#choices king liam

[xxrainbow-princessxx]

A Quiet Christmas - Isabella x Leo (One shot from a RR Mob Boss AU)

This is a one shot from a Mob Boss style AU for Liam and Leo. This is the kids first Christmas with Leo since they returned to Cordonia.

Cutesy fic, following prompt for @choicesdecember2024 for Day 29: Snowman / Snowball Fight

tagging a few old friends as I haven’t posted in a long time and I am sorry for that 😓😭 if I have missed anyone, again I am sorry - I just haven’t posted in a lifetime 😭

@havenroyals @angrythingstarlight @lorirwritesfanfic @lorircreates

This Christmas Eve for Leo was somewhat reminiscent of his days when the Rys Royal Family were still ruling the Cordonian Kingdom. It was a far cry from too many Christmases past on the run or drinking himself to oblivion to block out the pain of the unknown. This year however was set to change that repetitive narrative and create new, happier memories. Reunited again with this childhood sweetheart and their identical twin daughters, Leo decided to do something magical for their first Christmas together as a family and planned a trip to Lythikos after realising their kids hadn’t played in the snow since the were little, nor had he the opportunity to live that experience with them as a family, until now. The closer the family were to the Lythikos Kingdom, the heavier the snowflakes became. The snow was falling thick as a blanket over the darkened mountains, each flake softening the world outside. Leo sat in the driver’s seat of the black SUV, his fingers clenched on the wheel as the headlights cut through the swirling white haze. Beside him, Bella kept her eyes on the road, but he could feel her tension, the way her shoulders were slightly hunched as if bracing against some invisible storm.

Their twin daughters, Alessandra and Natalia, sat in the back, discussing the most important aspects of life right now, “Mama, Papa… will santa know we’re here and not leave our presents at home?” Their voices, high and eager, were the only sound that filled the cabin of the car. “Sí, mi amor…” Isabella spoke softly, “Santa will know where you are tonight, so do not worry…” Leo glanced at Bella, his brow furrowing. The trip had been his idea—this remote cabin in the mountains for their first Christmas as a family. It was supposed to be peaceful. But Leo couldn’t shake the feeling that, no matter how far they went, the shadows of their life would always follow may that be from the Via Imperii or someone plotting revenge of a business deal gone wrong. They had only just begun to experience the weight of their father’s legacy, the weight Leo had tried to shield them from over the past year, but in his world, that was always easier said than done. He let out a slow breath and shifted his gaze to the rearview mirror. The road was barely visible through the thickening storm, but they were nearly there.

Leo’s gaze softened as he looked at the twins, their little faces lit by the dim glow of the car’s interior light. Alessandra and Natalia both were happily watching their favourite Christmas film in the headrest screens without a care in the world and for a brief moment, Leo’s heart ached. They were so young, so innocent. He knew that life was precious and the three individuals in the car alongside him filled him with a joy that could only be described as indescribable - he wouldn’t be able to articulate how he felt, no matter how hard he tried. Coming to a stop, Leo fixed the handbrake with a grin in front of a magnificent wooden cabin decorated with outdoor twinkling Christmas Lights, “This is home for the next couple of days…” The cabin was cozy, nestled in a hollow between two snow-covered peaks. It looked almost like a picture from one of those glossy holiday brochures, the kind that promised peace and serenity—things Leo was only just beginning to understand and appreciate once more. The majority of his adult life was simply to survive, out of everyone there - he needed this the most. 

He helped the petite brunette unpack the car, keeping a sharp eye on the surroundings. His instincts, honed over years of running the family business, refused to let him relax. But Bella had insisted—thiswas supposed to be their escape. He stood momentarily to take in the quiet. A millisecond of time felt like an eternity. He felt as if he were in a paradox - out in the open but sheltered from everyone at that moment. "Mi amor, come inside…" Isabella called from the front door with a giggle. "Alessandra and Natalia are already re-decorating the tree and making themselves at home…” The sandy haired former Cordonian Crown Prince walked inside, the warmth of the cabin immediately enveloping him. The fire crackled in the hearth, its flames casting long shadows on the walls. The twins were in the living room, their small hands carefully placing ornaments on the tree, giggling every time one of them tipped over.

“Papa, come see, come see!” Natalia called, her face glowing with excitement as she ran towards him, eagerly taking his calloused hand, dragging him towards the 8ft Fir Tree. With a sparkling star in hand, Leo lifted his youngest daughter high enough to reach the top of the tree to add the final decoration to its rightful place. Alessandra was watching with adoration as the star glittered from above her, the flecks of shimmering gold catching the lights as they twinkled and danced around the tree. Leo kneeled down beside them. For a brief moment, he allowed himself to forget who he was day to day—but for the holidays, he was just a father with his daughters, enjoying Christmas. Kissing both of their cheeks elicited a shriek of happiness from them both as he wrapped his strong, muscular arms around them both gently. “I think Santa knows you two have been so good this year… he didn’t tell me anything different when I spoke with him this morning…” Leo wasn’t exactly joking when he said this, he did speak to a Santa this morning but that was more of a shakedown than handing over a Christmas present list. 

As the evening deepened, the storm outside grew fiercer, but inside the cabin, it was warm, filled with the smells of roasting meat and the sound of Christmas carols playing softly in the background. The twins had set the table with their own brand of chaotic enthusiasm, and the meal was simple—no lavish spreads or extravagant gifts, just a quiet night together. After dinner, they sat around the fire. Leo held a glass of whiskey in his hand, his thoughts drifting. It was hard to silence the ghosts of his past. The weight of his responsibilities was always present, lurking just beneath the surface of every smile, every laugh. But tonight, tonight was different. The twins were happily colouring in pictures as they patiently waited for bed time, the fire crackling in the background. Bella leaned against him, her fingers twining with his. “Leo, it’s ok” she cooed softly, as if she could sense his thoughts. "We’re safe here. You’re safe. We’re safe." He nodded, but he couldn’t shake the feeling that he was just waiting for something—someone—to remind him of the world he’d left behind for the next few days. But for now, as he looked at Bella and their daughters, the warmth of the fire and the laughter of his family filled the empty spaces. For the first time in years, Leo allowed himself to believe it might just be enough.

As the night wore on, Leo and Isabella found themselves cozied up on the couch as the kids fell asleep soundly in their room. Kissing the crown of Isabella’s head as she slept against his shoulder, Leo savoured his tumbler of whiskey, quietly enjoying the spitting of the fire, watching as it slowly dissipated away into ash and smoke a mere hour or two later. Each hour on the grandfather clock rang out as a reminder of the lack of sleep Leo had and how many hours he had left before chaos ensued the cabin. As the clock struck 4am, he heard a recognisable shuffling coming from the hallway. “Back to bed…” his deep voice echoed, “It’s too early…” smiling to himself as he heard a soft but audible sigh and the door closing behind them. It was sweet they were so excited, warming Leo’s heart further. He’d done so much planning. Unbeknownst to Isabella or the twins, he had the cabin built for them, it wasn’t some simple weekend retreat but a holiday home where they could just be together. In fact, it was a present to the woman who brought his children into the world and he was trying to make up for the past four years of not knowing they existed, or in Isabella’s case - still alive. Leo wanted to be the father he never had. He wanted to be present and only wanted what was best for them. For the first time in a long time, he felt a sense of peace settle over him. The past was a shadow he couldn’t escape, but tonight, that shadow didn’t feel so heavy. They were together. And for now, that was all that mattered, holding the love of his life just that little bit tighter as she slept peacefully. 

As predicted, the morning brought organised chaos and a childlike wonder to all. “He didn’t forget!” Exclaimed the twins as they bounded into the living room, wakening their mother who was still asleep against their father’s shoulder. Isabella’s glazed over eyes watched as they ran towards the tree and in a whirlwind of wrapping paper, toys and presents appeared, replacing the green and red wrapped boxes that sat perfectly under the branches. “Mi querida…” the petite brunette sighed, placing her hand gently against Leo’s cheek, “Did you not sleep?” her brow raising as she questioned him. “Yeah…” Leo yawned, trying to disguise it with a smile, “I gotta couple of hours…” before immediately changing the subject, “Breakfast?” The former Crown Princess’ dark chocolate brown eyes saddened as she saw the last two wrapped presents from under the tree, both for Leo, from her and the children. 

As the twins were preoccupied, Isabella carefully picked up the small boxes bringing them to the kitchen. “Open them…” she held out the presents in front of the mob boss, him puzzled as to why. Her brow furrowed at his reluctance, “…Por favor, mi amor… this one first…” she tapped her long red nail against the cardboard…” Leo opened it to a new pair of leather gloves, scarf and hat. He was confused but appreciated the gesture. “Sasha and Talia have always wanted to go build a snowman like they’ve seen in the movies… when they heard we were going somewhere snowy for Christmas they hoped that you would help them…” Leo tried on the gloves, they were pristine and weren’t tainted like his usual pair. For now, his hands were clean metaphorically and physically. Isabella’s beautiful warm smile appeared once more as she teased, now this one…” Leo looked at it, it was a small ring box, opening it he saw nothing other than a folded piece of paper. He carefully opened it, his sea green eyes scanning the contents before his gaze met the petite brunette’s. “You’re?!” Leo exclaimed, he didn’t know how to feel, he was elated but terrified at the same time. Isabella pointed to the picture of the sonogram, “Twelve weeks, going on Thirteen…” looking over her shoulder with a grin towards the twins playing on the other side of the room, completely unaware of what was unfolding, “They don’t know yet either… I thought you might want to be the one to tell them…” 

“Doll…” Leo softly cupped his hands around  Isabella’s face, embracing her as if it were his last. His lips crashed onto hers and once again, time felt as if it were standing still. In that moment, all he could feel was immense joy. “I’m surprised you didn’t notice each morning…” No he didn’t notice, recently when Isabella was going to work - he was only arriving home, passersby in the night as the Via Imperii’s grip tightened around the Kingdom. Family, he thought. Our family. This time it would be different, he could be there. He could be present. But again… could and would have two different meanings. “This place…” the sandy haired Cordonian cleared his throat awkwardly, “…this is for you…” Isabella’s eyes widened in shock, “We were only renting… I thought this…” causing Leo to chuckle loudly as he rolled his eyes playfully, “…You really think that you would be in one of Olivia’s Airbnb’s or something? I don’t think so honey…” shaking his head, Leo continued to plate up, “Breakfast is ready…”

“Show me all the presents Santa brought!” Leo happily exclaimed as the twins came bounding in trying to carry as many items as their little bodies would allow. “Wow…” the former Crown Prince grinned as he saw his two beaming girls, “You two must have been really good this year…” they nodded in unison. “Yes, papa! We have!” “And a little birdie told me that you also want to go build a snowman? Will we do that before dinner?” Isabella winced at the loud, piercing squeal that echoed through the wooden cabin, “So much for a quiet Christmas…” the petite brunette shook her head as the excitement grew. “Let’s all go get dressed and we can go outside…” Isabella calmly instructed before they as a family finally ventured out of their redwood cabin cocoon. 

There was so much snow that neither Alessandra or Natalia knew what to do with. “Let me show you…” Leo began to form the shape of a ball, rolling it around as it became bigger. “Go help your papa…” Isabella smiled from the porch, encouraging them both to help Leo as she pulled her woollen coat tighter around her to keep warm. The white powdery snow crunched under their feet, with the snowflakes continuing to dance above their heads. “You know….” Leo looked up to the sky with a warm smile, “Each little snowflake is different, they’re not the same…” Alessandra pouted her lip with a furrowed brow from confusion, holding out her little hand to catch the flakes “But they look the same papa?” “Well…” Leo grinned as he lifted a pile of snow, patting it to form the snowman’s head as he kneeled down beside them, “You and your sister look the same… but you’re different…“ before lifting the snowman’s head and placing it atop his body. Isabella found an old scarf, a carrot, some branches from the pile of chopped wood and some stones for the eyes and buttons. “Should be we get him dressed, yes?” 

Admiring their handiwork, Alessandra and Natalia sprinted toward the snowman, wrapping their arms around its snowy form in excitement. Leo cleared his throat playfully. “What about me? Where’s my hug?” The twins exchanged a mischievous glance, almost as if communicating telepathically, before racing toward him. Leo, grinning, fell backward into the snow just as they collided with him, and he wrapped his arms around them. The twins squealed with laughter as he chuckled.

“Mama!!” they cried out as Leo tickled them mercilessly. “Mama!!” they repeated, their voices full of giggles. The petite brunette, knelt beside them with a smile, her eyes twinkling. “Maybe next year you’ll have another set of hands to help stop the tickle monster…” Leo raised an eyebrow. “We’re doing this now?” Isabella nodded, her smile widening. “No better time.” Leo sat up, loosening his hold on the girls. “Sasha… Talia…” he began, his grin growing. “Your mama and I have something to tell you… we’re going to have a baby… you’re going to be big sisters.” The twins paused, taking in the news. Natalia was the first to speak, her eyes lighting up. “I want a brother!” But Alessandra shook her head with a determined expression. “No, Talia… no boys… mama…” Her hazel eyes turned to Isabella, and she smiled sweetly. “Can we get some hot chocolate?” “Por supuesto, cariño,” Isabella replied, her voice warm. “Let’s go inside and make some.”

As the evening began to slowly roll in, Isabella and Leo prepared dinner, the girls happily watching outside as their snowman stood proud and tall outside the cabin. It was a Christmas the family wouldn’t forget. Leo did have one more surprise under his sleeve but he wanted to wait until the twins went to bed before he could clamber the courage to ask the former Crown Princess to marry him with the 20 carat diamond ring he had carefully stowed away for safe keeping.

[choices-binglebonkus]

The more times I read TRH, the more I feel that the writers just pulled Lena out of their ass for TRF.

When the MC and Olivia relive the latter’s memories, they realize that Queen Eleanor was pregnant, and they assume that she died while pregnant. The MC even goes so far as to speculate that maybe she was killed because she was pregnant. More on this in a moment.

It’s also mentioned in Liam’s last memory of her alive that she had just come back from an extended (but pointedly unspecified) period of time away on a trip, which in TRF, is said to be the trip she took to give birth to Lena in secret up in Vallenheim, because she was so afraid of the political climate in Cordonia at the time.

When the gang finds Queen Eleanor’s secret room with all her intel, books, secrets, and even her diary, it becomes clear that Eleanor left it all there for Liam to find. In her diary she even says as much, letting him know that that’s why she’s writing the letter to him: because she feels her enemies closing in, and that if something should happen to her, at least he would have that letter.

And throughout the diary, specifically in the letter to Liam, there’s no mention of Lena anywhere. You’d think that if Eleanor was in such a desperate state that she explicitly wrote a letter to Liam about feeling her enemies closing in and fearing for her life, that she would have mentioned Lena anywhere in the diary to alert Liam that he had a little sibling she gave birth to in secret months prior.

Alas, no such thing. Eleanor drank wine from the poisoned goblet and died that night.

You may stop me right here and say, “Why did Eleanor drink wine from the poisoned goblet if she was pregnant? Clearly she must not have been, and this theory has fallen apart.”

Well, we know Eleanor was hellbent on concealing the pregnancy, especially from Constantine, who was there when Godfrey gifted her the poisoned goblet. She probably felt that she had to imbibe at least a bit of alcohol to avoid suspicion in her husband. So perhaps Eleanor did drink the wine; as little as she could get away with.

We also know that the poisoned goblet didn’t act right away. Eleanor was able to finish her drink with Constantine, discreetly slip away to her secret room (where the goblet was found twenty years later by Liam and co.), get out of the passage, and then an undetermined amount of time later, the poison kicked in and she died.

After she died, the medical examiners determined the cause of her death to be poison, leading Constantine to test all the wines in the cellar. They also likely discovered she was pregnant when she died, which they definitely would have informed Constantine of. Given the nature of paranoia and secrecy of Constantine we’ve come to know over the course of the series, it’s probably safe to assume that he kept the discovery of her pregnancy a secret so as to not show any further signs of weakness within the monarchy.

So. With that out of the way, let’s go back to the MC speculating that Eleanor was assassinated because she was pregnant.

When the gang confronts Godfrey in the Auvernese prison in TRH book 3, Liam is understandably furious with him for killing his mother, saying, “You monster! She was your queen! …She was pregnant.”

You’d think this would evoke some sort of reaction from Godfrey. Surprise, shock, remorse, something. Anything. But he doesn’t react at all…which leads me to believe he was aware of her pregnancy somehow.

And yet he and Barthelemy still went through with their plot.

It was stated that the two had Eleanor killed because she was overextending her power and influencing Constantine, taking power away from the nobles who are “owed” it.

Given Godfrey’s lack of a reaction (what I presume to be because he and Barthelemy knew Eleanor was pregnant), I suspect that Godfrey and Barthelemy feared Eleanor’s pregnancy, should she choose to eventually disclose it to Constantine, would make her even more influential to him, not to mention further cementing her position as queen with another heir. So, the traitorous snakes that they are, they conspired together and had her killed before she could bring the pregnancy to light.

Because there was absolutely no mention of Lena anywhere in Eleanor’s secret room, nor through any of the investigations conducted by Liam or Olivia, I’m convinced that the writers originally had Godfrey and Barthelemy assassinate her because she was pregnant, just as the MC postulated, and tried to retcon it when they started working up to The Royal Finale and realized that having a secret Rys sibling could be a major plot point and weak link to exploit against the Big Bads.

