#godfrey karlington

[heauxplesslydevoted]

[rysandraines]

So I guess every duke of karlington is a traitorous dick

[endlessflame]

Go get him, Bastien!

[lizzybeth1986]

What did you think of the conversation between Godfrey and Barthelemy? Idk if its paranoia or all the plot holes, but it seemed as though they didn't like Liam's mother, and we know she was poisoned. However, I do doubt they'd have them be a part of that since one is a Beaumont and the other is the parent of a character they're trying to redeem

I had similar thoughts (and also felt - like countless others must have guessed already - that the conversations between Godfrey and Barthelemy in the Young!Bertrand scene and between the Constantine and Eleanor in the Young!Drake scene were connected) and if indeed they were involved it would be the ultimate irony. Especially when you take into account that the present-day titleholders in charge of the duchies that may have been trying to undermine the Crown in different ways (Bertrand of Ramsford, Madeleine of Fydelia/Krona, Olivia of Lythikos) are now among the Crown's staunchest allies. I'm also wondering whether any of this is tied to what Olivia is looking into.

(But also, the retconning is everywhere and I don't think think The Royal Heir is an appropriate title for this book anymore).

[alj4890]

Hi you are awesome! Got an ask. What do you think will happen if the gang found out that Barthelemy along the others involved was behind Queen Eleanor's deat, just after days of him threatening to take the Princess and be a regent?I want to know Liam's POV on it.

Aww!!! Thank you ☺Honestly, I think Liam would have figured it out when he realized the goblet was from both Godfrey and Barthelemy. He was the one to devote his free time to secretly study the effects of poisons and ways it could be administered. Once the group found his mother's secret room, I think it would have all come together in his mind. For your request though, I will try and show Liam's reaction if he discovered the connection after Barthelemy's threat. Plus, I think this is one circumstance where he wouldn't want to involve the others. To be able to capture his mother's murderer would be something he would want to do himself with the help of his king's guards.

@gkittylove99 @darley1101 @krsnlove @kingliam2019 @texaskitten30 @yourmajesty09 @mom2000aggie @ofpixelsandscribbles @twinkleallnight @lodberg @twinkleallnight @amandablink @neotericthemis @mm2305

Masterlist

Subversion

"I've got you." Liam gently took his wife's trembling form into his arms.

The nightmares were getting out of hand.

Ever since Maxwell's father had threatened to take their daughter from them, Riley's nerves were shot. She tried so hard to put on a brave face during the day, but when night came across the land, she fell apart.

Tears slipped down her cheeks as she held fast to Liam. Her breaths hitched at the thought of Barthelemy Beaumont winning in the end.

"How did he get so many of the court on his side?" She whispered. "After all we've done for them!"

Liam rested his cheek on top of her head. "I don't know."

"He's been gone for what...fifteen, twenty years or so?" She grumbled. "We saved the country from Justin. We secured the throne with Eleanor's birth." Her anger began to overcome her fear. "And these traitors do this to us?!"

"The court serves its on purposes." He explained. "They always have. It is rare to find a truly selfless noble amongst the group."

Riley left his arms to reach for a tissue on her nightstand. "I saw how selfish they could be during your bride search."

She blew her nose softly before a frown firmed her lips. "I mean, the whole reason Bertrand wanted me to win you was so House Beaumont could be restored, reputation wise. He said he also wanted to see us happy, but now I doubt it."

Liam listened quietly as she went through her nightly rants of those that had betrayed them. She then went into a litany of how ridiculous it was that they had to travel with a one year old to their homes in the hopes of swaying their fickle minds back in their favor.

Before long, she had worn herself out and began to doze off. He held her until he felt her slow deep breaths. Easing his arms away, he crept out of their bedroom.

As had been his nightly ritual for the past year, he first went to the nursery.

His lips curved over his one year old daughter's tendency to cocoon herself in her blankets. Eleanor's head and that of the purple stuffed bunny she loved to sleep with were the only things visible.

He tenderly brushed her hair from her forehead as he gazed upon his most prized possession. His inner resolve hardened with the vow that nothing would ever take her from him and Riley.

On his way out of the nursery, he paused to pet Chance. The sweet corgi seemed to almost understand that something was going on and that he needed to guard the little princess. Lady Luck and their puppies were curled up at the foot of the toddler bed, being the next line of defense if Chance failed.

Liam quietly closed the door and continued downstairs. He nodded briefly to the guards that were stationed at various points along the halls and staircase. None seemed surprised by their king up at such a late hour.

Why should they, when he had been doing this for a year now?

Liam met Bastien in his study. The older man handed him a steaming cup of coffee, before sitting down across from him.

The workspace between them was covered with pictures, reports, and test results.

"Anything new?" Liam asked.

"I received this from one of my underground informants." Bastien handed over a set of photographs. "And I uncovered this report through the help of the queen mother. We came across this while going through your late father's personal files."

Liam's lips firmed into a thin line as he flipped through the old photographs. Barthelemy had made a wide variety of friends during his supposed' "coma".

"Is that...?" Liam handed the picture over.

"It is, sir." Bastien reached across the table for another set of photographs. "Lord Barthelemy along with Godfrey had been developing close ties with both the Nevarkis family and those that raised the leader of The Sons of the Earth."

"I see." Liam tapped his fingers against his mug. "So our initial theory was correct. Godfrey didn't act alone when my mother was poisoned."

"In all honesty sir, I never thought he had the stomach for such an act." Bastien frowned over the picture of the late Queen Eleanor that also showed Jackson Walker in the background. "Of the two friends of your father, I suspected Barthelemy."

Liam looked up. "You did?"

Bastien shrugged. "I was the junior agent when the first attack on your mother failed. Jackson told me only what was relevant." His eyes narrowed in memory. "He said it was for her protection that I wasn't told more. Now I think he and your mother were hoping to not put anyone else at risk with what they were uncovering."

Liam focused once more on the last picture his mother had taken. It was the very ball in which she received the poisoned golden goblet. He felt that familiar breath aching pain in his heart. She had missed so much of his life. His growing up, his marriage, his child.

