

"Dad had a rule," Drake air quotes, "that I couldn't taste whiskey until I had whiskers." He nods towards the bartender, "Gunther there served me my first whiskey right after Dad's funeral–"

"Drakey!"  The syrupy voice of Savannah's ex-boyfriend bellows from across the room. "And he brought his royal round up!" The broad-shouldered red-head gives a curt bow, removing his Stetson as he notices Liam, switching to a British accent. "Your majesty."

Liam nods cordially before casually turning towards Riley. "What is it with you Americans thinking everyone in Europe talks with that accent?" Riley giggles under her breath, pinching her husband teasingly.

"Bert!" Chuck opens up his arms, pulling the duke into a tight, bear hug. "How's our groom? Come down here to flex your trivia knowledge?"

"Trivia?" Maxwell questions.

A sudden jolt of excitement hits Drake, his eyes widening as he looks to Gunther. "Is that tonight?"

"You bet yer' asses, Whiskers. $250 cash prize and a bottle of Jack to share."

"Whatd'ya say, Drakey? For old time's sake?" Chuck holds out his hand. Without giving it much thought, Drake clasps Chuck's calloused hand, pulling him into a quick hug. The men begin to hoot and grunt, clapping as they turn to join the rest of Chuck's friends in the corner.

But then Chuck stops, spinning on his heel. He glares at Bertrand before fixing a charming smirk to his mouth. "Where are my manners? Bert, the team is full, or else I'd invite you to join–"

"That's–" Bertrand clears his throat, "--quite alright, I assure you–"

"I mean," Chuck motions to Liam and Maxwell, "unless y'all wanted to make your own team." He glances over his shoulder, “Gunther, what’s tonight’s theme?

"Texas history, fellas," Gunther announces. "Trivia about the greatest fucking country in the world. Texas."

"Ahh. See?" Chuck swings out his arms, shrugging. "That’s how the story goes. Y'all better sit this one out."  With the deep clack of his cowboy boots, he adjusts his belt buckle before slowly strutting back to his seat. 

Seeing the defeat in his face, Savannah runs a hand across Bertrand's chest before giving him a sweet kiss on the cheek. "Don't worry about it, hun," she softly croons, "that's not even your idea of fun anyway."

Bertrand grows rigid. "What do you mean? I like to have fun–"

"Of course, B, just… in other… ways–"

"I," he pulls away from his fiancée, pressing his finger into his chest, "am… the epitome of fun–"

"You're right, but–"

"I'm a crate full of apes!"

Riley looks over her shoulder to Liam, whispering, "Does he know that it's a barrel full of–?"

"Shhh," Liam softly hushes, "just let him go."

"You there!" Bertrand shouts to Gunther, causing everyone to freeze. "We would like to play."

"Uh, Bertrand? A word." Maxwell motions for his brother to join him as he stumbles over to Liam. "Are you crazy?" He whisper shouts. "These people already enjoy making fun of us. Why do you want to do this?" 

"It's the principle of it all," Bertrand grows serious.

Maxwell sighs. "What do you think, Li?"

Liam looks up at Bertrand whose gaze is now attentive to Savannah. She laughs at something Kiara says, causing Bertrand's demeanor to slump a little more, as if each second with her reminds him he's not worthy of her.

Liam gets that.

"I think we should do it."

"See, Bertrand? Even Li–wait, what?" Maxwell's jaw drops. "You think this is a good idea?"

"It's just a game, right?" Liam winks handsomely. "Besides, I think Bertrand needs this."

"But Li… Texas trivia? Those guys reek of BBQ, football and leather."

“And we have survived how many secret coups attacks? Liam shrugs before patting the younger Beaumont on the back. "This could be fun."

—

Liam, Bertrand and Maxwell settle at a bar top table near four other teams, including Chuck and Drake's group.  As Gunther passes out electronic buzzers, he explains the rules. Chuck rubs his hands together in cocky delight as Bertrand wipes his brow with small drink napkins.

"Alright! Is everybody ready?" Gunther announces over a karaoke machine microphone. "Let's begin. When is Texas Independence Day?"

Chuck buzzes in with a proud, sarcastic snicker. "March 2nd."

"Correct!"

"Ahh, snaps, you guys," Maxwell hangs his head in his hands. "This was a bad idea."

"It's only been one question," Liam encourages.

"And we're already losing!" Maxwell whines, covering his eyes. 

"Next question. Before her independence, Texas was governed by how many different nations?"

Liam hits the buzzer, turning to an unsuspecting Bertrand. "Psst… how many forks are in the traditional Cordonian place setting?"

Bertrand scoffs. "Six!" He barks out loud before realizing everyone is silent, staring at him.

"Correct!"

"Huh?" Maxwell looks up, a smile tugging at his lips.

"Way to go, Bertrand!" Riley and Savannah cheer as the other ladies clap and whistle.

"Alright," Gunther starts, "next question…"

The trivia night continues, back and forth, question for question. The other teams at the bar had opportunities to answer, but overall, Chuck and Drake's team remained in the lead.

But not by much.

The men from Cordonia gave them quite a run for their money, thanks to Liam and his wealth of knowledge. But although Liam knows the majority of the answers, he is yet to speak for the team; rather, he turns to Bertrand each time after hitting the buzzer, prompting him with a different question that possesses the same answer.

"Okay, folks," the bartender announces, "this is the last question. If this team," Gunther points to Bertrand, Liam and Maxwell, "chimes in and gets it right, it will tie the game, sending us into sudden death." The bar fills with cheers, patrons shouting with excitement and pounding their fists on the tables. "Here we go. The Texas Revolution started in what year?"

There's a slight hesitation, but finally Liam turns to Bertrand and states, "The ending of the Bavarian Regency of Greece." Bertrand furrows his eyebrows, but Liam gives him a reassuring nod as he hits the buzzer.

He clears his throat. "1835?"

Everyone freezes, a hush falling over the bar in anxious anticipation.

"Folks? We've got ourselves a tied game!"

Bertrand exhales heavily, closing his eyes. Liam pats him on the back while Maxwell cheers, tugging on his brother's shoulder.  The entire bar is in a fuss as Chuck and Drake stare confusingly at each other. Gunther gets back on the mic, and explains the sudden death round, which requires for each team to choose one member to represent them.

"You've got this, Li," Maxwell applauds, Bertrand smiling and nodding.

"I think… Bertrand should take this."

"Pardon my insolence, sir, but I do not find that to be a wise decision," Bertrand argues.

"I agree with my brother, Li," Maxwell nods, "you knew all those answers–"

"But Bertrand scored us those points," Liam counters, "he needs to put up a fight until the game is over. It's the principle, remember?"  

Hearing Liam repeat his words, Bertrand grins, courage blooming in his chest. He looks to Savannah who is clapping, mouthing the words 'I'm so proud of you.' 

"I'll do it."

Bertrand and Chuck step forward for the sudden death round, peering into each other's eyes. "Are we ready, gentlemen?" Gunther asks. Both men shake their heads yes, their gazes not leaving each other. "Let the best man win."

For a split second, Bertrand glances at his fiancée, and realizes he might not be the best man, but to her, he is. And no matter what, he's already won.

"Here's the question: made popular by an Alamo hero, this portable weapon that can kill and butcher game. Name the weapon–"

Chuck buzzes in. "The Swiss army knife." He smiles brightly, pulling out his own pocket blade and twirling it in victory.

Bertrand turns back to Liam and Maxwell, shaking his head. Maxwell mouths, 'that's okay! You did your best!' Bertand shakes his head more adamantly, but now he’s starting to grin.

"Actually," the bartender starts, "that’s incorrect, Chuck." Gunther turns towards Bertrand. "Do you have an answer, my foreign friend?"

Bertrand smirks. "You are referring to the Bowie knife."

A stillness hushes the crowd; Savannah and Riley anxiously wait, hands clasped with bated breath.

"That… is correct!"

The entire room erupts with shouts of praise and earth-shaking applause.  Several men remove their ten-gallon hats to whoop in honor of the winner, the women of the bachelorette party squealing in glee.

Drake shakes Bertrand's hand before pulling him into an endearing hug. Liam and Maxwell both clap the duke on the back in congratulations. Savannah quickly cuts in, throwing her arms around her fiancé as her lips crash into his. Gunther comes over with the prize, and shakes Liam's hand. Maxwell snatches the bottle of Jack and the cash, and holds it over his head like a trophy.  More shots and drinks are ordered, the night carrying on into a wild honky-tonk of a dance party.

Riley finds Liam, roping her arms around his neck as he secures his large hands to her waist.

"I'm so proud of you, partner," Riley attempts a drawl. Liam laughs, kissing her forehead as they begin to sway to the slow country beat. "Bertrand said that you actually never gave him any answers; you just… asked him questions that had the same answer"

Liam nods slowly, "Yep."

"Why?"

"Oh, my queen," he beams looking down at her, "it's the principle."

"The principle?" She cocks an eyebrow.

"A man wants to win a woman's heart."

"But Savannah loves him–"

"That's not the point," Liam counters. "A man wants to win her over… and over and over again. If I gave him the answers, that would've cheated him out of proving to her and to himself that he's worthy of her."

"Do you ever feel that way about me?" She croons.

A rosy hue swirls across Liam's cheeks. "More than you realize."

Riley presses a tender kiss to her husband’s chin before continuing their dance. "But… I gotta ask. When did you become so smart about Texas history?"

Liam chuckles. "I've been best friends with Drake Walker since I was 8 years old. We used to do our studies together, and… he was terrible at history."

"So?"

"So?" Liam stifles his toothy grin, licking his bottom lip. "Who do you think did his Texas history homework?"

"William Rys!"

~👑~

Thank you so much for your support! Every like, comment and reblog means the world to me! 🖤

~👑~

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[alj4890]

Just Try

(Liam x Madeleine) in a Choices The Royal Romance drabble

Thirty Kisses in Thirty Days Challenge with the prompt: an "I'm in love with someone else, but you're here," kiss.

May 2023 Choices Challenge: lies | first heartbreak

A/N Here's my take on what Liam was going through at the beginning of Book 2 while Riley was at Ramsford. When I saw this particular kiss prompt, I immediately thought of him being forced to live a lie where he is happy with Madeleine. This is nothing but pure angst. Sorry 😬

Rating: G

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Masterlist

Another day as the new King of Cordonia was over at last. Liam trudged his way upstairs to his bed chambers. Each step felt heavier than the one that came before it. His mind buzzed from the numerous meetings he'd gone through since being crowned. Nothing so far came close to how he thought his life would be once he became ruler.

As he closed his door, he allowed his shoulders to droop. In here, he was able to be simply Liam, a young man grieving for his deathly ill father and for the loss of the woman he so desperately loved.

Riley.

He closed his eyes for a moment. His head tipped back to rest upon his door while images of her danced in his thoughts. Everything had seemed so perfect to have only come to an abrupt end.

He was so tired of the pictures of Riley and Tariq being brought up in the news. It hurt to see her nearly naked with another man, even though he knew they weren't true.

Thank God for Drake, he thought to himself.

Liam pushed away from the door to prepare himself a needed drink. In honor of his best friend saving her, he poured a liberal amount of Macallan 1928. He then did his best to relax.

This life he was forced to lead wasn't easy. He knew before he'd even been made to take his older brother's place that it wouldn't be. Liam honestly did not anticipate it being this hard.

He'd always suspected he would have to marry someone out of duty because of the crown. As the spare, he thought it would be to help secure ties with another kingdom. Nothing brought about an alliance faster than marriage. Then when Leo abdicated, Liam knew his choices had diminished even more.

Especially when his father insisted on the very public suitor events.

And of course, Maxwell and Drake's insistence that he have a bachelor party.

Those two instances of being pressured had led to Liam feeling this depressed. Though he was grateful to his friends wanting to give him a night he'd never forget, he almost wished it had never happened. If he'd been allowed to remain here, stuck in a lifestyle he understood, he might not feel like he was now living a lie.

Instead, he'd lost his heart to an American. He'd begun to dream of an impossible life by her side. He almost attained it.

Then it was snatched away at the very last second.

He couldn't even call Riley and discuss any of this with her. Fear of someone finding out kept him from doing so. He couldn't ask anyone if she had decided to remain in the country. Who could he trust with that? He at first thought of calling Ramsford in an act of kingly benevolence to reassure Bertrand that he didn't hold any ill will for bringing, as the media dubbed her, that beastly American to him so he could discover whether or not Riley returned to New York. But who knew who would be listening in?

Even if she had remained in Cordonia, would she still want him? After all, mere minutes after declaring his love for her he'd gone and announced he was marrying another.

He took a long sip of his whiskey, allowing it to burn in his throat as memories of making love to Riley that night came to mind. Why didn't he rush inside after she told him she loved him too to declare her his choice? He instead had given in to the moment and selfishly kept her to himself for a little longer.

And look what that cost me, he thought bitterly.

"Come in." He called out at the brisk knock to his door.

Madeleine poked her head inside. "I hope I'm not disturbing you."

The words sat on the tip his tongue to say that she was. She was intruding on his nightly torture of what his life had almost been. He was ready to wallow in his misery without the added reminder of being trapped with her as future queen.

"Not at all." He took another sip. "Please, sit down."

Madeleine beamed over his manners still being intact even though he was drinking. She knew many noblemen who couldn't contain their baser instincts once alcohol was involved. She was a little relieved to see him imbibing. Hopefully it would help with her plan.

She wasn't a fool. She knew she wasn't his real choice. Madeleine believed though that they could find a way to be a couple, even if it was an act on both their parts.

But she also knew that in order to be a successful queen, she would need to one day bear him a child.

"How was your day?" She asked politely.

"Busy." He forced a smile. "But productive nonetheless."

"Good." She sat up a bit straighter. "I've begun to plan our engagement tour."

Liam took another sip, nearly finishing off his glass with that reminder.

"Have you?" He got up to top off his glass. "May I get you anything?"

"I'll have whatever you're having." She decided.

