#benjamin schreave

[ladyvivienneloyola]

Presenting Illea Illustrated’s Influential Individuals for The Elite Issue: The Elite Six featuring Prince Benjamin Schreave

@benjaminschreave, @danielle-leblanc, @gabriellapatterson, @darcyduncan, @opheliagardinier, @zara-flores, @ladyvivienneloyola 

Illea Illustrated, The Elite Issue

Heyo everyone, it looks like I’ve become my own personal magazine publishing company. ANYWAY, as a former illustrator for Illea Illustrated, I’ve always wanted to make a fancy magazine cover with all the Selected girls and well I considered this to be my last time and only opportunity to do this while I’m still around so ya know what? HERE IT ISSSSSSSSS. (just the cover tho HAHAHAHA) So yeah, I hope you guys like this(?) and it actually looks legit??? HAHAHAHAHAHAHA

[opheliagardinier]

hard to swallow

Here’s the second part of this challenge. It’s a bit choppy but well I’m running out of time.

Thank you @benjaminschreave Bri for the rp. It was fun and different, and hurt a lot to write at some points.

word count: 3017

I knew it was Ben before I even opened the door. I’d wanted to see him for the past few days but I wasn’t sure I was ready yet.

Ben looked rough with his hair messier than normal. His hands were deep in his pockets and his glasses did nothing to hide the dark circles beneath his eyes.

“Hi,” I mumbled, meeting his eyes for a moment then glancing away.

I opened the door wider and took a step back. Without saying anything else I walked to my bed to sit down, while he hesitated for a moment. Ben closed the door then shuffled over to my bed, keeping his distance. Ben didn’t meet my gaze at first as I expectantly looked up at him but then his eyes finally met mine.

For a moment I tried to search them to see what was going through his mind. If I knew him it was a million different things but he’d come to apologise.

“I’m sorry.” He said after nervously swallowing. “For the things I said. I... was stressed and took it out unfairly on Wyatt and you all. You didn’t deserve that.”

Understatement.

He had snapped so badly he’d dragged not only his brother into it but everyone else in the room.

“This is exactly what I told you would happen, Ben.” I frowned, letting out a huff of air, while he winced. “I knew that if you didn’t start letting people help you it was going to all come out at once- but at least you got to be honest about how you felt.”

The last bit sounded a bit harsh to my ears, but if he didn’t want me here- fine. He should have sent me home months ago. Maybe he should have sent each of us home and saved everyone the trouble.

“I know you were right.” He nodded, running a hand through his hair as a look of frustration crossed his face. “But- I wasn’t completely honest. Not about Wyatt or ending the Selection. I just... I was stupid and wanted him to leave me alone.”

I angrily shook my head. In the heat of the moment, people tended to be more truthful. Or at least I was… And just then I was afraid of what I might say- still without taking time to think I blurted out the first thing that came to mind.

“If you don’t want us here then just send us home.” One of my hands balled into a fist as I grabbed at my bed sheets. “Don’t lead us all on so you get to have fun messing around and manipulating us.”

My mom’s words echoed in my head. I didn’t want her to be right- but truth be told I was still sorting out what she’d said. And Ben’s outburst hadn’t helped a single bit. Somehow things had become more blurred and fuzzy.

“No no.” Ben gave me a pleading look, stepping closer. “I’m not doing that. I want you all here, I-“

Don’t. I didn’t want him near my right then. My judgement was clouded enough as it was. The closer he got the worse it would become. I needed to be as level-headed as I could- which was hard enough already.

“You mean more to me than you know. I want you to stay.” He added after letting out a breath.

“Stay as what exactly? Someone who just sits there and smiles and whose only job is to plan parties and have babies?” I shrugged then shook my head again. “Because it sure feels like that.”

I lied. It didn’t feel like that at all. But some part of me wondered if my mom could have been right. She only wanted what was best for me- and it was pretty apparent I wouldn’t be able to thrive in that environment. I would never feel fulfilled by being seen and not heard.

“God no Lia.” Ben reached out a hand for a split second then let it fall back to his side. “Haven’t you seen what my mother does? She helps people, service projects, counsels with my dad. Makes a difference. If-if I chose you, you’d have all those same opportunities.”

“Then why are you so set on changing me?” I exclaimed angrily, before softening my tone. “Because that’s what it feels like you’re always trying to do. And I’m not myself anymore.”

If anything I felt more myself with him, but at the same time, it was like I’d lost part of myself. I was less and more all at once.

“What?” He seemed shocked by my question. “I’ve never wanted to change you.”

“Are you sure about that?” I asked. “Because we both know I’m pretty far from what a princess should be.”

He pressed his lips together in anger. Part of me was relieved to see him undone that way. I’d always felt like I was the only one who ever had a temper- and seeing that side of him reminded me that he wasn’t perfect, which was something I’d desperately needed.

“I’ve never given you any indication that I like you any other way than exactly who you are,” Ben argued. “I don’t care if you’re not a typical princess, I care about you and our relationship. And from what I’ve understood you never cared much about what other people think.”

That was only partially true. I cared a great deal, just not in the way he thought.

“I care about what you think!” I half yelled- trying not to be too loud. The last thing I needed was for my maids to be in the room with that mess. “And maybe I should start caring what other people think because clearly, you have a few thoughts about each of us here.”

He’d been so harsh on Danielle- who I didn’t know well but definitely didn’t think he’d deserved what he’d said. And then there was Gabby, who he’d accused Wyatt of stealing- which had pissed me off. She had her own feelings and wasn’t a thing to be taken. If she and Wyatt had a better connection then so be it.

Then it hit me- he liked Gabby. Or more than that. I wondered if he’d be just as upset if I’d been the one who’d gotten on so well with Wyatt. Maybe that’s why I was so mad because I wasn’t sure.

But as I’d been in the Women’s Room listening to him yell at his brother I’d begun to wonder if maybe he had some unaired criticism he might want to lay on me. It was only fair I felt. We said no lies and I wanted the truth- even if it hurt.

“Of course I do! And you want to know what I think?” Ben took a step closer and cupped my face with both hands. “I like you. A lot. Even more, if you’d stop and listen to me for a second. I want you here. Whoever you may and whatever you have to offer. Got it?”

“And I'd like you more if you didn't-“ I grunted, angrily. “I don't know what to say.”

I looked up at him in frustration. I’d like you more if you didn’t distrust me. I’d misjudged him early on and held things back- and it had hurt us. But he’d done the same thing and it was coming full circle.

“What do you want me to say, that your independence is admirable but wildly frustrating and a little illogical sometimes?” His frustration matched mine as he let his hands drop. “Or that I know you care about me and somehow you still find an excuse to put wedges in our relationship? Well too bad, Lia. I’m here. And I want you to be too.”

But he put wedges there too. I’d given him so many chances to just let me in- even a little bit and every single time he’d shut down. It didn’t matter if I wasn’t going to be anything more than what we were at the moment because above everything else I was his friend.

And I knew I should have given him space but instead I’d been stupid and pushed him. In trying to help I’d probably done the opposite and I felt bad. I’d failed him.

“I don't know, Ben.” I sighed and flopped back onto my bed. “You frustrate me too.”

Ben joined me on the bed, with one hand on either side of my body as he hovered over me.

“It’s called a relationship. No one’s forcing you to endure me and my frustrating qualities if you don’t want to.”

For fucks sake. He knew I wanted to be with him. But that wouldn’t matter if he decided he didn’t want to be with me. I didn’t want to get hurt- but I didn’t want to hurt him either..

“I know what a relationship is- even if it’s a bad one.” I looked up at him. “And I never said I didn’t want this with you.”

“Are you implying this is a bad relationship?”

Far from it. I’d been in one for three years before him… It hadn’t been until just recently that I began to belatedly recognise the signs… With Ben there were none.

“No- never.” I shook my head. With a sigh, I reached up to stroke his cheek with the back of my hand. “It’s good, we’re just having a bad moment.”

I wanted to tell him that we were allowed to have those. It didn’t always have to be picture perfect. That wasn’t realistic.

“Lia.” His gaze softened. “Are you going to believe what I said? Or insist on your crazy ideas that you’re just another potential housewife and I don’t care about you?”

I let out a groan. I needed to come clean.

“Fine… I believe you- even if I lied.” I chuckled a bit. “Besides I’m pretty sure if that were the case I’d end up being the housewife that poisoned her husband with some nice dinner I’d make.”

I could play Cell Block Tango while I cooked it.

“I’m sorry, you lied?” He blinked down at me. “About what?”

“I know you wouldn’t want me to just sit around and all that- I was mad and was just repeating something someone had told me… It wasn’t even about you.”

I’d told him he wasn’t his father and none of the girls at the palace were his mother. But at the same time what I needed to hear was that I wasn’t my mother and he wasn’t my father.

It was almost funny the way we came from opposites. His mother and father had a beautiful love story while mine had some doomed torrid affair.

He stared at me another moment before rolling off of me and falling onto the bed beside me.  Ben groaned, rubbing his eyes beneath his glasses.

“You’re going to give me a stroke. We shouldn’t be lying to each other.”

I rolled onto my side, using one arm to prop up my head. I watched him for a moment. I’d never seen him looking so rough. For once in my life, I wasn’t sure I wanted to be right- not with how badly things had turned out. I wished I had been more than wrong when I told him needed to let people in or it’d hurt those around him.

“I know, I’m sorry.” I gave him a soft smile. “Well, that was a fun little experiment I’d be happy to never repeat.”

Ben let out a sigh. As he stared up at the ceiling he dropped his hands onto his torso. It was such a simple motion, but I loved it.

I love him…. I love you.

I wasn’t going to say anything- not now. We needed to get through this and that would only complicate things. I knew Ben and he didn’t say things if he wasn’t sure.

I was glad his focus was on the ceiling. I wasn’t entirely sure what expression I wore on my face and didn’t want him to ask.

“I wouldn’t exactly call that fun.”

“I was being sarcastic Jam Jam…” I raised my eyebrows. “Do you at least feel better?”

“I guess with you, but... not really.” He mumbled.

“Do you want to talk about it?” I asked.

This is your chance. You already know what I think you should do.

He was quiet for a bit, worrying me that I’d been wrong. I wasn’t sure who needed him to speak more… me or him…

“I hurt Wyatt. More than anyone probably has before. He won’t even look at me.”

Ben’s expression crumbled, with his eyes closing. You’re wrong.

“He’ll forgive you, it might just take a little time,” I assured him. I reached out to put a hand on his shoulder. “Wyatt was worried about you and you both were frustrated- he knows that.”

I thought about when I’d run into Wyatt in the barn- with Kathryn. He’d been upset and not because I was feeding his horse grapes.

“It’s more than just being frustrated. I basically admitted some of his deepest insecurities in front of people he doesn’t trust.” Ben continued. “He- he thinks I’ll be okay without him. That no one really needs him around. I... I don’t know how to come back from that.”

“Wyatt knows you need him and he needs you.” I scowled a moment before pausing as I considered something. “You might not be talking but he’ll come back to you- he’s your best friend… shit…”

Kit was my Wyatt. I’d been too caught up in my own emotions and hadn’t considered what he thought or felt. And now he was off somewhere married to a girl I didn’t like and didn’t even have my emotional support- regardless of how I felt about his actions.

Ben seemed to think over what I’d said before realising I’d stopped in the middle of giving him advice.

“What? What’s wrong?” He asked, looking over at me.

“I’m a terrible friend.” I shot him a tired look then waved off his concern. “Don’t worry about it, I’ll take care of it.”

“You sure? I’m not exactly in my prime but I still have two ears to listen.” Ben told me. He looked equally as exhausted as I did as he raised his eyebrows.

All this was between me and Kit. I needed to fix the situation before I brought in more opinions or lost my courage.

“Yeah, I’m sure. I messed something up but maybe it can be fixed. I’ll tell you about it later.” I leaned in to give him a soft kiss.

Ben reached up with one hand to cup my face as he returned the kiss.

“It’s a bit different without cake.” I teased, pulling back for a moment before leaning in again.

I could hear him chuckle as his lips met mine again.

“Still good.” He mumbled against my lips.

Ben rolled over again so he hovered above me. I leaned back further into the bed as I reached up to take off his glasses off, lightly tossing them to the side. My arms went back to wrap around his neck so I could pull him closer.

I just wanted him to be as close to me as possible for as long as possible. I didn’t want to think about the way we’d fought or how I wasn’t the only girl in his life. I just wanted him with all the outside noise.

It was a heavy feeling that started in my chest and spread. I couldn’t figure out what it was at first. It had been so long since I’d felt that way I’d almost missed it.

Ben’s hands moved to my waist, while his kisses deepened. He moved closer while I lowered one hand to wrap around his shoulder. My other hand went back up to hold the side of his face.

His hands gripped my waist a little tighter before they wrapped around my torso. I hooked a leg around his waist and moved my hand from his cheek to run it through his hair. I wasn’t sure how long we stayed that way until he suddenly pulled back.

“I should um- go, probably.” He blinked down at me.

Please don’t. All I wanted to do was pull him back to me. I didn’t want to let him go even if I knew I should. It was too much.

“Of course, yeah, you’re probably busy.” I groaned.

Disappointment ran through me as Ben kissed my nose before letting go of me. He sat upright.

“You’re not the only person I have to talk to.” He reminded me, with his shoulders slumping as he sat on the edge of my bed.

The other girls. He almost looked tired at the thought.

I remembered telling him early on that who he kissed or kissed wasn’t any of my business… but now I wasn’t so sure I felt that way. No scratch that. I definitely cared. I just wasn’t allowed to tell him. The best I could do was comfort and support him.

“For good luck.” I sat up and wrapped my arms around him from behind, then held out my pinky.

Ben smiled a little as he took my pinky with his and gave it a squeeze.

“Thanks, Lia Bec.” He looked back over his shoulder and gave me a kiss on the cheek.

“Any time, Granny.” I nodded.

I let go of him and leaned back against my bed. He stood up and went to my door, then flashed me one last smile with a wave.

“See you at dinner.”

I laid on my bed after he left, considering everything, as I tried to recover. When I’d finally worked up the courage I went to the nightstand beside my bed. I picked up the phone and dialled the number I knew so well, holding my breath as the dial tone buzzed.

Then it stopped.

“Fee?” His voice was shaky.

“I’m sorry, it’s all my fault.”

[rpgkroywen]

Face-Claim Master List w/BlogURLS

           F

Abigail Cowen - Daphne Blackwell ()

Alexa Demie - Ira Magdalene  (https://iramagdalene.tumblr.com)

Alycia Debnam-Carey - Feyre Archeron  ()

Annalisa Cochrane - Fischl von Luftschloss Narfidort  (https://fischltheprincess.tumblr.com/)

Anya Taylor Joy - Isabella Krul Constantin  ()

Astrid Berges Frisbey - Maruine Lynx  ()

Benedetta Porcaroli - Yisie Tudor  (https://yisietudor.tumblr.com/)

Casimere Jollette - Tsaritsa  (https://frostbitef.tumblr.com/)

Cheng Xiao - Hu Tao  ()

Daisy Ridley - Rey Organa Skywalker  (https://reyorgnaskywlkr.tumblr.com/)

Danielle Rose Russell - Brannagh  ()

Eiza Gonzalez - Helena Heydrich  (https://queenofthedmnd.tumblr.com/)

Elizabeth Olsen - Waleraine Carmilla Bloodbringer  (https://thoushaltnotsufferawitchtolive.tumblr.com/)

Elle Fanning - Ilyanna Ivanov  ()

Ennik Somi Douma - Sandorone  (https://sandronethemarionette.tumblr.com)

Fernanda Ly - ZeroTwoB  ()

Jang Ye-eun - Kujou Sara  (https://kujoufsara.tumblr.com/)

Jennie Kim - Geto Suguru  ()

Jessica Alexander - Felicia Sarah Hardy  ()

Josephine Langford - Evaluna Jora Black  (https://evalunablack.tumblr.com/)

Katherine McNamara - Minerva Freya Johnson  ()

Katheryn Newton - Celenia  ()

Katheryn Winnick - Athena Yaxley  ()

Kennedy McMann - Charlotte Loise Faraday  (https://charlotteeloisefaraday.tumblr.com)

Kim Do-yeon - Nivrele Clair de Luna  (https://nivrele.tumblr.com/)

Liz Gillies - Andrew Raven Tepes  ()

Madelyn Cline - Lumine  (https://luminetheviatrix.tumblr.com/)

Mae Van Der Weide - Elvira Maeve Rosier  (https://elviramaeverosier.tumblr.com/)

Margot Robbie - Eve Mary Jordan  ()

Meg Donnelly - Anastasia Saint-Petersburg  (https://anastasiarstpetersburg.tumblr.com/)

Momo Hirai - Raiden Ei  ()

Natalie Alyn Lind - Kara Kent  (https://reddaughterofrao.tumblr.com/)

Natalie Dormer - Lilith  ()

Ning Yi Zhuo - Ganyu Latifi  ()

Olivia Holt - Yoimiya Naganohara  (https://yoimiyaqnaganohara.tumblr.com/)

Phoebe Dynevor - Proserpina Aidoneus  (https://paidoneus.tumblr.com)

Roseanne Park - Ayaka Kamisato  ()

Sadie Sink - Corvina Selwyn  ()

Sadie Soverall - Mary Jane Walsdorf  ()

Samantha Cormier - America Kennedy Singer  ()

Samara Weaving - Anthea Lucille Shephard  ()

Samara Weaving - Gabriel  ()

Sana Minatozaki - Yae Miko  (https://guujivioleteverbloom.tumblr.com/)

Sasha Kichigina - Heather Juliette Gashler  (https://heatherjulietteg.tumblr.com/)

Sasha Luss - Manon Blackheart  ()

Soo-young Park - Columbina aka Damselette  ()

Summer Fontana - Vrethera Blackwell  ()

Tiffany Young - Ningguang  ()

Victoria Pedretti - Nesta Archeron  (https://nestarcheronc.tumblr.com/)

Wonyoung Jong - Mona Megistus  () M

Aaron Taylor Johnson – Peter Sigmund Saintville  ()

Adam Huber - Satan  ()

Alex Fitzalan - Asmodeus  ()

Alex Saxon – Connor Cloudstrider  ()

Andrew Garfield - Benjamin P. Rolf  ()

Ben Affleck - Capitano  ()

Charlie Cox - Leonel Demarcus  ()

Charlie Hunnam - Kieran Knight  ()

Christian Yu – Geto Suguru  ()

Cody Fern - Lucifer Morningstar  ()

Danny Griffin - Fred Jones  ()

Drew Starkey – Childe/Tartaglia   ()

Dylan O’Brien - Aidan Blackwell  ()

Evan Peters - Dorian  ()

Evan Roderick - Waldemar Desmond Cloudstrider  ()

Evans Nikopoulos - Rhysand Darkbloom  ()

Freddie Thorp – Harry Osborn  ()

Freddy Fox - Draco Malfoy  ()

Henry Cavill - Pierro  ()

Hwang Min-hyun - Scaramouche  ()

Jacob Elordi – Cassian Faladel  ()

John Bubniak - Peter De Luc  ()

Leo Howard – Kazuha Kaedehara  ()

Logan Lerman - Percy Thaert  ()

Lorenzo Zurzolo - Henry Silverhood  ()

Lucas Bravo - Sebastian De Medici  ()

Lucas Lynggaard Tønnesen – Mikaela Morningstar  ()

Luo Yunxi - Pantalone  () 

Matthew Daddario - Leonard Blackwell  ()

Maxence Danet-Fauvel - Dominic Crouch  ()

Michael Provost - Maxon Schreave  ()

Michael Rosenbaum - Lex Luthor  ()

Oh Se-Hun - Kamisato Ayato  ()

Regé-Jean Page – Mansel Rudyard  ()

Rudy Pankow – Aether Viatrix  ()

Sam Claffin- Vernes Thaert  ()

Sam Corlett – Tamlin Glittersteam  ()

Song Jiyang - Xiao Latifi  ()

Theo James - Aurelian Edouard  ()

Timothee Chamalet - Yuichiro Amane  ()

Toby Regbo - Theseus De Medici  ()

Tom Hiddleston - Adam Shephard  ()

Tom Holland - Fenris Rolf  ()

Zane Holtz – Victor Sage  ()

Christian Bale - Hybern Kralı  

Thomas Doherty - Dagdan

[ellendegreat]

Hello and welcome to tonight’s edition of the Capitol Report! We’re excited to bring you a night filled with all the nation can talk about: the ending of Prince Benjamin’s Selection. To begin, I’d like to bring up where Ben’s story truly began...

King Christopher and Queen Isobel

E: Welcome, Your Majesties. For my first question of the evening, what advice would you give Prince Benjamin on making his final decision?

C: He has to figure out who he sees himself with in the end. *chuckles* Sounds like very vague advice, I know, but when it comes to the Selection… there’s no one way to go about it. You inevitably grow close with more than one girl. It becomes a matter of realizing what type of relationship you have with who. I was fortunate enough to know early on who stood out in that particular way for me, but there were moments when I was confused. Ben will have to face his different feelings head on to make any final choices.

I: To add onto that, Ben needs to figure out how he loves each girl. I’ve no doubt he loves all of them in their own ways, that happens as relationships like these progress. Though not every love is the same, some are lifelong friendships and only one can really progress to the romantic one he hopes for. It’s difficult to differentiate, though once he does the answer will be clear.

E: Indeed it will. What would you say are your impressions on each of the final three girls?

C: There's been a lot of talk about the last three lately, but I can't say I’ll issue judgement on any of them. The three seem like lovely ladies during our meals. Of course, I wouldn’t know much outside of that… Except I do because I’m the King *wiNKS and laughs lightly* Lady Vivienne was great company during the dinner we had for the visiting families. It’s good to see someone who’s willing to work hard for what she needs. It’s a strong character. I’ve heard Lady Ophelia keeps spoiling our horses, but I think they appreciate her kindness there. As for Lady Danielle, she’s as lively as anyone would expect from a performer, but she’s also thoughtful. I hope Illéans take that into consideration before misjudging.

I: What I’ve noticed all three Selected have in common is their undeniable kindness. They each portray it in their own ways—Vivienne is bolder, Danielle has a quiet consideration for others, Ophelia continually helpful—which has made a significant impression on myself. I worry for Ben *chuckles* though any of the girls he decides on in the end would leave me more comfortable. They suit him.

E: Elaborating more on the Selected, do you believe Lady Ophelia, Danielle, or Vivienne would make good future queens of Illéa?

