#adelaide really wants a piece of Bastien

[bobasheebaby]

Costume Face-off (NSFW)

Pairing: Bastien x Olivia; Liam x Ellie

Word count: 3,284

Warnings: smut, Bastien’s abs

Summary: Beaumont Bash Halloween party and a couples costume bet...

A/N: @stopforamoment sent me the bottom center picture last year and said Baslivia, I promised her and a year later I have fulfilled said promise. I played around with the “prompt” a little. Thanks to @sirbeepsalot for graping and prereading. This is set in the future, 15 months from the beginning, 11 months from opening up about their relationship. Pic # 3 belongs to @metalslimer and @sintwisted, all pictures found on google.

“Ohmygod, look at that one!” Ellie exclaimed as she scrolled through Pinterest with Olivia.

Olivia rolled her emerald eyes. “That’s nothing.”

“Yea, Okay Liv, but we both know we’d never get the guys to agree to something like this. She kept scrolling through. “I mean they are fun, Mario and Princess Peach, Oh. My. God! Look at Jessica and Roger Rabbit!” She scrolled down further, blue eyes going wide. “I take it back! This Roger Rabbit and Jessica, look at her she’s freaking ripped! How the hell did these women talk these men into their costumes?!” Olivia arched her brow knowingly. “Ummm yea, that, but really that won’t here.” She pointed at a picture of seven guys all dressed as different Disney Princesses. “I mean…”

“You underestimate yourself if you don’t think you could get Liam in one of these.”

“Okay Liv, you really could get Bastien to agree to something like this.”

“I could, and I guarantee it would blow anything you and Liam came up with out of the water.”

“Of course you would make it a bet.”

“Does that mean you don’t accept the challenge?”

“Oh no, you’re on, best gender swap costume wins, the loser has to wear the losing costume to brunch the next morning and pay.”

“You’re on, and so going down. A Nevrakis never loses.”

*

Olivia pulled her long crimson hair back into a low bun, her eyes trailing down the rest of her costume in the bathroom mirror. Perfect. She smirked at her reflection, as she gently brushed her hand over the small bump visible in her tight white v neck. She turned to look at the shirt she discarded, still hanging on the hanger. No more crop tops for now. She grabbed her belt, adding the final touch. “You might want to cover your ears, Papa isn’t gonna be thrilled when he sees his costume.” As if on cue she heard the door to their suite open and shut. Even retired, he refused to give up on security, always double checking to ensure everything was secure. “Your costume is on the bed.” She gave herself one last cursory glance, straightening her black vest, before exiting the en-suite.

She stifled a chuckle as she saw him standing at the end of the bed holding the thin maroon material in his hand. She knew this wasn’t what he was expecting when she suggested they go as Han Solo and Slave Leia, she was certain of that by the way he had said yes before the entire suggestion left her lips. She was sure he had visions of her dressed in the barely there bikini, while he was a dashing Han Solo. Think again, I have a bet to win.

Bastien turned, a perplexed look on his face. “What’s this?”

“Your costume, like I said.”

“Livvy, you can’t actually expect me to wear this.” He looked up, eyes slowly trailing up her body. He took in her black knee high boots, skin tight blue jeans, white v neck, black vest. She isn’t kidding. “I can’t wear this.” He shook his head in dismay. There isn’t enough fabric to cover me.

She smirked as she crossed the room to him. “Sure you can.” She unbuttoned his dress shirt. “You certainly have the body for it.” She traced her hands down his firm chest and impressive twelve pack for emphasis.

He shivered under her touch. Don’t give in. “This won’t conceal much, if anything.” He held up the sheer maroon loin cloth.

“Relax, I got you a banana hammock.” She gestured to the small flesh colored material on the bed, sitting next to his collar and chain.

He looked at the barely there undergarment that more resembled dental floss than actual underwear with a grimace. Banana hammock? It’s a g-string! He knew she was only calling the flesh colored scrap of fabric by that name as a means to tease him for his dislike of bananas.

She teased her finger along the waistband of his pants, smiling as he sucked in a sharp breath. “I don’t beg...” Her fingers undid his buckle. “...but I’d be willing to get on my knees.” She winked, pulling down his zipper. She sank to the floor, settling on her knees before she pulled his pants and boxer briefs down, releasing his half hard cock.

He groaned as she wrapped her hand around his length, pumping it in slow, smooth strokes. She smiled as she watched him react to her ministrations, his cock becoming fully hard in a matter of seconds.

“Don’t worry, you’ll be the hottest Leia they’ve ever seen.” She continued to slide her slender hand up and down his thick shaft, feeling heat pool in her core. Later. “You have such a spectacular body; it would be a shame to not show it off.”

“You’re just saying that to get me to…” His words trailed off as she wrapped her plush red lips around his swollen head. His hand gripped the back of her head, steely eyes locked on emerald as he gently bucked into her mouth. “Fuck Livvy.”

She bobbed her head up and down his length, her tongue swirling around his shaft. She gripped his firm buttock with her other hand, giving it a hard squeeze.

He moaned, one of the things he fell in love with was her ability to take charge. He watched as his thick length disappeared into her mouth again and again. His mind swirled; he knew the second he saw his costume he didn’t really have a choice. She doesn’t play fair.

God she’s a goddess with her mouth. He felt his balls tighten and he knew he wouldn’t last much longer. “Livvy.”

She nodded her head, her hand cupping his balls, rolling them in her hand. She hollowed her cheeks, creating suction as she increased her pace.

He fisted her bun as he bucked into her mouth. His eyes remained locked on hers as he came with a groan, spilling down her throat. He softened the hold on her hair as he watched her swallow every drop.

Olivia eased up her pace, gently licking his softening cock clean before releasing it from her mouth. She rose to her feet, wiping the corners of her mouth. “I still think you can pull it off.”

“It was never a question of could… it was more should.”

“You should always show off your impressive physique.”

Bastien laughed shaking his head. God I love this woman.

“So you’ll wear it?”

He looked at the costume in question, knowing it was too late to change costumes. “It’s not like I have another option.”

“Very true.”

“You know you didn’t have to…”

“I know.” She smiled trailing her hand down his bare chest. “I could help you make sure everything is put away.” She licked her lips suggestively.

He forced himself to focus on anything other than her soft hands ‘helping’ him conceal himself in the small undergarment. He knew what would happen the instant her hands were on his body again. God she’s more insatiable than ever. “Thank you for the offer, but we both know that we’ll never leave the room if you do.”

She bit her lip as she hummed her agreement. “You’re absolutely correct.” Her heated gaze scanned his chest, taking in the toned tanned muscle covered in dark chest hair. She felt the heat in her grow. “Go get dressed before I change my mind about going to the party.”

He chuckled as he picked up the small pieces of his costume. He’d much rather stay in the room all night wrapped in her arms, but if he knew one thing about his wife, it was she chose this costume for a reason, one he wouldn’t find out if they were a tangle of sweaty limbs all night. I’ll just have to persuade her to come back early.

*

Olivia nervously toyed with her rings with the pad of her thumb. Large cushion cut emerald and simple platinum band, the perfect mix of him and her, past and present. She smiled as he squeezed her right hand in his, his ability to understand her only growing over the course of their relationship.

“Don’t be nervous.”

“I’m a Nevrakis, we don’t get nervous.” Her voice falling flat, belying her feelings. She turned to look at him. “So few know…” Her hand grazed her visible bump.

“No one will notice, they will be stunned speechless by my costume.”

Olivia chuckled. “Blinded by your impressive abs.” She’d picked the costume before finding out, now she was even more glad she went so extreme to show Ellie and Liam up. Her emerald eyes scanned the front room as they descended the grand staircase. Now where are Ellie and Liam so we can win this bet?

She slipped her hand from his, sliding it around to his backside giving it a hard squeeze as they weaved through the crowd. He removed her hand, intertwining his fingers with hers. “If you keep that up, we will have a wardrobe malfunction on our hands.”

“I’d rather not make Adelaide’s night, I’ll behave.” For now.

*

Adelaide bit her lip as Bastien caught her eye. She allowed her gaze to shamelessly roam his exposed form, her eyes slowly raked down his sculpted chest and abs. What I wouldn’t give to lick them. She shivered slightly as she allowed herself to imagine his chest hair brushing against her erect nipples as she ravished him. Why do all the young men of Cordonia believe a woman wants a smooth chest? A real woman wants a real man; rugged, buff, with hair on his chest. She tilted her head slightly to the side as she reached the sheer maroon fabric. Covered, what a pity. She licked her thin lips as she allowed her mind to wander. She could tell by the barely concealed bulge that he would be a sight to behold. Is it all length or does he have girth too? A shiver ran down her spine as she allowed herself to imagine his large hands manhandling her. She shook her head sadly before draining her glass of champagne. Another opportunity missed. She turned going off in search of another glass of champagne, there was no point in trying to speak to him, she knew Olivia had her claws in far too deep to let him venture off alone looking like that.

*

Drake’s chestnut eyes went wide and he quickly averted his gaze as Bastien and Olivia joined them. He nervously cleared his throat as he struggled to erase the image of Bastien from his mind. “I love you Bas, but I didn’t need to see so much of you.”

“Admit it Walker, you're just jealous you won't look this good in a decade.” Olivia looked Drake up and down, fighting back a chortle at his stay puff marshmallow costume. “Or ever.”

Drake went to run his hand through his hair forgetting the ridiculous hat on his head. Stupid costume! Next time I’m not letting Ellie pick what I dress as.

"Drake, it's no different than when we do laps."

"Really Bas? It’s a huge difference. I mean that's a speedo. This is…” His words trailed off as he reluctantly looked over Bastien’s costume. “I don't know what it is, but it’s not a speedo!"

“Drake, it really is no different.” Ellie stated. “I’m impressed Liv, getting Bas to show off his impressive form, he will be the talk of court for weeks to come.”

“Excuse me my queen?” Liam asked looping his arm around her waist.

“Relax Li, I’m just saying he has an impressive body and I’ve noticed several party goers checking him out as well.”

Olivia smiled, Ellie and Liam’s costume was so perfectly them, but she and Bastien had clearly won. Ellie wore a royal blue waistcoat, cut low almost like a corset and trimmed in gold. Her black locks were mostly down with two pigtails at the front of her head twisted to form horns, she wore minimal face paint, just a nose and a bit of lines to give the appearance of fur, but not too much as to conceal her identity. She nearly laughed at Liam’s long wavy wig. Instead of a dress he’d opted for a gold tailcoat and matching pants, complete with ruffles at the sleeves and collar. Both costumes were well made, clearly professionally made just for the royal couple, yet the idea wasn’t inventive enough. “Liam, I assure you, you have nothing to worry about, your queen only has eyes for you. But I just need to know, what do you think of Bastien’s costume?”

Liam easily slipped into his kingly persona. “Your concept is certainly... forward thinking”

Ellie and Olivia snorted at his polite answer. Even among friends he found it hard to be harsh.

Maxwell danced up to his friends, Olivia lost it at the sight of his gold lamé parachute pants, airbrushed tee and red, white, and blue jacket, topped off with thick gold chain. “Dare I ask who you’re supposed to be Maxwell?”

Maxwell clutched his hand to his chest as he feigned hurt. “Olivia, how could you not recognize Vanilla Ice?” She raised her brow in question. “He’s a rapper, you know ‘ice ice baby. He’s from the nineties...” He trailed off as his brilliant blue eyes fell on Bastien. “Be honest, do you think I could pull that off? I think I could pull it off.” Maxwell rambled to himself. “OMG WE CAN BE TWINS NEXT TIME!" He screamed excitedly.

The group erupted in laughter.

“It’s not that funny guys.” Maxwell pouted deflating ever so slightly.

“Lord Maxwell, I wanted to thank you for implementing the no mask or full face paint rule for costumes.” Bastien said, glancing at the nearby faces.

Maxwell nodded, he’d originally been upset by Bastien suggestion. He soon remembered how badly he’d taken finding out Justin wasn’t who he thought, especially after getting in trouble with Ellie for the cronut incident.

“Bas, you no longer have to use formalities, we are all friends here.” Liam stated.

“Sorry sir, force of habit.” Bastien replied to a chorus of new laughter.

*

Savannah rolled her eyes as Bastien and Olivia joined their group. Could she have picked a tackier costume? “Olivia, for a woman who was born into nobility and raised in the palace, you sure lack taste.” She wrinkled her nose at Bastien’s costume. “As Duke and Duchess shouldn’t you have less revealing costumes?” If you could call it that. I’ve seen more fabric on Penelope’s poodles.

“I have more taste in my pinky finger than you have in your entire body. You’re just jealous that your husband couldn’t pull this costume off in a hundred years.”

Savannah eyed Olivia up and down, eyes widening slightly as she opened her mouth to speak.

Oh no bitch, you don’t get to announce it. “You want to talk about taste and class, yet we both know you have none. Why else would you run off to another country when the father of your child turned you down?”

Savannah gaped at Olivia, stunned speechless by her words.

“You may have married a Duke and gained a title, but I assure you, you’ll never be worthy of the title you bear. I mean, all it took was a ring and you forgot everyone who was there for you.”

Savannah felt steam leave her ears. “What is that supposed to mean?!”

“It means your guest list seemed to be missing a key person in your life growing up. But I guess since you take after your mother that’s to be expected.”

“I seem to remember your own guest list forgetting a house.”

Olivia feigned a frown. She didn’t forget, maybe it was petty but she knew Savannah would feel slighted the way Bastien had. “I distinctly remember extending an invitation to every house. I even believe I sent two separate invitations to Ramsford.”

Savannah seethed, her hands curled into fists. “Lord and Duke of Ramsford, what about the Duchess?”

“Oh dear, must have slipped my mind like a certain invitation slipped yours. Not that it stopped you from showing. Bertrand really does need to revisit etiquette lessons with you; it’s very rude to show up to an event uninvited.”

“It’s not like you didn’t have enough food.”

“That’s because a good hostess is always prepared, even for the uninvited guest that may show up.” Olivia smirked at Savannah’s obvious anger. “But really I’m not sure what Bertrand was thinking when he married you.”

“What the hell is that supposed to mean?!” Savannah growled, she was sick of Olivia’s attitude towards her, she’d put up with it all her life, not anymore.

“I mean, after the stunt you pulled leaving the country with his child, taking money from his house, that the last thing he should have given you was a ring and a title. If it had been me I would have taken custody of the child.”

Savannah took a step forward. She’d spent her entire life trying to live up to the other nobles, now she was one, she refused to allow Olivia to disrespect her in her own house.

