#did i just take an ask about madeleine and talk about very little but hana instead? yes. yes i did

[lizzybeth1986]

What are your overall thoughts on Madeleine as a character including what transpired between her and Hana? I've felt iffy about her, but I'm not sure how to phrase that. I think you can better articulate and explain than I could 😅

Not to boast…but you’ve come to the right person (besides @callmetippytumbles who has made excellent points time and again about how the writing centers Madeleine in ways that they should have been centering Hana). I have written A LOT about that issue especially. Here are some of my meta on that if you’re interested:

Brushed Under the Carpet: Madeleine as an Alternate LI (this was written after TRR Book 3 Chapter 9, where they were subtly hinting at making them a ship).

QT on Book 3 Chapter 16 (Tbh thankfully the bit I was predicting here - Madeleine getting the coming out story that should have been Hana’s - wound up not happening, though part of it could have been from them having to scrap the entire idea after the backlash).

How Do You Fix Hana’s Characterization in TRR? (this essay listed a whole set of changes both to help strengthen Hana’s storyline and to give her the attention and validation she deserved but didn’t get in the actual story)

This replay to an ask posted after 3 of the 4 writers on the team claimed Hana was the kind of person they would marry.

A lot of this illustrates my problems with Madeleine on a level of characterization (and Tippy covers the aspects that deal not with Hana, but with Madeleine's half-baked redemption arc and how the narrative tries really hard to convince us that she does her job well, even when she isn’t doing it properly).

With regards to Madeleine herself, I feel like they started out fully intending that the reader hate her and view her as a rival, before turning the tables and establishing her as “innocent” of the conspiracy (though still extremely unlikeable). In narrative structure, the bachelorette chapter had a lot of striking similarities to the Lythikos chapter where you found out about Olivia’s painful childhood before she mocked Drake about his missing sister. I feel like the aim was to make us see Madeleine in a different light, while still remembering why we dislike her.

Somewhere along the line (with Hana’s chocolate scene) they went too far, and Madeleine went from unlikeable to completely repulsive. After that, the team attempted to completely backtrack, by cramming in a sympathy arc for her and after the “hazing process” excuse, what she did to Hana especially was never addressed again. Suddenly she was the patriot who would sacrifice her life and happiness for Cordonia, a figure to be admired and pitied. A woman who was immensely talented and did her job well [even when she actually didn’t]). Most of her characterization, really, consists of retconning.

But I have no interest in Madeleine, or her characterization. I just don’t. No, what I’m going to touch upon today is narrative treatment.

–

Rival figures are important in a story. They’re a foil to the main character: sometimes they exist simply to make the MC look better (ew), sometimes they’re there to show the MC what the larger society in their world is like, and what challenges they may face, and sometimes they’re an unexpected ally after the MC figures out the problem goes way deeper than the rivalry with them. So if you have a rival who behaves badly, treats the people around her badly? That in itself is not really a bad thing.

It makes me hurt for the characters at the receiving end, but as long as long as the narrative validates their experience on its own initiative, and allows them space, I will be fine. If I’m shown bullying and abuse in a narrative towards a character, I’m going to want to see the person hurting from this:

1. have support. Immense support

2. have a friend circle that will protect them and put them first

3. have opportunities to talk about what this is doing to them

4. have opportunities to push back against the bully

Personally the bully’s journey or whatever is of no importance to me. I simply don’t care. As much as possible I would not care about what grand monumental realizations they get behind the scenes, or what their rotten-egg-smelling guilt looks like. What matters to me is the person bullied. I need to see them win. I need to see them thrive. I need to see them receive support and validation.

One example I can give in terms of that being done well, is Penelope. Penelope is treated like a servant by Madeleine, called names, forever reminded she is good-for-nothing and useless and can’t do anything right. The bullying is constant and puts an already anxiety-ridden Penelope under additional pressure, to the point that when we meet her at Portavira in Book 3 she is VERY reluctant to return to court, and panics when certain things remind her of Madeleine’s behaviour. You have to coddle and cajole her with promises that Madeleine would never be able to do anything to her, and that she can bring her Emotional Support Animals with her to court. If we choose not to address her concerns, our friends will do it on our behalf. Drake Trauma-Minimizing Walker himself, is shown reassuring her the moment they meet in Portavira:

So it is very possible, even if the rival/bitchy character is expected to not feel remorse, and still retains a huge portion of her bitchiness, that we can still get a satisfying arc where the person in pain has support and care, and can thrive.

In Penelope’s case, perhaps the only downside may be that, while the narrative is clear about Madeleine’s bullying and its impact on Penelope, it still keeps Madeleine comfortably away from this narrative so she doesn’t even have to engage with it. She herself doesn’t exactly face consequences. The truth doesn’t even touch her.

But we don’t feel the pinch of this, so much with Penelope… precisely because PENELOPE is validated, given support and is given the space to completely refuse to even go with them if the MC doesn’t make great efforts to support and be nice to her (this, even though she has herself harmed us). She is allowed to get upset if we even question her on not following the dress code of our bachelorette, because it reminds her of Madeleine’s. She is even “rewarded” with a guy, no matter which playthrough.

And not every character is going to be a Penelope who will require that level of coddling from other people. So it’s not always about the MC and others needing to constantly protect and reassure such people. Sometimes it’s just simply about whether said character is allowed to push back against the bully. Hana gets a small measure of this when she’s allowed (but only on one occasion, that too a 30 diamond scene that wasn’t even coded properly later) to tell Olivia exactly what she thinks of her (and Olivia is allowed to say shit about her even after that, without Hana ever being allowed the same space again).

Now the thing with Hana (with regards to Madeleine) is…that they could have easily given her space to push back. Easily given the MC opportunities to protect her. Easily ensured that Hana didn’t have to engage with Madeleine if she didn’t want to. Have her whack friends fucking remember what she was put through at least!!!

Let’s go through how that could have been done one by one:

Pushing Back: One of the most bizarre choices the TRR team made was the give the scene about Liam telling Hana he would get her back to court (ergo, that Hana returned through Liam’s help, not Madeleine as the latter kept claiming) to Drake! He gets to narrate this story to the MC, but Hana herself is never allowed to acknowledge the fact or even talk about it. If she were, she would have at least (at the very least!!!) been given chances to hint at Madeleine twisting the truth, implied as much to Madeleine or to the MC, pushed back in her own unique way. The narrative not only pushes the truth of her return in DRAKE’S scene…it also never gives HER the opportunity to do anything actively against Madeleine’s very obvious twisting of the truth. Just so that Madeleine would continue to have way more power over Hana throughout. The bullying occurs much before the incident in Italy, but Hana herself is expected to stay silent.

Support: Now it’s not as if Penelope gets to push back on her own to Madeleine during this time either (except for a few comments here and there). But Penelope does get plenty of support and eventually protection. Does this apply to Hana as well?

Technically, you could view the fondue party scene that took place after the “chocolate allergy” incident as “support” - but at best it’s very weak “support”, and at its worst it really just a scene revolves around all the other characters (especially around gaining Olivia’s friendship), with a hurt, frightened Hana hovering in the background of the scene.

The MC has the option (option!!) to “call Madeleine out” on the events of the previous night when they’re in Paris, but it mostly results in Madeleine pretending it was a test of some sort (which the MC never bothers to contradict even though she knows better). The best case scenario is, well, that…and the worst case scenario is that Hana never really finds out even that, up until the end.

Speaking Out and Validation: Not only does the narrative not address the bullying after it has happened (until the very end of the series), it uses Hana - the woman who was harmed - to minimize its impact as well. On the one occasion you actually do get to talk to her about the night of Madeleine’s bachelorette party, they make Hana say (if you state that you don’t remember anything from that night), that "the tequila brought out Kiara's mean side, and Madeleine's fun side". Madeleine’s “fun side”, presumably, involves her laughing over targeting, torturing and breaking the vulnerable women in her court I suppose. (also, way to do Kiara dirty while forgetting what Madeleine did, PB!)

Further ahead, the MC and her friends promptly forget about this - Hana is expected to help the MC extract important information from her without even bothering to find out if she is comfortable or not, for instance. The forgetfulness gets to the point where, in the epilogue, (when Madeleine repeats to Hana what she’d told the MC back then) the MC acts like it is the first time she is hearing about Madeleine’s intentions to break Hana.

So forget about getting validation, for a large chunk of the narrative Hana wasn’t even allowed to view her own experience with bullying as painful. And if anything, her friend circle didn’t mind putting her needs and comfort last when it suited them.

The biggest problem about the storyline that involves Hana and Madeleine is the question of who should be getting more space and development, and who actually does. The time and energy spent on Hana navigating a court like this which such threats over her head…is spent instead on literally everything else. The time that could have been spent working on Hana’s background and childhood history…was spent to build Madeleine’s redemption arc instead (ironically, Adelaide starts feeding us with that sympathy arc in Shanghai, Hana’s home).

Effort was spent on extolling Madeleine efficiency and great work, even though there was very little of it to be seen. Effort was spent on making Madeleine look patriotic and not power-hungry, in making it clear to us that her father’s rejections left an impact on her. Even the story involving her attraction to Hana revolved more around HER, not around the woman she hurt. Was the same effort put into exploring Hana’s own struggle in court? In how she feels when people hurt her? In whether she is comfortable doing certain things? I think we all know the answer to that.

The key to why I hate Madeleine’s story so much isn’t that she’s a horrible person. You can be a horrible person and still have a compelling story. You can be a horrible person, and unapologetic about it, but still have the narrative validate what the people you had harmed went through.

It’s that the narrative and team knows and acknowledges her toxic behaviour, but only for a character that they like. They conveniently decided to cherry pick who would be comforted and given reassurance, and who would be forced to praise her bully for her ‘patriotism’. I should have been spending way less time on Madeleine’s redemption and coddling Penelope, and more time on making Hana feel safe in a largely alien place where she has no one but us - and where she is staying only for our protection. My problem is that they didn’t consider Hana’s pain important enough to even address, much less validate.

[walkerismychoice]

Queen of My Heart - Chapter 36

Book: The Royal Romance

Pairing: Drake X MC, Liam X Olivia, Hana X OC Lydia

Rating: NSFW (I didn’t intend it but it just happened

Summary: Liam finally clears the air with Constantine, and we go to the Fire and Ice Ball at Lythikos, the final social season even before Liam chooses his future Queen.

A/N: Umm, I don’t even want to know how many years it’s been since I updated, but it is with the encouragement of you readers that I was compelled to finish.  My tag list is probably way outdated and I’m sure I’ve missed some poeple who’ve asked to be tagged along the way. Feel free to let me know either way if you want to be tagged or removed from the list.

Tag List: @khakie4 @dreadpirateemma @ritachacha @blackcoffee85 @choices-fanatic @boneandfur @butindeed @simplyaiden-blog @bobasheebaby @traeumerinsworld @theroyalweisme @umccall71 @lizeboredom @debramcg1106 @enmchoices @jadedpixiescribbles @withice @viktoriapetit @mfackenthal @drakesfiance @drakelover78 @speedyoperarascalparty @silviasutton1989 @krisnicjack @devineinterventions2 @choiceswreckedme @notoriouscs @blackcatkita @hamalu @akrenich @drakewalkerfantasy @jamielea81 @andy-loves-corgis @jlouise88 @jovialyouthmusic @sleepwalkingelite @i-miss-trr @dragonball-luver @gkittylove99 @lovingchoices14

Word Count: 2861

Queen of My Heart Chapter Index

“Hello, Father.” Liam greeted Constantine as he walked into the hospital room. He noted the King's color was back to normal and he seemed in good spirits.

"My son, I knew you'd come!" Constantine reached towards Liam with arms outstretched.

Liam just shook his head and held up a hand to stop him. "This is not that kind of visit. I'm here because I know... I know everything."

"What-" Constantine choked out before a coughing fit ensued.

Liam fought the instinctual urge to comfort his father. "Enough with the theatrics. I know about Madeleine...about you threatening the show if they didn't help her win...as if me choosing the woman I plan to spend my life with is some political game to be won."

 "How did you find out? I gave strict orders that my demands were confidential."

Liam scoffed. "Seriously? I just told you I found out you tried to have the producers manipulate me into marrying a woman I don't love, and that's all you had to say for yourself?"

"You have to understand," Constantine pleaded. "Madeleine is what's best for Cordonia, and what's best for Cordonia is what's best for you."

"Unbelievable!" Liam felt the anger rising in his chest like a simmering pot ready to boil over. "You may have told yourself that to feel better about choosing your commitments to Cordonia over happiness, love, family... Maybe you’ve lied to yourself for so long you’ve actually started to believe it, but it's one hundred percent bullshit. I know I'll be a more effective leader if I get to choose the woman I want by my side, and that woman is Olivia."

Constantine's jaw dropped and there was a long pause before he gained his composure to protest. "Absolutely not. You know her family's history. I'd rather have you on the same page as me, but I am still King-"

"Save your breath," Liam shut him down. "You should know that your perfect candidate Madeleine has displayed some behavior quite unbecoming of a future queen, and it is all on film. I know Cordonians are generally flexible with their views on monogamy, but I don't think Madeleine sleeping with the host of the show while she's trying to compete for my affection will look good in anyone's eyes. She has been eliminated from the show and is no longer in the running. That leaves only Riley aside from Olivia, and I know you know what's going on there."

Constantine's face fell momentarily in resignation, but then he perked back up again. "Well, then you can bring back someone else. Kiara is quite lovely and is fit to play the part."

"Enough!" Liam practically shouted much too loud for the thin hospital walls. "Not that I owe you an explanation, but Olivia is stronger, smarter, and more capable of ruling a country than anyone you could hope to pair with me. You seem to forget that I am the son who stuck by you and am now the rightful and only heir to the throne. Your reign is coming to an end, and you have no choice but to accept my decision."

Unexpectedly, Constantine's demeanor changed, a sly grin creeping across his face. "My boy, I've always been a bit worried you were too soft to be king. However, seeing you stand up for yourself today gives me hope. I still don't approve of your choice, but I will no longer stand in your way."

Liam shook his head and let out an incredulous laugh, reeling from Constantine’s sudden change of course. "Bastien will take you back to the palace. We can talk more when I know it's not just the medicine that's gotten to your head."

-----

“Well, this place certainly explains a lot about Olivia.” Riley mused aloud as she scanned the ballroom. Ornate floor to ceiling windows with deep alcoves were surrounded by walls with intricate, gilded accents leading up to a hand-painted ceiling measuring at least 3 stories high. The grandeur of the space was both intimidating and beautiful at the same time, much like its owner.

“Has she shown you all the toys in her armory yet? That too says a lot about Olivia," Drake chuckled at his own joke.

Riley laughed along. “No, but she does constantly remind me she keeps a dagger hidden under her skirt. Are you sure Liam knows what he’s in for?”

"Heh. Better him than me, that's for sure. Liam's warm and fuzzy exterior can make him seem like a pushover, but he can hold his own when it matters. Olivia needs someone who can roll with her mood swings but still call her on her bullshit when needed."

"You know, I admit I had a little trouble wrapping my brain around Liam choosing Olivia, but when you put it that way, it makes sense. Now I suppose I need to find Kat so I can figure out if I need to dance with Liam or something. Ugh, I cannot wait until all these balls are over.

Drake almost doubled over laughing. "Oh, Bennett, I hate to break it to you, but this shit never ends. Next will be the coronation, then some charity gala, Liam's wedding...the list goes on. Welcome to your life as a noble woman."

Riley stared ahead blankly as a giant wave of realization washed over her. It was all so much, so fast. She'd never had time to think past the next day to consider this was all ending soon, and then what? Did she stay with her new-found family and live this life that was still foreign to her in so many ways? What about her life in New York? Sure, she didn't have much going on at the moment, but she still had her aunt Susan and best friend Sarah along with some good friends at work like Daniel. Becoming a therapist was still one of her goals, at least it was until the day she left for Cordonia. Now everything was so unclear, and she could hardly breathe.

Drake must have noticed her face looking some kind of way because he placed a hand on the small of her back and guided her to an open doorway to a nearby balcony. "Why don't we get you some air before you go off and do your thing for the show?"

Once outside and around the corner of the wraparound balcony, Drake pulled Riley into his chest, holding her securely, and she was almost instantly calmed. All the what-ifs fell away, and it was just them. All she needed was the be with him, wherever that turned out to be, and everything else would fall into place.

But what if Drake didn't quite feel the same? They'd been talking as if they'd be together indefinitely, but in reality, they'd only known each other two months. The anxious fluttering in her chest started up again.

Drake pulled back to look her in the eyes. "Riley, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to upset you. You know, we're both still half American. We can move back to the states....or uh, I mean you can move back to the states if that's what you want." His eyes darted bashfully to the ground.

Riley's face lit up, the nervous thumping in her chest giving way to excited butterflies. "I like the sound of 'we' better if that's what you really meant. You'd really move back to the U.S. with me? I mean I've hardly had the chance to think about what I want, so that may be irrelevant, but you seriously see a future with me?"

"I do." Drake smiled earnestly. "I'm sure anyone who knows me will think I've gone mad, but whether it means being in New York City and putting up with cramped apartments and way too many people, living a quieter, simple life in Texas, or stealing moments away at dreadful Cordonian events such as this, I know we can make our own happiness...together."

"Wow, the Drake Walker I met two months ago would not believe what's coming out of your mouth right now." Riley touched the back of her hand to Drake's forehead in jest. "Are you sure you aren't running a fever?"

"Haha, very funny." Drake swiftly but gently pushed Riley back again the stone wall. "I'm not feeling ill, but I know how to make your temperature rise.

"You pushing me against duchy walls is becoming a thing, huh? Must have really enjoyed the almost public sex last time."

"Possibly," Drake teased as he slipped his hand through the side-slit in her icy-blue gown, gently gliding his fingers up her thigh. Riley braced herself as Drake neared the place she wanted him the most. Goosebumps gave way to a burning need before she remembered where they were.

"Wait." She pushed a hand against his chest. "We're not exactly alone here, and we've gone to such lengths to keep this under wraps. Someone could walk out here at any moment."

Drake shrugged. "I know it may be a bit reckless, but honestly at this point, I don't care. I just want you."

Riley opened her mouth to protest but nothing came out before Drake swooped in for a searing kiss. She instantly melted into him, Drake continuing his earlier action and deftly plunging two fingers inside her, his eyes widening slightly in surprise when he noticed there was no fabric barrier to work around. A strangled moan escaped Riley's throat as he stroked the exact spot he knew always left her at his mercy.

Drake pulled back with a satisfied grin. "Do you want me to stop? Just say the word and we'll go back in right now."

Instead of answering, Riley yanked him by the collar and crushed her lips to his. Drake responded by hoisting her up and over to the balcony. He perched her atop the railing, one hand grasped firmly around her waist and the other making quick work of undoing his pants.

Teetering on the narrow ledge two stories high, Riley clamped her hand tightly to the railing on either side of her and Drake noticed. "I've got you Bennett, no need to worry. I won't let anything happen to you. I'm just doing my job after all," he said with a smirk.

She smiled at his reference to what was now an inside joke between them. But all joking aside, he always made her feel safe. She released her grip, flinging her arms around his neck and her legs around his waist.

Drake eased his cock free and Riley could tell how hard he was just by sight, the skin stretched taught from his perfect proportion of thickness and length. He lifted her dress and she couldn't wait any longer. She pulled him in and he took the invitation to thrust inside her. Even as wet was she was, his size created just the right amount of fullness and friction to take her breath away.

Riley moaned and gasped with each thrust, which in turn seemed to turn Drake on even more. The thrill of being up so high with nothing but him to hold her only added to her excitement and when he began rubbing circles over her clit with his thumb that was all it took to push her figuratively over the edge. She tightened around him everywhere, her orgasm eliciting immense heat and pleasure with every pulse, resulting in Drake picking up his pace until his own release followed shortly thereafter.

Drake carefully set Riley down before putting himself back together. "I'm almost a little disappointed we didn't nearly get caught this time."

"If I don't get back in there immediately, that's still a possibility." Riley had no idea how much time had passed but it was probably more than she thought. "Fuck, Kat is going to be pissed." Riley straightened her skirt and started towards the ballroom door.

"Wait!" Drake puller her in for a quick kiss. "I love you. Just so you don't forget."

Riley rolled her eyes but smiled. "You know you have nothing to worry about. If Liam's charms haven't wooed me yet, I think you’re safe. But I love you too. Now go do your job." She smacked him on the ass before hustling back to the ballroom, Drake following shortly thereafter.

As expected, Kat was frantic when Riley found her. “Where the fuck were you? You were supposed to meet up with me twenty minutes ago?”

Overhearing Riley’s scolding, Olivia smugly sidled up next to them. “I mean, I didn’t mind getting extra time with Liam, but you know Jo and Kat and there ‘ratings’, Olivia said while gesturing with air quotes. She scanned Riley from head to toe and then glanced over to Drake on the perimeter. “Ugh, I can tell you exactly what, or rather who she was doing. Gross. I guess that just makes my position more secure, but really, couldn’t you have waited until after my ball to fuck him?”

Riley sheepishly smoothed her hair and adjusted her dress. “I just needed some air, that’s all. I was having a moment.”

Olivia scoffed and rolled her eyes. “Whatever you want to call it. Although I still cannot fathom why you chose Drake, I suppose I should be a little easier on you for eliminating yourself from the competition and allowing Liam to break free of his distraction of the shiny new object.”

“Aww, Olivia, that’s so sweet. Next thing you know we’ll be best friends,” Riley replied sarcastically.

 “I don’t know about friends...but I do dislike you less than the rest of them.” Olivia tried and failed to hold back a smile.

“I’ll take it,” Riley said with a laugh before turning to Jo. “Okay, now tell me where I need to be.”

Jo set Riley up with Liam on the dance floor. It still wasn’t hard to pretend to be into Liam because it wasn’t all pretend, but there was no lingering pining between them.

“Well, I spoke to my father this morning.” Liam spun Riley around and brought her back to face him.

“Finally!” Riley exclaimed. “How did that go?”

“I’m still trying to wrap my head around it to be completely honest, but it went surprisingly well. I told him I knew everything, and he no longer had a say in my decision. He tried to argue with me at first, but somehow something I said made him respect me. He still may not agree with my choice, but I think this is finally all over! I am free to choose who I want without any threat or blackmail hanging over my head.

Riley pulled Liam in and hugged him tightly. “That’s amazing! I’m so happy for you, and for all of us.” The weight on Riley’s shoulders was suddenly ten times lighter. She hadn’t let herself think too deeply about how much was at stake, but now that the air was clear, she realized how stressed she had been. “Now all that’s left is for you to tear my heart to pieces on national television, and you get your fairy tale ending.”

Liam chuckled. “I’ll try to let you down easy.”

-----

Drake stood in his usual position off the side of the dance floor. This may not be the last of these events he’d have to endure, but at least it should be the last time he’d have to stand on the sidelines watching Riley dance with someone else. He was secure in what they had, but it still didn’t stop that twinge of jealously seeing her and Liam together talking, touching, and having fun. But it wasn’t a bad thing that his best friend and girlfriend get along so well. Girlfriend...that’s the first time he’d used that term for anyone he’d “dated”, even if only in his head. It was hard to believe everything was falling into place.

Drake took his eyes off Riley to scan the perimeter. What he saw didn’t immediately register as out of the ordinary, but then he quickly recalled this person walking towards the dance floor wasn’t supposed to be there.

“Bastien, check out three o’clock.” Drake altered Bastien via his radio earpiece. “How did she get in here without security clearance?”

“I don’t know.” Bastien replied. “I’ll check with the other guys to see who let her in. Keep an eye on her.”

Drake watched in concern as Madeleine marched towards the dance floor. She’d been banned from the rest of filmed events after her stunt. Not wanting to let her cause a scene, Drake was about to stop her from getting any closer, when she pulled out an unmistakable object. She had a gun and it was pointed right at Riley and Liam.

Before Drake could alert the rest of the team, people started to scatter. He heard a familiar click and knew he had to disarm Madeleine immediately, but it was too late. A shot went off and he didn’t hesitate. Drake dove between the bullet and his two best friends on the dance floor, and that would be the last thing he remembered before he hit the floor.

[sfb123]

The Final Goodbye - Chapter 3

Book: The Royal Romance, Book 2

Pairing: Liam x Riley

All characters belong to Pixelberry.

Description: In a slight canon divergence from book 2, Riley reaches her breaking point with the engagement tour and decides to restart her life when the court gets to NYC. Can the rest of the group clear her name, and convince her to come back before it’s too late?

Catch Up Here

Rating: PG (I think there are a few swear words in there, very angsty, but otherwise pretty mild)

Word Count: 1,240

A/N: Again, I’m so grateful to all of you for reading this little series I threw together out of nowhere. After this, we’ve got one chapter left. I teased a side one shot of Liam confronting Madeleine, and that’s coming, I promise. I’m hoping to release it this week. Huge thank you to my fandom soulmate @jessiembruno for always taking the time to help me work through this stuff. You are a godsend, and I am forever grateful. 

Tags: Listed below. If you’d like to be added or removed, just let me know!

“Are you sure you don’t want to come and just hang out? I hate leaving you alone like this.”

“Daniel, I love you. Thank you. But I’m good. I’ve been around people for months, I just need to be alone and get my head right.” She wrapped her arms around him and pulled him into a tight hug. “Besides, the way I bailed on that place with literally zero notice, I’m surprised my face isn’t up on the door with one of those Ghostbusters logo thingies through it.”

Daniel and Riley said their goodbyes. Once he turned the corner and was out of sight, Riley closed and locked the door and made herself comfortable on the couch. She spent the afternoon watching talk shows, and all of those small claims court shows that she had missed so much while she was away. Her problems didn’t seem quite so bad when she watched a woman be told all 7 men she brought with her that day were ‘not the father’.

When the buzzer rang, Riley didn’t think twice and instantly let them in, assuming it was the food she had been waiting for. She got to the door just as the visitor began knocking. Riley’s eyes widened as they met Bertrand’s. Of all of the people she expected to come looking for her, he was definitely at the bottom of the list. “Bertrand… What are you? How did you?” 

“Lady Riley, I believe I deserve a bit more credit. You are the one who ran away to your last known address. Even Maxwell would have been able to figure that out.”

Still flustered, Riley stepped aside and signaled for Bertrand to enter. “You can just call me Riley. I’m done with court, I’m not a lady anymore.” She sat on the couch, and Bertrand sat next to her. “Why did you come here, Bertrand?”

He ignored her question, he found it absurd that she felt the need to ask why he was there. It wasn’t as if he were just in the neighborhood and decided to drop in. “What do you mean you are done with court? We still have a few days left on the tour and then when we get back…”

“Bertrand, you’re a smart man. How are you not getting this? I’m out, I’m done. I never belonged there, and I never will.” Riley took a couple of deep breaths to try to quell her emotions before continuing. “We’re never going to find Tariq, and I can’t just go back to a country where I’m constantly being looked down on, just so I can watch the man I love marry another woman.” She looked down at her hands, which she was wringing in her lap.