C: Well, I do tell my daughters they could’ve been great Queens if they’re brother hadn’t won that race. I’m not complaining about them being my little princesses though. The remaining girls seem like a bunch that could also pull it off— if they have the determination. Maybe not all of them will have the same ease adapting to life as a royal, but I can assure you they seem like the type that would try.

I: With the right guidance and mindset, I’m confident they’d all make wonderful queens. Like Chris said, they’ll progress differently than one another, but I see them making good partners for Ben not just for life, but as a royal. That’s wildly important with this kind of life, continually supporting one another through every trial. Any of the Selected could use their unique skills to make the best of the job.

E: And we’re looking forward to see which of their particular skills will last through another wonderful reign. Thank you for your time!

Such wonderful words given by our monarchs, this evening. When we come back from the break, we’ll be joined by the younger Schreave royals to hear their thoughts on their future sister-in-law. Stay tuned! 

[benjaminschreave]

the  S e l e c t e d

The following girls have been selected, one from each province, to join Prince Benjamin Schreave at the palace to compete for his hand. Requirements will follow the announcement. 

From Allens… … … … …  Brianna Leia Fitzgerald @brifitzgerald  ||  @anonimereader06  

From Angeles… … … … . Gabriella Rose Patterson @gabriellapatterson  

|| @the-selection-trash  

From Atlin… … … … … .  Azil Jet @azil-jet || @addie-duff

From Baffin… … … … …  Hadley Henderson @hadley-henderson || @eadrik-maxerica

From Bankston… … … …  Elle Williams @elle-wwilliams || @paulagrij  

From Belcourt… … … … . Genevieve Alice Croft  @genevievecroft  

From Bonita… … … … . .  Vivienne Loyola @ladyvivienneloyola || @thesparklingjewel 

From Calgary… … … … .  Amalia Lucille Lewis @amaliallewis || @vaticancameos333

From Carolina… … … … .  Natalya (Natalie) Lori Bloom @natalyabloom || @lesbianladybrice

From Clermont… … … ….  Stella Carrington  @stella-carrington || @paulagrij

From Columbia… … … … Aria Hurst @ariahurst 

From Dakota… … … … . . Julia Mae Wood @juliamaewood​

From Denbeigh… … … … . Lana Barlow @lanahaileybarlow​

From Dominica… … … …  Fallon Merrill @lady-fallon​

From Fennley… … … … . .  Odette Siena St. Albans @odettestalbans || @thesparklingjewel​

From Hansport… … … … .  Tory Livingston @torylivingston || @selection-trash

From Honduragua… … … .  Darcy Duncan @darcyduncan || @simesbooks

From Hudson… … … … . .  Zara Noelle Flores @zara-flores || @everybookish

From Kent… … … … … . . Danielle LeBlanc @danielle-leblanc || @illeaslockedbluebox

From Labrador… … … … . Ahmara Esperanza Quill  @ahmaraquill || @lesbianladybrice

From Lakedon… … … … . Cassandra Grace Oliver @cassandra-oliver​​

From Likely… … … … … .  Natalie Larsen @natalie-larsen || @eadrik-maxerica

From Midston… … … … . Savannah Conley @savannah-conley

From Ottaro… … … … … Sadie Clark @sadieclark || @anonimereader06

From Paloma… … … … . Raven Dyer @raven-dyer || @keadlyn-forever

From Panama… … … … . . Felicity Abbott @felicity-abbott

From Sonage… … … … . . Ophelia Gardinier @opheliagardinier ||

From Sota… … … … … .   Adeline Knox @adelineknox

From St. George… … … . . Andrea Rowan Barr @andrearowanbarr​

From Sumner… … … … . Celaena Sage Abbot @celaena-abbot || @mswish-i-was-a-schreave

From Tammins… … … … Payton Monroe @payton-monroe

From Waverly… … … … . Farah Winters @farahwinters059 || @zarina059

From Whites… … … … . . Mikki Ella Myeong @mikkimyeong || @laszlo-kreizlers

From Yukon… … … … . . Glimmer Starr @glimmer-starr || @the-selection-trash

From Zuni… … … … … . Candy Rose Stevens @ladycandyrose || @laszlo-kreizlers

--First blog link is the OC’s, second is the personal blog behind the creator. Since this time around the fandom is smaller, we only reached 25 girls. the selected who only have a side blog are drop out oc’s we had to include to get this going!--

If Selected:

you can join the hangouts group chat by clicking on the link here. 

you must join the Selection OC Net. To do that you will receive an email invitation. Check the email you included in your application to access it. 

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benjamin schreave

[gabriellapatterson-blog]

The Dog Days.

A/N: Thank you so much for rps @benjaminschreave and @christopherschreave make sure to check out @the-dogs-of-illea

I sat at my desk leaning back and forth as I read Emma’s letter. I had mentioned in a past one that I had no clue what the heck I was doing with this whole dating thing. She gave three tips:

Wait for him to kiss you first. Don’t be desperate even if he is a prince you’re still the Queen.

Remember relationships are a two way street. Make sure he meets your standards too.

Don’t show him Mr Cuddles.

Knock out deal breakers. DON’T BE PICKY THOUGH. If he doesn’t like peanut butter than you shouldn’t drop out because of that!

I rolled my eyes. Yes Emma obviously peanut butter is a worthy cause to leave the selection. I mean peanut butter cookies, peanut butter toast, peanut butter sandwiches, it’s a magic tool. What other deal breakers would I have though? I guess if he didn’t like family, my family or his. I can’t really test that though. If he was racist? Well I already know he’s not from political interviews. I sighed and laid down in my bed. I wish I could go surfing. That always helps me get ideas. Breakfast will be soon though. Only an hour left till I’m supposed to be awake.

I sighed and walked to my balcony. At least I had a view of the ocean. I closed my eyes and sat down on the floor and just breathed. It’s okay, dating is confusing and new, you shouldn’t know everything yet. Alright. What do you love about daily life? Let’s start there. I walked back to my room and grabbed a notepad and pen.

Waking up early and smelling the morning air too picky to be a deal breaker 

Eating toast  too picky

Running Maybe?

Surfing. Already know he likes it.

Gregory too specific

DOGS!

The idea hit. He needed to like dogs! Really most animals but I could settle for dogs! I can’t just ask him if he likes dogs though, what if he hasn’t had a dog or has only had a bad dog. He might not even know. I paced from one side of the room to the other as I thought. How could I test it? Then the idea hit. I was going to have a date that would go down in history. I smirked as I darted out of my room and made my way to find someone to help. I needed a laptop.

My leg bounced up and down at breakfast. Oh God oh god. I was going to break a rule I could get in so much trouble for this. I watched the kind and waited as he stood up from breakfast. I counted the seconds before I stood as well and followed him at a distance. At least this was an excuse to take those heels off.

He made his way into the library. Oh God I needed to say something. What if he was doing some super secret important stuff that I wasn’t supposed to see what if- OW!

“OH F-UDGE!” I yelped almost cussing but managing to catch myself as I stubbed my bare foot on a library shelf. I mean everyone cusses when they hit their foot. It feels like someone’s just bashed it with a hammer. Though, the king was right there. As my possible future father in law I really couldn’t cuss infron- well behind him.

I had fallen on my bum from hitting my foot. Gosh I need to stop meeting royals on my bum in the library. First Ben now his dad. His dad spun to face me now glancing down at me on the floor.

“Hello Mr King. I would curtsy but as I'm already on the floor I don't think I can go much lower.” I said speaking quickly. Oh no. I’m too nervous. Oh gosh I’m gonna ramble. Don’t ramble, Gabby. Don’t. Ramble. Gabby.

He blinked seeming shocked at the girl who had been stalking him then just fell on their bum, laughed a little bit then offered me his hand, “Lady... Gabriella if i remember correctly?” He asked.

Oh no. Don’t ramble, gabby. Do not ramb- “Uh hi yup. I'm Gabriella Rose Marie Patterson from Angeles I'm a three, I like to surf and play with animals. You are Mr King King Christopher Schreave. Your a king. You do Kingly things.....anyways, I have a reason I don't normally just follow people around. I wouldn't say stalking is one of my hobbies. Clearly not or I would probably be better at it and wouldn't hit my toe on bookcases. Though, that may come down to just poor walking skills not really stalking skills-anyways, point point I have a point how do I phrase this, gosh I'm wasting so much of your time.”  OH GOSH DARNIT.

He listened to my ramble before I finished then waited a moment to be sure I was done before politely smiling and gesturing to a table. “Would you prefer if we sat down, Lady Gabriella?”

“Uh sure yes if you have the time. I have a proposition I'd like to make.” I sighed finally getting out what I needed to say.

“We'll see how that goes.” He said and walked me over to a table. Oh he probably thinks this is something serious. I hope he won't be mad. He did make a vine reference at breakfast the other day though.

“I have a few minutes to spare.” He added.

“Alright okay okay. So don't laugh but here's my pitch. I want to do a date with your son that's just playing with dogs. I've heard dogs aren't allowed to stay here and that's horrible-” He scoffed in amusement at my dread of the no dogs rule.

“-but it would just be for one date and I could put them all in the ballroom there's like 65 on the organization I looked at. The dogs and puppies would have so much fun and it would be like the best thing ever.” I finished.

“Well, just so you know, I couldn't have 35 pets roaming around the palace in case everyone had one, but I really have nothing against dogs.” He said then leaned back in his seat.

“What organization are you getting all these pups from again?” He asked.

“Oh it's a no kill dog shelter called furkids. All of them have been cleaned for lice, vaccinated, and neutered.” I explained quickly my research from this morning. If this was going to be a royal sponsored event I needed to make sure the organization had a good background. Wouldn’t want to publicize a puppy mill.

He scratched his beard as he thought intensely over my idea. Must be an agonizing choice. “65 dogs? All in the ballroom?”

“They can fit! Half are puppies.” I assured him.

He chuckled, “I'm sure they would. Can you assure me this won't end up in a mess? Are they trained?”

“It will not end in a mess. They are potty trained and if they do make a mess I have a dog. I will clean it up.” I added. I really wanted to make this happen and I was willing to do as much as I could to get this through. I’m nothing if not persistent.  

“Sounds like you've got this all covered. I hope this date is with my son, otherwise it would be awkward.” I smiled and giggled a bit at his concern.

“Nope it's with sir Lancelot.” I replied sarcastically before quickly clarifying.

“no no it is with Benjamin. I just want to be sure he likes dogs as much as I do since it's not like relationships are a one sided thing. I have my own priorities a partner must meet and dogs are just one of them.” I explained.

He raised an eyebrow amused, “Oh, he likes dogs, don’t worry. Just don’t feed him lettuce and keep him away from birds and you‘ll be fine.”

“Birds? That's a weird phobia. Was he attacked as a child?” I asked with a chuckle.

He thought for a moment, “By a tarantula once... But that‘s clearly not the story you want. You want birds, which was later on. He wasn’t precisely attacked by them, rather than... chased. Not in a particularly menacing way, but he was scared. When they.. “dropped their load” on him it didn’t help if you know what I mean.”

I couldn’t help but laugh at the image of it. I had read he had a pure hatred of the birds. I had been wondering but thought it would have been something much more aggressive than that. The tarantula story sounds more traumatizing. “Oh my gosh! WOW! I mean I guess that could be traumatizing. How old was he?” I asked.

“Around ten or so. Not the best day in the gardens.” I talked with father for a little longer about Ben and the birds until we finally hit a point of bargaining.

I could bring the dogs to the palace if the king was allowed to take one to surprise Isobel. It seemed like a great idea so I gleefully agreed. Great! Now 3/6 royals met! Just Queen Isobel and the princesses. So far they all seemed like a wonderful family, but I wanted to know all of them before I was as committed as I would need to be at the end of the selection.

I waited a few hours for the dogs to be brought in then helped them get uncaged in the ballroom. Maybe I should have waited until after I had prince Ben to uncage them? No. They seemed so sad trapped in those little boxes. Plus it gave me a head start on knowing them. I picked up a big fluffball of a dog named mashed potato who the King had requested and had a maid make sure he got up there. She seemed delighted with the task.

I carefully exited the ballroom and made my way for prince Ben’s room. I felt giddy about my idea. Then suddenly a little anxiety hit. Gosh what if he thinks I’m a crazy dog lady. Well, at least it’s better than a crazy cat lady. Plus this is just who I am. He understands it or he doesn’t.

I had to stop for just a second before I knocked on his door. My heart was racing just a little bit. Now I remember what having a crush is like. I then grinned after I inhaled and knocked on his door. “Aye Benny boy! It's Gabriella.” I said. Oh whoops I bet the whole hall heard me.

He opened the door with an amused expression, “Do you always greet people like that?”

“Perhaps. I don't normally think too much about how I greet people.” I paused and smiled proudly thinking about all of the work I had put into this date. It was almost time to see his expression at all the dogs. I couldn’t help but to teeter totter on my heels just a bit. Though I had been scolded for doing so as it was not ‘lady like’.

“I have an amazing surprise for you!” I started then took his hand ready to lead him to the ballroom.

“Whatever you're doing stop because this will be the best experience of your life if you come with me.”

His brow raised slightly, “Best experience of my life? That’s quite a promise, Gabby gal.”

“I 100% promise it. I will like give you all of my shoes if not. So will you come?” I said unsure for a moment of what to promise him. Though I knew I would win I would still love to get rid of all of these heels.

“Your shoes? What would I do with those?”

“No idea. You could wear them or use them for a prank and switch all of Wyatt's shoes with them. Anything really.” Little known fact about me. I’m a genius at pranking. For April fools one year purchased one of those cheap sets of like 1000 tiny army men for like five bucks. While she was asleep I placed them all over her house, in her shoes, in her pantry, cupboards, between the sofa cushions. She still finds them.

I noticed him closing the door and took it to mean he was going to come, “Great! Follow me.” I said and turned around. I slid my hand into a pocket on my dress to pull out a map. I had asked my maids if they could start putting pockets in my dresses and was very pleased that they agreed. My head maid Angelina said it was just going to be a designing challenge. I liked her competitive nature.

Ben curiously looked over at my map, “You know I suggested this to someone the other day.” He said. Makes sense. This is a very complicated house to get through.

We talked for a bit more about the size of the palace relating it to my very tiny village. Next we ended up talking about my family until we finally made it to the ballroom. I sneakily got into the room so he wouldn’t be able to see anything.

“Am I going to be kidnapped and thrown into the back of a van?” He asked from the hall.

“Yes that is totally it!” I replied back sarcastically. Some of the dogs began barking for attention as there was a person now there who was NOT petting them yet.

He then walked in and looked down at me in pure shock. I suppose it’s reasonable that he wasn’t expecting this. “Um... what?”

“Well well..my friend Emma said that when you start dating someone, which this kinda is dating someone, you should find out things called deal breakers and one of mine is people who don't like dogs. And some people say they don't like dogs but really what they mean is "i've met 1 mean dog" so i wanted to know if you like dogs.” I said trailing off as a very small puppy ran up to Ben and started trying to climb his leg.

“LOOK AT HIM OHMYGOSH.” I couldn’t help but to lose it at the tiny puppy trying so hard for attention.

Ben leaned down and picked up the puppy that had to be only two or three months old, “Oh my god, is this even real?” He asked as he made his way to the center of dog heaven a smile growing on his face.

“Yup yup 100% real. I talked to your dad and convinced him to say yes. It's not forever though. But was I right is this the greatest experience of your life? Puppy and dog world? It's like a theme park.”

“This is incredible.” He said with a laugh and looked around at all of the dogs before turning his attention back to me.

“Wait, my dad helped you with this?” He asked.

“Well I got him to agree to it. I don't wanna lose the credit since I did find the organization. They're from a very good no kill dog shelter. It's a local business from Angeles. DO YOU SEE THAT PUPPER WITH THE BIG FLOPPY EARS OH MY GOSH THE FELLOW IS CHASING HIS WITTLE TAIL!” I said getting distracted by the cute puppies.

“What’s with conspiring with my parents?” He asked with a chuckle and shook his head, “Those ears are the cutest thing I’ve ever seen.”

“Just 1 parent. I needed permission.” I said then got the best idea ever and just plopped down on the ground.

“Come to me!” I said summoning the dogs. About four came over, one even started giving me puppy kisses causing me to giggle a bit as I pet them.

“I can’t believe you managed to pull this off.” I heard Ben say, my vision blocked by all the cute dogies.

“I'm amazing at arguing.” I replied then sat up and started stroking some of their heads.

“aren't you a cute little baby? I bet that all of these dogs are going to be adopted so quickly now too. They can advertise them as 'pet by the prince' and then all these puppies will have homes.”

“I'll personally make sure each of these dogs gets adopted.” He seemed pleased with the thought.

“I can help and make a list of each of the dogs. I've started learning some of their names. Such as the pupper you are petting right now is Chocolate Milk. He likes to drink chocolate milk though it makes him very sick.” I introduced.

Ben then scratched his ear and leaned in closer to chocolate milk, “Chocolate. Delicious, I know the temptation, but very bad for you.”

I chuckled a bit at Ben being cute with the dog, there was just a lot of cuteness going on in this room. I stood up and brushed some of the dog hair off to start with the rest of the introductions.

“That one is peep because he really likes the story of little bo peep, that one is pepper because she looks like a black pepper. That one is McPickles because he looks like a pickle, and last one I know that is Sunshine because his smile makes you feel as happy as sitting in the warm sun. OH!” I said and suddenly remembered the best perk this shelter had. A new nameless puppy who was only a month old at most. He had his little eyes opened but was about the size of my hand. Just a little bit bigger. I walked over to the small sleepy baby and took him back to Ben and sat down to let the puppy sleep in my lap.

“this little fellow doesn't have a name yet. They said we could pick one.” I said and began to pet his head softly as he napped in my lap. I felt my heart melt as I saw his little sleepy eyes, his paws just resting on my thigh as my legs were folded underneath myself.

“Hmmm I would say sleepy as a suggestion but that might limit us to snow white and the seven dwarf names.” I chuckled as I pet his soft little ears. I was already getting too close to him already.

“You're right though about the dopey appearance.” I replied smiling softly down at the dog.

“You're a sleepy little dopey dog aren't you?” I asked in a soft higher pitch voice as I squished one of his paws lightly.

We finally agreed on dopey and I had to turn to ask for him to be kept aside. Dopey was going to be my new puppy. If I was at the palace or at home didn’t matter, but I couldn’t let him get adopted during the selection. Selected weren’t allowed to have their pets so I guess he’ll just have to wait for his mommy at the shelter.

Ben offered to let me keep him at the palace but we finally decided that really wouldn’t be fair. Other selected couldn’t have their pets, there was no reason I should be excluded from that rule. I watched Ben playing with chocolate milk with a smile as I pet dopey. I could see this being a good life for me. Petting dogs with the boy I have a crush on and am kind of dating. Ughs the word dating made my heart flutter. Though I kind of was. This was a date. It’s not like we would be dating after this. The selection ends with marriage. But whatever Ben and I were I was happy with it. We were getting along, he was funny, we had nice conversations, and we were both having fun petting adorable dogs. This date was a success.

“Chocolate Milk really does seem to like you. Maybe after feeling such a connection he'll take his chocolate problems more seriously.” I joked with a soft chuckle.

He looked at chocolate milk with a serious look, “No more, you hear me? I need you alive and well for when I convince my parents to adopt you.”

I laughed at him talking to the dog, “His addiction will be defeated by love. A true Disney story. Chocolate Milk and his adventure with chocolate.”

“I'd watch the hell out of that.” He laughed as he pet chocolate milk.

“So your dad told me you were traumatized as a child?” I said deciding now would be a good time to bring up his bird vendetta.

“Which time?” He asked in a dry amused tone.

“Well. He brought up your bird trauma specifically. I'm surprised you even go outside after that.” I joked.

I debated with him for a little longer since I found some birds adorable. Like those ones with the really puffy chests that just look like balls of feathers and have tiny cute little beaks. Finally, I decided I would just have to give and bring an army of birds to the palace instead.

“Let's agree to disagree, poop boy.” I joked switching out the benny in benny boy to poop off of our topic.

“I really hope that one doesn't catch.”

I rolled my eyes, “Don't worry it won't.” Suddenly Dopey got up and started to stretch. Nap time must be over. He jumped up and ran off to go play with some of the other puppies who were tackling each other. They grow up so fast.

“Play safely, young one!” I said to him as he ran off, a yellow golden retriver gladdly frolicing over to replace his attention.

In contrast, Chocolate Milk was looking pretty sleepy. He started to curl up against Ben as he got more pets, “If I don't leave in the next five minutes, this guy is the one in danger of being kidnapped.”

I chuckled, “just gotta remember the ethics and rules, Ben. No kidnapping. His brothers and sisters might miss him.”

He frowned teasingly, “But I’d miss him more.” He then chuckled as he pet Chocolate Milk.

“Maybe you can get your dad in here later to try and convince him to fall in love with chocolate milk and let him stay.” I suggested. His dad seemed to like the idea of the dogs earlier. Though Mashed Potato may have already won him over.

“Funny enough I can see that happening.” He said with a small laugh.

“If you really love him you should try. It would be normal for you to have a pet where as with the rest of us there would suddenly be a demand for 35 pets.” I argued in favor of Chocolate Milk. Truthfully, I’d love for their to be a dog at the palace. I’ve really missed Gregory.

He looked down at chocolate milk, “I’ll see what I can work out.”

“I'm going to be on edge until I know if chocolate milk will be a permanent resident. I'll go ahead and make some welcome home cards just in case though.” I said.

He laughed, “If there’s any developments, you’ll be the first to know.” He said.

“Have I ever told you about my dog Gregory?” I asked.

“Gregory... pretty adult name for a dog.”

“It fits his personality perfectly. This morning I went through my letters from home and I had one from my sister Eliana who apparently got him a new blanket for his doggy bed. Now we thought pink as an acceptable color. Apparently it is not. He only likes salmon colored things so the hot pink blanket was ripped up and thrown by him near the trash can. He likes only the lavish things of dog life and refuses anything other than the exceptional. He's a very funny dog.” I said rambling off a little bit.   

He chuckled, “An incredible dog, being color blind and still knowing the difference between shades of pink.”

“Probably can see the different shades of gray. He's very funny. I wonder if he and Dopey will get along. Maybe he'll teach Dopey how to be snooty.”

“I could learn a thing or two from him about being snooty.”

I chuckled, “Why? Are you eager to fit into the royalty stereotype?” I teased.