“Savannah!” Bertrand grabbed Savannah by the wrist, pulling her back to his side. “You will not attack a member of one of the oldest houses and tarnish the House of Beaumont.”

Savannah let out an annoyed scream. Of course he’s more worried about the status of the family than his own wife. “Fine.” She straightened, hands brushing the sides of her plain blue regency inspired costume. She spun before she stalked off, steam leaving her ears.

*

Neville felt his face grow hot with rage. The indignity! He straightened the jacket of his perfect recreation of his ancestral costume, the very first Earl of Cormery Isle, a man to be feared and respected. He’d stood idly by long enough watching nobles of so called higher houses make a mockery of his country by choosing so called love over duty to country and picking commoners.

He stalked up to the small group, his dark eyes alight with anger. “Duchess Olivia.” He sneered. “You and your husband,” the word fell from his tongue like acid, “are making a mockery of this party.”

Of course he would find himself important enough to interrupt his betters. “There are horses inside, I guarantee you this party was a ‘mockery’ well before it started.” Olivia turned her back towards Neville, signifying she was done speaking to him.

Bastien wrapped his arm around her back. “She means no offense Maxwell.”

Maxwell bounced on the balls of his feet like a small excitable child. “It wouldn’t be a Beaumont Bash if it weren’t a mockery.” He turned to the party, raising his hands in the air. “Let the revelry continue!”

Olivia rolled her eyes as Maxwell danced away being swallowed into the screaming crowd. She turned to Bastien, standing on her tiptoes to reach his ear, she ran her hand up and down his arm, her hot breath fanning against his neck as she spoke. “We’ve been thoroughly seen and you’ve been ogled by more than half the people here. Let’s get back to our room.”

He took her hand in his, eager to  get out of the costume. He still had one question, one that he had hoped to have had answered over the course of the night. “Why this costume?”

“There may have been a bet but, don’t worry, we won.”

A bet?! His eyes went wide at her admission. “You soo owe me.”

“Don’t worry, there might be a small gold bikini waiting for you in Lythikos…”

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Disclaimer: I don’t own the characters, I’m just borrowing them from PB.

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[fluffy-marshmallow-heart]

Drake's Diary ch.27 -Cheers To Lady Emma

The Royal Romance canon from Drake's POV

Words: 5325

Tariq is found, and the court learns the truth of what happened in Applewood.

Master List (Catch Up Here)

Drake is standing near a large stained-glass window at the UN party sipping a glass of whiskey and wondering why Emma hasn’t arrived yet. Looking around, he saw all the usual suspects. Liam, Hana, Olivia, Kiara, Penelope, and Madeleine. He’s scanning the crowd for Maxwell now, assuming Emma will arrive with him, when suddenly, he arrives at Drake’s side and then proceeds to dive behind him as if for shelter.

“What the hell are you doing?” Drake demanded.

“Hide me, Drake, please, I’m such an idiot, I cannot believe what just happened. If Bertrand were here, he would absolutely kill me! Please don’t tell anyone what just happened!!”

  “Maxwell…I literally have no idea what you’re talking about. Are you feeling okay?”

Maxwell groaned. “No. Actually, I think I may be sick.”

Drake immediately side-stepped, leaving him out in the open, turning his head as the click of heels approached.

“Emma, thank goodness you’re here!” Maxwell exclaimed, now trying to hide behind her.

She narrowed her eyes. “That’s suspicious…What did you do?”

Drake chuckled at her reaction, finding it hilarious how well she knew everyone.

Maxwell groaned. “I got my flags mixed up and thought Finland was Sweden, Sweden was Norway, Norway was Iceland, Iceland was Denmark, and Denmark was Sweden.”

Drake let out a laugh now, drawing looks from passersbys. “He addressed all the delegations incorrectly, including Sweden. Twice.”

Maxwell lowered his head. “I was guessing by that point. Now they’ve been arguing for the past hour over disputes going back to something called the Kalmar Union…I just wanted to say hello.”

Emma placed a comforting hand on his shoulder. “Oh, Maxwell…these things only happen to you. How about you, Drake? Caused any diplomatic disasters?”

“That would require me to talk to a diplomat. Do you have any idea how boring they are, Rose?”

“Ahh. Let me guess, you’re just here for the food?” She teased

“And the open bar.” He raised his glass towards her before taking a sip.

“I should have guessed” She smirked.

He couldn’t help but grin at her. “You know me so well. But what are you doing with us? Aren’t you supposed to be doing courtly stuff like winning friends and influencing people?”

Not that I want you to. I want you to stay by my side all night.

She sighed. “Actually, I’m supposed to impress Adelaide tonight. Got any hot tips?”

Drake thought a moment. “If I know anything about Adelaide, it’s that she likes a stiff drink…and Maxwell.”

Maxwell frowned. “She’s always making me dance with her…Maybe I could get a break this time?”

Drake shrugged. “Then I say focus on her other vices. She’ll certainly respect you if you can go drink-for-drink with her. Show her you know how to have a good time.”

“Yeah, and everyone knows she’s the biggest gossip at court.” Maxwell informed.

Emma nodded slowly. “So…alcohol and gossip? That’s…refreshingly simple, actually.”

“That’s the spirit! You’ve got this all by yourself without my help at all!” Maxwell cried happily.

Emma winks at him. “Don’t worry, Maxwell. I won’t tell her where you are.”

Drake nodded towards the bar, “Speaking of, I see her. She’s over by the bar, alone. Now’s your chance.”

“Go get ‘em tiger! Grrrr!” Maxwell made clawing movements with his hands as Emma gave him an odd look before walking away.

Drake turned back to Maxwell. “Feeling any better yet?”

“Actually…” He pointed over towards the buffet. “I see bruschetta! I’m out.” He practically ran over to the food, leaving Drake alone once more. He watches as Maxwell attempts to toss a piece of bruschetta in the air without losing the toppings and then catch it in his mouth…But instead hit a Turkish ambassador in the face…He couldn’t help but laugh to himself on the inside as Maxwell turned bright red, clearly flustered, and speed walked over to a little alcove, almost completely hidden from view. A moment later, Emma joined him and Drake could see amusement written all over her face. Not even a minute later, Emma’s hand flew to cover her mouth and then they were both running out the door.

What the hell just happened? Where are they going? Didn’t even say goodbye?? This literally makes no sense. Something’s going on. She would never just leave without saying goodbye to me. Especially since she likes me walking her back to her room most nights.

Drake set his glass down and started after them when a text came through to his phone. He paused as Emma’s name flashed on the screen.

Emma: Found Tariq! Hurry up, heading to airport!

His heart pounding furiously, he started quickly towards the door, when Liam appeared at his side.

Goddamnit I don’t have time for this. She needs me.

“Drake…where are you going? Why is everyone leaving? I saw Emma leave with Maxwell, Hana took off, and now you? What happened?”

“I really need to go, Liam. But it’s good news, just trust me.”

“Drake please.” Liam grabbed his arm as he tried to walk around him. Drake sighed, looking into the worried eyes of his best friend.

“Maxwell thinks he found Tariq. Something about designer shoes. We’re on our way now.”

“Take the royal jet. I’ll have it ready in 10 minutes. Don’t wait for a commercial flight.”

“Liam, thank you. It’ll be much quicker this way, they’re already on their way to the airport, I’ll let them know about taking the jet.” Drake tried to leave but again Liam stopped him.

“Drake, I just want to say thank you. For looking after Emma this whole time. I know it’s been tough on her. I keep trying to make myself available to her privately, but she never shows up. I don’t even remember the last time we were alone together that I didn’t force by just showing up when I knew she’d be alone. I…I think it was long before the Coronation, only when she first arrived she would join me.”

Drake averted his eyes. She never shows up because she’s with me. I had no idea she was blowing him off this whole time. I can’t believe it…she only spends time with me. Has always only spent time with me. How could I be so blind?

“Do you know something?” Liam asked. “Please tell me?”

Drake nervously ran a hand through his hair. “I uh…I really need to go, Liam. This is really important for everyone. It’s not just about you.”

Drake immediately wished he’d said something else, anything else. He saw the flash of hurt in Liam’s eyes and he instantly felt awful. As usual, though, it was gone in a second and he was back to his stoic self.

“Yes. Good luck. Give my best to everyone and do let them know that I truly wish I could be there.” With one last look, Liam walked away, leaving Drake alone, feeling like the world’s worst friend.

Soon enough, Hana, Drake, Maxwell, Emma were high above the clouds on a red-eye flight to Los Angeles.

“So this is it. All that time searching for Tariq and now we’re on our way to find him.” Emma fiddled with her hands in her lap nervously and Drake wanted to reach over to calm them with his own. But they weren’t alone or hidden from view.

Maxwell looked just as nervous. “Maybe I should’ve asked Bastien to help out.”

Emma shook her head. “No. I wanted people I trust here for this. And that’s all of you.”

“I just hope we can get to Tariq quickly enough. There’s not a lot of time for us to fly back to New York before the wedding shower.” Hana mentioned, leading Drake to feel guilty once again.

Liam really doesn’t want to marry Madeleine. The crown needs a queen. What if she really does say no? What does that mean for Cordonia and Liam? I’m such a bad friend. But don’t I deserve something great for once? Just once. Just her. She’ll all I can ever ask for.

“Never fear! We’re gonna crack this case wiiiiide open!” Maxwell exclaimed

Drake scowled. First things first. “And then I can give Tariq a piece of my mind.”

Emma gave a half smile. “I appreciate the enthusiasm, but I think it’s best if I talk to him. I have to convince him that making a statement to the press and setting the record straight is the only way to make things right.”

At that moment the pilot announces that the plane is approaching its destination and will soon begin the descent.

Hana turned back to Emma.  “Are you ready for this? To face Tariq?”

“I’m ready for this to be over. I just want to put this chapter behind me so I can get on with my life.” Her eyes were narrowed, and Drake could sense the anger rolling off of her.

Me too, Rose. Me too.

Hana looked sympathetic. “I know Liam couldn’t make it, but just remember that you can lean on us. We’ll be there the whole time.”

Is it really unusual, though?

He agreed. “No way we’re leaving you to face him alone, Rose.”

“Yeah! Go team Emma!”

“Thanks, guys. You’re the best team anyone could ask for.”

Soon, they touch down on the tarmac.

As everyone hurries through the airport, and after an hour and one car ride later, they’re standing on a street corner in Westwood, squinting at Maxwell’s list of apartments.

“There are so many of them.” Hana said dejectedly.

 “How are there multiple people in this city who go through three Armani suits in a week?” This is insane. What is this place? I thought New York was something but this…I may as well be on another planet.

Emma thought a moment. “Adelaide said Tariq only buys Sartorini shoes, right? So, cross any addresses from the stores that don’t sell them off the list.”

Maxwell dramatically scratches out a cluster of addresses. “That means we’ve only got a few left!”

“Great! What’s our first stop?”

Maxwell looked at the map then looks around them. “Uhh…this place!” He races up several stairs to the door of an apartment complex and knocks on the door.

“Hello?” A well dressed man opened the door.

Maxwell grins. “Hi! Any chance that you’re hiding a fugitive nobleman? About this tall, wears really minty cologne…”

The man narrows his eyes. “What is this? A cross between Princess Diaries and Dog: The Bounty Hunter? I’ve never met a noble in my life.”

Maxwell reaches into his pocket. “You’re sure? I could show you a picture of him. Or find a sample of his cologne!”

The man backs away, slowly starting to close the door. “N-no thanks, I’m good.” He closes the door in Maxwell’s face.

He sighs. “Off to a great start…”

The next address takes them to a boardwalk along Venice Beach; everyone files up to the porch of a weathered condo.

Alright. Enough of this nice guy stuff. It’s not like I have any intention of being nice to Tariq whenever we do find him.

“Step aside, Maxwell. Let me handle this.” He strides up to the door and raps on it with his knuckles. “Hey! Anyone home?”

The curtains of the condo’s front window twitch aside. An elderly man peeks outside. Drake notices and snarls. “Open the door! We need to ask you some questions!”

The curtains close as the man retreats from the window.

Hana stepped up next to him. “Drake, you’re coming on too strong.” She ushers all of them back and knocks politely. A few moments later, the door opens, and Hana vanishes inside the condo. She eventually emerges with a paper plate in her hands. “The bad news is, no Tariq. The tenants said their son bought a bunch of suits for his job interviews. The good news is, they gave me cookies!”

She held out the plate and they all eagerly grabbed a freshly baked chocolate chip cookie.

Damn this is really good. Maybe I should have been nicer…we’d have two plates of cookies right now.

Emma laughed. “Only you could walk away from a stranger’s doorstep with a plate full of baked goods.”

“I have even better news. We’ve only got on address left!” Maxwell beamed.

“Who knew gossip from Adelaide could come in handy?” Hana questioned.

Drake smiled softly at Emma. “Not me. Nice work, Rose.”

Leave it to Emma to take courtly gossip and actually make it useful.

A short drive later, they arrive at the last address Maxwell discovered and approach the door. The gang stands steadfast at Emma’s back.

She just stares at it a moment. “The point of no return…” Taking a deep breath, she knocks on the door, and a moment later it opens…to reveal Tariq.

Shock was clearly written all over his face. “Lady Emma!”

There’s an audible smack as her open palm connects with the side of Tariq’s face. “Aaaah!” For a brief second, the corners of Drake’s mouth turn up.

That’s my girl.

Tariq rubs his jaw, his face flushing with indignation, and opens his mouth.

Drake instantly stepped forward, planting himself in front of her. “Were you going to say something?” He growled. I’ll do a lot more than slap you.

“I…” He pauses, looking not at Drake, but at Emma. The anger slowly drains out of him. “I…I fear I deserved that.”

Damn right you did.

 Tariq steps to the side of the doorframe, still holding a hand over the place where her hand connected with his face. “Please, come in.”

The group enters the apartment, and stand awkwardly at the threshold. Looking around, there’s a nest of wool coats on the couch and a large pile of leather shoes in one corner.

Tariq spoke nervously. “Well, um…May I offer you anything? My accommodations are a bit paltry, but I can grab us refreshments or…:

“Cut the chit-chat. We’re only here for one thing.” Drake cut in, crossing his arms.

“That’s right. We’re here for answers.” Emma confirmed, positioning herself so once again she and Drake were side by side. He felt her fingers brush his lightly, and he gently brushed hers back with his own. Not holding, but doing all they could to be united at this moment in time. It thrills him that she wants him by her side in all things.

Tariq swallowed, hard. “I suppose I would want the same, in your position. What is it you want to know?”