Maybe a drink would help her too with discussing what was on her mind.

He handed her a tumbler halfway filled.

"Thank you." She took a dainty sip, nose wrinkling over the taste.

She'd never enjoyed drinking straight spirits, but desperate times called for such.

"I think we need to discuss how we should act at these events." She began.

Liam softly sighed. "And how do you think we should?"

Madeleine narrowed her eyes at his tone. Was that irritation or resignation? Either way, it didn't give her much hope.

"I know ours wasn't the typical courtship," she added.

"Indeed, it was not." He snorted.

"But, it needs to look like it in front of everyone."

Liam downed his glass. "I believe in the public's eyes, I am a dutiful fiancé."

"Dutiful, yet not happy." She stressed.

"I've smiled for every picture." He argued.

"Not the way you smiled with Riley."

He couldn't believe she had the unmitigated gall to say his love's name.

"Do not dare," his tone turned a touch sinister, "presume to compare yourself to her."

Madeleine blinked. Had she misjudged Liam's easy going demeanor?

"I'm not." She replied, her own tone turning peevish. "I'm simply pointing out a fact. People knew you favored her above all the rest of us. Since you didn't pick--"

"Couldn't." He corrected.

"Couldn't pick her," Madeleine continued, "then you must at least pretend to be content."

"And what do you think I've been doing?" He pushed out of his chair to pace. "I've made certain to praise you in interviews. I've stood by your side, smiling like an idiot. I've--"

"Not kissed me."

Liam stopped dead in his tracks. His eyes widened at the mere thought of kissing the proper, icy countess. His already tender stomach from drinking without dinner churned at the thought of kissing a woman his brother had been with.

It was wrong. He couldn't think of another way to put it.

Madeleine got to her feet and stood before him. Taking a deep breath, she titled her head back.

"Madeleine, we can't--"

"I know you hope things turn out differently." Her eyes held his. "But the likely hood of Riley's name being cleared is far fetched at best. We need to be prepared for our future."

Liam briefly closed his eyes. His heart ached to hear that his dreams were getting further and further away from becoming a reality. All he had was hope in finding out what happened at Applewood. He didn't even know how he would secretly conduct an investigation. He couldn't, not without discovering first off why the security had failed so miserably that fateful night.

The thought of the rest of his life spent with the woman before him was too much right now. The pain he felt in having to choose her was still so raw. He couldn't think about the notion of truly marrying her.

Was the crown even worth it? Was his duty going to be the very thing to keep him tethered to an unhappy life?

Perhaps Leo is right. Maybe abdication is the only way.

"I think we need to kiss." Madeleine broke through his tortured thoughts. "At least for practice for when we need to pose for pictures and such. We need it to look natural."

Liam shook his head. "We do not have to kiss in public."

"Very well." She knew she had an uphill battle on her hands. "But we will one day have to have children."

Children. Liam ran his hands over his face. He was supposed to have children with Riley. He even told her that was his dream on his first date, to one day have a family of his own. He'd already imagined them looking like his love. He hoped they would have her dark hair, her warm smile, her easy laugh, and her tender heart.

Now the likely hood was that they wouldn't exist. He would be forced to have children with Madeleine.

He needed another drink.

Madeleine watched in silence as he hastily gulped his third glass. She wasn't insulted. After all, she knew the type of loyalty Liam had. His devotion to a woman who had shamed him was admirable, if not foolish in her mind. It boded well though for their own future that she could trust him.

She decided she could be magnanimous in their current situation.

"If Riley did remain with the Beaumont's," she added, "I will gladly turn a blind eye to you making her your mistress."

Liam nearly choked on his whiskey.

She rolled her eyes over that reaction.

"I understand how much you care for her."

"I love her." He stated.

"Be that as it may," her voice was tight with conviction, "we are the ones getting married."

Liam set his empty glass down. Why was she hounding him about this?

"Now, we need to kiss at least once so it won't be as awkward as it will be if done for the first time in front of others."

Her frown firmed on her lips. "My mother is the type to demand such demonstrations of love."

When Liam still remained away from her, she reminded him that her irreverent parent would be the first to throw a party for their engagement.

Seeing no way out of this nor getting a chance for peace, Liam returned to her and took her in his arms. Before he could think too much about it, he captured her lips in a kiss.

It felt wrong. Madeleine's body was stiff as she forced her lips to ease under his. He didn't even try to deepen it. What was the point? She wasn't even remotely interested in him physically. He couldn't even use her to help him in his loneliness.

That thought made him jerk away from Madeleine. He couldn't believe he ever considered taking advantage of another in such a despicable manner.

His eyes darted over to his empty glass. Was it the cause of such a notion?

He decided he would never drink that much again before dealing with his fiancée. It wasn't fair to her, to himself, and it certainly wasn't right to do to Riley.

Even if he was to never see her again, she was still worth being true to.

"There are other ways we can have children if forced to marry." He told her. "You need not worry about having to demonstrate your affection to me physically ever again."

Madeleine's relief didn't escape his notice.

"Very well. Thank you for discussing it with me." She walked out with her head held high.

Once the door shut, Liam buried his head on his hands. He was embarrassed and disheartened with how this night was ending. He knew he should have never let Madeleine inside, much less entertained their conversation. Look what it had done to him. It had brought Liam nothing but more pain and sadness.

He honestly wasn't sure how he could continue this life of his without Riley.

[lizzybeth1986]

WIP: The OCs of "Out of the Chrysalis"

So the fic I'm currently doing for HLAW...is a "Hana tries speed dating courtesy of Maxwell" fic in my P&Tverse haha, because I didn't want to have her plunging into her One Big Romance before getting the space to figure out who she is, sexuality wise, and finding a community of sorts.

One hc I always had was that Maxwell figured out Hana was interested in women by the time they became friends, and basically wanted her to have the experience of dating. He's a guy who winds up remaining friends with his exes, so he definitely talks to them and the people Hana secretly dates (because she's part of Madeleine's court and expected to catch a suitor the regular way) during the Applewood-Italy-Paris leg of the tour are either people he has dated before, or friends of people he has dated and is still friends with. Or just friends. Basically, people he trusts.

Along with being bi I hc her as demisexual, so this fic is about her discovering that too. So five of these people she dates, and two of them she basically has very illuminating conversations with.

So here goes! OC character sheets under the cut

Bethany James

Faceclaim: Vidya Vox

From: Cormery Isle originally, but now lives in Applewood

Pronouns & Sexuality: she/her, lesbian

Profession: Runs a bakery

Headcanons:

• is a friend of someone Maxwell dated during a stay at Applewood.

• a tiny bit of her story is mentioned in "It Takes A Village", about Kiara's coming-out. She is the girl Kiara speaks to at an art exhibition at the end of that fic.

• Bethany left Cormery Isle with a friend, sensing what she was experiencing was different to what other peers seemed to be experience (she'd find out eventually that some of them were bi and equally scared as her). She was only 16 then. She came to Castelserraillan which was always hailed as a VERY safe space for the Cordonian LGBTQ community in general, and had a really, really memorable experience during their Pride Month.

• She moved to Applewood at the age of 20. Loves the farming community and tries to support local farmers there with a pie festival in the autumn months.

• Like most people everywhere, cannot stand Lord Neville Vancouer.

Angel Diaz

Faceclaim: Kehlani Parris

From: Applewood

Pronouns and Sexuality: they/them, pansexual

Profession: Tattoo artist

Headcanons:

• In my hcs Maxwell has a better hippo tattoo now coz I decided to make this character his tattoo artist, and there is NO WAY I'm going to have them be the face behind that awful clipart excuse of a canon tattoo.

This is P&T!Maxwell's tattoo btw:

Has the right amount of goofy, just not lazily done. But whatever, Maxwell got the clipart one as a teen but upgraded it to this one with Angel's encouragement and skills. He's still a bit embarrassed to show it because what will Bertrand say!

• Angel was always a gifted artist, and their parents enrolled them on scholarship at Castelserraillan's premium University for Fine Arts. But it was there that they got fascinated with tattoo art. It gave their parents quite the shock when they made that their profession and it took them a few years to come around to the idea.

• Like Bethany, Angel was also part of the queer scene early on - but because they were actually staying there they could get involved in the community.

• Maxwell and Angel did briefly date.

• Angel loves to dance. You need an eager person to do crazy spins for a flashmob? They're there.

Andrea Melis

Faceclaim: Alessandro Mahmood

From: Sardinia. Born to a Sardinian father and an Egyptian mother. Currently stays in Capri.

Pronouns and Sexuality: he/him, bisexual

Profession: Translator

Headcanons:

• Knows a variety of languages. Italian, Spanish, Arabic, German, French being just a few of them.

• Mostly translates books. His favourite project so far was translating a food memoir by a famous food writer from Domvallier, Cordonia, from English and Arabic to a couple other languages.

• Has developed a YouTube channel to introduce beginners to Italian and Arabic, since those are the languages he knows most intimately.

• He and Maxwell hoped to be serious in their early 20s, but it didn't work out. Took a while before they could get back to their vibes as friends again but they are now at a good place with each other platonically.

Noèmie Dubois

Faceclaim: Agathe Bonitzer

From: Paris.

Pronouns and Sexuality: she/her, bisexual aromantic

Profession: Boutique owner

Headcanons:

• Loves wearing black

• Loves car racing

• Has two moms. Came out as a teen to her moms first.

• Most people know her as a very chilled out person. Very relaxed.

• Dated Maxwell casually a couple years back, but realized Maxwell and her friend Helene were unknowingly catching feelings for each other, so gently veered him in her direction 😂 Worked out well for all three of them.

Hugo Lefevre

Faceclaim: François Arnaud

From: Loire, but stays in Paris.

Pronouns and Sexuality: he/him, pansexual

Profession: Museum curator but used to be a tour guide in his early days.

Headcanons:

• Majored in art history

• Shy and a bit of a loner

• Was a tour guide who helped Maxwell once when he was lost in Paris on a tour the court was talking. They've been friends and trusted confidantes to each other ever since.

• Loves stargazing

• Isn't out as such except to a few people. Is more comfortable that way. Doesn't like socializing much, which makes the friendship with Maxwell a real surprise. Idea of a perfect night is to sit alone in front of a fireplace with a glass of wine. He doesn't have a fireplace as such right now, so a good glass of wine will do.

--

These last two are not people Maxwell knows, but are essential to Hana's journey to discovering who she really is, romance wise.

Robin Zhou

Faceclaim: Jess Tom

From: Shanghai, but they and their folks moved to San Francisco when they were younger.

Pronouns and Sexuality: They/them, bisexual

Profession: Professional chef, hosts dinners and parties. Does cooking classes in European cuisine on the weekends.

Headcanons:

• They went to culinary school in the States but travelled back on an all-China tour that lasted a year because they felt they didn't know their home cuisine well enough.

• They know Hana's cousin, Chuntao. She took a cooking class with them and wound up loving it.

• Frequents a bar named Roxie. This is where Hana will meet them in the fic.

Doralis Perez

Faceclaim: Elizabeth Acevedo

From: Brooklyn, born to Dominican-American parents.

Pronouns and Sexuality: she/her, lesbian

Profession: Was teaching for a while, but hopes to do her Ph.D one day. Currently works at the Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island Foundation.

Headcanons:

• Remember the college friend the MC talks about when she mentions the Ramen Incident of Senior Year? That's Doralis.

• Esther and Dora were batchmates and roommates in university

• She was promised a shitload of ramen to call in that favour for Liam

• Esther never got the time to do that, obviously, but she did request her aunt Vivienne to keep that promise in her stead

• Many things Esther knows - as a cishet woman - about sexualities and being an ally, she knows through her time with Dora and their circle of friends at University.

• Dora came out to all their friends by the end of their time at University. It wasn't very easy for her initially, but the environment was such that you had multiple support groups for queer and closeted people there.

• Esther was very much a part of that journey as a close friend who lived with her. That experience also informed how she handled Hana's coming out when she returned.

• Dora loves doing craft activities and has a blog full of fun, innovative and simple craft projects for kids and their parents.

[tessa-liam]

Marabelle Series   

 - Chapter 13 - If You Love Her 

Choices – The Royal Romance, AU – (cross-over with Rules of Engagement) 

Series Premise – An American teenager from New York City is introduced to the world of a small European country and its society of royalty, nobility, and commoners. How will her life story be transformed? Will this new adventure bring her happiness...or regret? 

Marabelle Series Masterlist, My Complete Masterlist 

Main Pairing – Crown Prince Liam Rys x F!OC Lady Sophia (Sophie) Taylor 

Other Pairings – Maxwell Beaumont x M!OC Daniel (from NYC), Drake Walker x F!OC Melanie Smithson 

Most characters belong to Pixelberry Studios 

Series Rating – M*🔞Warnings: this series will have NSFW material, drinking, crude language & innuendo. 

Not Beta’d - Please excuse all errors. 

Category – Alternate universe/on-going series/angst/fluff/cross-over with Choices Rules of Engagement 

Words: 3739

If You Love Her -13-

Chapter Summary – Liam is anointed as the crown prince of Cordonia. As this news is announced throughout the kingdom, Sophie is anticipating her meeting with Liam; the first meeting with him as the future king. 

Music & Title Inspiration: If You Love Her, Forest Blakk (feat, Meghan Trainor) 

A/N1: Bethany Beaumont, Maxwell’s mother, is originally from the U.S. and is Barthelemy Beaumont’s second wife. Annabelle Beaumont (deceased) is Bertrand’s mother. 

A/N2: ‘Social Season’ in this AU series refers to a traditional period in the spring/summer for royalty and members of the court to take part in Balls, dinner parties and charity events. 

A/N3: Heartfelt thanks to @Selina012 for joining me in writing ideas for this chapter. 

 

Following the announcement of Leo's abdication, the atmosphere within the palace had fallen into a somber mood. Madeleine, devastated by the news, had retired to her quarters immediately. Her thoughts reeling from the shock. Not wanting to be seen by anyone, she isolated herself from everyone; not accepting calls or visitors. 