He shuged teasingly and adjusted his suit jacket, “I’ve heard it’s helpful in certain situations.”

“Like when you're at a restaurant and they give you the wrong order but you're too scared you'll come off as snooty so you eat the burrito anyways even though you ordered it without tomatoes because you're allergic.” I said being a little too specific.

His brow raised, “Speaking from experience?”

We talked for a little bit more about the tomato burrito story until we finally got to the topic of my tomato ‘allergy’.

“I used to be able to eat tomatoes but then when I was little I snuck into the kitchen and ate so many I got sick. Never been the same again.”

“You know I'm surprised I haven't done the same to myself with chocolate.” Ah sweets. I wasn’t even allowed to have them until I was 16. Mom said they would make me perform poorly in school.

“Do you like all kinds of chocolate or just milk?” I asked.

“All. I like milk with caramel mostly, but any that I can find works for me.” Wimp.  I like BLACK chocolate.

“Do you like it super super dark?” I asked testing his tastes just a little.

“Like my coffee, absolutely.” I smiled almost approvingly as he had passed the test. Suddenly more dogs came over to Ben which made me pout.

“How come the dogs keep coming to you? Puppies?” I called to them then saw Dopey running back to me which made me smile. Awww he cares about me.

“I guess you could call me a great dog person.” He chuckled and pet the dogs head. Drop everything. That was the worst delivery of a joke I have ever heard. I didn’t even pick up on it for a moment.

I rolled my eyes, “was that just a great dane joke?”

He grinned, “So you caught it.”

“Alright, benjamin. It's time to teach you one of my skills as comedy master. Comedic pausing. This one makes you seem more like a loser but its effective. Between the A and a great dog person you should have held a like 3 second pause so it would have been "you could call me a...great dog person." It builds suspense.”

“And then put emphasis on 'dog?'” He asked collaborating.

“Hmm maybe. That might be a little too much but let’s try again and see how it sounds. Take it from the top.” I said trying to picture how the delivery would sound.

He paused for a moment and cleared his throat, “I guess you could call me a... great dog person. How'd I do?” He asked.

Dopey seemed to love his joked as his tail began to wag. We talked for a bit and joked about Ben being the king of comedy and already had a number one fan. Though being both the king of comedy and the king of comedy was a little extreme. He watched the dogs for a moment before speaking up, “I should probably go. This was a nice break though.”

“Oh right I did interrupt you when I pulled you into dog heaven.” I chuckled as I moved Dopey up off of my lap to stand up and brush some of the dog fur off. I then offered a hand to Ben, “Do I owe you any shoes?”

“Not a single one. This was an amazing experience.” He said with a smile as he took my hand.

“Heh I'm glad.” I said then offered my arm to him, “and since I started it this time I'll walk you back to your room.” I stated with a smile.

A brow quirked up, “That’s a first.” He said with a chuckle and accepted my arm.

“Well I believe in equality. You did so last time I do so this time. Alright time to pull out my map again. Bye bye Dopey!.” I said and used my other arm to reach my hand into my pocket for the map. He reached over with his free hand and placed it on top of mine.

“Why don’t you let me guide us back?” He suggested. I felt a little flustered when I felt his hand on my own since I wasn't expecting it but looked up at him with a smile.

“Alright. You lead, I provide arm support and company.” I joked.

“Strongest girl around, remember?” He joked and poked my upper arm.

I laughed a bit as he did so, “Be careful, schreave. You're poking the most dangerous guns of all time there.”  

“That's probably a bit of a stretch.” He said with a laugh. Time to be a goof again. This is why you don’t have a boyfriend Gabby. Well you kinda don’t have a boyfriend.

“Not at all. You have no idea the damage that could be done if they were freed. Lucky for civilization I keep them under control.” See this is where a normal girl would have giggled and agreed it was just a stretch and flirted or something. Instead a goof like Gabby says things like this to her crush.

“What kind of damage are we talking about?”

“Like gaston levels of danger. Just women and men swooning. Falling everywhere. The economy would collapse because everyone would be too busy swoony at my amazing guns. End of illea kinda danger. I'm a hero for keeping them under control.” A disney reference, really? Are you twelve, Gabby?

“Well then I thank you for your honorable service to Illéa.”

I couldn’t help but chuckle at his serious response, “You are very welcome. See I'm not just a freeloader, I'm also a national hero. The prince himself even thanked me.”

“A national Illéan, saving the lives of puppies and princes one day at a time. Should be your catchphrase.” He suggested with a grin.

After catchphrases we moved onto superheros and ended up chatting until we reached his door. It felt like our conversation wasn’t over yet but we would need to stop talking eventually.

“I like that. Coolest dynamic duo Illéa's ever seen.” He said as we reached his door.

“Yup. We deserve our own superhero movie about us.” I said then let go of his arm.

“I would ask more about details of our heroes backstories since im sure their thrilling but I don't wanna keep you from your work not to mention standing in front of your door for too long so backstory planning will have to wait for another time.” I said and smiled up at him. I wondered for a moment what to do. We determined last time that we were ready for hugs so I suppose I could hug him goodbye? Should I start it though or should I wait mayb-

My thoughts were interrupted by a sudden kiss on my cheek. “Thanks for the doggy day, Gabby protector.” He said using my superhero name.

I’m not sure how but I didn’t run and hide after. I’m sure I would have by now if this was like when I had a crush on Jonathan but this felt different. Instead of being so nervous I wanted to hide, with Ben I just wanted to spend more time with him. I have no idea where the guts came from but I stood up on my tiptoes, arms around his shoulder to help support myself and returned the cheek kiss with a cheek kiss on his cheek.

“You're very welcome, B.O.S. Good luck with working.” I replied using his hero name as well.

He chuckled back at me and opened his door to go back into his room, “Good luck with all that dog poop.” He replied with a wave to which I just rolled my eyes.

“Thanks, benny boy.” I replied with a small wave and decided to start heading back in the direction we came to go back to the dog room where I would be spending the day with a grin on my face from both dogs and pride at giving him a kiss back, even if it was just on the cheek. It was progress, I had guts, I knew how I felt, and I was more than happy.

[selection-oc-admins]

Welcome Prince Benjamin Luke Schreave

Played by Brianna and Ester

Selected applications will be up soon.

[illeaillustrated]

Presenting Illea Illustrated’s Influential Individual for The Final Issue: Crown Prince Benjamin Luke Schreave

@benjaminschreave

Illea Illustrated, The Farewell Issue 

Follow @illeaillustrated, A Former Media Correspondent of the Selection, for SelectionOC 4 Content 

Hey there Selectioners, ILL2 here. So we started with a prince on the cover (Nate) and I find it appropriate that we end with a prince on the cover (Ben)

Sooo yeah, this is our official announcement that Illea Illustrated will not be coming back for the SelectionOC Cycle 5. We’d just really love to thank you all for the support you’ve shown us while working on this magazine, your responses and feedback were very appreciated by us.

Like seriously guys, I went into this with like 0% knowledge on how to run and work a magazine, but wow- I’m so happy to have gotten to work on my skills through this platform. Honestly, I really will miss making ILL2 covers cause they’re like the best to make and I love the styling BUUUUUT, we’ve decided collectively to not continue on publishing issues for the OC. Nonetheless, we’d like to wish everyone luck especially to @benjaminschreave (Bri and Est) on their journey as the next prince and to anyone and everyone who’s going to be running a magazine in the next OC. We can’t wait to see where you guys can go from here.  So good luck guys, give everyone something to write about. 

Now it’s time for us to officially sign off, ILL see you when I see you ;) 

 - Anya, Co-Editor and Layout Artist <3

I’m not really going to say goodbye, because I’m sure I’ll still in touch with you, guys. Buuuut I do wanna say, I’m very thankful with all of you and specially with Anya for letting me be part of this magazine, which was her brilliant idea. I had a lot of fun doing the interviews and thinking about questions that suited your character’s personality, etc.  I hope you have a great 5th selection, full of OC drama with the super handsome prince Benjamin! ENJOY!!!  ~Grandma out~ 

[starlight-susan]

Thanks to @penfullofwordsaheadfullofstories for tagging me!!!

Rules: name ten characters from ten different fandoms and tag ten others to do the same

1. Peter Pevensie - Chronicles of Narnia (who would’ve guessed?)

2. Cal Calore - Red Queen (my fiery cinnamon roll)

3. Newt Scamander - Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them (hell yeah)

4. Klaus Baudelaire - A Series of Unfortunate Events (me except for photographic memory and wealth)

5. Queen Katharine - Three Dark Crowns (definitely recommended)

6. Maxon Schreave - The Selection (dad jokes galore)

7. Tedros Pendragon - The School of Good and Evil (literally cannot keep his shirt on)

8. Hermione Granger - Harry Potter (goals)

9. Sheldon Cooper - Big Bang Theory (bazzinga)

10. Benjamin Burrows - The Apothecary (this is such an unknown book that you all have to read omg if you wanna know and read the book I’ll leave the author’s name in the comments like please read this it’s so good!!!)

BONUS (because there are more and I can't help it it's not part of the actual tag game tho)

11. Draco Malfoy - Harry Potter (lovely fine specimen of the male species)

12. Alexander Hamilton - Hamilton ( there's a million things I haven't done)

13. Jason Grace - Heroes of Olympus (poor baby keeps getting hit by a brick)

14. Annabeth Chase - Percy Jackson and the Olympians (wise girl)

I’m too lazy to tag people haha so if you wanna do it feel free!!!

[newt-scamandars-left-knut]

Finger guns at @city-of-nerdfighteria. Sorry this took so long, painkillers make me unable to think interesting thoughts, so this took two sittings.

The Proust Questionnaire has its origins in a parlor game popularized (though not devised) by Marcel Proust, the French essayist and novelist, who believed that, in answering these questions, an individual reveals his or her true nature

1. “What is your idea of perfect happiness?” A family of my own, a comfortable life, and little to no anxiety.

2. “What is your greatest fear?” I am so very afraid of dying alone, without having loved or having been loved.

3. “What is the trait you most deplore in yourself?” I am a painfully awkward conversationalist. I dominate and talk too much about myself and make weird jokes and reveal too much too fast.

4. “What is the trait you most deplore in others?” I just really hate selfish people, especially selfish adults. 5. “Which living person do you most admire?” My mom. She has overcome so many challenges and she is such a hard worker.

7. “What is your current state of mind?” Sleepy, a little irritated. I had major surgery two weeks ago and I’m at this weird stage where I am not in agony, but everything is tingling and a little painful and I’m still on several medications.

8. “What do you consider the most overrated virtue” Unending and unconditional patience. I think there is such thing as righteous anger. You don’t always have to let everyone walk all over you and forgive everyone for everything.

9. “On what occasion do you lie?” For safety. To protect someone’s feelings or innocence. 

10. “What do you most dislike about your appearance?” It was my severe underbite, but surgery just fixed that...I’m not fond of my nose?

11. “Which living person do you most despise?” I guess my dad. He verbal abused me and emotionally manipulated me throughout my entire life, and now he is still hurting us from afar.

12. “What is the quality you most like in a man?” Intelligence, sensitivity, hardworking spirit.

13. “What is the quality you most like in a woman?” A lot of the same I guess. A duty to protect and support other women. 

14. “Which words or phrases do you most overuse?” m8, like, literally. Can’t think of any others right now.

16. “When and where were you happiest?” This one time at church camp...oh goodness that sounds so cliche...uh.....the theatre???? Idk I’m gonna have to go with 15 year old me at church camp. It was the bomb, believe it or not.

17. “Which talent would you most like to have?” The gift of tongues. I love languages but I’m not good at them. Also it would be cool to play the guitar.

18. “If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?” My anxiety can fuck off.

19. “What do you consider your greatest achievement” Playing Anne Frank in the play about her diary. The biggest role I ever played and probably the hardest I ever worked.

20. “If you were to die and come back as a person or a thing, what would it be?” A frog.

21. “Where would you most like to live?” Deep in Boston, or maybe Cambridge, by Harvard Square. A comfortable apartment near something interesting, like a park, or a museum, or a theatre. Right in the thick of it all. God I love Boston.

22. “What is your most treasured possession?” At the moment all I can think of is my digital camera. I bought it with my own money and I love taking pictures.

23. “What do you regard as the lowest depth of misery?” Utter loneliness.

24. “What is your favorite occupation?” This one is weirdly worded. I want to become a kindergarten teacher, which I think is really important work, but there are some more glamorous sounding jobs out there. I think a Broadway costume designer’s day must be pretty fun.

25. “What is your most marked characteristic?” Someone once said my lisp, which I hope isn’t true, but my surgery may have eliminated that...Someone else told me I have a lilting voice, and I am know for my advance vocabulary, so I guess just the way I talk in general.

26. “What do you most value in your friends?” 
Supporting each other.

27. “Who are your favorite writers?” Kiera Cass for bringing me Eadlyn Schreave (bless), Jane Austen, JK Rowling (as a writer but not really as a person), Marissa Meyer

28. “Who is your hero of fiction?” This is gonna sound really stupid, but it’s currently Eadlyn Schreave, and character in a really girly book...you know what, no, screw that, I won’t apologize for reading really girly fiction. She’s a princess in a “future America” situation, and she’s unapologetically feminine while also being a very powerful and unbending force of nature. She is just the biggest badass...it’s hard to convey how much I am loving her right now.

29. “Which historical figure do you most identify with?” Um Alice Paul is a huge badass so thanks Alice and also Lucy Burns. But seriously, I’ve always felt weirdly connected to her.

30. “Who are your heroes in real life?” My mom (I’m lame). To tired to think of any other right now.

31. “What are your favorite names?” I was actually just thinking about this the other day. I didn’t realize it until recently, but I have a pattern for the types of names I like. I love ornate, old fashioned names for girls (Amelia, Penelope, Holly, Cassandra, Camille, Jacquelyn, Ramona, etc.) and I love short, typically Biblical names for boys (Daniel, David, Noah, Sam, Adam, Jonah, Thomas, Benjamin).

32. “What is it that you most dislike?” Refusing to listen to opinions outside your own. 

33. “What is your greatest regret?” Letting people walk all over me

34. “How would you like to die?” Old age. Like not cancer or anything, just an old heart in my sleep.

35. “What is your motto?” “Help, I’m holding one too many things and I’m vaguely lost in life.”

I nominate you, reader.

[opheliagardinier]

bird-day cake

Sorry, this is so long… We’re getting towards the end and I’m kind of like eff it here’s a 7.5k fic for one rp…? That and given the fact that I had such limited access to internet the past two weeks I had all the distraction-free time in the world- mostly. I also didn’t cut anything out, which is something I never do… So it’s a start to end fic. Side note there cake that’s in the fic and it’s a real cake and it’s a M a Z i N g and here’s the link to that. If you’re outside the US and you’d like the recipe let me know because I have a doc I can send you- it even has metric units J. In case you can’t tell, I loveeeeee this cake.

This takes place a few days before her family arrives for reference- so it’s a side fic.

Thank you Bri @benjaminschreave for the rp and both Bri and Ester @wyattschreave for being so accommodating!!!

word count: 7515

It had been a chaotic few weeks since Ben’s birthday. The news of Aran’s return home had surprised me- but not as much as the fact that he’d be coming back.

A few days before the Big Day I planned a surprise for Ben. Now normally this tended to involve scarring him in some way or another but I figured he’d had enough of that as of late. He deserved something nice.

Ben had told me he would get some cake at the end of the ball- but seeing as how events had unfolded I doubted that had happened. So with a favourite recipe and a little help I set out to rectify that. No one was going to go without chocolate birthday cake on my watch.

Eventually, they slapped a sling on my arm, I was released from the hospital and sent back to my room with very specific instructions to take things easy. I could easily sleep twelve hours sure- even without the meds they were still cramming down my throat but the constant rest was agony. And the only thing worse than the rest was when I had to take my little jaunts down the hall.

Over time got easier and easier until the hall was easy peasy and I was able to set my sights higher. At some point, the end of the hall gave way to out of the hospital wing, which gave way to the garden and so on and so forth. It was a lot of work but I was determined to get better. And some days if I was lucky Viv even joined me if she had the time.

“Hey there Jam-Jam.” I beamed as I entered the library.

I had so badly wanted to skip into the library but my injuries still limited me. But I’d been told if I was diligent enough about my recovery I’d be able to do more normal things by the time my family arrived.

Ben turned towards me from the bookshelf he was stationed in front of. He seemed happy to see me, smiling at me as he stopped what he was doing.

“Lia-Bec, how ya feeling?”

With a sigh, I raised my injured arm just enough that it didn’t hurt. The sling was an absolute bitch. And not even a cute bitch at that. I would have bedazzled it if I could have but it was a difficult task when you were down an arm. And my maids were stressed out enough as it was- Astrid especially.

“Like a funky broken chicken.” I inched closer.

I thought about the Chicken Dance Elmo I’d had as a kid. At some point, the batteries began to fade and Elmo’s dance slowed, with his song becoming increasingly distorted. That was exactly how I felt.

“A very cute broken chicken.” He let out a small chuckle, then leaned forward to kiss my forehead.

My nose scrunched at the word cute but the kiss brought a small smile to my face. Every time he did something like that it sent a small tingle down my spine. It was a feeling I couldn’t get enough of.

“So what do you say we get out of here?” I asked.

“You know these outings of yours have somehow terrified me each time. I want to stay in the comfort of the library I think.”

I jokingly rolled my eyes then told him to name one time as a smirk played across my lips. Ben knew I would never do anything awful to him. There was no way he could name a single instance.

He quickly listed off the picnic I’d taken him on and that the time I’d put a whole bunch of baby birds on the roof. With a smile, I narrowed my eyes but still conceded.

“But you owe me,” I told him, leaning in closer.

“If anything you owe me.” Ben scoffed, which cause me to laugh.

“Now that’s where you’re wrong,” I told him with a wink, before leaning up to kiss him on the cheek. ”You lied to me, Jammy.”

“When have I ever lied to you?”

“On your birthday.”

Massacre aside I knew that despite his promise he likely would have been too caught up trying to make sure everyone else was taken care of.

“I'm positive I didn't lie to you then.” He gave me a sceptical look.

“You told me you’d get a piece of birthday cake and I know you didn’t.” I nodded. “And a birthday without cake just won’t do.”

“That wasn't a lie. “ Ben argued. “I thought I would, but... well you know. Why does my birthday cake matter anyway?”

Sometimes it was like Ben felt he didn’t deserve normal things. He’d had a big birthday party and had been so busy he didn’t even get to have some of his own cake. That was both a huge problem and a tragedy.

“Your birthday cake matters to me a lot.” I shook my head then held out my right hand. “Come on.”

“Alright...” He let out a small confused laugh as he took my hand.

I started leading him towards the doors of the library. I didn’t want to rush him but I was a bit concerned that if we weren’t quick someone might happen upon the cake on the kitchen island.

“I might even tell you where we’re going if you ask nicely- you know… since I scare you so much.” I teased.

“Keyword is might. Who knows if I can trust you.” His eyebrows wiggled while a smile tugged at his lips.

“Now Jammy have I ever lied to you?” I asked, pretending to be offended by his implication.

“At this point, I'd say we've gotten to know each other pretty well.” Ben chuckled.

We continued on down the hall, taking one of the couple turns that led to the kitchens. Ben looked around as if he was trying to see where we were headed.

I felt the urge to rub my arm but realised I couldn’t because we were holding hands. Not that the sling helped matters. So instead I just frowned a little.

“Mostly…”

“I'll say the same that whatever you want to know you can ask.”

I paused for a moment to think, then nervously looked up at him. Phrasing wasn’t always my forte- especially when it came to delicate subjects.

“It's not so much a question as it is an observation... Sometimes I say things and you seem haunted but you never want to risk burdening anyone else.”

His lips pressed together as his ears went red. A pang of guilt hit me.

I shouldn’t have said anything.

“That's pretty spot on.” He muttered.

“Yes well… I didn’t know how else to put it. It’s kind of like you just shut down and I never know what to do.” I sighed, giving his hand a squeeze.

“Well, it's... it's already hard enough for me, why would I put that on someone else?” Ben winced.

I gave Ben a sympathetic looks as I told him he might feel better if he shared and that maybe other people wanted to help- it was what partners did. Then I closed my mouth.

The worst thing about giving advice is when you have revelations about things you’ve done and times you should have followed it yourself. There were so many warning signs that I was just now beginning to recognise. I had never thought I was dumb but Jesus I had sure been an idiot in the past.

“I don't know.” Ben sighed, running his free hand through the top of his hair. “It just feels like I'm making more problems for someone else.”

If they can’t accept you and your problems then maybe they aren’t worth it. What I would have given for someone to have told me that sooner.

“But who does that help?” I asked. It doesn’t help you at all or your relationships so in the end it becomes problematic for other people and might even hurt them.”

I took a nervous breath as I waited for his response.

“I... yeah. Fair point.” He looked away from me.

I nodded as I considered what I’d said, a bit confused that I was able to say something like that considering my past failure when it came to relationships. 

Relationship.

“I’m sorry.” I murmured.

“For what?” He asked, blinking as he looked back at me. “You were just being honest.”

My head shook as I told him I didn’t like upsetting him. But god I’m good at it. I looked up at Ben as he stopped walking for a moment and squeezed my hand.

“I'm not upset. Something I needed to hear is all, so I'll probably thank you in the long run.” He gave me a small smile.

“I guess.” I sighed. My eyes closed for a moment then I looked back up at him.  “When all this is over can we still be friends...?”

“You-what?” He reared back in surprise.

“Prepare for the worst in case the best doesn’t happen.” I gave him a weak smile, but he had a sad look on his face.

I hadn’t done that before so I was trying to make sure that no matter the outcome I’d be okay. And it would be a real shame to not have Jam in my life if this didn’t end with us together.

“Lia... I really don't know how this is going to end yet. So can we forego that talk until we know for sure?”

“Yeah- I just-“ I sighed. “It's just different for you and sometimes that's hard for me to deal with.”

“Different meaning I'm the one making decisions?” He asked.

“Partially.” I groaned as I began walking again. “Just disregard me and my need for independence and forget I said anything about any of this- okay?”

It was something that had weighed on me for a while. Normally in a relationship, if things were going south you could tell. Or you could at least try to work things out. With this, it could end as quickly as it started.

“No- no, you said I could ask anything.” He said, trailing behind me. “What else makes it different?”

“I’ve been here before and done this.” I shook my head in frustration. “So there’s that.”

As we neared the kitchens Ben asked me if I meant being one of six girls he could end up with, giving me a small smile.