“Tariq, why did you run away?” Emma asked, trying to keep her voice even.

“I believed my flight from court was necessary, to protect both you and Cordonia from the repercussions of my shameful choices. I…I can see now that I was wrong in doing so. But I swear that my intention was only to spare you any further harm.” He takes a timid step forward, but stops when Drake shifts even closer to her, scowling at him.

Not happening buddy. You’re getting nowhere near her this time.

“Lady Emma, I would never have left, had I known what it would mean for you. I assumed you would be taken care of…that you wouldn’t be hurt. It seemed best to just…disappear.”

“Well, why do you get to decide what’s best?” She asked, angrily.

“You…you’re right. By thinking I could choose the correct course of action on your behalf, I only compounded one trespass with another.”

She sighed heavily. “Tariq…I came here today to ask you to undo the damage that you had a hand in causing. Make a statement to the press…tell the truth about what happened that night at Applewood Manor.”

“It’s the least you can do to make up for all of this.” Hana backed.

Tariq hesitates a moment before speaking again. “Lady Emma, there is nothing I desire more than to atone for what I’ve done, but…I wonder if this is the best path forward…”

Are you KIDDING ME???????? “Are you questing Rose’s judgement? That’s pretty rich coming from you.”

Maxwell nodded. “Yeah, you should probably defer to Emma on this one.”

Emma shifted her gaze back at him. “Tariq, it’s time to tell the truth. You owe me that, at least.”

“The very least.” Just in case he doesn’t know that he really owes her much, much more for this shitstorm he created.

Tariq looked back and forth between them. “I…You’re right. This calamity has gone unaddressed for far too long.”

“So you’ll do it? You’ll make a statement?” Hana inquired.

“I will. I’ll need some time to prepare my finest clothes, but—”

Emma scoffed. “No time. You have to come with us now.”

Tariq looked at her in horror. “What? B-but I need to look my best for a public appearance.”

“Madeleine and Liam’s wedding shower is tonight. If we wait too long, there’ll be no stopping the wedding.”

Drake glanced at her. I wonder what the real reason is for her wanting to stop this so badly. Is because she doesn’t want Liam to be miserable? Or because she wants to be with him? I can’t believe this moment has really come. The moment of truth, the moment she chooses which path she wants.

“I…I see. I suppose there’s no time like the present. I’ll follow your lead, Lady Emma.”

With Tariq in tow at long last, they all return to the jet, setting a course back to New York City. As Tariq freshens up in the back, the rest of the group chats animatedly.

“I feel liberated.” Emma told them. “I’m finally going to be free from this plot…free to live my life again. But most of all, I feel thankful for all of you…for my friends. I could never have done this alone.”

She’s looking directly at me. Drake blushes ever so lightly. “It was nothing, Rose.”

Several hours later, they touch down in New York and immediately head to Emma’s room at the hotel, where Justin and Bertrand are already waiting. Tariq files in with the friends behind him, glancing around nervously.

Justin grins. “So you’re the reason I have a job.”

What the fuck? Why does he sound so happy right now? Doesn’t he realize he’s going to lose his job once this scandal is over?

Tariq looked at Justin, confused. “Err…who is this man?”

“I’m Lady Emma’s damage control. In other words, her press secretary. Now, I just made a deal with the devil to get us half an hour with a sound stage and some cameras on such short notice. If we hurry, I can get a rebate on my soul, and we can get this statement out before the end of the wedding shower.”

Bertrand gasped. “Wait. You can’t simply release it to the press. The court must hear Tariq’s statement, of course, but consider how it will look for the royal family if this goes public in the middle of the wedding shower.”

Hana frowned. “King Liam and Madeleine throw a party to celebrate their wedding with the whole court there, and then…”

“When the statement drops, the press and the court will run with it. They’ll assume that wedding’s not happening.” Drake chimed in, realizing it was sounding like the wrong thing to do.

I saw firsthand how much damage that kind of public humiliation can do. Liam doesn’t deserve it. Hell, Madeleine doesn’t even deserve it. It’s not like she was in on the plan with Constantine.

Justin narrowed his eyes. “And that’s a good thing. If we want to restore Emma’s reputation, we need to make a bigger splash than those photos did at the Coronation Ball. This is our chance to send a message so powerful that no one can question Emma’s innocence.”

But still…… “Hold up. I think this is Rose’s call to make.”

Emma bit her lip. “Justin, once you record the statement, send it to me. I want to talk to Liam and Madeleine before it goes public.”

Maxwell breathed in relief. “I think that’s a good call.”

Justin’s jaw dropped. “As your resident PR expert, I have to disagree. The sooner we get the word out, the better. Don’t give Madeleine a chance to spin this.”

Hana shrugged. “Even she won’t be able to do much about a public statement from Tariq.”

“I really…”

“Enough. I hired you to assist Emma, and she has made her preference clear.” Bertrand interrupted, sounding annoyed.

For a brief second Drake could swear he saw a glint of frustration and anger in Justin’s usual calm eyes, but then he shrugs, quickly flashing his usual smile. “Understood. You’re the boss, boss. Tariq, follow me. We’ve got an appointment to keep.”

Tariq pulls a few notecards out of his pockets as he trails after Justin, nervously rehearsing his statement under his breath.

The tension in the room seemed to evaporate, and suddenly Drake realized exactly how tired he was, and by the looks of it, so was everyone else. “I don’t know about the rest of you, but I need some sleep before we go to this shower.”

Maxwell nodded. “Yeah. My eyelids feel like they weigh a hundred pounds.”

Bertrand blew out a breath that sounded like he’d been holding in for a long time. “While these two cope with their lack of sleep, I must make a few phone calls.”

Drake, Bertrand, and Maxwell file out of Emma’s room, Maxwell waving sleepily as he closes the door behind him. As they split up, Drake’s mind raced with what was to happen next.

We finally found Tariq. We finally cleared her name. Why am I so nervous? I shouldn’t be nervous, I’m not the one about to have all eyes on me yet again. But fuck, I’m nervous.

Hours later, Drake met everyone back at the wedding shower. Madeleine had really gone all out with the decorations. Dozens of crystal chandeliers light the ballroom as nobles mingle among the tables. Against one wall, there’s a large portrait of Liam and Madeleine, with ornate gift boxes piled below it. A pang of guilt washed through him.

I cannot believe I’m feeling bad for Madeleine right now. And Liam…He doesn’t even know we found Tariq, and now he’s going to find out along with everyone else. It’s not right. I hope Emma can manage to talk to both of them.

He sees Emma going over to Madeleine, whose face turns to a look of shock, her face paling. Liam isn’t there. Madeleine walks over to a stage at one end of the room, grabbing a champagne flute from a nearby table and tapping a spoon against it.

“Ladies and gentlemen! If I may have your attention, please…”

Heads slowly turn toward her as conversations fade to whispers, then fizzle out. Liam and guests are looking at her curiously and suddenly Emma is at Drake’s side again, her eyes lighting up as she looked into his, the naturally happy look that she saves just for him. He can swear his heart is going to burst. She presses herself into him, and since there are so many people crowded around and everyone looking at Madeleine, Drake slipped his hand in hers, safely covered by the bulk of her dress.

Madeleine continues. “I’m afraid we’ll have to…”

A phone buzzes. Then another. And another.

Emma let go of his hand, her eyes widening as she looked around the room, a haunted expression on her face. She turned back to Drake worriedly. “No. is that…”

Oh no. It is.

As guests all around begin looking for the source of the buzzing, Maxwell and Hana use the confusion to slip through a group of whispering nobles.

Drake still hadn’t taken his eyes off Emma’s concerned face. “You told Justin not to release Tariq’s statement to the press…right?” Did I misunderstand?

“Yeah…”

Maxwell glanced around. “Weeeeell, I don’t know what happened but…”

As the nobles each begin looking at their phones, murmurs begin to ripple throughout the crowd.

Penelope gasps. “Tariq!”

Liam looked shocked. “They found him!”

“Mon Dieu!” Kiara cried.

Finally, Drake pulls out own phone and sees the breaking headline. “Flirtatious photos or midnight mix-up?” There is a video embedded into the article.

Tariq nervously steps in front of the camera. He fumbles with a notecard in his hand, only to drop it. Giving up on the card, he clears his throat.

“H-hello. My name is Tariq, and I…” He takes a moment to steady himself. “I am here to make a statement regarding the photos of myself and Lady Emma Rose. Many rumors have circulated about her since those photos came to light. I regret not coming forward sooner or to corroborate the truth of what happened. And I regret, even more deeply, intruding upon Lady Emma in the first place.”

As he hits his stride, he stands up a little straighter, crossing his arms behind him. “It was a misunderstanding that led me to her room that night, mistaking it as my own. The photos that were taken of us reveal only this: a breach of privacy that I alone was responsible for…And an arrogant and unwanted advance on my part. Nothing untoward ever happened between us…at least, nothing on Lady Emma’s part. Lady Emma, I offer my sincerest apologies for what I did that night. I hope this message begins to make amends for the harm I have done. As for the other members of the Cordonian court, I hope this will put an end to any unkind speculation about Lady Emma on your part. Th-Thank you for your time.”

The court bursts into exited chatter as everyone finishes watching the video. Dozens of faces turn toward Emma expectantly.

She simply inclines her head in response to the many curious eyes upon her, not justifying their reactions with her own, and receives several hasty bows and curtsies in return. Up on stage, Madeleine clears her throat. Her expression is carefully neutral, but as she sets her champagne flute down, her hands tremble.

“That was…quite illuminating, As I’ve said before, the press has treated Lady Emma incredibly unfairly since this whole business began. On behalf of myself and King Liam, I would like to congratulate her on clearing her name.”

She moves toward Liam as if to take his hand, but stops herself, her smile faltering. Liam gives her an apologetic look as he steps forward to address the crowd.

“Countess Madeleine is right, I believe apologies are in order from all those who have been anything less than welcoming to Lady Emma since the Coronation Ball. I propose a toast to Lady Emma Rose.”

As Liam raises a champagne glass, friends and nobles around the room echo his toast.

Olivia is grinning. “Hear, hear.”

Kiara still looks completely stunned. “To Lady Emma”

Hana cheered. “To Lady Emma!”

Drake looked fondly down at her. “To Lady Emma.” He repeated quietly, his words only meant for her to hear.

“Go, Emma!” Penelope cries out.

Bertrand claps. “To Lady Emma and House Beaumont!”

“House Beaumont forever!” Maxwell calls.

Liam spoke again. “As for the rest of the evening, I hope you all enjoy the food and drink we have provided.” King Liam and Madeleine step off the stage as the crowd descends into scattered applause and eager conversation. As several nobles quickly corner Liam, Justin appears.

“Emma! I got here as fast as I could!”

Emma rounded on him angrily. “I told you not to release Tariq’s statement…I’m waiting for an explanation.”

Justin grimaced. “Yeah, I’d want one too if I were you. Some wannabe reporter spotted Tariq when I was getting him to the soundstage. She followed us inside and got footage of the whole thing. I’m sorry. I should’ve been more careful.”

“Well, that seems awfully convenient. Isn’t this what you wanted?” Emma retorted.

“Look, I won’t pretend to be sad that Tariq made the evening news. That’s good for your rep, Emma. But you asked me to do a job, and I let you down. And all I can say is that I’m sorry.”

“This had better not happen again.”

“It won’t, I promise. I’d better, umm, leave you to your company.”

He steps away as Madeleine makes her way over, lowering her voice in a furious whisper. Drake keeps a short distance away, close enough to intervene if necessary. He’s fully aware of how ruthless Madeleine can be when provoked.  “What was the meaning of all that? Did you warn me just so you could dash my hopes of preserving some dignity?”

Emma looked at her pleadingly. “The video wasn’t supposed to go public yet. I was just as surprised as you.”

“You’ll have to forgive me if I find that hard to believe,” Madeleine laughs, though there’s no joy in the sound. “I suppose I should’ve known you wouldn’t give up until you had what you wanted. Enjoy the satisfaction while it lasts, Emma.”

She struts away and Drake re-approaches.

“Well, at least that’s over with…” Emma said uncertainly.

He gently nudged her shoulder with his. “Come on, Rose. Let’s get out of here before the press shows up to ask questions.”

“Good idea, I’ve had about enough of this shower.” She turned on her heel, and Hana, Drake and Maxwell walk back to the hotel without incident, each seemingly lost in their own thoughts. Everyone files into Emma’s room as soon as she unlocks the door.

“What a night.” Hana sits down on the bed, looking exhausted.

Emma nodded. “I can’t believe it’s finally over.”

“Nor can I.”

Drake turns around, seeing Liam in the still-open doorway, smiling at Emma.

“Liam!” Emma squealed, giving him a hug.

Drake chided himself for the jealousy he was feeling. She hasn’t actually hugged me yet…Uncertainty flooded through him, momentarily forgetting that she stood by him every step of the way, held his hand, gave him longing looks when no one was watching. Not to mention the way she kisses me. Was it all a game to her? Am I a holding place for Liam? It’s not like it hasn’t happened before…except before I never loved the girl.

“I had a feeling you all would come here. I came to see you as soon as I could. You’ve done it, Emma. My father put you through so much, and now, after so long…you’re finally free of what he did. And what Tariq did. I can only imagine how you’re feeling.”

“More than anything ese, I feel relieved. I’ve spent so long with plots and schemes hanging over my head that part of me can’t believe that it’s finally over. It feels good to be done with it all.”

Liam grinned. “I knew you would find your way through, Emma. I’m only sorry you had to endure so much to get there.” He looks at her meaningfully, about to say more…when Maxwell jumps in.

“Now that you’re in the clear, this calls for a celebraaaaaation!”

I wonder what he was about to say.

Emma chuckled. “What did you have in mind?”

“What has amazing fried foods, carnival games, and crazy rides?”

Drake rolled his eyes. He’s only been talking about this since before we left. “It’s Coney Island. He wants to go to Coney Island.”

Emma taps her chin thoughtfully. “I see…”

“Yep! You. Us. Tomorrow afternoon. Liam can come too if he wants.”

Liam smiles. “An excellent idea. I have more to deal with tonight, but I believe I could get away tomorrow. I’ve heard that the view from the top of the Ferris wheel is not to be missed.” He looks directly at Emma, clearly trying to communicate something with his eyes.

“It can be pretty romantic. I’ll be there.” She agrees.

What the hell is happening right now? Is she really….

“3 o’clock tomorrow, then. Don’t be late!”

Drake sighs heavily. “She’s the whole reason we’re going there, Maxwell. We’re not going to leave without her.”