“Riley, we found him,” Riley froze, her eyes locked on Bertrand. “Maxwell, Drake, and Hana are in California right now to get him, and have him make a statement. This will likely all be over by the end of the day.”

For a brief moment, Riley got her hopes up, perhaps it wasn’t over. She and Liam could have a real chance at happiness. She shook off the optimism, and quickly jumped back into reality. “That’s great, I really appreciate that they would go through all of that trouble for me, but how do we know they can convince him to speak out? He ran away after everything happened, he was obviously trying to get away from this.” She got up and began pacing the room. “And even if he does make a statement, that’s it? The whole country will just say ‘oh hey, our bad, you aren’t a slut who two-timed our king, all is forgiven’?”

Bertrand approached Riley, placing his hands on her shoulders to keep her still. “He will give a statement. Those three are nothing if not persuasive. And once that happens, Liam will make his own statement to the people. They will see how happy he is to clear the name of the woman he loves. Everyone sees his face when he talks about you, Riley. The love, the adoration. The people will see that too, and that will matter to them.”

Tears started to pool in Riley’s eyes at the mention of Liam’s name. “Even if that happens, there will always be people that define me by my scandal. I can’t let Liam take that heat, he won’t be known for the amazing things he will do as king, he will be known for his infamous queen.” 

“Riley…” Bertrand’s expression softened, he motioned for her to sit back down on the couch where he joined her. “As you are aware, Savannah was recently located, with...my son.” His voice cracked slightly, Riley noticed. “I have missed out on so much of his life, on all of this time that I could have been happy. If she had just told me what she was feeling, if she had voiced her concerns, things would have been different. We would have been a family.” He placed his hand over Riley’s before continuing. “You and Liam love each other deeply. That is clear to anyone who spends any amount of time with the two of you. Don’t lose that love because you are afraid to speak your mind. Savannah thought she knew what was best for me, and it has made both of us miserable. I wouldn’t wish that on my worst enemy, and I certainly wouldn’t wish it on my sister.”

Riley let out a small sob as Bertrand finished. He had always been so formal with her. Hearing him call her his sister, on top of all of all of the other emotions coursing through her caused the dam to burst. She covered her face with her hands, and Bertrand wrapped his arm around her shoulders and pulled her close. 

The silence in the room was broken by a ping on Bertrand’s phone. Riley pulled back to allow him to remove it from his jacket pocket. He looked at the screen, and a smirk formed on his face before he turned back to Riley. “They have him, they are all on the jet on their way back to New York. Once they arrive, he will be going right to the soundstage to make his statement. It should be released in time for the evening news.” Bertrand stood, placing his phone back in his pocket. “Riley, I know I have been putting a heavy weight on your shoulders since the day you arrived in Cordonia, but you have handled it all with a level of grace and composure that I never would have expected from someone with your background. You have not been the woman I expected when Maxwell told me he brought home a waitress to represent our house in the social season, but if you give up now, you will have done all of that work for nothing and proven my initial suspicions of you correct. You are better than that Riley, I know that now.” He walked to the door, turning back to her as his hand reached for the doorknob, “Take some time to think about things, the court will be in New York for a few more days. I hope to see you back with us when we make our return to Cordonia, but it is a decision only you can make.” With that, he walked out the door, leaving Riley alone with her thoughts. 

Permatag:

@anjanettexcordonia​ @athena-penrose​ @chemist-ana​ @choiceskatie​ @cordonia-gothqueen​ @cordoniaqueensworld​ @emkay512​ @gabesmommie1130​ @gkittylove99​ @hopelessromanticmonie​ @iaminlovewithtrr​ @jessiembruno​ @kat-tia801​ @khoicesbyk​ @kingliam2019​ @lucy-268​ @marshmallowsaremyfavorite​ @mile9213​ @mom2000aggie​ @pixie88​ @queenrileyrose​ @secretaryunpaid​ @sweatyrysconnoisseur​ @tessa-liam​ @theroyalheirshadowhunter​ @twinkleallnight​ @txemrn​

The Final Goodbye:

@ao719​ @burnsoslow​ @busywoman​ @itsjustwinter​ @ladyangel70​ @mainstreetreader​

Liam x Riley:

@jared2612​

@choicesficwriterscreations

[alj4890]

In the TRR book 3 we know Olivia gets stab by Anton during a fight, but what if Riley was the one to get stab while fighting with Anton? After all he was her press secretary and the betrayal ran deep with him!

A/N Here we go Nonny. I will admit that in book 2, I really liked Justin. His catchphrase was annoying, but so is Penelope’s incessant talk of Poodles, LOL. I enjoyed the twist in book 3 of him being the bad guy, but I did wonder why PB had Riley brushing off his betrayal so easily. Maxwell seemed more tore up than anyone that he was the terrorist. When you think about it, she spent months of the most difficult time in her and Liam’s relationship depending on this man to help her find a way to clear her name and find a way to have her happy ending. I think facing him would be harder than book 3 made it out to be. So...starting from the moment Olivia and Riley escape the dungeon and have let Gladys out of her prison, we will begin with them in the recreated Nevarkis weapons room.

Masterlist

@gkittylove99 @darley1101 @krsnlove @kingliam2019 @texaskitten30 @yourmajesty09 @mom2000aggie @ofpixelsandscribbles @twinkleallnight

Hesitation

Mysterious Nevarkis Stronghold...

"He will come for his wife," Anton boasted. "And when he does, he will meet his end."

Riley tried to focus but Anton's words kept replaying over and over in her head.

"Which weapon do you want?" Olivia asked as she picked through the different daggers.

When no response was given she looked up to see what was wrong.

Riley was staring blankly at the wall adorned with various battle axes, swords, and war hammers. Her fingers moved over the angry red marks where the rope she had been bound with had rubbed her wrists raw. Her lips parted to answer Olivia, yet no words came out.

Liam. Her heart ached at the thought of losing him. After everything she had done to finally have the chance to be with him...Anton was determined to destroy it all. How could she possibly save anyone? She had little to no training in defense, yet she foolishly believed she could save the man she loved along with herself and her friend.

"Riley?" Olivia snapped in a harsh manner.

It was just what she needed to snap out of the defeated mindset she was falling into.

Riley reached up and removed a sword from the wall. Giving a few practiced swings, she ordered Gladys to draw as many of Anton's minions away as she could.

"Thank you, your majesty." Gladys reached out to squeeze her hand.

Olivia blocked her from touching by sliding in front of Riley. Her emerald eyes burned with hatred as she spoke.

"She might be giving you another chance," Olivia set her blade against the backstabbing servant's cheek, "but if I see one lock of your hair anywhere near Justin or the fight, then I will kill you myself."

Gladys stumbled back and bobbed her head while promising that she wouldn't go anywhere near them. She tripped over her own feet to get as far away from Olivia and her knives as she could.

Riley snorted on a laugh. She couldn't believe that at a time like this, her mind could see any kind of humor. "You need to teach me how to do that."

Olivia smirked at her as she led the way out.

The hallways were silent as the two crept along, sticking to the shadows as much as they could. After seeing that the rooms they came to were empty, Olivia begrudgingly complimented Gladys's ability to clear the way for them.

"Wait a sec." Riley whispered.

She handed Olivia her sword and then bent over to rip a slit in her dress. Testing it out, she ripped it higher until her legs felt free to move. What she wouldn't give to be wearing any other kind of shoe over the open toed high heels she had on.

"You good?" Olivia whispered.

With a nod, Riley took her sword back and continued down the hallway.

Murmurs of differing voices were heard when they approached a corner.

Olivia raised her dagger while Riley positioned beside her with her sword hedged over her shoulder like a baseball bat.

"They must be some--" Drake stopped just a hairsbreadth from being cleaved in two.

"Riley!" Hana pushed past him and Maxwell to hug her and Olivia. "Thank goodness you're both okay!"

"Where's Liam?" Riley stood on tiptoes to see over Drake's shoulders. "Isn't he with you?"

Maxwell rubbed the back of his neck. "He insisted on meeting Justin alone."

"Liam wanted us to find you and Olivia." Drake added.

"What about Bastien and the other guards?" Olivia asked.

The three shared a look.

"They didn't come?!" Riley hissed. "Liam has no one watching his back?"

"Yet." Olivia tilted her head. "He'll have us soon enough.

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

Riley didn't know where this burst of courage came from, but she had already vaulted over a stairwell and slashed numerous soldiers that tried to help Anton fight Liam. Her heart was racing in time to her husband's every flinch and movement. She knew she should double check on her other friends to make certain they were holding their own, but the moment she heard Liam say, where is my wife, in that deep, dangerous tone...she only knew she had to do whatever was necessary to protect him.

They had not had a chance to speak or even to touch to make certain the other was truly okay before being thrust into the battle that she prayed was truly the final altercation.

She paused off to the side after wrestling with another minion. She brushed the hair out of her flushed face that had escaped her pearl hair clip. Her mind tried to comprehend the utter chaos going on around her.

And then she saw Anton make his move.

There was no time to shout a warning to Liam who was fighting three at once. The dagger’s blade in Anton's hand gleamed in the faint moonlight filtering in the windows as he raised it to stab Cordonia's young king in the back.

Riley kicked her shoes off and rushed to get between them. The muscles in her arms burned from lifting the heavy sword high above her head. Using what energy she had left, she blocked the blade about to pierce her beloved's heart.

Anton's lips twisted in a frustrated snarl as he leveled his cold gaze upon her.

Liam turned around in time to see what Riley had done. Just as he was about to help her, Claude barreled into him, knocking him into a far wall. Drake rushed over to help Liam when two other soldiers answered Anton's second in command's call for assistance.

Anton gritted his teeth at seeing his men defeated by people who spent all their time at fancy dinners and balls. Taking a step back to reassess whether or not this was the time to claim the crown, he decided retreat for the moment was the best option.

"It's over Justin." Riley told him. "Surrender now."

His expression eased into that of his easy going alter ego. "The battle might be, but this will not end until you and Liam are dead."

He sprinted over to the stairwell.

Riley dashed after him, determined to not live the rest of her life in fear.

"Justin!" She shouted.

He turned just in time to barely miss her sword's blade plunging into his back.

Smirking, he faced her. "I see you learned more from me than how to work the press."

She blinked at how calm he was as he lifted his dagger. Memories of time spent with him flittered through her mind. His effort in supporting her, laughing late at night with her and Maxwell over some of the ridiculous events they took part in, comforting her whenever she lost hope that she could one day truly be with Liam.

He had been a friend when she desperately needed one.

Her hands trembled as they tightened on the hilt of her sword.

It wasn't Justin who faced her now. It was the man who had worked with traitors to take the crown. The man who had tried numerous times to kill her and anyone else who got in his way. It was the man who threatened her the very future she had fought so hard to obtain..

It was Anton who stood before her.

Her friend Justin was no more. His death had come swiftly the moment she discovered his photograph in Olivia's vault.

And soon Anton's would follow.

"Riley, let us end this." He cajoled when he noticed her hesitate. "You don't have it in you to kill anyone." His familiar Justin smile flittered about his lips. "I know you. You are the kind of person who deserves to live a happy life. Not one caught up in political intrigue."

He edged a step closer as his . "It shouldn't have been you that was kidnapped. If you had only given up on Liam and allowed Madeleine to have him." He shook his head in pity while his Svengali like voice washed over her. "I wish you had stayed in New York. You will be the only person I regret ever having to eliminate."

Before Riley could react, he plunged his dagger into her side.

A hot wave of pain hit her when he jerked the knife out. She staggered back in shock. Her sword fell from her numb fingers, clattering as it fell down the stairs.

She could hear a roar thrumming through her ears and realized it was Liam.

He had just witnessed his wife being stabbed.

Justin glanced over his shoulder to taunt the current king.

Unable to focus on anything going on around her except the agony she felt, Riley pressed her hand to her side and felt the warmth of her own blood seeping through her fingers. Her side felt like it was on fire as she sank slowly to the floor. She glanced down the stairs and saw Olivia struggling against a solider to reach her.

With a violent flick of her wrist, her dagger went into the man's throat that had tried to pin her to the wall.

Olivia staggered as she walked, blood trickling down from her nose and bottom lip.

"If you can breathe, you can stand." She mouthed to Riley.

"And if you can stand, you can fight." Riley mouthed back.

Unable to get to her feet easily, Riley crawled over to where Justin stood. His back was to her as he threatened Liam and her friends. He continued to torture her husband by going into vivid detail all the ways he could finish her off.

Looking for anything she could possibly wield as a weapon, she noticed the loose railing and decided to use part of the training Mara had given her. Summoning all her strength into her legs she braced herself against a banister and swept Justin's out from under him.

He teetered, trying to find some balance by grasping onto the railing. The moment he did, Riley rose to her knees and shoved against him, causing his body weight to crack the rotted wood and plummet down to the main floor.

Gasping in pain from the exertion, she fell back once more on the worn carpet and closed her eyes.

"Riley!" Liam rushed the stairs, leaving Drake and Maxwell to deal with Justin.

He fell to his knees. His voice cracked as he whispered denials that he had been too late to save her.

Her eyes fluttered open only to close again as he kissed her. She could feel the exhausted desperation in his touch.

"Where are you hurt?" He asked. "Did he stab you anywhere else?"

"No." She whimpered when he eased her hand away from her wound. "Just there."

He tried to be gentle as he ripped his coat off to press against her side.

Bastien and the rest of the King's Guards burst through the doors.

"Your majesty!" He didn't bother to mask his anger. "You shouldn't have--"

"The queen has been wounded!" Liam interrupted harshly. "She requires immediate medical attention!"

Bastien hurried up to examine her while radioing for an ambulance.

"Hold on, my love." Liam pleaded. "Please. Stay with me."

She weakly grasped his hand. "Is it over? Justin didn't--"

"He's being taken care of." Liam told her. "He won't ever have a chance to harm you again."

"You're safe." Riley gasped when EMT's began to check her. Her voice became faint as blackness ebbed around her vision "I didn't lose you, Liam."

The last thing she remembered before blacking out completely was Liam's concerned face hovering over her.

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

The Royal Palace...

A few hours later, Riley stirred. She blinked a few times to make the room she was in come into focus. A lamp turned down low glowed on a nightstand. Familiar paintings of past kings and queens hung on the walls. The beyond soft bed she was in brought back memories of a particular ball when Liam had shown her the Royal chambers.

A smile formed at that romantic thought as she sank further under the blankets.

"Riley?"

She opened her eyes again and noticed the outline of a man sitting in a chair by the bed.

"Liam?" She turned about, wincing when she felt the tug of stitches along her right side. "What happened?"

He leaned forward and took her hand in his. Pressing a kiss to it, he went through the series of events.

Images flashed through her mind, as the memories of her fight came rushing back.

"No more Sons of the Earth?" She asked.

"The ones who survived have been captured."

Her eyes widened. "Survived? Who died?"

Liam kept her hand clasped between his. "A few that Olivia and I fought...and some that you did."

Riley tried to comprehend that she had killed people. "How...how many?"

"My love, there is no need to dwell--"

"Liam." She gripped his hand. "Did I kill Justin?"

She knew by his hesitation that she had.

"The way he fell," Liam swallowed, "he broke his neck."

Riley pulled her hand away to cover her mouth.

"I beg for your forgiveness." Liam choked out. "If I had been there sooner or had--"

She shook her head while reaching for him. Urging him to lay on the bed with her, she tried to comfort him.

"You don't owe me an apology." She said through her tears. "You came to rescue me." She tried to smile. "Just like every prince does in fairy tales."

He wiped her tears. "I don't want you burdened with what happened." His eyes searched hers. "All I have ever wanted is to give you every good thing in life, not have one overshadowed with fear and guilt."

She swallowed audibly. "I'll be fine. I just...I can't believe I had to kill someone I spent time with. I actually enjoyed his company during your engagement tour." Her nose wrinkled. "The pain in my side though keeps reminding me he deserved being pushed over the banister."

"My only regret is that I didn't get a chance to be the one to end his existence on this earth." Liam's face darkened with his anger. "He dared multiple times to take you from me. He killed my father. Made our people doubt their safety and the crown's ability to defend it. If I couldn't fight him to the death myself, then I should have been the one to sentence him to such."

She cupped his cheek. Knowing he needed to vent after all they had been put through, she listened without interruption. When she felt his tense muscles relax, her mind turned to what they should do now.

"We both need to focus on it finally being over." She pressed a kiss to his lips. "All our plans to be together, to start a family, can be from this moment on. We fought for Cordonia, our friends," her smile peeked out when he kissed her, "we fought for us and for every moment we are lucky enough to share."

"You're right." Liam turned to kiss her palm. "We have a future before us, one of our choosing."

She snuggled closer in his arms, sighing as she felt sleep luring her back into its soothing confines. Just as she began to drift off, an image of Justin came to mind. It wasn't the man she had faced tonight, it was the one who helped protect her from cameras being shoved in her face during that very first meeting. She could see him pushing reporters out of her way, while holding tight to her waist.

It seems appropriate, Riley thought, to have a scar along the very spot Justin had once touched in such a deceptive, gentle manner. Having a personality that tried to only see the good in others, she would need a daily reminder to be more cautious in the future.

Her trust would never be so easily given again.

[sincerelyella]

All In My Head Part 6

Book: The Royal Romance (AU)

Pairings: Liam x MC (Ella)

Characters belong to Pixelberry; MC Ella Brooks belongs to me.

Song Inspiration: All In My Head by Tori Kelly

A/N: This is the first mini series I’ve ever written and I am so nervous about it! This is set in book 2 chapter 1, after the mess at the coronation takes place. MC has been stuck at Ramsford doing her daily lessons with the Beaumont brothers. Some cannon but mostly went left with this!

A/N2: Liam’s social season lasted about 5 months. He and MC had been carrying on their relationship since the beginning, they just had to do this in secret. I do work in healthcare, however, my specialty isn’t Obstetrics. If there are errors please don’t hate me.

Thank you @burnsoslow for prereading and letting me bounce ideas off of your brilliant mind!

Warnings: Angst; Fluff

Words: 1689

Ella vaguely smelled cleaning solution and hand sanitizer mixed with … Liam’s cologne? Her stomach did a little flip. She tried to open her eyes but her eyelids felt so heavy. Maybe one at a time. She slowly opened her right eye, then her left. She squinted and tried to focus on the items in the room around her. Where am I?

Then she heard him. “Love? How are you feeling?”

Liam pressed the button on the call light to alert the nurses that Ella was awake. She focused on his face and finally the blurriness cleared. “Oh, hi,” she gave him a sheepish smile. “What happened? Where is everyone?”

Liam stood from his chair beside the hospital bed, leaned over and softly pressed his lips to hers. “You fainted yesterday, fell off the bar stool. Everyone is in the waiting room, I’ve been texting them updates. Thank goodness Hana was with you in the kitchen,” he looked at her sternly. “Why didn’t you tell me you haven’t been feeling well?”

Ella let out a breath, feeling guilty in that moment. “The dizziness and headaches were a new thing. I just figured the whole nausea and throwing up thing was from whatever Max bought me to eat.”

“So, you’ve learned to not eat everything Maxwell brings you right?”

“But he brings me food when I’m hungry,” she pouted. He couldn’t resist that pout. He leaned over, caught her bottom lip between his teeth and pulled gently.

“I’ll need to have a talk with Lord Beaumont if he fed you something that caused you to have food poisoning.”

The couple was interrupted by a loud knock on the door, a female doctor and nurse stepping inside the room. They both curtsied to Liam. “Hello, Your Majesty, Ms. Brooks. It’s good to see you awake. I’m Dr. Parrish and this is my nurse Angela. How are you feeling today?”

“I just have a headache, it’s kind of been ongoing since the day I fainted. Wait, what day is it?”

Dr. Parrish chuckled. “It’s Wednesday, Ms. Brooks, you’ve only been here for a night. Are you nauseated at all?”

Ella shook her head. “Not right now. I remember having some weird metallic taste in my mouth though.”

“Metallic taste?” Dr. Parrish frowned. “Could be from all the vomiting. I do want you to try to eat something, just clear fluids for now; if you can hold down the liquids we can advance your diet accordingly. Did you want any medication for your headache?”

“No thanks, right now I’m okay.”

“Alright, sounds good. I’m going to check on your lab results and be right back.” Dr. Parrish curtsied to Liam and walked out the door.

The nurse Angela looked at Ella, “All you have to do is press the call button if you need any pain medications.”

Ella nodded, “I will, thank you.” Angela nodded, curtsied quickly to Liam and walked out to give the couple some privacy.

Liam reached over and grabbed Ella’s hand. “Love, I didn’t get a chance to tell you what happened when I spoke with my father,” he gave her a sad smile.

Ella slowly sat up straight in bed. “What happened? What did he say?”

Liam sighed. “He … was not apologetic. He stood by his actions and basically said he still believes Madeleine was the better choice for queen.”

Ella slowly nodded. “Well, what he thinks doesn’t matter. As long as we’re together and he allows us to live our lives.” She looked down at their joined hands and noticed his knuckles were swollen and had dried blood. She met his eyes and gave him an inquiring look; not missing the way his jaw clenched before answering.

“Ahh, so the conversation didn’t end … well,” he said.

“What about Madeleine? Have they found her yet?”

He shook his head. “Bastien thinks she fled Cordonia after I called off the engagement. Probably to Karlington, where her father has a duchy.”

There is another knock on the door and Dr. Parrish walks back into the room with papers in her hand.

“Ms. Brooks,” she said with a smile on her face. “We got your lab results back and everything looks normal except your hCG levels are through the roof.”

Ella looks up at the doctor with wide eyes, knowing exactly what that meant, her nursing education coming back to her. How did I not think of this before?

Liam had a puzzled look on his face and finally spoke up. “What does that mean doctor?”

Dr. Parrish smiled at the couple. “Your Majesty, it means Ms. Brooks is pregnant. I’ve consulted with an obstetrician to do an ultrasound to confirm the pregnancy and also answer any questions you may have.”

Ella and Liam looked up at the doctor, then looked at each other, eyes wide.

“Congratulations to you both. The specialist will be in shortly.” Dr. Parrish left the room.

“You’re pregnant,” Liam said. He couldn’t wipe that grin off his face as he leaned in to kiss Ella on her lips.

“You’re happy about this?” Ella asked incredulously.

Liam laughed. “Of course I am. I’ve always wanted a family, and I’m over the moon with excitement that I get to start a family with you.” He caught the look on her face and his smile faded slightly. Oh my God is she not happy about this? “Are … you happy?”

Ella looked at Liam and burst into tears. Damnit! She’s definitely not happy about this. Liam’s eyes went wide and immediately moved to sit on the edge of the bed.

“Love, what’s wrong?” He wrapped his arms around her and pressed a kiss into her hair.

“No … wonder I felt … so sick!” Her words were muffled against his chest as she sobbed. “And hungry! I am so … hungry! All the … time!”

She hiccuped, then suddenly she pulled away from Liam’s arms, eyes wide. “Oh my God … I ate *hic* raw … chicken!!” She started to sob even harder and covered her face with her hands.

God I love her. Liam tucked his lips between his teeth to keep the laugh building in his chest from coming out. “Love … it’s going to be fine. We get to see our baby,” he tucked a strand of her hair behind her ear and stared into her eyes. “Were you not happy about having a baby with me?”

“I am … happy *hic* … Liam! So so so happy! I love you! *hic* I want this baby … *hic* so much!”

Liam turned to grab a cup of water on the bedside table and handed it to Ella. As she took a sip to get rid of her hiccups he smiled. He took the cup and put it back on the table, then pressed his lips to hers. “Me too,” he whispered. “I love you, a whole lot.”

They both jumped when there was another loud knock at the door. A woman wearing a white coat walked into the room. “Your Majesty,” she curtsied. “Ms. Brooks, I’m Dr. McCloud, it’s nice to meet you both. I’m the obstetrician that will be doing your ultrasound today. We do the ultrasounds differently when you’re in the early stage of pregnancy.” She instructed Ella to scoot closer to the edge of the bed and place her feet in stirrups.

“Okay, so I’ll be using this transducer, or ‘wand’ as we like to call it, to do the ultrasound,” Dr. McCloud explained. “This will help me see how the baby is doing and take some measurements. Do you have any questions before I start?”

Ella shook her head, then looked at Liam who also shook his head.

“Alright then.”

The doctor had Ella lay back and instructed her to try to relax. Liam grabbed one of Ella’s hands and they both fixed their gazes onto the screen. The couple watched in awe as a black and white fuzzy picture popped up.

“Hmmm …”

Both Liam and Ella snapped their gaze over to where the doctor was positioned.

“Is everything okay?” Liam asked.

“Uh, yes! Everything is fine. Sorry, I didn’t mean to alarm you. You are having twins and this explains your lab results. Your hCG levels were very high, Ms. Brooks,” the doctor pointed to the screen. “Here is Baby A and right here is Baby B. You’re measuring about nine weeks along,” she explained as she labeled the babies for them.

Ella and Liam stared at the computer in shock, tears falling from their eyes. Dr. McCloud took two pictures of the screen, printed them and handed them to Ella.

“Here’s your babies,” she said with a grin. The doctor began to gather the equipment and had Ella slide back up on the bed. “Do either of you have questions for me?”

“Can I have something for nausea? It’s been really bad over the last week,” Ella said, sheepishly looking at Liam who gave her a look.

“Absolutely. I’ll have the order sent to the pharmacy and once we discharge you, you can bring them home. Take them sparingly.”

“Doctor, does she need to follow certain … dietary restrictions?” Liam arched his brow at Ella as he spoke.

Dr. McCloud laughed at Liam’s expression. “Well, just try to eat well in general. Lots of fruits, veggies, and protein. I’ll have you follow up with a primary obstetrician, they can even come see you at the palace if needed.” Liam nodded and thanked the doctor for all her help.

“It was a pleasure meeting both of you,” she said with a smile. “I’ll let Dr. Parrish know that you’re cleared for discharge. It’ll be up to her to discharge you home.” Dr. McCloud curtsied to Liam, turned and shook Ella’s hand then walked out of the room.

Before they could say a word there was a knock at the door. “Come in!” Ella called.

In strode Hana, Drake, Maxwell and Leo, all wearing wide grins on their faces.

“Hey, Blossom! We have a surprise for you!”

[jovialyouthmusic]

Two’s Company -Changes

As Lucy continues to help Brad recall their early days, Sophia and Bastien welcome two new arrivals. 

Word Count 3918

A/N This is pure fluff, but if you are triggered by issues concerning fertility, pregnancy, medical environments or giving birth, give this chapter a miss. To be truthful, this chapter mostly features Bastien and Sophia, but it foreshadows Lucy’s future...

9 Welcome to the Twins

The band started up in the ballroom, playing background music while the guests arrived and were briefly announced. The Charity Ball at the Palace was under way at last. Lucy had insisted on Brad wearing the suit he’d had for the social season in which they’d met, and he thought he knew why.

‘And why does Drake get to wear his denim shirt at this formal occasion?’ he had quizzed her, just the same. She just smiled enigmatically.