As Liam returned to his suite, his thoughts were also consumed by the events of the past few days, as well as today. He sank into the plush armchair by the window as he gazed out at the sun-drenched gardens. A sense of calm settled over him. He had made a decision; and he was ready to act on it. 

Picking up his phone Liam tapped a familiar contact. As the phone rang, he felt his pulse quicken. 

"Sophie, hey, hi. I was wondering ...if we could meet later today?" 

"Yes, absolutely," Sophie responded, her voice carrying a hint of excitement. "It's so great to hear your voice! I look forward to it."

"Great. How does 8 o'clock sound?"  

"Perfect," Sophie replied. "I'll see you then." 

Liam smiled, a feeling of anticipation blooming in his chest. "I'll see you soon, love," he promised. 

As he ended the call and placed it down on a side table, his thoughts turned to the future and the possibilities it held. 

‘Take it 

If she gives you her heart 

Don’t you break it 

Let your arms be a place 

She feels safe in 

She’s the best thing that you’ll ever have’ 

___ 

In the midafternoon, Drake decided to give himself some much-needed relaxation time. He drove his truck out of the capital and headed for the country, the open road stretching out before him. 

The sun was high in the sky, casting its rays across the landscape. Drake rolled down his window, the warm breeze caressing his face. He felt a sense of peace and freedom as he drove, the cares and worries of yesterday evening left behind. He left, back at his cabin, his frustrations with Melanie. The past night was restless for him, trying to understand what triggered Melanie's mood after the polo match that caused him to regret his actions.  

He was not sure where their relationship was heading, and he was not sure if he was ready to commit to something so serious. Drake was not the type of man who was into romantic and grand gestures. Drake was the kind of man who preferred to take things slow, and Melanie's impulsive and demanding nature had put a strain on their relationship. 

Drake knew that he needed some space and time to sort out his feelings and try to understand why she was so jealous of Taylor. Drake pulled up at a gas station, filling his tank and then bought a cup of coffee to go. 

As he climbed into his truck and drove on, his thoughts wandered. He found himself wondering how Liam was handling the recent events in his world. He knew that his friend had a lot on his plate, and he hoped that he was taking the time to process everything. Yesterday, he knew Liam felt comfortable with his lifestyle. But today? He was Cordonia's crown prince. Tomorrow, he will be the King. 

Drake shook his head, pushing those thoughts away. He did not want to think about the drama surrounding the Cordonian royal family right now. Instead, he switched to remember Maxwell's words about Taylor. 

Drake sighed, gripping the steering wheel tightly. Maxwell told him that she was crying after the polo match. Drake felt a pang of guilt at his earlier remarks to her at the game. He did not want to admit it, but he could see why Liam had fallen for her. Taylor was not the usual social-climbing woman Drake was used to encountering in Cordonia. She was genuine, caring, and always seemed to be thinking of others. 

He was quite sure that Liam did not have time to tell her about Leo's abdication yet, so that wasn't it. Shit. How was she going to handle that? 

The news was bound to be a shock to Taylor, and Drake felt a strange desire to be there for her, to help her through the inevitable waves of emotions that would follow. But was that it? He felt that Maxwell was holding something back from him. 

He could not place his finger on it, but there was something about Maxwell's behavior that was making him concerned. Was she really all right? Was she hiding something from them? He knew that Taylor could handle herself, but he could not help the feeling of protectiveness that was growing inside him. 

House Beaumont, Ramsford

It was just after nine am when Daniel knocked on Sophie's door. Dressed in her PJ's, Sophie smiled at her best friend as the door opened. 

"Daniel, come in." She looked like she had a good night's sleep, her eyes shining brightly and her cheeks rosy, he thought to himself.

"Hey Squirrel, how are you feeling?" Sophie understood where his concern was coming from and why he was asking. It was written all over his face. He was worried. 

"I'm good, really. I had a nice sleep, and I'm looking forward to going to class this afternoon." She smiled. "You need to stop worrying, everything is fine.” 

Daniel wrapped his arms around her shoulders, hugging her tight to his chest as he placed his chin on top of her head. "Okay, I'm sorry, Squirrel. I can't help it. You know me. I worry. I just wish this whole thing with that noble didn't happen." 

"I'm not sure what that was about, but I'm okay. It's been two days, and it's over. If anything, it just made me more curious," Sophie answered with a sigh. 

"More curious about what? What is there to be curious about? You have seen a side of them you never wanted to see, and you should not have seen. And if it makes you feel better, I don't want to see them either." 

Sophie gasped as she turned her head, quickly moving her hand to her neck, feeling a twinge of neck pain. A very real memory of her fall after the polo match. "It's just that when he looked at me, there was something about his expression."  

"What do you mean, Soph?” Daniel questioned. “There's nothing to look for, he is a douche bag. He purposely hurt you. Look at you! ...your neck! You need to tell Liam." 

"No, I'm not doing that. He doesn't need to know; it'll only add fuel to the fire." 

"You don't get it, he needs to know," said Daniel. 

"Why does he need to know?" 

"So, he can take care of it," replied Daniel, slightly exasperated. 

"Take care of it how? By doing what?" 

"By kicking his ass." 

"And that will make things better how?" 

"I don't know, it's just... well, you know Liam, he's protective. He will not let it slide. If someone messes with you, they mess with him. It's the way it is." 

Sophie was silent for a moment. Daniel had a point, and she knew it. If anyone messed with her, Liam would have no problem taking them down a notch. The truth was, Sophie was trying to figure out how to bring it up to Liam. 

"You're right, and I do plan on telling him, I just don't know how to bring it up. I am well aware that he's going to go after him." 

"That's the least of your worries," said Daniel. "This guy's dangerous. You could have been seriously injured. Hell, you still might have injuries we don't even know about. I'm glad he didn't break anything." 

"He didn't, and I'm not. I'll be fine." Sophie was beginning to feel annoyed. It was an accident, and she had to make Daniel understand. She could take care of herself.

Sophie checked the time on her phone. She had one more class this afternoon to end the week and then she could get back home to get ready to meet with Liam. "I need to get ready to go. Maxwell will be ready to go soon." 

University of Cordonia, Capital

Sliding frantically into her seat beside Sophie, Candace plopped down out of breath. Candace, or Candy for short, was a fellow sophomore in the second year Poli Sci class.

"Oh my gosh, did I miss anything?" 

"No, you are just in time," Sophie whispered, glancing down at her notes. 

"Sorry, I had a late date with my boyfriend last night." Candace whispered back, trying not to draw attention to herself. 

"How's it going with you and Tom?" Sophie murmured, curiosity getting the better of her. 

"Oh, it's more than great, I think we're getting serious." Candace said, a dreamy expression on her face. 

"That's good to hear." Sophie smiled, shaking her head.

At the end of the class, the professor cleared his throat, "All right everyone, have a great weekend." As the students began to leave the lecture hall, Candace turned to Sophie. "Hey, want to grab a bite to eat? I'm starving." 

"Sure, let's go." Sophie smiled. "I have a few minutes before I meet with Max for the drive home." 

"Great. There's a new pizza place that opened near the quad, want to check it out?" 

"That's sounds good." 

The girls made their way through the hallway to the front entrance of the building, dodging students that were hurrying to their next class. 

Just ss they were walking past the library, Sophie could have sworn she heard Liam's voice. 

"Excuse me for a minute, I have to check something out." Sophie paused peering into the crowded entryway.

"Sure." 

Sophie walked toward the library, hoping she would find Liam inside. She entered the large foyer and looked around, but he was nowhere in sight.  That is, until she looked up at the video screen mounted on the wall behind the front desk. A live image of the palace throne room was being broadcast, and on top of the dais was Liam, Queen Regina and King Constantine, all dressed in their royal regalia. 

She walked closer and stopped. Liam looked so handsome, the camera lens picking up every detail, down to the glint in his blue eyes and the slight grin on his lips. 

Sophie watched with fascination as the king spoke. 

"We are gathered here today to announce the ascension of my son to crown prince Liam Rys of Cordonia.” 

"Liam has demonstrated his commitment to the Crown, and his ability to lead the kingdom. Today, we honor him and name him heir to the throne. My son, may you carry out your duties with pride and compassion and to ensure the continued success of Cordonia." 

Regina beamed at Liam. "You have been chosen as the heir, and I'm confident that you will serve the kingdom well." 

King Constantine placed a hand on Liam's shoulder. "Cordonia is honored to have you, Liam. As your father, I could not be prouder." 

"I'm honored by your faith in me, sir," Liam spoke. "I'll do my best to live up to your expectations, and to those of our people." 

Sophie was so caught up in the ceremony, she did not notice Candace approach. 

"Whoa, is that the prince? That's Liam, right? He is gorgeous. Wow, you are so lucky to have danced with him at the masquerade ball!" 

Sophie blushed, realizing that her friend was standing beside her, staring at the screen with her. "Yeah, that's him." 

"Oh. My. God! You're going to be queen!"  Candace was the only person, outside of nobility, that knew about her connection with the royal family.

"Shhhh! Keep your voice down!" Sophie put a finger to her lips, motioning for her friend to lower her voice. "It's not official. Besides, he hasn't proposed to me yet." 

"Not yet, but soon." Candace grinned, a mischievous twinkle in her eye. "And when he does, I'll be the first to congratulate you. I can't wait to see the wedding dress." 

Sophie chuckled, shaking her head, and remained silent.

"Well, you better start planning. It's not every day a girl becomes royalty. And with a king for a husband, no less." 

Sophie looked up at the screen. She knew it was possibility. She had thought about it often. Being queen would mean leaving her life behind and living a vastly different one, but it would be with the man she loved. She could not ask for anything more. 

House Beaumont, Ramsford

Aunt Bethany appeared in the foyer to personally greet Liam, dressed in a beautiful silk dress. 

"Your Highness, it's an honor to have you as a guest in our home." Bethany bowed her head with a curtsy as the newly named crown prince kissed her cheek and gave her a warm smile. "Thank you, Duchess Bethany. It's always a pleasure to visit your duchy." 

"May I take you to the terrace, your highness?" Aunt Bethany asked, "Sophie has been waiting for you." 

"You may and thank you." Liam replied graciously, as he followed her out to the terrace. 

Liam spotted Sophie sitting in the wicker swing, looking breathtakingly beautiful in a white and blue summer dress. 

She stood and walked towards Liam, her eyes sparkling with excitement. He was dressed in a simple pair of jeans and a white polo shirt, his hair perfectly tousled and his eyes twinkling with excitement. 

"Sophie," he said, his voice sending shivers down her spine. 

"I'm glad you made it." She smiled warmly. 

"Of course, I'd never miss a chance to see you." he said as he took her hand and brought it up to his lips. 

"Liam," she replied, her voice barely above a whisper. 

His arms wrapped around her waist, pulling her close as he gazed into her eyes. "You look amazing," he murmured, his lips brushing against her ear. 

"Thank you," she breathed, her cheeks flushing. 

"Walk with me?" he asked, gazing intently into her eyes. 

"I'd love to." 

Sophie's Aunt Bethany excused herself, leaving them alone. She turned back into estate, and joined her husband, Barthelemy.

They walked into the vineyard, hand in hand, as Liam began speaking. 

"Sophie, I wanted to tell you this in person. After my father abdicates the throne, I will officially be named king of Cordonia. It's an incredible honor, and a huge responsibility." 

Sophie nodded. "I saw you on the news this afternoon." 

"Good. I am relieved you had the opportunity to hear the news from my father. With Leo removing himself from succession, the rumours were swirling and my father made the decision to name me as his heir. This is a very important step for Cordonia, and for me. I've never been more ready." 

Liam paused, gazing into her eyes. 

"How has your father been feeling?" Sophie asked looking up, wanting to know all the details. 

"He's well. His doctor told him that he should retire soon though. My father was hesitant to accept that at first, but he finally agreed to pass the crown to me. But even now, he still works long hours and takes meetings." 

"And how are you feeling?" 

"Honestly, I'm a little nervous, but I am incredibly honored to become Cordonia's leader," Liam admitted. "I am looking forward to taking the crown. I am ready." 

"...and Leo? How does he feel?"

"I can't say I'm surprised with Leo. It turns out that he had been planning to abdicate for a while." Liam shrugged. "He was never happy with the idea of being king. He was always more interested in exploring and having adventures. And then add Madeleine to the mix." 

Sophie frowned. "Did he abdicate because of her?" 

"I don't think it was solely because of her, but it certainly wasn't helping." 

"How did she take the news?" 

"Not well, which isn't surprising. She had been so excited about being queen, and now it's all gone." 

Sophie's eyes widened. "So, she's not..." 

"No, no, she's not. She'll never be queen." Liam finished. 

Sophie bit her lip, processing this information. "I'm sorry to hear that for her." 

"Me too. But, that's not what I wanted to talk to you about. Sophie, I have a request of you." 

"What is it? Does this change things for us?" She asked hesitantly, her eyes searching his for an answer.  

"Not for me," Liam replied firmly, his hand reaching up to stroke her cheek. "My feelings for you are stronger than ever."  

"Even though you're going to be king, and I'm just a regular university student?" Sophie asked, her voice barely above a whisper. 

"Yes. You're not just a regular university student, Sophie. To me you are everything. You are the woman I love, and I would do anything for you." 

"Really? Even marry me?" Sophie's cheeks flushed red, embarrassed by her own boldness. 

Liam laughed heartily. "Yes, even marry you. My cheeky little monkey!" 

"You make me feel so special." Sophie's smile grew wider. 

"You are special." Liam replied, his voice sincere. 

"I love you." Sophie whispered, gazing up at him. 

"I love you too." He smiled. 

They sat down on a bench sharing a comfortable silence, holding hands. After a few minutes, Liam turned to her, a thoughtful look on his face. 

"Sophie, can I ask you something else?" 

"Sure, what is it?" 

"I've been thinking about the future lately, and there's something I'd like to do. It's a bit unconventional, and I'm not sure if you'll agree." 