“Don’t worry. I wouldn’t miss a second of it.” She assured him. Her eyes met Drake’s again, and he looked away quickly, not wanting to see whatever truth she was showing him.

“Er, I’m still really tired. I’m going to head for bed. Congratulations, Rose. Goodnight.” He quickly turned and fled out the door, racing back to his room.

Maybe I really am a fool. But if I am…well…at least we have tomorrow.

  @annekebbphotography @carabeth @gardeningourmet @eileendannie @alesana45 @thequeenofcronuts @drakewalkerfantasy @zigortega4life @friedherringclodthing

 @hrhdes @drakewalkerisreal @akrenich @feartheendlesssummer @moonlightgem7 @i-miss-trr @noey718-blog @snyggflicka @rhymesmenagerie @gibbles82 @drakensworld @i-only-signed-up-for-fanfiction @crookedslimecreatorpasta @be-still-my-aching-heart

@notoriouscs @agent-bossypants @flowerpowell @whenyourheartskipsabeat @katedrakeohd @drunktheorist

[dangerousfoxfest]

Collide: Chapter 1 Crash into me.

COLLIDE Part 1: So I thought I would try and write my first ever story. Having been inspired by so many writers on here. @ao719 @blackcatkita @bobasheebaby @fluffy-marshmallow-heart @flowerpowell I could go on but those guys have been my main inspiration to get up and write.

Characters belong to Pixelberry.

So this story is RR where Tariq is not found and Liam marries Madeline. I wanted to think outside the box in this one. So hopefully it develops well enough for you all. There is a main character death in this storyline. I’ll likely just write this up in three parts.

Collide Part One-The Crash. 1793 words.

“I can’t go back with you!” Riley exclaimed. In her NYC apartment she readily abandoned a few months before to follow the man of her dreams to a country she had never heard of; now here he was sitting with her on her couch, his piercing blue eyes mirroring the look of devastation in her own eyes. “Either way if I stay or go back with you...you’ll marry her!” The tone of Riley’s voice was devoid of hope, she knew time had run out.

“…come back with me!...” Liam’s voice was breaking “I can….” The words failed to materialise, he knew failing to find Tariq in time was the end of all hope they both had. “Please” Liam pleaded, “we can still be together.”

“What as your side piece?” Riley shot back. “I want to be with you….out in the open….no sneaking around….letting everyone know your mine….and I’m yours…..can you guarantee that???”

“I’m sorry….I have responsibilities…..the crown…..” Liam tear filled eyes fell to the ground knowing in order to give Riley the relationship and life she deserved he had two choices. Breaking off his engagement to Madeline or abdication of the throne.

The first option now too late, the wedding shower has taken place and in Riley’s home town no less, there is no reasonable reason the public would accept to break off his wedding to a noble to marry the American girl who caused such a scandal. Then the second option having been discussed with Riley in the Italian blue grotto cave….Riley had made him realise he would never abandon his people.

“I know….and I would never ask you to choose me over your reign…I love you so much….your kindness…your courage” Rileys voice trailed of her hand touching softly at Liam’s cheek….”but I can’t go back”

With one last painful kiss, Liam nodded he rose from the sofa and left Rileys apartment. Riley sat frozen and in shock not moving from the same spot she sat for hours, she cried so much and so hard she literally felt her heart break. She felt she couldn’t breathe, whereas in reality she was breathing extremely fast, the room spun around her before going black.

Three years later….

Liam sat in his office finishing off his endless pile of paperwork for that day. Sighing he looks out his window. It was past eight and had now gone dark. What a beautiful evening for a walk and lose himself in the maze he thought. Since the wedding three years ago, Liam had preferred the sanctuary of his office than leaving it, decreasing the possibility of spending any time with Madeline when she was at the Palace. This room he thought of especially as escape room as Madeline has been talking of producing the much needed heir to the throne. Liam had been avoiding any aspect of sexual contact with Madeline since the wedding and he did not have any desire to start now. Even if she did have a point, the crown does need to produce an heir. Thankfully, she wasn’t going to be at the Palace this week. Madeline had been heavily involved in a charity opening launch lately. Nevertheless, he did not miss her presence or crave any knowledge of where she was or what she did. Madeline had her life and work and he had his.

There was a knock at his office door. “Come in” Liam responded.

“Your Majesty” Bastien entered nodding his head to Liam as he entered the room.

“Bastien” Liam smiled as his trusted security advisor came into the office.

“Sir…” Bastien face looked grave as he informed Liam “We’ve received a call from the Cordonian Ambassador at the American Embassy.”

“Oh! What’s happened?” He questioned

“The information still sketchy but it’s Her Majesty, Sir”

At his moment Liam felt confusion…”Madeline….what information? why would they call about her?”

“They have reported her Majesty, one male security guard and one other female passenger were in a car, when it crashed off the freeway. Sir”

“How bad?” Liam asked

“It’s bad, Sir” Bastien replied “One reported Fatality”

“Do we know who?” Liam asked his heart was pounding. This was not news he was expecting to receive….. ever. Madeline was not his favourite person, but she was Queen of his people. He had respect for that role and how she played it.

“They have been unable to confirm that at present, the scene and injuries were quite extensive, Sir.” Bastien answered. “However, what we do know that it is a female fatality and 2 passengers appears critically injured Sir, emergency services are still on the scene”

“Bastien, have the jet ready to go as soon as possible.” Liam ordered. “Yes Sir” answered Bastien.

Liam then paused in thought, “Bastien. Are the press aware of any of this?” He asked.

“No not yet sir, however as time passes the news stories will leak through” Bastien warned. “Right” Liam replied “ we better wake up Regina right and let her know what’s happened, Madeleine is her family after all. Then we will have to break the news to Adelaide either way she will want to fly to America I would imagine.”

Liam pulled out his phone and called Drake and Olivia. He hoped he hadn’t woke up their baby, however as his friend and members of the council he needed their help to work with his press secretary to prepare his press statement of what they know just now and ward off any rumours the fatality is Queen Madeline. At least until he knew for certain. At that moment Regina entered the office, worry etched on her face. “Liam” she exclaimed rushing over to hug him. “Bastien told me about the accident…have you heard any more…..do we know if it’s her yet?” “No, not yet” replied Liam “I am going to call the Cordonian Ambassador at the American Embassy to obtain further information.”

The next two hours passed quickly. Liam unable to receive more useful information from the Cordonian Ambassador, much to his annoyance. However, now the unknown female passenger and male security guard have been cut from the car wreckage and airlifted to hospital. Only trusted palace staff informed of the news moving around the Palace reacting to what was needing done.

Liam was packed up and the plane ready to leave. “Is Adelaide on her way yet?” Liam asked Regina as she came back into his study placing her phone in her bag. “Yes she was staying in the Capitol tonight, she will meet you at the airport” Regina replied. “How is she?” Liam asked, he knew the answer, what mother wouldn’t be a mess at this news. “Not good” Regina responded “but she is focusing on that it may not be Madeline and she may not be involved.” Liam nodded, he thought there was some logic to that thought. At the very least It would help keep her sane during the flight he thought.

Liam and Bastien left the Palace in their SUV making their way to the airport. The private jet was ready to go. Adelaide was already on board. Liam could see her tear stained face straight away. The pain and worry so clear. The normally vibrant and carefree Nobel had the weight of the world on her shoulders right now. Liam walked over and embraced Adelaide who broke down in his strong arms. Ever Stoic, Liam held Adelaide like she would break if he let her go. The embrace was interrupted by Drake and Maxwell who were rushing on boarding the plane with their bags. They stopped suddenly feeling they were intruding on this moment.

Adelaide stepped back her hands holding onto his lower arms and facing gave a half hearted smile to Liam which he returned. Adelaide turned to Drake and Maxwell standing awkwardly at the plane door. “Sorry we didn’t mean to interrupt” Drake said as he continued to walk further into the plane with Maxwell following behind. He and Maxwell embraced Adelaide quickly. “We thought you would need some moral support” Maxwell told Liam as he sat down onto one of the seats. “So Drake called me told me what’s happened so I asked him picked me up on his way here….I hope you don’t mind…..” Liam smiled at Maxwell “thank you Maxwell…and Drake” he said turning to his best friend. “Information is very still slow and sketchy and I am not sure really what is going on”

“Your Majesty, the pilot has clearance from air traffic control to leave”

“Of course Bastien” Liam Answered. Bastien nodded and turned to head toward the cockpit. At that moment Bastien phone rang. Bastien answered and as the caller relayed some information. Liam saw Bastien face visibly drain of colour. Bastien turned off his phone for take off and looked towards Liam. At that moment a member of the Private Jet cabin crew insisted Bastien take his seat. Bastien protested but it was no use, unless he took his seat the pilot would miss his clearance for take off and they would be delayed even more. Bastien gave Liam an apologetic look. Having not know Bastien as long and not as familiar with him Adelaide still in a fog had missed the change in Bastien which Liam had noticed. However, she gave Bastien pleading looks to ignore the cabin crew instructions and tell them all the details of the telephone call. For the moment the information he held would have to wait until the plane had taken off.

Within minutes the Plane had taxied on the runway and took off into the night sky, and into the fate of Cordonia’s future.

The seatbelt light was switched off, and Bastien was on his feet. Walking hurriedly along the aisle towards Liam. Adelaide stops him “what did they say?....is it my daughter?” She asked. “I am sorry they have stated they will not provide any information until a formal identification can be carried out, they have asked that his Majesty would do this” Bastien replied. Adelaide crestfallen nodded tears again running down her cheeks.

“Your Majesty” Bastien nodded towards Liam.

“Bastien……I heard what you said to Adelaide……but what did they tell you? I seen your face” Liam ordered. He was no longer asking he knew this news was significant enough to drain the blood from Bastien’s face.

“It’s lady Riley Sir” Bastien responded.

“What about her?”Liam asked puzzled, his heart racing at the mention of her name. Still….three years later after they last met…..after they last parted.

“Holligan?” Drake rose up on hearing Riley’s name made his way toward Liam and Bastien.

“Yes, Lady Riley Holligan” Bastien answered turning toward Liam “the call was from the Embassy as you have guessed. They have information on the other female passenger……Lady Riley….she was in the car with Her Majesty.”

[ladynonsense]

A Royal Disgrace (TRR/PM Crossover) Part 4 (NSFW)

Catch up on my masterlist

Pairings: Liam x Riley, Drake x Riley, Damien x m!Kai, Damien x Liam

Rating: NSFW (violent themes and explicit sex, adults only please!)

Summary: While Riley spends the day showing Drake around the city, Liam asks Damien for help in tracking down Tariq’s killer.

Tag List: @hustacks @wannabemc2 @hopefulmoonobject @brightpinkpeppercorn @annekebbphotography @choiceslife @perriewinklenerdie @blackcoffee85 @pixieferry @nazariobae @zaffrenotes @sleepwalkingelite @ritachacha @h3llostrang3r 

Words: 3740

Paris, France

Liam laid awake in his private car on the train, unable to sleep. He glanced at the clock; it was nearly midnight. Everyone would be asleep, most likely, except possibly Drake.

He sat up in bed, turning on the lamp. Spending some time with Drake after a long day of endless meetings actually sounded nice.

After slipping on some jeans and a sweater, he stepped out into the night, heading for the hotel with the pool room that Drake had liked so well. It seemed a safe bet that he would be spending his last night in Paris enjoying it one last time. If not, Liam could always enjoy a game by himself. 

He noticed Bastien tailing him as soon as he started to walk away from the train, and slowed to walk beside him. “Sorry to disturb you,” he said, “I just needed to get out for some fresh air.”

“It’s no trouble at all,” Bastien assured him. “I’m happy to keep an eye on you.”

They walked in comfortable silence to the hotel, where Bastien lingered in the lobby while Liam proceeded to the private pool room. The staff merely waved as he approached, letting him go where he pleased.

When he opened the door to the room, he stopped dead in his tracks.

Drake was there. Shirt off, leaning back against the pool table. Riley, dressed only in her underwear, was pressed against him, kissing him passionately as his hands wandered over her body and pulled her closer. Liam stifled a surprised gasp, instead pulling the door shut as silently as he could before walking briskly back to the train.

————————————

New York City, two weeks later

Liam crawled back onto his bed, gently kissing Riley’s sleeping face. She stirred slightly but did not wake.

“Wake up, my love,” he sang to her softly, running his fingers through her hair. She groaned and rolled over before finally opening her eyes and smiling up at him.

“Good morning, handsome.”

He stroked her cheek and leaned down to kiss her lips softly, lingering there for a long moment. “Good morning,” he whispered as he finally pulled away.

Riley sat up in the bed, stretching and yawning dramatically. Blushing, she smoothed her hair down with her hands. “I’m used to being a little more put-together for you.”

Liam chuckled softly. “I like you like this.” He captured her lips again, lying her back against the pillows as he crawled on top of her, sliding a hand under his own t-shirt that she wore to explore the soft skin beneath. She moaned against his mouth, her body arching up against him.

A sharp knock at the door startled them both out of the kiss. Liam glanced at his watch. “And that will be Bastien letting me know I have to run to another exciting all-day trade negotiation.”

Riley groaned, wrapping her legs around his waist to keep him close. “Don’t,” she pleaded.

He pried her legs off of him, reluctantly standing to leave. “I have to. But you can stay here as long as you need to.”

She grabbed her phone off the table, checking the time. “If you insist. Looks like I’ve got a few hours of free time before I’m meeting Drake.”

Liam tried to hide his wince. “You have plans with Drake today?”

She scrolled through her phone idly as she answered. “Yeah, he had some errands and I said I’d show him around my old neighborhood a bit. Should be fun.” She looked up at him, frowning. “Is that OK? Is it...you know...safe?”

He tapped his foot, considering. “You should be fine, but tell him what’s going on, OK? He can help keep an eye out for anything suspicious. And try to stick to areas with lots of people, where there would be too many witnesses for anyone to make a move against you.”

“That all sounds a little scary.”

He leaned down to her once more, kissing her gently. “It is, but I don’t want you to be cooped up here like a prisoner, either. Do what you think is best.”

She wrapped her fingers around the base of his neck, pulling him in closer as she kissed him deeper, her tongue gently grazing his before pulling apart to catch her breath.

“I really do have to go now,” he mumbled against her lips.

“Good-bye, then. Please be safe.”

He squeezed her hand before letting it go. “I will.”

————————————

Damien was just washing his dishes from dinner when Liam showed up at his door.

“Thank you for letting me stop by again,” he said bashfully. “I brought you something.”