He wanted to destroy the men responsible for this. He wanted vengeance for his mother and all the lives affected by her death.

He wanted them to suffer as he had. As his late father had.

They deserved it. They deserved so much more agony than a mere prison sentence or swift death could give.

He knew it was wrong, but he hoped Barthelemy resisted being captured. Then the king's guards could use other methods to apprehend him.

Godfrey's capture had not given him the satisfaction that Liam needed. Something had always felt off when he thought of the fastidious former Duke of Karlington. He just couldn't believe the man had acted alone.

"I believe we have enough evidence with this last report." Bastien handed him another sheet of paper. "Queen Amalas sent this along with her regards."

Liam read through the many sheets.

This was it. This was the final nail to Barthelemy Beaumont's coffin.

Liam stood up. "Prepare the guards. We are going to Ramsford immediately."

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

Duchy Ramsford, at the first blush of dawn...

"We have every inch surrounded, sir." Bastien whispered.

"Good." Liam squared his shoulders. He tried to itch his side, but encountered nothing but the Kevlar vest his guards insisted he wear. "Let's go."

The pair, flanked by four more guards walked up to the front door and banged on it.

A sleepy servant appeared, perplexed to see the king standing on the steps.

Liam and Bastien pushed past him, stating they were there for kingdom business, and began to climb the stairs.

Their footsteps were silent as they checked each room they came to.

Having finally come to the family wing of the manor, they opened the door to the room where the culprit slept.

Before the old man had a chance to come fully awake, he was handcuffed and shoved out into the hallway.

"What is the meaning of this?" Barthelemy yelled. "How dare you come into my room in such a manner?"

Bertrand and Savannah rushed out, only to stop in surprise at the sight before them.

"Barthelemy Beaumont." Liam's voice held a sinister edge. "For crimes against the royal family and Cordonia, I hereby sentence you to death."

"What?" Barthelemy dropped his easy going mien he had maintained since he first reappeared.

Something more dark and evil took over his features. "You do not have the power to do that, King Liam. You gave the Council those rights. Now that you're family is under attack, you think getting rid of me will stop them from taking the princess away?" He snorted in derision. "Even if you find a way to kill me, others will make certain neither you nor that pitiful excuse for a queen ever see Princess Eleanor again."

"I do not think any noble will fight my decision once they see your list of crimes Liam's blue eyes blazed with fury.

He began to approach the man who had formulated the plan to kill his mother. The man who had blackmailed numerous nobles so that they were forced to support him. The very man trying once more to destroy his family and take the crown from him.

Barthelemy snarled at him "You know nothing of my supporters." His chin lifted in triumph. "There are many outside of Cordonia who would love to see me take the throne as Prince Regent."

Liam's slow, deliberate steps caused Barthelemy to shrink back. He stumbled over his own feet as he was backed into a corner.

His eyes were wild as he looked for anyone who might possibly be on his side.

"Bertrand! As the Duke of Ramsford, you must stop him before he--"

His son shook his head. "House Ramsford has always stood behind King Liam and Queen Riley." He felt Savannah's hand slip into his to help him through this. "Anyone, be them blood relation or friend, who does not will become an enemy of this duchy."

Barthelemy began to spew insults upon his son. His hatred and disgust was then directed to both of his progeny having failed him in every possible way.

Bertrand didn't flinch or even appear to hear the diatribe directed towards him. He instead reported his own investigation into his father's activities.

"Forgive me, your majesty." His voice was hoarse with emotion. "I had to make it look like I had truly turned against you and our queen to make my father more open about his plans. I have all the information you might need for what he intended to do to take the princess away in my bedroom's safe."

"Traitor!" Barthelemy struggled anew against his handcuffs and the guards holding him. "How dare you betray your own blood--"

Liam punched him, knocking out the old man with an uppercut. A blessed silence followed his drop.

Bertrand stared dispassionately upon his father's crumpled form, then turned on his heel, leading Bastien to the safe.

Liam took long, deep breaths to calm himself down. The urge to continue to beat the man at his feet was strong.

He remembered every tear shed in the dark over his mother. Every need for a hug from her. Every holiday memory without her. Every single worry and secret he had longed to share with her.

He then thought of the miserable years he and Riley would have had without their daughter. Every single moment without her sweet smile. Missing each milestone. Being denied the right to even speak to her. No hugs. No kisses for skinned knees or bad dreams. No playtime. No chance of checking on her during the night.

He never knew he could hate a man as much as he did Barthelemy Beaumont.

How had such a man fathered two of Cordonia's most loyal noblemen?

Liam realized he should be grateful for the late Annabelle Beaumont and her sweetness overshadowing all that this man tried to teach them.

It would have hurt even more so, if Maxwell and Bertrand had betrayed him.

"Your majesty?"

Liam lifted his eyes and took the folder filled with all Bertrand had uncovered. It was enough to put his father away for multiple life sentences.

"Sir, I hope..." Bertrand's shoulders drooped. "Do you think Riley will understand why I did what I did?"

"I do." Liam placed a grateful hand on his shoulder. "Thank you, for this and for your continued loyalty."

Bertrand bowed his head, unable to speak from his own relief that it was at last over.

The guards dragged a still unconscious Barthelemy down the stairs and into the back of an armored truck.

Liam and Bastien followed close behind.

The king took a deep breath of the early morning's crisp air. The sun beginning to shine reminded him that this was indeed a new day...one in which he could return to his family victorious, knowing they were once more safe.

[thereishopeinchoices]

IF THE ROYAL ROMANCE WERE A KDRAMA

As a fan of Korean dramas, I have always wondered if I were a director, who would I cast for The Royal Romance?

After much thought, I was able to make a list of Korean celebrities whom in my opinion can match the personalities of TRR characters. Similarity in looks are just a bonus though.

@playchoices​

 THE ROYAL ROMANCE | KDRAMA VERSION

MAIN CAST:

Daniel Henney as Prince Liam

The “Crown Prince” of Cordonia. He fell in love at first sight with Riley during his Bachelorette Party in New York.

Hyun Bin as Drake Walker

Prince Liam’s best friend. Son of the King’s Guard. A commoner.