[alj4890]

The Promise

(Liam and his daughter, Charlotte) in a Choices: The Royal Heir drabble

Thirty Kisses in Thirty Days Challenge with the prompt: An "I forgive you." Kiss

A/N I've written a few drabbles of Liam marrying Madeleine and having a daughter with her. Those stories have Charlotte grown and beginning to face the pressures of having to choose a suitor. For this drabble though, Charlotte is a little girl trying to adjust to having a father who can't be there whenever she wants.

Rating G: for family fluff

@gkittylove99 @kingliam2019 @texaskitten30 @yourmajesty09 @mom2000aggie @twinkleallnight @lodberg  @amandablink @neotericthemis  @mm2305 @sfb123 @tessa-liam @thesvnsins @krsnlove @busywoman

Masterlist

"Here's another request from the King and Queen of Auvernal, your majesty."

Liam glanced at the documents with forced interest. With Madeleine out of the country visiting many of their allies, he was left to deal with the day to day operations of being King of Cordonia. He'd had more than the usual needs brought to his attention and without his capable queen here to divide the work, he was on his own bearing the full weight of the crown.

"Just set them over there, Galani." He gestured over to a nearby table.

His secretary did as requested. He then cleared his throat to get his king's attention again.

Liam quirked an eyebrow in question.

"You have someone wishing to speak with you, sir."

"Ask them to make an appointment." Liam pointed at his cluttered desk. "I don't have time today to see anyone."

"It's Princess Charlotte, sir."

Liam slumped back in his chair. Other than seeing her at breakfast and tucking her into bed at night, he'd been too busy to spend special time with his daughter. He knew that her visit to his study in the middle of the morning meant that he'd been neglecting her.

"Send her in."

Galani smiled as he opened the door.

Liam felt his spirits lift the moment he saw his seven year old. Charlotte's shy smile was directed first at his secretary bowing to her and then at him.

He got up and came around his desk to crouch down before her.

"How's my princess?" He asked.

"Good." She kept her hands behind her back. "I have a surprise for you."

"You do?" Liam found himself smiling for the first time today. "That is very thoughtful of you."

Charlotte produced a picture she'd drawn.

"My goodness!" Liam pretended to be astounded. "Where did you buy this work of art?"

His daughter giggled. "I didn't buy it, Father!'

"You didn't?" He leaned closer, eyes darting around the room, before whispering, "did you steal it from a museum?"

Her giggles grew louder as she shook her head.

"Then where on earth did you acquire this?"

"I made it!" She announced.

"No!" He gasped. "I knew you were talented, but I had no idea you were at this level."

Charlotte beamed at him. She stepped closer and pointed out the two figures in her drawing.

"That's you and that's me." She told him.

"A perfect likeness." Liam wrapped his arm around her, squeezing her in a side hug. "I see we are at the beach."

"On one of our special walks." She added. "See! There's the pink shells we always try to find."

Charlotte looked at him with a hopeful expression on her little face. "Could we go there today?"

Liam's smile slowly fell. "I'm sorry, dearest, but I'm very busy today."

"Oh."

Charlotte's eyes filled with tears.

Liam couldn't stand to see her unhappy. Scooping her in his arms, he hugged her close.

"We'll make time for a walk another day."

"Yes sir." She mumbled with a sniff.

He pressed a kiss to the top of her head then set her down.

"One day soon, you'll be working in here with me and your mother." He told her, hoping that might make her smile again.

Charlotte merely nodded.

"Tell you what." He tried to cajole a smile from her. "How about I try and finish work early enough so that we can have dinner together this evening?"

She nodded, her face scrunched with trying not to cry.

Liam felt his spirits plummet once more.

"Dearest," he began, "we',ll--"

"Princess Charlotte!" Nanny Ferguson burst into the room. "Oh! Forgive me, your majesty. The princess and I were in the library earlier and she must have decided to come see you."

Charlotte colored some. "I'm sorry Nanny. I didn't mean to make you worry. I just didn't want to wait on giving Father his picture."

Her middle aged nanny chuckled warmly. "I understand, your highness."

She knelt down before the little girl. "I never could wait to see my father either when I was your age."

With his brow furrowed, Liam watched his daughter take her caretaker's hand and leave. He could remember all the times in his life where he wanted a moment of his father's attention, only to be told that the needs of Cordonia must come before his own.

Didn't I want to be a different man than my father was? Madeleine and I swore when we had Charlotte that we would not mimic our parents' neglectful ways. Am I doing the very thing I never wanted to do?

"Sir," Galani interrupted his thoughts. "The phone conference with Queen Amalas is ready to begin."

"Right." He glanced down at the colorful drawing in his hands. "Thank you, Galani."

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

"Princess?" Nanny Ferguson called out. "Shall I have the staff prepare your lunch?"

Charlotte looked up from her dollhouse.

"Yes mam." She mumbled with a resigned sigh.

The crown princess missed her parents. Usually if one was busy, the other made certain to spend special time with her. Her mother had been gone for over a week and her father hadn't been able to get away from his duty.

Her nose wrinkled over that word. She still wasn't quite certain what their duty to Cordonia was. She only knew that whatever it was, it kept her from time alone with her parents.

"I hope I'm not interrupting."

Charlotte looked up in surprise to see her father poking his head into the nursery.

"Not at all, your majesty." Nanny reassured him. "The princess and I were just discussing having lunch sent up."

"I see." Liam stepped inside. He winked over at his daughter. "Nanny, might I steal Charlotte away." He cleared his throat. "It's for Crown business."

"Yes, of course." She responded. "I shall have her ready after lunch."

"I'm afraid time is of the essence." He stalked over and picked Charlotte up. "We must depart immediately."

"But, your majesty, when will--"

"No time!" He said, hurrying out the door. "I'll have her back in time for dinner."

Liam slipped through a hidden panel further down the hall which hid a staircase, set Charlotte down, and took her hand.

"Where are we going?" She whispered, knowing this stairwell was only meant to be used in emergencies.

"To the beach." He whispered back. "I escaped my duties and decided to take you with me."

"We're going to the beach?!" She covered her mouth after her excited outburst.

Liam chuckled. "We are. Your drawing made me want to spend some time there with you."

Charlotte threw her arms around his waist and hugged him tight.

Taking her hand, he led her down the stairs and out to a waiting car.

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

"We get to have a picnic too?" Charlotte's eyes widened at the large basket Bastien handed Liam.

"Of course." He smiled down at her. "You didn't think I would forget to bring all our favorite treats for our outing did you?"

"No sir." She replied taking his hand once more.

"Enjoy yourselves." Bastien called out.

"We will!" Charlotte replied.

Liam set up their picnic then gestured for Charlotte to dig through the basket for them.

"Father!" She gasped. "There's no sandwiches!"

"There's not?" He leaned over to peek into it. "That's odd. I could've sworn I packed some."

Charlotte giggled as he grumbled about his memory failing him once more.

"I guess then we are stuck with nothing but treats to eat." He pulled out pieces of vanilla cake. "We'll try and find something more sandwich like on the way back."

She settled next to his side and took a dainty bite. Her eyes closed over the sweet taste of the vanilla frosting.

"Good?" He asked, taking a bite of his own.

"Ummhmm." She said while swallowing a mouthful of cake. "Vanilla is my favorite!"

"Mine too." He added.

"This is the best lunch ever."

Liam smiled at her. "Because of the cake?"

She shook her head. "Because it's me and you at the beach."

"Ah, so it's the location that makes it the best."

"Not that!" She giggled. "Nanny brought me here a few days ago and it wasn't the best."

"No? And why wasn't it?"

"Because you were too busy to come along." She told him.

Liam wrapped his arm around her and set his plate down.

"Dearest," he said softly. "I'm sorry I've been so busy recently."

"You're king." She reminded him. "Mother said that there will be times you can't be with me because of your duty."

"That's true." He hugged her close to his side. "But you are and will always be more important than my duty to Cordonia. Everything I do is for you. I know, as king, I should say it is for our country, but ultimately, you are the only one I'm thinking of with every decision I make."

Charlotte listened quietly.

"I want you to remember that every time it seems that I'm too busy. I also want you to know that it doesn't matter how many hours I work for the Crown, I will always find time for you."

He smoothed her blonde hair back behind her ear that had escaped her ponytail.

"Can you forgive me, princess?"

Charlotte stood up and placed a kiss on Liam's forehead.

He realized she was mimicking his actions whenever she was sad or hurt.

"I forgive you." She said in her sweet, little voice.

Charlotte sat back down to finish eating her cake.

Liam pulled out some more vanilla goodies along with a dish of fruit. He felt more relaxed in this moment than he had all week.

"After we finish, why don't we see if we can find a pretty shell to add to your collection?"

"And one to surprise Mother with?" She added.

"Of course."

Liam smiled over seeing the return of her sunny personality. He didn't want to miss out on anymore special moments with her. She was already growing into a little lady. Her manners and the way she spoke showed how fast the years were slipping away from him. He couldn't let there come a day where the only memories he was left with were those of regret.

No matter what was demanded of his time, he would do all he could to never make Charlotte sad again.

[tessa-liam]

Snow Wars

Brothers-in-Arms Series- Prequel

🥰Thank you to @snoopdogcone for your ask - 

Prompt:  Snowball fight - Week 2 December 1st to 7th @choicesprompts 

Choices Book: The Royal Romance, pre-book #1

Series:  Brothers-in-Arms, prequel/one-shot 

Pairing: None  Warnings: none

Characters: Liam Rys, Drake Walker, Maxwell Beaumont, Leo Rys, Olivia Nevrakis, Eleanor Rys, Trystan Thorne 

Rating: Teen - All characters belong to Pixelberry

Category: angst/fluff, ask/prompt 

Words: 1.7k, not Beta’d, please excuse all errors 

A/N: A ”Brothers-in-Arms" series prequel

A/N2: Trystan Thorne - Choices, Crimes of Passion

A/N3: My submission for: choicesdecember2024; Day 10, snow; Day 30, snowball fight @lilyoffandoms

Brothers-in-Arms Series

Snow Wars, Prequel

Summary:  Liam, Drake, Maxwell, Olivia, Leo, and Trystan engage in a spirited snowball fight during their winter stay in Lythikos. What begins as a friendly challenge quickly turns into an epic battle, filled with strategy, laughter, and good-natured rivalry.  

On a crisp winter morning in Lythikos, eight-year-old Prince Liam gazed out of the frosted window of Lythikos keep. The fresh snowfall blanketed the landscape in a shimmering white, and an idea sparked in his young mind. 

 “Snow fort,” he whispered to himself, eyes lighting up with excitement. 

Rushing to his quarters, Liam rummaged through his suitcases until he found ‘The Young Adventurer’s Guide to Winter Fun’. A gift from his mother, Liam flipped through the pages, he stopped at a detailed diagram of a snow fort, complete with instructions on stacking snow bricks and carving tunnels. 

“This is perfect!” Liam exclaimed excitedly, clutching the book tightly and rushing back down the grand staircase. 

 He quickly found his best friends, nine- year-old Drake and eight-year-old Maxwell, in the keep's cozy sitting room. Drake, the practical and steady son of a palace guard, was warming his hands by the fire, while Maxwell, always brimming with energy, was busy fashioning a makeshift sled from a serving tray. 

“Who’s up for building the greatest snow fort in Cordonia?” Liam announced with a grin, holding up the book like a treasure map. 

Drake, ever the skeptic, raised an eyebrow. “A snow fort? Isn’t that for kids?” 

“Drake, we are kids,” Maxwell chimed in, already excited. “I’m in!” 

“Looks like we have a deal,” Liam said, clapping his hands. “Let’s divide into teams!"

Olivia, sitting quietly with her hot cocoa, perked up. “I’ll be on Liam’s team!” she declared, her cheeks turning pink. At seven years old, Olivia was already fiercely loyal to Liam, even if it was mostly because she had a budding infatuation with him. 

“First,” Liam said, flipping the book open to the diagram, “we need to make snow bricks. The book says to pack snow into molds to make them strong.” 

Drake, ever the realist, crossed his arms. “Molds? We don’t have molds.” 

“Not a problem,” Liam said confidently. “We’ll use whatever we can find—buckets, pans, anything.” 

 Armed with pots, pans, and boundless enthusiasm, the three boys and Olivia ventured into the snowy expanse and trekked to the edge of the icy lake near the keep, followed by several Royal guardsmen. The air was cold and crisp, their laughter echoing as they began packing snow into their makeshift molds. 

Maxwell, already covered in snow from head to toe, announced loudly, “I’m the official Chief. Brick. Maker!” 

 Drake rolled his eyes but couldn’t suppress a smile. “Fine but make them sturdy. No crumbling bricks.” 

Meanwhile, Olivia took charge of decorating the fort with pine branches and icicles, making it “look royal.” Adding a small Cordonian flag attached to a stick, she propped it into a turret top.

Hours passed as the boys stacked their snow bricks into walls. Liam, with the book propped open nearby, directed the construction like a young architect. Drake ensured the walls were straight and stable, while Maxwell worked on a tunnel inside the fortress walls.  

By the time the sun began to dip behind the snowy peaks of the surrounding mountains, the fort was complete. It stood tall and proud, with sturdy walls, a small entrance, and even a snowball arsenal inside. 

 “We did it!” Liam declared, his cheeks flushed with triumph. 

 Maxwell flopped onto the snow, exhausted but grinning. “This is the greatest thing we’ve ever built!” 

Drake leaned against the fort’s wall, nodding in agreement. “Not bad, Your Highness. Not bad at all.” 

 As the evening settled over Lythikos, the four friends sat inside their creation, sharing stories and sipping hot chocolate brought out by the keep’s kitchen attendants. For that moment, the snow fort wasn’t just a fort—it was their Kingdom, a place where adventure and friendship reigned supreme. 

><><>< 

 The winter sun hung low in the sky, casting a golden glow over the snow-covered grounds of the keep. Crown Prince Leo and Crown Prince Trystan of Drakovia stepped out of the black SUV, their boots crunching in the freshly fallen snow. It had been a grueling day of lessons—diplomatic protocols, strategic warfare, and a particularly tedious lecture on trade agreements—but now, finally, they were free. The sixteen-year-old young men were having military lessons at the army stronghold nearby. 

 As they walked towards the main entrance of the keep, Trystan nudged Leo with his elbow. "Looks like someone’s been busy," he said, pointing in the direction of the lake. 

Leo followed Trystan’s gaze and smirked. Beside the outline of the frozen lake stood a grand snow fort, its walls expertly packed and reinforced, with small openings that served as lookout points. Surrounding it were scattered piles of snowballs, clearly prepped for an impending battle. From behind the fort's walls, they spotted movement—Liam’s blond hair peeked out, followed by Drake’s unmistakable silhouette and they heard Maxwell’s exuberant laugh. 

“Oh, absolutely,” Leo replied with a grin. “Let’s show them why we’re the older brothers,” as they moved toward the lake. 

 Without another word, the two princes bent down, scooping up handfuls of snow to form their own ammunition. Trystan was already calculating strategy. “We’ll flank them—split up and take the high ground. They won’t know what hit them.” 

 Leo chuckled. “Or, we could just charge in and cause chaos. That’s more fun.” 

 “Chaos it is,” Trystan agreed, and with that, the battle was on. 

Behind the fort walls, Liam crouched low with Drake and Maxwell. “They’ve seen us,” Liam said, his voice tinged with excitement. “Stick to the plan.” 

 Drake, ever the strategist, nodded. “We’ve got the fort’s protection. Maxwell, you’re our wildcard. Keep them distracted.” 

 Maxwell saluted dramatically. “Distraction is my specialty.” 

As Leo and Trystan advanced, Maxwell popped up from behind the fort, holding a massive snowball. “Incoming!” he yelled, hurling it with all his might. The snowball arced through the air, landing harmlessly a few feet from Trystan, who retaliated with a well-aimed shot that splattered snow across Maxwell’s face. 

“Direct hit!” Trystan cheered. The battle began with a flurry of snowballs flying through the air. Laughter echoed across the courtyard as both teams ducked, dodged, and launched their icy ammunition. 

Leo, meanwhile, launched a barrage of snowballs at Drake, who blocked most of them with an improvised shield of snow. “That’s all you’ve got?” Drake taunted. 

 “Oh, not even close,” Leo replied, sprinting forward and scooping up more snow as he went. He hurled two snowballs at once—one hit Drake’s shoulder, the other narrowly missed Liam. 

 “Nice try!” Liam called out, popping up from his hiding spot to lob a snowball at Leo. It caught him square in the chest, leaving the older prince momentarily stunned. 

“Think we’re being challenged?” Trystan asked, raising an eyebrow. 

 “Little brother’s got a good arm!” Leo laughed, brushing snow off his coat. 

Drake proved to be an excellent snowball sniper, hitting his targets with impressive precision. Maxwell, on the other hand, turned every hit into a dramatic fall, faux-claiming to be “mortally wounded” before springing back to life. 

Olivia stuck close to Liam, her aim chillingly accurate, but her real focus on staying by his side. “Liam, watch out!” she cried, tackling him to avoid one of Leo’s well-aimed snowballs. 

“You saved me, Olivia!” Liam said with a grin. 

“Of course I did!” she replied, blushing. 