Damien took the simple paper bag from his hands and opened it to find an elegant-looking bottle of amber-coloured rum. “This looks...very fancy.”

Liam grinned, leaning casually against the wall. “Well, Riley may have been right about you not having anything good. But I think you’ll enjoy this.”

They grabbed some glasses and gathered around the coffee table, sipping at their drinks. Damien swirled his glass a little before taking a small sip. “Oh, that’s...wow, that’s actually really good.”

Liam sampled it thoughtfully. “Mmm...vanilla and coconut and...pineapple? No, mango. Perfect level of sweetness and just a little rough around the edges...why are you looking at me like that?”

“No reason, Your Majesty. Please continue.”

Liam rolled his eyes. “Fine, what does it taste like to you?”

Damien took another sip, considering it for a moment. “It tastes like rum. Which I enjoy. So...thank you, again.”

 “You’re welcome. But...”

“...You didn’t just come here to give me a gift.”

He exhaled hard, setting down his glass. “No, I didn’t. I was hoping to hire you, actually.”

Damien set his glass down next to Liam’s and leaned in. “I’m yours. I already returned my client’s deposit and informed them I would be unable to complete the surveillance job. I want to help you and Riley.”

Liam couldn’t help but smile. “Well that was...much easier than I’d planned for. But should we talk about what the job actually entails?”

“Seems like a good course of action. One moment.” Damien retrieved a handheld audio recorder from a junk drawer before plunking back down into his chair. “If we’re going to keep drinking, it’ll probably be best to have a record I can refer to.”

“If we’re going to keep drinking, I might not want a record to refer to,” Liam quipped, but he didn’t object as Damien set up the recorder. “What do you want me to tell you?”

“Start with everything you uncovered about the initial plot to embarrass Riley and Tariq, please.”

Liam laid out everything they’d learned up to that point as Damien scribbled down names in a notebook: Constantine. Bastien. Penelope. In another column, Olivia. In another, Madeleine. Liam frowned at the growing list, mostly made up of people he trusted, but gave as much information as he could.

“OK, OK, this is helpful. I think I’m getting the picture. Now...who stood to benefit from Madeleine on the throne? Who would have wanted her there the most?”

He considered for a moment, tapping a finger idly against his freshly refilled glass. “Well, there’s Madeleine herself, obviously. Her family stood to benefit from the boost in status and influence, and to recover from the embarrassment of my brother’s broken engagement with her.”

“Hold up...Madeleine was engaged to your brother?”

Liam rubbed his chin thoughtfully. “Is that important? They were betrothed for years, but he abdicated his title and broke off the engagement. That’s how I ended up the Crown Prince despite being the second son.”

“Hmmm.” Damien jotted down some more notes. “It’s probably not relevant but...that must have been quite a surprise for you.”

An awkward silence fell between them as Liam took a long drink of rum. “Yes, it was...a difficult time, but ultimately, I can’t complain about becoming king. I think I always knew the responsibility would fall largely to me, even if it were Leo on the throne. He never had much interest in ruling Cordonia.”

Damien nodded, focusing his attention back on Liam rather than his notes. “OK. So Madeleine’s family -- who are the players there?”

“There’s my step-mother, Regina, for starters. Madeleine’s mother is her first cousin, and made no secret of her preference. However, she also seemed perfectly ready to support Riley once she realized that was going to be my choice. She didn’t seem motivated to interfere.”

“OK -- that’s good to know. Who else?”

Liam sighed. “There are her parents. Duchess Adelaide is her mother. She’s a bit of a wild card but I don’t believe she’s a violent person, and she seems rather fond of Riley as well. Madeleine’s father is Duke Karlington. I don’t know him as well as Adelaide as he tends to avoid court. But he is a very serious and proud man.”

Damien scribbled furiously, frowning. “How serious? How proud?”

Liam frowned in return. “If you’re asking if he’s capable of murder, I just don’t know. I obviously would hope not, but I can’t personally vouch for the man. To be frank...” He glanced at the audio recorder, looking nervous. “He’s quite...unpleasant.”

Damien smiled softly and turned off the recorder. “You can tell me how you really feel, Liam. I won’t share this recording with anyone, but I understand your caution.”

With the recording stopped, Liam visibly relaxed. “OK. He’s an insufferable snob. But if he’s cruel or violent, I’m not aware of it. His image is very carefully maintained.

Damien nodded. “So...he must have hated having his daughter publicly embarrassed by your brother’s broken engagement.”

“Yes...I’m sure he did. All this is entirely irrelevant to Riley and Tariq, though.”

“Hmmm.” Damien relaxed into his chair, staring up at the ceiling. He was feeling buzzed and a little sleepy, but pieces were coming together. “Unless he had reason to believe that Tariq was going to release a statement that might cause you to cancel your engagement, embarrassing Madeleine a second time.”

Liam copied his posture, staring up at the ceiling, running his hands anxiously over his own face. “Well...shit.”

He couldn’t help it; Damien burst out in giggles, doubling over with laughs. “Oh my god,” he croaked, “I’m so sorry, we’re discussing a murder, I just...”

“...Drank way too much rum?” Liam offered, smiling.

“...I just have the king of Cordonia drinking and swearing in my apartment.”

Liam laughed, warm and deep, appreciating the absurdity. “Did you not think I knew any curse words?”

“You’re just...surprising, is all.” Damien immediately blushed at his own comment, caught off guard by his affection for this client that had intimidated the hell out of him an hour earlier. 

As his off-the-record questioning went on, they continued drinking and laughing together, Damien learning all the Cordonian courtly gossip that Liam had to offer in the hopes of narrowing down any possible suspects. Eventually Liam was simply pouring out his own heart, opening up as he’d never done before.

“Can I ask you something?” Damien blurted out in the middle of one story about Liam’s childhood.

“Of course,” Liam nodded. “Go ahead.”

“What happened to your mother? Everything I found was rather vague on the matter.”

Something dark crossed Liam’s face before he pulled together his usual careful composure. “She was assassinated by poison when I was a child.”

Damien swallowed hard, his mouth suddenly dry. “Seriously?” 

Liam threw back the remainder of his drink. “Seriously.”

“Fuck. No wonder you’re worried about Riley’s safety. And your own.”

His face fell, all his usual confidence gone. Suddenly he looked alarmingly young, like a beautiful child with the weight of the world on his shoulders. “I never stop worrying about my family’s safety. And Riley...she’s supposed to be part of my family. Supposed to...” He trailed off, biting his lip.

“Shit, Liam, I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have...”

“Can I tell you something, please? Without you judging Riley too harshly?” Damien nodded, his brow furrowed with concern. “I saw something...weeks ago, back in Paris.”

“What did you see?” Damien picked up his pen, but set it down again as Liam held up a hand in protest.

“I saw Riley rather...intimately involved with my best friend. It looked...they looked...” He couldn’t finish the sentence, his face screwed up to keep from crying.

“That’s...I’m sorry man, that’s awful. Are you two exclusive? I mean, you’re engaged to Madeleine...”

He shook his head, dabbing at the corners of his eyes with a handkerchief. “She knows I’ve never had any...romance with Madeleine. I suppose I just assumed she would be faithful to me. Especially after the Tariq incident...”

“Right...she wasn’t involved with Tariq, but those photos could just as easily have been with...”

“...Drake.” Liam’s voice shook as he said his name.

Damien studied the man in front of him silently. So perfectly put together in his bespoke black suit, his flawless glossy black hair. He was an imposing figure, despite only being a little broader and taller than Damien himself. That charismatic star power that Riley had always possessed was tenfold in Liam, his very presence dominating the room -- a kind of natural power, as if he’d truly been designated king by god himself, as his ancestors would have believed. Seeing him in tears, exhausted and heartbroken, was jarring. 

With a deep breath, he reached out and laid his hand over Liam’s. He looked up at him, clearly surprised by the affection, his expression shifting from pain to curiosity. “Hey,” Damien said softly, “we’re going to figure this out, OK?”

Liam nodded, flipping his palm to squeeze Damien’s hand. “Of course. I hope you’ll excuse...” he trailed off, biting his lip, fighting for composure. “Excuse this small...um...” words failed him, and he looked at Damien apologetically, with so, so much sadness in his eyes.

Something inside Damien snapped at that sweet, sad gaze. Without releasing his hand he moved to sit next to Liam on the couch, wrapping his other arm around his shoulders, leaning in close...

His lips were hardly an inch from Liam’s when he suddenly pulled back, snapping out of whatever influence he’d come under. “Jesus, I’m sorry, I can’t believe I...”

Liam silenced him by grabbing him by the shirt and pulling him into a fierce, desperate kiss. They broke away only when they were both out of breath, panting as their foreheads pressed together. “Please don’t apologize,” Liam breathed.

His cheeks were still streaked with hot tears. Damien gently wiped one away with his thumb, trailing it down across the corner of his mouth to the chiseled edge of his jaw. Liam’s eyes fluttered shut and he nuzzled against Damien’s hand, a moan escaping his lips at the soft touch. He looked so beautiful that Damien’s breath hitched and faltered. “We can stop...”

“I don’t want to.” And then Liam was pushing him backwards onto the couch, hovering over him, his hands tugging his shirt free of his pants and then running from his abdomen to his shoulders, leaving no square inch of skin unexplored as his mouth worked slowly over his, a tender and unhurried kiss that ignited a deep fire within his chest.

Damien gripped at Liam’s hips, pulling him down roughly against him. Some part of him knew this was madness, but Liam was irresistible. He couldn’t imagine why someone like him would be interested in him even for a one night stand, but he wasn’t about to argue when Liam’s hand was sneaking underneath his waistband, teasing...

“Bed,” Damien croaked. “Now.”

Liam grinned at him, the pain and vulnerability gone from his handsome face. “Yes, sir.” he responded with a wink, standing up and helping Damien to his feet. He followed Liam to bed, shaking his head in amusement. It was 50/50 odds; either he’d be the kind of man who was eager to relinquish his usual position of power in bed, or the kind of man who...

“Get on your knees,” Liam commanded once they were both in the bedroom.

That answers that, then.

Damien sunk to his knees obediently, heart pounding in his chest as he unfastened Liam’s belt and slacks, pulling them down to the ground so that he could step out of them. He watched in awe as he removed the rest of his clothes, standing before him in nothing but simple black briefs that couldn’t quite contain his straining erection. His body looked like something that should be carved of marble and displayed in a museum. Perfect...he’s perfect.

He leaned forward and kissed along the waistband of his underwear, his hands running up and down the backs of his toned thighs. Liam let out a small gasp, his hips instinctively pushing forward as his eyes rolled up to the ceiling. “Please,” he begged, his voice cracking his desire.

Nipping at the tender skin of his abdomen with his teeth, Damien slowly dragged Liam’s briefs down to the floor, adding them to the pile of discarded clothing. He hastily pulled off his own shirt before pulling himself back to standing, looking Liam in the eye.

“You’re used to getting what you want,” he stated plainly, staring him down.

Liam surprised him by laughing. “And I’m supposed to believe you go around looking like that,” he swept his hand from Damien’s waist up to his face, “and don’t get whatever you want?”

“Maybe what I want isn’t so easy to come by,” Damien growled, wrapping one arm around Liam’s waist to pull his body against his own. Their lips came together again, harder this time, Liam’s tongue exploring his mouth now, tasting of expensive rum that was delicious and exquisite with the perfect level of sweetness and only made better by being a little rough around the edges...

“Fuck me,” Damien pleaded, surprised by the shameless words coming out of his own mouth, unbidden.

“Yes,” Liam groaned, tackling him onto the bed. He kissed him once more -- desperate, possessive. He hastily finished undressing him before pausing and sitting back on his knees.

“Are you OK?” Damien asked, propping himself up on his elbows.

“Yes, I just...I’ve never...not with a man...”

“Oh.” Damien ran a hand over his face, trying to slow his breathing and his racing heart. “It’s not so different, just...here.” He grabbed a small tube of lube and a condom out of his bedside table, tossing it to Liam. “Just be gentle. Or...you know. Not.” He couldn’t stop himself from smiling as he rolled back onto the bed, burying his face in the pillows as he waited for Liam to make his move.

A long moment later he felt long, skilled fingers gently stroking at his entrance, barely easing inside. He closed his eyes and sighed, relaxing into the touch. Slowly a slippery finger slipped inside him and his mind wandered at the sensation...how long has it been? too long...as he willed himself to relax further.

Despite his inexperience, Liam needed no coaching. He was gentle and attentive, naturally reading Damien’s reactions and knowing exactly how far he could push him to make him squirm with pleasure without any pain. He pulled his hips up off the bed, leaning over to kiss his neck as he rolled on the condom and positioned himself at his warm, wet entrance. They moaned together as he pushed inside, agonizingly slow, stopping only when he was buried completely inside. “Oh god,” he groaned, “that feels...Damien...” 

Damien thrust his hips against Liam, taking pride in leaving him speechless, setting a firm and steady pace. He felt a strong hand tangle in his hair, gently but firmly pulling his head back before leaning down to kiss his neck again, harder this time, Liam’s teeth nipping at his throat and then his ear before he straightened himself back up, taking control of the pace and slamming harder into him.

All sense of control over the situation evaporated as Damien’s mouth started spilling loud cries and moans that seemed to come from some deep and hidden place within him. “You like that?” Liam asked, his voice breathy and sexy in a way that sent a shudder down Damien’s spine, but he couldn’t form the words to answer, his attention focused only on the feeling of Liam deep inside him, setting all his nerves on edge.

Abruptly he pulled out, and Damien let out a strangled cry at the loss of him. “Y-you didn’t...” he stammered.

“You first,” Liam asserted as he flipped him onto his back and sank down between his legs, his tongue tracing slow circles around his dripping cock.

“Oh, shit, it’s not going to take...” his words dissolved into moans once more as Liam took his whole length into his mouth, undeterred by his own clumsy gagging. Almost immediately his entire body quaked with his orgasm, gasping in surprise as Liam stayed put, unflinching, sucking back every drop. He met his gaze for a moment before squeezing his eyes shut, too overwhelmed to hold eye contact. He whimpered into the pillow as Liam slid back up his body, kissing along his jaw until he landed once more at his lips, leaving soft, lazy kisses there.

“Hey there,” Liam whispered with a smile as Damien finally managed to regain his senses and meet his eyes. “How did I do?”

“You’re incredible,” he answered, pulling his head down to his chest and hugging it there. “Sorry I...I just need a minute and then I can take care of you.”

“Take your time.” Liam kissed his still-heaving chest, circling a finger lazily against his firm stomach. “I’m in no hurry for this to end.”