His father died in the line of duty, protecting The Royal Family.

Has hidden feelings for Riley.

Nana as Riley

The main protagonist. A waitress in New York.

Han Hyo Joo as Hana Lee

Became best friends with Riley. They met during The Royal Masquerade Ball.

One of Prince Liam’s suitors.

Choi Siwoon as Maxwell Beaumont

The youngest member of The House of Beaumont. 

A close friend of Prince Liam.

Sponsors Riley’s flight to Cordonia for a chance to compete for the hand of the Crown Prince.

SUPPORTING CAST:

Song Seung-heon as Bertrand Beaumont

The Duke of Ramsford. Head of The House of Beaumont. Maxwell’s older brother. 

Has feelings for Savannah Walker (Drake Walker’s sister)

Krystal Jung as Olivia Nevrakis

The Duchess of Lythikos

Prince Liam’s childhood friend and one of his suitors who will compete for him.

Lee Da Hee as Madeleine

Countess Madeleine of Fydelia.

One of Prince Liam’s suitors.

Ex-fiancee of the Former Crown Prince Leo (Liam’s older brother)

Nam Kyung-eup as King Constantine

The King of Cordonia. Prince Leo and Prince Liam’s father.

Jung Ae-ri as Queen Regina

The Queen of Cordonia. Prince Leo and Prince Liam’s step mother.

Kim Min-joon as Bastien

Prince Leo and Prince Liam’s bodyguard.

Jung Woo-sung as Prince Leo

Former Crown Prince of Cordonia. Abdicated the throne to marry a woman he met in a cruise ship in Athens.

Park Shin Hye as Kiara

Heir to Duchy Castelsarreillan.

One of Prince Liam’s suitors.

Became best friend’s with Penelope at court.

Has a crush on Drake Walker.

Yoo In Na as Penelope

Lady Penelope of Portavira.

One of Prince Liam’s suitors.

Obsessed with dogs.

Kim Hee-sun as Savannah Walker

Drake Walker’s sister.

Has feelings for Bertrand Beaumont.

Park Hyung-soo as Anton Severus

Main antagonist. Disguised as a public relations officer of Riley.

Cha Seung-won as Tariq

One of Prince Liam’s friends.

Involved in a conspiracy against Riley.

Lee Hye Young as Lucretia Nevrakis

Aunt of Olivia Nevrakis

One of the antagonist.

Chun Ho Jin as Godfrey

Duke of Karlington. Madeleine’s father. Husband of Adelaide. 

Kim Sung-ryung as Adelaide

Duchess of Krona. Wife of Godfrey. Madeleine’s mother.

Cousin of Queen Regina.

Kim Chang-wan as Xinghai Lee

A businessman. Father of Hana Lee. Husband of Lorelai.

Na Young-hee as Lorelai Lee

A member of a Cordonian minor noble house. Wife of Xinghai Lee. Mother of Hana Lee.

Um Hyo-sup as Landon

Duke of Portavira. Father of Penelope. Husband of Emmeline.

Kim Mi-sook as Emmeline

Duchess of Portavira. Mother of Penelope. Wife of Landon.

Kil Yong-woo as Hakim

Duke of Castelsarreillan. A diplomat.

Father of Kiara. Husband of Joelle.

Choi Ji Woo as Joelle

Duchess of Castelsarreillan. An artist.

Mother of Kiara. Wife of Hakim.

Park Sung Woong as Neville Rancour

Future Earl of Cormery Isle

One of Hana Lee’s suitors.

Bullies Drake Walker.

Lee Jae-yoon as Rashad

Heir to Duchy Domvallier. A businessman.

A friend of Neville Rancour.

One of Hana Lee’s suitors.

Lee EI as Ana De Luca

A Fashion Designer.

Journalist of “Trend” Magazine.

Yoon Ji-min as Mara

Riley’s personal bodyguard.

Oh Hyun Kyung as Queen Eleanor

Former Queen of Cordonia. Second wife of King Constantine. Prince Liam’s mother.

Died because of poisoning.

(Featured in The Royal Romance story through flashbacks)

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

안녕!!

I’ve always been loyal to Prince Liam! But since Hyun Bin is one of my bias wreckers.. casting him as Drake Walker would really cut my heart in half!! 😂 I believe he’s the perfect oppa to act as Drake, after watching his recent kdrama “Crash Landing On You”. OMG!!!

As for finding an actress as Riley, I did thought of having Bae Suzy..

But I prefer Nana because I find her visual more unique...

She has more of the “western” look vibe. She reminds me of Kim Tae-hee!

Also, I prefer the potential I guess.. she isn’t known for romcom roles yet since she’s always casted for badass films.

Also the  “chemistry” among the characters especially the love team is something that I’ve also considered. 🤔Nana and Hyun Bin already worked together in a film called “The Swindlers”.. while Daniel and Hyun Bin starred in a 2005 kdrama “Lovely Kim Sam Soon”.

Here’s an old photo of Daniel Henney & Hyun Bin together!

SWEET!!!! 😍😍😍

[adrrianraines]

911 THIS IS AN EMERGENCY—GODFREY BEING THE DUKE OF KARLINGTON HAS A REASON. HE’S AS DIRTY AS MR. RICHARDS!!

[bbrandy2002]

My Love

Chapter Four-Please Remember

Book: TRH

Pairing: Liam and Riley

A/N: Thank you @burnsoslow who edited the hell out of this and did so masterfully and just for all your support with everything. Also, @fromthedeskofpaisleybleakmore and @romanticatheart-posts I stole your words from your comments on the previous chapter. It was just two sentences but wanted to give credit where it was due. Keep your comments coming and you two will have this thing written for me..lol. And lastly, @dcbbw who sent me the perfect song for inspiration found here:

 https://youtu.be/3Ru1euNUN2s

Warning: Physical altercation and MC death mentioned.

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

Silence fell on Liam’s lips as he held in his hand the first missing piece to Riley’s death. It had been exactly 12 hours since she departed this earth and his life,  taking with her the best parts of himself. Every second since had felt like thousands of painful stings throughout his entire body that he wanted nothing more than to numb.  Would this report provide him with all the answers he sought to why her life was taken from her? Would it make his heart hurt any less knowing what happened? Or would it simply open Pandora’s box, leaving him with more questions?  He knew it wouldn’t heal the pain he felt, but perhaps it would clue him into why she was gone.