 The fight continued on with laughter echoing across the grounds. Maxwell, true to his word, caused chaos by running circles around Trystan, throwing snowballs in every direction. Drake held his ground valiantly, while Liam alternated between offense and defense, his precise throws keeping his older brother and Trystan on their toes. 

 Finally, as the sun dipped below the horizon, the princes called a truce. They stood together in the snow, breathless and rosy-cheeked, their earlier lessons and responsibilities momentarily forgotten. 

 “Not bad, little brother,” Leo said, clapping Liam on the shoulder. “But next time, Trystan and I will bring reinforcements.” 

“Bring whoever you want,” Liam replied with a smirk. “We’ll still win.” 

As they walked back to the keep, they exchanged playful jabs and stories of their victory and near-misses. For a brief moment, they weren’t princes with the weight of kingdoms on their shoulders, or children—they were just brothers, and friends enjoying the magic of a winter’s day.

The fun came to an abrupt halt when Queen Eleanor Rys, Liam’s mother, appeared on the scene, her presence regal yet warm. 

“Liam, Leo, and everyone,” she said with a smile. “It’s time to get ready for the ribbon-cutting ceremony in the city.” 

“But we’re in the middle of a war!” Leo protested, his snowball in hand. 

Eleanor raised an eyebrow. “A snowball war can wait. The people of Lythikos are expecting us, Leo.” 

“Olivia, I’d like you to join us,” Eleanor added. “I could use a young lady’s perspective.” 

Olivia’s face fell. She had been looking forward to spending the rest of the day with Liam, and the thought of being separated from him was disappointing. 

Olivia hesitated, glancing at Liam. “Do I have to?” 

Liam crouched down to her level, brushing snow off his gloves. “You’ll have fun, Liv. And I’ll see you later, okay?” 

“Okay,” she mumbled, still reluctant but unable to refuse Liam’s gentle encouragement. 

A Memorable Day ...

As Eleanor led Olivia away to a waiting SUV, the others exchanged knowing smiles. “Looks like we’ll have to finish this battle another day,” Liam said. 

“Next time, we’re building two forts,” Leo declared as he ran inside to change his clothes for the ceremony.

"Or three!" Maxwell added with a laugh.

Despite the interruption, the day had already become one of those cherished childhood memories that none of them would forget. The laughter, camaraderie, and hint of youthful rivalry in the snowy dukedom of Lythikos marked the start of many more adventures to come.

'There's so many different worlds

So many different suns

And we have just one world

But we live in different ones'

❄️Thank you @sazanes @lizzybeth1986 for creating and hosting King Liam Appreciation Week✨️💖✨️ Day 5, Healing

❄️Artwork Commission by /artbyainna

@kingliamappreciationweek

@choicesprompts

@choicescommunityevents

@choicesmonthlychallenge

@choicesficwriterscreations

❄️Tags in the comments

[kristinamae093]

Ghosted

Ghosted — Betrayal (Chapter Twelve)

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

Book/Pairing - TRR - Liam x f!MC (Riley Brooks)

A/N 1 - This AU starts right before the beginning of the engagement tour. There is a two-month lapse between the coronation and where we pick up, but we will stray from canon. Please excuse any errors found. Not beta'd.

Characters belong to Pixelberry.

Tags - @choicesficwriterscreations

It's another long one 😬👉👈🥹. Oops.

Liam and Drake closely followed as the guards led Bastien into the depths of the Portavirian estate. The halls remained eerily quiet as the nobility slept; not a soul to be found other than those involved with Penelope’s homicide investigation. Neither male spoke a word, but both reeled in this blindsiding revelation.

The betrayal Liam felt was like no other. Bastien was like a father to him, always around when he needed someone, but now he wondered if he ever knew him. Bastien saw him at his lowest and protected him at all costs, but somewhere along the way he changed; he couldn’t determine when that shift happened or if his guard was that good of a deceiver from the start, and felt like a fool for not seeing his insubordination sooner. It didn’t matter what he said, nor how much he pleaded; Liam already knew he was guilty, but didn’t know the extent of his involvement.

So many unanswered questions ran rampant through his mind, but ultimately the one he cared about was, where is Riley? The scandal was no longer relevant; all that mattered was finding her and ensuring she was safe. Justice would be served to all who deserved it later but right now, she was the top priority. That wasn’t a new revelation, but the urgency suddenly skyrocketed.

Liam did his best to stay afloat, but couldn’t stop his mind from wandering. If Riley was still in the country, what did that mean? Was she being held hostage somewhere? Would a ransom note appear at some point? Is she even alive? The continuous spiral intensified and formed a vortex of frustration and confusion, enveloping him from the inside out. He wanted to scream and cry to the heavens, anything to relieve some of the never-ending tension slowly constricting his muscles. Every second that passed without knowing she was safe, he grew weaker, feeling control slip right through his fingertips. The never-ending vat of unanswered questions took their physical and mental toll on Liam as a monarch and man alike.

However, every ounce of strength that remained pushed him forward. The adrenaline coursing through his veins mindlessly carried him, as he and Drake walked in deafening silence.

They continued until they entered a dark room with a table and two chairs. The guards sat Bastien down on one side and secured shackles in place over his wrists, much to his displeasure. Liam took the seat that mirrored his, shooing the bystanders out as he did. Drake lingered close by, reeling in his feelings of hurt, betrayal, and anger. Bastien quieted, but his entire body went rigid after his former subordinates exited the room. Liam placed his hands on the table and stared at them for a long while, trying to slow the wild rush inside his mind.

He finally raised his head and spoke to Bastien in the flattest, calmest tone he could muster. “Do you know why you’re here?”

“I don’t, sir.”

“First, let’s talk about Penelope. You and I both know she did not take her own life, so I’m curious to know how you came to that conclusion.”

Bastien furrowed his brow. “Not to be forward, but she was literally hanging from the ceiling… We found a note in her room, and she had every reason to want to do it — considering she was about to be arrested.”

“Right… Speaking of that… I want to see that report again.”

“Pardon?”

“The report — the one that says Penelope’s DNA was all over the murder weapon because honestly, I think you’re full of shit.” Liam hissed.

“I most certainly am not, sir. The documents are in the security office. If you remove these cuffs, I will gladly retrieve them.” Bastien confidently responded.

“That won’t be necessary.” Liam knew if he told the truth, Olivia would find them and if she didn’t, Bastien just caught himself in another lie. “Now, the next order of business — where were you the night of the jamboree? I don’t remember seeing you at all.”

Bastien stiffened. “I was doing security checks around the estate—”

“If you were doing security checks, how’d a rogue photographer make it in?” Drake interjected.

Bastien swallowed thickly, his gulp echoing in the silence. “... What?”

“You heard what he said — answer the damn question.” Liam snapped.

“She must have—”

“She?” Liam interrupted with a chortle. “That’s funny — because I never mentioned gender. Do you know something that I don’t?”

“I only took a guess — there was a fifty percent chance I would be correct.” Bastien calmly, yet firmly, answered with a dismissive shrug. “I’m not precisely sure how they breached the perimeter, but we’ve been working to strengthen our units ever since.”

“Right…” Liam nodded and forcefully clenched his jaw. It took every ounce of his restraint not to reach across the table and wrap his hands around Bastien’s throat because he couldn’t trust a single word coming out of his mouth.

Drake spoke again before Liam could act on his intrusive thoughts. “What about the Apple Banquet? Where were you then?”

“I was with His Majesty while he spoke to the Beaumonts. Someone alerted me to the body, and I immediately sprung into the proper protocol.”

“No, not when the maid was found — earlier. Where were you before that?” Liam demanded.

Bastien hesitated, but quickly fixed his features. “I was addressing an issue regarding Countess Madeleine’s security arrangements. Her old guard needed to take personal leave, so I had to find a suitable replacement.”

“... And she will vouch for you?”

“Yes, sir.”

Liam’s frustration skyrocketed, as he didn’t know how to take that statement. The number of people he could trust seemed to only shorten by the day, yet Madeleine was never present, nor even an honorable mention on that list; the time to trust her word was not amid this chaos.

“Okay, then—” Liam started again, his agitation noticeably rising. “Do you know where Riley is?”

“I don’t, sir. All I know is she returned to New York, and—”

“How did you come to that conclusion, exactly? Because I’ve done some digging and found nothing to point to that. There are no traces of her after she left the jamboree whatsoever, Bastien; not flights, not vehicles — nothing.”

Bastien shifted in his seat. “My information led me to that conclusion, Your Majesty.”

“Well, your information was wrong, and I can’t help but feel you knew that all along, didn’t you?”

“I’m not sure what you’re insinuating, but—”

“You knew she didn’t return to New York because you took her away, right? Is that how she made it out undetected? Or are you the one who assaulted her?” Liam thought back to his out-of-body experience and remembered the shadow lingering in front of her door. “Or did you stand guard while it happened? Is that it?”

“I did no such thing.” Bastien hastily replied, but cleared his throat and added, “What would I gain from any of this? Why would I give a damn who you choose?”

“That’s kind of what I’m wondering.” Drake inserted with a skeptical eye. “Look, Bas — I don’t want to believe you had a hand in all this, but it’s not looking good, man.”

“What doesn’t look good?” Bastien returned. “All I’ve done is look for her! I’ve been trying to help you!”

“Bullshit,” Liam seethed. “You know something and I demand you tell me — right now.”

“I know nothing, sir. I’ve kept you updated on every piece of information uncovered.”

“You need to understand something —” Liam's breaths turned heavy and his face flushed every shade of crimson. “I am not fucking around. This is your final opportunity — if you know something and do not tell me, I will serve your head on a silver fucking platter at the next state function. Is that clear enough for you?” He rumbled through clenched teeth. The hand he raised to point at Bastien visibly trembled, as the dam broke and rage flowed freely through his body.

Bastien’s eyes widened, and he visibly swallowed. He quickly composed himself and softly answered, “I understand the circumstances have been — tense — for everyone involved. You’ve had a rough couple of weeks, and —”

Liam slammed his fist onto the table and shot up from his seat. “Do NOT fucking patronize me!” He bellowed.

The door suddenly swung open and Olivia marched inside. In her hands, she carried a folder along with a few smaller items, but her facial expression was the picture-perfect image of unrestrained fury. “You have a lot of explaining to do.” She rumbled as she bore her eyes into Bastien.

Never could she have imagined the man sitting before her would betray them in such a way, but now they had proof; undeniable, unavoidable, but yet — incredibly unsettling evidence.

Bastien audibly gulped as he recognized the documents and all traces of pigment in his complexion vanished. With so much going on, he didn’t have the chance to dispose of everything properly. Liam and his group of friends moved faster than anticipated, and with their unexpected changes to the tour, he fell behind. The important information was extracted long ago, but what remained was still very incriminating — for Bastien.

Powerful forces expected him to pull off the impossible, but he was only one person — how was he supposed to fend off four people, plus a hired professional? Multiple ends that should’ve received immediate attention didn’t. Penelope ranked fairly high on that list, but his concerns got cast aside. His instructions were to deflect, deter, and stay silent regarding the madness; trust the process and your reward will be bountiful, they would say. Regardless, he didn’t want to aid in this crazy scheme, but had no choice — they knew information about his past nobody should have uncovered, so he found himself backed into a corner.

But as Bastien stared at the evidence of his transgressions, he realized silence would no longer be an option. He knew one way or another at that moment he was as good as dead; the question was would it be at the hands of his seething monarch, the man he practically raised, or the people who made his life a living hell to begin with?

Olivia rifled through the things on the table until she found what she searched for. “Remember when Bastien told you he disposed of Riley’s phone and her note?” She held both items up to show everyone along with her letter, noting how the guard immediately tucked his chin into his chest. “The penmanship matches mine, meaning it’s the same as Penelope’s.”

Liam forcefully clenched his jaw. “You lied to me?”

“That’s not all,” Olivia continued. “Bastien told us Penelope is the one who killed the maid, but that’s not true. Sure, the gum was hers — hair too — but the funny thing is that as it turns out, there are two sets of results on that knife.”

“There’s not—”

Olivia cackled, cutting Bastien off. “Don’t even try to lie. I’m holding what appears to be the real results in my hands. What kind of moron keeps the original if he’s planning on cloning it to frame someone else? Fucking nitwit.” She shook her head, distaste lacing her words. “Of course, we’ll have these confirmed for legitimacy, but considering who this one lists as the culprit, I can see why you’d want to cover this up.”

Liam snatched the documents from her and scanned them. His eyes widened as he went through the text, his jaw falling further and further the longer he read. Penelope's fingerprints were on the murder weapon, but unlike the last report he saw, this one went more in-depth. Her DNA might've been on the knife, but only one or two barely distinguishable smears on the blade itself belonged to her. However, the lab noted prominent traces from someone else located everywhere, but mostly on the handle, indicating that their person of interest should be whoever the second set of prints belonged to.

But Liam never received this report, and when he read who the database found as the owner of that second set of prints, he realized why he wasn’t shown.

“It was you…” Liam gasped, finally tearing his attention off the file to center his glare on Bastien. “Why?”

Bastien remained silent. He kept his gaze locked on the table, but the sweat forming on his brow wasn’t unnoticed.

“We know why, Liam. He was trying to shut her up because she spoke with us. And that’s why he offed Penelope too — right, Bastien?” Olivia answered. “Dispose of the loose ends before they can out you?”

“I did not harm Lady Penelope in any way,” Bastien stated with utmost determination, looking directly into Olivia’s steely eyes as he did.

“But you know who did, and you were working to bury that too, correct?” She quickly retorted, arching her brow.

Bastien clenched his jaw and looked away, refusing to speak, but he didn’t need to — Olivia knew she was right.

“You can deny those accusations all you want, but the next ones will be fairly difficult to talk yourself out of,” Olivia snapped as she produced another file and showed it to everyone.

“Operation Ghost?” That title caught Liam’s attention, and his mouth fell agape when he read it. He flipped through the papers inside and realized this was a meticulously planned mission, not a coincidence. While he spiraled deeper into the abyss, further away from reality, intentional carnage ran rampant within his court, and it was all a part of the elaborate plan from the beginning.

Someone plotted to hurt Riley and take her away from him, and that thought momentarily left him breathless.

“Apparently so,” Olivia answered, remorse cracking through her stony features upon seeing Liam’s broken shock. She’d already searched the file and knew what lay ahead, but didn’t know how he would react; it wouldn’t be good regardless. “Someone altered or destroyed most of this —” She paused to throw a death glare at Bastien. “But… There’s something else…”

“What is it?” Drake inquired as he and Liam took in her hesitancy, causing the hair on the nape of their necks to stand at attention.

With a heavy sigh, Olivia opened an envelope and produced a few smaller documents. She slammed them down on the table one at a time, directly in Bastien’s downward cast line of vision. “Here’s Riley’s ID, her passport, and even her goddamn credit cards. Now tell me, Bastien — how did you think she got to New York without those?”

Liam snapped his head over to her. “What?!” He snatched the items off the table and stared at the photo on Riley’s passport in his trembling hands, his heart rate taking flight.

His worst fears suddenly became reality, because he knew it would’ve been impossible for her to get out of the country without identification. This confirmed that Ray was right; she never left Cordonia. Of everything he suspected of Bastien, the things he knew and worked to cover up completely blindsided Liam. It hurt him in a way he didn’t know was possible, to be betrayed by someone he put every single ounce of his trust in.

Plus, had it not been for Olivia and Ray, he probably would have gotten away with it, too. The thought alone created a forceful swarm of guilt as Liam realized once again — this was what he ignored for so long. His breaths turned shallow as his mind took this new information and ran with it, automatically assuming the worst and with no signs to point in a different direction, he couldn’t find any strings of hope no matter which way he looked.

The waves came crashing down, sending him into an instant spiral of equal parts devastation and fear. He swayed on his feet, but eventually lowered himself back into his chair, willing the wild rush to slow.

“What the fuck is this?!” Drake exclaimed, smoke nearly barreling out of his ears. “Where is she?!”

“I don’t know.”

“Bullshit! She couldn’t leave without this! You’ve been lying to us all along!”

“I did what I had to,” Bastien returned, his voice devoid of all emotion. “You wouldn’t understand.”

“What did you do to her, Bastien?!” Olivia reiterated. “You can’t deny you know something — if she’s in danger, you need to tell us so we can find her!”

“I did nothing to her! All I did was escort her from the premises to the airport — that’s it.” Bastien huffed, immediately regretting the slip-up, which earned him a unanimous gasp.

“What did you just say?” Liam rumbled with clenched fists, his daze of self-hatred shattering on the spot.

Bastien hesitated but realized it was useless to redact. “I said I escorted her from the premises—”

Liam lunged for him without a second thought. He slammed his face into the table and held him there with all his might by the back of his skull. “So you not only knew, but you fucking helped too?!”

“I did what I had—”

“You son of a bitch!” Liam yelled as he lifted Bastien’s head, only to bounce his cheek against the table with increased force. “I trusted you!”

Bastien tried to respond, but Liam swiftly continued. “You have manipulated and made a fool of me for the LAST fucking time! I told you what I’d do, yet you still lied to me? YOUR MONARCH?!”

Again, Bastien attempted to speak, but Liam wasn’t quite finished. “This WHOLE TIME… You’ve known — you fucking helped — but you continuously led me astray.”

“Sir—”

“YOU DO NOT SPEAK OVER ME!” Liam bellowed, slamming Bastien’s head a third time.