————————————

Riley and Drake walked along the river at the spot she’d told him was the most romantic in the city, hand in hand.

“What does this mean for you and Liam?” Drake asked, his eyes downcast. Riley sighed.

“I don’t know. I don’t know if there’s any hope of us being together for real now.”

Drake stopped walking, taking both her hands in his. “Is that still what you want?”

“I don’t...” she trailed off, noticing a dark figure approaching them. “Hey, we should go.”

Drake glanced around, concerned. “Is everything OK?”

Her eyes were still glued to the mysterious figure, trying to make out his face, but he was still too far away and...was he wearing a mask? She was a glint of steel in the moonlight as he pulled something out of his coat.

“Run!”

[mfackenthal]

MFackenthal: A Week in Reviews

Welcome all to the first ever “MFackenthal: A Week in Reviews” - the post where I list everything I have read this week and provide a short description to entice you to read them too.  This is where we learn that I spend too much time on tumblr.  As this is my first post like this – if you have suggestions for how I should do this post in the future – please let me know.  I consider this blog always to be a “work in progress” and I welcome ideas for how best to organize things so to be better for you my dear readers!

What follows is a list of the fics I reviewed this week.  Quick note: This list does not include headcanon posts, ABC posts or any post that wasn’t directly related to a story or storyline.  This also only includes reblogs and not work I “liked” but wasn’t able to provide commentary on.

This means that if you want to find out what I specifically thought about each chapter, that can be found on my blog.  To more easily search my blog, search the phrase “mfackenthal reviews ________” and fill in the blank with the blog name.  IE “mfackenthal reviews maxattack-powell” to find the work I reblogged specifically by @maxattack-powell.

In case it’s not obvious: I recommend ALL of these fics and ALL of these authors.  I cannot say enough about the fabulousness that is these authors. 

The list is organized by love interest.

If the “read more” works then you’ll find the full list under the cut.

Maxwell:

1.  Maxwell gets an education – MC can thank Adelaide later … 

Wild Thoughts by @pbchoicesobsessed

Liam:

2. Does Liam even know what love is?  Catch up with me – I think parts 7 and maybe even 8 are out now.  I’ll be reading those this week for sure!

You Have Never Loved Me Part 4 by @kawairinrin

You Have Never Loved Me Part 5 by @kawairinrin

You Have Never Loved Me Part 6 by @kawairinrin

3. When a couple isn’t on the same page about children … when does separate pages turn into different books altogether?  When mistakes are made how do we come back from that?  I cannot wait to see where this series goes next!

An Heir (Part 16) by @viktoriapetit

An Heir (Part 18) by @viktoriapetit

An Heir (Part 19) by @viktoriapetit

An Heir (Part 20) by @viktoriapetit

4. Honestly – I live and breathe for this series!  I am currently so pissed at Liam. 

TSS: Part 35 by @choicesfanatic86

TSS: Part 36 by @choicesfanatic86

TSS: Part 37 (1/2) by @choicesfanatic86

TSS: Part 37 (2/2) by @choicesfanatic86

5. If I’m pissed at Liam in the TSS series, I am head-over-heals in love with him in this series.  If this was the Liam of the books, Drake would not stand a chance.  

If only: Chapter 9 by @choicesfanatic86

If Only: Chapter 10 by @choicesfanatic86

6. This story is about Liam and MC, but damn if I didn’t fall in love with Drake in this one. 

Terrible Love – Chapter 15 by @confessionsofabrokegirl

Terrible Love – Epilogue by @confessionsofabrokegirl

7. The conversation you didn’t know you needed MC to have with Liam.  It’s so beautiful! 

Wait by @mrswalkerwrites

8. If MC is gonna be the mistress – she should have some fun – and she does!  It’s not all fun though ...

The King’s Mistress by @captainkingliam

The King’s Mistress – The Duchy – Pt. 3 by @captainkingliam

9.  All the Scandals that the King gets to see … 

Arrangements by @hellospunkiebrewster

10.  I’m still mourning the loss of the corgi.  This story in three parts is sad, it’s angsty, it’s going to set us up for so much more drama.  

When Three Became Two by @laniquelove

When They Give Up by @laniquelove

When They’ve Had Enough by @laniquelove

11. Husband and wife swap lives. Let’s just say she does a better job at being him than the reverse.  A very humorous read.  

Freaky Friday – Part 1 by @xxrainbowprincessxx

Freaky Friday – Part 2 by @xxrainbowprincessxx

12. If you haven’t started this series yet, it’s time to do so.  Then start whining for more with me! Find out what happens with MC leaves, Liam is hurt, Olivia gets a little too much power, and Cordonia moves towards democratization ...

We the People Ch. 6 – A Dinner Party by @captainkingliam

Drake:

13. I am absolutely in love with this series.  In the AU, everyone is working at an elementary school.  I need more ASAP @larryssunflower!

TRR AU – Teachers (part three) by @larryssunflower

14. It’s built into the title – this is Everything You Ever Wanted. It’s funny.  It’s creative.  Read it.

Secrets – Part 12 of “Everything You Ever Wanted” by @lizeboredom

Foreign Affairs – Part 13 of “Everything You Ever Wanted”  by @lizeboredom

14.  This is another series that I live and breathe for.  Catch up and learn one more reason why I hate Constantine!

Queen of My Heart – Chapter 19 by @walkerismychoice

Queen of My Heart – Chapter 20 by @walkerismychoice

15.  I live for the snarky teasing that Drake provides as written by @tmarie82.

Fireside Games (Part 1) by @tmarie82

16.  Did I mention that I love Drake and snark?  Drake gets the last word in this fic … 

Idle Threats by @lizeboredom

17. An AU where Drake met MC first and while he was in college … I can’t wait to see where this goes!

Bonfire by @traeumerinwitzhelden  

18.  When Drake is fluffy my heart melts. 

3 AM by @drakewalkerwhipped

19. A Poly story where Savannah is less than supportive.

Ours Forever by @bobasheebaby

Conflict by @bobasheebaby

The Blow Up by @bobasheebaby

Bastien:

20. A slow burn that is anything but slow.  Check this series out and you may never see Bastien quite the same way again … 

More Than This – Part Seven by @honeylightningambition

More Than This – Part Eight by @honeylightningambition

Leo:

21. Liam and Leo fall for the same girl ... so far only one of them has admitted it ... Catch up on this series and cheer Leo on with me. 

Duties of a Prince – Chapter 17 by @theroyalweisme

22.  Catch up on this series and help me decide if I want the father to be Liam or Leo … 

The Waterfall, part 7 of The Other Brother Series by @captainkingliam

The Test, part 8 of The Other Brother Series by @captainkingliam

Original Characters:

23. Okay – if I had to choose a favorite of the week – this would be my favorite.  Of course, this piece was written for me and makes me character in the world of A Prince of the Sea as written by @captainkingliam.  This references the only fic I have ever written and may be the only fic I ever write.  (We’ll see.)  I still claim what I wrote was more support than fic.  You can read it here: The Case of the Maligned Prince. Luca sends me my favorite flowers.  I love you, @captainkingliam!

The Case of the Maligned Prince – Luca Tribute by @captainkingliam

24. I love Luca!  This is the series about Luca.  I’m the president of a fanclub about Luca and his siblings. Obviously, I’m invested in this story and think you should be too.  In case you don’t know, Luca is the oldest son of Riley and Liam and this story is about his social season.

A Prince of the Sea – Chapter 9 by @captainkingliam

A Prince of the Sea – Chapter 10 by @captainkingliam

A Prince of the Sea – Chapter 11 by @captainkingliam

Damien:

 25. I know these were listed about but it’s a crossover.  So I’ll simply repeat what I said above: It’s built into the title – this is Everything You Ever Wanted. It’s funny.  It’s creative.  Read it. 

Secrets – Part 12 of “Everything you Ever Wanted” by @lizeboredom

Foreign Affairs – Part 13 by @lizeboredom

26. Damien gets played by MC.  Win win really.

Tell Me You’re Mine by @mrsnazario1223

27.  Romantic comedy meets realism in this beautiful fic. 

The Moment by @mrswalkerwrites

Chris:

28. When MC feels guilty for spending time with Nathan … 

Wake Me From This Nightmare by @darley1101

29. If you love Chris and haven’t yet found the better more thorough recount of The Freshman as written by @maxattack-powell, then today is your day!  This chapter highlights the way Chris and MC support each other.  I love it.  You’ll also get just a little time with another OC who I love: Ethan. 

The Freshman 2-8a: The Hospital by @maxattack-powell

30. Chris struggles with the “no strings attached” line he has given MC … 

Caught During the Storm: Part 3 … Out Came the Sun … by @emerald-bijou

Seth:

31.  When one Minah is mad at Seth … he finds comfort with a different Minah.

Lucky by @lizeboredom

Kenna x Val

32.  Chapter 2 of 23 about the Queens of Stormholt.  I’m a bit behind on reviewing this work, but I think we’re up to chapter 9.  I’ll be reviewing this week, if I can.  Catch up with me.  If you read The Crown and The Flame – or even if you didn’t.  It’s time for us to revisit it through this series. 

The Queens of Stormholt: Chapter 2 by @kennaxval

note: Another big thanks to @drivenbyfantasy for creating the graphic.  She and many others (notably: @maxattack-powell, @captainkingliam, @theroyalweisme, @trianiasti, @queencatherynerhys, @tmarie82, and @lizeboredom) helped me think through what this post would look like each week.  Thank you to all of you for your help and to any of you who read this!

One final note:  I reblogged 56 fics this week.

Yes, I have a problem. No, I don’t (yet) want help.

Last, but not least, on the off chance that I missed a fic that you know I reblogged, my apologies! It was unintentional and is not a reflection on you, but upon my inability to maintain my own blog.  Also, if a link or a tag doesn’t work - I am sorry! My excuse:  56 links. 

[callmetippytumbles]

Thoughts on THOTs, TRR Book 3, Chapter 3: Sometimes Petty Ain’t Enuff

This week’s THOTs were king of a drag to get through. I can’t put my finger on why.  Maybe I want to focus more energy on my fanfics.  Maybe I was not given enough opportunities for petty as I required when being asked to deal with A Demon.  Maybe I was feeling pretty meh about this chapter as a whole.  Lord knows.  I have been like:

Issa mood and a lifestyle.  When it comes to this chapter.

You guys deserve better than this.  I thought I was better than this.  I am not. Bullshit and lies.

So the chapter opens in the boutique with Maxwell and Bertrand.  Look at how far we have fallen.  Last week I was being greeted by my love, and this week I have to be stank with Bertie and Ernie Maxwell.  Halle, per the usual, stays asking the real ass questions:

When DO I get to see my duchy and why aren’t we going over therre?

I don’t want this.  I would like a Plan B.  Halle continues to press the pertinent questions.  

It’s like she does not want to have to grovel in front of this raggedy heifer who stepped to her crazy at her own party.  For the why Bertrand? Why are you trying to make it seem as if I can’t get ANYONE else?

That doesn’t cover the Demon piece, Bertrand. We could get someone else.  Like Kiara.  Kiara would be dope.  She is excellent in court, has connections to the press, is driven, can speak multiple languages.  Plus Kiara is so skilled A Demon made Kiara her second in command.  Why not her? Oh PB made sure she got knifed up during the Homecoming Ball so that I have to let Bertrand continue with this bullshit.

Well, I can give you guys that.  Remember how that Demon spun intentional psychological fuckery and downgraded that to hazing with no comeuppance?

Again, Halle keeps asking the real questions:

Yeah, the bitch likes green and black, but that does not answer the question I put before you.  Why would IT help us?  Maxwell and Bertrand don’t want to think about that question.  They want to dress you up to appeal to Slytherin them peoples in Fydelia and Champagne Mami.

Da alphet o da wheek!

So not only is Halle going to have to grovel to a motherfucking Demon to offer it a job IT does not motherfucking need like it’s the only motherfucking person who can help us.  Halle has to do all of that in Cordonian Fashion Nova thotwear.

Do we really have to do this? If not A Demon we can get someone else.  Liam has like a whole fugging team of press people.  Why can’t I get one of them? Or a recommendation from one of them to get someone like one of them.  I would rather have Chance the Rapper Berry be my press secretary.

Also, I do not think that Fashion Nova thotwear is going to get a Demon to be like “Yeah, let me get a job working for the THOT that stole my man and crown.” Halle agrees.

She is smiling though because while the dress isn’t winning A Demon over, she still likes thotwear and that will win Liam over.  I will take the teensiest morsel that I can get.

Before I can show off my teeny tiny dress to My King, Bertrand, continues to heap on the shit.  I have other goals besides intentionally failing to convince a Demon that IT needs a job so that we can get a Plan B.  We have to persuade Champ Mami to come to our wedding and bring her mans as well.  Halle:

PB:

Halle is also confused as to why we are seeing this man for the first time today.  She also is like “hus-WHOM?”

Adelaide acts like she doesn’t have a husband because she doesn’t.  She has an arrangement with a sponsor.  Sponsors are not there to give things like love, emotional support, vitamin D.  Those things are outsourced since Champ Mami will not go without.  Especially her vitamin D.  She needs it to live and thrive.  It makes sense to me that she doesn’t like this dude.  Halle still has to care if this stingy dude sits in the pews while she marries her king.

Bertrand also makes a point to say that Champagne Mami and her sponsor are on the outs. Me:

Bertrand suggests talking to them separately and learning information to benefit this whack ass cause.  Halle is like:

Bertrand:

Me:

So not only do I have to beg this Demon to take a job IT does not need, do it while wearing Slytherin’s Fashion Nova collab, I also have to be Iyanla to these rich people?

After the boutique, we finally are on our way to the depths of Hades Champagne’s Mami’s house.

Just before we brace ourselves for the bullshit, Halle has the first of her few interactions with Liam. Liam:

Me:

I mean I would have a lot on my mind. I have to brown nose to a beast… Halle though is better than me because instead of like taking a moment to get steeped in feelings and butthurt is trying to get information on Godfrey.  Really, PB? They can’t even be nice and give me this Godfrey:

Much rather be talking to him than some bitter-ass Brit who doesn’t give a fuck about his wife, or her home.  FML. Anyway, Liam does not have much to offer on The Sponsor other than he married Champagne Mami for political reasons and likes titles and shits on fun.  Basically the opposite of the Champagne Champion who loves fun and mess.  I can understand why the dick and the other components of a life partner are outsourced.  

While Halle is attempting to get in the spirit, she isn’t entirely above a dig.