Ignoring Bastien’s suggestion to sit, he turned away from his head guard and pinched the clasp of the manila envelope. With his heart thundering in his chest, he reached inside and slid the report from its enclosure. Pacing nervously, his eyes scrutinized every single word, line by line, from her name to how the exam was conducted. Nothing was abnormal.

He licked his thumb and turned to the second page. His eyes immediately caught sight of the bold type at the bottom of the page, and he couldn’t help but skip straight to it.

The cause of death is acute respiratory distress from potassium cyanide-induced histotoxic hypoxia. 

Manner of death: Homicide.

Liam read those words over and over again, unsure he really believed them. His stomach wrenched as thoughts of his own mother's murder began to haunt him; how could this happen again?  Riley, his love, the one who made him complete, who turned his world upside-down in the very best ways possible, succumbed to the same death his mother had over 20 years ago. Poisoned.

He had spent the last several hours contemplating whether he had done something to hurt her, thinking perhaps she hadn't been physically ready to be intimate the prior evening. As ominous as that thought was, knowing now that she was murdered, that he risked her life to marry for love after his father warned him of the pain of losing Liam’s mother, made him feel every bit as culpable of her demise. It was why he hadn’t chosen her at his coronation; he knew she was set up, but he had to protect her, even if it meant they couldn’t be together. 

Liam turned to Bastien with a remorseful look. “I killed her, Bas.”

“Sir, you did no such thing.”

He held up the report. “Then explain this … he warned me, Bastien; my father told me my love for her made me weak, that I put everyone at risk by choosing her. He was right.”

“Your Majesty, regardless of what the late King said, the same poison that killed your mother was found in the Queen. We need to proceed with an investigation and find out who really committed this atrocious act.”

Liam ran a hand down his face. “Yes, we need another damn investigation that will take you 20 years to figure out-except you didn’t figure out who killed my mother! my friends and I did that!” he spat.

“Sir, with all due respect, I wasn’t the Head Guard when your mother passed.”

Liam yanks Bastien by the collar, nearly nose to nose with him. “YOU ARE FOR THIS ONE!”

The guard attempted to loosen the grip, feeling the weight of his King’s words. “Please, sir. I understand the anger directed at me …”

“Oh, I don’t believe you can even begin to understand the anger I have for you, Mr. Lykel.” Liam stepped back. “You are charged with protecting my family, and so far two members of the royal family have been murdered on your watch:my father and my wife..So help me God, if I find out you could have prevented this and failed again …”

“What’s going on?” Drake asked, having heard the commotion and stepped around the corner to make sure everything was okay.

Liam continued to eye Bastien with a steely glare. “Drake, can you stay with Ellie while I take care of some business? I need someone I can trust to actually protect her.”

__________

In the lowest reaches of the palace, Liam placed two cold hands on the cell bars of the former Duke of Karlington. Godfrey had been imprisoned for the last six weeks, awaiting trial for his part in Eleanor’s death. The elderly man was lying down on his cot, stewing in boredom and oppressive thoughts, when he heard the familiar sound of keys clanking and the creaking of the door swinging open. Before he had time to lower the arm that rested over his eyes, he was jerked from his peaceful doldrums on the bed and brought to his feet. His aging body was thrust against the icy concrete of his prison walls, causing him to bounce off and stumble harshly to the ground.

“What is the meaning of this?”

Liam crouched down beside him, grabbing a fistful of Godfrey’s silver mane in one hand and his feeble neck with the other. “You son of a bitch. I will give you one chance and one chance only to rectify your miserable life before I strangle you with my bare hands!"

"This is preposterous," he gagged slightly as Liam's hand constricted tighter around his neck. Godfrey instinctively began tugging on the King's arm, desperate for breath.

"Did you kill my wife?" His tone became sharper.

The Duke gasped for air after the grasp on his neck was loosened. He furrowed his brows as he stared straight into the unforgiving eyes of his captor, unsure whether the lack of oxygen caused him to misunderstand.

"Did I hear you correctly? The Queen … is dead?"

Liam released his hold on Karlington's neck but kept the other bound to the back of his hair. "Did.you.do.it?'' he seethed.

"I haven't the faintest idea what the bloody hell you speak of!'' he replied contemptuously. "I'm facing death for what happened to Eleanor; what possible reason would I have for harming the Queen now?"

"Because you have a track record, Your Grace. The same poison you used to end my mother’s life was found in Riley’s body. I don’t believe this is just some coincidence.  You had nothing to lose."

"I would have nothing to gain either," he replied succinctly.

Liam let out a heavy sigh and stood, towering over the man whose deception and thirst for power had cost him years of anguish and emotional turmoil as a child. He searched Godfrey’s malevolent face for any indication of guilt or responsibility, yet none was detected. Feeling overcome by mental and physical exhaustion, he turned and walked toward the prison doors, where a guard stood nearby watching the encounter. “I’m ready.”

The guard pulled his keys from the clip on his belt and opened the door. As he exited and the lock was secured behind him, Godfrey pushed himself up from the ground and called out to him.

“Your Majesty!”

Liam stopped just out of view but did not face him. "What is it, Godfrey?"

Godfrey grabbed the bars of his cell and pressed his withered face against them.

“Sometimes we have no one to blame but ourselves. Are you really surprised this has happened, considering that from the moment you announced your engagement to the puckish American, our country has suffered one attack after another? Perhaps you’ll think wisely when choosing your next queen, because this lies squarely on your shoulders, Rhys."

Liam hung his head low Godfrey’s words were doing exactly what he intended them to do, getting under his skin and inside his heart. He did blame himself; he knew he always would. The guilt was eating him up inside because he thought the two of them together were unstoppable. They had encountered every possible danger together and always came out victoriously, but somehow he failed her this time. He turned on his heels, motioning for the guard to reopen Godfrey’s cell door.

“Take care of him.”

The guard nodded and lifted the pommel of his club from the holster at his side.