“Smartass,” I muttered, feeling the mood lighten ever so slightly.

I looked up at him with a much more serious demeanour. I explained that I’d been referring to being on the verge of getting married and being at the start of your life.

“Ah. That.” His nose scrunched up for a moment. “Intimidating.”

“Intimidating?” I asked as we stopped in front of the kitchen doors.

“Being married.” Ben clarified. “I don't mind the whole relationship part, because I want to be with that one, specific person. But marriage seems like a whole other ballgame.”

“Are you afraid you’ll get stuck?” I tilted my head to the side.

That could be a very reasonable fear he had. It could be entirely possible that out of thirty-five girls not a single one was perfect for him. I doubted it- but it was possible. From the way, he had a calming presence I imagined he’d fit well with Viv, or with his quirkiness, he’d do well with Gabby.

“In the relationship?”

“No- on a rooftop full of baby birds.” I smiled, rolling my eyes. “Yes the relationship- oh shit that was mean, I'm sorry.”

Ben let out a snort and told me he thought it had been funny.

“And not necessarily stuck. “ He added after a small pause. “I mean... don't people get more time than this? To build a relationship before getting engaged and married.”

“Well- who’s to say you have to get engaged and married the moment this all ends.” I shrugged with my one good arm. “You’ve basically got six girlfriends at the moment so when this is all over couldn’t you just have the one for a while and then get engaged and married?”

“I... don't know. That's not how it's been done in the past. I mean, look at my parents. They're constantly called the "cutest couple in Illéa" and they got engaged right away.” He explained.

I obviously wasn’t the biggest champion of keeping up with customs. Born out of wedlock, breaker of multiple laws, habitual drinker- wasn’t exactly fitting for the definition of the word “traditional”.

“And?” I argued. “You’re not your father and none of the girls here are your mother. So why should you have to try and copy their love story? Make your own.”

“But theirs is so good.” He told me after letting out a small groan, before adding with a tired laugh.  “I'm not quite there though.”

“And yours could be better for all you know- and you shouldn’t be there… I’d be worried if you were.” I smiled letting go of his hand. I turned away to push open the doors, but the stopped so I could motion to his eyes. “Normally I’d cover your eyes but I can’t so…”

“I think everyone would be worried if I was already there.” He told me as he shut his eyes.

With a snort, I joked that sometimes he worried me in general. I pushed open the door then walked behind him and set my good hand on his waist.

“That's not the first time I've heard that, by the way.” Ben began walking forward.

“From me?” I asked, guiding him along.

“From everyone.” He put his hands out in front of his body. “You know I've walked this kitchen since I took my first steps, right? We're about to hit the island.”

“Shit,” I muttered, stepping around in front of him.

I pressed my back up against the edge of the island as Ben snickered. He took another step forward and put his arms around my waist. And true to his word his eyes remained shut.

“I know my way around.”

For a split second, I studied his face as I sometimes did when I thought maybe he wasn’t looking. I desperately wanted to memorise these moments because I knew someday- and soon at that- we might not have this. I wanted to remember the good things.

“But you don’t know everything.” I playfully tapped his nose. “Now before you open your eyes should tell you I’m giving you a free pass to lie to me- just this once.”

I hadn’t been able to create my masterpiece myself so I wasn’t entirely sure it’d be the same as when I did it back home.

“Lie about what exactly?”

“Open.” I smiled up at him.

One thing first.” He said, leaning down. Ben fumbled for a moment before kissing me.

“You’re tricky, you know that?” I giggled.

I waited until he started opening his eyes to step out of the way. He began to grin when his eyes spotted the cake. Ben called me an angel- which I resisted the urge to roll my eyes at- then he gave me another quick kiss before letting go of me so he could inspect the cake.

It was a flourless chocolate torte with a chocolate ganache that coated the outside. There was also a raspberry reduction to go over the top because the tart taste was perfect with the richness of the cake. Normally I would have also added just a little dollop of mascarpone on top of each slice but unfortunately, the kitchen didn’t have any.

“And to think you were scared.” I chuckled. “Though don’t say that until you’ve tried it. My maid, Astrid, made it and I gave the orders- which she didn’t appreciate but I got shot so she had to.”

Astrid hadn’t really seemed to believe me when I told her I needed her help baking a cake. It was even harder to convince her once I told her what type of cake it was. But the injury card was a doozy and she felt guilted into saying yes.

Ben let out a short laugh then spared me a glance.

“It's true either way.” He said, turning to presumably search for flatware.

“One step ahead of you.”

I pointed over to another counter where I’d set everything out before I’d gone to get him. There were a couple plates, forks, and a wine glass ready for us. Ben brought over the plates and cutlery first then went back for the wine glass.

“Only one?” He questioned, raising a brow and the glass in unison.

“I can’t drink.” I nodded solemnly then pointed to the fridge. “There’s a bottle of white wine in there and a raspberry reduction for the cake.”

I’d attempted to sneak into the wine cellar again- which hadn’t exactly worked out. Given the recent increase in security, I’d unsurprisingly been caught. After putting on quite the show and going into great detail about how the tart flavour of a white wine would perfectly compliment the cake the guard finally had escorted me into the wine cellar. I’d had to pick the perfect bottle while being watched like a hawk.

“Mm. Well if you won't drink then I really don't have to.” Ben went to the fridge and pulled out a bowl with the raspberry sauce.

“Oh no. Mr, you need to drink for me.” I shook my head with a smile. “Let me live through you.”

I was counting down the days until I was completely medication free. I’d even had to forgo putting in the rum in the cake- which had hurt me immensely.

The pairing is perfect so I’m especially not letting you out of this one.

I thought it was probably best I didn’t bring up my run-in with security.

“You sure?”

“Positive.” I gave him a quick not then chuckled under my breath. “God I’d make the worst pregnant person.”

“I think you'd somehow manage for the sake of your children.” He told me with a laugh, bringing over the wine bottle.

“I think that’s what mothers are supposed to do so I’ll just have to- though I could be mean and either tell my partner they couldn’t have any alcohol, raw fish, and soft cheeses- or I could make them eat a ton of it for me.” My fingertips tapped against the island.

“Whoever it is would be happy to do both.” He stated, filling the wine glass halfway. I struggled for a moment to lift myself up onto the island. Ben reached out to help me but by that point, I’d already managed.

“Or there’s always the third option,” I said as I pulled the plates closed to me.

“Which is?”

“Doing it alone.” I shrugged, eyeing the cake.

“Having a kid by yourself?” He asked as he took the knife and began cutting into the cake, which I nervously watched.

“You might want to make them small- it’s kind of rich and I don’t think you’ll be able to finish all that.” I motioned to the overly ambitious slice he was working on, then nodded. “But yeah.”

In that instance, of course, I’d have to get married first and somehow ruin the marriage just in time to have a baby on my own. I didn’t exactly want to do things the way my mom had had to. Though knowing me I wouldn’t be surprised.

His lips pressed together in a way that puzzled me. I wasn’t sure if it was because he was disappointed by my idea or if he was equally as confused as I was.

“We'll just share this one then.” Ben handed me a fork then picked up the bowl of raspberry sauce. “You don't see yourself... I don't know, having a partner with kids? Or you don't mind either way?”

“No- just life doesn’t always work out how you want it to and sometimes you have to entertain other ideas.”

“What's that like?” There was a hint of teasing as he poured the raspberry reduction over the slice of torte.

“Honestly not fun.” I tapped my fork against his. “You first- wait I forgot the candle.”

Something told me my dearest Jam had never had the absolute pleasure of peeing on a stick then waiting a few eternal minutes. But that also meant he’d never known how stunningly beautiful a single line was. It really made you understand why all those women in commercials are twirling in fields.

Thank god I forgot the candle. I was not in the mood for a follow-up question to the little comment I’d made- especially since I was pretty sure he didn’t know what I’d meant.

“Are you going to sing too?” He flashed me a grin.

“Can I hum it?” I asked. “Or is singing what the birthday boy wants?”

“Singing is definitely what the birthday /man/ wants.” He corrected me, then picked the candle up from the counter and plopped it into the slice.

I jokingly rolled my eyes. Technically he was a man but that boyish charm and grin didn’t help his case. To me, he’d be a boy until he was eighty.

“Oh fine.” I smiled and shook my head. “Light it up birthday man.”

He lit the candle then lifted the plate up between us. Ben gave me an expectant look as he leaned into the island with his hip.

You’re lucky I like you.

I groaned then took a deep breath. I did my best rendition of Happy Birthday- interjecting after the first two lines to jokingly tell him I hate him.

“Happy birthday dearest Jammy, happy birthday to you.” I finished my song.

He was laughing by the time I had finished. Leaning in closer he blew out the flame.

“You have a nice voice, you know,” Ben told me, looking back up at me.

“I mean it's not too bad within the tone-deaf whale community- and with a little work maybe I can be considered good to tone-deaf walruses as well.” I winked at him. “I hope that wish was a good one”

“A very good one. Like your voice.” He grinned.  

Ben picked up a fork then stabbed a piece onto the tongs before holding it up to me. Semi horrified I asked if he was trying to feed me. My gaze shifted between the fork and him.

“It's because you're incapacitated. And I've never done it before. Giving you first honours.”

Questionable word choice, Jam Jam. I didn’t want to let him but I remember the deal I’d made with him. He would do less if I let him do more.

“As you wish.” I sighed, then opened my mouth in a way that made me feel like a baby bird.

“Interesting.” He gave me a sweet smile as he spooned- forked…? the piece of cake into my mouth.

I brought my hand up to cover my mouth as I chewed. When I was finished I asked what he thought was interesting. Before taking a bite he told me he’d meant feeding another person.

“Yeah- normally that's reserved for infants...” I agreed as I watched him just about melt as he took a bite, which brought a smile to my face.

“I've only fed a baby once. At least you didn't spit up on me.”

“Have you?” I asked as he ate some more.

I took my fork then cut off a piece of cake and held it up. With a grin, I told him it was my turn. Ben nodded, saying he’d been cute, then opened his mouth. As I put the cake into his mouth I made sure to get a little bit onto his nose.

“Whose baby?” I asked as Ben blinked at me then shot me a flat look.

“The son of an Italian ambassador at a ball.” He scooped up some of the chocolate with one of his fingers then smeared it across one of my cheeks.

I made a face as I felt the chocolate from the cake begin to melt against my skin. I reached down to dip my finger in the raspberry sauce. With a smirk, I reached up and dabbed it onto his lips.

“Lucky duck, I’ve never met a baby.”

“You’ve never met a baby?”

“No.” I shook my head.

He gave me a look of surprise then paused. Ben leaned in with his own smirk to kiss me. I giggled against his lips.

Not a human baby at least. I’d met plenty of animal babies- raised them even. I was twenty-two and somehow I’d never gotten around to meeting an actual baby…

“Tasty.” He commented as he pulled back then went to take more cake.

“I hope you meant the cake.” I chuckled, taking my own piece.

“/Obviously/.” He gave me a sideways glance with a laugh.

“So…” I swung my legs out from the island. “Did you wish for something with a shorter delivery time?”

“Same wish. “ He said. “Hopefully shorter delivery time as of now.”

“You must really want that wish to come true.” I smiled- ignoring the fact that I was dying inside to know what it was.

He told me he really really wanted it to come true and I told him I hoped it did. Ben then gestured to the cake and thanked me. And when I told him any time I really meant it. I liked these moments of “any time” with him.

“Did you ever get yours?” He tilted his head. “A chance?”

I’d forgotten that I’d told him about that. Then again it had been the night of his birthday… so wishes were the last thing on my mind.

I continued trying to block most of that out. At some points, it was harder than others and sleep was still the only place free from the memories. Sometimes high pitched laughter or the sound of things falling was enough to send me into a full blown panic. I just tried to make sure I didn’t put myself in situations that might be hard- and if I did I had an exit plan well thought out. Though usually I could lie and say I was tired, which was enough since I was recovering from my injuries.

“I think so .” I nodded, shaking off the thought. “Though I got a bit of help from a nice prince.”

“Which one?” Ben asked with the corners of his mouth lifting. “You know several.”

I let out a dramatic sigh. He’d been right when he said he’d learned not to trust me. Messing with him was something I just loved to do.

“Gosh you know I didn’t want to tell you this way.” I touched my fingertip against the melted cake that was still on my cheek then tapped it onto his nose. “It’s Wyatt… I’m in love with him.”

His nose scrunched up as he asked if his brother felt the same way.

“I sure hope so- especially considering I'm willing to commit treason for him,” I smirked.

“What kind of treason?” Ben’s eyes narrowed.

He took a step closer then leaned in to kiss my cheek. The cake that had been on the tip of his nose smeared against my skin, causing me to groan.

“Wouldn't falling in love with him be treason enough?” I asked, looking up at him with raised brows.

“Considering I like you far too much, I'd say yes, I suppose.” He smiled a bit as he put both his arms around me. “Can I convince you otherwise?”

I reached out and put my right hand on his waist. Over the fabric of his shirt I could still feel how soft and warm his skin was.

“Well, that's a shame because I've been told I'm very stubborn and I don't think anything could convince me,” I told him.

“Are you sure? Really really sure?”

“Absolutely positive.” I sighed.

Without saying anything else been leaned in and kissed me deeply, lingering for a moment.

“Still sure?” He asked, pulling back just a hair.

“Less sure.” I giggled.

Liar. If anyone can change your mind it’s him.

“I'll try again.” He said with a small smile.

One hand went up to the side of my face while his other arm stayed wrapped around me. I made a surprised noise as he leaned in and kissed me again, though it was deeper and longer than before. I moved closer to him, holding his waist more firmly.

Before Ben, I wasn’t sure I’d ever enjoyed kissing as much. Sure kissing and beyond had been amazing with Alex- but as time went on I began to wonder if things had just been more physical. I’d loved him sure… but kissing Ben was different and felt better. Right.

As we continued kissing Ben ran one of his hands went through my hair. I back on the island a bit, placing the hand that had been holding his waist back onto the counter. To my surprise, my palm made contact with the unfinished cake instead.

At first, I wasn’t sure what to do but it became apparent Ben hadn’t noticed as he deepened the kiss. He again pulled me neared while I leaned in more. My hand went back up to his waist while I grabbed the fabric of his shirt.

One of Ben’s hands went behind my neck pulling me even closer. My grip on his shirt loosened and I reached up to put my hand on his cheek. A few moments later he pulled back in surprise, with the colour of his face flushed from kissing.

“Uh, what-“ He looked between my hand and the cake then let out a laugh. “What'd you do?”

I held back a laugh as I pulled my hand back and wiggled my fingers. My nose scrunched up while I explained that I’d touched the cake. With a smile, I reached up and smeared his other cheek with more chocolate.

“There- now it's even,” I said as he let out a snort.

“Thanks, just what I wanted.” Ben paused then looked down at his shirt with his eyebrows raising at the sight. “Nice, Lia.”

The was a lovely crinkly chocolate stain on his shirt roughly in the shape and size of a small fist. I had to admit it really completed his outfit.

“Well... you said purple wasn't your colour.” I gave him an innocent smile. “And the brown matches your eyes.”

I stuck a finger in my mouth and licked off some of the cake, while Ben reached for some napkins. He quickly wiped the chocolate off his face.

“You just love being coy, don't you?” An amused smile played across his lips.

I took the napkin he was holding and wiped the rest of the cake from my fingers. I doubted Astrid would appreciate chocolate stains on my clothes so I wanted to minimise the risk. However, it made me feel a bit bad about getting cake all over Ben’s shirt.

“I love being a lot of things.” I chuckled.

“But a bird especially, of course.”

I scooted closer to the edge of the island and smirked at him. As I made some chicken noises I pretended to flap my arm in the sling. With a small laugh, Ben reached out and put my arm down.

“Careful there, you're still injured.” He reminded me, as my nose scrunched up.

It was mostly a sore feeling in my shoulder by that point but I still had to be cautious. Despite the pain being less apparent I was still making sure to take my painkillers like clockwork. I had only a few days left of medication but I’d for sure be taking those until they were gone.

“I can't wait until it's healed,” I told him as I swung my legs a bit. “Help me down?”

“You? Asking for help? I should take a picture.” Outside of raising an eyebrow at me, Ben remained motionless.

I gave him a look that showed I wasn’t amused. I’m trying to compromise.

“I can always go back to just doing things myself- no picture needed,” I warned.

“No, no, I have to be good for something.” He snickered, wrapping an arm around my waist to help me down.

A jolt of pain ran up my ankles as I hit the floor but I ignored it. I’d stupidly forgotten to bend my knees. Or I was getting old.

/Practically a cougar./

“You're good for a lot of things.” I looked up at him.

“Probably. Eating for another.” Ben picked up a fork to eat some of the cake that had escaped my little accident.

“Not probably.” I shook my head, glancing at the cake, before adding with some certainty. “Definitely.”

“So vague.” He gave me a sideways glance then ate some more.

“I can be less vague if you want.” I retrieved my own fork from the counter to get another bite.

“Please.” He gestured to me, giving me an amused look as he leaned against the island.

“You're good at making people laugh, you wear cake wonderfully, and you're the most patient person I've ever met.”

Before meeting Ben I thought my mom was the most patient person, but Ben definitely took the cake- literally.

“Hm. Patient?” He asked, seemingly surprised by my comment. “Really?”

“Exceedingly.” I nodded.

“Give me one example.” Ben let out a short laugh.

There were countless times he’d put up with me. I made ill-timed jokes, wasn’t always the most understanding person, could not get along with his brother for the life of me…

“The way you put up with me for starters.” My eyebrows furrowed.

“That doesn’t require much patience believe it or not.”

Ben’s focus shifted to the cake as he reached for my hand and pulled me to his side. A heavy feeling formed in my chest as I felt the heat of his body and smelled his cologne. I leaned in closer.

Play it cool.

“Oh, it certainly does.” I nodded in argument. “There's a good reason Wyatt and I struggle.”

“Okay, that doesn’t surprise me.” He chuckled. “You two always seem at odds with one another.”

“We're working on it... I promise.” I groaned. “He even came and visited me in the hospital.”

Ben looked at me more intently after that revelation, with his head tilting curiously.

“How’d that go?”

“Well, he didn't smother me with my hospital pillow so it definitely could have gone worse.” I chuckled.

“Dramatic.” Ben rolled his eyes.

���Just the way you like me.” I teased, smiling up at him.

“The way I like you is dramatic?”

“Gosh, I hope so...” I mused. “It seems to be my default setting according to your brother.”

I’m sure Wyatt had all sorts of other kind words for me as well- because I certainly would have. Bitchy, horrible, self-centred…

“He’s not wrong.” He laughed before wiggling his eyebrows and adding. “What, are you so overcome with your deep and ravishing feelings for me?”

Ravishing? That’s quite the romance novel vocabulary, isn’t it?

“Yes, my dearest Jammy- I can't contain it any longer. I need you so badly.” I swooned dramatically.

Ben laughed, then dipped me a little.

“Don’t contain it. At all.”

He gave me a small peck and I sighed.

“Oh, Jam I won't.”

Using my good hand I pulled him down to me and kissed him passionately. Ben laughed along with me as I drew back. Keeping his arm around me he pulled me back to my feet.

“You’re sweet.”

“Mmmmm I disagree but thanks.” I gave him a kiss on the cheek.

“You don’t have to agree. I just know it.” Ben smiled then let go of me to start the cleanup.

“Just like I know how patient and kind you are.”

I went to pick up the cake so I could put it back in the fridge. By tomorrow it would probably be gone, but if I left it out much longer it would melt. If people were going to sneak pieces they would at least be properly chilled.

“Ah, flattery. Simple joys of life.” Ben put the dishes in the sink to begin washing up.

“Does it count as flattery if it's true?” I went back for the bowl of raspberry sauce and placed it next to the cake in the fridge.

“I’d say so.” He told me. “You’re obviously sweet and tenacious which is true, but you can take that as flattery.”

My nose scrunched up. Flattery or truth I wasn’t a fan of being showered in compliments.

“If you say so I guess...” I conceded.

“You should get used to the fact that I like to compliment you.” He laughed a bit.

Never going to happen.

“I'm more used to it now than I used to be,” I admitted. “Now the day Wyatt starts complimenting me is the day I'll really flip out.”

I leaned against the counter as I watched him clean. I’d have helped, but I was a bit useless with my arm bundled in a sling. No wonder Wyatt had really milked it when he’d fallen out of the tree. Life was so much easier when you didn’t have to do anything like dishes.

“He does at the right moments.” Ben snickered. “Unexpected but weirdly nice.”

“Not to me, he doesn't... The two of us are far too different I think.” I told him.

“Give it some time. I think you'll eventually get along.” He assured me.

“We're getting along as best we can- just sometimes our stubbornness clashes.”  

“Only sometimes?” Ben spared me a glance, with a small smile.

“Always?” I sighed.

I was trying to be optimistic. Besides we’d had had our moments early on where we’d gotten along. I wasn’t sure if Ben realised just how much I wanted things to work out with Wyatt. There was a bit of potential in my opinion and I thought maybe with some more work we could actually make decent friends.

“Bingo.” Ben splashed me with a bit of water, which I responded to by reaching down into the sink and splashing him back.

“Not true actually,” I argued. “We worked really well together on the pigeon fiasco.”

“Until he, you know, fell out of a tree.”

Ben used his sleeve to wipe some water off his face. /It’s a miracle it’s not all covered in cake./

“That's why I called it a /fiasco/.” I raised my eyebrows.

I’d thought it was hilarious after, but the two of them had really scared me. Poor Ben had slammed into the tree and hit his head, while Wyatt had somehow managed to fall out of a tree. Though for someone who claimed to be experienced I still wasn’t sure how that’d happened.

“There was only one good thing that came out of that day.”

“And what was that?” I asked.

If you say it was slamming into a tree I’m going to splash you again.

“The burritos we made.” He grinned.

There was definitely more to it than just burritos- no matter how good they were. All in all, it had been my best birthday to date.

“You also gave me my favourite flowers.” I smiled softly.

“Second good thing.” Ben looked at me with an even softer, sweeter smile.

He was wrong. There’d been something better than pigeons, or burritos, or flowers.

“And you kissed me just like this,” I said.

I leaned up to give him a kiss on the cheek, which caused his ears to turn a little red.

“I think that was the first time if I'm not mistaken.” He chuckled.

“It was.” I nodded.

I liked that day a lot. It was one of my favourites even. I hadn’t been in the palace that long and Ben didn’t know me well- and even after he got hurt he still did his best to make sure I had a good time.