"Oh, what is it?" Sophie asked curiously. 

"I'd like to take you to Italy." 

Sophie looked at him in surprise. "Italy? What are you talking about?" 

"There's a small, out of the way place there that has the most beautiful sunsets. I would love for you to see them with me." 

"When?" 

"As soon as we can. I'd like to go tonight, actually." 

"Tonight? That's so soon. I promised Maxwell that I would attend his graduation ceremony and party this weekend. He would be so disappointed if I wasn't there." 

"Of course, we shouldn't disappoint Maxwell and I do have to meet with Francesco in regard to tax reforms very soon. Let's plan for the first weekend in July." 

"That sounds perfect." Sophie smiled. 

"Excellent." 

As they turned to return to the estate, Sophie's nerves calmed, and she relaxed into his embrace, pulling him close, his presence grounding her. 

They stopped at the terrace, and Liam turned to her, a serious expression on his face. 

"Sophie, I need to ask you about something," he began, his eyes locking with hers. 

"What is it?" she asked, her heart racing as she tried to predict what he was about to say. 

"But I have to be honest with you," he continued, his expression somber. "Being the crown prince comes with a lot of responsibility, and it won't be easy." 

"What does that mean for us?" 

"It means that I want you by my side, Sophie," Liam said earnestly, his eyes burning with intensity. "I want you to be my partner, my confidant, and the woman I love." 

Sophie felt as if her heart were about to burst from happiness, her lips curving into a wide smile. 

"I want that too, Liam," she replied, her voice quivering with emotion. 

"There's something else," Liam added, his tone hesitant. "Cordonia has a law that states the crown prince must be engaged before the coronation." 

Sophie's stomach flipped, the realization dawning on her. "Does this mean that... we can't be together? Or ..." she hesitated, her voice filled with anxiety and uncertainty. 

"Not exactly," Liam said, taking her hands in his. "We can still be together and there will be no social season to search for a suitable match, but only if you agree to marry me." 

Sophie's heart soared at his words, her breath catching in her throat. 

"Liam," she said softly, her eyes filling with tears. "Are you... are you asking me to marry you?" 

"Yes," Liam replied, his eyes searching hers. "Sophie, will you marry me?" 

She hesitated for a moment, her heart pounding as she thought about the decision before her. 

"Yes," she whispered, her voice trembling. "Yes, I will marry you, Liam." 

Liam's face broke into a wide grin, his arms wrapping around her and pulled her close as he placed his hand on her cheek to kiss her deeply. 

As they walked into the estate, the world seemed to fade away, and it was only them, two souls bound together by their love. 

'Take it

If she gives you her heart

Dont you breeak it

Let your arms be a place

She feels safe in

Shes the best thing that you'll ever have

She'll love you

If you love her'

Thanks for reading; please let me know if you would like to be added or removed from this series.

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[belencha77]

CAP 43 - ENCUENTROS Y REVELACIONES

Horas después…

Siento que alguien toca mi puerta. Despierto sobresaltada y, al mirar la hora, veo que ya es media tarde. Me había tomado muy en serio el descanso. Me levanto con cierta pereza para ver quién es y descubro a Hana sonriéndome al otro lado con una expresión de preocupación.

|| ¡Amiga! ¿Cómo te fue con el descanso? Me imagino que el cambio de horario te afectó bastante ||

|| Un poco, pero a pesar de todo me fue perfecto || respondo con una sonrisa, mientras suelto un pequeño bostezo || De hecho, siento que he recuperado casi por completo mi energía. ¿Y tú? ¿Cómo has estado? ¿Aprovechaste estas horas con Maxwell? ||

Hana se sonroja, su mirada se vuelve un poco más seria.

|| Bueno... sí, no puedo negar que aproveché el tiempo con él || confiesa, riéndose nerviosamente y con un toque de picardía || Pero no puedo evitar preocuparme. Espero que mis padres puedan ver lo maravilloso que es Max. Tengo un miedo profundo de que no lo acepten. Sé que lo investigaron y no tienen una buena impresión de él debido a su pasado. Conocen sus excesos y errores, y temen que esos aspectos negativos aún lo definan ||

|| ¿En serio lo investigaron? || pregunto, sintiendo una mezcla de sorpresa y preocupación.

|| Así es, amiga... Lo hicieron. Quisieron conocer el historial de todos los nobles y caballeros de Cordonia. Querían saber qué me esperaba allá si no lograba casarme con Liam || explica Hana, con un tono de frustración.¡Cielos! Pienso para mis adentros, sorprendida por la intensidad de la situación.

|| Bueno, ellos están buscando a un hombre noble que se case contigo, ¿verdad? Max es un noble. Puede que no tenga el título de Duque como Bertrand, pero no creo que las cosas de su pasado deban afectar su presente. ¿Ya decidiste avisarles que estás con él? ||

|| Sí, estoy decidida a hablar con ellos. De hecho, ya lo conversé con Max, pero se puso más nervioso de lo que estaba al llegar, él piensa que es lo mejor. También decidió avisarle a Bertrand, aunque no ha sabido nada de él en muchos días || Hana toma mis manos con una mezcla de emoción y determinación || Riley, ya no quiero esperar más. Me cansé de esta farsa. No me importa lo que diga Madeleine, y si ella no me desea en su corte, pues no me importa. De todas maneras, me quedaré y te apoyaré en todo. Tengo mucha esperanza de que pronto limpiarás tu nombre, amiga ||

|| ¡Gracias, Hana! || exclamo, abrazándola fuertemente || Yo también tengo la esperanza de que así será, pero sobre todo estoy muy feliz por tu decisión y, por supuesto, por los dos. Ten en cuenta que, si necesitas mi apoyo para lo que sea, lo tienes. Estoy tan feliz de que por fin estén luchando por el amor que nació entre ustedes ||

|| Gracias, Riley. Gracias por siempre haber sido la que me empujó y animó para esto. Si no fuera por ti, nunca hubiera dejado entrar a Max en mi corazón || Me dice con una gran sonrisa.

|| Hana, cuando dos corazones están destinados a estar juntos, a pesar de los vientos y las mareas, terminan unidos || digo, mientras un suspiro escapa de mis labios. Ojalá pudiera sentir lo mismo. Ya no quiero más tormentas entre Liam y yo. Honestamente, espero que, al hablar con Constantino, todo esto se resuelva y limpie de una vez por todas mi nombre. Sin darme cuenta, pequeñas lágrimas de desesperación y ansiedad comienzan a brotar de mis ojos. Hana me observa y me abraza con ternura.

|| Amiga, muy pronto tendrás la solución que necesitas. Solo mantén la esperanza || me dice, sonriendo y tratando de animarme.

|| Sí, al fin y al cabo, la esperanza es lo último que se pierde, ¿no? || respondo, separándome lentamente de Hana y limpiando las pocas lágrimas de mis mejillas con una leve sonrisa || Bueno, cambiando de tema radicalmente tengo que decir que Shanghái es realmente impresionante. La ciudad brilla con una mezcla fascinante de modernidad y tradición que la hace única. Las luces de los rascacielos reflejan un mosaico de colores en el río Huangpu, mientras que las calles más antiguas, con sus edificios de estilo colonial y sus mercados bulliciosos, cuentan historias del pasado ||

|| Gracias. Shanghái es precioso. Mis padres y yo amamos vivir aquí. Estoy tan emocionada de presentarte a mi papá, Riley || responde Hana, con una sonrisa orgullosa.

|| Hablando de eso... ¿crees que él tenga un buen concepto de mí? Si investigaron a Maxwell, lo más probable es que también lo hayan hecho conmigo ||

|| Sinceramente, mi padre ha tenido ciertos prejuicios hacia ti desde que todo este lío comenzó. Pero lo único que espero es que, al conocerte, esos sentimientos cambien por completo || expresa Hana, con una mezcla de preocupación y esperanza en su voz.

|| Espero de verdad que cambie su opinión al conocerme. No quiero que piense que soy una mala influencia para ti || respondo, con un nudo en la garganta.

|| Nunca podrías ser una mala influencia, Riley. Lo que más deseo es que mi padre conozca a mi mejor amiga y vea lo que yo veo en ti: una mujer increíblemente inteligente, bondadosa, considerada y divertida. Puede que haya conocido a muchas mujeres nobles, pero estoy segura de que ninguna es como tú || dice Hana con una sinceridad que me llena de emoción.

|| Hana, qué palabras tan hermosas || digo, conmovida, mientras la abrazo con fuerza || Me alegra tanto tener tu apoyo. Entonces, ¿cuáles son los planes para hoy? ||

|| Para las cuatro de la tarde tenemos programado un tour por la Reserva Natural de Chongming Dongtan. La familia real y la corte están invitadas, y mi padre está más que emocionado por el evento. Después, iremos a la cena. Tenemos tiempo para prepararnos, pero antes, ¿qué te parece si almorzamos juntas? Maxwell nos está esperando en el restaurante del hotel ||

|| Claro, me encantaría || respondo, sintiendo una calidez en el corazón.

**

Los tres disfrutamos de una deliciosa comida, pero al mirar mi reloj, noté que ya eran alrededor de las tres de la tarde. Era el momento de prepararnos para el tour en la reserva natural.

|| Chicos, he disfrutado mucho comer y conversar con ustedes, pero creo que es hora de que nos alistemos || digo con calma mientras Maxwell consulta su reloj.

|| ¡Santo cielo! Tienes razón, mi flor. Me he perdido por completo en el tiempo. No podemos llegar tarde || responde Maxwell, saltando de su asiento con ansiedad || Iré a mi habitación para traerte el atuendo que Justin me dio para ti || Dirige una mirada angustiada a Hana || ¿Nos vemos luego, nena? Necesito ir a ver el vestido ||

|| Si quieres, te acompaño. Puedo ayudarte || ofrece Hana con entusiasmo.

|| ¡Perfecto! || responde Maxwell || Llamaré a Sara para que vaya de inmediato a tu habitación. Supongo que su almuerzo con Drake ya ha terminado ||

Maxwell menciona esto mientras Hana y yo intercambiamos miradas sorprendidas. No puedo evitar pensar en cómo Drake parece estar tomando el asunto con Sara muy en serio. Aunque sé que no debería afectarme, siento un leve destello de celos. Me sorprende que, a pesar de mi decisión de seguir adelante, no puedo evitar sentirme un poco incómoda con la situación.

|| Está bien, entonces iré a mi habitación. Los espero allí || respondo, tratando de centrarme en lo que viene y no dejar que mis sentimientos me distraigan.

**

Minutos después de haber regresado a mi habitación, alguien comenzó a tocar la puerta. Al abrir, me encontré con Sara, quien me saludó con una gran sonrisa.

|| Hola, Riley. ¿Cómo estás? || pregunta con su sonrisa inmutable. Me sorprende la fuerza de sus emociones, y no puedo evitar preguntarme si mis celos hacia la situación entre Drake y Sara son ridículos. No tengo derecho a reclamarle a Drake ni a Sara, y él es libre de salir con quien quiera. ¿Serán celos de amiga? ¿Por qué rayos siento esta confusión? Me sacudo rápidamente estos pensamientos y trato de ofrecerle mi mejor sonrisa.

|| Hola, Sara, qué gusto verte || digo, haciéndome a un lado para dejarla pasar. Su sonrisa, radiante e inamovible, revela claramente que su felicidad está relacionada con “Drake Walker”.

|| Para hoy, tengo el peinado y maquillaje perfectos. Lord Maxwell me dijo que tenías que verte radiante, lo cual no es muy difícil, así que vine más que preparada || afirma Sara, con confianza.

|| Gracias por tus halagos. Confío plenamente en ti || le respondo, mientras ella comienza con el maquillaje. El proceso es rápido y eficiente, después de lo cual se enfoca en mi peinado. Sara me hace unos espectaculares bucles con una media cola recogiendo todo el cabello, añadiendo una hermosa trenza a los costados para unirlo todo. No puedo negar que las manos de esta mujer son mágicas.

Justo cuando Sara está a punto de terminar, Maxwell entra sin previo aviso, sosteniendo un hermoso vestido celeste pastel.

|| Tengo el vestido, mi flor || exclamó Maxwell, ansioso, mientras me miraba. Luego notó que no estaba sola || Mil disculpas, hola, Sara. ¿Cómo estás? Veo que has dejado a mi flor prácticamente lista || Sara le sonrió y realizó una pequeña reverencia || ¿Qué opinas, mi flor? ¿No te parece hermoso? ||

El vestido es una pieza delicada y elegante, ideal para la ocasión. Hecho de un suave tejido de gasa que fluye con gracia, tiene un corte en A que realza la figura sin ser demasiado ajustado, permitiendo movimiento y comodidad durante la visita a la reserva. Los detalles sutiles de encaje en el escote y los puños añaden un toque de sofisticación sin restarle funcionalidad.

|| Maxwell, es perfecto... No tengo palabras para describirlo || le digo, llena de emoción.

|| ¡Genial! Entonces ve y pruébatelo || responde con ansiedad.

|| Sara, ¿me ayudas? || pregunto, y ella me sonríe ampliamente. Ambas entramos en mi vestidor. Sara me asiste con el vestido de manera ágil y precisa. Primero, me pide que levante los brazos mientras ella desliza el vestido por mis hombros y lo ajusta en su lugar. Luego, cierra el zipper en la espalda y añade un cinturón fino para definir mi cintura. Ajusta el cinturón con precisión, para que realce mi figura sin apretar demasiado. Luego, se agacha para ayudarme con los zapatos. Me los coloca con delicadeza, asegurándose de que queden bien puestos. A continuación, Sara selecciona un collar delicado y elegante que complementa el vestido a la perfección. Es un collar de plata con un pequeño colgante de diamantes en forma de gota, que cuelga justo debajo del escote del vestido. La luz captura los destellos de los diamantes, aportando un brillo sutil que realza la elegancia del conjunto. Finalmente, se asegura de que todo esté en su sitio y me da un último vistazo para ajustar cualquier detalle. Al verme, toma de una caja de joyas una pulsera de perlas que Liam me regaló. Con cuidado, la coloca en mi muñeca, ajustándola para que complemente perfectamente el conjunto. El brillo suave de las perlas añade un toque de elegancia adicional que realza el atuendo. Mientras me veo en el espejo, admiro mi reflejo. No puedo creer que la mujer que está allí soy yo; cuánto he cambiado en este tiempo.

|| ¡Riley, te ves hermosa! ¡Como toda una princesa! || exclama Sara al mirarme. Antes de que pueda responder, Maxwell interrumpe con entusiasmo.

|| ¡Vamos, mi flor, necesito verte! ||

|| ¡Voy! || grito, y salgo rápidamente para que Maxwell me vea. Al verme, queda con la boca abierta || ¿Qué te parece? || pregunto, curiosa por su reacción.

|| Preciosa, mi flor, brillas como un diamante. No te imaginas lo orgulloso que estoy de verte en lo que te has convertido || dijo Maxwell, abrazándome con fuerza. Realmente quiero a Max como el hermano que nunca pude tener. Sin querer, unas lágrimas brotaron de mis ojos. Me separé de él, y Maxwell, con ternura, secó mis lágrimas.

|| Max, todo esto ha sido gracias a ti, a Bertrand, a Hana, y a tantas otras personas que me han ayudado... Gracias por todo. El vestido es perfecto || le agradezco mientras intento limpiar las lágrimas restantes y tomo una respiración profunda para controlar mis emociones || Muy bien, ¿nos vamos? || Pregunte y Maxwell asintió con entusiasmo.

|| ¡Claro que sí! Vámonos, que tenemos una tarde interesante por delante || exclamó Maxwell. En ese momento, Chance saltó a mis pies. Me agaché para recogerlo entre mis brazos; él también iba a acompañarnos.

|| Sí, mi pequeño, tú vienes conmigo. Sara, gracias por todo. Nos vemos luego || le dije a Sara, que asintió con una sonrisa.

