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zombiebabysitter · 3 months

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Location: Los Angeles, California Timing: Current Summary: Charlie continues to run away from the grief that haunts him by doing something impulsive and reckless (again).

Charlie was faced with a decision. Embrace that he would be famous for a tragedy and become something greater than his friends, or let the grief consume him and fade into obscurity.

Charlie Hart was an expert on running away from intense negative feelings. Best friends and long-term partner die in a tragic attack? Become an adrenaline junkie to deal with it. Old friend turns into a confusing mixture of friend and new partner but then Old best friend confesses his feelings after you almost die from blood loss from a brand new piercing courtesy of a demon?

Pack that shit away and not deal with it. Run away to California for the release of a new album recorded by him and said dead best friends and long-term partner. Instead of seeking grief counseling, throw yourself into your work, impulse-buy a house, and continue to do reckless shit that could get you killed because you have a get-out-of-death-free card courtesy of the fuckers that killed your best friends.

Charlie was faced with a decision. Embrace that he would be famous for a tragedy and become something greater than his friends, or let the grief consume him and fade into obscurity. But music? Music was his life. It was everything to him that even in times of crisis, he could always fall back to.

After a long debate with his stylist, Charlie decided it was time to be rid of the long hair. It had served its purpose. But this was a new chapter in his life, he wanted to be something greater than he already was, and he wanted to be something new. The electric trimmer buzzed to life, and the barber behind him looked at Charlie in the mirror, giving him one last chance to change his mind, but Charlie just nodded his head and looked back at the barber. This was it, he was cutting it all off.

The barber nodded back, then let the trimmer go through the locks of brow hair, and Charlie took a deep breath as he saw the hair fall to the floor. No going back now. It was hair, it’d grow back if he decided he hated this. He closed his eyes and let the barber get to work, cutting trimming, and shaping. And when Charlie opened his eyes? His hair was cut short, and curls much tamer. Still long for short hair standards, he’d be able to toss it around and play with it, but the length was gone, and the bangs were gone. He was someone else now.

He gave his thanks to the barber, smiling and tipping him well before setting off onto the street and towards the hotel he’d been staying in. He’d have to send a photo to Finn before the concert, knowing that his boyfriend would be pissy with him if he didn’t show him first before everyone else. He felt lighter, as if cutting off the hair was cutting off a piece of him that he’d been desperately holding onto despite knowing he had to let go.

As he walked down the street, he held up his phone and snapped a photo of himself, then sent it off to Finn with a smirk on his face, then pocketed the device and headed into the hotel where he’d get ready for a show completely on his own, the rituals of the other band members fresh in his mind as he got dressed, got picked up, and was transported to the venue. Vik’s little run in place she’d do and whirlwinds with her arms before every show, Lindz’s vocal warmups, and of course, his and Gareth’s game of smacking each other’s hands together.

A sad smile was on his face as he stared at the places his bandmates should have been before he forced himself to light up, turning into a larger-than-life stage performer that was Charlie Hart.

He was fine because he had to be. Because if he didn’t keep going, he’d surely fall apart. And this was his life, this was the life that he’d signed up for.

No looking back.

#Turning the page #threads #solo;

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tessa-liam · 5 months

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Turning the Page

Come Back to Me Chapter 12

Choices, The Royal Romance, 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

AAll 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 contain crude language, weapons, NSFW material – not Beta’d - please excuse all errors.

Words: 3331

Come Back to Me, Chapter 12

Chapter Summary: As Liam and Riley’s visit continues in Lythikos, they are joined by guests from the Capital.

Music & Title Inspiration: Come Back to Me, David Cook

A/N1: 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’)

‘...and when you see what you need to see

When you find you

Come back to me

...and I hope you find everything that you need

I’ll be right here waiting to see

You find you

Come back to me...’