_____________

That evening, Hana would return to Valtoria. She had offered to stay, but Liam insisted he and Ellie would be fine. Maxwell and Bertrand returned to Ramsford soon after, and Drake retired to his room.

Liam stood just outside his bedroom after putting Ellie in her crib for the night. Fear of being in their room without Riley, sleeping in their bed alone for the first time and knowing that was the last place he saw her alive, prevented him from stepping inside. He placed his hand on the doorknob and slowly turned it, then let go. 

With the baby monitor still in his hand, he headed back downstairs and stepped out onto the balcony just off the living room. Liam placed both hands on the balcony railing and leaned into it. He closed his eyes and inhaled deeply, allowing the cool, spring wind that carried just a hint of honeysuckle to refresh his mind and relax his worn and weary body. 

“My love,” he began, peering down towards the entrance of the hedge maze. “I keep expecting to wake up and see that beautiful face of yours looking back at me, telling me this has all been just one horrible nightmare.” His throat began to tighten as his emotions started to resurface. “I have all of our wonderful friends, I have Ellie, but I don’t have you … and I’m so lonely, Riley,” he choked out. “I’m so lonely.”

Liam swiped away the tears that began to surface and roll down his cheeks like a torrential downpour. “Everyone keeps telling me that we will find out who did this to you - and I swear I will - but in the end, it won’t bring you back to me ... and our little girl will never know her mother, Ri. How do I even begin to tell her about you?... about us?” 

Liam pulled a handkerchief from his pocket and washed it over his teary face. His gaze turned to a small apple tree that he and Riley planted just outside the hedge maze shortly after finding out they were expecting a baby. Liam recalled she wanted something to represent the three of them: her being from the Big Apple, him being from the Land of Apples and their baby referred to by the people of Cordonia as “the Little Apple.” A thought crossed his mind, and he knew it was the right decision.  “Love, if it’s okay, I would like to lay you to rest under that tree.” He sniffles, “I think you would have wanted that.”

Feeling his eyelids growing heavier than he could withstand any longer, he said a quick good night, hoping it reached the heavens, before returning to the warmth of the indoors. 

Liam walked back upstairs and grabbed two blankets and a pillow from a hall closet. He entered Ellie’s room. Even with a guest bedroom, he didn’t want to be alone tonight, opting to sleep on the floor next to his daughter’s crib. 

______________

It had been one week since Riley died, and there were no leads, no suspects, no evidence other than the cyanide found in her body. No one who had spoken with or saw her in the days prior to the tragedy noticed anything that suggested she was sick. Cyanide poisoning kills quickly, though, and Liam, as the last person to see her alive, couldn’t explain how she ingested it. Their quarters had been swept, and no traces of suspicious activity was found anywhere. As frustrating as all of this was to Liam, he had something else on his mind today.

It had taken him three days to finally re-enter his bedroom, yet he still slept in Ellie’s nursery where the staff prepared a small bed for him there. He knew it was nonsensical, but he just couldn’t bring himself to be alone in bed without Riley.

Today, all businesses were closed, flags lined the streets of the Capital, and a frenzy of press and people were already gathering along the funeral procession route to pay homage to their beloved queen. At the palace, Liam stood before the vanity, adjusting his tie, smoothing out his suit jacket, and locking the emerald  cufflinks Riley gave him in place. He glanced over himself once more in the mirror before peeking down at Ellie, who was sitting in a bouncer on the vanity beside him, watching his every move. 

“All right, Princess, this is where your mother would tell me my tie is crooked or I have a hair standing up in the back. It’s up to you now; what’s the verdict?”

Ellie’s lips curved into a large smile, completely enamored by the attention she was getting from her father. “I will take that to mean the Princess approves,” he smiled back.

Liam gathered a baby cloth and slung it over his shoulder then lifted the baby from her bouncer. With a kiss to her forehead, he moved downstairs, where Bertrand and Maxwell were waiting for him at the door. Both brothers’ grim faces perked up at the sight of the approaching baby, who was almost a mirror image of Riley. Miss Talbert, who had served as Riley’s personal assistant, agreed to stay on as Ellie’s nanny, having helped care for her in one way or another since her birth.

“Amanda, she’s been changed and fed recently and will most likely take a nap within the hour.”

“Come here, sweetheart.” Amanda took Ellie from Liam’s arms. “We’ll be fine, Your Majesty; I’ll take good care of this little peanut.”

Liam kissed his daughter on the cheek. “Daddy loves you, sweet girl; I’ll be home soon.”

He looked down at his watch and then to Bertrand and Maxwell. “We should probably go.”

Stepping outside the front doors of the Palace, Liam took a deep breath and prepared himself mentally for what he thought would be some of the most difficult hours of his life. The eyes of the world would be watching his every move, every expression, and every shed tear. It wasn’t fair that he had to be strong; he detested the expectations he was burdened with on today of all days, yet it was what was conventional of a monarch during a time like this. Any sign of weakness could be detrimental to his country, or so he had been led to believe. He wondered why grieving the loss of your wife, your best friend, could be misconstrued as a sign of vulnerability ... but then, perhaps, today, he was vulnerable.

The sun was high, and the warmth it rained down was quite welcoming. With Maxwell on Liam’s left side and Bertrand on his right, they stopped at the end of the cobblestone walkway that led to the drive in front of the palace, and there they waited. The silence that commenced for the next minute was finally broken by the advancing sound of a horse’s trot. 

Drake was riding Maribelle’s Dream and pulled a wooden caisson bearing the casket of Riley Brooks. Draped over her coffin were the flags of Valtoria, Cordonia, and Ramsford, as well as a bouquet of her favorite flower, purple lilies perched in the center.

Maxwell lost all control of his emotions as she passed by, while Liam and Bertrand bowed their heads in deference. Once the carriage had cleared, the three men stepped forward and followed behind on foot, out the gates and to the cathedral. 

The service was a traditional, royal funeral. Liam wasn’t sure she would have liked it, considering she was anything but traditional. Sitting in the front row, he maintained his stoic facade as everyone around him wept and sniffled, yet inside, he was completely destroyed. He was devastated in his grief and the realization that the last time he was in this building, he was beginning his life with her; now, one year later, he was here once again, for its ending.