‘If you don’t know you’ll find out in good time. Now go down and wait for the guests. I’ll follow in a little while. Don’t worry if I’m late, it’s all part of the surprise’

So Brad stood greeting the nobles that had attended the social season, the former suitors presenting themselves to him one by one. Madeleine was a little sour faced, but then that wasn’t unusual. Lady Penelope gave him a deep curtsy

‘Ah, Lady Penelope. It’s been a while. How are you – and your poodles? Did you bring them tonight?’ He had no memory of the dogs, but he had been given a set of cards with relevant details to review. He knew that prior to his car accident he had excellent recall on all the members of court, and his father had uncharacteristically praised him for it.

‘Thank you your Majesty, the Queen asked me to leave them behind tonight. Morgan and Morgana were quite upset’

‘I’m so sorry’ he said smoothly ‘Perhaps next time. I’ll make sure to ask her majesty to allow it’

‘Thankyou your Grace’ she inclined her head ‘And many congratulations on your recent…’ she froze for a second, a look of panic spreading across her lovely face, scanning the ballroom, her eye alighting on Drake standing nursing a glass of whiskey at the bar. His denim shirt stuck out like a sore thumb amongst the dinner jackets and ballgowns ‘uhhh marriages’ Penelope squeaked, and moved hurriedly away. Brad noticed Drake was talking to a woman in a red dress with a mask. She looked over and started to walk across the ballroom toward him, and he suddenly felt dizzy.

‘Hello, you’ll have to forgive me, but I don’t think we’ve met’

‘We’ve actually met once before’

‘Surely I would have remembered’

‘I suppose this mask is doing its job’

‘Will you give me a hint?’

‘you were surrounded by your friends…’

‘That’s not much of a clue…’

‘And you owed me a drink’

‘Lucy! I - never thought I’d see you again’ Brad said in a dream as she reached his side. She smiled broadly, taking her mask off.

‘Did it work?’ she asked, and he nodded, swallowing.

‘Yes – I think I need some fresh air’ She turned and waved at the band, and they swooped into a familiar tune – the one they had played when they had first danced together. He held on to her tight as the music swirled around him.

‘I’m a little better at dancing this time’ she smiled ‘and it’s my turn to sweep you off behind the curtains’ Soon he was leaning on the balcony taking lungfuls of air as the memories swirled around him. The dance, sneaking out to the maze – the chase, the kiss. He shook his head and stood tall, turning back to his wife – his Queen.

‘What is it about you, Lucy? Why did you make me want to break all the rules?’ he said softly. She put her hand to his cheek.

‘Because the rules were making you unhappy’ she replied ‘and in return you changed the rules for me and brought the three of us together’ He leaned closer and kissed her tenderly, his hand grazing her belly.

‘Here’s another big change. Life will never be the same again.’ he whispered close to her ear ‘When did we next meet? I remember the maze’

‘Well, I think I can risk it rather than waiting to stage it’ Lucy replied’ It’s a long time to the races’

‘Ah, the races’ he screwed up his forehead, then his face cleared. ‘I lost my bet on the winning horse and paid the usual forfeit – except you sat on my back along with Drake’ She smiled happily

‘How about the lawn party?’ she asked, but he frowned and shook his head.

‘I’m sorry’ he said dejectedly. She caught at his arm and squeezed it.

‘Never mind, not everyone remembers every little thing. I’ve had to rack my brain too. Let’s just leave it for now, enjoy the ball’

-------

In the staff wing, the sounds of the ball were a distant whisper of sound, unheard as the TV showed Sophia’s current bingeworthy period drama. She had stopped nitpicking the historical inaccuracies and dozed, the voices murmuring in the background. She smiled as the scene cut to a Regency ball in full swing.

‘Go on, admit you love her’ she mumbled, briefly surfacing to berate the male lead for not seeing what was under his nose. The female lead smiled, gazing into his eyes as they twirled and dipped. ‘So romantic’ she sniffled and reached for a tissue to dab at her eyes.

‘Hmmm?’ Bastien rumbled as he stirred in his easy chair, leg propped on a footstool as he sat vigil by his very pregnant wife’s side. Sophia laboured to sit up a little, and he got to his feet to help her, leg stiff from inaction.

‘Simon won’t admit he’s madly in love with Daphne’ she told him ‘and she’s so innocent she doesn’t realise he’s the man for her’ she sighed ‘I know, sentimental rubbish, but I can’t get enough’

‘Whatever makes you happy, theà mou’ Bastien smiled. He knelt by her side ‘May I?’ he asked, hand hovering over her bump. She nodded.

‘You had a large part to play in my current state.’ she grumbled ‘One of the tiddlers is using my bladder as a trampoline’ Bastien smiled, smoothing his hand over her belly. A little bump rose to meet his palm.

‘Not long till we meet them in person’ He stroked it, identifying it as a foot. ‘Come on little ones, Papa’s waiting and Mama’s tired’ He looked up at her ‘Shall I help you to the bathroom?’

‘Yes please, just let me pause this’ She pressed the button on the TV remote, and Bastien helped her to her feet. She groaned, hand in her lower back. ‘I don’t think I’ll ever be the same again’ she grumbled ‘Remind me not to do this again’ Bastien decided not to comment, as pregnancy hormones made his beloved somewhat cranky and he couldn’t think of an answer that she wouldn’t turn against him right now. She paused, grimacing with pain

‘Damn these Braxton Hicks’ she muttered, and he stroked her belly, feeling it harden under his hand, waiting until it softened again. She had been having contractions for a couple of days but the midwife had assured them it was nothing to worry about.

‘It’s fine, just practice for the real thing’ she had said briskly ‘Even with twins it’s quite normal. If they don’t subside within 48 hours, let me know’ They reached the door of the bathroom, where Sophia waved him away.

‘I can manage from here’ she snapped. He had removed the lock on the door in case of emergencies, and watched anxiously as she closed it behind her. ‘A little privacy please’ she called testily ‘I can hear you breathing’ He sighed and moved a little further away, the faint sound of her urination reaching him still. He knew he shouldn’t be so fearful about her wellbeing, but years of service on the Guard brought back memories of various emergencies involving impending childbirth. The Guard were the first line of assistance before medical staff could get to the Palace, and many other mansions he had served at were some distance from maternity facilities.

One notable example was seared into his brain when a noble lady had gone into labour miles out to sea on the Royal Yacht. He hadn’t been the only one to advise against the trip, but arrogance had won out over prudence and she had almost given birth before the air ambulance had winched her off the yacht. He was thankful the weather had been fair at the time.

He snapped back to the moment as he heard a little gasp. He stood up straight, straining his ears as a wail followed it.

‘Bas’ his wife called out, a hint of panic in her voice ‘Call the hospital – my waters just broke’

-------

At the hospital, Sophia was whisked away to be examined. Bastien was curtly told to wait, and paced the waiting room anxiously, massaging his hand from the pain of his wife clutching it fiercely on the drive over. Drake and Hana arrived to find him muttering curses against the doctors.

‘Calm down, Bas’ Drake had soothed ‘She’s in the best of hands’ Bastien glowered at him and straightened his shoulders.

‘She was supposed to see the midwife in the morning’ he growled ‘The risk with twins is elevated. I knew I should have insisted on an earlier appointment’

‘What exactly happened?’ Hana said, trying to ground him. He paused and ran his fingers through his hair, ruffling it out of its usual neat quiff.

‘Her waters broke’ he said ‘The babies each have their own sac but share a placenta and need to be delivered at the same time. If they’re both head down it’s possible to do it without a caesarean’ Before anyone could ask anything else, a nurse appeared.

‘Mr Lykel?’ He stepped forward, placing his hand on her arm.

‘How is she? Can I see her?’

‘She’s very well, considering’ she said, removing his hand ‘You really should have come in earlier. With twins…’ She paled at Bastien’s expression as he glared at her.

‘Our midwife told us all was fine’ he ground out.

‘Well, no matter.  She’s in labour and things seem to be moving quickly. Do you have a birth plan?’

‘We do’ he said, massaging his forehead and taking a deep breath ‘it’s filed here. Do you not have it?’ She looked flustered.

‘I think perhaps you should come through, if it’s what you’d planned’

‘It is. Take me to her now…’

Bastien entered the delivery room with trepidation. Sophia was flushed and sweaty, laying back in the bed in a loose hospital gown, her knees drawn up and a sheet covering her modesty. A midwife stood next to her and turned directly to meet him. Sophia lowered her knees and he could see the sensor strapped to the swell of her belly. A machine next to the bed monitored the babies’ heartbeats, and emitted a low whooshing noise.

‘Is this the babies’ father?’ the midwife asked brightly.

‘I am.’ He said curtly, going to Sophia’s side, taking her hand and kissing it.

‘I’m Sandy, and I’ll be looking after Mum and baby – that is, babies’ she smiled

‘Bas’ Sophia said faintly ‘Wherever have you been? You need to call Mum, let her know.’

‘I came in as soon as they said I could. There’s no need to call Edith just yet, she’ll only worry.’ Sophia gasped in pain, squeezing his hand with a deathlike grip and Sandy swiftly handed her a breathing tube.

‘Gas and air – entonox. It’s quite safe’ the midwife assured Bastien. By the time Bastien had nodded, the contraction was almost over, and Sophia collapsed back onto the pillows, her eyes a little glazed.

‘You do realise this is twins?’ Bastien queried ‘Shouldn’t there be more staff?’

‘We are very busy tonight, Mr Lykel. As soon as it’s necessary I’ll call for help’ She went to the end of the bed to examine Sophia.

‘You’re dilating nicely, Mrs Lykel. Not long and we’ll be asking you to push. Babies are doing fine and getting ready to come out and say hello.’

‘How are they positioned?’ Bastien asked.

‘Both are head down, so you can deliver naturally if you’d like, Mrs Lykel’

‘Sophia’ she said  testily ‘my name’s Sophia. I’ll do my best but I’m not against pain relief’

‘Of course, Sophia. Do you know the sexes?’

‘Yes’ she smiled, and looked up at Bastien. ‘One of each’

‘Well, it’s hard to tell which one will be making an appearance first, but baby number two won’t be far behind’

‘Bas, can Hana come in?’ Sophia asked ‘We’re may need an extra pair of hands’ He looked at the midwife.

‘As it’s twins, two helpers are allowed in the delivery room as long as all is going  smoothly’ At that moment a doctor entered with a clipboard.

‘Mr Lykel – apologies for the delay in finding your birth plan’ she said as Sandy ducked out of the room to fetch Hana. She looked down at the papers she held, scanning swiftly ‘I see you’ve opted for a natural birth if it’s possible, with minimal pain relief’. Sophia made a little moan in answer.

‘Do I have to do this twice?’

‘Don’t worry Mrs Lykel, the first delivery paves the way for the second. You’ll hardly notice baby number two’ Another contraction hit her, and she grabbed the breathing tube, gulping at it greedily. Her head rolled back onto the pillow as the contraction faded and she gazed up at Bastien, eyes glassy from the anaesthetic.

‘I’d like some Ben and Jerry’s right now. Phish food.’ He couldn’t help but chuckle.

‘Maybe later, theà mou’ He lifted her hand and kissed it. Hana entered with the midwife and went to her side.

‘Hana, you came’ She smiled beatifically ‘You’ll be Auntie soon’

‘I can’t wait to meet your little ones’ Hana beamed excitedly.

‘Oh Hana, that’s so sweet of you’ Sophia winced as the midwife examined her again.

‘Once we get started, things might happen quite quickly’ she warned ‘After all, baby number two is going to want to catch up. At this point it’s too late for an epidural, but as things are going smoothly, Entonox should be sufficient’ Lucy looked startled

‘No epidural?’ she asked ‘Oh, fuck. Bas, what if it gets worse?’

‘Sophia, gas and air will be fine. Remember, it’s what we discussed, it’s safer in the majority of cases’ he soothed, earning a quizzical look.

‘Stop mansplaining, Bas. I’m thirsty’ she snapped, and the midwife took Bastien aside as Hana handed Sophia a cup of ice chips.

‘Don’t worry, Mr Lykel, Lucy’s going through transition. She’ll get very emotional. She may even get abusive. She’s fully dilated, so I’m going to call for assistance.’ He nodded knowingly. He’d done his research and was fully prepared for her to swear and curse and berate him for ever touching her. He knew it would be the hormones talking. He braced himself and went back to the bedside as the room suddenly became very busy with hospital staff. He focussed on Lucy as another contraction hit and she took great gulps of the gas and air again. This was a long one, and she lay back once it had ebbed away, moaning.

‘Whose idea was this?’ she moaned ‘It’s not natural’ Bastien bit his tongue, desperate to point out that it was in fact the most natural thing in the world to give birth – but he wasn’t the one suffering on the hospital bed. ‘I’m never doing this again’ she panted ‘you can forget sex, I’m staying celibate’ Bastien grinned uncomfortably, trying to avoid eye contact with any of the staff. Hana sniggered behind her hand ‘Is it time to push yet?’

‘Not just yet, Sophia’ Sandra assured her. ‘You’ll know when, but I’m here to help’ Sophia gasped as another contraction hit, and took the anaesthetic again. Bastien worried that she was taking too much as she collapsed back on the pillow, but kept his mouth shut, trusting the medical staff. Sophia turned to speak to him.

‘Bas, do you think we’re having twins because of your enormous – you know?’ she hissed, pointing to his groin in a stage whisper that carried right across the room. Hana giggled and reddened, and Sandy looked amused. Bastien coloured and cleared his throat, his smile turning to a grimace. ‘He does, you know, Sandra’ she said, motioning her closer ‘He’s – you know, very big down there. The sex is great. He’s got fantastic stamina.’ Sandra made a strangled noise.

‘I’ve never come across any corelation in size and fecundity or multiple births, Mrs Lykel’ she assured her, when she was able to speak. She took a calming breath, looking at the monitors. ‘Now, I want  you to remember your birthing classes and prepare yourself to push’.

As promised, thing happened very quickly after that. Her next contraction hit hard, and Bastien lead her through her breathing, both elated and scared at the intensity of her experience. She was told to push, and he stayed with her, enduring her tight grip and murmuring words of encouragement. After each bout of pushing she lay back on the pillows, flushed and sweating, swearing that he’d never touch her again.

‘Mr Lykel, would you like to welcome baby? It’s very close now.’ Sandra said at last. He looked briefly at Sophia, torn between staying at her side and being the first to hold their child, but she nodded at him before the next onslaught. He moved down the bed as she strained and cried out with pain and effort, and was just in time to see the baby’s head emerge, followed by its shoulders. Sandra guided his hands so that he caught the warm slippery bundle. He was afraid of letting it slip, but managed to get a firm grip, and the midwife smiled triumphantly. Gazing down at the screwed up indignant face of his child, he felt an overwhelming wave of pure love and adoration unlike anything he had felt before. Time slowed and stopped as he held his own flesh and blood, his face softening into a broad smile. The little mouth opened and let out a roar of protest and rage, limbs flailing.

‘Papa has you, little one’ he crooned soothingly, knowing that first breath showed health and vigour.

‘Congratulations Mr and Mrs Lykel, your first baby is a healthy baby boy’ Sandra announced before handing him the instrument to cut the umbilical cord, and he carefully severed the connection. Briefly she wiped him clean as Bastien maintained his hold, the baby’s yell changing to wails in the unfamiliar environment. He shushed, and the little creature shuddered and quietened a little.

Sophia held out her arms eagerly and Bastien hurried to hand him over to place on her chest, wondering how long she would have before their little girl followed.

‘My little one’ she whispered, tenderly cradling him ‘We’re so thrilled to meet you at last’ She gazed down as the baby fell silent, arms folding over his chest and knees drawing up to meet them, face peaceful and enquiring. Hana sniffled beside her, and Sophia turned to the side. ‘Meet your Aunty Hana’ she breathed, before wincing in pain again. ‘I think your sister wants out’ she gasped, and a nurse swiftly took the baby and whisked him away.

‘Don’t worry, we just need to check him over, but I think he’s absolutely fine’ she assured Bastien.

‘Here’s your little girl’ Sandra called ‘Not long now’, and he went to stand ready, his hands trembling as a second head emerged, Sophia crying out again. She slipped out swiftly, but was safe in her father’s hands in an instant. He was hit by another wave of love and adoration just as intense as the last one, his heart full to bursting. Her cry was reedy and full of complaint and she wailed as he cut the cord, Sandra steadying it for Bastien to juggle his tasks. Both of the babies had seemed tiny in his large hands, both roomy and clumsy all at once.

‘Here, Papa has you safe’ he murmured ‘Come and meet your Mama’ Carefully he relayed her to Sophia. Her face glowed with happiness at holding her daughter, eyes fixed on her as she fussed at the bright light and unfamiliar surroundings.

‘My sweet one’ she crooned, and the baby quietened just as her brother had ‘You’re perfect’. She looked up at her husband ‘Look what we did’ she whispered. He placed his hand on her shoulder and looked down at the newest arrival, tiny fingers waving like starfish, little mouth opening and closing. He kissed the top of Sophia’s head.

‘Theà mou, I love you so much. I’m blessed’ his voice caught, and the nurse returned with the little boy, now wrapped up warmly, and took his sister away to be cleaned and checked. Sophia held her finger out and the baby gaped, little mouth gurning in a half yawn, half smile. Soon his sister was handed back and Sophia cradled one baby in each arm, looking from one to the other in awe. The boy had a shock of black hair like his father’s and his eyes were pale grey. His sister’s hair was black but not as abundant, her pale eyes a shade bluer.

‘How can I ever spend a single second not loving these two?’ she whispered ‘How can I feel so much love for them – and for you?’ Bastien squeezed her shoulder, unable to speak for the lump in his throat. He had never felt so deliriously happy – and scared.

‘Do you have names?’ the nurse asked ‘The babies’ tags just say boy and girl for now. There’s no hurry’ Sophia looked up at Bastien.

‘Theodore?’ she asked. They had a few names picked out but didn’t want to fix them until the babies were born. He nodded in approval, as they had also decided that she should finalise the boy’s name, and he the girl’s.

‘And Beatrice’ he replied, getting a little tilt of his wife’s head in response. He cleared his throat

‘Theodore Costa Lykel and Beatrice Edith Lykel’ he said clearly, the names floating up into the air like a declaration of existence, an acceptance into the world for the two babes. The boy’s second name was that of his foster father’s, the girl’s was Sophia’s mother’s. They could have been Theodore Robert and Beatrice Althea, or the first names might have been different, but as soon as he spoke them aloud they sounded right, and he knew Sophia agreed. She lay propped up, beaming with exhausted happiness as she held her new arrivals. She had never looked more beautiful, her damp hair curling to frame her face, cheeks rosy, and an expression of pure love and joy in her eyes. Sandra cleared her throat.

‘Sophia, we just have to check the placenta, clean you up and make sure all’s well. Perhaps Mr Lykel could take the babies, or we could put them in the cots.’

‘I can help’ Hana piped up, and Sophia nodded. Little Beatrice was closest to Hana, and carefully she took the little bundle, utterly entranced. Bastien took Theodore, making soothing noises as they awkwardly changed over.

‘Can we take them out to the waiting room?’ he asked ‘We’ll come straight back in when you’re ready’

‘Yes, but don’t hand them around’ the midwife answered. ‘New babies are still developing their immune systems, so the less contact with other people outside the family the better’

‘Take care’ Sophia urged ‘I’m not going anywhere’

‘We’ll be back soon, theà mou’ Bastien promised, and he and Hana walked out to the waiting room with his new family.@sirbeepsalot @fluffyfirewhiskey​ @dcbbw​ @kingliam2019​ @katedrakeohd​ @texaskitten30​

[khoicesbyk]

The Royal Romance.

Second Chance Romance.

A/N: I’ve decided to go into my own little TRR/TRH world and create an AU. This will be fun! So; Talley Ho! *in my Sherlock Holmes voice*

Rated: Explicit. | Contains sexual content and strong language. (You know? The usual from me. 😁) | Bolded and/or italicized words are conversations and thoughts of the characters. | Main Characters: Leo Rys and Hana Lee | All Characters and names: (except MC and certain original characters, created by me) are property of Pixelberry.

Current Word Count: 2,000 words. (more or less. I stop counting after editing and re-editing. 🤷🏾‍♀️)

Prompt Time! Using @wackydrabbles prompt 70: “Not everything is a joke.” It will be in bold in black.

Tag List: @lifeaskim @texaskitten30 @glaimtruelovealways @kingliam2019 @txemrn @pixie88 @choicesfannatalie @lucy-268 @bebepac @choicesficwriterscreations @wackydrabbles

I AM UNAPOLOGETICALLY NSFW! READER DISCRETION IS STRONGLY!

If you’d like to be added to my tag list. Just reblog or DM me and I will gladly add you! 😁😘

This is a fun side story that I decided to write. I hope you enjoy the pairing.

Chapter 12.) About Last Night.

Leo Rys has always done his own thing and lived life by his own rules. He enjoys the freedom to go where he wants, when he wants and for however long he wants. With him no longer Crown Prince of Cordonia, he wasn’t beholden to the responsibility, commitment and weight that the crown carries. To him, that life was more a living nightmare than a dream come true.

Having the lives of Cordonia and all her people in his hands scared him. Which is why he told his father that the crown should go to his younger brother, Marquise. Marquise would be a far better king than Leo could ever hope to be. And he was right.

No matter where his new nomadic life took him, Leo always made sure to come home from time to time. Especially when there was a ball or party being thrown. Like the party for the debut of his soon to be sister in law, Duchess Shanelle Dawkins of Volterias.

The party was great. The drinks were flowing like a river. The people were mixing and mingling. And the dancing was on point. But the best part about the night is that he was home. Even though he was no longer Crown Prince, Cordonia is still in his heart and is still home. And he is home to celebrate his brother and future sister in law.

But that night wouldn’t go the way he’d plan it to go.

After catching up with old friends, rivals and several old flames, Leo was sitting at the bar going on his third whiskey neat, when he saw Hana. She was being tortured by Ambassador Kennett and his endless yapping. Whether it was about politics or worse his penchant for golfing, fishing, hunting or his vintage 1956 Roadster, the man NEVER knows when to shut up. So he had to rescue her from him.

He Interrupted their conversation and successfully saved her from a fate worse than death. And to make sure that they weren’t followed by the ambassador, he took her out on the dance floor. It might’ve been the alcohol in his system but, he noticed how petite and pretty she was. And that she was blushing.

“Maybe she…nah I’m not her type.” He thought to himself as they danced.

After dancing to song after song, Hana’s were getting sore so he suggested that they take a break and go for a walk. When she agreed to a walk, they took a stroll to his favorite side courtyard in the whole palace. It was one designed by Marquise’s mother Eleanor. She would sneak him and Marquise out of their lessons, just to spend time with them there. So it’s always been one of his favorite places to go to.

They sat down on a bench and talked about what their lives were like growing up. What they saw themselves doing in 10-20 years. And what his favorite destinations to visit were. And for her, he was something she never expected. He’s funny. He’s got a great smile. She loved his soft baby blue eyes. And he’s quite the accomplished dancer. She had never had a crush on someone but she felt like she was developing a crush on him.

“How about another drink?” He asks her.

“Haven’t you had enough to drink Leo?” She asked with a teasing smirk.

“Nooooo! Besides I got this killer bottle of tequila that I got in Guadalajara back in my room, that I’m dying to open. Soooo…pretty please?” He asks her, while batting his eyelashes. It made her giggle when he asked.

“Okay. I’m curious about this bottle you have.” She replies.

“Sweet! Follow me m’lady.” He says as he offers her his arm. When they got to his room, Hana was impressed by the size.

“You got one of the bigger rooms in the palace!” She says to him.

“Perks of being part of The Royal Family. I still get to be spoiled even though I abdicated the throne. Dad made sure that I got my favorite bedroom.”

“I’m glad that you and him are close.”

He sat down on the bench at the end of his bed before he spoke.

“Ohhh yeah. He was more disappointed than angry about me abdicating. He was hoping that me becoming king would mellow me out. But if anything it made me hate the throne even more. Which is why I don’t envy my younger brother. He bears the weight of an entire nation. Their expectations, their fears, their anger, their frustration and especially their judgement. I didn’t want that life for myself. I saw what it did to my dad. How it changed him. Made his paranoia even worse than it was before mom’s death.”

“So that’s why you left?” She asks as she sits next to him.

“Yes. Because, I was never meant to be a king. It wasn’t in my heart nor was it something that I wanted to do. I have a temper. Marquise has temperament. He always wanted the throne but, because of hierarchy and the rules behind it, the throne went to me. And believe me Hana, it wasn’t an easy nor overnight decision for me to come to. I knew I’d be disappointing my dad and leaving Marquise to bear the unbearable burden of the crown, but I just knew I’d never be the king that Cordonia desperately needed.” He replied.

Talking to her made him face some of the demons he’d been running from.

“Thank you for sharing that with me, Leo.”

“Nah. It’s the alcohol. My dad calls it my truth serum. Speaking of which! We got a bottle to open!”

He got up and walked to his suitcase and pulled out a bottle of golden tequila.

“May I introduce to you the finest tequila in all the lands? This is Dioses del sol y de la tierra. It is the best tequila I have ever had!” He said as he introduced her to the bottle.

She just shook her head and giggled.

“Let the shots begin m’lady!”

They drank, danced and laughed together. Hana wasn’t like Madeleine. She was a nightmarish robot who was after the crown. She was pure, wholesome, beautiful and sweet. And an absolute joy to be around. Especially when she was drunk.

“I have never had this much fun ever!” She drunkenly squealed.

“I sure have! I have it all the time!” He said to her.

“Of course you have! You’re freeeeee!”

“You gotta try it sweetheart! Freedom is the best medicine for the soooouuuul!”

Hana took a swig from the bottle then spun around but lost her footing and would’ve fallen if Leo hadn’t caught her.

“Whoa! Noble lady overboard!” He said as he caught her.

“Wheeeeeeeeee!” Hana said with a giggle.

With the bottle finally gone, the pair were sitting on his bed giggling at each other.

“Oh my God! Leo! This was soooooo much fun!”

“Yeah I know. We gotta do it again the next time I come home!”

They started laughing at each other again.

“Has anyone ever told you that you’re very very handsome?” She asked him.

“Not really. The ladies usually go for my brother.” He replies.

“Well I think you’re really handsome.”

“That’s the tequila talking. But it’s a good joke.”

“Not everything is a joke, Leo.”

“You’re serious?” He asks her. She nodded her head yes.

“Ohhh…so if I kissed you, you wouldn’t be mad?” He asked. She shook her head no.

“Ohhh well in that case…” he trailed off before kissing her. The kiss was sloppy at first but got hot and heavy fast. When the kiss came to an end, they were breathless.

“Woooooow!” He said to her.

“Was it bad?” She asked.

“Hell no! As a matter of fact, I’d like to do it again.”

“Fine by me.”

He pulled her into his lap as he kissed her again. Her skin was smooth. Her lips are soft and supple. She tasted like tequila. Not that he was complaining about it. There was something about Hana that he couldn’t get enough of. With his arms around her petite frame he deepened their kiss. One thing is for sure, Leo is no slouch when it comes to kissing. He broke their kiss to look in her eyes.

“I’m sorry, Hana. I shouldn’t have done that.” He said to her.