A good sport.

Ben paused for a moment, going quiet for a little bit.

“Are you happy here?” He mused aloud.

I wasn’t exactly sure where that’d come from. Then again I wasn’t always the best with feelings- at least not when it came to sharing them. If I was unhappy you’d definitely know because I tended to get frustrated easily. But maybe Ben thought my happy moments weren’t genuine.

“Oh um.” I stammered in surprise, then took a second before continuing. “I think so... There's a lot I miss for sure but I like being here and spending time with you- and Viv.”

“Sorry, I know it’s random, I just-.” He shook his head as he put down the dish he was holding and faced me. “I wanted to make sure is all.”

It was funny to me that the master of hiding feelings would broach the subject with me. More was going on with Ben and something told me things weren’t exactly as peachy as he let on. But he wasn’t ready to share so I was just going to have to let go.

“Don't get me wrong there are moments where I'm not having the time of my life.” I motioned to my arm, which caused him to laugh a bit. “And others when I don't feel like I'm doing enough with my free time.”

That was one of the downsides of the Selection. I had all this time on my hands but I was living it up in the palace. There’d been “what if” moments I’d had, where I’d considered what I’d do supposing this worked out between us. But I had nothing tangible yet. The change I wanted the most wasn’t likely to happen any time soon, no matter how much we desperately needed it. I hadn’t made my peace with that fact yet, but I’d accepted it. And all I knew is that I wanted to actually do something to make a difference.

“But for the most part I really am- I promise.” I nodded.

“Alright. Good.” He smiled.

“Don't worry about me too much.” I winked at him. “I'm doing just fine.”

I appreciated his concern, but sometimes I worried that he was a bit too anxious. I could take care of myself. Maybe I could even take care of him if he’d let me.

“Worrying is all I do.” Ben rolled his eyes and clicked his tongue.

Oh trust me, I know.

“Well, maybe it's time to find a new hobby,” I suggested, shaking my head at him.

“I have plenty other hobbies.” He told me as he went to dry his hands off, having finished the dishes.

“I know you do,” I smirked, pointing to the chocolate stain on his shirt.

“Hey, you’re only fuelling my hobbies,” Ben smirked back.

“I'm glad to hear it,” I said.

Well if making out in chocolate cake is a new hobby then sign me up.

I moved away from the counter. There was something I was forgetting, I just couldn’t put my finger on what it was.

“Thank you, by the way. Sweetness continues.”

“Like I said, any time.” I smiled up at him.

Ben leaned down to kiss me softly. When he pulled back he told me he probably needed to go since work was busy.

“Of course.” I nodded. “I should probably get back to my room before Astrid sends a search party since I'm supposed to be taking it easy.”

“Lia, those instructions are there for a reason.” He shot me a flat look.

“If they're there to drive me insane they're certainly working.”

I was terrible at just laying around all day. I needed to be up doing something, anything. It didn’t matter how much I liked reading and all that. I’d finished Pride and Prejudice twice in the past few weeks and that was enough for the foreseeable- no matter how amazing Mr Darcy was.

“For your health.” Ben sighed, as his eyes went to the ceiling. “You and your independence.”

“My health means nothing if I don't have my sanity,” I argued.

“Or your lung.” He raised his eyebrows at me.

I had to admit he had me there. I liked breathing properly and was looking forward to not being winded by something as simple as a flight of stairs.

“Boo you and your logic.” I scrunched up my nose at him.

“My greatest weapon.” He grinned, reaching out to squeeze my hand. “Get back to bed so I can go to my meeting.”

There was something a bit attractive about having him tell me what to do, but in a toned down way.  

Aha! I wanted to get some cake for Astrid.

“Fine.” I sighed. “Let me just grab a piece of cake for Astrid and I promise I'll go.”

“Thank you.” He let go of my hand and began walking backwards. “See you soon.”

Not if I see you first.

“Late gator.” I flashed him one last smile then went back to the fridge.

[opheliagardinier]

cheep shots

I was able to finish this a bit earlier than I was aiming for so I figured I may as well post it.

Thank you so much to Anya @ladyvivienneloyola for this extra af RP and thank you Bri @benjaminschreave for the Ben RP.

word count: 2648

The cake was delicious just like Ben said it would be, which had made me glad I’d had some- or a lot. Viv and I had continued to talk for a bit after we came inside, and we continued on like that until we were gathered around.

Flutes of champagne were passed around as the king prepared to toast. I took two glasses from a passing waiter and held one out to Viv.

“More alcohol.” I smiled, as Viv took the glass. “Excellent.”

She pressed the flute against her glass, glancing over at me in amusement. Since my whole no drinking thing had gone to shit I figured I may as well enjoy it. And if this was anywhere near as good as some of the wines and champagnes I’d seen in the cellar then I was going to be a very happy woman.

“You know, I'm starting to like balls even more now.”

I let out a snort at her comment, trying not to choke as I took a sip of champagne. I didn’t think she’d realised what she said. Oh, sweet Vivienne. Of course, I had taken it that way.

“You and me both, Viv.” I bit back a laugh as I held my glass up against the light to inspect the champagne. “Hm, interesting choice.”

The champagne was a bit too sweet for my liking. It also didn’t seem to have been chilled long enough. But taste and temperature aside I sure as hell was going to drink it, especially knowing that my glass alone likely cost more than the dress I was wearing.

Beside me, Viv followed suit and took a sip. Judging by the slight change in her expression she also wasn’t a fan.

“Why?” She asked, eyeing her own glass, before drinking some more. “Tastes like the regular shit rich people drink at these kinds of stuff.”

“Honestly, I would have expected something a bit better.” I leaned in to whisper with a shrug.

I didn’t want to say it too loud in case the wrong person was in earshot. I’d stepped on enough toes that night, so I was going to be a bit less vocal with any grievances I had.

“Right.” She agreed, taking another drink. “Say, would you think this drink has a pretty high alcohol concentration?”

I shook my head. As alcohol went champagne was pretty mild, though given the carbonation it tended to hit you a bit faster. That coupled with the fact that it usually tasted similar to juice was what made it notorious.

“No, maybe 12%.” I glanced over at her and saw she didn’t look all there. “Hey, are you okay?”

Before she could answer she keeled over beside me as the sounds of screams and sharp pops filled the ballroom. She reached up and put a hand on my shoulder. I looked around in confusion but quickly realised what was going on. Around us, shots were being fired, with guests falling to the floor.

The sour smell of gunpowder hit me, followed by my the familiar scent of iron. Blood.

As I turned back I spotted the same waiter from before who I’d gotten the champagne from. But instead of a tray and glasses, he now held a handgun. After a split second of consideration, I hurled my unfinished glass of champagne towards him. Viv looked up at me as the delicate flute crashed into him sending bubbly and glass shards into his face. There was loud pop as his gun discharged. My ears began to ring, and my heart beat fast as I turned to Viv to see if she was alright. Thankfully there wasn’t a mark on her.

“What did you do that for?” She yelled at me breathlessly, giving me a look of disbelief. “Ah!”

I went to lean in closer to Viv but stopped as I became aware of the searing pain in my arm. I wanted to tell her I hadn’t known what else to do. but found I couldn’t. All I could muster was a cough and a wheezing noise as I gasped for air.

My ears continued to ring as the echoes from the shots around me made my head begin to throb. Viv’s hand tightened on my shoulder as she tried to steady herself. To my surprise, she regained her composure and reached for my other shoulder, where the pain was coming from.

Oh shit.

“Don't freak out but we need to get out of here and get you some-” Viv fell to her knees beside me, taking a few laboured breaths. “Go... find... help.”

I continued gasping for air as the pain spread out from my shoulder, and caused the rest of my body to go numb. I did my best to kneel beside Viv but fell forward. As my arms instinctually went out to catch me I let out a cry as the pain worsened and my vision began to blur.

All because I didn’t like the fucking champagne.

Viv gasped for air, clutching her chest with her unsoiled hand. She gave me one final look before she fell against the ground, unconscious. I did my best to move towards her. I felt the warmth of her skin beneath my palms as I gripped her shoulders through my pain.

“Viv?” I choked.

Black spots started to appear in my vision, while the sounds of screaming and gunshots began to dull. I almost felt warm… and sleepy…

I should sleep.

I let go of Viv and leaned forward against the floor.

What a nice pillow...

After the events of the previous night, I was exhausted. Since waking up from surgery I’d been in and out of consciousness- they’d said the pain medication could do that.

“Lucky” they’d said. Very lucky. It turns out that the quick medical attention I’d received had saved my life. A few minutes more and the blood loss would have killed me- if the oxygen deprivation hadn’t finished the job first.

I was laying in bed, just watching as doctors and nurses went by my room, really unable to do much more. Though that wasn’t my only reason. No one was giving me too many details on the conditions of anyone else and my best hope was catching things in passing.

At some point, I took my eyes away from the door to turn my head to drink. Unable to do much given my injuries the nurses had set up a water bottle with a straw so I could drink when I wanted to- which as it turned out was often given the meds. As I drank a loud noise echoed out of the bottle, warning me that I was nearly out of water.

There were a couple knocks at my door, which caused me to turn my head. I winced as a twinge of pain shot through my shoulder. Slowly. Ben stood in the doorway, holding a vase full of lilies seeming much less put together than his normal self. He had multiple bruises on his face, which I stared at for a moment, before swallowing.

“Everyone decent?” He seemed to force a smile.

“Depends on your definition of decent,” I told him in a hushed tone, as he stepped into my room, shutting the door behind him.

I wasn’t yet able to speak normally, and when I did speak I got tired pretty easily. With one lung out of commision and the other working overtime, it wasn’t a cake walk. Silence was my new best friend- at least for the next couple weeks.

“This might be a stupid question, but how are you feeling?” He asked, walking over.

“Like I’ve been better.” I breathed, leaning back into my pillows, as I eyed his injuries.

He set the vase down beside my water bottle and went to pull up a chair.

“I know, and I know all your injuries, so don’t worry about talking.” His brows furrowed while he looked me over as he sat down. “Just wanted to see how you’re doing”

“Me? Not talking? Good luck with that.” I gave him a weak smile.

I reached out to run my fingertips along his cheek that didn’t have any bruises. I’d had my surgery, was on my painkillers, and had a team of doctors making sure I didn’t develop a post-op infection. I would live. But Ben truly seemed rattled.

“I should be the one asking you how you are,” I said in a voice so soft I wasn’t sure he’d hear.

“Nothing a couple ice packs won’t fix.” He flashed me a crooked smile as he took my hand with his.

I gave him a sceptical look but decided to let it go for now. If he didn’t want to talk about it then now wasn’t the time to ask. That was the last thing he needed.

“And your family… Viv…?”

The last I remembered of Viv was her lifeless body on the floor as I was running out of breath. She’d tried so hard to help me but whatever had been in her drink had stopped her and she had collapsed beside me. Poison. I’d heard the nurses whispering it while they thought I was too far asleep to hear. Dead.

“Family’s okay. I’ve... yet to check on Viv, but from what I heard she’s still sleeping.”

“Sleeping?” I tried to hold back as I felt the urge to cry. “You’re sure?”

I looked away from him and focused on the wall, desperately trying to collect myself. I didn’t want to cry- couldn’t. I needed to keep myself together, if not for myself then for Ben at least. The palace was his home, and home was supposed to be the safest place.

Both his hands wrapped around mine and squeezed.

“Positive.” He told me. “I’ve asked about every single one of you.”

I tried to take a deep breath in order to calm down but only felt pain as I wheezed. Don’t let him see you like this.

“I saw her die. She was on the ground next to me.” I sniffled, turning back to him.

“She didn’t die.” He shook his head, as he spoke to me in a gentle tone. “Viv and other people were poisoned through their drinks, but they were given an antidote in time. She only passed out, never died, alright?”

I leaned forward a bit, trying to keep it all in. Don’t panic. It’s no big deal. You were only shot and a shit ton of people poisoned.

“What the hell happened?” I asked him, with my eyes widening as I pleaded with him. “I’ve heard the doctors and nurses saying people died. And no one will tell me who or why.”

I began to take in shallow breaths as the panic set in. I needed answers. I was sick of sitting in this bed and being treated like a child. I’d been in that room, my friends had been in that room.

“A few guests were the ones who died, no Selected.” Ben pressed his lips together, swallowing before he continued. “As for why we’re still figuring that out. Investigations are ongoing but we’re doing our best.”

“How many?” I whispered, squeezing his hand.

“Fifteen.” Ben sighed, looking away for a moment. “Fifteen people. At my birthday party.”

I took my hand out of his and put it on his cheek. He had nothing to be guilty for. Ben had lived, but he had nothing to be sorry for. He couldn’t have known what would happen.

“And that isn’t your fault.” I shook my head. “So you can’t blame yourself, no matter how much you want to. And it might be selfish of me but I’m happy you didn’t make sixteen.”

He leaned into my hand for a moment. I wished I could take away all of his pain. Ben didn’t deserve what he must have been going through.

“But I am sorry I couldn't protect you, all of you. Prevent all of this.” He gestured to my shoulder.

“Lungs heal, and arteries stop bleeding,” I said, trying to give him a smile. “The worst part of this for me is that I ruined that gorgeous dress and I can’t have alcohol for the foreseeable future. Okay?”

I felt a pang of guilt as I listened to myself lie to him. The scent of gunpowder and blood would haunt me for a long time. And the screaming… I hadn’t really escaped the sound yet. The only time it stopped was when my medication put me to sleep.

“Not okay, but... I appreciate the sentiment.” He did his best to return the smile.

“But you will be, we’ll all be. If not now then eventually.” I stroked his cheek with my thumb. “Even if you don’t feel like it’ll ever happen.”

That part was true. There wasn’t a light at the end of the tunnel yet, but at some point, there would be. I didn’t think any of us could ever forget, we could only let the memories fade.

“I hope so, at least.” He rested his elbow on the bed as he used his fist to prop up his fist.

“I know so.” I grimaced as I tilted my head towards him.

“You should try not to move so much, it's obviously not pleasant,” Ben told me, having noticed my reaction.

I shrugged, which only made it worse. Fuck. People always tell you getting shot hurts, but that doesn’t prepare you for the pain. I’d been kicked by a horse before and compared to this that had been nothing.

“I’m fine.” I lied.

I gritted my teeth as I breathed through the pain. It had to almost be time for my meds again. It just had to be. I’d never been a fan of taking medication but painkillers had become my new hero overnight.

“Ophelia.” He said, slightly admonishing me. “Take care of yourself. Can I call for some medication? Or something to help you sleep?”

“The nurse will come when it’s time for more. And I’ve been sleeping enough.” I tried to sit up higher.

Sleep may have been the only time I didn’t think about what had happened, and I appreciated that, but I hated falling asleep. Every time the medication kicked in it felt like passing out in the ballroom all over again.

Ben put his hand on my uninjured shoulder and gently pushed me back against the bed. I looked up at him with a scowl. I was so over this already.

“Please rest? For me?”

“I hate this.” I sighed.

“Like you said, it'll get better.” He smiled a little, as he leaned forward to press a kiss against my brow. “Faster you rest faster you'll get better.”

“I can’t hear you.” I groaned, closing my eyes, causing him to chuckle.

“I’ll say it again if you need me to.” He leaned back. “But for now I’ll let you rest.”

I sighed and opened my eyes. I didn’t want him to go, but he was probably right. If I wanted to recover quickly I was just going to have to suck it up.

“Will you get me some water?” I asked, eyeing my empty bottle.

“Of course.” He stood up to leave. “I’ll be right back.”

By the time Ben had returned with my water bottle, I must have fallen asleep. It must have been a relief to him. But it wasn’t to me, because the shooting pain in my shoulder made me realise I had missed a dose of medication.

He had done what he’d said and brought me the water I asked for- even leaving a note under one of the bottles.

for your healing hydration needs. please rest.

see you soon, jam.

I fumbled around for my call button. When I found it I pressed it and was left to wait.

[opheliagardinier]

jamboree

I’m sorry for having disappeared recently. I think some of you know that I’m in the process of moving back to the US so things are hectic right now and writing hasn’t been my priority. I also couldn’t post it because of what happened with the last fic.

Speaking of the US happy 4th of July! I forgot it was today, haha but I hope everyone that celebrates it is having a good and SAFE day!

Anywho- I’ll probably be posting the ball fics with Wyatt and Vivienne tomorrow if I can get them written. But like I said haha packing.

Thank you Brianna @benjaminschreave for the RP!

I’ll post a dress edit later! Basically it looks similar to the dress in the cover.

word count:2847

I was positioned in front of the floor length mirror in my room, with all three of my maids fussing over me.

“How about this way?” Louisa asked, pulling my hair up to show me what it would look like in a bun. “Or we can leave it down?”

I nodded. Keeping my hairstyle simple seemed like the best idea. Putting it up would have distracted I thought,

I don’t know what exactly I’d been expecting when I’d told Astrid I wanted to make a statement with my ball outfit but she had gone above and beyond and had more than delivered. The dress was bolder than I could have imagined.

“Suck in,” Astrid instructed.

I did as I was told as I felt her pull at the small zipper on the back of my dress. At first, it felt tight, but when I exhaled I was able to settle into the gown a bit more.

My fingertips brushed against the corset of the dress as I did my best to not focus too much on the upper portion of the gown. I was used to the desire to be bold but tonight was different. Tonight I felt almost naked wearing something that normally would have given me confidence.

Before leaving Astrid pulled a little bit of my hair to the side and fastened it in place with some pins. She told me she just couldn’t let me leave looking like nothing had been done to my hair.

When I entered the ball I wasn’t sure what to do first. Not all of the girls had arrived yet, and anyone else who I knew was otherwise occupied.

After grabbing a glass of water from the bar I made my way around the room and talked to various other guests, none of whom really held my attention that well. But all the same, I still tried to be sociable.

At some point, I caught sight of Ben who was speaking with an older couple. When they had finished their conversation I politely said goodbye to who I’d been speaking with and then snuck up behind him.

“Hey there, birthday boy,” I said, covering his eyes.

I felt his cheeks scrunch up beneath my hands as he smiled.

“Trying to do the job the mask couldn’t?” He asked.

I pulled my hands back and grinned at him.

“I think I'm a bit better than a mask, don't you?”

He turned to face me. For a split second, I wanted to laugh at his mask because it was strange to see him that way but I didn’t. And I wasn’t one to laugh anyway considering that I had a mask on as well and it was definitely over the top.

“It’s possible.” He gave me a smile after giving me a quick once-over. “You look very nice tonight, Lia.”

Why thank you, Jam.” I chuckled, feeling my cheeks heat up just a little as I blushed. “You don't look so bad yourself considering you're an old man now.”

“You’re older than me,” Ben told me, with a flat expression.

I tilted my head in amusement. At least he isn’t focusing on this darn dress… But I almost wanted him to.

“You know, I think the first rule of being a gentleman is that you don't bring up a lady's age.”

“Simply clarifying that I am in no way old.” He stated. “And neither are you.”

I laughed, rolling my eyes at his comment. After a little look around I leaned up to give him a quick kiss on the cheek.

“Old or not I believe congratulations and- gifts are in order.” I smiled up at him as I rubbed the lipstick off of his cheek with one of my thumbs.

“I hope it’s not dentures as a sign of my old age.” His brows raised with expectancy.

I shook my head. Dentures would have been a funny gift and I almost wished I’d thought of it. But I had to say I did like what I’d picked out for him.

“Unfortunately it's harder than you think to get those on such short notice. So I got you the next best thing.”

“And where would this next best gift be?” He asked.

“It's waiting for you outside,” I told him. “But first I'd like to ask if I can steal you for a dance.”

His lips pursed as he pretended to think about it.

“But am I really in the mood to be stolen? That’s the real question.”

I’d always wondered if the Ben I’d been getting to know would be the same person around others that he was when we were alone. I wasn’t sure what I’d expected, but I was glad that he seemed to not change too much.

“I guess I'll just have to go ask someone else to dance- maybe Prince Aran perhaps?” I sighed.

“And deny the birthday prince his dance? Outrageous.” Ben took my hand as he flashed me a smile and whisked me away onto the dance floor.

“Drama queen.” I rolled my eyes.

I place one of my hands on his shoulders while the other went the gently hold the back of his neck.

“King.” Ben corrected, as he put his hands on my waist.

“Prince.” I countered, raising my eyebrows at him.

You aren’t the king yet, Jammy Jam… and hopefully you won’t be for a long time. It wasn’t that I didn’t think he would make a good king- I just didn’t think he was ready. Ben deserved to spend the next few years getting to finish growing up and starting his life without all the pressures that came with the crown his father wore.

“Touché.” He laughed.

“Just keeping you in line.” I teased, giving him a wink.

“An excellent Selected in my book.”

“Excellent?” I smirked at him. “That's a big upgrade from ‘meh’.”

As we swayed to the music I commented about how he seemed like he was in a good mood and he filled me in about his day. It seemed like he’d had a good time with his family- off-key singing in all.

We continued dancing, discussing birthday wishes, and joking. I was hoping he would let me in and tell me what he’d been hoping for, but no such luck. But things seemed like they were always that way with Ben.

Ben, of course, asked me if my birthday wishes had come true, but I returned the vague answers he’d given me. Eventually, he broke me and I told him that I had gotten my wishes, which had been a little bit of peace… and a chance.

“Chance for what?” He asked me, with his brows knitting together.

“That's for me to know.” I gave him a sweet smile as reached up to tap his nose.

His nose wrinkled in response.

“And for me to find out?”

“If you're good I might just tell you.”

“Aren't I good already? He asked.

I told him that I thought being a little too good could make you bad. He asked how with that chuckle of his I loved hearing.

“It adds some mystery. And makes me wonder what you're hiding.” I smirked. “I already told you mine- but have you told me yours?”

“I don't have very many secrets.” Ben shook his head. “Nothing as bad as you're probably imagining.”

“If it isn't so bad then tell me?”

I gave him a soft smile. The more time went on the more I felt like he was holding back, and I could just never understand it. Ben knew almost every dangerous or risky detail of my life… and yet… I couldn’t name one bad thing he’d ever done.

You’re overreacting. He’s probably right… No… stand your ground… sharing is a two-way street.

“I... don't really know what you want to hear.” 

He stopped dancing, causing me to look up at him in surprise.

“Hey, it's okay. I can stop.” I told him in a soft tone, rubbing his arm. “ know we said no secrets but if you aren't comfortable you don't owe me anything.”