A long silence passed as Liam securely held Bastien by the back of his neck, using more force with every passing second. He saw nothing but blood — everything that would’ve gotten covered up ran through his mind; the murders, Riley, and what seemed to be a never-ending list of other possibilities.

Finally, Bastien timidly sliced through the tension. “Sir, I’m willing to tell you what I know and what I’ve done in exchange for safety. If you do not ensure my life, I will be dead within hours.” He pleaded, preparing to meet the table again. “You have no reason to trust me now, but I will tell you what I can…” He emphasized.

Liam met eyes with Olivia and Drake, a silent conversation taking place. In all honesty, nobody cared what happened to him after the fact; all that mattered right now was getting Bastien to talk by any means necessary. Whoever wanted him dead was more than welcome to finish the job, but not until after he confessed.

Liam released him with a shove but never said a word. Instead, he strode back to the chair across from Bastien and slowly retook his seat. When Liam lifted his head, the pure fury staring back at him slightly took Bastien aback. The patient presence he’d grown accustomed to was long gone, replaced by a man driven to the brink of insanity. Those typically bright baby blues were now dark, vicious, and wild — nearly animalistic as his stare tore through Bastien. It sent a shiver of dread down his spine and made him momentarily fearful of his usually calm and composed king. His head throbbed, but he knew that would not be the worst of what he received — regardless of whose hands he suffered from.

Liam intently held his gaze for a long moment, clenching and unclenching his jaw, but finally spoke in an eerily calm voice. “... Tell us.”

Bastien strode through the country jamboree with an uneasy feeling in the pit of his stomach as he recalled what would happen tonight. A suitor would be removed from the competition, with or without her cooperation. The trap was loaded and ready to go; all they needed was the prey — Riley.

Bastien located Penelope in the crowd and watched her approach Riley. She was deep into a conversation with Maxwell, but Penelope slipped in and played the part surprisingly well. He recognized her shaky hands even from afar, but she discreetly slipped at least half of the pharmaceuticals into Riley’s drink, unbeknownst to her or Maxwell. He didn’t think that part was necessary, but the force beyond insisted it was essential so they would force her to her room before everyone else.

After a time, Bastien observed as Riley hugged Maxwell and headed toward the estate. He quietly followed behind in the shadows as she walked through the deserted halls to her room, cursing the creaky floorboards underneath his feet, but the woman he trailed didn’t notice a thing. Riley skipped, hummed a tune, and even did a little twirl; she had no cares in the world and had no clue that her perception of a fairy tale was about to be shattered.

As her door shut, Bastien took position outside, crossed his arms, and waited for the job to be completed. Everyone else remained at the party outside; it was his assignment to ensure the vicinity stayed clear. He knew who occupied the room neighboring hers, which only fueled the need to get this done and over with as quickly and smoothly as possible.

People spoke behind the door — the voices escalating by the second — but Bastien made it a point to drown them out. The situation could go one of two ways, depending on Riley's cooperation, and it didn't take long for him to realize she chose the hard way. Although he found it difficult to ignore her pleas for help, his allegiance aligned elsewhere.

After a time, a few gentlemen approached but Bastien allowed them access, as he expected them. He didn’t know who they were, just that they would deal with ‘relocating’ Tariq; his task was Riley. One had jet-black hair, while the other donned a baseball cap. They wore a matching dark ensemble, aside from the hat and one having thick, circular lens glasses. A holster of weapons surrounded their belts, making the hair on his arms stiffen. The pair went inside without a word, but Bastien felt their eyes on him as they entered.

The deafening silence hung for what felt like centuries, but eventually, they re-emerged with their cargo in tow.

“Unhand me this instant!” Tariq demanded as the muscles dragged him away.

“Not a chance, fancy boy.” The man with glasses snickered. “Got a special place for you.”

“I did what I was supposed to do!” Tariq pleaded, his tone changing once he realized the seriousness of his situation. “Please — have some compassion!”

“No can do. Boss’s orders were strict — toss you in a hole and throw those God-awful loafers into the ocean.” The dark-haired male snapped his fingers before adding, “I can leave the shoes on if you’d prefer — put some cement in them and send you both on a journey to the bottom of the Mediterranean.” His delight showed brightly, causing Bastien’s pulse rate to skyrocket.

Tariq suddenly planted his feet firmly on the ground. “DO YOU KNOW WHO I AM?! OR WHO MY FATHER IS?” He bellowed. “You won’t get away with this — I WILL ENSURE THAT YOU—”

Out of nowhere, the male with the ball cap hit him with the butt of his pistol, silencing his tirade. Tariq slumped to the floor with his eyes rolled back, blood gushing from his nose in an instant.

“Thank you, Claudius. I couldn’t stomach another second of his useless ranting.”

“You and I both.”

“Get him loaded up — we’re on a schedule and need to move.” Claudius hefted Tariq on his shoulder with ease and quickly left out the servants’ exit. As he disappeared, the remaining man shifted his attention to Bastien. “So… You’re prepared to handle the fallout?”

“Of course.” He confidently responded.

“Are you sure? Because I don't think you understand how messy this situation could get in the future… And honestly? If the boss hadn’t enlisted little Miss Penny, this entire operation would’ve crashed and burned before it even took off.” He rolled his eyes. “You thought she would agree to this just for a spot beside the queen?”

“It might surprise you what people will do to get ahead around here.”

“Yes, but they’re willing to execute better with a little — added motivation.” He flashed a wide, sinister smile. “You should know better than anyone…”

Bastien swallowed thickly, his entire body going rigid. “I’m not sure what you’re referencing.”

“Of course not.” He snickered. “I don’t blame you — I wouldn’t want anyone to know you’re the one who mur—”

Bastien held a hand up. “That’s enough.” He spat out.

The male’s smile widened. “As I said, people execute better with added motivation.” He patted Bastien’s shoulder with a little too much force.

“Was there a point to this?” Bastien rumbled through clenched teeth, shaking off the man’s palm.

“I just wanted to make sure it’s one hundred percent clear — you need to ensure anything regarding this stays buried. If too many people ask the right questions before we reach the finish line and the boss has to get involved again… Well —” He grinned, baring his teeth. “That’d just be a shame, wouldn’t it?”

A chill shot down the length of Bastien’s spine. “What is that supposed to mean? Are you threatening me?”

“You may not be the brightest crayon in the box, but you’re not that stupid — you know what will happen.” He responded, amusement written on his cold features. His almond eyes deepened to black, leaving Bastien momentarily speechless.

“I’m certain that won’t be necessary.” Bastien confidently answered after he regained his composure. His companion nodded with an eerie smirk but casually lingered around the door. “Is there something else I can do for you?”

“I was just wondering about Lady Riley… Where you’re planning on sending her since you received the — opportunity to handle her?” He nonchalantly inquired, acting as disinterested as possible. “Such a great honor you have… One I practically begged for.”

“The States, where she came from.” Bastien’s direction was to ship her back to New York as discreetly as possible. Even though the plan took a drastic turn, that was the one constant that couldn't change because otherwise, they would out themselves for taking the reins and disobeying a direct order. She would land on her feet, start a new life, and forget all about Cordonia. Liam would surely want to search for her, but all Bastien had to do was stall until the coronation, when their cover for removing Riley would come to light.

“I see, I see… Well, hopefully, that works out for her.” He smiled, the sight raising goosebumps on Bastien’s arms.

Before Bastien could respond, the door creaked open, and a hooded presence strode out. He paid Bastien no mind, instead focusing on the dark-haired male. “Let us vacate. The party is nearly over, and we have tremendous amounts of work ahead of us if we want to pull this off.”

“What about the court? We can’t go back to —”

“Do not fret, Anton… We have a plan… Trust the process; this is only the beginning. Everything will work out as it should in due time, but we must move — now.”

The pair quickly walked away, but not before Bastien heard Anton loudly whisper, “About that — pit-stop…” to his companion.

Bastien momentarily pondered that statement, but shook off the queasiness inside his stomach, concluding they must be referring to Tariq. As he stared at Riley’s door, a brief flicker of guilt traveled through him. Riley did nothing wrong, and he knew that, but this is the task he regretfully accepted. It was not a personal vendetta, by any means, but this clueless woman aimlessly landed herself in the middle of the nobility; she didn’t understand the untold, dark side of the court and its inhabitants, but would learn on this day.

Bastien cautiously opened the door and entered to find Riley on the edge of her bed, cradling her side. She snapped her head over to him as she heard his footsteps, and her eyes filled to the brim with tears when she met his gaze. He once again fought a wave of remorse at seeing her hopeful expression, knowing he was not the knight in shining armor she assumed he was.

“Bastien, you—you have to help me… Please…” Riley croaked. Her words came out slightly slurred, although it surprised him that the earlier sedatives hadn’t taken a harder effect.

“I’m going to, Lady Riley. First, I need to ensure you’re not carrying anything on you.”

Bastien assisted Riley to a standing position, which she slowly did without question. He didn’t know exactly what transpired, but she had a gash on her side, blood soaking through the thin hoodie she wore. With her permission, he checked the wounds, none of which were bad enough to seek immediate medical attention. Her face was littered with cuts, surely bruises to follow with time, as one of her cheeks was already tinted with a light purple. He started at her shoulders and patted down to her abdomen, but stopped when he felt something in her pocket and pulled out her phone. He nonchalantly slipped the device into his jacket, but despite his best efforts, Riley watched him do it.

“That is my property! You can’t take that!” She protested.

“I’m afraid I can… You are to leave completely empty-handed. Now, we have to get going — you have a flight to catch.” Bastien placed a hand on Riley’s arm to lead her away.

Riley firmly planted her feet in place, shaking away his grip. “Don’t do this, Bastien!”

“You have no choice in this matter and we’re on a time limit,” Bastien replied as he checked his watch.

“What about all my stuff?”

“As I said, empty-handed.” He didn’t understand that part either, but concluded it was easier to shove her on a plane with no items to accompany her.

“On whose authority?!” Riley exclaimed. When he didn’t answer, she reiterated, “Who told you to do this to me, Bastien?!”

“That is confidential information.”

Riley snorted, her frustration written all over her face. “Bullshit! At least be man enough to tell me!”

“Fine. You want to know who did it?” He held her glare, letting the tension linger, but finally answered, “It was Liam.”

Riley stepped away as if she took a blow to the gut, but her devastation quickly morphed into the polar opposite.

Riley laughed; hard enough that tears spilled down her cheeks. “You expect me to believe that? Liam? Of all people?” She shook her head, slightly bouncing from her chuckles. “You think I’m that naïve and stupid?”

“Believe what you will, that matters not to me but my instructions were simple, so we must get moving.” He stated, very matter-of-factly.

“Bastien,” Riley pleaded, any signs of amusement suddenly disappearing. “Don’t do this. I’ll just — I don’t know!” She cried, anxiety prominent in her features. “I won’t say anything to anyone — I swear on my grandmother’s life! Or–or we can tell Liam! Whatever got you wrapped up in this, he will understand.” She reasoned. “Please — you don’t have to conform. We can find a way out of this together.”

Bastien considered it for a second, but ultimately gave Riley a sad smile and nudged her toward the door. Tears flowed freely down her cheeks, but he remained firm. He quickly dropped her phone and the pre-written note he received inside her bedside table and went to the threshold, stepping over shards of glass from a broken planter and a bloodied garment.

Leaving her phone there meant it would be an immediate dead end for Liam and her sponsors. He would want to call her — possibly track her — but this ensured that door was closed before it could even be opened. It was a distraction tactic to keep the prince occupied until his reason for her departure would present itself to him, where hopefully, he would drop the matter for good.

Bastien held her stare for a moment before he cleared his throat, emphasizing the need to move. Riley hung her head and eventually slowly walked out the door, quietly sobbing as she did.

Bastien led her down the long hallway toward the servants’ exit, as their SUV waited close by. Riley was incredibly unsteady on her feet, whether it was from the earlier medication or her injuries, he wasn’t sure, but he held his hand out to steady her wobbly steps on multiple occasions. He glanced back and locked eyes with the maid he summoned to clean the area, and even with his dark sunglasses, he still spotted her apprehension. The interaction was brief as he and Riley reached the end of the hallway, but something in his gut said he would have to deal with that later.

Assisting Riley down the stairs turned out to be tricky, as she was in an incredible amount of pain. By the end, he hoisted her over his shoulder and carried her the rest of the way down. She didn’t yell or scream, not that it would have mattered if she tried; the party still ‘raged�� in the opposite direction, leaving the vicinity barren of wandering ears. If she got combative he had a plan for that as well, but was glad she opted to cooperate, instead of throwing a tantrum and meeting a fate similar to Tariq.

He sat her on her feet when they emerged outside and escorted her to the vehicle, quickly securing her inside. He used no restraints, but she didn’t resist one bit; almost as if she’d accepted her fate, or her body just didn’t have the strength to fight back. There were no remnants of Tariq or anyone else, but Bastien moved with fire under his feet as if someone lurked right around the corner.

Within the blink of an eye, they were at the airport, where Bastien unloaded her from the back of the car. The entire ride he heard Riley’s sniffles from the backseat, but he drove faster — to unload this package and hopefully, this would be a straightforward operation. Once she was out of the vehicle his job should be done, unless too many questions arose.

Bastien parked toward the back of the abandoned parking lot so the only thing on security footage would be Riley entering the airport. With his connections, he knew exactly where the cameras were and discreetly slipped into a blind spot. Riley could hardly stand as he pulled her from the vehicle, but that was not his concern.

He did his part — all she had to do was walk inside and leave Cordonia forever.

He shoved a small envelope into her hands and said, “Here is your ID, passport, credit cards, and a ticket to New York. It’s been a pleasure, Lady Riley.” And with that, Bastien turned on his heel and returned to his vehicle, speeding away before he could second guess his decision.

He glanced back in the rearview mirror and saw the silhouette of a woman standing there disoriented, wounded, alone, terrified, and defenseless, but quickly averted his gaze, centering on the road. He nearly pushed his foot through the floorboard to get away faster, but bile rose into the back of his throat as a chilling realization sat in; he didn’t know how, but this was far from over, and the chances of him making it to see his next birthday just substantially dwindled.

“I assumed she boarded the plane, but I later received her identification and credit cards in a sealed envelope from an unidentifiable source. I tried to help her… I really did…” Bastien finished with his head bowed.

“No, you sure as shit did not!” Drake bellowed, a mix of fury and shock written on his features. “I can’t believe you!”

Bastien flinched. “I did what I had to do—”

“Where is she, then? Because she never got on that fucking plane, Bastien!” Olivia hollered.

“I don’t know! I told you everything I know about it! I tried to find out, but I can’t!”

“This is fucking unreal.” Drake shook his head and scoffed. “You expect me to believe you really don’t know? You have her ID! Her goddamn passport!”

Bastien forcefully clenched his jaw. “I received them before the tour in a sealed envelope. I don’t know where it came from and I can't trace its origin.”

Drake scowled. “We’re supposed to believe that?” He looked away and rubbed a hand down his face, his frustration steadily rising. “Let’s say I do — you chose to keep that to yourself? You didn’t think that was worth mentioning when we opened an investigation into her goddamned disappearance?!” He over-enunciated, sarcasm dripping off every syllable.

“What was I supposed to do, Drake?!” Bastien responded, but couldn’t fathom meeting his eyes for even a brief second.

“Not be a spineless piece of shit, for one,” Olivia answered. “For two, you could’ve refused to cooperate from the beginning. Or, told the truth, regardless of what would’ve happened to you then… Or, made sure she got on the plane, at least. You drugged her and left her for dead, Bastien! Who knows where she’s at by now?! Do you realize how much time we’ve wasted because of you?!”

“I did not drug her or leave her for dead—”

“But you didn’t fucking stop it either, and that’s just as damning in my eyes,” Drake spoke in a bland, empty voice as he tried to comprehend this betrayal. “I don’t know what happened to you, but you’re not the man I used to look up to, not anymore… I can’t believe you did this and continuously lied to us about it!”

Bastien slouched. “I never lied—”

“Bullshit! You’ve done nothing but lie! You’ve gotta stop and tell us the truth for once!”

“I told you everything I know, everything I’ve done. I killed the maid and had every intention of Lady Penelope taking the fall — I’ve led you astray and tampered with evidence — I admit it.”

“I don’t care about any of that shit right now!” Drake shouted. “We wanna know what you did with Brooks, Bastien.”

Bastien sighed. “Drake, I told you, I don’t know where she’s at! She was supposed to go inside and board the plane!”

“But you didn’t wait and ensure she did, at least?” Olivia asked with an arched brow.

“I didn’t think I needed to! After what I heard coming out of that room, I assumed she would run inside to get away… If anyone knows, it’s probably that Anton character!”

“Anton…” Olivia repeated, her curiosity peaking. “What do you know about him? And the other guy? Claudius?”

“Absolutely nothing. I’d never seen them before and haven’t since. All I know is they were in charge of relocating Tariq.”

“And you don’t know where that is, either?”

“No, I don’t. I didn’t ask questions, and I wasn’t told. I ran their names in the system to see if I could figure anything out, but they’re ghosts — there aren’t even medical records with either name on it.”

Olivia scoffed. “So, why do it, then?”

“I have my reasons…” He finally gathered the courage to take a peek in Drake's direction, but when he spotted the wild blaze of fire in his eyes, swiftly glanced away.