“No you shouldn’t have. But I’m glad you did.” She replies. Every ounce of shyness Hana had was replaced with lust thanks to all the drinking they were doing.

“Is this about to go where I think it is?” He asks her.

“I wouldn’t mind.” She replied.

With that he kissed her again, harder and deeper than before. They were blissfully drunk and horny for one another. He trailed kisses from her jaw to her neck. Eliciting a sound that was a mix of soft moan and a gasp. They made quick work of getting each other out of their clothes. She was beautiful to him and he was hot to her.

He resumed kissing her neck with his hands all over her. When his hands reached her nipples, he ran his thumbs over them making them harden under his touch. She couldn’t help but moan when he touched her. He kept rubbing her nipples and sucking on her neck He let one hand travel lower between her legs. When he reached her center, she was warm. But he was about to make her hot.

He began using his fingers to circle her clit and play with her entrance. The sensation was causing her to grind against his fingers. He wanted her soaking wet for him. Thankfully it didn’t take long for that to happen. When she wanted more, she groaned impatiently.

“I guess that means you want more.” He whispered in her ear.

“Yes! Yes!” She moaned.

He took that as a cue then grabbed a condom out of his wallet and put it on. When he turned back to look at Hana, he was in awe. She really was beautiful naked. She bit her bottom lip as she looked at him. With a crook of her finger she beckoned him to her. With a sly grin he went to her. He climbed on top of her with lust in his eyes and a question on his lips.

“Are you ready?” He asks.

“Hell yeah!” She replied.

She didn’t know what to expect when it came to sex with Leo. But if anything she wasn’t expecting him to be big. But when he entered her, she found out that she was wrong. He was well endowed. He went slow to allow her muscles to get used to him being inside her. She moaned impatiently because she wanted him to fuck her.

Taking that as another cue from her, Leo found his groove and began to really fuck her. Every thrust from him was fast and hard. He was going deep inside then coming almost all the way out, just to slam back into her. Her moans, groans, cries of pleasure, shrieks and whimpers were fuel to him so he would keep going.

He had one hand on the headboard behind her to steady himself and the other rubbing her clit. He wants her to explode with him. The stimulation from him sent her over the edge and crashing into her orgasm. Feeling her muscles squeeze his length sent him to the moon. He emptied himself into the condom then passed out with her.

When Leo woke up later, he was hungover and pretty sure he’d just had in a weird dream that involved him and sex with Hana. The dream became reality, when he saw the empty tequila bottle and the used condom. That’s when he looked over and saw Hana passed out next to him.

“Oh shit! This is VERY bad!” He muttered, before grabbing his phone and texting the person he knew to text: His brother Marquise.

[cordonian-literature]

The Aftermath - Ch. 8

The Day Before the Tea Ceremony

Summary: After five years, Hana returns to Cordonia

Word Count: ~3.1k

Warning: Mention of depression

*All characters belong to Pixelberry, except those that are unique to my story (I’ve also used some characters and fictional instances from Donna Tartt’s “The Goldfinch”)*

Catch up here!

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- Hana - 

Very soon, waking up in the mornings became a challenge. At first, it was her body that refused to obey her alarm clock. Then, Hana simply accepted it and would wake up by herself around half past eight — almost two hours later than she had been trained to start her day.

This morning was particularly difficult. She had silently cried herself to sleep the night before, and the tears had yet to disappear from her cheeks, nor was her pillow dry. The air was thick as it went into her lungs, though when she opened the window, a delicate breeze embraced her, flowing through her hair and fingers. She could feel the hint of the approaching summer through the signs of the persistent cold.

The dent on the other side of the mattress told Hana that her husband had been awake for hours. She didn’t care. Before Neville used to yell at her and say that it was improper for her to sleep in (“Does not a lady of your status have better things to do than lay around like a pathetic commoner with nothing better to do?” he would shout at her during breakfast). Eventually he stopped, but he would still give her cold looks if he knew that she had been in bed longer than eight hours.

He added to the difficulty of waking up, and Hana suspected that one day she would be too weak to get out of bed entirely.

Today should be better than other days, she told herself as she went to reach for a dress in her closet. Mother and Father are here. There are still a few days left in their visit. Perhaps Mother would want to spend some time with me?

Every step down the stairs and towards the breakfast table increased her level of anxiety. That was nothing new; it was all a part of her daily routine. As was the sound of her heart hammering in her ears. Next was the sight of Neville’s atrocious side-profile. Xinghai and Lorelai were laughing at something Hana had not heard, but she knew that it wasn’t remotely funny — nothing Neville says is ever funny. Her parents greet her, and Neville spares her a glance and says, “Is that the same dress from yesterday morning?”

The room falls into silence.

“You’ve a letter, Hana,” Lorelai informs her as her daughter sits down.

A cream colored envelope with their address smoothly written sits in front of her.

“I hope it is not from that Beaumont boy again,” Neville comments.

“Well I don’t think there’s anything wrong with friendly correspondence,” Xinghai begins.

“I beg to differ, sir,” Neville starts. “It would be best if you saw it from my perspective. An unmarried lord sending monthly letters to my wife asking her to return to Cordonia. That is highly improper. I would ask him directly to respect the difference between my own status and his, but Hana says there is no need apparently.” He scoffs.

All he asks is for me to come and help find Lady Riley, she wants to say. He writes about His Majesty’s depression. Lord Maxwell requests that I come to help him cheer everyone up. Not to worry though, I would never willingly go back without Lady Riley, because without her I am alone, just as I have been everyday for the past decade.

Hana flips the envelope over, expecting to see the Beaumont Family Seal, but instead comes face-to-face with the Royal Seal.

Everyone at the table stares down at what is in Hana’s hands.

“A royal invitation?” Lorelai cries.

Of course Liam would do this, Hana thinks to herself. I had told him that I didn’t want to return. He knew pestering me over the phone wouldn’t work, so instead he sends an invitation, knowing that Neville would see it and would accept it on my behalf.

Hana opens the envelope, taking out the letter and reads the contents aloud.

“Dear Earl Cormery and Countess Cormery,

The honor of your presence is requested by the Queen Mother at the Annual Cordonian Tea Ceremony on the evening of May 24th.”

“Goodness!” Lorelai exclaims. “From the Queen Mother herself?”

“Ah, what terrible timing!” Neville cries, snatching the invitation from Hana. “I’ve an important financial project that requires my attention in London. I planned to leave this evening.”

“Oh,” Hana looks down at her empty hands. “You… you never told me.”

“Didn’t I?” Neville does not look up from the letter. “Perhaps I forgot about it. Forgive me, dear, you know how busy I am.”

She nods, but cannot hide the sorrow on her face.

“Well, Neville,” Lorelai says. “If you are indisposed and do not plan on bringing Hana with you, then it seems as though she is free to attend the ceremony.”

“Perhaps… but what will she say when her husband is absent?” Neville argues.

Xinghai chuckles. “The truth, of course. That you are away on an important financial project and could not attend.”

After a few seconds in which Neville does not respond, Lorelai speaks up and says, “Wonderful, then. Hana, I will help you pack later tonight.”

No thank you, Mother, she wants to say. I do not wish to return to Cordonia. There are too many painful and empty memories. My life already consists of lonely, aching days. Please do not subject me to more.

“Yes, all good.” Neville tucks the paper into his breast pocket. Hana hoped that he would reject the idea. But since her mother suggested it and he has allowed it, there was no chance of her getting out of it. “Now, how much longer until we are served? Staff! I demand to know what is taking so long! If we are not served our breakfast within the next five minutes, by the end of today you will all be left unemployed!”

...

Neville left for London before dinner and did not say goodbye. Lorelai reprimanded Hana for being so distant with her husband, saying that the hard work in securing a marriage doesn’t end after the wedding. Hana had excused herself to go and pack without her mother.

She took the earliest flight to Cordonia, and was in the capital right before noon. She walked into the palace, where she showed her invitation to a servant and was led towards her room.

On her way up the stairs, she bumps into Olivia.

“Hana?” she exclaims. “What are you doing here?”

“Olivia! It’s been so long!” Hana leaves her bags and goes to hug Olivia — who does not hug her back — overcome at the sight of a somewhat friendly face. “I was invited to the tea ceremony tomorrow. Did you receive and invitation as well?”

“No, actually. I’m here on business.”

“Oh, well, sorry to bother you. Do you know if His Majesty will be attending? Or… Maxwell?”

Olivia frowns a little. “Liam and Drake are in New York,” she tells Hana. “As are the Beaumonts… didn’t they tell you?”

Her face falls. “No. After I left, I severed communications with them... for the most part, at least. I only answered His Majesty’s phone calls, which were rare….”

“So… you don’t know anything about Riley’s condition? Liam told me that he was going to tell you and Maxwell.”

Hana’s eyes go wide. “What about Riley?”

“She—.”

“Lady Hana is that you?!” calls a voice. Hana turns to see Madeleine walking towards them, with an unfamiliar cheer in her tone. “It is wonderful to see you back at court! And Lady Olivia….”

“Yes, Maddy, it’s always a pleasure to see you.” Olivia rolls her eyes.

Madeleine puts an arm on Hana’s shoulder. “How is the Earl?”

“He is well,” Hana manages to say, and is glad that Madeleine doesn’t ask more about him.

“I’m glad.” She glances down at the watch on her wrist. “Now if you two will excuse me, I’m on my way for lunch with the Queen Mother.” Madeleine regards Hana for a moment. “Would you like to join, Hana?”

She agrees before she even realizes that she doesn’t even want to go. “And… perhaps Olivia can join us?” Hana was itching to know more about Riley’s condition. Olivia had a tendency to vanish and re-emerge when it suited her, but Hana was not going to let Olivia get away. She had information about Riley.

Madeleine sighs. “I suppose.”

Hana gives her luggage to the servant as her and Olivia follow Madeleine down the hall.

“Don’t worry, Maddy,” Olivia comments. “I hate your presence almost as much as you hate mine.”

“Oh, I assure you—,” Madeleine begins, but they’ve already reached the dinning hall, and the Queen Mother is already seated.

“Lady Hana” she exclaims. “A pleasure to see you. And I see Lady Olivia has also arrived for the ceremony tomorrow.”

“Yes, ma’am,” Olivia says, but Hana wonders what business Olivia was talking about before.

Each of the ladies takes a seat as servants serve them plates of different fruits, breads, and meat. Hana is reluctant to eat; she barley eats at home, but could not sit in front of her plate aimlessly in front of the Queen Mother. She takes small bites and manages to force herself through the meal.

“I imagine that King Liam will be attending the ceremony tomorrow?” Olivia asks, not looking up from her meal.

I thought Olivia said that Liam was in New York? Why is she asking the Queen Mother of his whereabouts when she already knows where he is?

“Unfortunately His Majesty will not be attending,” Regina responds. “He’s away on business.”

“Oh?” Madeleine remarks. “I do hope the issue with the Spanish ambassador goes through. If not, King Liam risks looking desperate and the entire ordeal could shed a negative light on Cordonia.”

“The ambassador had to return to his country due to a personal issue,” Regina states, then goes back to her food.

Both Olivia and Madeleine look expectantly over at Regina, but she continues eating and acts as if she doesn’t notice the ladies’ eyes on her.

“Then… what else keeps His Majesty from being in attendance?” Olivia questions carefully.

Hana shoots her a look. Why does she keep asking questions she already has the answers to?

“He is abroad, I believe.” Regina answers apathetically.

“Do you not know where he is, ma’am?” Madeleine looks up from her food.

Regina chuckles. She takes a sip of her wine and says, “Oh, I know where he is. The king is in New York.”

Madeleine gently puts down her fork. “Ma’am I believe it would best if you advised His Majesty that taking too many trips to America sends quite a scandalous message to the press.”

“Scandalous?” Hana asks.

“They remember Lady Riley and his relationship with her. She was from New York, and his constant visits have led the press to believe that he is having an affair with her!”

The Queen Mother scoffs, taking another sip of her wine.

“We all know that’s utter nonsense, Maddy,” Olivia says. “Lady Riley disappeared after he ended his engagement to you. Don’t you remember? That was one public incident that you couldn’t twist in your favor.”

Madeleine stares back at Olivia. “Incident isn’t what I would call it—.”

“Please, Lady Olivia,” Regina interrupts. “None of that was Countess Madeleine’s fault or even His Majesty’s fault. Lady Riley is the one to blame. I remember that silly investigation she led with Drake Walker and Lord Beaumont. But in the end it amounted to nothing.” She scoffs again. “She knew all along that court life would be too much for her, and with everything that happened to her with that Tariq fellow, it was simply proved that she was not fit for such a life.”

How undiplomatic, Hana thinks. She wouldn’t say that in front of Liam. He would forbid her from speaking about Lady Riley like that.

“Yes,” Madeleine comments, going back to her food. “I tried to warn her of it in the beginning, but she was so… stubborn. No wonder she ended up in such a situation.”

Hana doesn’t understand why Olivia keeps quiet. They share a look. Hana wishes she had the energy to defend Riley, but deep in her heart, Hana is still angry with her best friend. Riley had motivated Hana to choose a life beyond her parents’ expectations. Once she had disappeared, Hana could only hold off her parents by herself for so long.

“I’ve done the best I can for my country,” Regina comments after another few bites of her food. “Of course, I’ve never done anything as controversial as my late husband, but I’ve… done my best to refocus the king’s attention and efforts.”

“Even without a queen, His Majesty has done a wonderful job—,” Madeleine begins.

“Yes, yes,” Regina waves Madeleine’s words away. “He’s done his duty to his people in the sense that he has provided for them and helped them thrive, but he has not secured his throne. Stability….” She trials off.

“I am sure King Liam is doing the best he can,” Olivia begins. “Simply because he does not wish to focus on finding a queen—.”

“Simply because he does not wish to focus on finding a queen doesn’t mean that he has to chase after a disappeared waitress!” Regina exclaims.

The ladies say nothing, and Regina goes for another sip of her wine.

“I’ve done my best to steer him away from her,” she begins again. “But he does not listen to me. I managed once to deter her away from him, and that seemed to have worked for the past eight years. Now he’s after her again.” She calls for a servant to refill her glass.

“You mean to say that he is in New York for Lady Riley as we speak?” Madeleine asks, and Hana notices an irritation in her eyes.

“What do you mean you deterred Lady Riley?” Olivia asks.

The Queen Mother looks towards Olivia and chuckles, ignoring Madeleine’s question.

“If you do not know what I am referring to, then that means that I succeed.” She turns back towards her plate. “She attempted to attend the Duke of Ramsford’s wedding. I saw her at the entrance. In a disguise of all things! I had my guards take her aside and I spoke with her. She said she needed to speak to His Majesty about something important.” Regina scoffs again and frowns. “The audacity of the girl… I noticed a wedding band on her finger, told her that all she had done for Cordonia was put it on a path towards ruin. She had corrupted King Liam’s heart, and her next aim clearly was to corrupt the monarchy… to taint it with another scandal. I had my guards escort her to the airport, and I made sure that there was no chance Liam saw her.”

Riley’s married? Hana wonders. Her heart aches.

“The press labeled her as a crown-chaser once,” Madeleine comments, a smirk on her face.

Regina turns to her niece and laughs. “Perhaps during the social season it did not seem so. But imagine that… she came back for Liam as a married woman. Merely to break his heart even further.”

“Did you know what she wished to speak to him about?” Olivia asks.

“No,” Regina states, deep in thought. “It may have been something she believed was of great consequence, since she came halfway across the world to tell him. I believe it is for the best, though, that she never told Liam. Whatever she had to say would have made him stray further from being a responsible king.”

“But if she never told you what the topic was, then how did it become something for you to decide whether it was crucial enough for his attention?” Olivia frowns at the Queen Mother, who is taken aback.

“I hope I am mistaken, Lady Olivia,” Regina starts, glaring at her, “that you wish to side with Lady Riley, who has done no good for Cordonia or her king?”

“I think,” Hana jumps in, “that Lady Olivia means that if Lady Riley is what makes His Majesty happy, then allowing their relationship would have allowed him to refocus more effectively.”

“If Lady Riley and His Majesty were allowed to continue their relationship,” Madeleine focuses her words towards Hana. “Then afterwards his efforts would be towards keeping Cordonia from international scorn.”

“You know, Maddy,” Olivia takes another bite of her salad. “You always did have a hard time hiding your jealousy.”

“Excuse you?” Madeleine spits.

“Enough!” Regina throws her fork onto the plate. “This has been a very stressful meal for me. I shall go rest in my quarters. Madeleine, walk with me?”

“Of course, ma’am,” Madeleine offers the Queen Mother her arm, helping her get up and walk out of the room.

When they’re out of sight, Olivia puts her head in her hands.

“Poor Riley and Liam,” Hana says. “There’s always someone working against their happily ever after.”

Olivia leans back in her seat, and Hana watches her.

“Do you have an idea of what Riley wanted to tell Liam?” she asks.

Olivia sighs. “Yes, actually, I do.”

“What was it?”

Olivia looks around the room. “This wouldn’t be the best place to speak about it. Perhaps we can go to Lythikos after the ceremony tomorrow, and I can tell you all I know.”

Hana had booked a flight back home the morning after the ceremony. A part of her told her to refuse Olivia’s offer, but another part, the stronger part, told her that this was something that could bring her one step closer to happiness — something that was dreadfully lacking in her life. Hana knew a little excitement would do her health some good. She could call Neville and tell him that she was staying for a few more days. Hana knew he wouldn’t care, though, and for the first time she’s glad for his lack of concern for her. “That would be lovely,” Hana states.

They stand and go their separate ways for the evening. Though Hana is a little less upset that her group of friends never told her about Riley, she still wants to cry in pity for herself. For Liam. For Drake. For Maxwell. For Riley.

If they’re already with Riley, then I’m the only one missing. Wasn’t I helpful during the Engagement Tour? Don’t they want my help or my company? Have they given up on me? Of course they have. In their time of need, I left them alone. What a terrible friend I was. It’s just like Neville said, that my pathetic demeanor would bury me in a life of miserable rejection. I guess I only have myself to blame for all of it. What a terrible friend I am.

[msjr0119]

End Game

Prologue

This series was requested by my best friend- she took advantage whilst I was drunk months ago 🥴🤣 thank you for designing the moodboard 👍🏼

“Series Request of Riley x Liam based around the song End Game - Taylor Swift ft Future and Ed Sheeran - where Liam is jealous of Riley and Drake spending time together and questions her because he thinks something is going on with them, but nothing is, and he feels he has a right to be jealous even though he’s engaged to Maddy ���”

Book: The Royal Romance (Book 2)

Pairings: Liam x Riley, Drake x Riley, Liam x Madeleine

Song inspiration: End Game, Taylor Swift Ft Future and Ed Sheeran

Warnings: Swearing, jealousy.

Word Count: 1252

Tags- I wasn’t sure who to tag, if you want to be removed/added let me know.

@pedudley @kacie-0156 @loveellamae @annekebbphotography @kingliam2019 @kimmiedoo5 @queenjilian @texaskitten30 @lodberg @rafasgirl23415 @cmestrella @desireepow-1986 @ravenpuff02 @ladyangel70 @bascmve01 @hopefulmoonobject @axwalker @cordonianroyalty

*****

I choose Lady Riley. I’ve always known that my choice was her - ever since she unexpectedly showed up at the masquerade ball. That night we met in New York, there was an immediate attraction towards her- she isn’t noble but she was free spirited. She was different- in a positive way. She’s beautiful, I have never believed in love at first sight until that night of my bachelor party.

I choose Lady Riley.

Spending time with her alone- proved difficult during my social season. But I was determined to prove how much she meant to me, whilst also playing fair with the other suitors. Luckily she was understanding about this. Or so I assume. Every time she smiled, my heart filled with joy. I just wanted to claim her as mine there and then.

I choose Lady Riley.

Riley, the girl who wasn’t bothered about; Olivia’s abrupt attitude, Madeleines snarky and bitchy comments, Kiara talking in French all the time, Penelope unable to prevent herself from talking about poodles constantly. This woman. I want her, no I need her to be my Queen. She’s told me herself she loves me. What’s stopping us?

“I choose.... Lady Madeleine.”

Those words still haunt me, seeing the love of my life dragged out of the Coronation ball due to something that wasn’t her fault. Have I lost her good? Quite possibly. Why did I listen to my father and Regina? Why didn’t I follow my heart?

Now she is back, or so I’ve heard. I am grateful for the Beaumont’s persuading for her to return. Even with the fake scandal hovering over her. Will she give me the time of day? Allow myself to explain my reasoning for everything. I know Riley, she is strong. Stronger than anyone I’ve ever met.

My thoughts seem to drift towards Drake Walker. My best friend. Thinking back to my social season, a smile always seemed to creep up onto his face every time he was with her. I noticed them sneaking off together every so often. They didn’t realise that I was watching them- but I was, and will continue to. Why am I jealous? I shouldn’t be. But I can’t help it. I’m engaged to Countess Madeleine, the most ludicrous decision that I have ever made in my lifetime. Riley is close to all the friends that she has made here, Drake was horrendous to her at the beginning. I have an inkling that Drake may have strong feelings for with his reactions after the disastrous ball. Brooks. Why does he call her that? Have I lost her to my best friend? Is the surname nickname a little morse code for his feelings towards her? I need to end this engagement promptly and win my love back.

*****

I wouldn’t blame you if you’re furious with me, but please meet me so I can at least explain. I’ll be on the balcony outside my room in twenty minutes.

I know that she will receive this letter. I know that she will most likely read it. How she will react is unknown. When I first saw her, she was very abrupt - explaining how she hasn’t forgiven me. Not that I was presumptuous as to think that she would. I grit my teeth as Madeleine placed her hand on my arm as I needed to tell Riley that we should talk. Then Madeleine had the nerve to kiss me. I watched as Riley’s lip trembled, she must have known what I needed to tell her- Maxwell looped his arm through hers and tore her away, out of my view. Maybe he could have foreseen her becoming upset. After all, out of everybody he has spent the most time with her. Civilly she explained that it was nice seeing both myself and the countess.

Deep down in my heart I hope that she will somehow sneak away and meet me. I begin pacing the floor of the balcony- wondering whether or not if I’m wasting my time. Would I blame her if she didn’t show up? Of course I wouldn’t. After a while, I decide to lean over the balcony- staring off into the distance.

“Made it!” Hearing a mumbled voice due to wind, I didn’t look from where it came from. My heart filled with joy. Assuming she had slightly forgiven me. Baby steps.

“Riley?”

“Do I really sound like little blossom? I think after that jump- you can call me spidey!” Turning around, I tried to hide the disappointment of one of my closest friends being here instead.

“Sorry, Max. I assume that she is avoiding me?”

“Yeah. Sort of. Listen, Li. She’s heartbroken. She misses you like crazy. She just doesn’t understand why everything happened the way it did. Tonight was her first night back- in time, maybe she will talk with you?”

“Where is she? I need to see her. I know I’m risking her safety- if I’m with you hopefully no one will question it. I need her Max, without her my life is dull....”

“Erm.... As she quoted “I need to see someone else who I trust. I know neither you nor this person would break my heart. I need to see Drake before talking to Liam’..” Maxwell looked at me with sorrow in his eyes as he bit his lip when reiterating what she said. I swallowed hard, before fixing my stoic expression.

“Of course, she would want to see him. If Lady Hana was here I’d assume she would want to see her too. But Drake isn’t here...”

“We went for some fresh air. For some reason he was in the courtyard- she ran up to him. He explained that he wasn’t going to come until tomorrow. That’s when I came here, as I left I did hear him explain that you take her safety very seriously as we all do.”

What are they doing now? Is he sweeping her into his arms? I wish she was in my arms. Why him? Why my best friend, who hates her? Does he actually hate her? She trusted me, but I’ve lost that now. I’ve broken her. How will I ever get her to regain my trust?

“Li? Are you okay?”

“Yes. Of course I am, Lord Maxwell. I just really miss her. I love her. So much, it fucking hurts.”

“Tomorrow will be a better day my friend... I’ll talk to her.” I hope so. I really hope so, is it too late to abdicate? Is it too late to marry for love? I laughed to myself inside knowing that this wasn’t an option. Not to someone like myself anyway.

****

Maxwell could see how heartbroken Liam was. Thinking back to their time growing up together, he had never seen him this emotional before. The only possible time was when his mother had lost her life, far too soon. Before heading to his room, he decided to check in on Riley- just to make sure that she was handling things better than she was during her few weeks in Ramsford. As he was about to knock on the door- he heard Drakes voice.

Brooks you know how I feel about you.

Slowly opening the door, he witnessed Riley hug Drake tightly. Retrieving his phone, he ran to his room. Pick up, Li. Pick up. Please. No answer. Great!

Removing the stray twigs out of his hair, he decided to focus his mind on gaining some sleep after he had sent a text.

Li, we need to talk. You need to end this engagement pronto! Don’t ask any questions- please just do it ASAP! Maxi

[anxiousdepressedintrovert]

Horizons

The ride to Alexandrine’s estate was a long one. The close-knit suburban state of Andridge gave way to pastures of sheep and fields of raspberries. “Andridge is known for excellent wool and the best raspberries in the world.” Alex said, pride in her voice.

“I thought you were all about oranges here?” Madeleine quipped

“Of course not!” Alex exclaimed “Cordonia has much more to offer besides delicious apples, yes? The duchy I will inherit, Kayad, as well as the county I preside over, Dankamp, currently produce much of Auvernal’s citrus, as well as plums.” She leaned forward “They make for an excellent plum wine.”

Hana giggled “Lex, you can talk about plums later.”

“Sorry, anyway…Dame Klara, she’ll be Baroness Dominese, her family breeds and tends to the Auvernese Thoroughbred. One of the fastest horses in the world.”

“Impressive list but is there anything actually interesting here?” Olivia asked turning from the window.

“Lex! You forgot about the falcons!” Hana grinned, clapping her hands together.

Maxwell perked up “Falcons?”

“Yes, the royal family keeps mews with falcons and other raptors.” Alex explained “Other nobles and commoners who can afford them do as well. I’m sure Flor-I mean, Her Majesty would be thrilled to show you.” Alex matched Maxwell’s grin

“Oh, just call her by her name,” Riley said bouncing Ellie on her lap making the child squeal with glee “It’s so obvious you, Dame Gerard and the Queen are super close.”

Alex smiled sheepishly “Yes, Klara, Flori and I grew up together. It was…an experience.”

“What do you mean?” Drake asked

“Well, Floriana is the daughter of the second queen. She and Isabella are only half-sisters. Isabella was…temperamental.”

Olivia snorted “What a kind way to put it.”

“Flori grew up at Andridge Manor as a result of that. I-I shouldn’t be talking about this.” Alex cleared her throat, “Look, we’ve arrived.” Alex pointed out of the window to a sprawling estate.

“Oh, it’s beautiful!” Riley said looking at the grounds.

Alex beamed at the compliment “Thank you. Shall we head inside?”

Shortly after departing the limo, the group entered Dankamp Manor. Staff scurried around the halls, all of them carrying some form of decoration.

“Are you having a party?” Liam asked, taking Eleanor from Riley

Alex smiled as a few servants waved to her “Oh, we’re hosting the reception for the Coronation here.”