The dig does not make this any easier though. Liam:

Because you will be by my side right? Liam:

BULLSHIT BALL TIME!

It is not even a second into this, and Regina is dragging Champagne Mami.

Champagne Mami isn’t a punk and can serve some back.  

Not too much because she knows her cousin is the queen, but enough. Damn Schumrda Qween is a savage.  If I didn’t like Champagne Mami so much, I would salute her.  I am already torn.

When I was talking to @lizzybeth1986, she pointed out Champ Mami is doing Regina a favor by hosting this party.  That is a substantial point.  Right now, the nobility is not fucking with the royal family because they do not want to get the Drake/Bastien/Justin/Kiara treatment.  Adelaide not only agrees to host the King, her petty ass cousin Regina, who still take shots at her despite already being queen and basically winning, the royal staff, the man who rejected your child because he was done and the woman who he rejected your child for AND her friends. That is a lot to ask Gina.  Then after Adelaide does all of this shit, no one shows up and Regina is still making an effort to ROAST her.  I feel for Adelaide.  I really do.

Next to Champ Mami is this stiff AF dude.  That is her sponsor husband, Godfrey most definitely not Gao.  I can feel the stick up his ass from here.

Maxwell is like magic friendship dust will fix this.  I am like:

Halle is desperate, so she buys in I guess.  I mean, this is a high ass first hurdle.  Halle will take whatever.  She then goes to A Demon to get laughed at so that she can fail and Bertrand will have to let a Plan B happen. Demon:

Well, at least Halle is a duchess, Countess of Hades Fydelia.  Halle is kind enough not to point this out. I feel otherwise:

There was a petty option, I took a petty option.  I have no desire to be a better person.  Not like it will matter anyway. A Demon does not even take the bait. Why not just twist the knife deeper PB?  A Demon is over this shit too:

Halle needs to quickly fail this fuckass mission, so she asks A Demon if it wants a job.  As predicted A Demon is like:

Me:

Halle, just to say that she really tried:

Demon:

Me:

OHWELLITRIED!

Halle:

Also Halle:

After Halle’s deliberate failure, she looks to her friends and fiance for comfort and support.  It’s a difficult time for her.  Her fiance is MIA.  Well, Liam just wants to sleep alone.  Hana does point out that Liam is trying to talk to the other nobles who did risk their lives to be seen rockin’ with the royal family tonight.  Halle:

I kind of picture this event for Halle being pretty eye-opening regarding getting a taste of what actually working with Liam is like.  There may be times where she would prefer him to be by her side, and she would look, and he isn’t there.  This wouldn’t bother Liam so much because he is used to this.  He grew up in this life, so this isn’t an issue for him.  Halle didn’t. Also, she is beyond new to her.  Liam could have been a little more invested in being present for Halle during a difficult task.  I know Halle technically asked to do this solo, but he should have known better than to take her at her word for something like this.  Maybe checked in.  Now Halle has to kick you out of bed and make herself horny and mad.  Great job husbando!  Additionally, it would have been nice to see what Liam was doing behind the scenes while Halle had to eat crow.  

Anyway, at least Halle’s friends are on her side. Maxwell and Hana:

Me:

Halle:

Drake is unimpressed by A Demon’s party.  Why he should be? It’s a buffet.  I expected better from your peeples Satan.  He is unimpressed by most parties that have fancy food and booze that isn’t whiskey.  At least his simple tastes ensure his loyalty to Halle.  

Nope. Spoke too soon.  Drake is all about that pasta because its man food and hesa man and rah!  Halle still eats the food because she obviously did not read the Count of Monte Cristo.  If Halle did, she would know that skipping the food would be an insult to communicate that she does not fuck with that demon over there.  Take a page from Schmurda Qween or even Olivia.  Halle though is not above free food so she too sells herself out.

Because this party is not shitty enough, who else but Neville to take things from worse to worser.  At least it is just Neville.  Drake runs into him with a plate of pasta.  Neville ignores Drake at first and focuses on Halle. Neville presents it as congratulations, it becomes super obvious that it actually a vehicle for a barrage of backhanded compliments. Halle is like:

Drake on the other hand:

Drake will jump in front of a bullet for you, cuss someone out if they call you out your name, but his ride or die stops at pasta.  I can take that.  Neville did not like that Drake, a commoner, had the nerve to buck to him crazy.  He is big mad.  So he starts talking down to Drake.  The whole tirade is trash, but then Neville goes too far:

Me:

Drake is about to go full “Knuck if You Buck” on this dude, but Halle pulls him back. Like any other dude with too much privilege and not enough punches to the face, he still continues to try it.

I am like:

This party is shit anyway.  Let it come to violence!  This fuckboy deserves.  Hana intervenes and knows how to end things quickly and nonviolently.  Apparently, Neville not only is absolutely ain’t shit, but he is also a freeloader:

So you don’t want to support me, Our King, but you are just coming on this tour to find a bedwarmer? If you don’t… Hana who is too good for this world suggests trying to invite this bastard to freeload at my wedding as well as the Unity/Begging Tour.

Drake has had enough and excuses himself.  Halle being done and it’s been a while since PB has held their hand out for diamonds follows him.  Of course, there is a diamond scene with Drake, for 20 diamonds, you can teach him how to dance.  Drake wants to learn because since he cannot go full Hulk on Neville and send him to his maker, he figures getting 3 10’s on Dancing With the Stars is a good way to get back at Neville.  If you are petty like me, the Drake roasting begins now.  If you are not petty, the roasting is later.  Halle is petty, and she has some moments.  

Drake:

Halle:

Now that Halle is done, she teaches Drake some moves.  If you are romancing Drake, this scene is much more romantic.  For those of us that aren’t its symbolizes that our messy, hoeing days are done.  Pour one out for our messy heaux pasts and 30 diamond scenes I will never forget.  That thigh grab move is EVERYTHING.

Drake wants to try dancing because he wants to step up for Liam (he wants to step up for you if he is romancing you) and be seen as more than Liam’s Professional Best Friend.  Halle teaches Drake the Cordonian Waltz.  I am like “Drake is not ready for that, start easy with the Lean Back and work your way up.”  This echoes a little to when Hana taught Halle, but I found it more echoing back to when Halle dances with Drake during the Coronation Ball.  During that dance, Halle does all of the work and Drake kind of just stands there and doesn’t engage with the dancing.  His being willing to do that much is him trying.  This time Drake makes a point to actually learn the steps and be an active participant as opposed be reluctantly present.  Halle points out that his active participation is essential:

There is a moment where Drake and Halle are holding each other close.  It could have been very messy and full of tension, but since I am not romancing Drake and TRR heaux season is over it isn’t.

Back at the Bullshit Ball, Bertrand is looking for us.  I have made no headway with convincing A Demon that the best way to bounce back from being a two-time loser for the crown is to get a job working for the woman who is responsible for defeat #2.  Bertrand is not trying to discuss Plan B.  Me:

Apparently, it’s time to talk to Champagne Mami and Her Sponsor. Regina is talking to Adelaide and Liam is talking to Godfrey not Gao.  Me and Halle are very whatever about it, but I guess we must try.  I start off easy because a wedding is basically a party and Champagne Mami loves parties.  Also, this victory could set up the momentum for another victory.  This is a slam dunk, right?

Regina and Adelaide are busy going in.  They were ready to be like:

Halle interrupts that tense conversation to invite Champagne Mami to the wedding. Champagne Mami:

Halle, you fucked up girl.  Don’t lead with the wedding, lead with the party.  Anyway, Champagne Mami can’t always prioritize drinking top-shelf liquor for free and seeking new dick.  Sometimes you do have to care about things like your fucked up rich family problems.  Champ feels a way that her baby isn’t even trying to let Champ comfort IT with booze, rom-coms and crass talk about men.  Me:

I would love to do ALL of those things with you! Why can’t you be my mom?  Also, of course, A Demon does not appreciate those things.  Those are good, fun things. A Demon cannot understand good and fun things because light and darkness do not mix.

Adelaide wants to be a mother and be there for her child. She wants her child to put herself first for a change. A Demon has been doing that.  How much champagne have you been drinking?  She also wants her child to open up to some people.

Leave my friends out of this.  I am sure A Demon could summon up some similarly demonic buddies using a pentagram or whatever.

After that Champ Mami shoves us away to enjoy this terrible party.  Now we have to talk to The Sponsor.  He is right now talking to my MIA fiance.  Liam:

Once Liam makes his quick exit, Halle is left to speak to this stick in the mud, who doesn’t like her with no support.  Halle is off to a great start by messing up his title, the one thing he cares about.  The Sponsor does not let up.  He starts out the way A Demon starts out in Chapter 19.  

A Demon is definitely its father’s child.

At least he likes your Slytherin Fashion Nova thotwear.

Then he wants to call you out your name, but this is the one time where the petty comes in handy.  When you remind him of your title:

Birdman:

With that win, Halle presses on.  She invites him to the wedding, but Godfrey not Gao is like:

Halle:

Well, all three of those are excellent reasons for this man not to attend your wedding, Halle.  You stole things from his child, he does not give a single fuck about Cordonia, and he is afraid of his in-name-only wife.  I focus on the big one, you know, that Halle straight disrespected his child.  

His beef with you immediately spills into his beef with his wife.

Me @ “daughter’s defeat”:

He leaves, and goodness can enter our lives again in the form of Hana.  Before we can call it a night, Neville decides to ask an uninterested Demon to dance with him.  Drake is like:

So a ballroom dance battle begins.  Since this battle is being instigated by men, things escalate quickly.  Neville is outchea doing dramatic dips.  Drake is not going to let some bitch wearing Roger Moore’s ugly suit show him up.  Nevermind the fact that like 20 taps ago we just taught him how to do more than the running man, which was still a little complicated for him.  Doesn’t matter, Drake wants to end this.  Halle knows what to do: a lift.

Um, Halle, this is not Dirty Dancing.  Baby and Johnny fucked the lift a whole bunch of times before the end of the movie.  DRAKE’S SHOULDER IS ALL FUCKED UP BECAUSE OF THAT TIME HE TOOK A BULLET FOR YOU!  PB is gonna have that arm just fall off out of nowhere.  Drake is unsure, but Halle is doing it.  Since you know, plot, they pull it off.  

This leaves Neville pissed.  How dare someone who wears denim tuxedos and has no respect for plaid make him look bad!  He can cry in a corner about his inadequacy later.  

Luckily, Hana suggests that we can get A Demon talking about getting her drunk.  Look at Hana and these excellent ideas.  I would much sooner use her intellect to cook up a Plan B that does not involve asking A Demon to work, but PB is insisting on this.  You can choose any of your friends to invite her to play.  I tried Drake thinking IT would refuse, but IT will say yes to whomever.  A Demon would rather drink with us as opposed to drinking alone.

Because PB does not have enough of our money, they make a point to demand some now.  Halle:

There is a book?

Anyway, the drinking game is Cordonia’s Best, where you create superlatives and then nominate the people you are playing with to get them.  The winner has to drink.  

A Demon still mad stays hatin’, starts with Halle.  

However, this quickly becomes a Drake roast.  Hana delivers a masterful read:

Me:

Drake tries to go in on me:

I see how it is, I teach your simple-ass how to dance, and this is how you repay me.  I see how it is.  Halle continues to shade Drake for the rest of the night. 

Maxwell agrees.

Drake:

Like?

A Demon finished her drink and Maxwell, and Drake grabs more booze. Leaving Hana and Halle alone with A Demon.  Halle who is better than me attempts empathy.  It does not know empathy.  So IT can know compassion as long as you dampen the evil with booze.

I almost felt for IT.  I can understand what it is like to Tracy Flick level of ambition and lose.  However, I cannot get past that time you said you wanted to psychologically break my best friend for fun:

So:

A Demon is like:

Then:

How can you read that and still not feel bad for A Demon?  

I can understand what IT is going through and at the same time would like for it to fuck itself now and for the rest.  PB wants to force this redemption narrative like my feelings do not matter. Demon:

Welp! I tried.

The game end and everyone return to the main hall to see Champagne Mami go AWF!  Her fucks are gone, her booze is gone, and she is done.  

The Sponsor wants to keep it down, but Addy is not having it on tonight. A Demon joins in.

Halle:

Me:

What? Let those rich people hash it out.  I don’t need to get involved.

Maxwell:

Me:

Maxwell pushes you, and you have to go in there like Iyanla. Halle:

Not that moment.  (But you should watch it, it’s funny!)

Well PB says that I have to come in on some magical negro/manic pixie dream girl shit and get y’all to sing the “I Love You” song from Barney so you can come to my wedding even though I don’t want you to be there.

Demon:

Me:

Excuse me? I broke nothing.  Sure I disrespected you, undermined you at every opportunity, embarrassed you after you asked me not to, got your mama to undermine you with me, but you signed up for that the moment you put that Liam could have me on the side as part of the deal.  Also, you fucked things up all by your lonesome.  

Halle:

Bitch, you would not have even gotten a chance if Connie did not come through with the bullshit at the eleventh and a half hour so that Liam could choose you when we BOTH know that he was gonna pick me from jump bitch! From jump!  And you fucking knew it because if you secure in your chances Demon, you would not have been bargaining with him in the middle of the night and agreeing to a side chick in the first place!

Oh, you want to forget that little nugget of 24 Karat fact!  

Champagne Mami co-signs but Godfrey is not mystified by Halle’s Iyanla.  Iyanla Halle gets him together too.

Me:

I am tired of this.  I hate that the MC literally had to be a family therapist to these people who can afford a family therapist that can get them together.  I hate that this was done to facilitate a redemption to someone who does not need it.  I hate that Liam left me to do ALL of the heavy liftings on this.  If Halle had to be Iyanla, why can Liam put on his Dr. Phil pants?

Halle fixes this family.  Champagne Mami will come to your wedding with her sponsor.

Well, Y’all know what happens next.

Chapter ends with the worst wake up call ever:

Random Thoughts:

Why am I being made to care about the family squabbles of these people? Is the Unity Tour a Halle does her best Iyanla tour?  All of these families could just hire Iyanla directly.  I know Iyanla works with Oprah, but she isn’t above money, and those families have money. 

I am going to riot if this happens for ALL of the tour. 

There was way too little of My King in this chapter.  Like he really was like “U Gud” and left me to fend for myself. I think this chapter was written more for people who are not with Liam in mind.  I don’t see how to divide and conquer is a good strategy when we are fighting for our country as well as our union.  Shouldn’t we show them more union? 

I hate this storyline so intensely.  Like: I didn’t think I could hate a storyline as much as I hated Bertrand and his baby mama drama, but this is taking me to new levels of hatred. 