Maxwell me dio una última mirada alentadora y, con una breve señal de cabeza hacia la puerta, indicó que era hora de partir. Salimos juntos hacia la reserva natural, listos para la emocionante tarde que nos esperaba.

**

Mientras nos acercábamos a la Reserva Natural de Chongming Dongtan en el auto privado, la ciudad comenzó a desvanecerse, reemplazada por un paisaje natural que parecía sacado de un sueño. Las calles de concreto dieron paso a caminos rodeados de vegetación exuberante y campos verdes que se extendían hasta el horizonte.

Cuando llegamos, la primera impresión que tuve fue la de un oasis de calma y belleza. La entrada principal estaba adornada con un elegante arco de madera tallada, decorado con intrincados detalles florales que se mezclaban perfectamente con el entorno natural. Sentí una oleada de tranquilidad al respirar el aire fresco y limpio, y el susurro del viento entre los árboles parecía susurrar promesas de un día perfecto. De pronto, mientras sigo admirando el lugar, noto cómo Hana y Maxwell se quedan detrás de mí conversando en voz baja. Supongo que deben estar hablando sobre el tan esperado y temido encuentro de Maxwell con el padre de Hana. Aunque Max hace su mejor esfuerzo por disimular, puedo ver el nerviosismo y la ansiedad en sus ojos, incluso si trata de negármelo.

Mientras camino, mi mente es un torbellino de pensamientos. Intento planear cómo abordar a Constantino, buscando las palabras adecuadas que podrían finalmente limpiar mi nombre. La ansiedad me oprime el pecho al pensar que, por fin, toda esta farsa podría llegar a su fin. Siento una mezcla de esperanza y temor que me consume por dentro.

De repente, Drake aparece de la nada y me sobresalta.

|| ¡Brown! || exclamó mientras sus ojos recorrieron mi apariencia de arriba abajo.

|| ¡Drake! Cielos, me asustaste || respondí, con el corazón latiendo a mil por hora.

|| ¡Lo lamento! No era mi intención asustarte… Por cierto, te ves muy hermosa || me dice Drake, mirándome con atención y haciendo que me ruborice un poco. ¡Maldición! Detesto este sentimiento que de repente me invade.

|| Gracias, Drake… Honestamente, no pensé verte aquí ||

|| ¿Y por qué lo dices? || pregunta con curiosidad.

|| Porque supuse que preferirías estar con la compañía que tuviste en tu almuerzo en lugar de estar en una reunión llena de nobles || exclamé, dejando que los celos infundados hablaran por mí. ¡Rayos! No debería dejarme dominar por ellos.

Drake me mira extrañado, arqueando una ceja, y justo cuando iba a responderme, Max y Hana llegan. A lo lejos, escucho a Liam aclarar su garganta mientras se coloca frente a la multitud junto con Madeleine. Todos los asistentes guardan silencio, esperando saber qué es lo que el rey tiene que decir.

|| Buenas tardes a todos. Es un gran honor para nosotros realizar este recorrido en la reserva. De todo corazón, espero que esta visita contribuya a los esfuerzos de conservación de Cordonia. Ahora les pido que sigan a nuestro anfitrión || dijo Liam, asintiendo respetuosamente hacia un grupo de miembros del personal, vestidos con pantalones y camisas a juego. Un hombre de traje, parado frente a ellos, se inclinó educadamente ante Liam.

Todos los asistentes comenzaron a seguir al personal de la reserva. Nosotros hicimos lo mismo mientras nos explicaban el itinerario del tour y nos entregaban mapas y folletos. La reserva, en plena floración, ofrecía un espectáculo impresionante con campos de juncos verdes y flores silvestres en tonos vibrantes. Los hábitats naturales de aves y animales formaban un paisaje pintoresco que se extendía hasta el horizonte.

Nos dirigimos al área de observación principal, equipada con plataformas y senderos elevados que permitían apreciar la majestuosidad del lugar sin perturbar su paz. El aroma a tierra húmeda y vegetación fresca llenaba el aire, acompañado por el canto alegre de las aves, creando una melodía relajante que me envolvía completamente.

Mientras caminábamos, el personal de la reserva nos explicó sobre la diversidad de flora y fauna, señalando varias especies de aves y plantas únicas en la región. Escuchábamos atentamente, absorbiendo la información y disfrutando de la belleza del entorno. De repente, escuché a Hana gritar de emoción.

|| ¡PAPÁ! || Todos giramos para ver al hombre de traje, que estaba junto a Liam, acercarse a nosotros. Hana dio un paso más cerca del señor y lo saludó con entusiasmo.

|| Hija mía, allí estás || exclamó el hombre, abrazándola. Una vez unido a nuestro grupo, Hana lo presentó.

|| Amigos, les presento a mi padre, Tao Lee || dijo Hana. Tanto Drake como Maxwell hicieron una pequeña reverencia antes de extenderle la mano.

|| Un gusto, señor Lee || exclamó Maxwell || Mi nombre es Lord Maxwell Beaumont ||

|| Un placer conocerlo, señor || añadió Drake con una sonrisa educada || Me llamo Drake Walker ||

El señor Lee asintió y sonrió a ambos.

|| Oh, tú eres el hijo de Jackson Walker, ¿verdad? || preguntó el padre de Hana, mostrando un interés intrigado || Un gran hombre ||

|| Agradezco sus amables palabras, señor Lee || respondió Drake con gratitud. Luego, Tao Lee dirigió su mirada fija hacia mí, evaluándome con una mezcla de curiosidad y cautela.

|| Ni hao, señor Lee || dije con una gran sonrisa imitando la reverencia de los chicos antes de extender mi mano || Es un gusto poder conocerlo, mi nombre es Lady Riley Brown ||

|| Ni hao, Lady Brown || respondió él, estrechándome la mano con firmeza y una leve sonrisa || Es un gusto conocerte en persona. Aunque he escuchado mucho sobre ti de mi hija y, obviamente, de la prensa sensacionalista. No es ideal tener el nombre de uno en ese tipo de publicaciones, ¿no te parece? || De pronto, Hana, Drake y Maxwell me miraban con angustia. No puede evitar sentir un nudo en el estómago, pero me obligué a sonreír con calma.

|| No, no lo es, señor Lee. A veces, la prensa puede ser bastante injusta y distorsionar la verdad. Creo que centrarse en ellos solo avivaría las llamas. Sin embargo, estoy agradecida por tener la oportunidad de aclarar cualquier malentendido y mostrar quién soy realmente. ¿No le parece? || Respondí con firmeza, notando que el señor Lee me observaba detenidamente, evaluando cada palabra que decía. Después de un momento, su expresión se suavizó.

|| Esa es una estrategia interesante. A veces, desestimar los rumores al no responderles puede ser más eficaz que intentar contradecirlos. He utilizado tácticas similares cuando mi negocio ha enfrentado afirmaciones falsas. Sinceramente, no esperaba ver esa mentalidad en alguien tan joven como tú. || Comentó el señor Lee con admiración. Aunque no estaba del todo segura de que mi respuesta se relacionara con relaciones públicas, me sentí complacida de recibir su reconocimiento.

|| En realidad, es más una cuestión de mantener mi integridad frente a los desafíos. || Respondí con una sonrisa segura.

|| Lo que me preocupa es que parece que tienes enemigos, y eso me inquieta profundamente. La asociación de mi hija contigo podría ponerla en riesgo. Un escándalo podría afectar su reputación tanto como ha afectado la tuya. || Dijo el señor Lee, su preocupación evidente.

|| Entiendo su preocupación. Es cierto que enfrentar escándalos puede ser complicado y puede tener repercusiones en quienes nos rodean. Sin embargo, quiero que sepa que valoro profundamente la relación que tengo con su hija y estoy dispuesta a enfrentar cualquier adversidad para protegerla. || Respondí con firmeza. || Pero si mi amistad con Hana llegara a causar algún problema o dañara su reputación, me alejaría con dolor en el corazón y le daría el espacio que necesita. No quiero hacer nada que pueda perjudicar su camino. Nunca haría nada para lastimarla. ||

|| Padre, no quiero que Riley se aleje de mí. || Exclamó Hana con preocupación. El señor Lee me miró, sorprendido y con respeto.

|| Aprecio tu sinceridad y tu disposición a proteger a mi hija. Eso dice mucho sobre tu carácter. || Dijo el señor Lee, mostrando una expresión más relajada. || Espero que podamos trabajar juntos para construir algo positivo a pesar de los desafíos. ||

Mis tres amigos me sonrieron, y sentí una gran satisfacción al ver que había causado una buena impresión en el padre de Hana. De repente, una risa contagiosa llamó nuestra atención. Reconocí esa risa al instante. Al volver la vista hacia atrás, noté que Liam estaba en un área exclusiva para pandas, disfrutando de la visita.

|| ¡Oh, santo cielo! ¡Pandas! || Exclamó Maxwell, corriendo sin darse cuenta de que empujó a Drake y a mí. Sin demora, llegó al área donde estaban las adorables crías de panda. Todos nos dirigimos hacia allí, contagiados por su entusiasmo.

|| Padre, son encantadores. ¿Crees que podríamos entrar también, por favor? || Preguntó Hana con emoción.

|| Normalmente, el personal no permite muchas visitas y solo se hizo una excepción para el Rey Liam, pero... creo que puedo convencerlos de que hagan otra. || Respondió el señor Lee con confianza. Se alejó para hablar con algunos miembros del personal y, al cabo de unos momentos, regresó con una amplia sonrisa. || Bueno, parece que tienen suerte. Todos ustedes pueden unirse al Rey Liam y a los cachorros, incluido este pequeño. || Dijo, dirigiéndose a mi perro Chance. || Supongo que es un caballero bien portado, ¿verdad? ||

|| Es todo un caballero, señor Lee. Se portará muy bien, es el mejor de los perros. || Respondió Maxwell con entusiasmo.

|| ¡Perfecto! Entonces, ¡vamos! || Dijo el señor Lee, antes de que Hana lo abrazara.

|| Gracias, padre. || Exclamó Hana con alegría.

Al entrar al área de los pandas, un miembro del personal nos entregó guantes azules y batas para usar durante nuestra visita. Una vez listos, otro miembro del staff abrió la puerta y nos condujo hacia donde estaban los cachorros y Liam.

Al vernos, Liam estalló en una sonrisa radiante, su expresión iluminada con una mezcla de sorpresa y alegría. Sus ojos se encontraron con los míos y, por un instante, todo lo demás pareció desvanecerse. La emoción en su rostro era evidente, y no pudo ocultar su entusiasmo al verme unida a él en este momento especial. Su mirada estaba cargada de admiración y cariño, y el hecho de que estuviéramos juntos en este lugar tan encantador solo acentuaba el vínculo que compartíamos.