“Not at the palace?” Madeleine raised an eyebrow

“No, the palace is currently under construction. Flori didn’t want to begin her reign in a place that held so much pain. Now, let’s get you squared away in your rooms.” Alex clapped her hands “JOSIF!”

A tall wiry man appeared at Alex’s side “Yes, Lady Alexandrine?” his long pale face and slow speech reminded Riley of Lurch from The Addams Family.

“Josif, please escort my guests to the rooms I informed you about.”

“Lady Lee in her usual room, I presume?” Josif raised a thin white eyebrow

“Yes. Thank you.”

Josif bowed, and turned to the Cordonians “Please follow me.”

Josif guided the group up the main stairs and down the hall before stopping. “Lady Hana, The Purser Room.”

“Thank you Josif.”

“Of course. Dinner will be served at 6.” Josif escorted the rest of them to their rooms.

Drake was next to Hana in the Griffin room, Maxwell next to him in the Miyamoto room, Olivia next to him in the Vermillion room and Madeleine was further down the hall in the Viridescent Room.

“What about Riley and Liam? Surely you have some place for your most honored guests?!” Madeleine glared at Josif but the man didn’t even flinch.

“Of course. Their Majesties will be staying in the cottage connected to the manor. Lady Alexandrine ordered this. If you have a problem, Countess Amaranth, please take it up with her.” Josif’s words were precise and final. He did not tower over Madeleine but there was no doubt he was an intimidating man, despite his thin stature.

Josif turned to Liam and Riley, “If you please, I will escort you to the Wilbraham Cottage.” Leaving Madeleine stunned and Drake holding in his laughter.

They followed Josif down a series of hallways to an ornate door. Josif faced them, “Wilbraham is equipped with a master suite, full kitchen, a secondary bedroom, living quarters, outdoor seating, and a study. If you wish to dine in your quarters at any period during your stay, simply call the number listed by the phone and a servant will attend to you. The secondary room has been set up as a nursery for Princess Eleanor.”

Ellie cooed at her name, reaching out to grab Josif’s finger. The man smiled slightly. “Should the room be unsatisfactory to you, please call the number I mentioned before and request any changes.”

“What if we wanted, like…the same bed she has in Cordonia?” Riley asked mostly joking

“We would have a replica flown in immediately.” Josif said as he turned to open the doors to the cottage.

“I was joking” Riley whispered while Liam laughed, “You should know better than that by now. Royals take hosting very seriously.”

“Clearly.”

Wilbraham Cottage was a beautifully preserved old building with modern finishes on the inside. The study was more of a library with a desk in it. Wall to wall shelving of books. The wooden desk against the window seemed more out of place than the overstuffed arm chair. The roof of the study was entirely stained glass. It caught the sun and made patterns on the floor. Ellie giggled as she crawled on the wood floor attempting to grab the lights.

The bedrooms were equally impressive. Ellie’s room was a soft blue with stars decorating the walls and ceiling. Her crib was much more opulent than the one she had in Cordonia. Gold inlay in the frame, but the mattress was just as soft. And her mobile was of a horse, a crane, a sparrow, and a hawk.

“How-se!” Eleanor clapped her hands in delight

“Oh, do you like your room here Ellie?” Liam asked, nuzzling her face

“Ayeeee!”  Eleanor grabbed his cheek, digging her small nails into his skin

“That bathroom is amazing.” Riley said, emerging from the en-suite of Ellie’s room. “Oh shit, is it time to trim her nails again?”

Liam grinned ruefully at his wife “Yeah, I do believe it is.”

“No!” Eleanor shouted, a gleeful smile on her face

“Oh, our little princess has been saying that a lot.” Riley tapped a finger on her chin “Does Ellie want…a bath?”

“No!” the toddler giggled

“Does Ellie want…kisses?” Riley kissed Liam on the cheek

“No!” a shriek of laughter

“Oh, well then I guess Daddy gets all of Mommy’s kisses.” Riley cupped Liam’s face and leaned in to kiss him

Ellie was not having it “No!” She pushed Liam away with all her tiny strength and grabbed at Riley “Mama!” Her words turned into a near sob. …of crocodile tears

“Oh, it’s ok Ellie.” Riley took Eleanor from Liam and held her, rubbing the child’s back. “Mommy loves both of you. But we’ve gotta trim your nails.” Riley sat down on a chair with Ellie in her lap and Liam crouched in front of them.

“It won’t hurt at all baby.” Liam smiled

Ellie sighed and leaned back into Riley “’K”

     -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Elsewhere, Hana sat on her bed, staring up at Olivia, who looked down at her with an odd expression on her face. “I’m sorry Olivia I’m not sure what it is you’re asking.” Hana put down her composition book to focus on Olivia. The duchess sighed, unsure of herself. It was a feeling she’d very rarely felt. Olivia sat next to Hana and glared at the wall. Hana felt sorry for the El Greco that hung in her sightline.

“Your…friend. The Countess.” Olivia began, her voice terse

“Alex? What about her?”

“Tell me about her.”

Hana wrinkled her brow “I…What do you mean?”

“What information do you have on her?!” Olivia demanded, her cheeks flushing slightly “What kind of flowers she likes, things like that…”

Realization came to Hana suddenly “Olivia…are you interested in Alex?!”  

“Don’t say it like that.”

“Oh my god!” Hana squealed! “You have a crush on Alex?! I have to tell Riley!”

Olivia groaned “Please don’t.” but it was too late Hana already had her phone out and not even two minutes later Riley burst into the room.

“You have a crush on Alex?!” the queen screeched, her chest heaving from having run the distance from the cottage to Hana’s room.

“How on Earth did you get here so fast?” Olivia wondered; her eyes wide

Riley shut the door behind her and sat on the opposite side of Hana “Yeah, cause I’m totally gonna miss Olivia ‘I’ll kill you before admitting I have feelings Nevrakis asking for girl talk!”

Olivia narrowed her eyes “I asked for no such thing.”

Riley and Hana looked at each other and shook their heads “Oh, Olivia, I had a stunted upbringing too and I still know better.” Hana patted her friend’s hand.

“So, you know what that means! Sleepover!” Riley cheered throwing her hands in the air

Olivia frowned “Ancestors help me, what have I gotten myself into?”

Tagged List: @no-one-u-know @texaskitten30 @gardeningourmet

@daisydancer14 @gkittylove99 @harrington-sinclaire

If you want to me added or have changed your name place let me know! Thank you for reading!! 

Master List

[heauxplesslydevoted]

Moments (King Liam x MC)

Summary: Liam and Kendall enjoy the first few moments of their daughter’s life.

A/N: This has been siting on my computer for months now, and with TRH coming out on Friday, I decided I might as well upload it. Again, I’m not subscribing to the fact that my MC will more than likely give birth while trapped in the palace, so I’m retconning it.

Tags: @canknot @akacalliope @drakewalker04 @senseofduties @badchoicesposts @sirbeepsalot @janezillow @hopefulmoonobject @eadanga @texaskitten30

~v~

It’s a peaceful winter evening in Cordonia. Everything outside is quiet, the streets are calm, the sun is setting beautifully, and it almost doesn’t feel real.

King Liam decides it’s a perfect day. Not because of the weather or the sunset, no those are just added incentives. Today is perfect because it’s the day the Her Royal Highness, Victoria Juliette Eleanor, Princess of Cordonia was born. The official announcement hasn’t been made. Liam and Kendall decided that they’d do it first thing in the morning, opting to enjoy those first few hours of their daughter’s life in private.

In the privacy of Kendall’s luxurious maternity suite, Liam marvels at the tiny bundle of joy swaddled in a warm blanket. He reaches into the bassinet and slowly pulls the baby out, careful not to make any noise. The Queen is sleeping, 18 hours of labor having completely exhausted her, and the last thing Liam wants to do is disrupt her peace.

He has a daughter. A beautiful baby girl, a spitting image of her mother. Once she’s securely in his arms, he smiles down at her, a smile so bright and wide, his face might burst. “Hello there, little cub! I’m your daddy, and I am so happy to finally meet you. I’ve been waiting rather impatiently for the last 9 months to have this moment.”

“You look so much like your mother, it’s uncanny,” Liam says. “It’s a good thing, because in my completely biased opinion, she’s the most beautiful woman in all of Cordonia. And you’re the most perfect baby in all of Cordonia, so I consider myself to be a pretty lucky man.”

Liam slowly walks around the room, trying to keep the young princess calm. She’s awake, her bright blue eyes that rival his own slowly adjusting to how bright the world is. “You’ve had a very eventful day. I know this is probably weird for you, being out here. You’re used to a pretty calm, dark, quiet atmosphere in mommy’s tummy and all of a sudden, you’re being thrust into the world, with all of these noises and bright lights. It’s quite a shock.”

“I don’t think there are enough words to describe the joy I’m feeling right now. I didn’t think it was possible to be happier than I was than the day I married your mother, but here we are. When she told me she was pregnant with you, I was on cloud 9. Above everything else, I’ve always wanted to have a family of my own, and your mother gave that to me. She showed me that true love exists and it’s possible for someone in my station to find it. So when you grow up, I want you to always strive for what you want. Never settle for less, okay?”

The baby yawns in reply, earning a small chuckle from Liam. “Am I boring you, princess? I’ll have you know that your mother and I have a very fascinating love story, and I can’t wait to share it with you one day.”

Liam sighs. He’s been up for the past 24 hours straight, and he knows he should be getting some sleep, but he’s just too excited.

“Since you’re up and I’m up, maybe I should tell you a little bit about our lives and about myself. We live in a small country called Cordonia, right off the coast of Greece. I’m the King, and one day you will be the Queen. I know it sounds daunting and at times, I’m sure it will be, but your mother and I will be there to teach you and advise you along the way. But that’s a long time from now, and while it is a great privilege and responsibility, I will never burden you with the weight of the crown. I know all too well what that pressure can do to a person.”

“Your uncle and I didn’t have the luxury of just being children, but I promise that changes with you. If you want to have tea parties with Auntie Hana, go fishing with your Uncle Drake, or have dance parties with Uncle Maxwell, you go right ahead. I welcome it, and I encourage it. I never want you to feel like you’re being stifled.”

“You have so many people who can’t wait to meet you,” Liam continues. “There’s your grandmother Regina, and tons of aunts and uncles. Drake, Olivia, Hana, Leo, Maxwell, Bertrand and Savannah. They also have a baby, so you won’t be the only kid around here. And If your auntie Olivia ever tries to teach you knife throwing or weapon concealment, promise that you’ll tell me or your mommy right away. We told her she’s not allowed to introduce you to weaponry until you’re 16.”

“And there are tons of pets. Chance and Lucky, and their babies already love you dearly. I couldn’t tear them away from your mom while you were still in her tummy. I’m sure you all will be best friends. And there’s also two pandas, and a horse. They live in Valtoria at your mommy’s duchy.”

Liam stares down at the baby again. It still feels surreal, like this is a dream and he’s going to wake up soon. “I love you so much. I don’t know if there are enough ways I can express it. I love you. Te amo. Ti amo. Se agapó. Je t'aime. That’s all the different languages I know how to speak, and it still doesn’t put into words just how much you mean to me. But I’ll gladly learn more.”

They walked around the spacious suite for a few more minutes, Liam alternating between talking to his daughter and just marveling at how precious she is. He’s halfway through telling her about how his ancestor, Queen Valentina went from a scribe to a noblewoman to a queen, when he hears his own queen stirring from her sleep.

“Liam?”

He rushes to her bedside. “Hello, my love. I didn’t wake you, did I?”

“No.” Kendall’s eyes land on the baby and she smiles softly. “Is she sleeping?”

“She’s actually awake. I’ve just been telling her stories about Cordonian history. She’s an excellent listener.” Kendall chuckles and attempts to sit up, wincing slightly as she moves the wrong way. Liam instantly notices the discomfort. “Are you okay?”

“I’m fine, I just moved too quickly.”

Liam places the baby back in her bassinet and moves to his wife’s side. Placing a strong hand on her back, he helps her sit up, propping up pillows to use as support. He also drapes a blanket— a ridiculously expensive thing from Hermès, courtesy of Princess Marguerite — around her shoulders.

Once Kendall is settled into a sitting position, he picks up Victoria again and places her in Kendall’s arms.

“I don’t think I’ve ever seen someone so...perfect.”

“She takes after her mother,” Liam says smoothly, joining his wife and daughter on the bed.

“Forever the charmer.”

“I only speak the truth.”

Kendall stares down at the baby again, fully taking her in. Her perfectly round head, her chubby cheeks, her stunning blue eyes, her dark hair peeking out of her tiny cap. “I think I want to stare at her 24/7 for the rest of my life.”

“We have a country to run, my queen,” Liam teases.

“Once they see how cute she is, the citizens will understand.” Kendall runs a finger along Victoria’s cheek and the baby leans into her mother’s touch. The simple act makes Kendall’s heart thud in her chest and tears prick the corners of her eyes. She’s a mom, this perfect bundle of joy in front of her is her’s. “I love her so much.”

“I love her too.”

Kendall thinks back to the past year and a half that she and Liam have endured. Conspiracies, assassination attempts, kidnappings, and intense alliance negotiations. All of that has brought them here, to this moment. To this serene, wonderful moment. 

“Maybe it’s the hormones, but I feel like crying,” Kendall confesses.

“It’s fine. I’ve been teetering on the verge of crying all day.”

“I just can’t believe she’s finally here. This feels like a dream.” Kendall leans down and kisses Victoria’s forehead. “You are...a site for sore eyes.”

Liam kisses Kendall’s temple, his lips lingering there for a moment. “You were amazing, my love. I can’t thank you enough for bringing Victoria into this world.”

“It was worth it,” Kendall says. “I’d do it all over again for her. All 18 hours.”

“When do you think we should call Madeleine, so she can tell the press?” Liam asks.

“It’s nighttime now,” Kendall replies, softly. “We can call her in the morning.”

“She’s going to be absolutely incensed that we waited a full 24 hours before notifying her.”

Kendall shrugs in nonchalance. Madeleine being upset with her is at the very bottom of her list of priorities. “She’ll just have to be mad then. I don’t care.”

She leans back against Liam’s chest and he wraps an arm around her shoulder. They sit in silence for a while, just soaking in all of the happiness of the moment.

“Kendall?”

Kendall manages to tear her eyes away from Victoria and looks at her husband. “Yes?”

“I love you,” Liam says simply. “I love you so much. You are heaven sent, and you’ve made every single one of my dreams come true.”

The Queen leans forward and gives Liam a soft kiss on the lips. “I love you just as much.”

Victoria makes a tiny noise, and Liam and Kendall look down at her, smiles on their faces. “And we love you too, princess.”

[pug-bitch]

That’s not why I’m staying (7)

Attention must be paid

Book: The Royal Romance, Book 2

Pairing: Drake Walker x Amara Suarez

Rating: some foul language, some extremely suggestive, and a VERY steamy scene. This is absolutely NOT appropriate for people under 18.

Word count: about 4,700

Notes: This picks up pretty much where we left off, starting with Maxwell’s POV.

*****

‘Morning, Maxxie,’ Amara whispers, between two sips of coffee.

Maxwell yawns and nods, all the while pouring himself a big mug. He’s gonna need it. He hasn’t slept much, just in intervals, ever since his interaction with Michael. He plants a peck on Amara’s cheek and sits by her.

She raises an eyebrow. ‘You look like hell, did you sleep at all?’

He dramatically slams his coffee mug on the table. ‘Well, Miss Suarez, this isn’t a nice way of greeting your friend in the early morning.’ He takes a sip. ‘I wish I could reciprocate the compliment but unfortunately, you look glowy as hell.’ He pauses. ‘Must be all the sex.’

Amara blushes and bites her lip. ‘You got me there. I’ll shut up.’

Maxwell chuckles. He looks around, unsure of whether he wishes to see Michael or not. ‘Where are the others?’ he asks.

‘They went for a run. You ok?’

Maxwell nods and sighs. ‘I’m good. Are we all alone, you sure?’

‘You’re worrying me, Maxxie,’ Amara frowns. ‘Talk to me.’

He rolls his eyes. He shouldn’t talk about it. Right? ‘Don’t worry, it’s nothing.’ He pauses, but Amara’s eyes are glued on him, expecting something else to come out of his mouth. He sighs again. ‘Fine. But you can’t say anything, not even to Drake.’

Amara nods and mimes zipping up her lips. Maxwell takes a deep breath.

He continues, ‘I couldn’t sleep last night, because Hana had a massive nightmare about bees—don’t ask. I went downstairs, and Michael was there. We had tea, then whiskey. We kind of…’ he trails off, unsure of how to define what happened last night.

Amara’s eyes light up. ‘Hooked up?’ She says in a hopeful tone.

Maxwell chuckles. ‘What? No! Amara, you dirty little minx.’ He can’t contain his smile. ‘Come on. Be serious for one second.’ He rolls his eyes playfully before continuing. ‘So as I was saying before you interrupted with your sick fantasies, Michael and I kind of...confessed how we feel about each other.’

Amara gasps and slaps her hand in front of her mouth. ‘Oh my God Maxxie! Really? That’s incredible!’

Max laughs lightly and places his hand on Amara’s forearm. ‘Alright, settle down, nothing happened. Well, he, um. He did take my hand.’

Amara gasps some more. ‘Oh my, Mr. Darcy. That’s some sexy shit! If we were in Victorian England.’ Maxwell shoots daggers at her and she bursts out laughing. ‘I’m joking, hun. Teasing you, because it’s so fucking cute I can’t handle it. He took your hand?’

Maxwell nods excitedly. ‘Yes. Told me he had a lot to process because he can see himself healing. But he wants to see me again.’

Amara drops the playful act immediately and Maxwell notices tears poking through her eyes. She grabs Maxwell by the shoulder and pulls him closer for a massive hug. ‘Sorry,’ she murmurs, ‘this is a bit excessive, I know, but fuck, Maxwell,’ she says as she pulls away and wipes away a tear, ‘this just makes me so happy.’ They both laugh. ‘Damn, it’s gonna be so hard to keep it to myself.’

*****

‘Let’s get some olives!’ Amara yells out to Drake, who is intently staring at some fish.

He nods and smiles at her, before pointing at the halibut fillets for the fishmonger to wrap up. Amara is delighted to see Drake in his element. The food everywhere, the vendors, the decisions he must make in order to entertain several people… She can tell that he’s enjoying himself immensely.

She has been tasked with picking up some fruit so she and Hana can make dessert, and some apéritif stuff for Maxwell and Michael to put together. Liv is bringing wine, and flying solo, since Rashad has to go to Serbia for a business deal. Since he’s not aware of her relationship with Drake, Amara can’t help but be relieved that it’ll be just them. Bertrand will join as well, and is bringing mini quiches, champagne, and vodka. They definitely won’t die of thirst. Maybe of alcohol poisoning, though.

They pick up a couple of types of olives, and Drake casually plants a kiss on Amara’s head as they walk away. Amara can’t stop this feeling of bliss. Sure, it’ll be exciting to roam around Europe on a train, it’ll be very Some Like It Hot, and there’ll be some investigating involved—after all, they have to find not one, not two, but three whole adult people, plus a baby—, but this domestic life they have been leading for a few days now is idyllic.

‘Hey babe,’ Drake says softly, ‘what do you think of apricots for your dessert?’

Amara smiles excitedly, ‘Oh yeah, great idea, and I’ll pick up some almondmeal to make some sort of frangipane!’ She places some apricots in a bag and hands it to the vendor. ‘Hello there,’ she says gleefully.

The woman gasps in surprise. ‘Oh my, as I live and breathe! Lady Amara, it’s you!’

Amara’s heart drops, and her face remains frozen mid-grimace. Shit, she thinks, she’s been so used to laying low that it’s been a while since she was last recognized. Since the bar fight, really. ‘Hi,’ she says with a nervous smile. ‘How are you?’

‘Oh, just wonderful,’ the middle-aged woman replies. She hands back the apricots and waves Amara off. ‘Oh, Lady Amara, those are on the house.’

‘No no, I insist, there’s no reason—‘

‘Please,’ the lady whispers. ‘I’m such a big fan. The country needs a relatable Queen, someone like you. It’s so unfair how the court has been treating you.’

Amara glances at Drake briefly, and says, ‘Ma’am, I assure you everyone has been lovely, no reason to feel this way. Now please tell me how much I owe you.’

The lady scoffs. ‘No. I refuse to take payment from a national treasure.’ Amara hears Drake chuckling next to her. The woman continues. ‘You’re so poised, and yet so sweet. Not like those nobles with,’ she pauses and gets closer to Amara in confidence, ‘some broomsticks up their asses, if you know what I mean.’

Drake chuckles some more and chimes in, ‘Oh, I know what you mean, Ma’am.’

She laughs. ‘Right, Mr. Walker gets it.’ She pauses and studies the two of them. ‘This is nice, seeing you two out and about. I’m glad you have supportive friends. And just so you know, most of us aren’t fooled.’

Amara’s heart is about to throb out of her chest. ‘Oh, uh, fooled about…?’ She manages to utter.

The lady snorts. ‘Fooled about those pictures!’

Amara exhales in relief. ‘Oh, yeah, I mean, I’ll address that soon, I just—I just needed to catch my breath. But, um… yeah, I’m glad people could see they weren’t what they seemed.’

The lady nods furiously. ‘Oh please. How convenient is it that Lady Madeleine gets to swoop in after you were framed? I’m telling you, my book club and I are not fooled. I told my husband, I said, those nobles, they’re threatened by your elegance and your natural grace, and so of course they had to retaliate.’

Amara can barely recall the second half of the conversation. She tips the woman generously and agrees to a selfie with her. As they walk away, Drake whispers to her ‘We dodged a fucking bullet, Ms. National Treasure.’

Amara’s eyes widen. ‘Tell me about it.’

*****

‘Hana, can you show me again?’ Michael asks desperately.

Hana hurries by his side to help him untangle the fairy lights they just bought at the corner store and place them on Drake’s terrace, interlocked in the flower pots. Hana has a knack for decorating, which does not come as a surprise, since the woman can do just about anything in grace and skill.

‘There you go!’ She exclaims, letting go of the lights.

‘Wow,’ Michael marvels, ‘it’s so much better when you do it.’

Hana chuckles. Maxwell walks onto the terrace, his arms full of plates and silverware. Michael hurries to help him. ‘Thank you,’ Maxwell whispers with a smile. Michael’s heart sinks. He can’t believe he’s leaving tomorrow. Who knows when he’ll see Max’s smile again?

‘Of course,’ Michael responds as his knuckles brush against Maxwell’s. They set the table together, in silence.

Hana plants herself in front of them and gives them a knowing smile. ‘We’re gonna miss you, Michael,’ she says in a sweet tone. Michael smiles. He’ll miss her too, he’s grown to love each of Amara’s friends in a very short time.

‘I’ll miss you too, honey,’ he says, holding out his arms to give her a quick hug. ‘You’ll have to come visit me in New York.’

Hana chuckles, ‘Lucky for you, it’s on the itinerary. We’re all going there after the Engagement Ball, at the end of the tour.’

Michael’s heart skips a beat. ‘All of you?’ He asks hopefully.

Hana nods. ‘Yup. All of us.’

Maxwell smiles. ‘You thought you could get away with an empty promise huh?’

Michael snorts. ‘Quite the opposite. I was hoping that day could come sooner, rather than later.’

Maxwell bites his lip. ‘Yeah. Just a few weeks away.’

‘Hello?’ Olivia walks in, carrying a wine bag with 4 bottles in it. ‘Was anybody gonna answer the door?’

Hana squeals. ‘Olivia! Sorry we were arranging lights for tonight! So good to see you!’

Olivia rolls her eyes as she sets the wine on the table. ‘Yeah yeah, you too, Lee. Can’t wait to see you drunk.’

Hana giggles. ‘With all the wine you brought, you definitely will.’

Olivia laughs lightly. ‘It only takes a glass with you, so I’m sure. How are you gentlemen doing?’

Maxwell walks towards her and gives her a tentative hug, which Liv meets with an exasperated grimace and a reluctant pat on the back. ‘Great, how are you, doll?’ He asks.

Liv shrugs. ‘Can barely walk after a night of goodbye sex with Rashad, thanks for asking.’

‘Oh good,’ Michael says jokingly, ‘we were wondering about that. Good to see you again, Olivia.’

‘Good to see you too, Mike Tyson,’ Olivia says with a smirk. ‘Get it? Because you punched a guy with your skinny little arm?’

Michael chuckles. ‘It was pretty obvious, yeah. Want a drink? Amara made a pitcher of margs before she left.’

‘Sure, let’s do it. Where are the disgusting lovebirds, by the way?’

Hana smiles. ‘They’re at the farmers market. Shopping for the bash.’

Olivia snorts. ‘Oh so they’ll be gone for hours. They’re probably gonna stop somewhere and bone.’

*****

‘Fuck, I really thought she was going to say something about us,’ Amara says with a sigh as they hop back into Drake’s Jeep. ‘I thought, that’s it, people are starting to suspect something, and tomorrow the tabloids will be all over it.’

Drake sighs as well as he turns on the ignition. ‘Yeah, I know. Well, we’re good, for now. Breathe, ok?’ He puts a reassuring hand on Amara’s knee.

She nods. ‘Yeah. She was pretty funny in the end.’

‘You’d think so,’ he teases, ‘she called you a national treasure. How does it feel?’

Amara chuckles lightly. ‘I don’t know, it’s a little surreal. I’m glad the perks involve free apricots, but beyond that… no clue.’

Drake laughs. ‘Hey Suarez?’ He asks.

‘Hm?’

‘Wanna stop by the beach for a second? I don’t feel like coming back to a house full of people just yet.’

Amara smiles excitedly. ‘Let’s do it.’

It’s a short drive to the beach, and Drake parks the Jeep in the shade, near a small creek that resembles the one they swam together in, when they confessed their feelings for the first time. Amara smiles at the memory. It feels like so long ago, and yet just a handful of months have passed. Hard to believe that she was still in her funk in Brooklyn before all of this.

They get out of the Jeep in comfortable silence, finding each other’s hand as soon as they close in the distance between them. Amara squeezes Drake’s hand and shoots him a smile. They take off their shoes to walk freely on the sand.

Sitting down on a rock, they contemplate the rippling of the Mediterranean. Amara can’t help but think of all the summers she spent with her family on the Delaware beaches, where the waves are high and the Atlantic is somewhat untameable. She was lucky if she could actually swim for more than a minute before being slapped by a wave. It was nice, though. There is something to be said about lively beach towns in America: the laughter, the saltwater taffy, the carnival rides, the candy stores, the hot dogs… does she miss it? Yeah, she does. But is this delightful?

Fuck yeah. The silence, the quiet spaces, where no one can see you. The cute little creeks where she can snuggle up to the man she loves. She peels her head off of Drake’s shoulder to look up at him. His kind eyes meet hers, and her soul is instantly warmed. He smiles back and presses a light kiss on her lips.

‘I wish we could swim,’ she whispers. ‘This place is so nice.’

Drake’s eyes darken. ‘Who said we can’t?’ He gets up and swiftly takes off his shirt. He looks down at Amara and gestures for her to follow suit.