“Yeah… Okay…” Olivia indignantly laughed. “So was this your idea, or were you working under someone else’s watch?” He didn’t reply, but she and Drake noticed his shoulders tense. “That’s all the answer I need. So who is it? Who’s pulling the strings here?”

Bastien shook his head. “That I can’t tell you.”

“You’re already a dead man no matter which way you look at it, so you may as well just tell us. If you do, there is the tiniest chance that you may receive mercy,” Olivia growled as her hand instinctively reached for the dagger hidden in her waistband.

“I’m aware of that, but I cannot tell you.”

“Bas, you need to fucking—”

“Damn it, Drake, I can’t!” Bastien shouted. He knew the pain Drake felt was nothing compared to what he’d feel if he knew the truth, but he refused to open that can of worms.

Liam remained eerily quiet as he listened to Bastien retell the events of that night. To say he was fuming would be the understatement of the millennium. Bastien’s continuous misleading and knowledge of Riley being drugged, assaulted, and potentially still in Cordonia sent Liam overboard. Not to mention, he basically left her for dead in a parking lot. Bastien did all of that; he may not have physically harmed her himself, but he stood guard, let it happen, and actively worked to cover it up, making Liam physically sick to his stomach.

The all-consuming rage he tried to control reached its boiling point. He was no longer asking nicely — he was demanding.

Liam slowly stood from his chair, the loud screech halting the surrounding bickering. He leaned over the table on his knuckles and positioned himself at eye level with his former guard. “You told her that I did it?”

Bastien’s eyes spread eagle. “I just needed to get her out of the door… I assumed that would get her to leave willingly, but she didn’t believe a word I said.”

Liam indignantly laughed, the sound sending waves of uncertainty through everyone in the room. “So it wasn’t enough to physically break her — you had to pile emotional pain on top, too?”

“Sir, she did not believe me,” Bastien reasoned. “She knew you would never do such a thing. It was only a last-ditch attempt on my part to get her out.”

Liam mindlessly nodded, ignoring the new wave of dread filling his veins. He’d convinced himself even through all this madness, when they reached the bottom of this intricate web, there was still a slight chance Riley could love him back, but that hope burst into flames instantaneously. Regardless of whether she believed the lie, he was more determined than ever to find her, ensure her safety, and make sure she knew he played no part in this. He had no intentions of hiding his prolonged negligence of the situation from her, but wasn’t willing to let her hate him over something he had no part of.

Liam took a deep, steadying breath and spoke in a low, timbre rumble. “I’m ordering you to tell me who orchestrated all this, Bastien — you owe me that much.”

Bastien remained silent for a long moment as he held his monarch’s intent gaze. Eventually, he sat back in his chair and broke eye contact while pursing his lips together. “Damn it, tell me!” Liam shouted, his voice echoing against the concrete walls.

Bastien hesitated, as he quickly planned his path from here. The potential to get caught was always there, and he thought extensively about what he would do and who to say in this situation. His secrets fueled a small portion of his decision, but the majority centered around fear. He wouldn’t be safe either way but would take his punishment from the crown. Aside from keeping his skeletons inside the closet, to defy the — others — would essentially put nails in his coffin, just waiting to be hammered in. He’d seen firsthand the carnage they were capable of; a couple of treason charges were nothing in comparison.

But if he pointed them in the right direction, it wouldn't be him outing the culprit.

The tension lingered but right when Olivia opened her mouth to push, Bastien quietly answered, “It was your father…”

The room went silent; not a single breath to be heard. Olivia took in the steadfast determination in Bastien’s features and knew for once — he wasn’t lying. And it made some sense; Bastien was purely manpower, not an active brain contributing, and Constantine had the power to force him into anything. However, she instantly knew the former monarch was not the person behind that door with Riley.

Constantine was in high demand and there was no way he could’ve slipped away from the jamboree that early unnoticed. Olivia recalled that night, and to her knowledge, Constantine retired at the same time as Liam. Plus, if they believed Liam’s out-of-body experience to be reality, Constantine was right beside him while the attack took place.

She believed him but also realized while he told the truth, he didn’t tell all of it. There was more to the story, and she intended to get any and every ounce of information out of him, no matter what it took.

Olivia opened her mouth to address Bastien, but Liam beat her to it. “My father?” He repeated, confusion showcased brightly on his face.

“Yes, sir,” Bastien softly spoke. “I know that may be hard for you to hear, but—”

“Shut the fuck up!” Liam suddenly bellowed as his shock quickly morphed into dangerous fury. “You’re still trying to lie?!”

Bastien’s eyes widened. “I swear to you — he’s the one who told me to send her back to New York.”

Liam shook his head, his face reddening with every sullen breath. “No… You’re just trying to cover your own ass, that’s it!”

Bastien sighed. “I don’t expect you to believe me, but that is the truth. Your father is the one who—”

Liam paced the small area, his racing thoughts spiraling out of control. “My father would not do this, regardless of how strongly he felt about it. This is fucking evil and deranged — he is a lot of things, but he would never do something like this to me.” He seethed. “So I will ask you one final time — who was it?”

Silence commenced once more, but Bastien eventually answered. “I told you who it was. If you choose not to believe me, that’s your prerogative. I did what he ordered me to do.”

Fast as lightning, Liam brought his fist up and connected with Bastien’s jaw. He went around the table and hit him again, and again, until Bastien was on his knees with his head dangling in between his still cuffed hands. Liam didn’t care if he killed him or not at that moment; all that mattered was exacting revenge on behalf of his beloved, even if she wasn’t there to witness it. The monarch checked out, replaced by a vicious beast — a starved one, at that.

Liam saw nothing except Riley’s face, the sound of her cries from his out-of-body experience echoing in his mind. His hand throbbed as he relentlessly took his frustrations out on Bastien, but he barely felt it because of the pure hatred and adrenaline pumping through his veins.

Olivia and Drake watched, exchanging worried glances as Liam continued his assault. Both felt incredible amounts of anger toward Bastien, but they saw the bits of truth. Liam might not want to believe it, but Constantine made the most sense.

However, Olivia wholeheartedly believed Constantine was not the one in that room. He may have ordered Bastien to engage, but deep down she knew he was not the one calling the shots that night. As Liam continued to pummel him, she had half a mind to stop him, but the person taking out his anger on his crumpled guard was not her childhood friend, and even she was hesitant to interfere.

It was Drake who finally intervened, laying a firm hand on his shoulder. “Li…” When Liam shook him off, he tried again with more force. “Liam!”

“Get your fucking hands off of me!” Liam shouted, quickly returning to his mission. Every bone that snapped underneath his fist soothed a portion of his soul, but he wasn’t willing to stop until Bastien felt even a small portion of the pain enveloping his entire being.

The door crept open and Leo went to step inside, Maxwell close behind, but halted when he spotted a bloodied and battered Bastien dangling from the side of the table. Liam continued his attack, completely oblivious to the additional presences in the room. Leo noticed the mixed expressions from Olivia and Drake and quickly pieced a vague conclusion together. Never in his life did he think Bastien could be capable of such atrocities, but clearly they found something to tie him to it.

Leo stepped toward Liam and timidly tapped his shoulder to gather his attention. “Li, we found Penelope. She was headed to the palace with orders for incineration upon arrival, but we stopped it and she should be back soon. I talked with Landon and Emmaline and they’ve agreed to send her wherever you see fit for autopsy. Ray recommended a specialist, but I wanted your input before I started the process.”

Liam finally stopped his assault and stared down at Bastien’s crumpled body with labored breaths. “The amount of which you’re willing to go to bury this is ridiculous! WHO could be that important that you would do all this — risk EVERYTHING for?!” He bellowed, his voice booming against the walls.

Bastien never answered, whether by choice or from his injuries, but a silence took over as Liam really pondered that question for a moment. This wasn’t just some measly scandal anymore; this was an extensive operation concocted to remove the top competitors and ensure he married Madeleine. At first assumption, it would be easy to point a finger at Madeleine herself, but Bastien held no allegiance to her, and the two hardly spoke before the start of the engagement tour. She held no power over him and had no way to get him to bend to her will.

And that was simply too easy — right?

Bastien’s involvement suddenly narrowed down the potential list of suspects, as Liam knew there was a very short number of people he would have no choice but to obey. Despite everything, he didn’t want to believe Bastien willingly did all of this. He expressed feeling some kind of remorse while it was happening, but he still aided and lied about it afterward, making his guilt irrelevant.

He had no reason to trust Bastien, but the more he thought about it, the more his heart accepted the tale.

The betrayal from his former guard was a lot to process, but knowing who could have ultimately constructed the whole thing shredded him into a million tiny pieces. Half of him was ready to unleash a wrath like no other, while the other half wanted to crumple into a ball and cry. His already fragile heart couldn't take the strain; right when he thought this situation couldn't get worse, it did. Someone so close forcefully took something so precious, knowing how much Riley meant to him, and it completely blindsided him.

His back hit the wall and he slid down it, clutching his chest. Leo and Drake quickly moved to catch him, thinking he was having another episode, but Liam shook them off. As everyone took in his dejection, they realized he accepted who their next subject of questioning would be.

“Leo…” Liam swallowed thickly, his breaths rapid and labored. “Tell me — tell me our father wouldn’t do this… He’s not evil, just hard-headed — right?”

Leo winced. “I… I wish I could, Li, but…” He didn’t want to believe it but with Constantine’s infatuation with the throne, he couldn’t put it past him. Their father was never malicious, but he had a control problem regarding the crown; Leo knew firsthand.

But would he go this far?

Liam let out a forceful huff of air and ran his hands down his face, trying and failing to keep his tears at bay. “I — I thought it was bad that Bastien betrayed me, but — him? Why would he do this?”

“I want to answer that, Liam, but I’m not the person to ask… One way or another, you know we have to confront him…”

Liam grimly nodded. “I know… I just — what if he is the one who did all of this? What am I supposed to do then, Leo?”

Leo remained silent for a long moment, gathering his thoughts, but was to no avail, as he genuinely didn’t have an answer. “I don’t know, Liam… I really don’t…”

[lilyoffandoms]

Family Addition for @lorirwritesfanfic

Based on your response to this ask and your fic, Family Addition. Hope I did Liam and Bianca’s relationship justice (I love how you captured cats (and dogs) sixth sense about those people that would just rather not so well with little Bianca haha).

I am so so sorry about being hella late with this @choicesfandomappreciation Secret Pal gift. I hope you had an amazing Christmas and that the new year brings you all the beautiful and joyous things 💕

My Art Ish Thing Tag (Choices Edition): @storyofmychoices (thanks for filling in for me and taking some of the pressure off my shoulders until I could get to finishing it) @aallotarenunelma @twinkleallnight @dutifullynuttywitch @loreofyore @peonierose @trappedinfanfiction

[superharriet]

And now I miss him so much again... which reminds me that I still haven't finished the final chapter of TRF. I can't. God, the chokehold he has on me... Still, after all these years and all those wasted chapters of TRH when PB could have made him the Alpha, the Fucking King, the Ruler, the Majesty he deserved to be and turned him into a side character. After all these amazing fanfics, where he was shown in all his different shades, with flaws, kinks, anger, passion, duty that often binds him, love above all. Liam. There will never be a fictional man that could compare to him.

"Know that he will want to give you everything. He will love you entirely. That's the way his heart is."

queen eleanor talking about liam 💔

[twinkleallnight]

Book: TRR AU/ Once upon a time prequel

Belongs to my series: Estranged part 5

Pairings:Liam x Savannah

Word count:2502

Disclaimer: All characters belong to pixelberry.

Rating: Mature

Warning: none

Prompt: The @kingliamappreciationweek (day 2:Vanilla ) thank you @lizzybeth1986 beta reading this.

🥀🥀🥀🥀🥀🥀🥀🥀🥀🥀🥀🥀🥀🥀🥀

Liam had promised Savannah that he won't meet Fabian without her permission but he couldn't control himself. ‘I am only going to watch from a distance. I am not meeting him so technically I am keeping my word.’ he thinks. And so when Savannah walks down to Fabian's day care he discreetly follows her.

He eagerly waits behind the dense hedge of the Mastic tree, for Savannah to come out of the day care. Liam's heart soars high at the first sight of his son. He is mesmerized at the sight of his own miniature form trotting down along with a grown up Savannah. He steps back to keep away from them. They cross over, Fabian busy narrating the events of the day to his mother. He picks up on their conversation. Fabian is explaining, “....I told her it's simply milk, cream and plain vanilla, isn't it mother?” Savannah nods. Fabian punches his fist in air. “I knew it. I couldn't be wrong with my favourite drink.”

‘He likes Vanilla, just like me!’ Liam is excited on discovering a tiniest detail about his son. He wants to know more but he has to patiently wait for Savannah’s call. He starts walking back to his hotel. Seeing Fabian with Savannah takes his mind to the memories of yesteryears when he was with his mother…..

Little Liam walked with a skip to his mother. She could see through his focused eyes that he had an agenda in his mind. He stopped a few steps away from her and stood with his arms pushed back, his fingers wrapped tightly around each other behind his back.

“Mother, when are we going to visit Drake’s place?” He asked, hiding his nervousness.

“After two days my son,” Eleanor replied wondering where his thoughts are wavering. “why?”

“Oh, it is nothing, mother.” Liam tried to make it light.

Eleanor pulled him to her holding both his arms. “I can see you are pretty excited about something. What is going on in that smart head of yours?”

He brought his hands ahead, fidgeting with Eleanor’s scarf. Coyly, he raised his eyes to her. “I… I am fond of the vanilla shake that Drake’s mom whips.”

“Aahaan ! So you want to visit them just for that milkshake. I bet I can make one too” Eleanor teased.

Liam jerked back. “Not just any milk shake, mother. It’s Bianca’s special vanilla milkshake. Besides, playing around their cozy little rooms with Savannah.” He tried reasoning.

“I never knew you like to play with that little girl.”

“I meant Drake and Savannah.” Liam added.

“Hmm. So Drake and Savannah?”

“And Vanilla shake.” Liam reminded her.

“And the vanilla shake.” Eleanor repeated. “You are sure you are not hiding anything else ?”

“No mother, it’s Vanilla milkshake.” Liam laughed shyly.

Savannah’s home. Lozzi village, Corsica.

Savannah had narrated many bedtime stories about King Liam to Fabian and she had narrated many stories about his father though she was always careful not to overlap any of those. But today everything seems difficult. She tries to speak to Fabian throughout the day and each time she finds herself beating around the bush. She always thought she would be ready and exhilarated to introduce Fabian to his father. Now she is at a loss of words.

After dinner, Fabian makes his bed with his mother and gets under the covers. Savannah keeps roaming around his room still pondering where to start.

“Mom?”

“Yes, baby.”

“Are you worried about something?”

She stops replacing things idly and looks at him, “Not exactly, dear.”

“Did I do something wrong?”

Savannah leaves everything aside and moves towards his bed to sit beside him. “You didn't…Why would you say that?”

“Because I can see you picking up the same things and placing them back again, going round and round the room. You do that when something is bothering you.”

“Oh Fabian!” Savannah bends down to place a kiss on his forehead. “You are such a sweetheart . Always so observant and caring.” ‘Just like your father’, she thinks.

“Does this mean there is something nagging you?”

“Nothing, dear. Actually it's just that… I want to ask you something.”

“What is it?”

She pats on his blanket and moves her fingers gently through his golden locks. “You remember, you lost that set of colour pens I gifted you last Christmas?”

“That one? I found it, mom. It was just misplaced under the pile of my colouring sheets.”

“And how did it feel, getting it back?”

He claps his hands gleefully, “I was so glad, I found those. They are the best gift.”

Savannah smiles. “What if I tell you that you are going to get the best gift you could have ever wished for?”

“What could that thing be?”

“Fabian, it's not a thing. It's a person who wants to meet you.”

“Do I know them?”

“Yes, you know him by certain names , now you will see him right in front of your eyes.”

“Does he know me?”

“Yes, very well.”

“Is he important to you, mother?” he asks in a serious tone making Savannah smile. His change of tone taking the matter at hand seriously reminds her again of the similarities he shares with Liam.

“Yes. He is someone very important.”

“Someone like….do you mean… like is there... is he… is he your boyfriend?”

Savannah laughs out loudly at that and starts shaking her head in denial.

Fabian pouts his lower lip and lowers his eyelids in embarrassment. “I am sorry. I just…”

Savannah cuddles him up. “You don’t have to be. Fabian, it’s time you meet your family, my child. He is one of the important part of our family. Let’s just meet once and then we take it ahead from there.”

The word family has Fabian thrilled. He has been patiently waiting to see uncles and aunts, grandparents and cousins like all other children do. He leaps at the opportunity. “Okay, when are we meeting?”

“Whenever you are comfortable.”

“I am ready, mom. Like, right now .” he emphasizes with his small hands.

“That’s great. Although right now won’t nd possible. How about breakfast tomorrow?”

“I would love that, mom” he beams at her.

“Okay, tomorrow morning then it is. Breakfast.”

“Will you be able to make some vanilla shake?”

“Why not. See you my sunshine. Good night. “

“Good night mom.”

Savannah trudges to the bedroom still smiling at Fabian’s vanilla shake request. ‘Like father, like son.’ She remembers how Liam too used to like Vanilla shake . He had once visited with Drake after a polo match and they all had shake made by Savannah.

She got into her bed, remembering the young age fun.......