Liam no podía apartar la vista de mí, como si cada instante en el que estábamos juntos fuera un tesoro. Su reacción hizo que mi corazón latiera con fuerza, sintiendo una conexión profunda y sincera en medio de la maravillosa experiencia que estábamos viviendo.

| Espero que estés mucho más tranquila ahora. || Me dijo, aprovechando que el grupo estaba distraído jugando con los pequeños cachorros de panda.

|| Puedo asegurarte que, cuando estoy contigo, cualquier preocupación se desvanece. A tu lado es exactamente donde quisiera estar siempre. || Respondí, mirándolo fijamente. Él acercó prudentemente su mano a la mía y me la apretó suavemente.

|| Qué coincidencia, siento lo mismo. || Dijo, sonriendo, y yo le respondí con una gran sonrisa también.

|| ¿Y cómo estuvo tu mañana? ¿Qué tal tus reuniones? || Le pregunté con curiosidad.

|| Podría decir que me fue bien, pero llegar a este lugar me ha dado la paz y tranquilidad que buscaba. Sinceramente, necesitaba esto. || Contestó él.

|| Yo también necesitaba algo así... Por cierto, ¿por qué tu prometida no te acompañó al santuario de los pandas? || Pregunté con duda. Liam se quedó en silencio por unos segundos, mirando a los pandas con una expresión nostálgica.

|| La verdad es que ella no es muy amante de los animales. Por eso prefirió seguir con los guías hacia el otro lado de la reserva. || En su mirada pude ver una mezcla de nostalgia y tristeza. || Esa es una de las muchas cosas en las que no congeniamos. Si llego a casarme con ella, no sé qué futuro me espera. ||

De repente, sentí una ola de desesperación por Liam y por nosotros. Está atado a este compromiso sin poder hacer mucho, preocupado principalmente por su pueblo y no tanto por su propio bienestar.

|| Liam, todo estará bien. Una vez que hablemos con tu padre, encontraremos la salida que necesitamos. || Le dije con firmeza, sintiendo cómo la esperanza se reflejaba en sus ojos.

|| Tienes razón. ¿Por qué me dejo llevar por el pesimismo? Mi padre es la clave. || Respondió, con una mirada de renovada ilusión.De repente, nos llamó la atención el alegre bullicio de Hana y Maxwell jugando con los pequeños pandas. Observé a nuestro alrededor y noté que todos seguían completamente absortos en el juego con los adorables animales. Impulsada por un deseo repentino de compartir un momento especial con Liam, me acerqué lentamente y le di un beso tierno en la mejilla. Al sentir mi contacto, Liam volvió a mirarme, su rostro iluminado por una sonrisa radiante || Riley, si en este instante solo estuviéramos tú y yo, te robaría todos los besos posibles, sin importar lo que dijeran los demás. Es una pena que no estemos solos. || Su voz estaba cargada de emoción y admiración.

|| ¿Qué te parece si dejamos eso para otro momento? || Le respondí, con una sonrisa traviesa y una mirada llena de complicidad.

|| Seguro que sí. Estaré esperando ese momento con ansias. || Contestó, sus ojos brillando con promesas no dichas.

Mientras Liam regresaba al grupo, una mezcla de esperanza y ansiedad se apoderaba de mí. Los desafíos y decisiones cruciales parecían más manejables con él a mi lado, y nuestra conexión era un faro de luz en medio de la incertidumbre. Observando a Liam y a los demás, el sonido de las risas y el crujido de las hojas creaban un telón de fondo sereno. Me uní a la diversión, sintiendo que cada risa y sonrisa me acercaban a resolver nuestros problemas. Mientras disfrutaba del esplendor del lugar y la compañía de quienes me importaban, me preparaba mentalmente para los desafíos venideros, decidida a enfrentarlos con la misma fuerza que hallé en este momento. El sol se ponía, tiñendo el cielo de tonos cálidos, mientras me preguntaba qué sorpresas nos esperaban.

@tessa-liam, @kingliam2019, @choicesficwriterscreations

If anyone else wants to be tagged, just let me know. I hope you enjoy this wonderful love adventure.

[kristinamae093]

Ghosted

Ghosted- A Plan (Chapter 2)

Series Summary - Prince Liam fell for Riley Brooks hard and fast. A marriage filled with love and devotion was within his reach. But everything changed when she vanished just before the end of the social season. As everyone voices their concerns regarding her scandalous departure, a confession from an unlikely source turns Liam's world upside down and makes him question everything around him.

Book/Pairing - TRR- Liam x MC (Riley Brooks), hints of Liam x Madeleine

A/N1: This AU starts right before the beginning of the engagement tour. There is a two-month lapse between the coronation and where we pick up, but we will stray from canon.

A/N2: Please excuse all errors, I'm posting as I leave for work. No Liam this chapter, but I promise next is ALL Liam.

Characters belong to Pixelberry.

Soft music filled the ballroom of the Beaumont estate. White tablecloths adorned every table, all complete with centerpieces of white and navy flowers. Servants bustled through the room clearing tables from the dinner that had just concluded, and rounded the room with Ramsford’s own sparkling wine. Nobles circulated and chatted while they waited for the proper party to begin. 

The air filled with tension only a select few could feel. 

Maxwell sat at the head table alone and watched the crowd. This was the point in the evening he would usually become a one man dancing machine, but Maxwell didn’t feel like dancing.

Since Riley disappeared, Maxwell was completely desolate. He felt like he had lost his sister, his best friend. He couldn’t fathom why she would do this. Her departure had come at such a random time, completely out of the blue; nothing about it made sense. She seemed happy. She talked like she was genuinely excited about the future. There was never any sign she regretted her decision to come to Cordonia or wished to return home. His mind’s questions had to be pushed aside, however, as they had to continue forward with the social season. 

As they left Applewood for their own estate, Bertrand’s sadness cleared, and an all-consuming cloud of anger, regret, and panic engulfed him; the realization that they were truly doomed dawned on him. With no suitor, they would face scrutiny and mockery; it was inevitable. The press would surely catch wind of their tanked finances, and now there was no end in sight.

Bertrand was incredibly upset with himself for allowing their reputation to be put in such a situation. But, he found the most fault to ultimately lie with Maxwell, for making such an irrational decision to begin with. He had only been a fool and went along with his ridiculous suggestion. 

When they arrived and found that their cleaning crew had canceled, they had to scramble to get their estate in order for their upcoming doomsday. Drake stayed behind in Applewood with Liam, and nobody else could know their situation; there was no one to call. So Bertrand and Maxwell had to roll up their sleeves and scrub the entire structure from top to bottom. They worked all day and all night; even then, Bertrand still nit-picked the job they had done. 

Bertrand had spent the entire time scolding Maxwell and continuously telling him he was at fault for their predicament. He lashed out and berated an already devastated Maxwell, but in his panicked stupor, Bertrand did not care one bit. Deep down he knew Maxwell did nothing wrong, but any rationality he had left him.

As Maxwell looked throughout the room, he spotted Liam in the corner with Drake, but twisted his gaze elsewhere. He figured if anyone had a right to be mad at him, it was Liam. He knew the turmoil he was experiencing, and couldn’t even imagine what Liam must have felt. Liam’s heartbroken face after he read her note permanently engraved itself in his mind, as well as the animalistic cry that escaped him soon after.

Maxwell had sat across from Liam at dinner, but avoided eye contact. The two didn’t speak; in fact, nobody really spoke. Regina asked about Riley’s whereabouts, but Bertrand quickly steered the conversation elsewhere. The King and Queen were the only two at the table who had even finished their meals; everyone else opted to pay more attention to the wine.  

Maxwell was pulled from his daze by Bertrand, as he tapped on his glass to get the room’s attention. “If everyone would please enter the reception hall, we will proceed with the festivities.” He stated, very matter-of-factly. 

Maxwell continued to sit in his seat and ignored Bertrand’s request. He knew it was time for their infamous toast, and his anxiety heightened the more he thought about it. Everyone expected to see three Beaumonts, and he didn’t know how Bertrand planned to spin things. 

Maxwell caught movement out of the corner of his eye and turned to see Bertrand as he stomped towards him. He let out a breath and prepared himself for the tongue lashing he was about to receive. 

“Maxwell! Get up! You have a toast to make!” Bertrand ordered.

Maxwell’s eyes widened. “What? Me? B-but… we’re supposed to do this together!” he stammered.

Bertrand scoffed, “Absolutely not! All night, I’ve had to avoid questions regarding Lady Riley’s whereabouts. Since this is your fault, you will set the record straight.”

“But-”

“But nothing! I will not take fault for the situation we’re in due to your poor choices! It’s time you owned up to your irresponsibilities! Our entire lives, I have continuously bent over backwards to fix the things that you’ve broken, but no more.” Bertrand shook his head. “I still can not believe this is happening! What would father say, Maxwell?!”

“Well, he pr-”

“He would disown you! Our reputation, our finances, it’s as good as gone! All of it! There is no solution! No one will want to do business with us! We’ll be lucky if we can stay afloat until Christmas!”

“I’m sorry, Bertrand! I didn’t mean to-”

Bertrand laughed sardonically. “Sorry won’t save you this time. You’re going to have to take responsibility for what you’ve done and deal with the repercussions. The Beaumont name will be tainted forever, but I will not allow you to bring me down with you. You, and you alone, will take responsibility for this monstrosity you've created.”

“Bertrand please! I didn’t do anything! I swear! I-I’m just as shocked as you are!” Maxwell pleaded. 

“This is not a discussion! I am telling you what is going to happen, whether you agree or not. You can continue to sit here and cry about it, or you can get up and be a man for once in your life, and take accountability for your careless decisions.” 

Maxwell continued to sit and stare wide eyed at Bertrand, as his last statement cut through his heart like a knife. He physically felt his entire soul hit the very pits of his stomach, and shatter even further. He wanted to believe Bertrand didn’t mean any of the crude things he had been saying, but the glare Bertrand gave said otherwise. Bertrand looked completely disgusted, enraged, and disappointed in Maxwell; all because he took a chance on a quirky American who had captured the heart of one of his dearest friends. 

“MAXWELL. NOW.” Bertrand boomed.

Maxwell stood from his seat and looked at Bertrand with a broken expression. “Bertrand, please… Can’t we-”

Bertrand took a step further to stand in Maxwell’s personal space and growled, “No. NO. Get this ‘we’ notion out of your head this instant! You, and you alone, will take responsibility for this; do you understand?” 

Maxwell held his intense gaze for a few brief moments before he finally relented and slightly nodded his head. He could give no other response, as his throat had constricted. He turned and made his way to the reception hall. Maxwell could feel his heart thump rapidly in his chest, as well as the wine from dinner doing somersaults in his abdomen. His hands trembled at his sides, and he felt incredibly dizzy as he slowly made his way to his destination. 

As Maxwell approached the stairs, he stopped and looked back at Bertrand, who had followed closely behind him. Maxwell gave him a look of disdain, but Bertrand gave him a stern nod of the head and ignored Maxwell’s silent plea. 

Maxwell reluctantly turned back around and trudged up the staircase. At halfway, he turned around to address the crowd. 

“H-Hello everyone… Um… So… First off, I’d like to thank you all for coming. We really appreciate you being here.” He stopped to look at Bertrand, who shook his head. “I mean, I really appreciate you being here…” he trailed off.  

Maxwell looked out into the crowd and squinted his eyes to blind his vision from the rays of chandelier lights on his face. As his eyesight re-centered, he saw every gaze in the room intently directed at him. He ran a visibly shaky hand through his hair, and attempted to continue, “Uh … Y-You’re probably wondering where Lady Riley is… And um, well… “ he tucked his chin down to his chest before he quietly and quickly spit out, “she left.”

Maxwell heard a throat clear and looked up to meet Bertrand’s steely gaze. Maxwell looked at him with sad eyes, silently begging Bertrand to end this nightmare. He held his gaze for what felt like a lifetime before Bertrand once again nodded his head in a silent order for him to continue. 

Maxwell tried to swallow the prominent lump in his throat, but it would not budge. He shuffled his feet for a moment before he cleared his throat, and abruptly and loudly blurted out, “Lady Riley is no longer in the social season.” 

Gasps and whispers filled the room. Everyone turned their heads to the person next to them to confirm they had heard him correctly. It was completely unprecedented for a house to lose their suitor, especially so close to the finish of the season. Rumors immediately started regarding why they had lost their suitor, and at such a crucial moment in time. 

Maxwell gulped, and at another stern nod from Bertrand continued. “I’d like to take this opportunity formally to accept responsibility for this……oversight. My brother trusted me to make a wise decision, and I-I failed… I failed him, I failed our country, and I failed myself…”

Drake arrived at the bar shortly later. He exited his truck and leaned up against it as he waited for Olivia’s SUV to arrive. He had tried to get Olivia to ride with him, but Olivia said she ‘would rather enter the pits of hell barefoot’ than get into his truck with him. 

As the SUV that carried Olivia pulled up, Drake crossed the parking lot to meet her as she exited the vehicle. He followed behind her as the two approached the doors. 

Upon entering the establishment, Olivia scrunched her nose. “What is that smell?”

“A bar?”

“It smells like… you… Ugh... It’s repulsive.” Olivia shuddered.

Drake stopped dead in his tracks and turned to face her. “Can you not be a bitch for ten seconds?”

Olivia stopped as well. “Sure, when you can refrain from being a neanderthal for three.” she retorted with a smirk as she kept her gaze straight in front of her. 

Drake sighed and ran a hand down his face. “This is gonna be a long night…”

A bark of laughter escaped Olivia. “HA! You’re telling me!”

Drake put his hands up in surrender. “Look, I don’t like you. You don’t like me. That’s fine. But we have a common goal here. For the sake of whatever is going on, we need a truce.” 

“Not a chance.”

“Olivia.” Drake growled. 

Olivia let out a huff before she relented. “Fine. Until we figure out this maze of an ordeal, I suppose we can have a truce.”

The two shared an intense glare before Drake extended his hand for a handshake. Olivia glanced at it momentarily before she caved and lightly returned the gesture.

As she released Drake’s hand, Olivia promptly reached into her bag and pulled out a small container of hand sanitizer. She squeezed a generous amount onto the hand Drake had just shook and rubbed her palms together. 

“Seriously?!“

��What? I don’t know where your hands have been.” Olivia retorted with another shudder. She put her head up and walked further into the crowded bar. 

Drake shook his head and muttered a few obscenities under his breath, but followed her path. He scanned the crowd and noticed Maxwell sitting at a secluded table in the corner. He wore a hat and sunglasses, but was anything but subtle. The hat he wore was bright blue, with what looked to be peacock feathers etched in the design.

Drake pointed out Maxwell to Olivia, who rolled her eyes at his ensemble; the two of them made their way over to Maxwell.

As Drake approached the table, he asked, “Maxwell, what the hell are you wearing?”

“A disguise! Duh!”

“Yeah, I get what you were going for. But for the record, dark colors help hide you better.”

“This is the only hat I have!” Maxwell said as he quickly pulled the cap from his head. He tucked it into the seat next to him and took his sunglasses off before he looked back up at Drake. “It’s been a long time, Buddy! I’m so glad to see you!”

“Don’t call me Buddy.”

“But it’s been so long! Cuuummmmmmoooooon Drake, you know you missed me!” Maxwell sang at him. 