“King Liam of Cordonia, do you take this woman to be your lawfully wedded wife? Do you vow to love her, comfort her, and cherish her, for better or worse, for richer or poorer, in times of joy and times of trial, til death do you part?”

“I do.”

At the conclusion of the ceremony and after all guests in the cathedral had exited, Liam, Drake, Hana, Maxwell, and Bertrand each gathered around Riley with heavy hearts. It had been decided they would each place a sentimental item with her and say their final goodbyes, away from rolling cameras and the eyes of the public. This would be their final time together as “The Gang” and wasn’t something they wanted to share with anyone else. 

Bertrand, never one for words, gave her a copy of the bill for the Applewood dress she never returned, knowing she would have found it hilarious and so perfectly him. His throat tight with emotion.  “Goodbye, Lady Riley, until we meet again.”

Hana stepped forward. “Riley, you gave me the confidence to be me, to follow my own path, to have fun, to laugh, to be wild and free. You’ve always been there for me, and I will never forget you.” She gave Riley the recipe for her hot cocoa that they had spent so much time bonding over. It reminded her of all their best times together. She placed a hand on her friend’s cheek.

Maxwell held out a small white box and placed it next to her. “I wanted to give you a box of cronuts because it was one of the funnest nights I ever remember with you … I assume you would appreciate the fact that I’ve already eaten half of them.” he chuckled through tears. “I’ll never forget you, Riley … I … I … I can’t do this.” Maxwell turned and fell into Bertrand and Hana’s embrace.

Drake inhaled deeply. “Uh … hey, Brooks. You already know what I got you.” He slipped a bag of marshmallows inside. “I can hear you laughing now and telling me how gooey I am on the inside. I like to think you had a little something to do that with, but don’t go getting all boastful about it.” He sighed heavily, running his fingers through his hair. “Damn, this hurts, Brooks … but I want you to know, I’ll take care of Liam and Ellie and … maybe you can save me a seat at that bar in heaven.” He smirked, “Yeah, my heaven has a bar, and all the whiskey I can drink.”

The four friends stood back, their arms around each other as Liam prepared to say goodbye. His thumb caressed her temple as he looked down at the face of his angel.

He cleared his throat and reached inside his breast pocket, pulling out several things. “Love … I have a few things to take with you, just some photos of us together and Ellie … and because you know me better than anyone, you would know I spent last night writing this letter to you … you always said I have a letter to write for every occasion. I won’t read it to you, but --” his lips began to quiver and his shoulders shook -- “I wanted you to know how proud I am of you … how proud I’ve always been of you. You possessed a strength I never had and without you, never will. All those dreams we won’t be able to fulfill -  yet we lived every dream we had to the fullest. We sure had one hell of an adventure, didn’t we?” He sobbed passionately, “We just ran out of time.” 

Liam leaned down and placed a gentle kiss on Riley’s lips, lingering for just a moment. “I always loved you … I always will.”

With that, “the gang” left together and returned to the gardens of the Palace. They gathered together for a private burial under that apple tree she planted, while the birds soared, the butterflies flew, and the squirrels ran across the lush palace lawn. The five of them held each other, cried and laughed, remembering times and a life they would never know again.

[flowerpowell]

Unexpected (Drake x MC)

PART SIX

A/N: 👀

Characters belong to Pixelberry!

Rating: PG-16

Word count: 1809

Tagging: @gardeningourmet​ @delightfullypinkglitter​ @hopefulmoonobject​ @akrenich​ @blackcatkita​ @cora-nova @client-327​ @desiree---1986​ @jlpplays1​ @dcbbw​ @kingliam2019​ @the-soot-sprite​ @mskaneko​ @thequeenofcronuts​ @dr-ethanjramsey​ @missameliep​ @maxattack-powell​ @badchoicesposts​ @mymandrake​ @butindeed​ @burnsoslow​ @annekebbphotography​ @alesana45​ @addictedtodrakefanfic​ @walkerduchess​ @ao719​ @texaskitten30​ @lodberg​ @cordonianroyalty​ @emichelle​ @siriusxxvideos​ @i-bloody-love-drake-walker​ @samihatuli​ @choices-lurker​ @i-miss-trr​ @drxkewalker​ @nikkis1983​ @innerpostmentality​ @msjr0119​ @bascmve01​ @mind-reader1​ @edgiestwinter​? @drakesensworld​ @queenjilian​ @princessleac1​ @saivilo​ @yukinagato2012​ ♥

“Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today to join this man and this woman in matrimony.”

Riley looked at Liam who was reciting the formula as if he was doing it every day. She then looked at her hands, intertwined with Drake’s and she sighed. Never in a million years would she ever expect her summer trip would end that way. She felt Madeleine and Barthelemy’s eyes on her and she straightened herself trying to look natural. Drake’s friend, Maxwell, whom she just met, was weeping from behind Drake and she quickly looked at the clock to see how long she’d have to be there.

“Drake, do you take this woman to be your wife, to live together in matrimony, to love her, to honor her, to comfort her, and to keep her in sickness and in health, forsaking all others, for as long as you both shall live?” Liam asked, making Riley come back to reality.

“I do,” she heard Drake saying and her heart skipped a beat. Even if it was all fake, hearing these words made her a bit emotional.

“Riley, do you take this man to be your husband, to live together in matrimony, to love him, to honor him, to comfort him, and to keep him in sickness and in health, forsaking all others, for as long as you both shall live?” He asked and both Liam and Drake looked at her expectantly.

“Sure. I mean, I do.”

She could hear Drake’s sighing with relief and she even caught a glimpse of Liam’s smile at her words. The ceremony went on and before she could register anything, she was wearing an ugly wedding band that matched Drake’s and was pronounced Mrs Walker.

Nightmare.

Not many people were invited, just a couple of people from Drake’s life and Riley’s friend and manager. The reception took place in the palace and even though Riley wasn’t happy about getting married, she was very impressed with being in a real palace.