“What man! I defeated the prince and all I get is a vanilla shake?” Drake whined to Liam.

“Vanilla shake is a good celebration, Drake.” Liam tried to convince.

“Yes, try it.” Savannah said walking in with three tall glasses in a tray.

“Cheers!” said Liam, picking up his glass.

Without a minute to waste he took a big sip and so did Savannah while Drake just watched them in disinterest.

“Who has vanilla shake for celebrating a victory?” he was mumbling when he heard his sister giggle.

He followed her gaze settling on Liam’s face that had a big white moustache of cream. Drake smirked.

“What ?” Liam asked looking between both of them.

She pointed out snickering, “ You got a big Moustache like an old man.”

Instead of wiping it off, Liam got up to look into the reflection on the TV’s black LED screen.

He turned towards Savannah and boomed, “Ho,Ho,Ho. I am Santa Claus. I am here to give you the Christmas present. What do you wish? Tell me young lady and I will grant it.”

Savannah shied looking at Liam’s playful manner and giggled more while Drake rolled his eyes.

She shakes her head to come back to reality and messages Liam inviting him for the breakfast. Next moment she goes into a deep slumber while thinking about the golden days. It has been a long day.

Next morning

Savannah greets Liam and ushers him into her humble abode. There in front him stands his replica. Fabian’s sandy blonde hair and ocean blue eyes are a straightforward giveaway for anyone to see.

Savannah awkwardly smiles and tries to break the ice. “Fabian, Come meet William.” She introduces.

“Good morning Fabian. I am William.” Liam says.

“Good morning sir,I am Fabian.” He moves ahead and shakes his hand in a very formal manner. Liam is surprised and impressed too.

“Pleasure meeting you.”

Savannah guides them to the dining table where Fabian already has his glass placed. “Please have a seat. I will be back in a minute”

She goes to the kitchen leaving them alone for sometime.

Fabian is slurping his favourite Vanilla shake while his eyes are fixed on the man who has come to meet him. Surprisingly his looks are too familiar to him. So he is observing him with his big blue eyes.

Liam smiles at him waiting for Savannah to join them.

“You like Vanilla Shake?”

Fabian nods, “Its my favourite drink.” He swallows in another sip and asks, “What is your favourite?”

“Same as yours.” Liam bends over the small round table, to whisper.

Fabian imitates bending towards him and whispers back . “My Mommy makes the best vanilla shake. You can ask her for some. She won’t deny. She has a big heart.”

Liam straightens. “I know, Fabian. I love the one she makes.”

Savannah walks out of her kitchen holding two glasses and offers one to Liam.

Vanilla shake. His favourite drink that Bianca made, that Savannah learnt and mastered from her mother, that his son is also fond of. He gives out a heavy breath that he didn’t realise he was holding up and takes the drink from her hands and places it on the table.

He gives a dry smile, first time at loss of words.

Savannah nods slightly telling him to wait. She is going to handle it. ‘The way she handled everything in her life. Alone.’ Liam thought. She is stronger than anyone can think of. She is stronger than him. He knows. So he lets her take the reins of this moment.

She sits down beside Fabian, her son and starts. “Fabian, you remember those bedtime stories?” she pulls him into her lap.

“Yes, Mother.” He answers and Liam thinks. ‘Oh, he answers like me!’

“Do you remember, you always felt strongly about one person in particular, in those stories?” Savannah continues.

Fabian nods, stealing a glance at Liam.

‘Was it me?’ Liam questions himself silently.

“Mommy?” Fabian holds on to her hands, “Is he really King Liam?”

While Liam is surprised that his son has recognised him, Savannah isn’t. She knows how her eight year old was smarter than any kid around. She simply nods.

Fabian’s gaze is intense making Liam squirm in his chair. The fear of rejection grappling him. ‘What if … ? ‘

Before Liam’s mind could wander into the threatening possibilities, Fabian shocks him with another question. “Are you my father?”

Liam expected Savannah to tell Fabian about him. But his son is intelligent enough to connect the missing dots. Liam loses control over the stoic appearance he carries. His emotions are raw as he looks at Savannah. She nods at him.

He Is scared, ‘What if…?’ his mind is continuously taking him down the spiral, ‘What if Fabian doesn’t accept me? What if he hates me?’ He shakes away the wild thoughts and swallows. He doesn’t realise his mouth has gone dry. A heavy minute passes before he answers, “Yes.”

Fabian breaks away from his mother’s arms and leaps to hug Liam taking him back with surprise, yet again. His short arms circle Liam’s neck as he hugs tightly, resting his head on Liam’s broad chest.

“I knew it.” He utters. “I knew it, father. I am glad you could come. I am very happy that you came.” He keeps repeating. “ I am sorry, you had to go through so much, Father. I am sorry I couldn’t help you. I am sorry, I wasn’t there to tell you that we love you and we care for you, father. We do, we really, really do. Both Mommy and I do.”

Savannah had told Liam that Fabian knew about him. But he didn’t expect the little one to forget his own hardships and instead console his father. Liam hugs him back, tears falling unfiltered from his eyes, breaking his strong façade of a king. Fabian has not only accepted him but is pouring out all his love and affection forgetting all the wrong that happened. His little boy is already so grown up and he has missed it all! His heart brakes at the thought and he looks up at Savannah.

She sits there, quietly watching the reunion, wiping away her tears. Fabian made her proud. And then, this man! She catches his gaze and he mouths the words at her, ‘Thank you.’

He caresses Fabian, moving his hand over his head and then placing a kiss in his hair. His other hand is still snuggled around his son’s little frame. Fabian looks up and Liam cups his face placing kisses on his forehead and cheeks and the nose and his eyes. He can never get tired of kissing his son but Fabian shakes his head. Liam stops. ‘Does he not like my kisses?’

Fabian shakes his hand while he raises his tiny little fingers and starts wiping Liam’s tears.

‘Oh dear God! I need to learn a lot from my son.’ Liam thinks and smiles through the tears, hugging his son again. He stretches out an arm for Savannah to join in and Fabian circles his one arm around his mother other arm latching on to his father.

After a long time, they finally sit around the small circular table, Fabian settled in Liam’s lap.

Savannah pushes the vanilla shake that sat idly on the table towards Liam.

Liam instantly indulges into his drink. After a gulping half the glass in one go, he smiles at Fabian.

Fabian looks wide eyed at Liam and then back at his mother . He is not sure if he can react in front of his father. When he sees his mother chuckling, he joins in.

Liam gives them a confused look.

“What happened ? He asks.

“You got moustaches like Santa!” Fabian splits into a laughter.

Liam catches Savannah go stiff at mention of Santa. The memories come back to her like a whiplash. Before Fabian could notice his mother’s sad face, Liam jumps at him and grabs him. “Ho,Ho,Ho. I am Santa Claus. I am here to give you the Christmas present. What do you wish? Tell me young boy and I will grant it.” Liam circles his arms around Fabian

Fabian rolls out laughing, “Really?”

“Always!” Liam beams hugging Fabian and looking at Savannah with a promise in his eyes.

🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹

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

[eadanga]

Royal Christmas

Liam looks at the decorated tree and smiles “This is amazing”

“Dada!”

He looks over and sees his 2 year daughter Angel toddling towards him ornament in hand

He chuckles as he lifts her up and puts her near a branch “There you go my little princess”

Angel puts the ornament on and claps her hands “Yay!”

He kisses her on the cheek “Thanks for your help you love our Christmas tree”

“Ya!”

“I’m glad I know your mother would love it too can’t wait till she gets back and sees this”

“Juicy!”

Liam chuckles “Ok let’s get you some juice” He leads her to the kitchen and opens the fridge “What would you like” Angel thinks for a moment then points “The orange juice excellent choice” He sits her on the table and pours juice into her cup “Here you are your highness”

“Yay!” She takes the juice and shoves into her mouth

“Whoa!” He stops her then guides her cup slowly to her mouth “Slowly we changed your clothes once today”

“Sowy dada”

“It’s ok my princess now are you ready for Christmas and to open your presents”

“Ya!”

“Good Santa left many gifts under the tree and so did Daddy and Mommy and Uncle Drake Hana Maxwell and”

“Yay!” Angel throws her arms around him “Wub you dada”

He sighs tears coming to his eyes as he returns the embrace “I love you too my princess”

“Dada sad?”

“No sweetheart I just love you so much so glad you’re here with me”

“Aww look at my two favorite people”

Liam turns around and sees Riley standing there looking at them

“Mama!”

“Hi baby how are you”

Angel throws her arms up “Whee!”

Riley giggles “That’s good to hear” She kisses her cheek then turns to Liam “I see you’re having fun”

“Well I was just getting her juice and getting her excited for the holiday season”

“She sure is and so am I can’t wait to see what you’ve got planned for this year can’t I get a hint”

“Nope it’s a secret my love” He kisses her forehead

“Well ok can I at least see the tree”

“Right this way my queen” He takes Angel in his arms and walks to the Christmas tree

Riley grins “Liam this is amazing you out do yourself every year”

“That look on your face well worth it and this year I got some traditions I know you’ll love”

“Can we build gingerbread houses too?”

Liam chuckles “I didn’t forget about that we’re gonna do that every year”

Riley grins “I love it Liam”

“But you know the best part”

“What’s that Liam”

He wraps his arm around her waist pulling her closer “Spending the holidays with my two favorite girls”

“Aww Liam I love you”

“I love you too and your family is flying in right?”

“Yup mom and dad are boarding the next flight”

“Great this is gonna be an amazing Christmas”

He kisses her deeply “I love you”

“I love you too”

“Wub you too!”

They both laughs “We love you to cutie”

Tags: @choicesgodfanatic @indiacater @princess-geek @iaminlovewithtrr @gkittylove99 @the-soot-sprite @kingliam2019

@twinkleallnight

[katedrakeohd]

Heartstopper (Part 1)

Masterlist

This is my entry for King Liam appreciation week 2024. @kingliamappreciationweek

@tessa-liam @sazanes @rafasgirl23415

@lizzybeth1986 @kingliam2019

Klaw Day 2

Character Appreciation/Vanilla

Summary:

It's Coronation night and the unthinkable has happened for the new King of Cordonia as the woman of his dreams gets dragged out of the ballroom.

Cast: the usual TRR gang, with Kate Darling as the MC from New York. In this story the King's name is Nicholas instead of Liam.

Author's note:

Prepare yourself for all the angst and heartbreak as the story is told mostly from the young King's perspective.

Rated: M for Mature - Angst, swearing, violence, bodily harm, car chase, fluff

-__-----_👑_-----__-

The crowded ballroom was filled with a cacophony of sound, but Nicholas tuned it all out. At the back of the room, the love of his life, Kate Darling, was being dragged away by his own security guards. Her face was twisted in a look of shock and betrayal as their eyes met. He mouthed a silent, Kate, as the crowd poured into the space where she had once stood. His eyes frantically searched for her, but she was gone.

Next to him on the stage Madeleine stood with a perfectly crafted fake smile on her face. He was still holding her hand, because he had just named her as his choice as Queen. Her name had left a sour taste in his mouth, and he felt queasy. A cold sweat bloomed on his upper lip, and he lifted his other hand to his mouth to wipe it.

"Nicholas?.. Nicholas?..."she said behind her clenched white teeth, "Say something."

She curled her fingernails into his palm to get his attention and he recoiled, dropping her hand.

He raised his hands up in an attempt to appease the uproar of the people as the wave of sound finally enveloped him like a tide. "Please! Please Everyone! If you could direct your attention this way." He raised his voice and the heads started to turn and the crowd began to still.

"Thank-you." He stepped closer to Madeleine and tucked his forearm stiffly behind her back to draw her to him. He looked at Madeleine and then turned back to the crowd and forced a happy smile onto his face.

"Please allow me to present her Royal Highness, Queen Madeleine Amaranth."

The crowd of strangers erupted into applause, their faces beaming with pride for their new King and Queen.

As he held his smile in place, his stepmother Regina walked over to stand at his other side. She grasped his hand, and he squeezed back tightly, making her wince. "Where are they taking her?"

Regina waved to the crowd and then leaned in to answer. "They're sending that insufferable slut back to New York, where she belongs."

"Over my dead body," he grounded back angrily and dropped her hand. He took a step back and with a quick salute to the crowd he slipped through the curtains and then out the door to the balcony.

The warm Mediterranean air smelled much sweeter than all the sweaty heavily perfumed party goers crowded into the ballroom. Not that he didn't wear cologne himself, but he missed the sweet scent of Kate's vanilla perfume most. He took a deep breath and then pulled out his mobile phone. Below the balcony there was a sea of paparazzi photographers and reporters with news cameras and microphones. When they saw him, their shouted appeals for his attention overlapped like squabbling water fowl. He turned away from the camera flashes and the video spotlights to stand in the sliver of shadow next to the building. He tore a small hanging flower pot off the wall and used it to smash out the bulbs of the light sconces by the doors. This gave him a little more darkness and he heaved a deep sigh to calm himself as he dialed Bastien, his head of security.

Bastien picked up on the second ring, "Yes, Sire? How may I be of service?"

The relative calm in the guards voice made Nicholas lose his own. "..be of service?! What the fuck, Bastien? We never agreed to have her dragged out like a criminal."

"I'm sorry, Sir."

"What happened to quietly escorting her out after the gala was over? And where are Drake and the Beaumont Brothers?"

Bastien broke away to talk to someone else briefly and then returned, "As per your Father's request the Beaumonts and Mr. Walker have also been removed and detained..."

Nicholas interrupted, "Detained? But why? They're hardly threats to anyone."

Bastien calmly replied,"I was just doing as I was told, Sir. But as for Mr. Walker, he is no longer in custody."

Nicholas chuckled, "Of course he isn't. Let me guess, he hit you."

"Not me, Sir. But one of the junior cadets now has a sprained wrist and a broken nose."

"Good, tell him he's fired."

Nicholas hung up and then went to the far corner of the balcony to catch a glimpse of the black line up of fleet vehicles by the gate. Only one had it's engine running. He used his phone to take a picture of it, zooming in on the serial number badge on the back window. 725

He dialed Drake, hoping he was nearby.

A few agonizing seconds of dial tone tone later, Drake answered. He sounded slightly winded as if he was running. "Nic?! ..what the fuck? This is not a good time. .. I'm being chased by one of Bastien's minions."

"Hold on.." Nicholas hung up and then sent an angry text to his head of security.

HRH : Tell your god damned attack dog to stand down and let Drake go.

Nicholas looked back toward the gate. He saw a pair of guards forcefully trying to escort a woman in blue toward the waiting SUV. Kate was putting up the fight of her life. Bless her heart.

His heart sank as he saw one of the guards slap her hard across the face. She went limp in the other guard's arms.

Nicholas's phone started ringing. It was Drake. He kept his eyes on the guards as they shoved her bodily into the back of the SUV. He answered the call.

"Talk to me."

Drake was clearly out of breath, he struggled to put his sentence together. "I ..*huff*..gue..guess ..*huff* I lost him."

"Good, where are you?"

Drake was a little more composed as he replied, "I .. I'm heading toward the service ...entrance by the East Courtyard. I can see a crowd of reporters waiting outside."

Nicholas nodded his approval, "Good, that's right below me. I'll distract them so you can get through."

Drake stopped at the door, "Where do you need me to go?"

Nicholas walked back to the right and closer to the balcony railing. "They're trying to send her back to America, Drake. I just saw some guards shove Kate into the back of an SUV."

"Those bastards! Where, what SUV?" Drake spat back angrily.

"Number 725, over by the gate, and hurry I think they're leaving."

"On it. Just get these paps outta my way. Are you giving me permission to use whatever methods I want."

"Affirmative, BFI is now in effect. Good luck."

Nicholas reached the railing, and as predicted, the reporters followed. A flood of flashing camera light and a chorus of demands met him as he casually leaned on the railing. He ignored their questions and struck up a casual conversation with them instead, determined to take their attention off Drake so he could get away.

"Good Evening everyone. Lovely weather we're having tonight for the Coronation..."

Drake pushed the door open and elbowed his way through the crowd. "Excuse me...pardon me...move! ..Hey, look over that way. The King is doing interviews.."

He stomped through the garden bushes on the edge of the courtyard, taking a short cut to the gate. There were four black SUVs parked by the curb, but none of them had drivers. 725 had already left.

Drake presumed that the airport was the destination, but with the extra traffic in the city tonight clogging the roads because of the gala they shouldn't be too far ahead. On the other side of the gateyard civilian and diplomat cars were parked and waiting. A silver sedan had it's engine running and a chauffeur behind the wheel. Bingo

He looked left and right to check for moving vehicles and then cut across the gravel to the sedan. He knocked on the window and the startled driver looked up from his phone. He buzzed the window down. "Uh, Hello? Is the gala over already?"

Drake shook his head, leaning heavily on the door so he could look the driver in the eye. "No, but I need a ride."

The driver looked over at Drake's large hands as they gripped the door frame. He visibly swallowed. "I'm s..sorry Sir, but I'm here for the ambassador." He glanced down at the phone in his lap and then back at Drake. He started tapping out a message.

"Nope, I wasn't asking."

Drake reached in the window and grabbed the guy's phone out of his hands and threw it like a frisbee off into the bushes. "Go fetch."

The driver protested, "Hey!" And then reached for the door handle to open the door. Drake stepped out of his way and then jumped into the driver's seat. He slammed the door shut and locked it, and then threw the shifter into drive.