Since we are going to Penelope’s next week, I have a feeling we will be dealing with PTSS.  She has a history of anxiety, and she was at the Homecoming Ball where she saw her bestie get knifed.  We will definitely talk about how that affected her next week.

Also, I do not ship Hana with A Demon.  A Demon said that she looked like a Disney princess, now they have a lurve story? FOH!  A Demon set out to emotionally traumatize Hana, FOR FUN.  I can’t get past that.  I know a lot of people would say that Hana is over it.  My response to that is Hana is over the hazing thing.  Hana did not hear A Demon say that she wanted to break her.  She was being escorted to the train by Drake.  Halle (MC) heard that and we as the readers know that.  I don’t think Hana would want to hookup with someone knowingly or unknowingly who wanted to psychologically abuse her.

I am going to go to my fanfics where they love me and I get all the Liam I want and no Demon.

[dangerousfoxfest]

Collide Chapter 3-The Journey

Chracters belong to Pixleberry. 

Hi everyone. So here is chapter 3. This was meant to be a trillogy, however it is more likely to be into 5 parts to give the story some justice. I promise the answers are coming and I hope worth the wait. I hope you all enjoy this chapter. I would like to thank @blackcatkita for the advice and support of the last 24 hours,for a newbie writer it is very much appreciated. 

Summary: This storyline takes place after Tariq was not found and the MC name was never cleared. Liam has received news that Madeline who is Queen, has been involved in a car accident in America. 

2615 words

“Sir” Bastien said gently shaking Liam arm to wake him. “We’re getting ready to land”

Liam’s eyes darted open. He had slept for hours, dreamless, waking to the agony that he possibly has lost the love of his life for ever, and it wasn’t his wife.

“Any news?” Asked Liam as he began stretching and coming around.

“Yes Sir, the press are aware of the accident and Queen Madeline and Lady Riley have been involved. They are to put it mildly having a field day with speculative assumptions of why they are together in the car.” Replied Bastien.

“What about the fatality?” Are they aware? Liam asked.

“No, that news for now is contained, however I am unsure for how much longer.” Bastien responded. “The press are waiting in the airport for a statement from you sir.”

“Has Regina sent a copy of one?” Asked Liam

“Yes, she has three versions have been written depending on what developments took place, however none have mentioned Lady Riley, as at the time we did not know she was involved” said Bastien.

“That’s probably for the best” Liam replied, “I mean we don’t have much to go on there”

Bastien straightened up and nodded to the king before making his way to front of the plane, to finalise the necessary details Liam would need.

Liam got up grabbing his bag to fresh up in the bathroom before landing. Closing the bathroom door behind him, he looked in the mirror. He looked like hell he thought. The press will eat up the idea of a king devastated with worry about his beloved Queen, except he couldn’t help shake the feeling and guilt, it’s all a lie….all of it. He lost Lady Riley three years ago, but he had hope somehow it would work out. Hell, it was one of the reasons he put off having an heir to the throne. But now realising the ideal future he still dreamed off can all be gone….forever. Liam began questioning if the lie was ever worth it, at this moment in time, it did not feel like it. Liam’s thoughts were startled apart when there was a knock on the bathroom door. “Liam?” Drake called from the other side. “We’re getting ready to land you need to take your seat”.

“Be right out” Liam shouted back. With that he left the bathroom making his way to his seat, clasping his seatbelt looking straight ahead facing a very uncertain future.

Three years ago 

“Your what?” Olivia asked in utter shock

“Pregnant; with child; bun in the oven” Riley replied sarcastically.

“Enough with the sarcasm” Olivia responds calling Riley out. “So, Liam is happy to let you go knowing this?” She questions.

“Liam doesn’t know” Riley sighs.

“For the love of….this just gets better and better!” Olivia retorts “So you think what….. he won’t notice at any point he will have a child running around”

“I don’t know what to think” Riley responds before flopping herself on the sofa. The resounding jolt made Riley’s stomach flip before she ran immediately to the bathroom to be sick.

“Riley, you have to tell him” Olivia reasoned when Riley walked out of the bathroom.

“Then what?” Riley questions.

“He won’t marry her, that’s what!” Olivia answers.

“Exactly!” Replies Riley. “he will break of the engagement for the American who had an affair with a Nobel during the social season.”

“But” Olivia attempts to interrupt Riley now futile as Riley continues

“the press headlines, I can see it now “is King Liam the father of Lady Riley’s baby?”  Do you know the damage this could do to Liam’s reputation if the public and press knew we were having an affair during the engagement tour? It would ruin the monarchy no one would trust him…I won’t be responsible for the collapse of his reign.”

“Well I think Constantine has a hand in the blame for that one” Olivia replied. “Had he not meddled, both you and Liam would be heading back from a successful engagement tour, looking forward to a stronger monarchy and reign. So, it’s not all down to you.”

“Nevertheless Olivia” Riley responded “the situation is what it is, finding Tariq was my only and last hope for this to work out as I wanted….a family….Liam and I with this baby”

“I still think you should tell him, it is not your call to make or assume his decisions for him” replies Olivia. “It’s his child” she says with one last attempt. “I mean It….if you don’t decide to tell him!....I WILL!”

Anger and fear immediately floods through Riley’s body “don’t you dare….I mean it….you can’t….” Riley can now feel herself beginning to panic, her breathing quickening and the room spinning, just the same as the night before. “I…can’t…..breathe” Riley says in a halted panicked voice.

“Riley” Olivia face becoming grave and her voice now once of concern “please you need to calm down…..breathe…..take a deep breath”

“You…….you……can….” Riley’s words cut short as the room darkens and she collapses into Olivia’s arms.

Present day.

The plane lands on the Runway. Liam could see that crowds of press gathered at the entrance of the airport. He knew they would bombard him with questions the answers of which he truly could not give. Liam gathered up his things ready to leave the plane. He glanced over to Adelaide unsure whether it was a good idea to approach her. Adelaide returned the look and nodded to him. Liam made his way over “Adelaide…I’m sorry”

“Liam, you have to realise she’s my daughter” replied Adelaide

“I know, I” Liam found it wasn’t wise to finish the words to that sentence without a rerun of the earlier argument between them. To hope that it wasn’t Madeline who died, would mean Riley would be lost forever, he knew Adelaide knew this too and in the end Liam felt it better to say “no matter what Adelaide, I’m here for you. Adelaide simply nodded to a Liam and continued to gather her things.

“Your Majesty your press statement” says Bastien handing Liam a piece of typed up paper as he leaves the plane.

Taking the piece of paper from Bastien Liam leaves the plane waking down the stairs towards the hordes of waiting press. Drake, Liam, Adelaide and Bastien all walking alongside one another in unison, keeping their heads down, not giving much away.

 As they all made their way through the door into the airport, a flurry of flashbulbs and questions came at them, Liam felt it was as if time slowed down.

 “If you allow some quiet, I will read a statement” began Liam. “Last night the Cordonian Ambassador informed the Palace Queen Madeline has been involved in a Road Traffic Accident. The hospital staff have been working hard to provide the best care for the Queen. As you can imagine we are all very anxious to attend the hospital and an update will be provided in due course. Thank you” Liam and the group hurriedly moved off ignoring the questions shouted back to them. “Is the Queen dead?” One reporter shouts through the crowd noise. “Christ” Liam bristles at the question looking at Adelaide who was just about holding it together in the presence of the media. “we better hurry” he continues.

Three years ago 

Riley awoke when she was being wheeled into an ambulance with Olivia climbing in after her. Olivia what’s going on? Riley asked.

“You fainted that’s what” Olivia replied

“I’m fine, I don’t need to be in an ambulance” Riley responded.

“Like hell” Olivia scolded. “You obviously need to take better care of yourself, I mean look at you, less than 24 hours since you ended your relationship with Liam and you’re a mess.”

“I just didn’t get the chance to eat any breakfast” Replied Riley.

“Oh yeah! Missing breakfast explains why your wearing your pyjamas at 3pm, and you look like you not slept in a year” Olivia responds. “Face it, I’m right and your wrong”

“I’ll concede that today is not the best day for me, but really Olivia hospital?”

“Yes! If your insist on staying here, I have to know you can be trusted to look after this baby, after all it’s the child of a King.”

The paramedic on hearing this drops the blood pressure cuff he was going to place on Riley’s arm. “Olivia… don’t” Riley countered shaking her head. Picking the BP cuff up, he proceeded to take Riley’s vitals.

“140/90” the paramedic stated as he was depressing the BP cuff.  

“Is that okay?” Riley asked.

“Well it’s slightly higher than we would like, but it’s nothing to worry about usually, your doctor will keep a routine check on it to make sure it stays stable” he replies. “How far along are you?”

“I’m not sure” Riley replies looking down towards her hands avoiding looking up toward Olivia.

“For the lov…” Olivia exasperated voice now evident “Riley what do you mean you don’t know, please don’t tell me you haven’t seen a doctor?”

“No Olivia I haven’t….I have been rather busy you know hunting down photographers and chasing credit card numbers around the world you know” Riley retorted back.

“How far along do you think you are?” Asked the paramedic interrupting them both, the conversations between these two were by far the strangest he’s heard for a long time.

“Sorry?” Asked Riley leaving Olivia’s gaze and turning toward him.

“When was you last monthly period?” He replied

“Erm about 13 weeks ago” she muttered

“So late September?” He questioned

Riley slightly nodded in reply.

What seemed like forever to get there they both finally arrived at the hospital. The hospital looked quite grand, Riley looked at Olivia knowing she must have asked the paramedic to bypass the nearest one and take her to the best hospital in NYC. Olivia shrugged innocently. Riley taken through to the ER department and soon assessed by the triage nurse. “Just get you settled in and have a doctor come round and examine you, But first I am going to examine your vitals again” Riley nodded in response. Soon Riley was settled into a bed wearing a hospital gown. Shortly afterwards the doctor arrived. “Good evening Miss Holligan, I’m Dr Reaser. How are you feeling?”

I’m fine doctor Reaser, nothing to worry about, just didn’t eat breakfast that’s all” she replies.

“Well, your blood pressure is ever so slightly higher than we would like. Are you under any due stress at all?” Asks Dr Reaser.

Riley gives a snort and he raises an eyebrow to her. “Just burning the candle at both ends I suppose” she answers. “Yes, the paramedic mentioned you were discussing some travel you both had recently done.” He questions.

“Yes, you could say that” Olivia mutters, “just sightseeing” Riley responds quickly before Olivia can say any more.

“Well I am going to order some blood samples to be drawn, and we’ll need a urine sample too, I’ll order an ultra sound, make sure the baby is well.” He replies. 

While the nurse was working with Riley. Olivia left them alone to find a coffee shop in the grounds, she badly needed the caffeine injection into her system. Turning her phone on, she had a few missed calls and texts from the others asking if she was okay. She quickly sends a send to all text in response “yes everything is fine. Met an old friend while shopping went for dinner, will be back late. O.” The text was much easier than to lie to people at this moment. Besides she doesn’t even know if and what should be said. Olivia later returned to Riley with two coffees. “Not the best drink for a pregnant woman” Riley states as Olivia hands her a cup. “Oh shit! Your right, I’ll find you some wine instead” she replies “Olivia!” Riley’s responds, then both of them start laugh. It was a laugh needed to break the tension of the long day they both had.  

At that moment Dr Reaser Enters the room. “Miss Holligan good time to interrupt I hope, but we have your tests results.” Entering the room further standing next to Rileys bedside he continues “Your blood tests show you are a little dehydrated, so we would like to keep you in overnight and give you some IV fluids and be sure that your blood pressure remains stable.”

“Thank you doctor but I don’t think I could afford to stay here” replies Riley, “my health insurance wouldn’t cover this…”

“Nonsense” Olivia cutting off Riley in mid-sentence. “I have it covered, thank you doctor she will be staying” Riley was glaring at Olivia, who was deliberately ignoring the looks. 

“Good” replies Dr Reaser “we’ll get you settled in upstairs once I’ve done your ultrasound”

 A flurry of excitement flooded Riley this was the first time she would see her baby, then sadness filled her Liam should be here. A few short minutes Dr Reaser returned with the ultrasound equipment. “Now Miss Holligan” did the nurse explain we need you to have a full bladder for this, do you have one?” “Yes she did, and yes I have” Riley bristling at the question. “Good…Good” replies Dr Reaser. “Now we’ll get you comfortable, if you lie back” he continues and hands her some paper sheets “now use the this paper covering your lower half of your body, while lifting your gown up over your stomach” Riley does as she is asked “some cold gel” Dr Reaser warns as he spreads some lubricant gel over Riley’s lower stomach. “Ah here we are” Dr Riley proudly announces turning the screen towards Riley and Olivia. “Hears the heart and it’s beating beautiful, here you can hear it” whoosh whoosh whoosh the sound of the heartbeat filled the room. Tears began to fill Riley’s eyes. “From the growth measurements I would say your baby is around 12 weeks.” Dr Reaser added “everything is looking good….upstairs the OB doctor will discuss your pre-natal Care and get you booked into future appointments….. Okay?” Dr Reaser Smiled “Any questions?” He asked While handing Riley a picture of the baby during the scan. Riley shook her head signalling a no response while mesmerised looking at the scan picture. Her baby….Liam’s baby….their baby. She began to think for a moment could she keep this from him??? Turning her head towards Olivia, Riley solemnly says “your right he deserves to know.”

Present day.

Drake, Liam, Maxwell, Adelaide and Bastien make their way to the waiting car. On route to the hospital, Drake reaches in his pocket to grab his phone intending call Olivia letting her know they have arrived safely. Realising he forgot to switch his phone back on after charging on the plane when the battery drained. Drake switched his phone on. The car sounds filled with multiple beeps and pings coming from the phone as it booted up. Drake, Maxwell and Liam all looked at one another. Drake panicked thinking something was wrong with Thomas his three-month-old son he and Olivia have. She was never one to blow up his phone. Drake returned the call “Liv… what’s wrong is Thomas okay?....then what’s?.....yeah he’s next to me…..why?.....yeah we heard Holligan was in the car too…how weird is that?.....we haven’t heard about…..Liv….Liv you’re not making any sen…..” Drake held onto the other end of the phone listening intently his eyes widening. Liam and Maxwell clearly aware something was wrong. “HOW IN THE HELL C….” Drake halts mid-sentence. “Okay…okay…You should have told me Liv” Drake cuts of the call.

“What’s wrong? Liam asks Drake, “has Olivia heard anything?”

 “Liam” Drake sighs “we need to talk.”

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