I cringed at my own words. I was right… he didn’t owe me anything and I foolishly kept forgetting that. There were nearly a dozen girls here. I wasn’t any more special to him than the rest of them.

“No, it's not that I'm uncomfortable. I just…” He glanced away for a moment then looked back at me as he tried to force a smile. “Why don't we go get that gift you mentioned?”

“Jam.” I murmured, looking at him in confusion as I quietly nodded.

I let out a sigh as I pulled my hand off of his shoulder and instinctually went to rub my arm. I said a hushed apology as I followed his gaze to the balcony doors.

“Don't be sorry. You don't have to be.”

Ben put one of his hands on the small of my back as he guided me towards the doors. I went without saying anything, glancing back towards the room as we went out onto the terrace. He tugged his mask off and rubbed his eyes for a moment as we got outside. I decided to leave mine on, not feeling like letting him clearly see the less than joyful look on my face.

I reached into one of the many potted plants that lined the balcony and pulled out the small box that I’d wrapped earlier in the day.

“I'm sorry if... that was weird. I didn't mean for it to be.” Ben tucked his mask into his pocket, before looking at the box with a little smile that wasn’t quite all there.

I began to say something back, but instead of finishing I just shook my head and held out the box. He eyed me for a moment before taking it with a much more genuine look of happiness.

“Are you sure there's no dentures inside this?”

I let out an unexpected laugh but told him I was sure. Dentures wouldn’t have been such a bad idea. I almost wished I had thought of it.

He began by taking off the bow then tore off the paper and lifted the lid. After pushing aside the tissue paper he reached in and pulled out the chains inside, dangling them before me.

“Are these... necklaces?” He gave me a confused look.

To be fair the pearls on the chain could give anyone the wrong impression.

“Actually it's a chain for your glasses, so you don't lose them, grandma.” I gave him an amused look, having eased up a bit.

“You bought me chains for my glasses?” He laughed, giving the gift a once over. “That's amazing”

“You like them?” I nodded.

Astrid had just about told me off when I’d revealed what my birthday gift was for Ben. She didn’t find it as funny as I- or Ben- had.

“I love them. They'll probably never leave my room, but they're great.” He let out another laugh, then leaned down to give me a quick kiss. “Thank you.”

I reached up behind my head and pulled at the bow that held my mask in place.

“I'm glad, I wasn't sure you would.” I tugged my mask off.

“A grandma needs her tools.” Ben put the chains back into the box.

“And grandchildren.” I laughed.

“I'd need children first.” He joked.

“Slow down there, at least buy me a drink first.” I chuckled.

Thinking about it he sort of already had. That first night after we’d met and he’d caught me in the wine cellar he’d shared a bottle with me.

“Don't worry, that's many years coming.” Ben rolled his eyes, giving me a smile. “No matter who this ends with.”

I let out an overdramatic sigh- choosing to ignore his last comment.

“Thank goodness, I was so worried.” I winked at him.

“Good to know where we stand,” He said in a dry tone, making sure to add a chuckle.

I curiously asked if he wanted children before I could think about it. But to my surprise, he nodded and said he did, and that it was expected of him. I told him that I mattered what he wanted, which he agreed with, but assured me that his only reasoning wasn’t the expectation that came along with being the heir.

“Do you want kids?” He asked, after watching me for a moment.

“I think so,” I answered, looking up at him in surprise but still managing to nod. Unfortunately, a frown also crept in. “I just never really thought it was an option for me. But if I could I'd be happy.”

“Why did you never think it was an option?” Ben inquired.

“It would be risky for them I always thought…” I shifted my gaze from Ben towards the garden sprawled out beneath the balcony. “And Alex never wanted them, so I haven't really thought about it too much the past few years.” “Regardless of Alex, did you want them?”

“I did,” I answered, surprised by how confident I sounded.

I was pretty sure I’d had the world’s best mother and that I could never live up to that. Part of me thought it would be unfair to any children I might have.

“Then I think that’s settled. Mostly, at least.”

Ben gave me a small smile and told me he hadn’t been expecting to talk about children that evening. It was fair to say the feeling was mutual. The night was young and it already seemed like it had been a roller coaster.

“Really.” I scrunched up my nose as I gave him a smile. “Because that was the whole reason I dragged you out here.”

“A very coercive woman.” He gave a pointed look as he tugged my hand to lead me back towards the doors.

“I didn't threaten you though.” I laughed, relaxing more as I held his hand back. “You came out here to spend time with your favourite bird.”

“Did I? Thanks for refreshing my memory.” Ben looked down at me in amusement.

“Anytime.” I smiled up at him. “I've got to make sure my favourite grandma doesn't forget things- which can be hard in your old age.”

We joked more about his future dentures and I told him that if he asked nicely I might even put them in the glass for him. He seemed horrified at the thought, telling me it was gross and that he’d never ask anyone to do that for him.

“When someone cares about you then you shouldn't have to ask.” I snorted.

“My point is, I wouldn't even expect it.” He smiled.

“Well I'm pretty sure I've told you before- expect the unexpected.”

He told me he’d make it a priority as we stopped just short of the ballroom doors, still out of sight from everyone. Ben leaned forward and kissed my forehead, which sent a small shock down along my spine.

“Thank you again, for the gift”

“You're welcome, grandma.” I smiled up at him, looking back towards the ballroom for a moment. “Even if you missed the mark.”

I leaned up and kissed his cheek then took a step back.

“Next time I won't.” Ben chuckled, as he went to take his mask out of his pocket.

“Let's hope not.” I watched him slip his mask back on, then remembered my own and lifted it up to my face. “Help me?”

I turned around and Ben tied the ribbons for me, perfectly securing my mask back in place.

“That shouldn't fall off for the rest of the night.” He told me.

“Good.” I turned back to him. “Can't have anyone knowing who I am.”

I ran my fingertips over my mask as I made sure it was where it should be, then I thanked him.

“Enjoy some cake for me?”

Ben took a step in the direction of the doors, as I gave him a curious look.

“You're not having any?” I asked, also moving towards the doors.

That feeling of not getting the full story began to creep in again…

Stop it.

With a sigh, he told me that he wouldn’t be having any just yet. I must have looked dumbfounded because he laughed at me and promised that he’d get a piece at the end of the night.

“I'm going to be really upset if I find out you didn't get any cake.” I threw him a pointed look. “Especially when I'm expecting that it's chocolate.”

“It shouldn't disappoint there.” He grinned. “I heard it's delicious.”

“I'll just have to go find out, won't I?”

I gave him one last smile- that hopefully didn’t look as forced as it felt- as I reached forward and pulled the door open for him. He flashed me a smile and told me to enjoy it as he went through. “I'll do my best.” I nodded, rubbing my arm.

“See you later, Lia.”

“Bye, Jam,” I mumbled as I watched him walk away.

[opheliagardinier]

a bird in edgewise

Sorry, this is late! There was some drama with this. I’d sworn I had written this as we RPed but then I went back to the doc later and it had vanished. Turns out I’d accidentally started two docs with the RP and mislabeled the writing one. After a heart attack and a few days of panic, I finally found it again thank goodness.

Thank you to Bri @benjaminschreave for the RP!

word count: 3886

The sun was warm against my skin as I laid on the bench with my eyes closed and legs dangling over the edge. Even through my eyelids, I could see the light coming from up above. Normally I would have turned away but it gave me something to focus on.

When I was little my mother used to tell me never to stare straight at the sun, because if I did I might go blind. Little did I know that the majority of my life I was blind in a way. I never saw the struggle or the worry.

Around me, birds chirped away and bees buzzed by. I’d always appreciated gardens- especially the one my grandmother had back in Sonage- but somehow I felt like I’d never understood what a luxury that was.

“Lia?”

Ben.

My eyes shot open and I looked up to see Ben resting his arms on the back of the bench. He stared down at me with his eyebrows furrowed in concern.

“Jam?” I whispered.

“What are you doing out here?”

Avoiding Wyatt... and you...

“I’m just enjoying the sun.” I sighed, brushing some stray hair out of my face.

He asked if he could sit, using his chin to gesture to the bench. I let out a sigh as I sat up and scooted over.

I wasn’t exactly sure what to say to him. The last few days had been spent with me worried sick over exactly this moment.

Ben seemed to hesitate for a moment before sitting down beside me on the bench.

“I... can leave if you’re more comfortable.” He glanced over at me, with his face still contorted with worry.

“You don’t have to.” I shook my head, looking over at him, then took a deep breath.

It wasn’t that I wanted him to go, I just didn’t know what to say to him. Or if Wyatt had tipped him off in any way. There was so much uncertainty.

As his lips pressed together I would have given anything to know what he was thinking. Because even if his brother hadn’t said anything to him he would have hopefully noticed my recent absence.

“Okay.” He said, looking directly at me, then paused. “Would it be insensitive of me to say you don't look alright?”

I let out a soft chuckle chalked full of the exhaustion I felt, then impulsively leaned forward and kissed him. All I wanted was one moment before I went and ruined everything. I wanted one last good thing. One moment where I maybe didn’t feel like absolute shit.

Ben gently put a hand on my arm and pulled away.

He knows.

“Lia.”

Without saying anything I scooted to the other side of the bench. Leaning forward I began to study the grass intently.

“Wyatt told you, didn’t he?” I murmured.

Ben sighed, running a hand over the top of his hair. He then nodded once.

I felt like I could cry. Wyatt had taken away an opportunity from me.

I wanted to be the one to tell you- and on my terms.

“He mentioned a thought.” Ben scooted closer and put his hand over mine. “But I think it would be best if I heard it from you.”

I took a deep breath as I tried to collect my thoughts. Wyatt hadn’t been right, but a crime had still been committed. And “justice” could still easily be doled out if Ben so wished.

He isn’t like that.

I wanted to believe myself and I knew I should… but still, that lingering fear was always there weighing on me.

“Ben,” I sighed, looking over at him. “I’ve wanted to tell you, I just never had the words and wanted to do it when I was ready.”

I realised that was the first time I hadn’t called him by the nickname I’d given him. Somehow that right felt like it had been stripped away from me.

“I understand. It doesn't have to be now if you're not ready.”

No, I need to do this now. I didn’t feel like I had an option. If Wyatt had told him anything I had to clear the whole mess up- not matter if I wasn’t ready or if I didn’t want to.

“I want to tell you.” I half lied as I curled my fingers around his. “Just know that it doesn’t change anything I’ve said to you or done. But you’re allowed to be angry or upset.”

I’d been ready the last time I’d told someone and it hadn’t turned out well. If things were going to get ugly then I’d rather it happen sooner rather than later. I didn’t want history to repeat itself.

“I can’t see myself getting like that, but alright.” Ben nodded.

I took another deep breath. I never thought the last guy would react so poorly, yet he had. So I was prepared for every possible outcome.

“Can I know what Wyatt told you?” I looked over at him.

“He mentioned things with your last boyfriend didn't end too well...and how some of the other things you mentioned made it seem like he hurt you, but-...but also knows something you did that would get you in trouble.”

I nodded as he spoke about Alex, acknowledging that he was right about that, but then shook my head at the last bit.

For the most part, I’d done very little in my life that could get me into trouble. By the time I was old enough to really cause problems, my mother had effectively put a stop to all of it.

“He’s wrong.” I took a deep breath. “About the baby I mean.”

“He said he could be wrong, but with the things he explained... it made sense even to me. He just wanted me to know in case it was true.”

I still wasn’t sure what all Wyatt had told his brother. Given that I hadn’t given him very much information I knew he must have based his assumptions off of what Lou had said to him.

“There was a baby, but I didn’t have it.”

Oh shit… that just makes it sound like...

Ben expectantly blinked at me.

“I’m the baby.” I pointed at myself and gave him a weak smile.

Ben seemed to struggle to understand what I’d meant. But that was my fault. I should have just yelled “Surprise, I’m an Eight!” or a Seven or whatever was going on with the caste system these days.

“I don’t understand.” He told me. “This has to do with your parents?”

Technically yes.

I nodded and pulled my hand back. Then without saying anything I stood and took a few steps away from the bench. I was preparing for the angry words and the insults.

This is where Alex lost it.

“So you were the baby born out of wedlock, and your boyfriend left you when he found out?”

I looked back over my shoulder at him, before facing the gardens again.

I wished Alex had left me. I wish he’d just wordlessly disappeared. But he didn’t instead choosing to say every awful thing he could think of, including his threats to turn me in.

When I was ready I took another deep breath and went back to the bench and stood in front of Ben.

“He broke off our engagement and threatened to turn me and my mother in.”

Ben looked up at me, narrowing his eyes. He seemed angry in a way, but not at me. Somehow there was still a softness to him and I relaxed a little.

“And that’s why you had to disappear for a few months?”

I knelt down in from of him.

“No.” I shook my head and put my hands on his knees. “After everything happened I went through a depressive episode and I needed to get help.”

Depression had been something I’d struggled with on and off most of my life, with episodes occurring more frequently in recent years. But as I’d gotten older I’d learned that asking for help wasn’t something to be ashamed of. Still- I struggled to openly speak about it at times.

“I... you don’t have to be embarrassed about that. If you are.” Ben put his hands over mine. “Or feel like you can’t talk about it.”

His words made my heart race a little. It felt so good to have someone say to me. Somehow it was exactly what I needed to hear. But that had always amazed me about Ben. He could never say the wrong thing.

“I’m not embarrassed,” I assured him, shaking my head. “But it’s something you should know about. Because I don’t want to hide things from you.”

“I don’t want to hide things from one another either.” Ben smiled a bit.

“I hope you know this doesn’t mean I’m going to show you me beak.” I chuckled softly, standing up again, though Ben still kept a hold of one of my hands.

“Wouldn’t dream of asking.” Ben laughed softly as he stood up and pulled me into a hug.

I leaned against him and wrapped my arms around him, pulling him close. For some reason, I couldn’t remember the last time I’d been hugged that way. The last real hug I’d gotten had been from my mother at my send-off when she’d desperately clung to me.

“Thank you,” I whispered.

“Nothing to thank me for.” He softly placed a kiss on the top of my head.

I smiled up at him. He was wrong, but just then I’d let him be right.

“My dearest Jam would you perhaps give this technical Eight a kiss?” I batted my eyelashes at him. “She’s been having a hard time recently and it might make her feel better.”

Ben let out a laugh.

“I think something can be arranged.”

He leaned down and kissed me, with one hand moving up to cup the side of my face. I closed my eyes and ran my hand along his back. Ben’s thumb brushed along my cheek as he continued kissing me. While I tried to stand up higher on my tiptoes his other hand went to my waist to pull me closer. For a moment I paused but then reached up to place on the back of his head, feeling his soft hair as it brushed against my fingertips.

“Feeling better?” He asked when he pulled back, smiling down at me.

I nodded. Nothing like a good old kiss to make you forget some of the troubles of the world.

“Definitely.” I grinned. “It would have been a real shame if you couldn’t have helped me out because the last I checked the kitchen was all out of kisses.”

“Would be interesting if we started supplying kisses.” He mused.

I suddenly burst out laughing. It was enough to catch even myself off guard. For the past few days, I’d been so caught up in my anxiety that it was like I’d forgotten how to breathe. But this was real and felt good.

I leaned up to give him a quick kiss on the cheek, then pulled back.

“I know they say kiss the chef- but I’d rather kiss the prince any day.”

“And I might just learn to like birds because of you,” Ben told me, tilting my head up so he could tap my nose.

I savoured the touch for a moment. It was amazing to me how something so simple and familiar could comfort me so much. I’d learned to hide things away and hide within the safety of home, but this tiny risky thing suddenly didn’t seem so scary.

“What else can I get you to like because of me?” I flashed him a smile, then tapped his nose back.

“I don’t know. Lettuce is out of the question.” Ben tugged at my hand, pulling him back down onto the bench.

He drew me close to him and wrapped his arms around my shoulder. I leaned back against him, reaching one of my hands up to rest on his arm.

“I’m going to start sneaking lettuce into your food,” I told him.

“There’s nothing sneaky about lettuce. I’d find it and throw it all away.” He looked down at me.

“The lettuce doesn’t have to be sneaky because I’m sneaky enough.” I shrugged. “Usually…”

“Usually?” Ben questioned.

I sighed. Maybe Wyatt hadn’t told his brother everything. But in honour of our new promise, to tell the truth, I decided I may as well just let it out.

“Your brother had to help me into bed.”

In retrospect that could have been taken the wrong way- but Wyatt had in fact been in my bedroom and he’d had to help me like a was a toddler.

You were drinking tequila like it was water for Christ’s sake.

“Mm, he mentioned you got a little tipsy that night,” Ben smirked down at me.

“Tipsy?” I chuckled. “Jam, I forgot my shoes and had to walk across town barefoot.”

“Wyatt let you walk all the way back to the palace without shoes?” Ben raised an eyebrow.

Sweetheart, I got drunk in a club with your brother.

“Out of everything I like how that’s your biggest problem with what happened.”

“Well, as much as he complains I know Wyatt wouldn’t have done anything less than take care of you,” Ben told me. “Excluding any shoe mishaps.”

Wyatt had just been lucky I hadn’t set my mind on disappearing. If I had wanted to I could have easily slipped away into the crowd. Because losing things and disappearing was what I did best when I was drunk.

“It must be nice getting to trust someone that much.”

“Comes with being brothers, I guess. Though I’d trust my sisters the same way.”

“I wouldn’t know.” I glanced back at him. “So I have to take your word for it.”

“You have Kit though right? The best friend no one can replace.” Ben gave me a small smile.

If Kit were like a brother that was in love with me then I suppose Ben would have been right.

“Unfortunately I think I'll be seeing a lot less of him.” I sighed. “And anyway, it's different than having a sibling I think.”

“Mmhmm.” His brows knitted together. “Because of the Selection?”

Given our new honesty policy, I figured I may as well tell him. It wasn’t that I didn’t like telling people the truth- but that I was selective over who got told what. Ben, however- was probably the one person who should know.

“He’s getting married,” I explained, looking out at the garden. “But because of the whole honesty thing, I should also tell you that a few months ago he told me he loves me.”

“And now he’s engaged?”

He looked down at me in surprise- a sentiment which I shared. I’d never liked Ivy but I’d also never been too worried about her and Kit. Somehow she didn’t seem like she’d ever have the nerve to follow through, but then again they were both from well known acting families and to the outside world it seemed like a match made in heaven. But to me, it was a match made in a 78th-floor office of a PR firm in downtown Angeles.

“Yep.” I nodded. “I give it a year- two tops.”

“If that.” Ben scoffed, before musing. “Is it safe for me to assume you didn’t feel the same way?”

Safe? I wished there was a word that meant safer than- because the word didn’t feel strong enough.

“I’m deeply in love with Kit and have been dreaming of a June wedding since I met him.”

I rolled my eyes. Ick. I’d be lying if some part of me hadn’t wondered about the two of us somewhere in our teen years but it was fleeting and stupid.

“I expect an invitation. June 15th is a perfect day I’m told.”

“Invitation? You’re the maid of honour so you better be there.”

“Then I should tell you now purple really isn’t my colour.” Ben gave me a serious look.

Ben warned me that purple wasn’t his colour as a serious expression played across his face.

“Prince or not you’re wearing the same dress as the rest of the bridesmaids.” I held my finger up at him.

“Good luck with that.” He smirked.

I looked up at him with a sweet smile. Ben had yet to see me in action but I made a killing in debates. I think it came from all those years of lying about who’d eaten the cookie dough out of the fridge or broken the lamp.

“No one says no to the bride.”

“And yet here we are.” Ben raised his eye as if to challenge me.

“Why do I get the feeling you aren’t used to being told what to do?” I tilted my head.

Okay, it’s obvious- you’re a prince.

“On the contrary. I just like the debate.” He told me.

Did he now? Well, he was on if that’s what he wanted. He wouldn’t win, but I’d certainly enjoy watching him try.

“Well there's no debate here- you're wearing purple, my dearest Jam.”

I could hear a hint of a smile as he sighed.

“Only because you’re the bride.”

“You spoil me, you know that?” I lightly patted one of his arms that was wrapped around me.

With a chuckle, he told me he enjoyed it. Having perked up quite a bit I sarcastically asked him if he enjoyed spoiling me as much as he enjoyed me. I gave him a hopeful smile.

“Meh.” He flashed me a smile.

I leaned my head back against his shoulder.

“Wow, I've earned one whole "meh" from a prince of Illéa. I'll make sure to list that under special skills when I have to go for job interviews.”

I wasn’t sure it had occurred to Ben as it had to me, but after all, this was over I was in for a big adjustment. As much as I loved spending time with him I had to consider the very real and likely possibility that we wouldn’t end up together. And that meant that as a newly minted Three I’d soon be searching for jobs.

“If you’re lucky you might earn a “meh” with a shrug.” Ben joked.

“Oh? How would I earn one of those? You know- if I theoretically wanted one.” I asked, playing along.

Ben thought for a moment before telling me that it all depended on what I had to offer. “Sarcasm, humour, kisses, chocolate kisses, a rant on the socioeconomic structure of our country, tequila- the list goes on and on.”

The last bit wasn’t the least bit serious. My tequila days were over- lesson learned.

“Minus the tequila, I’ll take one of each.”

I turned my hand to look at him. He gave me one of his signature crooked smiles.

“One of each is a tall order, Jam. Where do I start?”

“Humor seems like a safe first step.”

“Mountains aren't just funny- they're hill areas.”

Ben paused for a second then let out a chuckle.

“Alright, that was decent. 6 out of 10.”

“I always aim for at least decent.” I rolled my eyes. “So what's next on the agenda? I want to earn that meh with a shrug”

We continued on to sarcasm, with me teasing him that I was never sarcastic and couldn’t manage in the most emotionless tone I could muster. Ben gave me his props in an amused tone. “Next?”

“Are the chocolate kisses actual Hershey kisses?”

“Yeah,” I told him. “Unless you think I'm planning on eating a bunch of chocolate then kissing you- which I wasn't.”

His lips pursed a little, giving me the urge to laugh.

I liked these moments with Ben. These moments of nonsense and banter were what I’d started to look forward to each day. And as bad as it sounded it was one of the first things I worried about losing after everything with Wyatt.

“Mildly disappointed.“ He gave me a small smile. “We can save that for later. The rant too. Which leaves…”

Oh, you tricky boy.

I was really looking forward to that rant.” I let out a sigh and pulled his arms off of me as I went to stand up. “I don't think anything else was left.”