Lythikos, Cordonia

Liam and Olivia sat together in the cozy sitting room of Nevrakis Chateau, their hands wrapped around steaming cups of dark roast Cordonian coffee. Through the large bow windows, they could see gentle flakes of snow falling from the sky, blanketing the landscape in a soft, pristine white.

The room was adorned with rich, dark wood furnishings, plush sofas and armchairs arranged around a crackling fireplace that emitted a warm glow. Paintings depicting scenic landscapes, adding to the ambiance of comfort and luxury tastefully decorated the walls.

Mischa and Zeus, Olivia’s malamutes, were vigilantly sitting at their mistresses’ feet as she and Liam conversed in hushed tones, their voices blending harmoniously with the peaceful surroundings. Occasionally, the king and duchess would pause to gaze out at the snowfall, admiring the beauty of nature's quiet spectacle as they awaited the arrival of their guests in the early morning.

"I appreciate you taking the time to spend with Riley." Liam smiled warmly; his cup of coffee half raised.

"Of course, Li ... after every obstacle she has had to overcome since arriving in Cordonia for your social season, she deserves validation of her worth.”

"She is struggling, trying to find her place here again.” Liam shook his head, the guilt once again overwhelming him.

"She'll find it.” Olivia observed her friend closely. Olivia sighed and put her cup down.

"Liam, I'm going to tell you something.”

"Okay.” Liam lifted his gaze from his hands in response with hesitation.

"I've never been good at saying these kinds of things, so I'll make this quick.”

"Go on, Liv.”

"You are my best friend, and I care about you. And I know that Riley is the woman for you. I've known that for some time now.” Olivia exhaled deeply. “Even though ...” Olivia twisted her fingers in her lap. “Even though, I wish it were me that you chose.”

Liam listened attentively to Olivia's words, his expression a mix of understanding and empathy. He reached out and gently placed his hand over hers, offering a reassuring squeeze.

"I value our friendship more than words can express, Olivia," Liam spoke with sincerity. "You've been by my side through thick and thin, and I cherish every moment we've shared."

He paused for a moment, gathering his thoughts before continuing. "As for Riley, she's an extraordinary woman, and I feel incredibly fortunate to have her back in my life. Our connection is deep and meaningful, and I believe she's the one I want to build a future with."

Liam's gaze softened as he spoke. "I understand your feelings, Olivia. You have always been a constant source of support and understanding for me, and I value that more than you know. I hope that you will always remember how much you mean to me, regardless of who I'm with romantically."

Olivia nodded, a small smile touching her lips. "I do know, Liam. And I'm genuinely happy for you and Riley. You both deserve all the happiness in the world."

Their conversation was interrupted by the sound of barking. The guests had arrived, and Liam and Olivia exchanged a knowing look, their unspoken bond of friendship and mutual respect stronger than ever after their confessions.

"Thank you again, Olivia.” Liam said as he stood to greet the guests.

"And if anyone tries to get between the two of you, I'll be right there by your side.” Olivia smirked.

"That's good to know, Liv.” Liam chuckled.

“By the way, have you heard from your ex-wife?”

Liam's expression changed, the lines around his eyes deepened, and his jaw tightened.

"Not a word.”

"You know I can personally locate her, right?”

"I have no doubt, but it's not necessary. I have assigned Damien to personally lead an intel team to track her.”

"Okay, but ....”

"She's not going to come between Riley and me.”

"Good. Because if she does, I will personally handle her.”

"You know, I have a feeling you're enjoying this more than you should."

"Perhaps.”

Liam chuckled as he turned to watch Riley with Willam walk hand in hand down the grand staircase.

"Good morning, love." Liam smiled as he bent down to kiss her cheek and reached down to scoop William in his arms.

"There she is...there is my little blossom!" Maxwell cried, running towards Riley engulfing her in a bear hug, lifting her off the ground. Bertrand, Savannah and Bartie followed greeting Liam and Olivia.

"It's good to see you too, Max. You look well." Riley laughed as he spun her around in the air.