Gravel sprayed up from the tires as the Audi dug in deep with its four wheel drive. He tugged the seatbelt across and clicked it into place as he shot through the open gate. He glanced to his left and right quickly to check for impending collisions and then cranked the wheel hard to the left and fishtailed into the line of traffic. He wiped the trickle of sweat off his brow and quickly assessed the road ahead. He eased off the gas and slowed down a little, searching for an opening to weave into. A car up ahead signaled and then changed lanes to turn left. He pulled into the left turning lane and then cut sharply to the right to squeeze into the gap. A chorus of honks protested this move and he shrugged, bite me. As the line of traffic rolled up to a red light, he shifted into Park and struggled his way out of his suit jacket. His phone slipped out of his pocket as his coat got turned inside out and tossed on the passenger seat. His phone rang from where it had landed on the floor as the line of traffic moved again. He shook his head nope and shifted back into Drive.

Nicholas held court with the reporters for about five minutes, just long enough to see the silver sedan exit the gate in a hurry. With a smile he waved goodbye to the reporters and then went back inside the Palace.

The gala was in full swing as if he hadn't left. Music was playing and people were dancing. Everyone else mingled and drank his champagne. He didn't feel like partying. He meandered through the throng of dancers and drinkers. Some of them stopped him long enough to shake his hand. He graciously accepted their congratulations and then moved on. He finally made it to the double doors at the back of the ballroom and the security guards held people back as he passed. He nodded his thanks and then headed for the wood paneled "door" beside the suit of armor in the hallway. It looked like any other carved alcove like all the others, but this one led to his own private elevator. He pressed his thumb print on the scanner hidden inside the shiny button. A vibration signaled that his thumb was read correctly and the panel opened. He stepped in and then pushed the arrow up button. The door slid closed and he sagged back against the wall. He hoped that Drake was successful and got to Kate in time.

Drake crept forward with the traffic, whipping out into the left turning lane to leap frog whenever he could. He wasn't sure how effective this method was, but at least it alleviated the tedium of stop and go traffic. He kept scanning the line of traffic up ahead for the telltale high roofline of the royal fleet SUV. So far no such luck. The exit for the airport was coming up soon, about a kilometre away. Hopefully that route wasn't as crowded as this one.

In the backseat of 725, Kate Darling was lying down with her eyes closed. She wasn't asleep, but listening instead to the two guards arguing in the front seat.

"I told you, we should have taken the turn onto Spencer Avenue. We'd be closer to the airport by now," the guard on the right complained.

"And I told you not to smack the girl around. If that hit gets leaked back at the Palace we're screwed."

The guy on the right shrugged, "Who's she gonna tell? She'll be on a flight back to America within the hour."

Kate touched her sore cheek. There was going to be a big bruise there soon, and it was going to speak for itself. The thought of going back home to America made her want to cry. She had left her old life behind four months ago, and didn't want to go back. She felt the SUV swing hard to the left, and held onto the seat to stop herself from tumbling onto the floor. The vehicle sped forward and Kate's stomach lurched with panic. If they had turned onto another road, it most likely meant that the airport wasn't far away. She had to do something.

Drake saw the turn off for the airport coming up on his left, he signaled and went into the left turning lane. After turning left he took the onramp that swung around to cross over the boulevard that he'd just been on. This road had a faster speed limit and the traffic had thinned out considerably. He leaned into the gas pedal and sped up to make it into the flow of traffic. Now he could definitely catch up. He just hoped he wasn't too far behind.

Kate sat up, and the pain in her head throbbed. He had evidently hit her harder than she thought. She caught the driver's gaze in the rearview mirror and he jumped in surprise. "Oh shit, Cinderella is awake." He smiled uneasily.

She narrowed her eyes at him, "Don't call me that. I have a proper name you know."

The guard on the right turned to look back at her, "It's the color of your dress. It reminds him of Cinderella."

Kate looked down at her dress, "Oh right. I'm Kate by the way. And when Nicholas gets a hold of you two, you'll wish you'd never been born."

The driver scoffed, "We're not afraid of him."

Kate quirked her eyebrow and smirked, she pointed to her swollen cheek. "And when Drake sees this and finds out who you are, you're gonna beg for mercy."

The guy on the right scoffed, "Drake who?"

Kate laughed, but then winced in pain, instantly regretting it, "Oh, He's just the King's best friend and my personal bodyguard. And when I say he takes any harm done to me personally I'm not exaggerating."

The guards up front went quiet, and Kate slid over in her seat and buckled up. This was going to hurt, but it was time to put her plan into action. The doors were all locked because they were traveling forward, but she knew that in the event of an accident that the locks would disengage. She crossed one leg over the other and removed her high heeled shoe. The guards up front weren't paying attention to her anymore. She looked out the darkly tinted window and noticed it was starting to rain. It was go time.

"Hey!" She shouted, and got the startled reaction from the driver that she was expecting. He looked over his shoulder at her and in the process jerked the wheel to the right, at the same time she launched her high heel at his face and it lodged into his eye. He screamed in pain and his hands flew up off the steering wheel, "You Bitch!"

Kate braced herself as the car swung wildly from left to right, and then she heard the tires crunch onto the right hand gravel. A split second later the SUV started to roll and she hugged herself and prayed that the airbags would catch her.

[xxrainbow-princessxx]

Does Distance Make The Heart Grow Fonder? - Oneshot Isabella x Mafia!Leo (Rules of Engagement/The Royal Romance AU) - Part 1

Summary: Isabella and Leo’s Kingdoms both were overthrown by the Via Imperii. The Crown Princess along with her family were exiled whilst the Cordonian Royal Family went underground, fighting to reclaim their throne and hold over the Cordonian People through other means.

TW: Cursing, Implied Violence, Violence, Implied 🍋

Tagging: @lorirwritesfanfic @drakewalkerfantasy @rainbowsinthestorm

@lorircreates @beyondsimsreality @kimmiedoo5 @mom2000aggie @kingliam2019 @secretaryunpaid @rafasgirl23415

“Look who’s back in town…” Liam grinned as he threw down the folded morning newspaper in front of Leo who was already in an Italian cut navy dress suit. His sea green eyes narrowed slightly as he read the headline article, ‘Exiled Crown Princess, Isabella Beaumont-Sánchez to take up Honorary Professor role at Cordonia University’ followed by taking in the professional headshot of the Laurentian beauty who looked no different to how she did when he last saw her at 21.

“At 26…” Liam cleared his throat, “She’s done pretty well for herself…” Leo pursed his lips in silence remembering the last time he saw her, how she ghosted him and how when his world fell apart - she wasn’t there to save him, save them. Lifting his coffee, Leo sighed before taking in the strong aroma, letting the warm liquid soothe his otherwise cold demeanour and with a grumble, he pushed the newspaper out of the way, “So fucking what…” The younger Rys son was taken back slightly at his brother’s reaction, he had loved this woman; she was on a pedestal and the main reason none of Leo’s relationships ever worked out but now she was here, in arms reach - he barely reacted at all. “Leo…” Liam tried to reason with him but was immediately cut off, “Brother…” Leo grunted, “I am warning you, one more word on the subject and I will personally cut out your vocal chords…”

A few weeks had passed. The former Crown Prince, now a well known mobster, found himself staring at his bedroom ceiling most nights lying in bed in his Valtorian mansion. He couldn’t forget what they had, what they were willing to sacrifice for each other to now not even uttering a simple hello or gesture. Leo blamed the Via Imperii for his lost love but once he too had been exiled and the Cordonian Kingdom overthrown, he tried to reach out again but his attempts remained unanswered. Did he really want to find out the truth or would the truth be too much to bear? To Leo, she was the only part of him that was still good, everything else was gone long ago. He was cold, calculating and no matter what he tried to feel something, it had no effect until he saw that picture Liam had shown him a few weeks earlier. After that, his body stung, every pain he locked away seemed to almost re-emerge all at once. “Fuck it” Leo grunted as he rolled over, punching his pillow to make it more comfortable, “Anything can’t be worse than this…”

The following afternoon, Leo had business to attend in the capital. “Does that sounds amenable sir?” Leo’s assistant spoke but Liam and Drake knew something was up, watching as Leo kept staring off out the boardroom meeting room, “We’ll come back on that…” Liam interjected, “Thank you Sofie, I can take it from here…” before Leo signed off something he might later regret his answer to and Liam wasn’t willing to take the wrap on something that when Leo came to that he would be pissed about. “I need some fresh air…” the former Crown Prince mumbled under his breath. Placing his heavily tattooed hands on the table, he pushed himself upwards, pulling his dark woollen coat around him. Turning up his coat collar and shoving his hands into his pockets, Leo walked where his heart took him, passing through the crowds who unknowingly were brushing shoulders with the mafia boss. It was only when Leo finally looked up, he found himself across the street from the University. “Fucking now or never I guess…” Leo shrugged, as he walked across the street.

It didn’t take him long to find out if Isabella was there or not; the packed lecture theatre gave it away. He slipped in quietly, hiding in the shadows as he watched her work. “But your Royal Highness, surely it is not fitting for someone of your stature to discuss economic growth in a democracy? Particularly when the democracy you were brought up in, it was your own family who created such laws?” Isabella’s eyes searched the theatre, her dark chocolate brown eyes narrowed slightly as she found her heckler. “There’s a few things I believe Señor that is important to have corrected - Please do not refer to me in any Royal regard, my name is Isabella Sánchez, so in this class, Ms. Sánchez is appropriate. Secondly, the Kingdom that I lived in may have been presided by a Royal family who were involved heavily in the decision making process, but there was an autonomous government in place to look out for the people… today, that Kingdom does not have said government and is ruled by one group of people - but that is a discussion for your European History classes, not mine…”

Without a blink, the petite brunette continued her presentation and no one else dared interrupt. If they had, Leo would have had their card marked immediately. He could feel her presence in the room, she was as captivating as she was all those years ago. Her posture and demeanour commanded respect even if she was no better than a commoner these days. Each word that she spoke, each syllable uttered, had authority. The former Crown Prince slowly began to smirk as he recalled the many times he and the Laurentian beauty found themselves after an argument in each others arms; Leo even admitted starting the argument just to have Isabella all riled up. Watching her pace from door to door as she spoke in her trademark 4” stiletto heels made Leo feel something; it wasn’t much but something. He was once completely infatuated by this woman; now she was an enigma to him. “Read up on the next few chapters…” Isabella spoke in her thick Laurentian accent that rolled off of her tongue as the lights in the theatre switched on.

Flicking through her notes, Isabella marked where she stopped, closing up her textbooks as the students filed out of the lecture hall; she didn’t notice the figure standing opposite her until he cleared his throat, “I think I prefer how Laurentian politics is governed now, more Cordonian in nature, don’t you think?” The former Crown Princess sucked in her cheeks at the distasteful comment before raising her head. Her almond shaped eyes widened in shock as her gaze met his, “Leo… I…” she stuttered, “What are you doing here?” The tall, sandy haired Cordonian raised his brow, “Surely it should be you answering that question, rather than me…” The Laurentian beauty’s expression softened as her eyes gazed upon the man she loved all her life. His tattooed skin told a story, each etching a different verse of the last eight years. “I needed a job…” Isabella finally cracked, “I’m sorry that’s it’s here…” Leo leaned over the table that separated them both with a mischievous smirk, “It’s rude for guests to just drop in without calling first…”

Closing the gap between them. Isabella didn’t flinch at Leo’s remark, she wasn’t afraid of him; no matter what he had become or what he had done. She wasn’t blind to his newly found reputation but hoped that what they had would keep her safe at least for now. Slowly, the petite brunette closed over the books she had with a smile, placing each one on top of the other. “It’s always good to see you Leo…” the older Rys brother moved to block in the former Crown Princess with a grin, “Have dinner with me…” he darkly chuckled, “Remind you of a little Cordonian hospitality…” Isabella pursed her lips, “I have prior commitments Señor… I must decline…” The sandy haired Cordonian clicked his tongue in annoyance, “What…?” How dare she even assume it was a no. “Bella…” Leo tilted his head to the left slightly until they heard a third voice in the background, “I… I am sorry, I didn’t realise that you were busy Ms. Sánchez…” but before Isabella could reply back, two girls in matching uniforms, their hair braided the exact same way and both looking like a clone of their mother burst through the door.

“Mama!” They happily chirped, “Come on! We’re going to be late for Ice Skating!” Isabella slowly nodded with a wry smile, conscious of her audience, “Sí, mi querida… of course. I wouldn’t miss it for the world…” ‘Mama?’ Everything was going so fast for Leo to comprehend what was unfolding in front of him. One of the girls looked up at him, her eyes narrowing as if she knew him from somewhere. They were both carbon copies of their mother, except for their striking hazel eyes and their hair a shade or two lighter. Isabella held them close to her, her arms across their chests as Leo took a step back, “Prior commitment… ah I see…” his gaze returning to the little girl who stared him down, “…well darlin’ enjoy your ice skating…” he began to smile warmly, shoving is hands once again into his pockets as those sea green eyes became lost, free falling almost in dark chocolate, “…We should take a rain check Ms. Sánchez…” As Leo walked away, Natalia pulled on her mother’s arm, “Mama… who was that man?” Isabella slowly rubbed the crown of her daughter’s head for comfort, “I knew him once upon a time mi amor, nothing to worry about…”

Later that evening, Liam found Leo outside with a cigarette, cradling a double measured whiskey. “You seem to be in a better mood…” the younger Rys brother brought his own drink to his lips, waiting for some type of acknowledgement. “I saw her today…” Leo finally spoke before taking another drag. Liam nodded, patiently waiting; not knowing if Leo would even discuss the subject further. “She looked good…” he mumbled, “…had two kids hangin’ off of her… some sorry sap got caught up, y’know?” Liam raised his brow in question, “How old were they?” The former Crown Prince simply shrugged, “Old enough to form sentences? Hell, how the fuck am I meant to know?” Sighing heavily, Liam knew he had to ask, cautiously playing devil’s advocate having known Isabella - it wasn’t in her nature to play around, unlike Leo. “Is there any possibility they could be yours?” but the question aggravated Leo even further, his whole body tightened at the insinuation.

With a clenched jaw, the older Rys brother spat back, “She would have fucking told me! That’s not shit you keep to yourself, Bella told me everything!” Reaching out, Liam patted his brother’s shoulder in comfort as Leo sighed heavily, his sea green eyes finally meeting Liam’s, “They went ice skating…” he finally cracked a very small smile through that cold exterior. Memories that he had pushed to the side for years kept flooding back to him; flashbacks of when he brought the petite brunette ice skating in Lythikos, spending evenings in the ski chalets cuddled up to one another by the fire. As Leo looked toward the distance one more, Liam squeezed his hand that still rested on his brother’s shoulder, “Brother…” he chimed, “You should speak with her… I can do some digging if you wish? Give Amalas a call?” but Leo just shook his head, “No need… Isabella can tell me herself when she’s ready…” he grunted as Liam nodded in acknowledgment. It was the first time in years that Liam had saw Leo have some form of human emotion. He always wanted to be a father, but no woman ever lived up to the unknown expectation of them. A few dates here and there but nothing serious, living up to his playboy persona but underneath it all; no one came close to what he wanted because he only wanted her.

[choices-binglebonkus]

It’s pretty ironic how Pixelberry’s focus on forbidden romances has produced pretty mediocre stories, while their earlier books had some pretty damn good forbidden romances without even making it a huge deal.

[lorirwritesfanfic]

Chris Hemsworth as King Liam Rys

Disclaimers:

This character profile was created specifically to fit King Liam on Liam and Jade's Love Story universe. I unfortunately don't own the character, I don't assume to know everything about him and I have no intention to affirm this is exactly who he is and how other people should write him. I'm merely a hardcore enthusiast of this lovely character and I do my best to keep his essence while adding a few headcanons of my own;

Though I mostly write canon compliant fics in L&JLS, Lena isn't included in this character profile because I haven't played TRF and I personally don't know how relevant she would be for the series.

Name: Liam Rys

Nationality: Cordonian

Birthdate: January 10, 1990

Hometown: Cordonian capital

Current Residence: Cordonian capital / Duchy of Valtoria, Cordonia

Occupation: Politician, Head of State of Cordonia

Titles: His Royal Majesty of Cordonia, Colonel-in-Chief of Cordonian Army, Duke of Valtoria, Patron of the University of Cordonia, Patron of the National Museum of Cordonia, Patron of the National Library of Cordonia

Talents/Skills: Combat training, empathy, leadership, musicality, negotiation, perceptiviness, public speaking, self-defense, strategic thinking, survival skills, sword fighting, teaching, writing.

Parents: Constantine Rys and Eleanor Rys (both deceased)

Siblings: Leo Rys

Spouse: Jade Isabel Bourbon-Rys

Children: Elise Valentina Bourbon-Rys, Louis Philipe Bourbon-Rys, Sophie Eleanor Bourbon-Rys

Closest relatives: Regina Rys (stepmother), Ava Mei Tsui-Rys (niece), Emma Zhen Tsui-Rys (niece), Daphne Wang-Foredale (fourth cousin)

Background: Second son of King Constantine Rys and Queen Eleanor Rys, Liam is a kind-hearted, polite and sophisticated man with impressive diplomatic skills. Though he wasn't raised to be king, he was prepared from a very young age to serve the Cordonian Crown taking etiquette lessons, politics, philosophy, learning different languages (aside from English, he's fluent in Greek, Spanish, French and Italian) and even dancing and survival skills. While growing up, he was a free-spirited kid and had more opportunities to enjoy his childhood with his friends and the Walker family than his older brother.