He doesn’t have to beg her for long. She gets up as well and takes off her plain white T-shirt, before unbuttoning her jeans. Drake throws his on the rock and wraps Amara in a tight embrace.

‘You’re so fucking beautiful,’ he whispers before capturing her lips in a deep kiss.

They close in the space between themselves and the sea, and start walking into the water in their underwear, hand in hand. The water gets high fast, and soon enough it’s up to their waists. Amara holds her breath and immerses herself completely. Her makeup can go to hell. When she emerges, she cautiously opens one eye, then two. She takes in the beauty of her surroundings. The Portavira sun, glowing on the Mediterranean. The glistening water gently swaying on the rocks. Her beautiful man, right next to her, his body immersed, his face and hair wet. ‘Hi there,’ she says playfully. She wraps her arms around his neck, and kisses him deeply. She feels his hands grabbing her waist, pulling her closer. She feels his strong body against hers. Still enmeshed in their kiss, she wraps her legs around his waist. She can’t get close enough.

‘Fuck, I wish we’d ditched the underwear,’ Drake whispers into her kiss. She chuckles. Underwear has never stopped them. She reaches down to Drake’s boxers and swiftly pulls them down, freeing his already hard cock. He gasps.

‘Better?’ She asks, raising one eyebrow. Drake nods. He cups Amara’s ass with both hands, one of which is getting dangerously close to the seat of her panties. With one smooth motion, he pulls her underwear to the side and gently caresses her pussy lips, before teasing her entrance with one, then two fingers. Damn, she thinks. That’s all it takes, huh. She wants him, now, urgently. She lowers herself close to his cock, to the point where the tip of it is right at her entrance. She teases it with hip movements, bringing it almost inside. Drake groans loudly.

‘Fuck. I want you,’ he says in a low voice.

Before long, he’s inside her, both thrusting their hips in rhythm, completely oblivious of the world around them.

*****

Drake can’t believe they had sex in the ocean. Again. He can’t stop grinning as they walk back to the shore to find their clothes. Amara’s pale yellow bra immediately soaks up her white T-shirt, making it look like she went swimming in it.

She sighs, defeated. ‘I didn’t think it through,’ she laughs.

Drake takes her hand and pulls her closer. ‘Who fucking cares. I’m so glad we came. Pun intended.’

Amara bites her lip. ‘Me too. Is it illegal in Cordonia to walk around in a bra?’

‘Nope,’ Drake says proudly as he puts his jeans back on.

Amara follows suit and peels off her now wet T-shirt. ‘Alright, deal. Let me text Maxwell, let him know we’re on our way.’ She snaps a quick selfie and types a text. The familiar chime comes in about a second later. Max is a quick texter.

‘Ready to leave our love creek?’ Drake says, immediately regretting saying something so corny.

Amara chuckles. ‘Are you going mushy on me, Walker? Love creek, huh?’

He shrugs. ‘I knew you’d give me shit for it. I don’t care,’ he spreads his arms playfully, ‘take me or leave me, Suarez, I’m a big pile of goo when you’re around.’

*****

Bertrand debates what to take with him for tonight’s mini-bash. He’s so excited that he was included in the festivities that he wants everything to be perfect. He hasn’t been to the Walker cabin since… No, he can’t think about it. Not now.

Who is he fooling? He won’t be able to keep it together. He manages just fine when there are no memories of her around him, but over there, oh…

Get it together, you coward, he thinks. No one can know. It’s shameful enough that he fell for a woman over 8 years his junior, but to have treated her like that… To have engaged in sexual activity with her without providing any sense of commitment… his father would be ashamed of him.

What had he been afraid of, after all? It’s not like she was a kid. When it all started, she was in her early to mid-twenties, and he was a young thirtysomething. They fell for each other, that’s not so bad, is it?

But what could he have given her? With the blackmail payments, House Beaumont was not the wealthiest, and Bertrand himself, well… has never been the most fun-loving, the most pleasant man.

Savannah Walker deserved better than that.

When she disappeared, he tried to contact her. Called a few times, but when she picked up, he would instinctively hang up the phone. Too much of a coward, once again. He didn’t know what to say.

That’s why, a year into her absence, he finally found the courage to write an email. A long one, detailing how he had felt about her. Why he hadn’t stood up for her. Why he hadn’t shown her his love like he should have.

Yes, he found the courage to write that email.

But not to send it. It remains, to this day, in his drafts. Instead, he wrote her a brief, non-committal one, along the lines of ‘I hope you’re doing alright. I miss our talks.’

He does miss their talks. Her presence. Her aura. He hates himself for simply thinking this word, because it sounds so fakey, but when it comes to her, it’s not. She always raised his spirits. Made him smile. Made him forget the world, until the world reminded him that it exists.

And that day at the Walker cabin… when he’d driven her home after a bash and she had insisted that he stay over. They’d slept together, in the same bed, without anything happening. They’d cuddled, of course. But she’d been drinking, and Bertrand is not one to take advantage. So, he’d been there for her. Until the next morning when, at dawn, they both woke up and gave in to their desires.

He’ll never forget that day. Because it was the last time he saw her.

She had wanted him to commit, to be together out in the open, and he had been noncommittal, as usual. He needed time. He didn’t contact her again for over a month. By the time he did, she was gone.

No, he can’t think about it today. Not when he’s supposed to have a good time with his brother and their friends. This is a worry for another time.

*****

Liam clicks mindlessly on various files that need addressing. He doesn’t feel like doing any work, not today, not any day lately. He’s tired. He can’t wait until the tour begins, in just two little days. He’ll be able to see Drake, hang out with the guys, and see Amara again. He also misses Liv’s presence. It’s strange not to have her around, for the first time in over twenty years. Yes, the tour will be better.

He and Madeleine will have to sleep separately, on the tour. It’s tradition. The very thought of sleeping alone fills him with joy. For the past few days, she’s insisted on sharing his bed every night, and he can’t say no, because then she would be suspicious.

Now all he hopes for is that the whole scheme will be unveiled soon. They need to find Tariq. Find proof that the outings and the pictures were all staged, maliciously planted to ensure Madeleine’s place.

They need to. He can’t go on like this.

A light knock on his door. His neck tenses up. If it’s Madeleine, he doesn’t know what he’ll do. Probably cry into his hands.

‘Your Highness?’ Says a tentative voice.

He recognizes it instantly, and his neck relaxes a bit. ‘Ioanna? Come on in!’

He gets up to greet her with a handshake. She smiles at him. ‘It’s good to see you. I’m sorry to come in like this, but there was no one there to announce me.’

Liam remembers he told his secretary to go home. He had completely forgotten about his appointment with the Ambassador of Greece. ‘Don’t apologize, I’m very happy you’re here. And I told you to call me Liam. Take a seat!’

She obliges. ‘Thank you,’ she says softly. She frowns lightly. ‘Are you alright?’ She asks. ‘You look...I don’t mean to be insulting…’

Liam glances at his computer screen, where his reflection is staring at him haggardly. Yep, he looks like shit. Bloodshot eyes, bags underneath, everything. ‘Um, yes, I realize I’m not looking my best.’ He tries not to focus on his tie-less shirt. ‘I apologize. If I’m being honest, I had completely forgotten about this appointment.’

‘I can come back later if—‘

‘No!’ He interrupts a little too quickly. ‘No, please. I’m happy you’re here.’

She smiles. ‘Alright. The Ambassador is still not feeling a hundred percent, and he didn’t want to take any chances. He would never forgive himself if he gave you the stomach flu right before your Engagement Tour.’ She pauses. ‘Oh my goodness,’ she exclaims, ‘I realized I didn’t even congratulate you properly! So, congratulations on your engagement, this is wonderful news.’

He smiles at her sadly. ‘Thank you, Ioanna.’ He can’t muster up the strength to say anything else.

She senses it. He knows she does. ‘Liam, I hope I’m not overstepping,’ she whispers, ‘but if you ever need to talk to someone who’s completely outside of…’ she looks around and makes an encompassing gesture, ‘well, all of this, you have my contact info. I mean it, ok?’

Liam lets out an uneven breath, which almost sounds like a sob. ‘Thank you,’ he says with relief. ‘You’re not overstepping at all.’

*****

‘Hey!’ Amara yells out at she comes onto the cabin terrace where all her friends are sipping margaritas. ‘Sorry for the delay, Drake is putting the groceries away.’

She had put her T-shirt back on, but it’s very obviously still wet. Olivia glances at it with a smirk. ‘So that’s how you greet me, Suarez? With a wet T-shirt contest?’

Amara gasps. ‘Liv! You’re here!’ She holds out her arms.

‘No hugs, thank you very much. This is silk,’ she says, gesturing to her black blouse.

‘Fair enough,’ Amara chuckles, ‘and it’s a gorgeous blouse. I should go change if we’re daydrinking!’

‘Fuck yeah we are!’ Michael exclaims.

Amara laughs wholeheartedly. She loves Drunk Mike. ‘Alright honeys, I’ll be right back.’

She hops up to Drake’s room to choose an outfit. Parts of her want to be casual and comfortable, but this is a mini-bash after all, so some degree of dressing up is expected. Plus, this is Michael’s last night in Cordonia. Attention must be paid. So, a cute sundress it is. She picks a white one with green flowers and a plunging neckline. Brown strappy heels to match.

An hour later, she and Hana have made their apricot frangipane dessert, which is baking in the oven. Max and Michael are prepping a nice apéritif, Drake is cooking gleefully, and everyone is already drunk.

‘Hey Liv,’ Drake says, ‘since you’re not doing anything, can you chop that mango for me?’

Olivia looks at him, outraged, from the chaise longue on the terrace. She gestures at her blouse. ‘Have I mentioned that this is silk?’

Drake rolls his eye. ‘Fine, I’ll do it…’

‘Yeah,’ Liv mutters, ‘it’s not like what you have on is made of any precious fabric.’

Maxwell sighs. ‘Be nice, Liv, he’s making you dinner.’

Liv sticks out her tongue and takes another sip of her margarita.

A knock on the door is heard. Everyone goes silent, all that can be heard is the playlist that Maxwell is carefully curating. Amara takes a deep breath as she gets up. ‘Alright, it better be Bertrand,’ she says softly, ‘because if it’s Leo again I’m gonna fuck him up.’

They all chuckle nervously. Amara walks to the door and opens it slowly. Her face lights up. ‘Bertrand! You made it!’ She exclaims as she throws her arms around him.

Bertrand laughs awkwardly. ‘Oh, what a nice welcome, Amara, thank you for having me!’

Amara gestures for him to come in and leads him to the kitchen and the terrace. She can’t help but notice that he looks nervous. She’s gonna have to make him a big drink.

‘Everyone, it’s Bertrand!’ She yells. The others cheer and chant Bertrand’s name. He seems to let loose a bit and smiles more broadly as he places the huge cardboard box containing alcohol and mini quiches on the table. Amara continues, ‘I hope you brought your tassel PJs, Bertrand, because no one’s driving back home tonight,’ she exclaims as she passes him a fresh margarita. ‘Also I love your ascot.’

Bertrand opted for a purple ascot with squids on it, and Amara has trouble looking away from his shoes: matching purple moccasins with...tassels.

‘Why thank you, Amara, it’s very kind of you to say,’ Bertrand blushes. ‘Please dig into the mini quiches.’

*****

‘Truth!’

Hana is already giggling uncontrollably, and Drake hands her a glass of water as she prepares to answer the next question. The evening inevitably started with a very fruitful apéritif and a game of truth or dare.

Liv raises her hand. ‘I got one! Who’s the grossest celebrity you would fuck?’

Amara frowns, ‘Ew, Liv, what a weird question.’

Liv shrugs. ‘I stand by it.’

Hana thinks intently. ‘Hmm… I don’t think anyone is gross, Olivia, everyone is beautiful in their own way!’

‘Come on, Hana!’ Amara exclaims. ‘Lots of people are gross!’

Hana shakes her head. ‘I don’t agree!’

Liv rolls her eyes. ‘Alright, Saint Hana, then who’s the oldest celebrity you would bang?’

Hana’s eyes light up. ‘Oh, that’s easy! Ruth Bader Ginsburg!’

There is a deep silence, before everyone bursts out laughing.

‘Ok, your turn, Bertrand!’ Hana exclaims. ‘Truth or dare?’

Bertrand wipes off a tear from laughter. ‘Let’s say truth!’ He says hesitantly.

Hana thinks for a second. Drake can’t help but feel badly for Bertrand, who has to be thinking of Sav right now. Drake is glad that they’re keeping busy with games to divert the attention, because if he gets any closer to becoming Bertrand’s friend, he’s gonna have a very hard time keeping the truth to himself.

Hana gasps. ‘I know! Who would you rather’ she pauses to let out a giggle, ‘bone, between Queen Regina, Lady Madeleine, and…’ Hana can barely control her laughter, ‘King Constantine!’

‘Good Lord, woman,’ Liv chuckles.

Bertrand’s face hardens. ‘This is sacrilegious, Lady Hana. Why would I talk about our royalty in such terms?’ He pauses and smiles broadly. ‘I’m joking. I would bone Queen Regina.’

*****

Taglist:

@drakeandcamilleofvaltoria @andy-loves-corgis , @jovialyouthmusic , @mariahschoices @drakesensworld @thequeenofcronuts , @notoriouscs , @drakewalkerisreal @nikkis1983​ , @simsvetements , @alesana45 @iplaydrake @emceesynonymroll @lily1999love , @silviasutton1989 @dcbbw @texaskitten30 @furiousherringoperatortoad @hollygirl1269 @sirbeepsalot @ladyangel70 @thisperfectmemory @drxkewalker @i-bloody-love-drake-walker @mrsmairstanley @addictedtodrakefanfic @msjpuddleduck @kimmiedoo5 @furryperfectionlover @princessleac1

Thank you for your encouragements, everyone! Let me know if you want to be added to the taglist :)

[camillemontespan]

intoxicated thoughts [drake x camille] [2/2]

First part here if you want to catch up

This was meant to be a one shot but @fromthedeskofpaisleybleakmore​ said we needed to have a follow up! So here’s the follow up! I might do another one of these, like a trilogy, but I’ve promised myself to stop doing lots of series. But if you guys want another follow up, let me know because I do have ideas. 

Warnings: Swearing, alcohol abuse

I’ve taken events from TRR1 and changed them, made them better in my opinion (lol I’m kidding). 

@moonlightgem7 @jovialyouthmusic​ @ibldw-main​ @burnsoslow​ @sirbeepsalot​ @dcbbw​ @saivilo​ @pug-bitch​ @loveellamae​ @walkerswhiskeygirl​ @gardeningourmet​ @katedrakeohd​  @mskaneko​ @of-course-i-went-to-hartfeld​ @emichelle​

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

Drake woke up bleary eyed. As his vision adjusted to the light of the room, he swallowed and gagged - his mouth tasted like something had died in there.

Turning his head, he realised he wasn't in his own bedroom. Wherever he was, it was not his private space.

What did I do last night?

The bedroom was clean and tidy. There was a dressing table with a make up stand om the surface and a purple dress hanging up against the wardrobe.

I'm in a woman's room. Oh god. Please don't be Madeleine, please don't be Madeleine..

He jumped when the bathroom door opened and out stepped Camille. She looked at him and gave him a weak smile.

'Hey Drake,' she greeted him. 'How are you feeling?'

Drake stared at her in horror.

I'm in Camille Montespan's bed. I have fucking woken up in her bed and I don't know how I got here.

'Um.. What am I doing here?' he croaked.

Camille sat down on the edge of the bed. 'You came to my door last night, hammered,' she told him. 'You said you had something important to tell me..'

Drake frowned then realisation dawned on him. Camille noted the haunted look on his face and reached out to touch his hand - Drake quickly moved it out of her reach. His mind was racing. He could remember now.

Fuck. I nearly blew it. I was gonna tell her i has feelings for her. Jesus Christ, I'm a fucking idiot. She's in a competition to marry my best friend and here I go, traipsing to her room to declare feelings. Shoot me now. Just fucking shoot me now.

Camille cleared her throat. 'Drake? You okay? Do you remember what you were going to tell me? It sounded serious.'

Drake shook his head fiercely. 'Nope,' he said simply. 'Can't remember Montespan. I was drunk. Probably was going to regale you about a new whiskey I'd found.'

He turned away, too embarrassed to look at her. He didn't notice the disappointed expression that passed over her face.

'Oh,' she muttered. 'Okay. You just seemed quite upset. Like you threw up -'

'I threw up?!' Drake cried. 'Aww man, Camille, I'm so sorry. Jesus. Was it bad? Was it really really bad?'

Camille shrugged. 'Nothing a deep clean couldn't fix.'

Drake turned bright red with mortification. He had thrown up in front of Camille Montespan. He had embarrassed himself.

Would Liam throw up in front of the woman he liked? Probably not since Liam rarely got drunk and was a gentleman. Liam didn't randomly show up in the night and proceed to vomit everywhere. Liam probably never vomited. But Drake Walker did.

What. A. Catch.

So we're leaving for Applewood in an hour..' Camille said delicately.

'FUCK, APPLEWOOD!' Drake shouted, bolting up in the bed. 'Gah, I need to get ready!'

He untangled himself from the bed covers and stood up, promptly slumping back down again. The room was spinning.

'Oh god..' He groaned, placing his head in his hands. 'Fuck my lifeeee....'

Camille handed him a glass of water which he gratefully took. Headache tablets soon followed.

'What happens at Applewood?' Camille asked him.

Drake closed his eyes. 'A lot of bullshit, Montespan. A weekend of never ending bullshit.'

Camille winced. 'Do you want to stay behind?'

Drake shook his head. 'No. I have to be there for you - I mean, Liam. I need to support him.'

Camille nodded. 'Well, you should probably get ready.'

Drake was preparing himself to stand up again when the door knocked. His eyes flew to Camille who held up a hand to reassure him. She padded over to open the door, making sure to shield Drake so the visitor wouldn't see him.

It was Bertrand and Maxwell.

'Little Blossom!' Maxwell trilled, his high voice piercing Drake's ears.

'Hey Max,' Camille said. 'Hi Bertrand.'

'Can we come in or are we not allowed to grace you with our presence?' Bertrand asked dryly.

Maxwell wrinkled his nose. 'I can smell sick..'

Drake wanted to die.

'Yeah I've been unwell,' Camille lied. 'Was sick last night, very disgusting -'

Okay, now Drake wanted to die.

Bertrand was instantly on high alert. 'Camille, you simply cannot be unwell for Applewood! This weekend is of vast importance, it could make or break your place in the competition!'

Camille waved a hand. 'I'm fine now.'

Bertrand instantly calmed down and went back to being collected and serious. 'Can we come in then?'

Camille, realising she had no choice, backed away to let the Beaumonts inside. Drake threw the duvet over him in a bid to hide but it didn't work. Maxwell clocked him.

'Drake?!' he squealed. 'Why are you in Camille's bed?'

Drake turned red. Camille closed her eyes, counting to ten, waiting for Bertrand to blow up.

Bertrand blew up in 3 seconds.

'Camille, what is the meaning of this?!' he thundered. 'Why is Drake Walker in your bed? Were you hiding him?! Why? What have you both done?'

Before Camille could protest, Drake dragged himself out of the bed and stood up, ignoring the spinning room. 'It's fine, Bertrand,' he said. 'Look, I'm fully clothed. I just got drunk last night and Camille looked after me. That's all.'

Bertrand narrowed his eyes and stalked over to Drake, examining him. 'Funny that you couldn't look after yourself in your own room..' He muttered.

He drew back and said grandly, 'Camille doesn't need any more distractions. She needs to focus on winning Liam's heart, do you understand?'

Drake nodded. Camille moved forward and stood beside Drake to defend him.

'Bertrand, he's my friend, not a distraction!' she protested. 'He was really unwell last night. It was my decision to look after him. I can assure you I'm prepared for this weekend -'

'You have another man in your bed!' Bertrand cried.

'Fully clothed!' Camille shot back. 'Nothing happened. And FYI, even if something did, I wouldn't tell you because it wouldn't be your business!'

Bertrand's lip curled. He moved closer to Camille and hissed, 'Miss Montespan. While you are in my care and representing my house, it is my business.'

Drake moved forward and stepped in front of Camille to face Bertrand. 'Don't talk to her that way,' he growled.

He felt Camille place her hand on his in an attempt to ground him.

Bertrand stepped back and gave Drake and Camille a simpering smile. 'Be ready in thirty minutes, Camille!' he told her. Camille nodded and took her dress to the bathroom so she could change.

When the door locked behind her, Bertrand was back in Drake's face.

'Do not ruin her chances,' he whispered, pointing in Drake's face. 'She is the Beaumont's only chance to save our reputation. Abandon any hopes you have that she will return your feelings -'

'I don't have feelings,' Drake lied.

Bertrand bulldozed through, ignoring his protests. 'Abandon the silly notion that she might return your feelings. It won't happen. She is the front runner in this competition. I'm not saying this to bring you down, Drake, I'm telling you this so you can face reality. If all goes well today, she will be the favourite and Liam will choose her in a few months. She will marry him. So stop ending up in her bedroom and stop defending her and stop acting like the lovesick puppy that you actually are. Just put your feelings in a box and accept reality. Can you do that?'

Drake thought of the whiskey bottle he used to ignore his feelings for Camille.

'Trust me, Bertrand,' he said coolly, 'I can do that.'

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

Horse riding.

That was the first activity the court had to take part in at Applewood. They were to ride along the cliff side, taking in the views and try to show off their best riding skills.

Drake instantly wished he could jump off the cliff and plunge to his much welcome death.

He shakily clambered onto the horse he was given and held the reins tight. As soon as he settled on the saddle, he knew this was a recipe for disaster. Hangovers and horses shouldn't mix.

His horse was called Rebel and he looked just as reluctant as Drake to begin the festivities. As Drake looked around, he could see Liam at the front astride his white horse, Prince. He was talking to Olivia who had sidled up to ride alongside him.

Camille and Hana were on their horses beside each other. While the other ladies had chosen to wear proper riding uniform, Camille, Drake noticed, had not.

Oh god. They're gonna eat you alive, kid, he thought to himself.

Camille was wearing jeans and a black vest top. To Drake, that was perfectly reasonable riding attire but then again, Drake never wore riding gear. But he knew the other suitors would be looking at Camille and judging her.

Bitches.

Liam signalled for the ride to begin. Drake held on to his horse, praying he wouldn't throw up again. He had a feeling Rebel wouldn't appreciate it.

For ten minutes, Drake concentrated hard on not falling off the horse.

He was actually a good rider which always surprised people. However today, his skills left a lot to be desired.

'Just go slow,' he whispered to Rebel. 'Nice and slow..'

'Hey Drake!'

He jumped at the sound of Camille's voice. He hadn't noticed that she had stopped riding so she could wait for him. Drake was at the very back of the group, depressingly so.

'Montespan,' he greeted her.

Camille began to ride alongside him. 'Meet Coconut,' she said, gesturing to her white horse. 'Isn't she pretty?'

Drake smiled. 'This is Rebel. He's not pretty. He's handsome.'

The horse wickered in response. Camille let out a surprised giggle. 'Drake Walker, are you joking with me?'

Drake rolled his eyes. 'I am capable of joking around, Montespan.'

Camille grinned and they rode together in comfortable silence until Drake broke it. For some reason, he always had to keep talking to her. With anyone else, he was happy not to talk. With Camille, not so much.

‘How come you’re riding with me?’ he asked. ‘You should be up near the front with Liam.’

Camille shrugged. ‘I don’t want to ride near Liam,’ she told him honestly. ‘Besides..’ she gave Drake some serious side eye. ‘Someone’s got to make sure you don’t fall off your horse.’ 

Drake smirked. ‘How kind of you.’

Camille stuck her tongue out at him before turning to look out over the horizon. Drake watched her for a moment, studying the way the sunlight hit her cheekbones, highlighting her skin. Her eyelashes cast long shadows across her face and the corner of her mouth was always upturned, as if she was always smiling. It was one detail Drake had noticed about her. He loved it. 

Camille caught him looking. Taken aback, Drake looked away hastily but in his flustering, he lost his grip and slipped to the side of his horse. 

‘Jesus, Drake!’ Camille shouted, catching him by the arm and hauling him back up. Drake turned bright red. Tomato red. 

‘Oops.’

Camille stared at him, aghast. ‘You realise I was joking about you falling off the horse, right? That wasn’t permission to start throwing yourself off it!’

‘You caught me by surprise!’ Drake protested. 

‘How?!’

‘I was looking at you and then you looked at me and it surprised me!’ Drake burst out, instantly regretting his admission. Camille pulled on Coconut’s reins to stop the horse from moving forward. 

There was a very awkward silence. 

‘You were looking at me?’ she asked. 

Drake looked down at his hands, then away to the view of the ocean below the cliff. He didn’t answer. 

Camille bit her lip and moved Coconut so she could move closer to Drake. 

‘Drake, why did you come to my room last night?’ she whispered. ‘You’re keeping something from me. Just be honest.’

‘I told you, I don’t know why I came to your room,’ Drake replied, his tone blunter than he intended. 

‘I think you’re lying,’ Camille said. 

‘Camille, why do you even care?’ Drake asked, losing patience. He didn’t like the third degree. He didn’t want to say something he shouldn’t. He didn’t want to be honest. It wasn’t the time to be honest. For one thing, he wasn’t drunk. Drunk Drake was more confident when it came to honesty. Sober Drake was considering suicide by cliffdiving. 

‘I care because you clearly got wasted last night and you turned up at my door and said we needed to talk!’ Camille burst out, exasperation filling her voice. ‘You looked really upset! I thought we were friends? I thought we could talk about things, you know? We talk when we go to dive bars and shit, so what’s the difference now? What’s bothering you so much? What is causing you to drink until 3am on a Wednesday night?’

Drake’s jaw set. 

You. You are the reason why I drink till 3am on a Wednesday night. 

But he didn’t say that. Instead, he jutted his chin out in the direction of the group who were now miles away from them. ‘You better catch up with the group or Bertrand will give you grief,’ he told her, his voice cold. ‘God forbid his reputation goes down the drain because you couldn’t perform well at a riding event.’ 

Camille narrowed her eyes. Drake was surprised when she leaned close, her nose practically touching his. ‘I knew Bertrand upset you,’ she hissed. ‘But just know that those are his thoughts, not mine.’

Drake blanched at her sudden fierceness. Camille drew back and kicked Coconut gently in the sides, telling the horse to go. Drake watched her ride off to join the rest of the group, leaving him feeling sick in his stomach and this time, not from alcohol.

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

Best way to cure a hangover is hair of the dog. 

Double measure of whiskey. Yes, delicious. 

I couldn’t sleep again tonight. Why? Funnily enough, because of you. For once, it wasn’t because I dreamt of you, oh no. I haven’t even been to sleep, Camille. I’ve laid awake for four hours, staring at the ceiling, thinking about our last exchange, wishing I had just thrown myself off the fucking cliff before I even got on that damn horse. 