I smirked back at him. Ben stood, crossing his arms as he raised a brow at me. He argued that I was mistaken. I took another step back, telling him that I didn’t think I was.

“Yes, you are.” He stepped closer, catching my hand.

“I thought we were leaving everything until later.” I looked down at his hand.

“Nope. Starts with a k ends with an s.”

“Kittens?” My face lit up at the thought.

I knew what he was getting at, but if he really wanted it he was going to have to work for it. I’d given him plenty of easy passes so far.

Noted, but no.” He squeezed my hand. “I thought you wanted my shrug and a meh.”

“Maybe I do and maybe I don't.” I teased, pulling my hand back with a smile.

I took a few more steps away from him. Ben narrowed his eyes, following me, with a playful expression.

“Lia.”

“Jam.”

I turned away and began to skip off. I heard Ben sigh before he started walking after me. It didn’t take much for him to catch up.

“What if I asked nicely?”

“What if I said no nicely?” I faced him again and flashed him a smile.

“I let out a cry of surprise as Ben took one big step towards me and wrapped his arms around my waist.

“Then you’ve forced my hand, Bec.” He grinned down at me.

“Nope.” I laughed, shaking my head.

I pursed my lips just as he leaned down to give me a quick peck.

“Yes.”

“That's not fair,” I argued.

I took a quick second to try and memorise the moment. I wasn’t sure how things would end between the two of us but regardless this was one of those things I just wanted to remember. I wanted to be able to recall every detail.

“Sure it is. I’m just jogging your memory.” Ben countered.

“Well, I don't think I remember so…” I shrugged. “Such a shame.”

“Then maybe I should try again.”

Without waiting for him I stood up onto my tiptoes and put a hand on the back of his neck. I pulled him down to kiss him. Ben smiled against my lips as his arms ever so slightly tightened around my waist.

I chuckled at the way he’d so easily gone with everything as I gently stroked the back of his neck. Ben slowly moved one of his hands up so that he could run it through my hair, while I pulled him closer. He drew me up a bit higher, causing me to make a noise of surprise.

Ben kept his eyes shut for a moment when he eventually pulled back. He gave me a small smile as I rested my head against his chest for a moment

“Meh.” I lifted my head to look up at him.

[opheliagardinier]

close encounters of the bird kind

Alrighty, it took a lot more time to write and edit this than I expected, but here this is. I know it says challenge three point five but this fic actually comes before the challenge three fic, which I’ll be posting right now as well.

Thank you so much to Brianna @benjaminschreave for the RP, Simone @darcyduncan for reading through this for me and telling me what to fix, and thank you to Anya @ladyvivienneloyola for just being there for me because oh my god the writing is beyond time-consuming (and can cause injuries).

Warning: possible swearing (and heads up this is the last time I’m going to put up the warning in my AN- just assume there’s swearing in anything I post)

bird word count: 6153

I was up on the rooftop of the palace waiting for Ben. My little surprise had arrived a few hours before and since then I’d been keeping a close watch on it- or them. The only thing missing was the guest of honour, who I was on high alert for.

From behind me, I heard the roof door open and I turned to see Ben take a few skips towards where I stood.

“Lia?” He questioned, raising his eyebrows as he spotted the large pen I guarded. “What’s this…”

A look somewhere in the range of “oh shit” crossed my face. He couldn’t see everything just yet. I dashed over to Ben and covered his eyes.

“Hey there” I let out a small laugh.

“Is this another prank? Because your track record isn’t the greatest.”

I shook my head, not that he could see. Even if it would be something that I’d definitely do today wasn’t about childish games. It was about having a good time.

“Not at all.” I moved behind him, keeping one hand still over his eyes, then placed the other over his eyes as a precaution. “Thank goodness for high heels.”

I chuckled a bit at my comment. Ben was at least seven inches taller than me but in heels that shrank to only four.

“Still, not sure how I feel about your surprises anymore.” Ben put one of his hands over mine as he tried to remove mine.

“Nice try.” I kept my hands where they were and pushed him towards the pen.

Ben let out a small groan, stumbling slightly. I let a hand down for a moment to catch his waist to keep him from falling, but then quickly covered his eyes once more.

“I hear noises.” He told me. “Weird ones. Am I going to be attacked?”

“Attacked by adorableness.”

He did his best to sneak a look with no luck. Ben told me he wasn’t convinced in that sceptical tone of his that was becoming more familiar. Dare I say cute…

We stopped walking and I positioned him next to the gate. I quickly pulled back my hands. He blinked a few times as he tried to readjust his eyes to the light.

“Surprise!” I exclaimed, smiling up at him expectantly as I went to his side.

“More birds?” He asked, giving me a wary glance.

“Baby birds.” I corrected, going to towards the pen door.

“You’re very determined to fuel my phobia aren’t you?” Ben stayed where he was as he watched the chicks run around.

I walked back to Ben and took his head. In a soothing tone, I assured him that it was okay.

“Come on.” I inclined my head towards the gate. “They're tiny and harmless.”

Ben sighed in defeat and let me walk him to the gate of the pen. As I opened the door and pulled him inside I still kept hold of his hand. Without a second to waste the ducklings and chicks excitedly swarmed around us, peeping happily.

“Jam?” I let out a giggle. I glanced over at him, watching as he made a face.

“They’re loud.” He observed after a few moments of silence.

Aren’t all babies?

“They think you have food.” I chuckled.

I let go of his hand and went to sit on the ground. Ben side eyed me as he asked if I did have food. I looked up at him as I pointed to a table on the other side of the pen and told him there were some oats in a bag.

A few of the chicks jumped into my lap, which filled my heart with fluffy gooiness. I’d always loved baby animals, though growing up surrounded by them had made that a given. Grapes weren’t the only things we’d raised.

“I’ll leave you to it,” Ben told me, crossing his arms.

“Will you get it for me?” I asked, looking up at him.

He nodded and obligingly walked over to the table, doing his best to avoid the birds. A few moments later he held out the bag. I could tell he was likely fighting off the urge to swat the babies away from him as he’d been able to do with the pigeons.

I took the bag from him and thanked him with a small smile. Reaching in I took a small handful of oats, which caused the babies to go berserk. As they excitedly ate from my hand I giggled at the sensation.

Ben continued to stand there, just watching me and commenting on how wild they all were. I assured him they wouldn’t hurt him and reached up to grab his hand so I could pull him down next to me.

“That’s what they want you to think.” He said, as he hesitantly knelt beside me.

“Shush, they're babies.” With a grin, I pushed on his shoulder lightly to get him to sit all the way down.

Ben sat beside me with a grunt, before grumbling something about his theory of how birds start them young.

“You can be so dramatic, you know that?” I rolled my eyes before I reached into the bag to get a handful of oats, which I then put into one of his hands.

“I do. Blame my parents.” Ben made a face as the babies surrounded him, then threw the oats to the ground.

“Oh come on. At last, try to enjoy this a little. Do you know how hard it was to sneak them all up here without you finding out?”

It had actually been extremely difficult to manage to pull it all off. I’d discovered that without Wyatt’s help acquiring live animals- specifically birds was much easier said than done. The good thing was I had needed a distraction. The last few days there had been radio silence on the Kit front and I’d needed a worthy distraction.

“Very difficult I’d imagine.” Ben gave me a resigned look. “If I feed a couple will you be satisfied?”

“Only if you feel comfortable with it.” I stood up and brushed my jeans off. “We can go.”

Ben sighed and reached for my hand. To my surprise, he pulled me back down.

“No, I’m sorry, we can stay.” As if to show me he was fine he picked up a few oats and held out his hand so the babies could eat from it. “Not... so bad.”

I chuckled softly. Sometimes I wasn’t sure what to make of him. Ben clearly hated the whole thing but still he was willing to try and please me enough that he’d face the bloodthirsty beasts before us.

“You don't need to try and impress me. I've already spent a lot of time with them.” I glanced over at him. “I may be stubborn sometimes but I'm willing to admit this wasn’t the brightest idea.”

“Who says I’m trying to impress you? This is all for myself.” He smirked.

“Is it now? Then you won't mind if I leave you in here alone.” I began to stand up again.

“Um, you’re not going anywhere.” Ben tugged me back down beside him, then brushed the oats off his pants. “This is all your idea, you have to see it through.”

I looked over at him. The way this grown man- a prince nonetheless- could be about baby birds was amusing, to say the least.

“I already accomplished what I wanted.” I smiled as the chicks swarmed once more. “It was adorable but I'm ready to move on.”

Ben asked where we’d move on to, as an amused look played across his face. With a shrug, I told him that I hadn’t had a set plan, and had figured we’d see where the day took us.

“And where do you see this going at the moment?”

“That's quite the loaded question,” I smirked at him.

“It can be.” He grinned back. “Depends on what you’re thinking.”

“Well, I have to say it depends on how you're feeling after your close encounter with the all these bloodthirsty birds.” I joked.

I felt like with Ben there was hardly ever a serious moment between us. I wasn’t sure whether that was good or bad just yet. But for now, I figured I may as well enjoy it. He was a fun guy to be around.

“Surprisingly optimistic.” He commented. “Not about the birds, of course, can’t have you confused.”

“Surprisingly optimistic about...?”

“What you’re thinking about doing next.” Ben stood and offered me his hand, which I took.

“Well, are you feeling adventurous, hungry, spontaneous....?”

Personally, I was hungry, but given the ordeal, I’d just put Ben through it only seemed fair that he got to pick something.

“Is all three an option?” He queried.

Ben opened the pen door and ushered me out in a hurry. I rolled my eyes to myself.

“Look at you.” I teased with a smile. “Getting all excited.”

“What hunger can do to a man.”

He gave me a small smirk, causing me to shake my head with laughter.

“Oh how precious you are, Jam.”

“Precious? Not what a guy hopes to hear.” Ben let out a short laugh.

“Dear?” I offered, with a smile.

He made a “so-so” gesture with his hand. Hmmmmm… I need another one… Oh!

“Darling?” I looked up at Ben.

“That one’s bolder.” His brows raised slightly.

“Is it really bold if it's true?”

Oh, now that was a bit bold. Well, too late. Sometimes I forgot where I was and who I was with...

“That I’m darling?”

“You're honestly going to act shocked?” I rolled my eyes at him.

I had highly doubted that he’d never been called those things or anything similar. The man was a prince for Christ’s sake. He’d probably been having girls throw themselves at him left and right his entire life.

“When no one has referred to me like that before, I am a little bit.” He shrugged.

Half of Illéa thinks you were making out with a girl in a club mere weeks ago… And this is what shocks you…?

“I'm sorry, I can stick to adorable grandmother if you'd like.” I chuckled. “Or perhaps Pigeon Whisperer?”

“What about you? Toucan Extraordinaire?” Ben let out a small laugh as he tapped my nose with a single finger, which caused it to scrunch up.

“Don't say that too loudly or you'll give my secret away.”

Suddenly Ben was leaning in close, causing my mind to race. Somehow I didn’t expect it… Aside from a hug, I wasn’t sure we’d been this close before.

“Toucan Extraordinaire,” He smiled, lowering his tone as he spoke, which made me unexpectedly let out a giggle.

“Pigeon Whisperer,” I whispered, looking up at him with a grin as I moved a little closer.

“Lia-Bec.” He said in a hushed chuckle.

Ben paused briefly then closed the distance between us, kissing me softly. I kissed him back for a moment before I pulled away.

“You didn't ask,” I told him softly.

He blinked at me in surprise. Well, you didn’t...

“Can I kiss you? Again?” He asked quietly, giving me one of his signature smiles.

“You may.” I nodded, with a chuckle.

I reached up to touch the side of his face as Ben put one of his hands on my waist. Then he leaned down once more and kissed me with a smile. I giggled against his lips, wrapping my free arm around his neck. We continued to kiss for I wasn’t sure how long.

“I think we can refrain from the ‘grandmother’ part of my nickname from now on.” Ben chuckled, as he pulled back.

I rather liked calling him a grandmother. In fact, if I was still around by the time his birthday came around I had the perfect gift in mind. And it wasn’t a t-shirt that said ‘world’s best grandma’.

“I make no promises.” I shook my head looking up at him with a blush across my face.

“You really want to associate me with a grandmother?”

“Hey, they're lovable and bake cookies,” I argued.

Unless your name is Kathryn Gardinier- in which case you make things like palmiers for bake sales. Or at least she would have if I’d gone to a normal school and had ever needed baked goods.

“And she’s also your grandma.” He countered.

“Fine. I guess Jam will just have to do.” I sighed, pausing slightly to think. “Or maybe even Jammy.”

“I like Jam.” He smirked. Ben reached for my hand and tugged me towards the roof door.

We kept joking a bit as we left the rooftop and headed inside. As usual Ben beat me to the door and I eyed him as I walked inside. I wasn’t used to having things done for me, nor was I particularly comfortable with it.

Ben asked once more where I wanted to go and I replied with the kitchen, which the grumble of my stomach confirmed. When asked if I was craving anything specific I told him wine and chocolate but that I thought it was probably a bit early for wine, which he agreed with.

As we headed off I was hit with the realisation that I didn’t know all that much about Ben. I’d just kissed a boy that was nearly a stranger. Though that can easily be done. I lived in his home- sure, and we joked to no end… but there needed to be more.

I stopped walking and looked around for a moment. Ben paused as well.

“What’s wrong?”

“If you could be doing anything, anywhere right now what would it be and where?” I asked, looking up at him.

He glanced away for a moment, as he considered, then looked back at me with a smile.

“I guess... the beach. Haven’t been in a while.”

“Then why don't we go there?” I tugged at his hand.

“Spontaneity it is.” Ben let out a laugh and began to guide us in the direction of the kitchens.

“After we get the chocolate?” I threw him a hopeful smile.

“Ah, of course. Most important. Chocolate first.” Ben agreed.

“Thank goodness.”

I leaned against him slightly as we walked. He teased me about the chocolate as we went down the stairs, heading towards the kitchen.

“Let's just say I wouldn't be as-” I paused to think, “Nice without chocolate. Supposing that's a word you use to describe me.”

His eyebrows raised at my comment that same way they always did. It was enough to make you wonder just a little…

“Unpleasant? Sad? Grumpy maybe?” He suggested, giving me a teasing look.

“Haha very funny, Jammy.” I reached over and lightly tapped his chest.

“Jam.” Ben corrected pointedly.

“Jammy,” I repeated with a smirk.

If I wasn’t allowed to call him an ‘adorable grandmother’ anymore then I felt I was allowed to have other nicknames at my disposal.

“You’re so insistent on doing things your way aren’t you?” He rolled his eyes, though a smile played on his lips.

“You mean to tell me there are other ways than my own?” I feigned shock.

My mother had raised a very independent woman and I knew it. But it seemed my dearest Jam was just picking up on this fact. Then again maybe the tug of war we’d had over a basket had clued him in.

“Shocking right? A new perspective can be so refreshing.”

“Or not,” I smirked.

As we entered the kitchen I let go of Ben and went to the pantry to fetch the chocolate. I was well acquainted with where anything containing cocoa was in the kitchen- not that I ever snuck into the kitchen to steal chocolate or anything...

“I see we’re both the chocolate culprits in the palace.” Ben crossed his arms with a smug smile as he watched me.

“What can I say?” I chuckled, walking back over as I held up a few bars of chocolate. “Oops?”

“'Share' is more like.” He told me, plucking a bar from my hands.

“Share?” I smirked, holding the remaining chocolate out of his reach. “I'm not sure I do that so well.”

Call it a bad habit leftover from growing up without any competition. I’d even been the valedictorian of my graduating class of one whole student. So sharing wasn’t a concept I was well acquainted with.

“Then I’ll just have to hide the rest from you if you don’t.”

He took a few steps backwards and went to hold the kitchen door open. As I went through I tapped my nose and told him I’d just have to find the chocolate with my toucan beak. Then instead of walking, I dashed out into the hall and towards a pair of side doors.

“Lia!” Ben called after me with a laugh, jogging towards me.

From the corner of my eye, I saw that he’d caught up to me, which caused me to sprint ahead to the doors. When I got there I proudly pulled them open and waited.

“Got you!” I gave him a triumphant smile.

“You did all that just to hold the door open for me?” Ben asked with raised eyebrows as he paused at the door.

“I did” I nodded and gave him a smug smile.

It’s the little victories.

“Then thank you.” He gave me a dramatic bow then stepped through the doors and quickly out into the garden. “Hurry up now!”

I watched him in surprise for a moment then bent over as I kicked off my heels. I quickly picked them up, doing my best to carry both the chocolate and my shoes as I tried to catch up.

“That's so unfair, I hope you know that!” I shouted after him.

“Not my fault you have short legs!” Ben called back, quickening his pace.

“Jam!” I yelled, tossing a chocolate bar in his direction- missing on purpose- because if I’d wanted to actually nail him then I would have easily done it.

He stopped to reach down and nab the chocolate bar before rushing off again with a laugh. What a jerk I jokingly thought to myself.

“Oh, you're so on!”

My eyes narrowed at Ben and I ran in his direction. He briefly looked back at me then broke into a sprint as he hit the path that led to the beach. I did my best to catch up but just couldn’t. As I made it to the path I nearly tripped on the last bits of grass. When I finally caught up with him he had stopped just before the sand.

“Have a good run?” Ben asked with a wide smile, panting slightly.

My heels and the chocolate bars dropped into the sand as I bent over. I placed my hands on my knees as I glanced up at him.

“I am never running again,” I told him in a breathless voice.

“Is that a promise?” He asked with a chuckle as he leaned down to pick up my shoes and the chocolate.

“Right after I do this.” I raised an eyebrow at him with a smirk, holding up a finger.

I stood up straight and sprinted towards the water, only stopping when I was nearly ten feet away. I plopped down in the sand and then laid back, letting out a sigh as I felt the warm sand against my back. A few moments later Ben joined me, dropping a bar of chocolate on to my stomach before sitting down himself. He pulled his knees up and rested his arms on them.

“At least you got your exercise for the day.” He said, looking over at me.

“The day? Try the rest of my life.” I reached down and picked up the chocolate. After opening it I took a big bite.

I continued to eat my candy as I told him that unless a sport was aquatic or equestrian related then it wasn’t exactly my thing. When I asked about his no-gos he told me he might tell me if I didn’t call him Jammy- so of course, I just repeated the newfound nickname. The way he squirmed in annoyance brought me a strange sense of satisfaction.

In the end, Ben wouldn’t tell me and I returned my attention to the chicks and ducklings from earlier, which he adamantly declared would survive without his love.

“Just as long as you don't mind this bird.” I pointed to myself with a sigh. “I guess I can live with that answer.”

“You’re the exception remember?” He smiled.

“You flatter me, truly.” I touched my chest, as I sat up.

I dug my toes into the sand as I looked out at the water. It was a gorgeous day- as it usually was in Angeles. Perfect for swimming.

“As only I can.” Ben leaned over and gave me a quick kiss on the cheek before looking out to the sea with a grin.

“Now you flatter yourself.” I burst out laughing.

“It was bound to happen sometime.”

Ben looked back at me with an amused look. I shook my head and glanced down at the sand for a moment then back up to him.

“Speaking of things that were bound to happen... Can I ask you something?” There was a bit more seriousness to my tone.

“Of course,” Ben told me, with his expression changing slightly.

Well, here it goes. I’m sure every other girl here has asked this same stupid question- but I can’t help wanting to know...

“I think you already know what it is and I'm not really in any place to judge but here it goes.” I sighed, looking over at him. “What happened a few weeks with that picture?’

He sighed, propping his head up on one hand. Ben looked at me with a tired smile. And still- he told me...

“That picture always comes back to haunt me.” He paused, with his brows knitting in annoyance as he told me more. “It was... a very long day. I had too much to drink, not something I usually do, but I was stressed. The girl in the picture- she set me up. Still, I should have been more careful. It was a stupid decision.”

His head shook and he let his knees fall as he played with the sand. For a moment he was so vulnerable… and then like that it was gone, replaced by the heir once more...

“Okay.”

“That’s it?” Ben stopped what he was doing and glanced over at me with a curious look. “Okay?”

“Were you expecting a different reaction?” I chuckled softly.

His lips pursed slightly. So he had been... It wasn’t exactly my place, and besides, he wasn’t the first boy I’d ever kissed, and if things didn’t work out between us I was pretty sure he wouldn’t be the last either.

‘Kind of.” Ben chuckled and resumed making patterns in the sand. “People react differently”

“I'm fairly certain that aside from myself who you kiss or don't kiss isn't allowed to be my business- at least not right now.” My own fingertips began forming designs in the sand. “Forgiveness should also be given for mistakes, not that there's anything to forgive.”

“I just wish everyone thought the same way.” Ben stared at me a moment but then nodded in agreement.

How funny it was. Here I was next to one of the most powerful people in Illéa and somehow it was almost as if he needed my forgiveness. Mine.

“Maybe.” I shrugged, then flashed him a smile. “But in any case, this obviously happened before you met me.”

“Obviously.” He returned my grin with a laugh.

I brushed the sand off my hands using my jeans, then leaned back slightly.

“For what it's worth I've made mistakes too- as has every other girl here.” I reminded him.

Some of us more than others…

I told Ben to not be so hard on himself, before changing the subject. I wanted to know more about why this was the place he’d chosen to go to out of everywhere else, over the stables in particular- which I’d grown pretty fond of. Each member of the Schreave family seemed to have a lot of horses, which meant I had a lot of grapes to give out.

‘It’s sort of my... place. Sounds stupid after how many times it’s been brought up with people, but it’s true.”

“I get that.” I gave him a fond smile. “Back in Sonage Kit and I have a special place we like to go.”

Ben asked where that was and I told him about the small lake near the edge of our property. I explained that we went swimming there when we had the chance. He asked a bit more about Christian and I told him how long we’d been friends, though Ben seemed to notice something was off. I explained that we were just going through some things at the moment. And of course being the gentleman he was Ben offered to talk to me about it.

“Jam, are you offering to talk to me about boy problems?” I chuckled.

“He’s just your friend.” His expression was flat as he gave me a curious glance. ”Isn’t he?”

If I had a dime for every time someone had asked me that question.

“Best friend.” I shook my head, giving his shoulder a nudge. ”So if you're looking to apply I regret to inform you the position has already been filled.”

“Duly noted. But yes, if you need to talk .” He chuckled, nudging me back. ”I’ll listen.”

“Oh, all the things I could tell you.” I shook my head with a laugh. “But what about you? Any best friends? Burning secrets?”

“No no, don’t change the subject now. We’re talking about you.”