"I'm not letting go until you promise to never leave me again."

"Alright, alright, put me down!" Riley giggled, feeling the warmth and affection of her Cordonian best friend. “What are you guys doing here?”

“We came to say hello, silly.” Maxwell winked, as Bertrand walked up to Riley to place a kiss on her cheek.

William tugged on Liam’s pants, "Who's that?" William gestured towards the little boy holding his mother’s hand.

"That's Bartie, buddy. He is Maxwell’s little nephew."

"Hi." William beamed as he waved to Bartie. Damien stepped forward in anticipation to follow the crown prince.

“Hi.” Bartie returned the greeting with a smile.

“Lady Riley, you look well.” Bertrand stood beside Savannah and Bartie.

“It's so good to see you both!” Riley moved up to hug Savannah and accept a kiss on the cheek from Bertrand.

"Bertrand, it's so good to see you."

"Likewise, Lady Riley. You are a welcome sight."

"Aww, thanks, Bertrand."

"And this must be William.”

Bertrand bowed to the crown prince.

"Yes. William, this is your uncle Bertrand.”

"Hello, William.”

"Hewwo." William shyly greeted him, hiding behind Riley's leg.

"Oh, my. This is awkward. I'm not very good with children." Bertrand said nervously.

"It's okay, Bertrand. Just be yourself.” Savannah gently pushed him forward

"Very well. I, ....um, brought you a gift."

Bertrand held out a small box.

"Aww, thank you, Bertrand. That is not necessary." Riley answered.

"Of course, it is. It is only proper etiquette. William is the crown prince of Cordonia." Riley grinned, shaking her head. “I stand corrected.”

***

Under the gently falling snowflakes outside Nevrakis Chateau, William and Bartie ran through the snow-covered gardens, their laughter echoing in the crisp air. Maxwell’s cheeks were rosy from the cold, and his eyes sparkled with childlike delight as he tried to catch snowflakes on his tongue, trying to impress his nephew.

Liam, scooping up snow to build a snowman with William, laughed heartily as he watched his son splayed on the ground creating a snow angel. His normally composed demeanor gave way to playful enthusiasm as he encouraged William's creative ideas for their snowy adventures.

Riley, with Savannah stood by with a smile, capturing the joyful moments with her phone. Her eyes glowed with happiness as she watched Liam and William further bond over the simple pleasure of playing in the snow.

Their guests, a mix of friends and family, joined in the snow-filled festivities. Laughter and good-natured banter filled the air as everyone engaged in snowball fights, built snow forts, and created snow angels together.

As the day progressed, everyone gathered around a crackling fire inside the chateau, sipping hot cocoa and sharing stories. The warmth of the fire contrasted with the cold beauty of the snowscape outside, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere.

***

....later in the evening...

Surrounded by snow-peaked mountains, ensconced in romantic candlelight, Liam grasped Riley’s hand and led her to submerge down into the thermal waters of the outdoor hot tub of the Royal suite.

Riley sank down to let the warm water wash over her. "This is perfect, Liam.”

"It is.”

They sat in silence for a few moments, enjoying the peace and tranquility of the moment.

"What's going on in that sweet, beautiful mind of yours, Riley?"

"I was just thinking about how much time we've lost." Liam could see the hurt in her eyes mixed with unshed tears starting to form before she looked down, unable to keep eye contact with him. Liam reached over to gently lift her chin, as she became emotional.

"We'll make up for lost time."

"How, Liam?"

"By spending every moment together, cherishing each other, and never letting go."

"That does sound nice."

"It does."

Liam reached forward and brushed a strand of hair away from Riley's face.

"I promise you, love. I will do everything in my power to make you happy."

"I know, Liam.”

"So, are you ready to talk about the future now?"

"I am." Riley breathed in.

"Good."

Liam paused, gathering his thoughts.

"I want us to be a family, Riley. A real family.

"Me too, Liam. But, how do we do it?"