“Don’t push it.” Drake grumbled. He took a seat at the table next to Maxwell, which then revealed Olivia as she stood behind him.  

Maxwell gasped and grabbed Drake by the arm. “Drake, are you alright?! Are you sick? Do you have a fever?!” He tried to put his hand on Drake’s forehead, but Drake quickly slapped his hand away.

“I wish…”

“Ha. Ha.” Olivia said as she rolled her eyes and took the seat across from Maxwell.

Drake turned to Maxwell. “So, how are you? And yes, it has been a long time, but you still can’t call me Buddy.”

Maxwell sighed as his peppy demeanor faded, and an air of melancholy overcame his entire being. “I mean, I’ve spent the last two months hiding from the world in spreadsheets and graphs, so…”

“Why do you think you need to hide, Max? What happened wasn’t your fault!”

“Isn’t it, though? I’m the one who invited her here…” Maxwell trailed off as he picked at his napkin on the table in front of him. 

“But you are not responsible for what happened!”

“Try telling that to Bertrand…”

“He still bad?”

Maxwell cringed before responding in a quiet voice. “Yeah… I don’t think we’ll ever be the way we were before. Even with the scandal, he still blames me... Except then it changed to ‘you brought an American harlot here to represent House Beaumont'." He looked down and shook his head. “He’s told me multiple times he doesn’t want me trying to help him salvage our house’s finances. It’s only so I stay in his sight, and don’t ruin our reputation further…” He cleared his throat and looked away.

House Beaumont had been in a tumultuous time, to say the least. Rumors spread immediately regarding their suitor’s sudden departure, each with their own theory as to why. Before they were given a chance to issue a formal statement, Ana De Luca ran her story about their broken financial situation and tied the two together. That rumor ran through the mill until the Coronation, when the new conclusion for Riley’s departure came to light. But the damage had already been done to House Beaumont.

Deals started falling through and donors retracted donations. Nobody wanted to be associated with the sullied brothers; the ones who had sponsored the disgraced suitor to begin with. Stories would still occasionally run, and they were always regarding their continuous downward spiral. They had enough secured transactions to stay afloat this long, but found themselves quickly drowning in a sea of ‘no’s and denial.

Bertrand continued to berate and blame Maxwell, but Maxwell never said a word, nor challenged him; because he truly believed what he was saying to be true. He placed all blame on himself, and could only take his scoldings for his error in judgement like the ‘man’ he thought he needed to be. Maxwell had given up hope a long time ago that Bertrand would forgive him, instead he just did whatever was requested of him without hesitation or question. He did the best he could, but Bertrand always found an issue with the work Maxwell would present. 

“Damn, I’m sorry, man….” Drake responded and gave him a pat on the back, unsure of what else to say.

Maxwell shook his head in acknowledgement before an awkward silence overtook the group. Olivia sat and eyed the patrons critically and questioned why she even agreed to come. Drake took a menu and browsed the drink selection to decide what to order. Maxwell sat and stole quick glances between Olivia and Drake as he tried to decipher why the two of them had arrived together. 

“So……” Maxwell started, attempting to break the silence.

“Something to say, Beaumont?” Olivia quipped.

“Well… I was just kind of wondering why you’re here. This definitely doesn’t seem like it’s your style.”

Olivia laughed. “It’s not. Unfortunately, we have business to conduct.”

Maxwell’s eyes grew wide. “Um… We? Like… with me?”

“Yes, you. But before we begin, I need you to understand that this is a delicate situation, and your utmost discretion is necessary. Can you agree to that?”

“Yes?” Maxwell responded with uncertainty. 

Olivia glared daggers at Maxwell. He sat up straighter and cleared his throat. “I mean, yes. Of course. How may I be of service, Duchess?”

Olivia rolled her eyes, but quietly told Maxwell about everything that she knew and her suspicions, but didn’t show him the pictures due to the capacity in the bar. Maxwell sat and listened intently to every word she said. He hung on every word she said, trying his hardest to process and keep up. 

When Olivia finished, Maxwell sat and stared into his drink for a long while. Long enough that Drake grew worried. 

“Uh, Max?” Drake asked as he tapped his arm to get his attention.

“I knew it,” Maxwell whispered as he wiped a tear from his eye, “I didn’t know what happened exactly, but I knew something wasn’t right…” he trailed off and shook his head. 

“I know, man. I kinda think we all did. But nobody had anything to back it up…” Drake ran a hand through his hair and fixed his gaze on the table in front of him.

Both men let a wave of guilt wash over them for not acting sooner. Drake and Maxwell each had their doubts with the country, and Liam’s conclusion that Riley had run off to be with Tariq. But Drake knew that with Liam as enraged as he was, bringing up the idea could have gotten him exiled, especially with no proof. 

Maxwell was put to work under Bertrand’s watchful eye, cut off from the outside world. He spent every moment he was awake with Bertrand. The only reason he managed to escape for a night was because Bertrand had a meeting and left the estate. He wouldn’t dare utter a word about his suspicions to Bertrand, as he probably wouldn’t have listened to him, even if Maxwell had said something.

Olivia sat and watched both men get lost in their thoughts. She let them wallow for only a minute or two, before she slammed her palm down on the table; causing Drake to nearly flip over in his chair, and Maxwell to almost knock his drink off the table. 

“What the hell, Olivia?!” Drake shouted.

“You two have to stop sulking! What’s happened, happened. There is nothing we can do to change that. We can, however, try to get some answers for everyone involved.” 

Olivia placed her hands on the table in front of her before she continued. “Now, Beaumont. You were the last person to physically see Riley in Cordonia, that we know of. Does anything stand out from your last conversation with her?”

Maxwell shook his head. “No. Not at all. She said she was tired and was going to head to bed. She even said she would see me in the morning!”

“Do you recall what time that was?” 

“Not really. I know it was shortly after the toasts concluded, though.”

Drake’s eyes widened. “Seriously?! That was super early! I stayed down there for at least another hour, possibly two!“ 

“Was it? I didn’t think much of it. We had been traveling for days on end and any second of down time she had was spent being lectured by Bertrand.” Maxwell responded with a shrug. 

“That would make her one of the first to retire. If she had already packed, she could have easily made an escape in that time frame. Especially with everyone else still at the party downstairs.��� Olivia interjected. 

Maxwell shook his head. “Her stuff wasn’t packed, not before the party anyway. I know that for a fact. I was with her before the Jamboree started while she got dressed and what not.”

Drake’s mind started running overtime. He knew he did not hear Riley at all that night. Drake had found her gone at the same time as Liam and Maxwell. He started pondering about her retiring early. If she moved fast enough, she could have packed and left before he had made it back to his room for the night. 

But would she do that?  

Olivia sighed, “Well, I’m not sure if that will be relevant, but it is worth noting.”

“We gotta take all this to Liam!” Maxwell exclaimed. 

“That’s where I started. He doesn’t think the pictures are enough proof, and her retiring early doesn’t prove much at this point either.”

“How?! I haven’t even seen the pictures, but I believe you!”

Drake answered. “I saw it in his eyes when Olivia showed ‘em to us. I know he’s thinking about it. But he’s hurt and has been since she left. He’s channeling all that humiliation and sadness into anger. And a part of me thinks he doesn’t want to admit he was wrong and didn’t jump on investigating sooner.” 

“I’d agree that would be a safe assumption. We have to find more evidence to prove to him that something did happen that night.” Olivia responded with a determined expression.

“But what do we do? Where do we even start? It’s been two months, Olivia! I want to believe that there’s something out there, but what if we’re just chasing a dead end?” Maxwell asked as he dejectedly looked into his drink.

“To start, we need to locate Tariq. I did some searching, and it seems there’s no trace of him. The last time he was seen was at the Country Jamboree.” 

“How do we do that?” Drake asked. 

“I’ll look into it. Thus far, I haven't had any luck. But, I have a contact in intelligence. Maybe I can work out a deal for Tariq’s location.” 

“What about Riley?” Maxwell asked quietly, with his gaze still fixated on his drink. 

“We will get to that. But if what Liam said was correct, Bastien already couldn’t locate her. So we may have easier luck getting to Tariq and making him talk first.”          

“What can we do in the meantime? While you try to find him?” Drake asked.

“Since the engagement tour is starting in a couple of days, we can use that as a cover for our investigation. I take it we will all be in attendance?”

“Yep.”

“I mean yeah, but… I don’t know how much help I can be... Bertrand has already made it very clear that the only reason I’m being allowed to go with him is because the invitation was formally addressed to Bertrand and Maxwell Beaumont.”

“That’s fine. We need to bide our time for the first couple of events until the court reaches Applewood. I’m not sure what we can find, given how much time has passed, but we at least need to rule it out. We must investigate any and every lead, no matter how small, and that was the last place either of them was seen in Cordonia.” 

“I agree. I’ll see if I can get Liam to tell me where they put her phone.” Drake suggested. 

Olivia raised her brows in surprise. “Wow. Good thinking, Walker. Maybe this won’t be as horrendous as I feared.” 

“You’re not the only smart one here, thank you very much.” Drake scoffed.

“Looks can be deceiving, I suppose,” Olivia smirked. 

“I always wondered about that. Why did she leave her phone? What was the purpose of that? Wouldn’t she need it?” Maxwell asked. 

“You’re right. That’s just the start of things that don’t add up, of the things Liam’s turning a blind eye to.” 

Drake nodded. “We gotta get past this wall he’s built up. I know he doesn’t believe that shit for a second.” 

Olivia laughed. “Trust me, Walker. It won’t take much. He can try all he wants, but I am better than him at his own game. I can read right through him. In his heart, he knows the truth. He’s only denying because he feels like he has to.” 

“But why? Why does he have to? He loves her! He shouldn’t be fighting us on this!” Maxwell exclaimed. 

“I know. He shouldn’t be, but he’s been through a lot. He thinks he’s protecting himself. But we will make him see the truth.” Olivia replied with utmost confidence. 

Drake gave her a determined look. “Yeah, we will. You know what? I’m gonna go see him, invite him to Applewood with us. I’ll give it my best shot and hopefully make him see reason.” He turned to Maxwell. “You can come too. Maybe if we leave the intimidating red dragon at home, he’ll actually listen.”

“Awwwww, you think I’m intimidating, Walker? How sweet of you.”

Drake ignored Olivia as he awaited Maxwell’s answer. “I… Uh… I guess I could go…” Maxwell responded in an unsure tone. 

Drake patted Maxwell on the back. “Relax. It’ll be fine. Ain’t nothin’ to worry ‘bout.”

“... Okay, but... promise me if we decide to form an official alliance, we will be the Cordonian Power Rangers, and I get to be the blue one.” Maxwell stated with a completely firm expression. He held it for only a few moments before a small smile crept across his face.

Drake and Olivia both rolled their eyes, but Drake subtly grinned. It was nice to see bits of the old Maxwell poke through, despite everything he had been through.

Drake retrieved his forgotten menu, and finally selected a seasonal skull cracker ale; the regular skull cracker, but with a slight spice flavor added. He put his menu back in the holder before he turned his attention to Olivia. “You gonna order something?”

Olivia rose from the table and scoffed, “God no. My business here is done. I suppose I’ll see you two on the engagement tour.”

Tags (If you'd like to be added or removed, please let me know): @choicesficwriterscreationstions @ao719 @txemrn @imashybish @emkay512 @queenrileyrose @kingliam2019 @riseandshinelittleblossom @dcbbw @tessa-liam @twinkleallnight @amandablink @cordonia-gothqueen @sfb123 @jared2612 @harleybeaumont @bebepac @charlotteg234 @aussiegurl1234 @busywoman @malblk21 @angelasscribbles @bascmve01  

[angelasscribbles]

Unexpected Chapter 11: Let's Be Happy

Series: Unexpected

Fandom: The Royal Romance

Pairings: Riley x Maxwell, Riley x Liam

Rating: MA

Warnings: None for this chapter

Word Count: 2,919

My other stuff: Master List.

Riley folded clothes and placed them into a suitcase as her mind ran through last night’s events.

Everything was out in the open now. Max had always known about Liam, of course. But now Liam knew about Max as well.

The reveal had gone far better than she would have imagined. She wouldn’t go so far as to say Liam hadn’t cared. He had been a little hurt, a little angry, a little jealous even. But by the night’s end, they had been on the same page.

She would stay in Cordonia. She would continue her relationship with him. He would marry someone else. She would be free to continue her relationship with Max.

Bertrand was going to be livid. She did not doubt that he would make good on his promise to withdraw House Beaumont’s support, both publicly and financially. He’d likely cut Max off as well.

Liam had brushed her concerns about the future aside, telling her not to worry, he’d handle it. For now, she would keep her room at the palace. She would attend the engagement tour and before they left, she would move into a new suite of rooms in the royal family’s wing.

She wasn’t crazy about not having a solid plan for the long term and she was even less thrilled about living in a room right down the hall from Liam’s wife, especially if that wife turned out to be Madeleine.

Liam had assured her he had no intention of marrying the countess, but Riley wasn’t sure that Kiara or Penelope would treat her much better.

There was a knock and Riley crossed the room to open the door for Hana. She pulled her inside and enveloped her in a hug. “I’m so happy to see you!”

Hana returned Riley’s embrace with a laugh. “I’m always happy to see you. But why, specifically?”

“I have a lot to tell you, but you first!” Riley released her and returned to folding clothes to place in her luggage. “I am dying to know what you were talking about last night. What did you mean when you said you weren’t sure you still wanted to marry the prince?”

Hana sat on the edge of the bed and stared down at her hands. “I don’t want to marry Liam. I mean, I did, when I first got here. In addition to making my parents happy and being able to put my considerable skills to good use as queen, he is hot as hell.”

“Right?” Riley laughed in agreement. “I didn’t hear a downside in there!”

Hana looked up with heated cheeks. “What about you?”

“What about me what?”

“If he chooses you, will you say yes?”

“Oh, he’s not going to choose me.”

“You can’t be sure of that.”