“So... You didn’t even invite your parents, huh?” Riley asked Drake when they were dancing, after being told by Liam that they absolutely needed to do the first dance in order for the wedding to be believeable.

“My father’s dead and my mom has depression and she didn’t want to come. Besides it’s a fake wedding,” he shrugged and Riley felt guilty for asking. “You didn’t invite yours either.”

“It’s a fake wedding,” she repeated. “I don’t even want to think what my parents would do if they found out I got married. I’d rather keep quiet. And I’m sorry, you know, about your parents.”

“S’okay.”

“Woooo! Twirl her!” they heard Maxwell shouting and Drake rolled his eyes.

“They’re not even dancing. They are standing still and pretending they’re doing something!” Madeleine commented and this time it was Riley who rolled her eyes.

“It’s time for a toast anyway. Drake would you like to say something?” Liam asked trying to get everyone’s attention off the awkward dance Drake and Riley were performing.

“No, I’m not good with words, just happy to be married to this amazing lady.”

“Riley?”

“I would actually want to say something,” she said and Drake’s eyes widened in horror. Oh boy.

Liam gave her a smile as she stood up and looked at Drake. “Drake, when I first met you, I never thought we’d end up married.” I thought you’d end up seriously injured after I finally push you off the cliff. “But here we are, celebrating our love,” and my new restaurant, “and I just wanted to say that I love you, despite the fact that you snore and use butter as a body lotion,” she finished as everyone chuckled. Drake looked at her narrowing her eyes but she just smiled at him and leaned in, whispering, “Payback.”

“Thank you, my dear wife,” Drake stood up suddenly, “I love you too, even when you don’t use your deodorant because you prefer to be natural.” He smiled back at her and she stood up again.

“Aww! You’re so sweet! You’re lucky I love you because otherwise I’d totally tell everyone about your obsession with braiding your armpit hair.”

“This is the best wedding ever,” Olivia whispered to Liam as he spit out his drink.

“Oh? And I would totally tell everyone about--”

“Guys! I think it’s enough about your love to each other,” Liam cut in, looking at both Drake and Riley.

“Aww, man! I thought I’d learn a little bit more about my buddy, Drake! I had no idea you liked braiding your hair! Hey, no judgement here!” Maxwell patted his friend on the back as Drake glared at Riley. It was only their wedding day and he already regretted his decision.

I should’ve just kidnapped Bartie.

~~~~

“Okay, here is your marriage certificate and I’ve already filed for custody for you,” Liam handed his friend a few documents as the three of them stood in front of Drake’s cabin, after the wedding.

“How long do we have to pretend for?” Riley asked not wanting Liam to leave her alone with Drake.

“I’d say at least a month after Drake gets full custody. It’d be more believeable.”

“Okay,” she sighed hoping Drake would win the custody as soon as possible.

“Anyway, I gotta go, enjoy your first day as a married couple and have a great wedding night!” Liam said before quickly leaving the two of them alone and getting into his car.

“Do I really have to live in one house with you?”

“Unfortunately yes. But at least we don’t have to share a room,” Drake opened the door and let her in.

“Ugh, I already forgot how much I hate this place.”

“Well, you’d better get to used it. It’s gonna be your home for the next few weeks,” Drake said and sat down on the couch, still in his suit, and turned on the TV.

“Umm? Hello? What am I supposed to do now?”

“The guest room is on the left. The rest you’ve seen. Do whatever you want. Mi casa es su casa, wifey.”

~~~~

Two weeks passed (the worst two weeks of Riley’s life according to Riley) and the day of the hearing finally came. They both went to the court and met there with Liam. Madeleine and Bartholemy were already there with their lawyer and Bartie.

“Are you ready?” Liam asked and Drake nodded.

“I just hope he wins so I can finally be free,” Riley murmured and Liam chuckled.

“Is living with Drake that bad?”

“Bearable when I pretend he doesn’t exist--”

“Which is pretty much every single day,” Drake chipped in. “Living with her is a nightmare. She thinks she’s funny when she switches my shaving cream with cream cheese.”

“Me? A nightmare? Who put a fake spider on my bed? I hate spiders!”

“And who took all my towels and clothes and locked the door so I couldn’t get inside after my swim in the lake?”

“And who--”

“Guys,” Liam shook his head, “stop because my stomach hurts from laughing. I wish I could see this myself.”

“You can even take her to live with you, if you want to,” Drake said and Riley stuck out her tongue at him.

“Actually, Drake, I wanted to tell you something. I got news from the private investigator I hired. He was able to track down Betrand and Savannah before they disappeared. They seemed to be last seen nearby the duchy of Karlington, in London...” Liam started.

“That son of a--”

“I don’t understand, why is that a clue?” Riley asked as Drake tried to take deep breaths to calm himself down.

“Duchy of Karlington is owned by Godfrey, who is Madeleine’s father...” Liam explained.

“Oh... I see.”

“But Drake, it doesn’t necessarily mean anything. It could be a coincidence, there’s no proof or--”

“This is the proof I need,” Drake said before walking towards Madeleine and Barthelemy.

“Drake!” Liam tried to stop him but it was too late.

“How DARE you try to take Bartie when it was you who killed his parents? Don’t you have any sort of conscience?!”

“Excuse me?” Madeleine asked as Barthelemy protectively put an arm around her waist.

“You killed Betrand and Savannah! We have evidence!”

“Don’t you dare speak to my wife in such manner! She didn’t kill anyone, she cared for both Betrand and Savannah!” Barthelemy raised his voice and Riley had to take Drake’s hand before he could punch the old man.

“You bunch of liars! The detective said the last place they were seen was in Karlington, now that sounds familiar, doesn’t it Madeleine? And now you’re trying to steal Bartie, too? For what? To kill him as well?”

“Watch your mouth!” Barthelemy said, “My wife did not do anything wrong. She was so concerned when we heard the news that she even hired a detective to learn more about their disappearance. She was worried sick and you’re saying she killed them? You’re disgusting!”

“Listen, Drake, I don’t know what they were doing there, maybe Betrand had something to do there but I wouldn’t hurt them! I loved Savannah like my own sister and Betrand was very dear to me,” Madeleine smiled sadly and Riley had to admit that she sounded sincere. Or she was a good actress.