"We start by taking things one day at a time. We spend time together and get to know each other again. We take things slowly and enjoy the journey."

Liam looked at Riley with adoration, his eyes filled with love.

“Je veux t’emmener a Paris.” Riley quickly turned her head to look at Liam.

["I want to take you to Paris”]

“Il y a tellement de belles choses que je veux partager avec vous la-bas.”

["There are so many beautiful things I want to share with you there."]

“Okay, okay ... I caught the words, ‘Paris’ and ‘beautiful’.” Riley giggled and then waved her hand in the air. “Everything else went way over my head.”

Liam smiled wide and shook his head. “I want to take you to Paris and share the beauty with you.”

“The Eiffel tower was breathtaking.”

“There is so much more to Paris than the Eiffel tower.” Liam lifted Riley’s hand to his lips and turned her wrist over to gently kiss.

“Je dois montrer a l’amour de ma vie a quel point elle compte pour moi. Te revoir dans ma vie n’a pas de prix.”

[“I need to show the love of my life how much she means to me. To have you back in my life is priceless.” ]

Liam tugged Riley’s arm and pulled her onto his lap.

Cupping her cheek, he met her lips in a slow, sultry kiss, his tongue coaching her to allow him to take her breath away as his tilted her head to deepen the kiss.

Riley more than willingly let Liam take the lead. She missed the thrill she felt when he would take control and melted into his embrace.

Liam’s hands moved down to her waist pressing her body down against his, as Riley wrapped her arms around his neck she felt his impressive length as she could not resist grinding her hips down.

"Let's take this inside," he whispered huskily.

"Mmmhmm." Riley purred.

Liam rose up from the tub and lifted Riley up as she wrapped her legs around him. Dripping water and leaving a trail of wet footprints on the floor, Liam carried carried her inside to the bedroom.

With one arm supporting her, and the other opening the doors, they made their way inside.

"I've missed this," he whispered, kissing her deeply.

"So have I," she replied, her eyes half-closed, reveling in the feeling of his body pressed against hers.

They moved further into the room, stopping at the bed. Liam lowered Riley down onto the mattress, his body following hers.

Riley ran her fingers through his wet hair, pulling him in for another heated kiss.

"I need you, Riley," he whispered, his voice low and husky.

"I'm yours, Liam," she whispered back, her body responding to his touch.

Liam kissed down her neck, his hands roaming over her curves, exploring every inch.

"Liam," Riley moaned, her body aching for more.

“William ...”

“William is comfortably sleeping in the next room.”

Liam paused, as he kissed his way down her body, his hands caressing her breasts, his lips teasing her nipples.

"You're so beautiful," he whispered, his breath hot against her skin.

"I'm yours," Riley replied, her voice full of desire.

Liam kissed his way down her stomach, his hands caressing her hips. He parted her legs, his lips trailing over her inner thighs.

Riley could feel her heart pounding in her chest, her body aching for his touch.

"Please, Liam," she whispered, her voice a plea.

The world seemed to fade away as they lost themselves in each other's embrace. It was if time itself had paused, allowing them this moment of reunification after so long apart. Their hearts beat in unison, a rythym of longing and desire that had been suppressed for too long.

They collapsed on the bed, their bodies entwined, their breathing heavy.

Riley’s fingers traced the lines of Liam's face, memorizing every detail as if afraid this moment might slip away.

Liam, with a gentleness that belied his intensity, cradled her face in his hands, his eyes searching hers as if trying to convey a lifetime of unspoken words.

"I've missed you," Riley whispered, her voice barely audible above the rush of emotions between them.

Liam nodded, his gaze never leaving hers. "I've missed you too, more than words can say."

"Stay with me," he whispered, his voice heavy with emotion.

"Always," Riley replied, her heart full of love.

Riley snuggled closer to Liam, their bodies fitting perfectly together.

"I love you," she whispered, her heart finally feeling complete.