I’ve never seen you angry before. I’m sorry. I didn’t mean it. I just got scared.  I felt cornered and I didn’t want to be honest with you because it wasn’t the right time.

It’s never the right time. For one thing, you’re in a competition to marry my best friend and you’ll probably marry him which means it will never be the right time to tell you how I feel. 

You make me smile. Like, I feel happy when I hang out with you. I felt happy riding our horses together today until I ruined it. I could’ve done without the hangover but in a way, your presence made it easier for me.

You watch out for me. You have my back. When I was at the back of the riding group, clearly suffering, you waited for me and kept me company. Was it pity? Or are you just a good person? The world could do with more good people so I sincerely hope it’s the latter. Also I’d hate for you to pity me.

See, I act like I don’t give a fuck about what people think of me but I do. I suppose when I was younger, I didn’t care, but as soon as my dad died, sister left, mom left.. Well, I started to think it was me. Like it was my fault. That nobody wanted to be near me.  Then the other courtiers act like I’m the shit on their shoe and I started to believe it. 

Pathetic, huh?

Another drink…

So, when I start hanging out with you, I want you to like me. But in the back of my mind, I keep thinking you’ll leave. Or you’ll choose to be with Liam. Why would you reject a prince for a pauper? Exactly. You wouldn’t. Nobody would. 

Camille, I expect you to leave me at some point because that’s what everyone else does. 

Why set myself up for disappointment?

Another drink.. Damn, I’m running out of this bottle..

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

Continuing with my self loathing… I have walls. I know I do. I hate myself for it. But walls protect you, that’s the point. In this court, it’s every man for himself and I’ve learned the hard way not to trust anyone. 

I can look after myself. 

But sometimes, it’s nice to think I don’t have to just be alone. I like to think we’re friends. I like to think we could be more than that. In my dreams of you, you sometimes leave the suitor competition.  Other times, you marry me. It’s ridiculous, I know. 

I’m only human, Camille.

We all just want to be a little less lonely. 

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

Whiskey is the best motherfuckin’ drink on the planet.  

Dad used to drink it all the time. Can totally see why. 

But I’ve run out of this bottle now so I’mma look around for another. I’ve got one somewhere, sure of it.

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

Jesus, this bottle is fucking dusty. 

Double measure please. Block out all thoughts of Camille. No, Walker, don’t even think of her name no matter how damn pretty it is, DON’T THINK IT.

Camille, you so pretty. I love your eyes. They’re brown with gold flecks, like an owl. Have you noticed that? I think they’re astonishing. I KNOW. Isn’t that the best word to describe your eyes? Astonishing! 

I’d love to look into your eyes and tell you that but that would be weird and creepy so I’ll just settle for thinking about them.

I miss you.

I’m sorry we argued. I’m an asshole. I’m the shit on your shoe. I don’t deserve your friendship. Fuck, I actually don’t want us to be friends, I want us to be more than that! I want to be able to call you my girlfriend and go on proper dates with you and kiss you and tell you everyday how beautiful I think you are, inside and out, and how I love your laugh and I love your smile and I love the smell of your hair and I love how kind you are and funny and cute..

I miss you.

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

Camille earmarked her book and set it down so she could open the door. Glancing at the clock, she could see it was midnight. See if it was Bertrand coming to shout at her for looking after Drake, he had another thing coming.

It was Drake.

Clearly, he hadn’t learned his lesson from the night before. His eyes were bloodshot and red rimmed. He looked drunk. He smelled of whiskey. 

‘Drake, come on..’ Camille chastised him. ‘Again?’

Drake’s shoulders slumped and he turned to go. Feeling guilty, Camille reached out to take his arm and guided him into the bedroom. She gently sat him down on the edge of the bed and kneeled down so she could look him in the eyes properly.

‘Drake,’ she whispered. ‘Talk to me. What’s bothering you?’

Drake’s eyes welled up with tears. Shocked at this uncharacteristic reaction, Camille reached out to pull him into her and wrapped her arms around his neck. ‘Shhh..’ she soothed him. 

‘I’m sorry,’ he mumbled against the crook of her neck. ‘I’m sorry. I was an asshole earlier.’

Camille shook her head. ‘No, I was.’

She wiped his wet cheeks and looked him in the eyes again. He smiled sadly. ‘Your.. your eyes look like an owl’s,’ he whispered. ‘They’re astonishing.’

Camille blinked but her surprise soon faded and she smiled softly. ‘Your eyes are astonishing too, Drake. You know in some lights, they turn a different colour?’ 

Drake chuckled. ‘I.. I didn’t know that.’

Camille grinned. ‘Well, now you do.’

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

They spent the next hour curled up under the duvet. Drake, still half-drunk, let his arm fall around her shoulders as she sat propped up against him, reading her book. Sometimes, she would laugh and Drake would ask what was funny so she would read out a sentence or two. 

They didn’t comment on how intimate this was.

Tomorrow, they would continue as normal, playing their parts at Applewood. Camille would pretend to be a suitor wanting to marry Liam. Drake would pretend to be the best friend doing Liam a favour by hanging out with her.  They each had a script to follow. They could slip into these roles like putting on a coat.  They could just as easily take the coat off. 

As Camille read aloud and Drake listened, he realised in his drunken haze that this was like one of his dreams. Except, this time, it was reality.

[alj4890]

Delicate

(Olivia Nevarkis x Ethan Ramsey) in a Choices The Royal Romance/Open Heart Crossover crack series.

A/N This series will go back and forth with memories and to how things are progressing for Olivia and Ethan. We will also see how Drake reacts to everything. In this chapter, Olivia is getting ready for her first date with the doctor while thoughts of the past with her friends and parents accompany her.

@jooous​ @krsnlove​  @motorcitymademadame​ e I lost my tag list for this. If you want to be tagged, let me know. 😊

Masterlist

Part 1

Olivia's Apartment, Boston...

Wiping the fog off her mirror, Olivia paused to truly examine herself. She noticed the damp red curls, ivory skin blushing from her hot shower, and the expression on her face.

Am I...am I giddy?

She leaned in closer. Her green eyes were actually shining. Not from tears. Not flashing with anger. The cause was something different.

Ethan was responsible for this transformation.

In fact, now that she thought about it, this change had been gradually happening since she met him.

Is this why Liam and Riley were willing to do whatever it took to be together? Why Maxwell has more frequent flier miles than anyone else? Why Hana beams whenever Rashad is near? Why Amanda is willing to live part of the year away from Cordonia?

Could it be, love? No. Too soon. We've done nothing but discuss the new hospital.

Another stray thought creeped in as she dried her hair.

What about the coffee shop?

Those, well she wouldn't call them dates, agreed upon moments where the two of them escaped Edenbrook to talk over cups of coffee. Those not a date times had ended up being where they learned more about each other.

If she was brutally honest with herself, she would admit that she might have been more open with him than any other man she knew.

He somehow made it easy for her to share her past.

Perhaps it was because they had both been abandoned as children.

It was a form of abandonment, Olivia thought. My parents were willing to put their selfish reasons before their five year old daughter. They were willing to chance making me an orphan just so they could rule Cordonia. Whatever affection they held for me wasn't enough to make them stay.

And just like them, Ethan's mother had put her wants before her son.

The image of his face that day his mother was brought in the emergency room with a drug overdose came to mind.

Olivia knew that type of anguish. It could only come from a wound that never completely heals. It came from that broken trust in the very people who were supposed to love and care for you unconditionally.

It could only come from a parent walking away from their child.

After giving the case to another physician and needing a moment away from the situation, Ethan invited her out for coffee and told her about his mother.

When he struggled to get the words out of how he was when she first left, Olivia had done something she never did for someone outside her small inner circle.

She reached across their table and took his hand, then offered her understanding by sharing with him what her parents had done.

Those startlingly blue eyes of his had fixed upon her face. He didn't say a word to interrupt her.

He only held her hand.

They knew in that instant that they had found someone who could truly understand their resentment that fluctuated with a yearning for what should have been. Found someone who had worked just as hard to prove that they could survive without their parents. Found a person who didn't need explanations for the heartache they had suffered but tried to keep hidden.

Olivia had once thought Drake would understand and maybe he did. But, he had tried not to get into deep discussions with her. The few times she had attempted to talk to him, he had distracted her with a kiss or changed the subject.

Perhaps that was a sign that he couldn't feel anything more than sexual attraction for her.

Olivia shook her head at these thoughts and went to her closet. Her lips curved somewhat as she went through the many dresses Hana had insisted she bring along.

As she held a red dress that would most likely work for dinner and the opera that Ethan suggested they see this evening, she was reminded of the last conversation she had with Hana the night before she left Lythikos.

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

Lythikos, Cordonia, five months ago...

"You might have some nights where you will need a more formal dress." Hana went through Olivia's walk through closet. "I would at the very least pack three different gowns. If you need more, I can try and ship them or you could go shopping."

"I'm not going there to socialize." Olivia reminded her. "I'm going there specifically to convince them that Cordonia is where they should be."

"And what better way to do so than by making sure you look the part?" Hana asked.

"These are highly intelligent men." Olivia replied. "They are nothing like the foolish nobles we deal with on a daily basis." She eyed her closet filled with various gowns. "A dress will do little to sway them toward my mission."

Hana took a deep breath before hinting at another reason to take them. "Well, what if you are invited...out...and need something to wear?"

"Out?"

"Yes." Hana smiled at her. "What if someone asks you to dinner or something?"

Olivia blinked. "I...that's not...I have more important things to do than--"

"One never knows when love will strike." Hana chose two red and one black. "Look at me and Rashad. Who would have thought we would find each other after being forced together by Madeleine?"

"Well, it isn't that farfetched." Olivia muttered. "Everyone likes you."

"They like you too." Hana insisted. "You've changed these past few years."

"I have?"

Hana tilted her head as if in study. "You are still you, but you've," she seemed to search for the right word, "you've softened."

"What?" Olivia was highly offended by that observation. "Softened?!"

"It's a good thing!" Hana laughed at the expression on her friend's face. She then smiled at the fact that Olivia was truly a friend of hers now. "You are still formidable, just more approachable."

"I should have never joined in with you and Riley." Olivia grumbled.

"If you hadn't, then we wouldn't be building a hospital."

"We wouldn't?"

"I don't think the old Olivia would be worried about such a thing." Hana explained. "The old you seemed more concerned with herself and just Lythikos."

Olivia hesitated. This hospital was still coming about in the hopes of changing her reputation. It just so happened that it would benefit others as well.

She couldn't let Hana believe she was some sacrificial heroine that put others before herself.

"Hana, I do want this hospital for Cordonia, but I also hope it helps repair the damage my parents and Lucretia did."

She was surprised to see Hana's smile widen.

"And that's why your friends are going to do all we can to make it happen." Hana began to pick out various other outfits for the stunned duchess. "We want the people to see what we see in you."

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

Later that night, Olivia paced her chambers. Her muscles seemed determined to remain tight, ready for battle. It seemed that they were unaware that this wouldn't be that type of fight.

Her mind replayed the conversation with Hana. Was this softening going to be a problem or would it help her with convincing Dr. Banerji and Dr. Ramsey to uproot their lives for this?

Knowing she wouldn't sleep until she got some type of answer, she decided to call someone who she usually depended on to listen to her few worries.

"Why aren't you asleep?" Amanda said in lieu of greeting.

"And hello to you too." Olivia muttered.

"You know that's a given." Amanda replied. "And I know that something is wrong for you to call when we are to see each other within a few hours."

"Your perceptiveness is still impressive." Olivia remarked. "Good to see marriage hasn't weakened it."

Amanda snorted in laughter. "Weakened? If anything, it only enhanced it." She sobered when she noticed that her friend was not at least chuckling. "What's wrong?"

"I have a question that I want nothing but a brutal honesty." Olivia said.

"Okay."

"Do you, do you think I have changed?"

"In what way?"

"My personality." Olivia huffed. "Do you think I have softened?"

She didn't know if it was a good thing or not that Amanda was not answering immediately.

"Yes, I think you have."

Olivia sat down, wondering how she had missed this transformation of herself. "Really?"

"I think we have all changed." Amanda added. "And why wouldn't we? After all we have gone through. You most especially."

"Why me more than the rest of you?"

"Liv," she could hear Amanda's smile, "think of how you were two years ago. You were only concerned with winning Liam."

"So were the other ladies." Olivia grumbled.

"Yes, but you didn't care about anything else." Amanda pointed out. "If it didn't directly affect your goal to being his queen, you gave it little thought. I think once Constantine's interference in both yours and Riley's chances with Liam occurred, you then realized that there were other things going on around you."

"You make me sound self absorbed."

"You were." Amanda's tone gentled. "Don't get me wrong, you have been there for me during my own difficulties over the years and I will always love you for it. Which might be why I excused your behavior during Liam's search for a bride. But, yes, you have definitely changed. You have always been loyal and steadfast, willing to do whatever was needed for those you care for. What's changed is that you have expanded on that. You are now willing to include those you used to not think much about."

Olivia sat down, wondering what kind of person she was now.

"What brought this on?" Amanda asked.

"Hana. She made an observation that I had softened." Olivia grimaced slightly. "Do you think this will affect our chances tomorrow?"

"Definitely." Amanda replied.

Olivia dropped her head in her hand. She couldn't believe she had managed to ruin this before ever having a chance to meet the renowned doctors.

"I think our chances of persuading them will be even better because of your softening." Amanda added.

"You do?" Olivia sat up straight.

"I do."

"Oh."

"Liv, get some sleep. We'll need you sharp to explain your mission." Amanda chuckled again. "Between your passion and ideas for this hospital, they won't be able to say no."

"I--" Olivia felt herself grin. "Thank you."

"Anytime."

"What time does your flight get in?" Olivia asked.

"I went ahead and left today."

"You did?" Olivia didn't bother to hide her surprise. "Did Thomas come with you?"

"No. I encouraged him to stay at home and finish his lecture notes."

"Nothing's wrong is there?" Olivia asked.

She knew first hand that the couple tried to travel together. This was something new.

"Everything's fine." Amanda explained. "I didn't want jet lag to somehow mess this up for you." She smiled at seeing her husband's name flash on her phone. "Thomas offered to come too, but I thought we would wait and see how the initial meeting goes."

"That is...thank you." Olivia simply said.

"You're welcome. Now, if you feel better, I will let you go and answer Thomas's call before he thinks I ran off with a doctor or something." Amanda teased.

"Nothing wrong with reminding him what he could lose." Olivia replied. "And I do feel better. I'm not sure I'm comfortable having softened, but at least it seems to be a good thing."

"It is." Amanda told her she would see her in the morning and ended the call.

Olivia made herself go back to bed. Having at least voiced some of her concerns, she was able to finally fall asleep.

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

Olivia's Apartment, Boston...

She finished applying lipstick, then stepped back to study her reflection.

A few quick turns were all that was needed to agree with Hana's choice.

Olivia brushed her red hair over her shoulder, then draped it over the other. Grimacing at being unable to make up her mind how to leave it down, she searched through the cabinets for one of her signature clips.

I'll just put it up, she thought.

The sound of the downstairs' door buzzer had her giving up her search.

Her nerves struck her stomach as she buzzed Ethan in.

Calm down. He's a man. Nothing special at all about him. Just because he is the first to finally treat you like a woman rather than some fearful automaton like the men back in Cordonia viewed you as, doesn't mean you should lose your head.

Needing something to do while he made his way up to the fifteenth floor, she tried to find something to straighten up.

Her apartment was sparse and too neat for what she needed. Straightening the already perfect set of suggestions and graphs on her desk that Rashad had sent her, she couldn't quite keep her excited smile from peeping out.

Deep breaths, she commanded. Remember that you have been out with men before. This is nothing special. Just a first date. 

She opened her door at his knock.

Ethan's eyes swept down, taking everything in of the fiery duchess.

She stood there nervously, wondering if she was wearing the right type of dress. Was her hair wrong? Should she have left it cascading down her right shoulder? Perhaps--

"You look beautiful, Olivia." He breathed.

Averting her gaze so he couldn't see how happy that made her, she still managed to give herself away with her smile.

"Thank you." She managed to say. "You--"

Seeing him dressed in a blue suit that should have detracted from his eyes, yet instead made them pop with their brightness, she felt the need to sigh in appreciation.

Good lord! I've turned into Riley! I would rather die than sigh over a man wearing clothes that compliment his eyes.

"You look handsome as well." She stepped back. "Please, come in."

Ethan's lips quirked over the blush rising up her face.

He then caused her to go speechless when he handed her a bouquet of red roses.

Her lips parted to speak, but all she could do was stare at the blooms.

"I don't know what your favorite flower is, but I thought you would at least like the color." He explained.

"I do." She lifted her eyes up to his face. "I always liked roses." A smirk formed on her lips. "Something beautiful that isn't afraid to hurt someone with their thorns if they try and cut them has my approval."

Ethan's deep laugh filled her apartment as she searched for something to put them in.

"I forgot about their fighting prowess." His eyes followed her take her bouquet to her bedroom. "Now I know which flowers to surprise you with next time."

She felt a warmth form in the pit of her stomach at his teasing.

Then she realized he was thinking on them having another date...before this one had a chance to begin.

He really does like me. It isn't just in my head. There is something between us after all.

She gathered her clutch and a light wrap on her way back to Ethan.

He took it from her and gently draped the red silk along her shoulders. His hands smoothed it down her arms, causing her to suppress a shiver of delight.

"Ready?" He murmured near her ear.

With a nod, she led the way out the door.

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

A dive bar, Cordonia...

"I thought I would find you here."

Drake glanced up before focusing once more on the cue ball.

Maxwell patiently waited on his friend to respond.

Dropping his head in frustration, Drake tossed the pool stick down.

"What is it?"

"I have to go to Los Angeles again." Maxwell explained. "And I could make an extra stop along the way." He paused, drumming up the courage to say where. "If you want to go with me, I could drop you off in Boston."

Drake's glass had stopped partway to his lips. He eyed the man he thought barely paid attention to anyone at balls and such.

How did he know?

Unwilling to admit to anything, Drake merely cocked an eyebrow.

"Why would I want to go there?" His lips quirked. "See the spot where the colonists dumped all the tea?"

Maxwell ordered a drink and pulled up a barstool. "I know it isn't easy, seeing someone who you thought you had something with to end up with someone else."

Drake choked on his drink. "What are you talking about?"

"I'm talking about inaction to what is going on." Maxwell lowered his eyes. "To think you have all the time in the world to finally admit you do want more, just to end up as a guest at her wedding to some other man."

Drake's brow furrowed. "Did you and Nadia break up?"

"No." Maxwell tilted his glass, swirling the liquid around and around. "It doesn't matter now. The point is that I don't want to see you go through that." He took a swallow before standing up. "I leave the day after tomorrow. If you want to go and let Olivia know you've been miserable since she left, then meet me at the airport." He placed a hand on Drake's shoulder. "Don't make the mistake I did by giving another man a chance to sweep her off her feet."

Drake's lips parted to demand more of an explanation, only to see Maxwell walk out.

A part of him wanted to deny that Olivia was the reason he had withdrawn from everyone these past few months. The other part went through the chances that she would find anyone to put up with her strong personality.

It seemed more than likely that she would return single. He could then meet her on equal ground and pick up where they left off.

No reason at all to prostrate himself before her in Boston.

[resetmypatientviolence]

Labor & Delivery [TRH LI Headcanons]

Pairing: Liam x MC, Drake x MC, Hana x MC, Maxwell x MC

Word Count: 3,787

Rating: PG

Warnings: Language

Description: A glance into some head canons of TRH LI’s during labor and delivery for their bundle of joy. 

Author Note: Fluff! All fluff! Thank you for reading and I hope you enjoy a look into all four LI’s during labor and delivery. Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/drakewalkerwhipped Masterlist is found on my blog bio.

You should have known it would happen like this: water breaking in the middle of a ball. This child has already given you a run for your money, after all. The cramps throughout the day were nothing of concern, just something you could brush off while getting ready, your one and only watching you move around with equal bits worry and excitement.

Earlier, you laughed and twirled in your gown—one that finally didn’t feel too tight and uncomfortable. You were in a great mood, really, ready for the evening to unfold. “We have a week to go!” You said in your bedroom, gliding over to your expectant partner. “Stop being such a worrywart—let’s enjoy our last ball as a couple, and not parents, shall we?”

And of course, they swept you up into a kiss, their hands sliding along the very slightly cramping round of your stomach, and said, “As you wish.”

But they were right to be worried, for now you’re in the middle of the ballroom with a ruined dress because somebody couldn’t wait.

Well, you think, locking eyes with the only other person in the world who matters right now, it’s now or never, isn’t it?

Liam

Immediately, upon the realization that this child was coming, Liam calls upon the guards and holds your hand while you laugh at the situation. He finds it no laughing matter, however. “Are you in pain, my Queen?” When you give an answer he accepts (that isn’t any variation of no, but he will accept, “It doesn’t hurt much”), you’re whisked off to the hospital surrounded by a horde of guards. On your way there, you tighten your grip on Liam’s hand when the contractions make their appearance. Liam gives you a tight smile and glances at his watch, keeping time.

At first, he’s perfect. How can he not be? Liam packed the hospital bag a month ago. He had the birth plan memorized forwards and backwards. All you need to do was play on your phone, groan when the contractions strike, and sneak food from Liam’s snack stash while he handles the handpicked team of nurses, doctors, hospital staff, and constant media requests for an update on the baby. It’s bliss. Your labor couldn’t be more… relaxing, if that’s a thing.

Liam paces an inhumane amount while you wait, labor taking its sweet time. It’s cute to watch how scrunched up his face gets when he’s worried about something. You smile for the first few hours about that.

When you take laps around the hospital halls to urge this little royal heir along, Liam holds your hand when he doesn’t have a hand on your lower back, helping you waddle. “Are you hanging in there, love?” You throw your head back and laugh. “I’m hanging is as much as this stubborn baby is, dear. You worry too much. Be excited!” He kisses your temple, creases disappearing from his forehead for the meanwhile.

He refuses to leave. Even if your legs are up in the air for all to see as the doctors make sure things are progressing as they should be. You’ve had more flattering angles and days. “Liam, you can nap, go to the palace for a few hours, they said--” But he shakes his head and kisses your forehead. You wince at the cool metal against you. “I’m not leaving your side. I’m not missing a minute of this.” And you smile, kissing him back. “You’re lucky you’re so sweet.”

Liam’s never been one to nap. A king doesn’t have time to nap, he reasons. And there’s no exception here, jolting awake every minute or so while sitting next to you, waiting. Hell, even when you manage some sleep, he’s there by your side, eyes darting between the monitor, belly, and face, the creases back.

Once active labor (finally) kicks in... you’ve only seen Liam rare form like this a few times.  This is one of those times. Gone is his kingly composure and before you— or behind you, rubbing your back as you moan in pain— is Liam, stripped of everything except for himself. His hands are a comfort when you beg for a massage, fingers gently feeding your ice chips, replacing the washcloth on your forehead or rubbing the cool cloth on your face and neck and chest as the pain is all you feel.

Why did you agree to a natural birth? It sounded so nice on paper. The doctors can’t talk sense into you while you demand for an epidural, but somehow, Liam does. You look into his eyes as he says. “Love, it’s too late. Our baby will be here any minute—all you need to do is push. Push a little bit and it’ll be over, I promise.” His words soothe and you calm, gripping the bedside bars with a renewed energy to get this out.

Liam’s perfect. Almost… too perfect. So perfect in fact, you’re annoyed. You shouldn’t be annoyed. He’s just telling you everything the birthing classes discussed, holds your hand (even when you’re sure you’re going to break it), but dear god, if you hear, “Count with me, breathe,” “Push down and they’ll be here,” “You’re almost there,” (When you’re decidedly… not almost there), you’ll lose it. He’s done nothing wrong but yet—“Liam, I love you, but I need you to be quiet until this baby is born otherwise I’m going to step down as Queen.” You don’t mean it, of course, and he raises an eyebrow but holds out an ice chip. You take it, grumbling thanks.

Liam didn’t plan to leave your side while you push, but when the doctor asks if he wants to help deliver his child, well, there’s no doubt what Liam does next as you give the final pushes. Sleeves rolled up, you meet your husbands’ eyes and he smiles, looking more sure than ever, as if he was always ready for this. But of course he was, you think, then give one final yell and push.

And despite the beautiful cry that bursts forth, you’ll ever—ever—forget the look on Liam’s face: a joy like no other, and one that can never be seen again.

Drake

You’ve never seen Drake turn that pale. And you should have expected that he’d drop his glass of whiskey and rush over to you, other nobles grumbles about the whiskey staining their clothing. “It’s time? Is it really time?” He says, breathless, taking your hands. You smile and nod, squeezing his hands in time to the contraction. “Mmhmm. Are you ready?” He shakes his head. “Is anybody every ready?” And Drake shoos away the crowd as you leave, well wishes to be had, but none of that matters as you hold tight onto him, ready to venture into the unknown.

“Drake, you can’t tell the media to fuck off and ignore them.” He huffs, handing you his phone. You roll your eyes—this isn’t unexpected. You type out a quick message for Madeleine to send to the press and hand it back. “Though… it would be satisfying,” you add. There’s no denying that.“But we’re literally having the heir to Cordonia… so we can’t have things completely private as we want.” Drake says nothing, but he walks over and rubs your back, eyeing the IV in your hand.

He has an odd habit of peeking out the window. At first it’s cute but then it’s annoying hearing the blinds chatter together. You’re trying to read while waiting for this baby to appear. “Drake…” You groan. He instantly turns to you, blinds making that godawful sound. “Why are you looking out the window like we’re on a spaceship?” His answer is no surprise. “There’s more and more media outside…” “You do realize that we are in a very private wing of the hospital where nobody can access us, correct?” He takes a long while to answer. “…Yes.” You nod, motioning to the blinds. “Good. Because the next time you touch those blinds, I will request that you be thrown out the window. Got it?” Needless to say, he doesn’t look outside again.

Drake turns out to be an amazing ice chip getter. In fact, he knows to get them before you even know you need more. You’re always about to ask for more, but he has a full cup with a smile and a brightness in his eyes that you haven’t seen before.

There’s a period of time while you’re dozing that Drake leaves. You told him to, anyways, because despite the water breaking making a dramatic display for all of Cordonia to see, this child is as stubborn as their father. You expected he’d get some breakfast, maybe a nap, but what you didn’t expect was to wake up to a full bouquet of flowers and a new stuffed animal for whenever this baby arrives. You also didn’t expect to cry so hard.

Good god, his foot rubs are to simply die for. And all you need to do for one is to point your foot and give a little whimper. Score.

His hair is an utter mess as the labor goes on… and gets more intense. You’ve never seen him run his hand through it so many times. He mostly does it when the doctor provides an update, when he paces in boredom, or when you’re in the middle of a contraction. One hand holding yours and urging you to squeeze his and the other in his hair, watching on with concern. It would be funny if you weren’t in so much pain.

There’s a shock when you want to walk around yourself and Drake almost doesn’t let you. However, the glare you give him shuts up his worries and he follows you around like a lost puppy, ready to catch you if you fell. He’s jumpy, too, the squeak of a gurney making him jump and stumble into a nurse’s station. The laughter that follows is what makes you realize— “Shit, it’s actually time.”