“I can. We discussed it last night.”

Hana couldn’t hide the astonishment that crashed through her. “I knew you were close, but I didn’t realize he was confiding in you about such things. And if you’re that close, then why wouldn’t he—”

Riley dropped the blouse she was folding and grabbed Hana’s hands. “I’ll tell you everything, but not until you tell me why you don’t want to marry Liam. You would be a great queen.”

An idea seized hold of her. Hana would be a great queen. And she wasn’t a bitch.

Hana screwed her courage up, determined to say what she had come to say. The next time she would see Riley would be at the Beaumont Bash, an event sure to keep her too busy with hostessing duties to find a moment alone for a conversation. Then after that, the Coronation Ball.

It was now or never.

She drew in a deep breath and blurted out, “I can’t marry Liam because I’m in love with you!”

***

Drake lifted his hand to knock just as the door to Liam’s office opened and the prince’s personal lawyer stepped out. “Rashad, I didn’t realize you were here today.”

“Last minute meeting,” He explained as he nodded at the other man, “Nice to see you. I’m on my way out.”

“Nice to see you, too. Hello and goodbye.” Drake chuckled as he entered the office and closed the door behind him. He took in his best friend’s demeanor. “Wow. You look downright chipper this morning.”

Liam grinned at him from his place behind the highly polished mahogany desk. “Oh, I am! I spoke to Riley last night and I think I have everything figured out, Drake.”

Drake suppressed a long-suffering sigh. “I thought we settled this. You can’t marry her—”

“Oh, I’m not. I can’t. You were right about that. And she doesn’t want to be queen, anyway.”

Drake had been reaching for a donut on the service cart. His hand froze midway as he did a double take. “What now?”

“She doesn’t want it, Drake. Can you imagine? A woman who doesn’t even want the damn crown!”

“And you’re happy about that? Because yesterday you were still trying to find a way to marry her.”

“I realized I can’t marry her. You were right about her and Max.”

Drake poured a cup of coffee to go with the donut and sat down across the desk from Liam. “I’m very confused. She doesn’t want to marry you, and she’s fucking Beaumont. Why are you happy?”

“Because my overstepping, interfering stepmother is right about one thing.”

“What’s that?”

“Queen is a job title. One that Riley is neither prepared nor suited for.”

“Okay….”

Liam leaned forward with excitement. “I thought I needed her to marry me to be happy, but I don’t!”

Drake lifted an eyebrow skeptically. “You don’t?”

“No. I don’t. I just need her in my life, and she’s agreed to it. I’m determined to make this work. My marriage will be in name only.”

“But….she’s still sleeping with Max, right? You’ll never be able to reign her in. That girl is a wild card.”

Liam leaned back in his chair with a grin. “Perhaps I like that about her. She just follows her heart and does whatever the hell she wants. What freedom that must be.”

“That’s one way to look at it.”

“Yes. But also look at it this way. I’ll always know she’s choosing to be with me because she wants to, not because she has to.”

“How do you figure?”

“You know I’ve always had issues with women wanting the crown more so than me.”

“Yes…”

“She doesn’t want it and she won’t have it. There will be no marriage contract to bind her to me. Every moment we spend together will be because she wants me. Liam, the man. Not the king, not the crown.”

“I think you’re forgetting one very important thing.”

“What’s that?”

“Your money. She may not want the responsibilities of the crown, but how can you ever be sure she isn’t just enamored of your wealth?”

“Ah. I have a solution for that as well. That’s why Rashad was here.”

“I don’t follow.”

Liam pushed a folder across the desktop.

Drake flipped through it and whistled. “Wow. You really have thought of everything.”

 “I know.” Liam gave him a self-satisfied smirk as he rose from the desk. “Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have to go pack.”

Drake’s head snapped up. “Pack? Why? We don’t leave for Ramsford until tomorrow.”

“Court doesn’t. Riley and the Beaumonts are leaving this morning. I plan to surprise her there.”

“At Ramsford? Where she’ll be with Max?”

“I can handle Max,” Liam assured him with a scowl. “It’s Bertrand I’m worried about.”

“Bertrand?” Drake sat up straighter, “Explain.”

Liam quickly filled him in on what Riley and Max had confided to him before heading to the royal quarters to pack.

***

Thirty minutes after arriving at Ramsford, Liam was alone with Riley. Bertrand had been thrilled to provide them with a private sitting room and shoo all the servants away from the area.

Riley’s eyes flicked back and forth from the paperwork in her hands to the man standing in front of her.

Liam was vibrating with excitement as he waited for her reaction.

She shifted through the documents in confusion. “I don’t understand. You’re giving me Valtoria?”

His grin broadened. “Yes!”

Her brows drew together. “What is it?”

“It’s a duchy.”

“Wait. You can just give someone a duchy?”

“Yes, of course.”

“Yes, of course?” She scoffed, “This is brand new information to me, Liam!”

“You’ll be a duchess, complete with full Cordonian citizenship and voting rights in the House of Lords.”

“I’ll be a duchess….”

“Yes, with everything that entails. Lands, titles, bank accounts—”

Her head jerked up as her eyes flew from the document she was holding to his face. “Bank accounts?”

“Naturally. You don’t need Bertrand’s money and you won’t be beholden to him or anyone else for anything from here on out.”

“Liam, this…this is incredibly generous, but I don’t know anything about running a duchy!”

“You don’t have to run it, Riley. You can appoint a prime minister to do all the work.”

“And I’ll keep this as long as I’m your mistress?”

“You’ll keep it, regardless. I have signed and filed all the paperwork, Riley. It’s yours with no strings attached.”

Her mouth fell open in disbelief. “Why would you do this?”

“Why?” He took her hand in his. “Because it would kill me if I ever thought you were sleeping with me out of some sort of obligation or because you felt backed into a corner financially. And because I love you. If you cut me out of your life tomorrow, I can live in peace knowing that you’re taken care of.”

“Liam…”

“I’m sorry I can’t marry you, Riley. But your future is secure, with or without me in it, so would you please stop worrying about that?”

She threw herself into his arms.

After several moments filled with laughter, tears, and lots of kissing, she pulled away from him. “This is the most amazing thing anyone has ever done for me, Liam. I love it and I love you. I feel selfish for asking, but there is one more thing I’d like to ask of you.”

“I’m gratified that you’re so happy. It gives me great satisfaction to please you. If there’s something else I can do, please tell me.”

“I want you to marry Hana.”

***

The moment the guests arrived, Liam pulled Hana aside for a confidential chat. Then he spoke privately to his father.

“I had hoped you’d choose Countess Madeleine.”

“And I had my heart set on marrying Lady Riley.”

“The council—”

“Won’t approve her. And neither will you. I know. Lady Hana isn’t your first choice, nor is she mine, but she’s an excellent compromise. She has the correct background and education. She’s poised, talented, charming, and beautiful. She should have no trouble securing council approval.”

Constantine laughed with relief, proud to see his son making logical compromises. He had been worried Liam was going to be intransigent about marrying the waitress. The lady from Shanghai was indeed an excellent choice. Regina wouldn’t be happy, but he could handle his wife. Clapping his son on the back, the king assured him, “I’ll have them get the approval pushed through by tomorrow.”

***

The Beaumont Bash went off without a hitch. The overnight guests were served a late brunch the next day. Liam insisted Riley return to the palace with him.

“Surely you don’t need her for the cleanup? You have staff for that, right?”

Bertrand nodded his agreement with glee. “Yes. It’s fine. Go. Go.”

Liam pushed away from the table and held his hand out to her. “Come, Riley. I’ll walk you to your room. Max, would you please join us?”

Max looked up from his plate in surprise. His eyes flicked to Bertrand, who was shooting daggers at him, then back to Liam. “Um…yes, sure.”

Liam ushered them into Riley’s bedroom and closed the door before turning to face them. “Take anything you care about. You too, Max. The day after tomorrow Bertrand will realize that his plan has failed. I want you both out of his reach. The worst he can do is withdraw his support of Riley and disinherit you. It won’t matter. As I’m sure she’s shared with you by now, Riley is a duchess in her own right. Regardless, you’re both welcome to stay at the palace for as long as you want.”

“With pleasure!” Riley was already pulling her suitcase out.

Max watched Liam’s face closely. “I understand why you’re helping her. But why are you helping me?”

“It’s the same answer. You’re important to her, she’s important to me. I hope you prove worthy of it. Now go pack. We’re leaving in an hour.”

***

It was coronation night, and everything was in place. Liam hummed happily as he stepped out of the bathroom into the small but elegant sitting room just down the hall from the grand ballroom to find Madeleine waiting for him. His jaw clenched in annoyance. “What are you doing in here? This is a private room.” He was going to have a very stern talk with his head of security.

“We need to talk.”

“What could we possibly have to discuss?”

“Our engagement.”

Liam tipped his head back with a sigh. “We are not engaged, Countess.”

“But we should be. I know you’re in love with…” she grimaced, liked the words burned in her mouth, “…the American. But arrangements can be made for that…”

“I’m aware of what I can and can’t do!” He turned his back on her and headed for the door.

She lunged after him, grabbing his sleeve and jerking him back toward her. “What other woman is going to offer you the freedom to—”

“Any of them!” He jerked his arm free. “Do you imagine I’m going to enter into a marriage contract without a Cordonian Arrangement codicil? Looking the other way while your spouse has dalliances is politically arranged marriages 101, Madeleine. You should know this.” Liam shook his head. “I’m disappointed, honestly. For all the talk of your political acumen, you have very little.”

“I have what it takes to be queen, Liam, and you know it!”

“No, you don’t. You’re not fit to rule. You paint yourself as regal, but you’re not, you’re just plain mean. You intend to rule through fear and intimidation based not even on any power of your own, but on mine. The fact that you don’t realize you have no power is pathetically evident in the way you’re behaving right now, as if you’re holding all the cards in this dynamic.”

“I’m simply trying to look out for you, Liam. The monarchy needs to be strong, you—”

“You think you’re the best choice for Cordonia?”

“Yes, of course! It’s my duty—”

“You don’t care about duty. You like lording your position over the other ladies of the court. Do you think I don’t see that?”

The countess straightened her shoulders indignantly. “That’s not true! I am committed to serving my country!”

He adjusted a cufflink as he gave her a considering look. “Do you wish to be queen, Madeleine?”

“You know I do!”

He stepped into her personal space. “How much?”

“What?”

He took her arm and pulled her closer. He lowered his head so that his lips were just inches from hers. “Will you fulfill your wifely duties?”

She flinched, but she didn’t pull away. “Of course. We must produce heirs—”

He ran a finger down her cheek, then down her bare arm. “And you’ll look the other way while I take whatever lovers I so desire?”

“I’ve already agreed to this! What—”

His fingers dug into her arm deeper. “Will you be nice to the other ladies of my court? Stop being a bitch to the servants?”

“I…I suppose I could be a little…softer…”

“I don’t like your father. Are you willing to cut him out of your life?”

She hesitated for a scant moment and then whispered softly, “Yes, I’ll do it.”

He shoved her away with a laugh. “See? No power. Stop acting like you have anything to bargain with.” His eyes ran down her body, “Other than your physical attributes. But every other lady here has those as well. What else do you have to offer? You are not smarter than Kiara, you are not more cultured than Hana, you are not more charming than Penelope and you’re sure as hell not Riley.”

A primal roar broke out of the usually composed blond. “You can’t marry her! The nobility will turn on you. You—”

“I never said I was going to marry her.”

“But….the matching outfits at the Beaumont Bash….the diamond and sapphire necklace around her neck that she obviously can’t afford….the two of you sneaking off into the hedge maze…”

“I’m sleeping with her. I love her. But I’m not foolish enough to marry her.”

“Then who—”

“You’ll find out when everyone else does.” He pulled the door open and then paused. Looking over his shoulder, his voice dropped low and menacing. “Oh, and Madeleine? If I find out you were involved in the attempted sabotage of Lady Riley or Duchess Olivia, I will make sure you pay for it.”

Madeleine stiffened slightly as her eyes widened. Then she sniffed indifferently. “I have no idea what you’re talking about.”

“For your sake, I hope that’s true.” He left without another look back.

[alj4890masterlist]

30 various Choices drabbles all centered around kiss prompts. *Updated list of kiss prompts and pairings*

Evidence (Thomas Hunt x OC)

The Green-Eyed Monster (Ethan Ramsey x OC)

The Statement (Jackson Nevrakis-Walker x Nicky Beaumont)

Escaping for a Moment (Ernest Sinclaire x MC)

Silence (Drake Walker x Olivia Nevrakis)

The Sleeping Bag (Aislinn Tanaka x M!MC) *NSFW*

The Truth Comes Out (Hugh Crawford x MC)

The Apology (Ethan Ramsey x OC)

On Impulse (Maxwell Beaumont x OC)

Making It Believable (Prince Emerick Rhys x Juliet Nevrakis-Walker)

It's Over (Leo x Madeleine)

Over the Top (Tobias Carrick x F!MC)

In Times of Comfort (Thomas Hunt x OC)

To Make It Better (Tom Sato x F!MC)

Just Try (Liam x Madeleine)

Slipping Away Together (Thomas Hunt x OC)

So This is Goodbye? (Jax Matsuo x MC)

Visceral Reaction (Tobias Carrick x F!MC)

From the Heart (Ethan Ramsey x OC)

Anytime, Anywhere (Liam x MC)

Just You and Me (Prince Ellis Rhys x Emily Beaumont)

Snap (Bertrand Beaumont x MC)

Sparks of Hope (Thomas Hunt x OC)

The Promise (Liam and his daughter)

Right At Last (Jackson Nevrakis-Walker x Nicky Beaumont)

Just a Dream (Tobias Carrick x F!MC)

It's Time to Say Goodbye (Maxwell Beaumont x OC)

Second Thoughts (Raleigh Carrera x MC) *NSFW*

Washing Away Your Troubles (Trystan Thorne x F!MC) *NSFW*

Confession Time (Thomas Hunt x OC)