"I love you too," Liam whispered back, his love for her shining through his eyes.

"This is perfect," she sighed, her body completely content.

"You're perfect," he murmured, his arms holding her close as he kissed her forehead.

***

The next day at Nevrakis Chateau in Lythikos dawned with a gentle warmth that matched the newfound closeness that returned between Riley and Liam. As they woke up entangled in each other's arms, the sunlight filtering through the windows painted their room in a soft golden hue.

Riley stirred first, her fingers tracing patterns on Liam's chest as she watched him sleep peacefully. She couldn't help but smile, feeling a sense of contentment she had not experienced in a long time. With a gentle kiss on his cheek, she whispered, "Good morning, my love."

Liam blinked his eyes open, a lazy smile spreading across his face as he saw Riley's loving gaze. "Good morning, beautiful," he murmured, pulling her closer for a lingering kiss.

"Riley," Liam began, his voice filled with affection, "I have a special arrangement for William today. I thought it would be wonderful for him to spend the entire day with Bartie, Maxwell, Savannah, and Bertrand."

Riley's eyes lit up with delight at the thought of William having a day filled with fun and adventure with his friends. "That sounds fantastic, Liam! I'm sure they'll have a great time together."

Liam nodded, a smile playing on his lips. "I thought it would also give us a chance to have some uninterrupted time together, just the two of us. We can explore more of Lythikos, enjoy a quiet lunch, and simply cherish each other's company."

Riley leaned in, her eyes sparkling with affection. "I love that idea, Liam. Spending time with you like this is truly special."

They shared a tender moment, savoring the anticipation of a day filled with shared experiences and cherished moments. Liam's thoughtful gesture to arrange William's day with their friends allowed them the opportunity to reconnect and deepen their bond in the enchanting surroundings of Nevrakis Chateau and Lythikos.

After a leisurely morning together, they decided to explore more of Lythikos. Liam had planned a surprise outing for Riley, eager to show her some of his favorite spots in the picturesque region.

They ventured out hand in hand, enjoying the crisp morning air and the breathtaking views of the mountains surrounding them. Liam took Riley to a secluded spot overlooking a serene lake.

"I used to come here often to clear my mind," Liam shared, his eyes reflecting the tranquility of the place. "It's peaceful, away from the chaos of the palace."

"It's beautiful," Riley whispered, leaning into him as they watched the gentle breeze upon the water's surface.

As they talked and shared stories from their past, Riley felt a sense of belonging she hadn't felt in a long time. Being with Liam in such a serene setting, away from the pressures of their responsibilities, allowed them to connect on a deeper level.

After spending a blissful day together, they returned to the chateau in the evening, where a romantic dinner awaited them. Liam had arranged for a Michelin star chef to prepare a gourmet meal, complete with candlelight and soft music playing in the background.

Over dinner, they talked about their hopes and dreams for the future. Liam expressed his desire to create lasting memories with Riley, to travel the world together and experience new adventures.

"I want us to live fully, without any regrets," Liam said, his eyes locked on Riley's. "I want you by my side in every journey, every moment."

Riley's heart swelled with love, feeling overwhelmed by the depth of Liam's feelings for her. "I want that too, Liam," she replied, reaching across the table to take his hand. "I want us to embrace life together, to cherish every moment."

As the evening progressed, their conversation turned lighter, filled with laughter and playful banter. They danced together in the moonlit courtyard, lost in each other's arms, their worries and doubts melting away in the magic of the moment.

Eventually, exhaustion caught up with them, and they retired to their room, cuddled up in each other's embrace. With a whispered "I love you" and a tender kiss, they drifted off to sleep, ready to face whatever the future held for them, united in their love and commitment to each other.

Thanks for reading; please let me know if you would like to be added or removed from this series.

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#tessa liam writes #the royal romance #liam rys #trr fanfic #trr #riley brooks #choices fic writers creations #king liam and oc #king liam #king liam rys #turning the page

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