“When you said it’s time…” He trails off while you glare daggers, throwing him the finger. The nurses chuckle. “Would you sincerely like to trade places, Walker? I can assure you I’m more than willing.” He glances to the stirrups and the group of doctors and nurses observing you as you wait for the next command to push. “… I’m good. Here,” he says, taking your hand. “You can break my hand if you want to for that. I deserve it for that comment.” Despite the anger, you only smile and squeeze lightly until you push.

If you thought Drake losing all color when your water broke was funny, you didn’t expect to see him literally turn green as you push, bearing down to urge this miracle into existence. Actually, the nurses seem concerned that he’s about to pass out, but he shakes his head and looks again, greener than ever, but eyes shining with tears as you push one final time.

And despite the beautiful cry that bursts forth, you’ll ever—ever—forget the look on Drake’s face: a joy like no other, and one that can never be seen again.

Hana

She’s like an angel, gliding over to you in the middle of a crowded ballroom. She plants a kiss on your nose, a smile breaking out on her face. But… you know she’s nervous. It’s in her eyes. There’s no doubt. But, like throughout all of this pregnancy, Hana is a picture of peace and serenity. It’s a balancing act for you, her calm the perfect offset to the stress of carrying the heir to Cordonia. “Are you ready to do this?” she asks, folding your hands in hers. You nod and offer a shaky smile. Hana touches her forehead to yours, a soft smile on her lips. “Don’t worry… I’m nervous too. But… I think we’re more than ready. Don’t you?” You nod and let her guide you away from the chaos of the ballroom. She’s right, after all. You are.

As planned, the hospital room is a cozy and calm. After you’re hooked up to machines left and right, Hana hums while she sets up twinkle lights. When the doctors don’t need to check anything, she flips off the light and the room goes from cold, stark, and sterile to warm, cozy, and peaceful, Hana’s face shining in the low and familiar light. “This was a perfect idea,” you whisper, looking around like a child on Christmas morning. Hana grins and gently sets a hand on your stomach, looking at it fondly. “I saw it on one of those birthing tips lists.” You smirk, touching her hand. “And how many of those did you read?” “… I stopped counting after fifteen.”

Hana’s more prepared than you for this. No, it’s the truth. It makes sense to you, as you observe the questions she asks your midwife and doula, or the suggestions she offers you to make your labor more comfortable, helping you get into a position… that does actually alleviate the pain. From the moment you started IVF, Hana was preparing. Reading everything, taking notes, and offering any help she could to make morning sickness go away or to ease your back pain. She packed and repacked the hospital bag at least a dozen times, finding something new that offered other suggestions and tips. You’re grateful for it, really. Easiest pregnancy ever with a wife like her.

Hana refuses—utterly refuses—to leave your side. Maxwell turns out to be her errand boy… at least until you’re unable to speak. Then it’s only you, Hana, and the women who are going to help bring this baby into the world.

“I’ve been practicing this,” Hana says, dabbing your forehead with a washcloth. You raise an eyebrow. “And I think it might help this baby come by focusing on your body.” You touch Hana’s warm cheek, smiling slightly. “Hana, I love you, but I don’t think meditation while in labor will make this baby come, nor distract me from the pain.” Hana laughs, touching your hand on her cheek. “I know. But… it’s worth a shot, right? What else do we have to do?” You blink. “You brought cards though…” Turns out, the meditation was helpful. Calming, even through a contraction. But you still preferred playing cards with her over meditation. Something about how ruthlessly she made you draw four even if you’re the one in labor made you grin and forget about your worries.

She knows how far apart your contractions are before the doctors say it. Also, you don’t have to speak as to how you’re doing for you give Hana one look and she knows, relaying everything to whoever needs to know that yes, it hurts, and when will it be over.

She snaps a picture when you’re not looking, standing up and pondering what’s about to happen. Hana comes up and shows you. The past few weeks you’ve refused pictures because… well, look at you… but this moment is somehow beautiful under the low light and cradling your stomach, looking out the window. “You have never been more beautiful to me,” Hana says, chin in your shoulder. Your face gets warm. “Even if I’m a giant beach ball?” She chuckles, bringing her arms around your waist. “The miracle of birth is one of the most beautiful things in life… and the strongest, most visceral thing a human can do.” You can’t help but notice the twinge of sadness there. You grip her hands, nuzzling your cheek against her head. “Therefore, you are the most beautiful thing in the world right now to me…. Oh no! Don’t cry!”

There’s only one time when Hana leaves the room. It’s when—somehow—a rouge paparazzi got into the hospital wing. You could hear her yelling from down the hall. Your doula snickers. “Never let me get on her bad side.” You snort and nod. “You’d never survive.”

Hana gets in the water with you as you moan low, leaning on your arms. You both agreed on a waterbirth, and you have to admit that the water is a relief to sink into as the final parts of labor pick up and delivery is near. She wastes no time shedding her clothes and jumps in in only her underwear to rub your back and to pull your hair back and out of your face. “Hana…” You mumble, almost in a meditative state. “Is the baby here yet?” Her hands feel so, so good on your back. “Soon,” she whispers, chatter picking up around you. “Very, very soon. Just a little bit more and I promise they’ll be here and in our arms.”

The only time Hana breaks her composure is when you’re pushing. She’s out of the water, but she’s right behind you in the tub. You hold her hands as you yell, and she yells alongside you, tears streaming down her cheeks as she—and the midwives and doula and doctor—watch your long awaited child be born and you bring them to your arms and out of the water, Hana’s happy sob in your ear.   

And despite the beautiful cry that bursts forth, you’ll ever—ever—forget the look on Hana’s face: a joy like no other, and one that can never be seen again.

Maxwell

There’s only a moment of panic before Maxwell smiles and dances his way over to you. “Alright! I told you dramatic entrances were part of the Beaumont genes! Let’s have a baby!” You’re taken aback by his enthusiasm… and apparently, so are others, everybody staring at him. Maxwell looks around, the wraps his arm around your waist. “Why the long faces? The heir to Cordonia is about to grace the world!” “…They’re not coming now….” “Well, then why stop the party because we’ve got to leave? DJ, play something good!” And you exit to Apple Bottom Jeans, bopping your head. 

“Andddddddd smile!” You flash Maxwell a grin and a thumbs up. He looks at the photo and shows you. “Even more beautiful than earlier.” You laugh and lay back in the bed. “I’m not wearing make-up and my hair is a mess.” Maxwell tucks his phone away—for now—and kisses your cheek. “I said what I said. And besides, what’s more beautiful than my wife having a baby?” You arch an eyebrow. “Many things.” “You just aren’t looking hard enough.”

It’s not very comfortable having a handful of people inspect you, but Maxwell’s the perfect distraction. He’s currently doing a magic trick that he just learned and you laugh so hard you sneeze.

“Maxwell… are you… are you livetweeting this?!” The answer is there in your hand: yes. Yes he is. 5 centimeters down, 5 more to go!Maxwell shrugs. “The people want to know. Why have Madeleine give a stuffy statement when we can make birth… fun.” You consider this… and he has a point. “Well… when you put it that way, even I don’t think birth is fun… it makes sense.” And livetweeting is still a go! Stay tuned for my world record ice chip run.

You both agreed that you wanted some footage of the labor for the baby. Though, you didn’t expect Maxwell to walk around and point out everything in the room for them… you do appreciate it, oddly enough, watching him explain everything in detail. Though he has a smile on his face, you know that this is his nervousness rearing its head. It’s endearing, honestly, and when you’re not grimacing in pain when another contraction comes, you watch him with a smile. “And know, even if your Mom yells really awful things at me, we love each other but most importantly, we love you.”

You’re pretty sure Liam, Hana, and probably Drake would be appalled at the state of your hospital bag. Even the doctors look judgey but… whatever. You don’t care. You have mostly everything you need. Maybe Maxwell could have done without the yo-yo… but, to be fair, the baby is making a surprise appearance. “Maxwell… did we agree on a take home outfit?” You ask between increasingly close contractions. “And did we pack it?” “Um…” He walks over to the bag and rifles through it. He doesn’t answer for a minute, then taps his phone and slowly brings it to his ear. “Hey, Bertrand… I need you to do me a big, big favor. I promise the next bash won’t have peacocks this time.”

How many selfies can one man take throwing up an open mouthed smile while you glare in the background in half of them? The limit does not exist, apparently.

Maxwell keeps a smile on your face the entire time—only when he doesn’t, the damn phone up in your face while you start pushing. Oh, and he’s narrating the entire moment for the baby. “And now, your Mom is trying to get you out so we can meet you. As you can see, it’s great—” “Maxwell, I will shove that phone up your—” “Andddddd the next time you see us on the screen, you’ll be in our arms. We love you!” He doesn’t touch it again, but to be fair—he doesn’t have time to.

Maxwell clings to you, his smile slowly fading with each push, eyes wide as can be, watching this process… from your view. He hasn’t dared peek at what’s happening below. You hold tight onto his hands but he doesn’t wince once, only watching with his jaw dropped at your effort. “You’re doing amazing,” he breathes. “Almost there… right? Is she almost…?” The doctor glances up. “Do you want to see for yourself?” He grins and Maxwell pales. “I… I…” “See—see for me,” you huff and nudge him forward. “Please?” Maxwell gulps and squeezes back. “Okay…. I’m about to see my baby be born… totally normal thing to see….” When he gets in place, jaw dropping, you give one final push--

And despite the beautiful cry that bursts forth, you’ll ever—ever—forget the look on Maxwell’s face: a joy like no other, and one that can never be seen again.

That, and the fact that Maxwell faints a second later.

You jolt awake, heart pounding, looking around. Where were you and what—

But then you remember… and your eyes settle on the sight next to you. You smile at the moonlight falling on your sleeping partner with a perfect little bundle in their arms, sound asleep too. You brush a tear away in the quiet, in the peace. Life’s perfect, no matter how long or hard it took to get here. And they’re perfect.

The both of them.

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[jovialyouthmusic]

Silver Service

Both Madeleine and Lucretia get closer to the truth, and Liam and Olivia fear for their future.

Word Count 3522

A/N Warnings - implied smut, and discussion of attempted murder.

18 Revelations

‘So it’s positive’ Sophia said, referring to Olivia’s pregnancy test. Bastien frowned and put his fingers to his lips before speaking loudly.

‘Yes, the reception for the fashion show was very good’ he replied. He beckoned her over to the desk in their suite, where he had his laptop set up while he organised security rotas remotely with Lewis, who had gone on to Krona. He and Sophia would be following the day after, along with the King’s security detail. He tapped away on the screen and turned it toward her.

Must be careful of eavesdroppers. he had typed Maid cleaning in bedroom. Sophia nodded, but she sat on the edge of the desk.

‘You know, you really did an excellent job modelling’ she said huskily ‘I’d like to see your technique again. It really impressed me how fast you could change. Perhaps if you did it again, more slowly, I could do a little critique’ She made a gesture toward the bedroom with her head, and Bastien frowned for a moment before catching on.

‘I’m not planning on making it a career’ he said loudly ‘But I’m always looking to improve my performance – in all areas’

‘Well, let’s take this to the bedroom then’ she purred, pitching her voice toward the adjoining door. At that, the maid appeared suddenly, her face flushed. Sophia jumped away from Bastien, feigning surprise.

‘I forgot the sheets’ the maid said, flustered ‘I’ll come back later’ and scurried out, head down.

‘Well done’ Bastien said ‘That got rid of her – now I’d better do a sweep to see if she’s planted anything.’ He strode into the room and scanned it, first visually, then skimming his fingertips along walls and under ledges. He reached into his pocket for a small gadget with a button and a dial, and stood looking at it for a while. Finally he turned to Sophia.

‘It’s okay, no listening devices that I can detect. I think she was just eavesdropping.’ He paused by a drawer at the dressing table and opened it. ‘Maybe she was going through these as well’ he speculated.

‘She was acting rather suspiciously’ Sophia affirmed ‘She couldn’t leave fast enough when we said we’d move into the bedroom.’ Bastien looked thoughtful

‘What did you do with the receipt from the chemist?’ he asked. Although every noble house kept stock of various supplies from chemists and pharmacists for general use, he thought it better that she get something for Olivia off premises so it couldn’t be traced. She looked around for her purse, which rested on the dressing table.

‘Stop’ Bastien said ‘Think when you last had it – is it in the same place? Do you think it’s been tampered with?’ Sophia hummed in thought

‘Hmm, I thought I’d left it on the back of the chair’ she said. Bastien cursed under his breath

‘I’m sorry Sophia, I should have told you to dispose of it discretely – preferably not here at the Manor’ She huffed.

‘I wasn’t expecting anyone to go through my handbag’ she retorted. Bastien sighed

‘I forget you don’t have the training’ he said ‘She had time to look through it – let me see’ She took the receipt out of the bag and gave it to him. He groaned

‘That’s pretty specific’ He said heavily ‘She’ll know exactly what you bought if she saw it. I wonder if anyone’s asking her to do this, or if she’s just naturally nosy’

‘She’d think the test was for me, surely’ Sophia said. Bastien shook his head

‘Staff at these places are used to their clients being crafty’ he said ‘Gossip spreads like wildfire, and it’s known I’ve – well’ he paused and reached out to her apologetically. ‘I’ve been as discrete as I can over the years with my romantic involvements, but it may be known that I’ve had a vasectomy – many of the unmarried Guards do’ Sophia sucked in her breath. He rubbed her arm consolingly as she dropped her head. ‘You know I’m just with you now, don’t you?’ he said gently ‘I never encourage anyone else – ever’ She drew a shaky breath and nodded.

‘I know’ she said ‘I just don’t like being reminded’ He stood back and started to unfasten his tie, gazing at her as he did so.

‘Now then, Missy’ he said ‘I believe you wanted to see me undress?’ Sophia perked up and sat on the edge of the bed, biting her lip.

‘Any time, agápe mou’ she purred.

------

Madeleine sat back in the plush seat of the limo. Her mother snored softly, head lolling on the headrest as they made their way back to Krona. Penelope’s maid had told Madeleine about the purchasing of a pregnancy test, and revealed that Olivia had not been eating at breakfast, but she wanted to be methodical and eliminate the other ladies at Applewood. It couldn’t be Sophia – everyone knew her lover had never gotten anyone pregnant. Either he was firing blanks naturally or was sterilised – though the thought occurred to her that he was just the person who could probably hide something like an unwanted pregnancy. Lady Hana wasn’t seeing anyone, and Madeleine had always had the idea that she preferred women – or would, once she’d admitted it to herself. Drake was too savvy to get anyone pregnant – he’d bedded many of the ladies of the court and a lot of staff too and couldn’t afford any ‘accidents’ so it wasn’t likely to be Riley. Kiara struck her as a very conscientious young woman, sexually active, and most likely on birth control as pregnancy would certainly put a stop to her career ambitions.

The most likely candidate was Olivia then – and she must be sleeping with Liam. He certainly wasn’t stupid or reckless enough to get anyone accidentally pregnant. Had they got some sort of arrangement? When she had them staying at Karlingford she’d soon find out, she told herself.

------

‘Excuse me’ Olivia’s aide, Ruby, addressed the major domo at Karlingford, who looked up from his clipboard with an air of irritation.

‘I’m very busy, is it important?’ he snapped.

‘It most certainly is’ Ruby gave as good as she got. This snooty soft lowlander wasn’t going to get the better of a mountain dwelling Lythican. ‘Lady Olivia is not pleased with her quarters’ Harold sighed in annoyance.

‘Lady Madeleine allocated the rooms personally, and has given Lady Olivia the second best suite available. May I ask what is wrong with that?’

‘It may be your idea of luxury, but as you know, we Lythicans care nothing for soft beds and gilded ornaments. The placement is not to her liking. Lady Olivia has important business with the King and needs to be close by so he can call on her services at short notice’

‘It’s too late to change anything now’ Harold sniffed ‘Guests have been arriving all morning and it’s simply too difficult to make any alterations to the arrangements’

‘Would you like to explain that to Lady Olivia herself?’ Ruby asked ‘or perhaps the King might make a request in person when he discovers how inconvenient your allocation is’ Harold swallowed.

‘I’ll take another look at the schematic’ he said unsteadily ‘Karlingford is of course honoured to have the new King under our care, and Lord Godfrey has always been a gracious host’

‘Lady Olivia will be eager to hear from you. She’ll be in the King’s suite for now’ Ruby asserted, and went back to report to her boss.

------

Despite Madeleine’s efforts, the polo match was lacklustre. The weather was overcast and drizzly – not so wet to have to cancel, but enough to make both riders and horses cold and miserable. The stands were half full and spectators huddled in their waterproof coats under umbrellas. The donations were generous enough for the renovation of the main library, but only just managed to scrape past what they had hoped to raise. The afternoon tea served at Karlingford didn’t fare much better as gusts of wind threatened to blow the marquees away and all the bright summer outfits that folk usually wore to such events were discarded for warmer duller clothes.

The Duke was in a foul temper, and the King claimed he had to leave early to return to the Palace before carrying on to Lord Delacour’s residence in the Cormery Isles and the nobles’ golf tournament. Lady Olivia also left not long after.

However, Madeleine did discover that Olivia did indeed skip breakfast each day and was not seen before midday for the few days she was there. She couldn’t get much more information, as the rooms she had set up to eavesdrop on her were reallocated to Lord Delacour when Olivia demanded closer quarters to Liam, and she had her own maid brought over from Lythikos, refusing entry to any of Madeleine’s staff. Lord Neville was only too pleased to be staying in such a grand suite and was insufferably smug for his entire visit.

That fact actually played into her hands, as it meant Lord Neville was only too eager to help her in her efforts to spy on the Nevrakis heir. Sadly she heard not long after that Olivia would not be going to the Cormery Isles, but would be in Lythikos personally assisting in arranging the early winter sports events. She suspected that she and Liam would be spending some time together, but had no way of knowing for sure.

One thing Madeleine could do while she was at her father’s manor was to try and get more information out of her mother. Although she was notorious for bedding younger men, she didn’t do so when her husband was around. She would have spent her evenings with Regina, but the Queen Mother was spending hers with Lord Domvalier. Lord Godfrey spent as much time as he could with the King, and when he wasn’t available, would instead pay a visit to the Beaumonts or Delacoeurs or other worthy noble families.

That left Madeleine and Adelaide in each others’ company one night, and patiently she plied her mother with champagne and let her ramble on about whatever subject she cared to talk about. First of all she bemoaned the fact that Maxwell Beaumont was under her roof and she couldn’t lay a finger on him, then got rather maudlin and complained that Bastien now had a partner and had eyes for no-one else.

‘That man is dynamite in the bedroom’ she sighed ‘Maddy, you need a good man to keep you happy. Are you still a virgin?’ When she didn’t answer, she waved her hand dismissively ‘I can’t believe Leo didn’t at least sample what he could have had’ Madeleine gritted her teeth.

‘Mother, that’s really not appropriate’ she said ‘I might ask you what happened when you disappeared last month.’ Adelaide rolled her eyes and dropped her head back.

‘Okay sweetie, I know when I’m beaten. You’ve got a pretty low opinion of me already, what could it hurt?’ She sat forward in her chair to pour more champagne, but didn’t drink any. She looked at her hands, turning her wedding ring round and round on her finger.

‘I’m listening. I can’t promise not to judge, but I’ll try’

‘I – well, I went to Monaco to meet someone. He likes to play games with – you know being dominant. I’ll spare you those details’ Madeleine’s blood ran cold as she listened ‘He – he tried to kill me, like I said. ‘He…’ She closed her eyes and tears squeezed out ‘He injected me with heroin and left me to die.’ Madeleine couldn’t speak – she was filled with rage against the perpetrator. Whatever her mother was – drunk, lush, cougar – she didn’t deserve to die. It was a while before her mother spoke again, so she handed her a tissue and sat next to her on the couch. She both wanted and didn’t want to know more. Why? Who? Her mind span.

‘If – if it wasn’t for the young man I’d met on the plane going to Monaco, I wouldn’t be here now’ she sobbed ‘He found me and called an ambulance’

‘Who was he?’ Madeleine asked in a strangled tone.

‘He said he’d followed me deliberately – that both Bastien and the King knew where I was going’ she went on ‘They asked if I’d press charges, that he was working with Anton Severus and the Sons of the Earth. I said I wouldn’t, because then you’d find out – and your father – and – and everyone’ She broke into fresh sobs and Madeleine sat trembling with horror and anger, unable to leave her mother’s side. Her hand hovered over her shoulder but didn’t land.

‘In the end I didn’t have to say anything, they caught up with them later. Bastien wouldn’t tell me the details, he wouldn’t even see me, he passed it over to Lewis’

‘This is outrageous’ Madeleine spat ‘How could they let them get away with this? There must be some way of getting retribution without the news getting out’

‘Please Maddy, don’t meddle with things’ Adelaide pleaded ‘I’ve learned my lesson, I won’t fall for something like that again’ Madeleine glowered – she couldn’t see how her mother could keep that promise. She knew who she had to talk to next, and it couldn’t wait.

-------

Bastien cursed as his phone pinged. Sophia lay beside him, fast asleep, and he too had been out for the count. He looked blearily at the screen, blinking at the bright light. Lewis, now on duty for the night shift, informed him that Lady Madeleine wanted to speak with him urgently and she was waiting in her study. He passed his hand over his face and swung his legs out onto the floor. He’d been expecting this though not at such a late hour, and went over the details of her mother’s situation in his head, rehearsing how much he could tell her daughter without compromising security.

Had he been anywhere else, he would have told her to go to his office, but she was on home ground. The only thing he could do to keep the upper hand was to get dressed as if for work, and take his time over it.

‘Mmmm’ Sophia murmured, stirring at his movements ‘What is it, Bas?’

‘Go back to sleep theá mou’ he said gently ‘It’s work – nothing for you to worry about though, a minor matter that I have to see to’ She muttered again, unintelligibly, and was snoring gently before he’d finished getting dressed. He took his time making his way to meet Madeleine, and presented himself with a calm demeanour.

‘Mr Lykel, you took your time’ the so called Ice Queen was uncharacteristically agitated.

‘What can I do for you, your Grace?’ he asked coolly.

‘It has come to my attention that you had some knowledge of an attempt to kill my mother’ she said, voice shaking a little. ‘I demand you tell me what you know, and bring the guilty party to justice’

‘This is a delicate matter, your Grace’ he replied ‘May I sit?’ She nodded in irritation, and also sat behind her desk, but she wrung her hands together as he went on

‘May I ask why you think this is the case, Lady Madeleine?’ he asked

‘She told me’ she said shortly ‘Why haven’t you dealt with this matter already?’

‘I can assure you that the matter is in hand, but it may cause repercussions if it got out into the public domain’

‘I don’t care if everyone knows it, or just you and me. I demand you deal with it in a satisfactory manner’ Bastien sighed

‘Exactly what did Lady Adelaide tell you?’ he asked

‘Enough’ she said, enraged ‘She also told me that a certain Mr Nazario was involved. Who is he?’

‘I can only reiterate that all this is extremely sensitive information and ties in with the security of Crown and State. His Majesty is aware of the situation, and I can assure you that your mother’s assailant will answer for his crime’

‘Mr Lykel, I’m sure you can appreciate that I was at one point close to being Queen of Cordonia, and the King has chosen no-one else’ she said persistently ‘I caution you that in the future you may regret any refusal to assist me’

‘I suggest that you take up the matter with his Majesty’ Bastien said, stony faced.

‘How convenient that he’s not here right now’ she said in a low tone.

‘Then you may have to wait until you see him in person. I cannot break his confidence’ Madeleine practically growled as she went on

‘Mr Lykel, if I am ever in a position to be your superior, your employment will be terminated and I will hire people who will be more co-operative.’

‘If you were my superior I would tell you what you needed to know and serve you appropriately. Unfortunately, I plan to retire from the Guard shortly, so that will not be an issue’ he said, omitting to tell her that he would also be part of Liam’s reformed Council. ‘Will that be all?’ He asked ‘It’s very late and I’m officially off duty’ Madeleine glowered at him.

‘You may leave’ she spat ‘but this isn’t the end of the matter’

------

Olivia decided to visit Lucretia on her way back to Lythikos. She had been moved from a maximum security facility and was under house arrest in a cottage in the grounds of the Palace. The King’s guard had swept the Palace for explosives and listening devices, but had only come across equipment that the previous King had installed to keep tabs on his guests, some of which were known to them and others that were not. Bastien was not one hundred per cent happy with the security of the Palace just yet, but Liam’s quarters had passed muster, as had all the other accommodation suites in both the main part of the Palace and the staff wing. Places like the ballroom, library and other common areas were still being checked and were off limits to all but the Guard and Army personnel.

Lucretia still refused to talk to anyone about her role in the assassination at the coronation. She was free to move around the cottage as much as she wished, but had a security detail if she ventured outside. She was known to take walks every day before lunch, so Olivia had the Palace cook prepare some Lythican cookies as a gift, and went to visit her in the afternoon when she might be taking tea.  Her aunt was waiting in her lounge, and rose to greet her.

‘You’re looking pale’ she remarked ‘Life in the lowlands doesn’t suit you’

‘If it makes you any happier, I’ll be going there tomorrow to organise the arrangements for the Royal Charity tour’

‘Oh, that’ Lucretia said ‘Constantine’s spawn is trying to curry favour with his subjects’

‘You really shouldn’t call him that’ Olivia flushed with anger ‘He’s nothing like his father’

‘Then he won’t hold on to power for long. If nothing else, his Father knew how to do that at least. Sadly it meants house Severus has had a hard fight to regain their rightful position. How is your husband?’

‘I wouldn’t know’ Olivia said shortly, and put the box of cookies on the table. ‘If you’d like to make tea, I brought Knophlinken.’ For a split second, Lucretia’s pupils darkened. Olivia knew she loved them, as she often had them made when she was a child. They were hard, strongly spiced and barely sweet at all. Her aunt opened the box and inhaled the scent.

‘Almost’ she said shortly ‘Too much cinnamon – but I suppose you can only get the real thing from Lythikos. I’m guessing they were made in the Palace’

‘Indeed’ replied Olivia ‘Liam had some spices sent from the Lodge’

‘Well I suppose they will do’ She rang a little bell for the maid she was allowed to employ and ordered her to make tea for them both.

‘So you refuse to visit your husband’ Lucretia went on ‘I must admit he’s not the man he should be. If he was, I wouldn’t have had to step in and accelerate his ascension to the throne. Sadly he was too slow or too stupid to take advantage of things. That, and Mr Lykel was lucky to spot the assassin I hired before he dispatched the King and Prince.’

‘I think you’ll find that was skill, and not luck’ Olivia said coolly. The maid came in with a tray of tea things. In Lythikos, it was served with hot spiced milk and never with sugar. Olivia found that the aroma of the spices turned her delicate stomach as her aunt went to pour it, and she dry heaved. Her aunt stared at her, narrowing her eyes, and Olivia’s blood ran cold.

‘Are the spices not to your taste my dear?’ she asked archly ‘Or could it be that you’re going to bear a child – the spawn of the Rys dynasty?’

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