After his mother's tragic passing, Liam became a reserved person, taking his role in the Royal family more seriously. With time, Liam grew apart from Drake (who left to the US to go to college) and joined the Royal Air Force to please his father. A few months after, the Royal family suffered an assassination attempt. Liam developed signs of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, avoiding social interactions, having trouble sleeping, being easily frightened/startled and showing some physical symptoms of panick (sweating, nausea, trembling). Leo asked Drake to return to the palace to help Liam, both encouraging the young prince to seek therapy.

As he got better, Liam enrolled in the University of Cordonia to study History and returned to the Royal Air Force. Liam had plans to follow an academic career when Leo abdicated the throne. After Liam got his major degree, he was formally introduced as the Crown Prince and officially prepared to rule the Kingdom. Though it was a drastic change of path in his life that required many sacrifices, Liam adjusted to the life of future monarch quite fast, undeniably enjoying the perks of using the many skills he had developed over the years to make a difference as a politician.

What's his family like?

Constantine wasn't a present parent, nor a father who easily showed affection towards his sons. Liam was mostly raised by his mother and a few nanies and tutors. Eleanor constantly talked about the importance of Constantine's role as king and father not just for their family but for the entire country, which is why Liam always looked up to his father.

Eleanor was a loving mother to him and his brother, but also disciplined them when necessary. She shared her love for reading, writing and History with Liam. Her passing had an enormous impact on Liam's life and personality. He still misses her dearly and visits her whenever he can. He always takes a bouquet of jasmines to her grave on Mother's day and on her birthday.

Being six years younger than Leo, the brothers always had divergences, often teasing each other, Leo and Liam played pranks that usually led to getting both of the. in trouble while growing up. Yet, Leo always knew Liam was a better fit for the Crown and has always been a protective of his baby brother, taking the blame for himself whenever Liam did something wrong, defending his brother from malicious comments and insults, helping him during his first months as Crown Prince and teaching him self-defense and mixed martial arts. Liam looks up to his brother and fully supports the lifepath and choices his older brother makes.

Regina entered the Royal family a few years after Eleanor's passing. Despite her usual commanding presence towards her stepsons, she cares for them deeply. Liam has great respect and fondness towards Regina.

Liam doesn't have a long list of relatives he's truly close to. The only exception are the Foredales, specially Lady Daphne.

Favourite childhood memory: Playing with Drake and Maxwell around the palace, trips to the Walkers ranch and summers at Applewood Manor.

Nicknames: He didn't use to have nicknames while growing up, but he loves all the petnames Jade has given him.

Astrology sign: Capricorn sun, Libra rising, Scorpio moon

Hobbies: reading, horse riding, sailing, playing guitar, singing, writing

Top 5 songs:

The Seasons, op. 37a: VI. June "Barcarolle" - Piotr Ilitch Tchaikovski

Requiem: Lacrimosa - Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

Bachianas Brasileiras n°1 - Heitor Villa Lobos

And I Love Her - Beatles

Wonderful Tonight - Eric Clapton

Favorite books:

The Metamorphosis - Franz Kafka

Dubliners - James Joyce

Hamlet - William Shakespeare

Charneca em Flor - Florbela Espanca

Jane Eyre - Emily Brontë

Favorite movies:

Star Trek (1979)

Matrix (1999)

The Lord of Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2011) [he likes all the LOTR saga, but the first one is his favorite]

Black Swan (2010)

Lion (2016)

Favorite TV shows: Liam enjoys watching anything that gets his mind out of his life. He grew up watching The X-Files and Firefly with Drake and Maxwell. A friend introduced him to Death Note during his teenhood and it blew him away. Nowadays, he likes watching Stranger Things and Arcane by himself, but he often watches comedies like Friends and Parks and Recreation with Jade.

Biggest guilty pleasure: he's getting addicted to watching videos of people building things from scratch like furniture, houses or doing crafts. In any spare time he has, he will watch people building furniture out of bamboo, small cabins in the woods and intricate craftsmanship like jewelry design, intarsia and pastry sculpture.

Sweet or savoury? Sweet.

Favorite food: Baklava, chicken tagine, apple pie, any sort of pasta.

Favourite drinks: coffee (the stronger, the better), vanilla milkshake, wine, scotch.

Most treasured possessions:

A Lion Cross Royal Crown designed for his thirtieth birthday;

A small double bladed dagger that belonged to his ancestor Queen Kenna Rys;

Photo albums with many pictures of his family and friends

A Statue of Liberty keychain given by his wife on his coronation night;

Jade cufflinks given by his wife during the trip to China;

His wedding band;

His children's baby teeth (the kids find it gross, but Jade and him proudly keep them in the family safe).

Close Friends: Drake Walker, Maxwell Beaumont, Hana Lee, Bertrand Beaumont, Leo Rys

Goals for the future: Liam has many goals for Cordonia such as bringing back economic stability to the country, hosting big events that will increase tourism, supporting projects involving environmental sustainability, arts, culture and philanthropy, etc. But in his personal life, he simply wants to travel around the world with Jade, watch his children grow and spend as much time as he can with his loved ones.

Dog lover or cat lover?

Dog lover. He loves strolling with the family corgis. But he also likes Jade's cats and encourages his kids to have any domestic animals as long as they actually take care of them.

Early bird or night owl?

Early bird. But he can't deny he loves late nights with his wife.

How does he relax after a bad day?

It depends gon how bad the day was. On a not so bad day, half an hour listening to music (he has a soothing playlist on Spotify) when he needs to slow down will do. He goes horse riding or walking when he needs to clear his head. But on really tough days, he'll go to the gym to practice any sort of martial arts. Muay Thai and Krav Maga are his favorites.

Personality: INFJ-T (Turbulent Advocate)

Idealistic and principled, people with the INFJ personality type (Advocates) aren’t content to coast through life – they want to stand up and make a difference. For these compassionate personalities, success doesn’t come from money or status but from seeking fulfillment, helping others, and being a force for good in the world.

Thoughtful and often selfless, INFJ personalities pour a great deal of energy and care into their relationships, but this doesn’t mean that they always feel appreciated in return. People with this personality type tend to slow down and really evaluate how what they do might impact others before they take action. Consequently, it can frustrate them when other people don’t recognize their good intentions. INFJs are very sensitive to criticism of any kind and can take things very personally. A few close relationships, provided that they’re genuine, can fill INFJs’ hearts to the brim.

One random headcanon: Liam joined the Cordonian Royal Air Force when he was nineteen. He was progressively rising on RAF ranks (he reached Flight Lieutenant rank) and was in his third year studying History when Leo abdicated the throne. He still pilots helicopters and small planes from time to time, but since he doesn't fly often, he has never piloted any aircraft with his children in it. He took Jade a few times when they were newlyweds (it involved a lot of begging and persuasion on her part), but there was always an aircraft pilot team on board just in case.

[angelasscribbles]

What Could Have Been: A Bad Romance One-Shot

Series: What If but more specifically Maximum Damage (the alternate ending)

Original Series: Bad Romance

Fandom: The Royal Romance/The Royal Heir

Pairing for this chapter: Liam x Max (now), Liam x Riley (past), Riley x Max (past)

Rating: MA

Warnings for this chapter: character death mentioned.

Word Count:  812

A/N: This was written in response to an ask from @kyra75 for the angstgiving event hosted by @choicesprompts. The request was for the prompt "What could have been" and was specifically for the Bad Romance gang. Since BR had a happily ever after, I couldn't come up with a good, angsty what could have been until the alternate ending popped into my head. Once it did, this just suddenly existed in my head and I had to write it.

My other stuff: Master List.

The crown princess of Cordonia was getting married to the love of her life. It was a watershed moment in her life. All of Cordonia would be watching as she walked down the aisle.

The king was sure that there had never been a prouder father in the history of the world. His little princess was all grown up. She was happy. She was radiant. She looked just like her mother.

He turned his head to observe his queen. The years hadn’t dimmed her beauty one bit. She was as beautiful as the day he’d first lain eyes on her in that bar in New York.

Liam had been born into wealth, and raised to rule, but the greatest privilege of his life had been raising their daughter. It didn’t matter that biologically speaking; she was Drake’s daughter. Her DNA didn’t matter.

Drake. The best friend he’d ever had. His childhood companion. His partner in crime. His closest confidant. His brother.

“Don’t get too sentimental. You promised her you wouldn’t cry.” Drake smiled at him from the seat on the other side of Riley.

“How can I help it?” Liam responded as tears slipped down his cheek. “You’re here. You’re both here for her big day.”

“Liam.” Max’s voice intruded on the scene.

Not yet, Max. Just a few more moments.

Riley leaned over and touched his hand. “She’s so lucky to have you. You’ve done a wonderful job. You and Max both. Thank you.”

“Liam. Liam.”

Not yet, Max!

But it was too late. They were already fading.

“Wait! Don’t go!”

“Liam, come on, it’s time to get up.” Max shook him gently by the shoulders. “We don’t want to be late for the wedding.”

Liam blinked against the onslaught of brightness flooding into the royal suite. “Max?”

“Yeah, who else would it be? Are you okay? You were crying in your sleep.”

“I was dreaming, but Max, it seemed so real! I was at the wedding, and Riley was with me! Drake too!”

“Oh, babe.” Max climbed back into the bed and wrapped Liam in his arms and tears sprang into his own eyes. “I miss them too.”

Twenty six years later and he still blamed himself. If only he hadn’t dropped the damn cell phone that day. If only he’d pulled over to the side of the road before trying to call 911. If he’d done that, then Riley and Drake would both still be here. Hope would have her biological parents. Liam would have his queen. He would have his everything.

But that’s not what happened and now all they could do was dream about what could have been.

Liam looked up into his husband’s eyes. “It wasn’t your fault. It was a tragic accident.”

Max smiled through his tears. Of course Liam knew exactly what he was thinking. Liam was the only reason he was alive. Liam had willed him to live and pushed him to walk again.

Getting out of that wheelchair had been the hardest thing he’d ever done. Not because of the grueling months of physical therapy, but because he had felt like he deserved to be there. He would never understand why he had Liam’s love and forgiveness when he knew he didn’t deserve it, but he was grateful for it. And he was grateful for the daughter they shared. The one whose heart stopping smile was the spitting image of the woman they had both lost.

“I know,” Max lied. Today was a happy day, not a day to wallow in recriminations. “We both promised Hope that we wouldn’t cry today.”

Liam laughed, a bit of sunshine returning to his life. Max had a way of doing that. “We all knew that was a lie when we said it.”

“Oh, a bald faced lie! She’s our baby girl. Of fucking course we’re going to cry!”

Liam laughed again as the last vestiges of the dream wisped away.

Riley and Drake would be there in spirit. Hope had left two reserved seats empty to represent them.

Hope was what they had left of their lost loved ones. And she had brought exactly that into their lives. Hope was what they had clung to in those early days of grief. She had brought sunshine and joy, laughter, and beauty back into the world.

Drake had certainly named her appropriately all those years ago.

Four hours later, they watched her say I do. They both cried copious amounts, but they were happy tears.

And while they both wished that Riley and Drake were there with them, they were thankful to have each other.

The king glanced at the two empty seats. He swore he could feel them there. Maybe, somehow, in some other existence, they were.

Deep in his heart, Liam believed that somewhere out there, in an alternate universe, what could have been, was.

[tessa-liam]

W.I.P. Wednesday

for King Liam Appreciation Week, November 17 - 21

and Marabelle Series, Chapter 20

...here is a sneak peak of the commission I won from @indiacater!🥹 Thank you, again, ...so much! for this gift!😍❣️🌹

I was going to wait until November to share this....but I can't wait an entire month to share ... here is a snippet! 🤷‍♀️ 😉

The Royal Romance, King Liam Rys x Sophie Taylor

@pilitella, you are such a gifted artist!✨️

Thank you for bringing my fantasy 'to life'....this is an incredible gift!🌹

😁the full reveal in November!

[mysticalfangirl]

A Cordonian Christmas in New York

Summary - Liam and Riley have planned a family trip to New York City on Christmas as the city brings special memories for the couple. They want to share with their little ones the magic of the season and their first Christmas together as a family of four.

Main pairing - Liam x Mc

Rating - General

Category - Fluff

No of words - 960

Warning - none

*Most of the characters belong to pixelberry

The gentle rumble of the private jet filled the cabin as it swooped over the Atlantic Ocean. Inside, the royal family of Cordonia was finally experiencing something they hadn't had in years: a quiet moment of togetherness.

King Liam of Cordonia sat on the plush leather seat, holding his daughter, Ella, whose sleepy head rested against his shoulder. Across from him, Queen Riley bounced their son, Elias, on her lap, his bright blue eyes wide as he tried to squirm free, captivated by the sights of the cabin.

"This might be the first time I regret choosing a plane over a royal carriage," Liam teased, his voice soft as he brushed a curl from Ella's forehead.

Riley laughed. "Trust me, this is better. I don't think a horse-drawn carriage could make it across the Atlantic. Besides, the kids are loving the adventure."

Liam grinned, glancing fondly at their twins. “True. And I’m glad we’re doing this. Our first Christmas as a family of four deserves something special. A proper adventure.”

The decision to spend Christmas in New York had been spontaneous—a way to give their children a taste of Riley's home country and enjoy a little secrecy, something that Cordonia rarely offered. Liam had always been curious about New York at Christmas, and Riley had eagerly embraced the idea of showing him her city all dressed up in holiday cheer.

Are you ready to experience the chaos of New York during Christmas?" Riley teased, nudging him with her elbow.

Liam smirked. "After hosting countless royal galas, negotiating trade deals, and chasing down two very mobile toddlers, I think I'm well-prepared.

As the plane descended to land at JFK, the twins began to stir awake. Ella blinked sleepily; her golden curls were tumbling over her little face much like Liam's. Meanwhile Elias clapped his hands and looked excited about their impending landing.

"Here comes New York," whispered Riley excitedly as she kissed his forehead.

---

The moment they stepped outside, Riley's heart swelled. New York was alive with holiday magic—twinkling lights lined the streets, snow flurries danced in the air, and the hum of traffic mixed with carolers singing on every other corner. Liam looked awestruck, his hand gripping Riley's tightly as they stood bundled up in their coats, the twins nestled in their arms.

“This is incredible,” Liam murmured, his breath fogging in the cold air.

“Told you,” Riley replied, grinning. “You’re going to love it.”

They made their way to Rockefeller Center, where the giant Christmas tree towered over a bustling ice rink. Leo and Ella squirmed excitedly in their parents’ arms, their little faces lit with joy as they took in the twinkling lights and festive decorations.

"Can we take them skating?" Liam asked, his boyish grin making Riley's heart flutter.

"Are you sure you can handle toddlers on ice?" Riley teased.

"Challenge accepted."

And so, half an hour later, Liam and Riley found themselves on the rink, both grinning, skating slowly with their load, Leo squealing in ecstasy as he clutched at Riley's scarf, while Ella nestled into Liam's chest, giggling at every time he lost his balance and regained it.

"You know," Liam said, his voice low as they skated side by side, "this might be one of the happiest moments of my life."

Riley smiled up at him, her cheeks flushed. "Mine too. The four of us… this is what Christmas should feel like."

The next day was clear blue skies and fresh powdery snow. The day took them to Central Park, where the twins dressed in tiny snowsuits that made them resemble small marshmallows.

Ella was in the snow within minutes, giggling as Liam helped her make her first snow angel. Riley was sitting on a bench, watching Elias as he patted the small snowman she helped him make.

Liam turned to wave at Riley, and his smile shone so bright. "Do you think they're having fun?"

"They're definitely having fun," Riley said with a grin as she snapped a photo of the twins.

The next stop was to a department store to visit Santa Claus. Riley had been excited to share this tradition with her children, but she couldn't help but laugh when Elias stared at Santa suspiciously, his tiny brow furrowed.

"I think Leo's not convinced this guy is the real deal," Liam said, holding back a chuckle.

On the other hand, Ella cooed happily at Santa as she tugged at his fluffy white beard; the photographer caught the photo op.

---

On Christmas morning the family assembled in the living room of their rented townhouse where the fireplace crackled warmly. A small tree sat in the corner nicely decorated, with a few little presents scattered around it.

Liam sat cross-legged on the floor, Ella perched in his lap as he helped her tear the wrapping paper off a soft stuffed bunny. Riley sat beside them with Elias, who squealed in excitement as he uncovered a toy train.

"Look at their faces," Riley whispered, smiling as she watched the twins delight in their gifts.

Liam's eyes softened as he looked at his wife. "This is perfect, Riley. A small, quiet Christmas. Just us."

She leaned her head on his shoulder, sighing contentedly. "I couldn't agree more."

As the morning light streamed through the windows and laughter echoed through the room, Liam reached for Riley's hand.

"Merry Christmas, my love," he said softly.

"Merry Christmas, Liam," Riley said smiling, her heart full.

The twins crawled into their laps, giggling happily, as the family sank into a blissful, peaceful moment-one they'd never forget. In this little corner of New York, the king and queen and their two little subjects found the ultimate gift: love, laughter, and the pure bliss of togetherness.

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