“What about me?” I rolled my eyes.

“You and-” Ben waved his hand as if that would help him remember the name. “Kit. And all the other things you could say apparently.”

“I've already explained him. So what else exactly are you looking for? If you want to know just ask. I'm an open book.” I told him.

That was a lie. I wasn’t an open book. Though I told the truth where I could and glossed over the troubling with small fibs.

We continued flirting back and forth a bit as I avoided telling him anything too dark or serious. I figured him knowing my aversion to honey, melon flavoured things, and too many strawberries was as unpleasant I should get. I’d already had more than one person out there who knew a thing or two about me and prince or no I just didn’t want to risk it.

At some point, I stood and began to walk towards the water. I smirked at him as I crept closer, while Ben stayed at his spot in the sand.

“You’re still in your pants you know.” He called out to me.

“And?” I yelled back over the soft sound of the waves, as I waded a few inches into the water.

“Uh, Lia…Tell me that’s as far as you’re going to go.”

I could hear the caution in his tone. It’s only a little water, Jammy Jam.  Without acknowledging him I went out a little further. As I moved a little deeper the rolled up cuffs of my jeans were soaked through by the ripples of the water.

A few seconds later there was a tug at my hand as Ben pulled me back.

“I’d rather not bring you back to the palace completely soaked.”

“Because I can't dry off?” I gave him a confused look.

“Well your-” He sputtered gesturing to my outfit. “Clothes will be see-through.”

“Not that it matters,” I muttered, frowning a little before I looked up at him and sighed in defeat. “Fine.”

His brows furrowed as he told me it did matter- at least a little. As he tugged my hand he said I could still dip my feet in.

“Does it really?” I made a “so-so” motion, glancing down at his hand.

“I’m a private person,” Ben stated simply.

“Fine, I guess. You win.” I threw my hands up, kicking at the water as I took a step back.

Ben let out a sigh as he rubbed his forehead. It seemed that at times I really did test him… Or at least his sensibilities.

“I didn’t mean to make it a win or lose situation.” Ben tipped my chin up towards him with a finger, giving me a small smile. “Time and a place for things. That’s all.”

“A time and place?” I smirked at him, holding back a laugh. “And you say I'm the flirt, Jammy…”

Look at you getting all racy. I know about club girl… but this is something else...

“Not quite what I meant.” He winced as he scratched the nape of his neck.

“Mhm, okay. Sure, Jam Jam.” I chuckled.

“It wasn’t!” He told me indignantly.

“Too late! You said it.” I smirked, reaching up to give his nose a small tap.

“I take it back.” Ben groaned, batting my hand away.

“You can’t take it back.” I shook my head, not accepting his claim. “I'm going to remember that”

Ben replied with a dry answer as he kicked some water towards me. My eyebrows raised in amusement as I splashed him back. He asked if this meant we were starting a splash war to which I replied with a maybe, kicking more water his way. Ben seemed to accept the challenge as he splashed me once more before jogging off.

“Oh no, you don't!” I exclaimed, chasing after him.

“Oh no, you don’t?” Ben snorted, pausing to look back at me with an entertained look on his face.

“Get back here,” I told him, kicking more water in his direction but missing this time due to the distance between us.

Ben jogged further away and I called after him to stop. As I broke into a sprint he asked why he should do what I wanted, but he didn’t have time to respond before I caught up to him and leapt on to his back.

“Got you!” I proclaimed.

“Classic.” He grunted, stumbling slightly at the unexpected weight, catching my legs.

“Told you not to run.” I chuckled.

“Better than you getting soaked.”

Ben began to walk us back towards where our things were in the sand. I looked around for a moment, enjoying the view. Being so high up made me feel like a cat surveying its domain. I had to say- princes made good perches.

“Right. Because there's a time and a place.” I teased.

“Keep that up and I’ll drop you in.”

“So basically you'll give me exactly what I wanted in the first place.” I went to wrap my arms around his shoulders.

“Oops.” Ben paused, realising I was right.

“Oh, Jam. You slay me.” I chuckled.

“You say the oddest things.” Ben gave me a short laugh.

We arrived back at where we’d left our things and I let go of Ben.

“It's just one of the many things you like about me.” I winked at him as I dropped down into the sand.

“That’s what I’d like you to think.” He rolled his eyes with a chuckle.

“Just like I've been making you think I like your running away, smart remarks, and aversion to all things feathered?” I asked, before adding. “Besides myself of course.”

“I’m simply better at it.”

“Sure you are.” I teased, tapping his shoulder.

“Glad you agree.”

I watched as Ben threw me a small smile before bending over to pick up the remaining chocolate along with my high heels. He then motioned for me to start following him back towards the palace.

“I thought you'd figured out by now that I enjoy carrying things on my own,” I smirked.

“I have. Still, want to do it though.”

I shook my head. He just couldn’t seem to handle the idea of me carrying my own things.

“I'll make an exception but from here on out maybe let me do it, okay?”

“A change can be good you know,” Ben argued, offering me his free hand, which I took.

You could always try letting me have my way.

“I could tell you the same thing.” I contended, eyeing my shoes.

“Touché.”

A smile tugged at his lips as I leaned into him and let out a sigh. We walked in silence for a while, completely content- or at least mostly. I still wanted to carry my own crap.

“Walk me back to my room?” I asked as we made our way back inside the palace.

“Sure.” He smiled, tugging my hand in the direction of the stairs.

“Not like you'd say no.” I chuckled. “You're always the gentleman.”

“And I consider that a good thing,” Ben stated.

“So do I.” I smiled up at him. “But in moderation.”

“Meaning I should let you carry your things once in a while.”

“Correct.” I nodded. “And open doors and such.”

“Okay. I can do that.” He glanced at me, bobbing his head in acceptance.

As we headed up the stairs I thought for a moment. I guess this is where you have to give a little. You can’t let him give you an inch then take a mile. It has to be inch for inch.

“Then I promise to occasionally let you carry things- without complaining.”

Or I’ll keep the complaining to a minimum.

“Can I still kiss you in between all that?” He expectantly raised his eyebrows at me, looking over.

And you call me bold...

“There's only one way to find out,” I smirked.

Ben grinned at me as we reached the top of the stairs. After looking around for a moment he tugged me into a hidden alcove.

“Jam-” Before I could finish what I was saying he had leaned me against the wall and was kissing me.

I giggled slightly as I wrapped my arms around his waist. Ben dropped what he’d been holding and brought both of his hands up to cup my face. I pulled him closer, leaning into the kiss more as his thumb brushed against my cheek.

My eyes fluttered open for a moment and I looked up at him. Another giggle escaped my lips as I shut my eyes again.

“Is this funny?” Ben asked with a smile as he pulled back.

“No, sorry.” I shook my head.

I giggled again then gave him a soft kiss before pulling back.

“Good.” He chuckled.

Ben took my hand again but didn’t pick up my things like I had expected him to. I bent down at grabbed my heels and the remaining chocolate from the floor. As I stood upright again I let out a laugh.

Now of all times, he decides to let me carry my own things.

“I’m a man of my word, Lia,” Ben smirked, pulling me out of the alcove and towards my room.

“And to think I was going to let you carry them just now.” I grinned up at him.

“I’m sure you were.” Ben laughed, with an audible hint of doubt.

I would have- especially after the kiss. But be careful what you ask for I guess.

“Well, you'll never know now, will you?” I shrugged, leaning against him as we walked.

“Not exactly complaining.” He told me with a smile as he completed the short walk to my room.

Ben shrugged as he turned to face me. I let go of his hand a leaned against my doorframe.

“See? It's nice to not always have to carry things, isn't it?” I teased.

“Exactly. Then I could do this one more time.” Ben reached out and brushed a lock of hair away from my face, then leaned in to kiss me again.

“What's gotten into you?” I asked looking up at him with a grin when he pulled back.

So much for time and place.

“I don't know.” He shrugged. “General good mood I suppose.”

“Any particular reason?”

“I think you can guess.” Ben tapped my nose with a chuckle.

“It was the beak for sure,” I told him. “And all the baby birds.”

“Naturally.” He agreed. “You’re a genius you know.”

“Oh, I know.” I nodded.

“Alright, genius toucan. This is where I leave you.” He laughed.

“I'll see you around, pigeon extraordinaire.”

I turned away slightly as I went to open my door. From the corner of my eye, I saw Ben give me a small but dramatic bow.

“Of course,” Ben told me as he straightened up, flashing me a grin.

“Later.” I rolled my eyes with a chuckle.

“Bye.” He waved, still grinning as he walked off.

I watched him for a moment as he made his way down the hall, then slipped back into my room and shut the door behind me.

[opheliagardinier]

peep peep cheerio (part i)

This is only part one because I have a lot of fics to write at the moment and wanted to get at least part of it up.

Thank you so much to Brianna @benjaminschreave and Ester @wyattschreave the for the rp EVEN IF YOU CONSPIRED AGAINST ME. I had a fun time writing this and hopefully, part two will be up soon(ish).

peace out cub scouts

word count: 3013

Happy Birthday to Fee

Some pigeons in a tree

Happpppy Birthdayyyyy to Fee

Though it was feathery

I stood in front of the mirror in my room looking myself up and down. My hair was pulled back a bit and my makeup is simple. The flowers on my dress were just enough to make a statement but not too much so that they would draw attention. Ladylike was the word my grandmother would have used if she was with me. Maybe even perfection if she was in an extra good mood. But neither of those words described the way I felt.

It was a strange routine I’d fallen into. I’d learned to tiptoe on the line between “I’m here!” and “look at me!”. It was something that had consumed my life for too long- but had become my normal.

I divided my life into two parts- The Before and The After. It was all I really could do. I had been deep in The After for over half a decade and not a day could go by without worry. But I was careful to never let it consume me.

I was used to the flashes of cameras and the off the cuff questions from reporters when they find me. In a way, I resented them a bit- because if it hadn’t been for the constant attention I could have avoided this limbo. But still- I would never let it stop me from living my life, which was exactly what I was going to do.

I traced the faint wrinkles that have started to appear on my forehead when I frowned. They frustrate me to no end. I hated frowning with the way it made your muscles feel heavy and the looks people gave you for it. It always opened you up for judgement.

But when you smiled there were no double takes or questions asked. You’re happy and nothing is wrong. And that’s how you get them- and yourself. You pretend most moments of the day that everything in your life is perfect and you get them to believe it. The only problem is if you aren’t careful you start to believe it too. You forget the struggle and you lose yourself.

Today is a happy day. Be happy. So I was. Or at least I resign myself to be.

After leaving my room I made a quick stop in the kitchens. When I went to open the fridge I saw an open bottle of white wine that had been left. For a moment I contemplated opening it- staring at it intently, but then I closed the door with a sigh and shook off the feeling of longing. I acquired a basket, a blanket, and the necessary provisions for what I was about to do, then was on my way.

I was practically grinning as I made my way through the halls. I’d perked up a bit and was looking forward what was ahead. About an hour before I’d sent Wyatt a note telling him to get ready-so all that was left to do was retrieve Ben.

It seemed to be a pattern with the two princes not being easy to track down. For the past twenty-five minutes I’d been searching high and low for Ben, with no one being able to- or willing- to tell me where he was. Granted the palace was huge, which didn’t exactly help when it came to finding someone. Though it must have been epic to use for hide and go seek.

“Aha! There you are.” I exclaimed, finally spotting Ben as I wandered into the library. “I've been looking everywhere for you.”

Ben stopped rummaging through the papers and books scattered over the table as he looked up at me. He squinted at me as I walked over to him.

“Lia?”

I was still trying to get used to the nickname. Initially, when he’d proposed it I’d been surprised and part of me had wanted to tell him no. But now- it was growing on me. It had a nice ring to it and it almost was beginning to feel special.

“Hey, I hope you aren't too busy. I brought lunch.” I smiled, holding up the basket I was carrying.

He blinked the basket, then squinted again, letting out a sigh.

“That’s nice of you. If only I could find my glasses.” Ben grumbled, beginning to go through the papers around him.

I laughed as I set the basket down. I then reached forward and pulled them off his head, where they’d been the entire time. Ben wore a surprised expression as I pulled back.

“Here you go, silly,” I told him.

He let out another sigh. Ben told me it happened way too often as he rubbed his eyes.

“I think maybe you should get one of those glasses chains and wear them as a necklace.” I chuckled.

“I’d look just like a grandma.” Ben groaned, reaching out and blindly trying to find the glasses I still held.

“A very cute grandma though.” I tilted my head.

It was moments like these where I forgot The After. I was just me- and hell if I could get someone to laugh I’d take it. I shrugged the feeling off once more.

“I doubt I fit into that category.” He frowned, squinting at me.

You’re going to have a good time.

“Adorable?”

That was one of the things I liked about Ben. He was handsome and seemed to have a sense of awareness, but it was something he tried to use to his advantage. Although that could have been because he couldn’t have been more fortunate when it came to his social standing- not that he seemed the type to particularly care.

He raised an eyebrow at me- the same way I’d seen him do so many times before. His mannerisms never failed to amuse me.

“Someone’s in a good mood today.” Ben sighed with a resigned laugh. “Are you purposefully holding my glasses hostage from me?”

“Oh! Sorry, I didn't mean to.” I reached over and put them on his face with a laugh. “There. Am I not allowed to be in a good mood?”

“It’s just surprising when you throw words like adorable into the mix.” Ben adjusted his glasses. He blinked a few times, finally able to see clearly, then smiled down at me.

So he had caught that. Shit. Well, it didn’t matter. Too late to take it back.

“You mentioned lunch?” He chuckled, glancing at the basket I held.

Ben reached out with one hand and tried to open the top.

“I did, in fact, mention lunch,” I told him with a smirk as I pulled the basket out of his reach.

“Riiiiight.” He raised an eyebrow at me and reached for the basket again.

I held the basket even further away and told him not in the library with a shake of my head. He gave me a pouty look.

“Where do we have to go then? I’m starved.” Ben patted his stomach.

I gave him a sweet smile and told him we were going out to the gardens. To my surprise, Ben grinned at me then grabbed my hand.

“Well come on then.” Ben tugged me towards the doors of the library.

“And I thought I was supposed to be the excited one,” I commented.

I’d been expecting more resistance from Ben. But it seemed I had caught him at a perfect time. Little did he know that in less than fifteen minutes he’d likely hate my guts.

“I’m a hungry guy.” Ben glanced at me. “Why should you be excited though? General good mood?”

“Well, my dearest Jam on this day many years ago I made my debut to the world.” I chuckled.

Some debut at that… I shook off the thought. No. You are going to enjoy this.

He stopped in his tracks and looked at me in disbelief.

“And you didn’t tell me?.”

“Well, you didn't ask until just now.” I jokingly rolled my eyes at him.

Ben gave me a flat look. Well, you didn’t. It was in the files Mr Prince Man. In Ben's defence, he did have thirty-five different girls whose names he had had to learn, so a birthday should have been the least of his worries.

“That is the most overused answer.” He shook his head. Ben tugged at my hand again as he started walking once more. “No matter, we just have to make this a very great lunch.”

“Great lunch”.....

We continued walking, eventually making our way outside. It was a nice clear day out. I heard the joyous chirping of birds accompanied by the sound of a light breeze.

“I’ll give you something else later.” He added with a side glance.

“You don't need to get me anything,” I smirked a little, though not at the thought of a gift. This “lunch would be spectacular” and that was a gift enough.

“Yes, I do. It’s your birthday.” Ben scoffed. As we reached the entrance of the gardens he looked around then pointed out towards a spot near the edge. “How’s there?”

I had never been big into gifts. I knew that the intention behind them was nearly always good but somehow ending up with some meaningless junk you’d chuck before the next birthday came around just didn’t do it for me.

“I was given the gift of life for my birthday already- I don't think gifts a necessary.” I chuckled, looking to where he had pointed. “How about that tree over there?”

I tried to see if I could spot Wyatt, but no such luck. He has been right when he said the leaves would hide him. I was just going to have to hope he was waiting for us- or else this would be a very awkward “lunch date”.

“Sure sure.” Without waiting Ben was already walking towards the tree. “It’s completely natural to get gifts on your birthday. I can contribute a little.”

Oh, you’ll contribute all right….

“Fine, if you say so,” I said in defeat.

“Now you’re getting it.” Ben grinned at me. We reached the tree, walking into the cool shade its leaves provided. He looked at me again- brows raised. “Here?”

“Here is perfect.” I nodded, looking around.  

I reached into the basket and pulled out a blanket. Ben reached over and took one end to help me spread it out on the ground. As always, he’s the perfect gentleman. When he helped like this is didn’t mind. However, the constant opening of doors and other such things was just too much. I had two hands and I was more than capable.

“Aren’t you fancy?” Ben asked with a smirk.

“I try to be.” I smiled back, jokingly batting my eyes a few times.

Once the blanket was out Ben plopped down onto it. I knelt down beside him then smoothed the skirt of my dress so I could sit down. Just like Lady Lorelai had been sure to remind us to do. There were so many rules to remember and follow so I suppose I should have been at least a little proud that I’d managed to have not forgotten one rule.

“Now can we eat o generous birthday Lia?” Ben eyed the basket.

“Yes, we can eat now.” I nodded, and reached into the basket to retrieve the bread I’d packed.”

His gaze went to the bread as his eyebrows furrowed. Ben looked back at me with a confused expression.

“Bread?”

“Oh sorry, I have another kind if you don't like that one.” I reached back into the basket and pulled out another loaf.

A few moments later bread crumbs began raining down on us causing him to jump. I looked up slightly but continued to focus on Ben. The pigeons descended upon us almost instantly. Ben was quickly on his feet yelling and swatting the birds away as they swarmed.

“WHAT THE HELL GET AWAY FROM ME,” Ben yelled, turning around to run away.

I let out a screech as the bird surrounded us. None of it was what I’d been expecting. As I tried to shoo the pigeons away I looked to see where Ben was just in time to see him sprint forward and into the tree, before he fell backwards into the grass. Ben groaned and shut his eyes and he held his forehead in pain.

“Oh shit,” I muttered, rushing over to kneel beside Ben. “Are you okay?”

I gently touched his shoulder. Wyatt yelled down asking if Ben was okay, then burst out laughing. Before he could answer either of us a yelp came from above and Wyatt hit the ground beside his brother with a thud.

“Wyatt?” I looked over at him in surprise, while Wyatt began groaning.

“What just happened?” Ben’s eyes opened slightly, but his brows stayed furrowed in pain. His head turned towards his brother before he looked back at me in confusion. “Why did he just fall out of a tree?”

“I’m just an illusion.” Wyatt winced as he opened one eye.

I touched Ben’s forehead as if I were taking his temperature but then pulled my hand back.

“It’s a long story.” I looked at the both of them with worry. “Should I go get help?”

Wyatt began to sit up, wincing as he held hugged his arm close to his side. He told us he was fine and had never been better- not that I believed him given the fact he’d just fallen ten feet out of a tree. He let out a grunt as he slowly stood up.

“I’ll leave you two… love pigeons to continue with your picnic.” Wyatt smirked, still noticeably wincing in between his words. He looked up at the tree with a slight frown, before shaking his head and returning his attention to me and Ben. “You owe me, Ophelia.”

Wyatt waved his hand in dismissal then turned to leave. I reluctantly let him leave, knowing he wasn’t actually fine.

“Jam?" I looked back to Ben who had been glaring at Wyatt up until he had left.

“I think I’m okay.” His focus returned to me. Ben grimaced as he sat up, then gave me a wary look. “Can you explain why a bunch of pigeons just attacked me? And why Wyatt fell out of the tree?”

Oh boy, where do I begin? I only conspired with your brother.

“I am so sorry, that wasn't how that was supposed to go at all.” I gave Ben an apologetic look as I rubbed his shoulder and shook my head. “ We were trying to be funny.”

An expression of understanding crossed his face as he sighed and closed his eyes for a long moment. Then without warning, Ben burst out laughing.

“You set up a prank to freak me out with birds?” He looked up at me, laughing harder as his hand pressed against his forehead. “Oh my god, that’s insane.”

“Yeah, we did.” I let out a breath and nodded, soothingly rubbing his back.

He laughed a bit more. I was glad he was mostly all right but it didn’t stop me from feeling a mild amount of regret.

“Almost went off without a hitch too.” He glanced back at me as a smile tugged at his lips.

“Everything went wrong.” I groaned and put my face in my hands.

“You managed to freak me out.” Ben lifted up a shoulder, half smiling at me. “Minus a headache and a broken brother I’d call it a success.”

“And a few scrapes.” I giggled softly.

I looked down at my hand as I began to notice a stinging sensation. On the back of my hand was a scratch that was a few inches long. It must have happened in the frenzy. Ben’s gaze followed mine and he took my hands in his own, looking them over.

“Shouldn’t hurt too much, I’m guessing?”

“It's not too bad.” I shook my head, looking up at him. I reminded him that I hadn’t been the one to run into the tree before widening my eyes a little as I added, “Unless you don't remember.”

“I remember. Vividly.” Ben gave me a short laugh before reaching into the basket to retrieve a napkin and some water. After wetting the napkin he dabbed the cut to clean it while I grit my teeth in pain. Once he was done he looked up at me with a smile. “There. Just to make sure.”

“Ouch.” I held up my hand to examine his word, then added with a chuckle, “Hopefully it isn't like a werewolf bite. I don't think I'd want to have to change into a pigeon.”

“You’d be a weird mix with that toucan beak of yours.” Ben snorted, before beginning to clean up a little. He eyed the bread and raised a brow at me. “So was this prank birthday worthy?”

I let out a breathy laugh. Worth it? I wasn’t sure. But I’d certainly had a decent laugh. I just wasn’t sure all the injuries helped justify the scheme.

“I only did it today in case you protested having lunch with me, because who can say no to the birthday girl?”

“I wouldn’t have protested regardless of your birthday.” Ben gave me a small laugh, shaking his head.

“I would say that's good to know for future reference, but I think you may not want to have lunch with me after all of this.” I motioned to the disaster that surrounded us.

Ben glanced around. I studied him a moment. I couldn’t believe how relaxed he was about the whole thing. It was truly admirable.

“Maybe just... lunch where no pigeons can get me.” He looked back at me with a slight smile.

“Deal.” I held out my hand, laughing as I shook my head. “No pigeons.”

“I’m holding you to that.” Ben took my hand and gave it a firm shake.

I held back a laugh.

“'l’ll even throw in the added bonus of not inviting any other kind of birds as well.”

“Then I think we understand one another perfectly.” He grinned.