“I don’t believe you. I’ll find the evidence and you’ll rot in jail!” Drake said before Liam dragged him away.

“Are you okay, dear?” Barthelemy asked as Madeleine turned to him.

“Yes, yes. A bit shocked Drake would think that but okay. I need to fix my make up, I think. I’ll be right back,” she gave him a smile and went to the restroom. After making sure she was alone, she pulled out her phone. She dialed a number to her detective and waited for him to pick up.

“Drake knows Betrand and Savannah were in Karlington, Liam’s private investigator found something. You assured me there was absolutely no way anyone would ever find out about it!”

“Hey, relax. I examined the area and asked people. Even if they somehow found out about them being here, no one saw them going inside or even close. The cameras were all turned off that night. Don’t worry.”

“You know, the more you talk, the less assured I am. Drake knows. He’s not gonna stop digging.” Madeleine was slowly losing patience.

“What do you want me to do?” the man finally asked.

“Fix. It.”

[heauxplesslydevoted]

1) This was one of the more superior chapters of TRH. It had courtly politics, mystery, gossip, Olivia did a lot of flirt/fighting with Jin, etc

2) I still don’t trust that bitch, Godfrey. I still think he had something to do with Eleanor’s death. And he’s the Duke of Karlington, which is somewhere in England. Why does he keep flexing it like it has any merit in Cordonia? Where is Adelaide?

3) Fuck you, Leona

4) Today’s chapter just showed me that Kiara is severely underutilized and underestimated within this series. She’s one of smartest women at court. I want to see more of her.

[thefirstcourtesan]

Ok... Liam stripped Godfrey of his titles and lands but... those are in England.

I feel like the King of Cordonia can’t strip an English duke of his lands. As for his Cordonian titles those are Adelaide’s.

I mean, we have no evidence she is guilty (we haven’t even seen her this book) and I don’t think Liam can just strip her husband of her titles? I mean I have no idea how that works.

Except the writers possibly forgetting the history they wrote for these characters, which is entirely plausible given that it has happened time and again. But you would think they would remember Karlington is in England since they have a whole other series featuring that particular holding 😂

[lizzybeth1986]

Really, Really Slow Thoughts on TRR Book 3, Chapter 3

• This QT took two days. Because my pace has been sluggish. Because my thoughts on this chapter have been sluggish.

• This chapter is the only time in the entire series that I was barely invested. That’s only ever happened to be at the beginning of Book 1, and only because I didn’t think it would amount to anything beyond a Cinderella story. I haven’t been in that space with a single chapter in this book since Book 1,Chapter 8. I’m just…bored.

• Title: Allies among Enemies. Sounds very Kenna and Luther, no? But I doubt Kenna ever had to sit and play marriage counselor to a squabbling couple.

•

Esther asking all the relevant questions.

I mean, sure, Bertrand, I get it: I need to make a tour and that involves visiting other duchies, Justin thinks Madeleine would make a bomb press secretary, and I have to play matchmaker for her parents –

Wait what. Why do I need to resolve a personal fight because Madeleine’s parents? I know it’s all about reaching out and getting allies and making connections but playing armchair therapist just sounds extremely silly.

• I like that they’re carrying over the “house colours” strategy from TCaTF. Kenna occasionally did this during alliances, especially when meeting with the Nevrakis family.

•

So I have a dress “as green as Madeleine’s envy towards me and black as her shrivelled heart” (bomb analogy, Maxwell!). Buuuut I’m taking part in a court event. A formal ball. Why is the dress style more like what I wore in the club for Madeleine’s bachelorette and Liam’s bachelor party???

• Also can you imagine how awkward waltzing would look in this dress? Ballroom dresses are long and flowy for a reason. Part of the beauty of your twirl comes from how your skirt flows when you’re turning, esp in a dance like the Cordonian Waltz where the twirl is the highlight.

• So I’m supposed to ensure Adeleide comes for the wedding. Loooogically the story should make this easier on me because I already did the hard work of winning her over the last book right? Wrong. Because the story doesn’t care. It doesn’t care which Liam I chose, whether I’ve ever worn pepto bismol in my life or not, whether I charmed the pants off Adeleide (not literally). Nope. I still have to start from scratch (wouldn’t be the first time tho. I won over Kiara and Penelope in Book 1 only for them to ditch me next book [even though Penelope knew it wasn’t my fault. You owe me big, sister]).

• Soooo Godfrey, Madeleine’s dad, is an English nobleman. His marriage to Adeleide was a political alliance and he doesn’t actually give a shit about Cordonia unless his daughter is the goddamn country’s queen.

• Hmm. So Madeleine is half Cordonian too. Jesus Christ for a country that doesn’t like foreigners very much, a lot of its major players seem to have at least one non-Cordonian parent: Liam (possibly), Madeleine, Drake, Hana…

• I was a little confused because Book 1 mentioned that Madeleine is “practically royalty” from her father’s side - but it’s possible that’s more a hint towards his English roots. I guess we can rule him out for who the enemy is rn because this dude genuinely doesn’t give a shit.

• So Liam, whose interactions with Godfrey have been few and far between and who admits he has never really met him in a social setting, is the one who provides us inputs on how to deal with the Duke. Turns out this advice is pretty helpful, coming from someone who barely knows the man.

•

Savour this moment, Liam stans. This - and the “we need to avoid this lack of crowd at our wedding” exchange, are the only times we will get to properly interact with him today.

• I know this decor looks like a piñata threw up over the ballroom but I love the purple and the soft lighting xD

• So the first event post Homecoming is super empty, which is quite dishearting. It’s enough to make even our resident bar-hopper Adeleide upset.

•

Is it just me or does “STOICISM RULEZ!!!” Regina sound like she gives zero fucks today? I mean sure it could just be her usual irritation around Adelaide but here even Constantine seems a little taken aback. And besides, it’s not the Krona duchy that needs anything from the Crown, it’s the Crown that needs something from them. Your arrogance doesn’t have any legs to stand on, Regina.

• Also idk but am I the only one getting a different vibe from Regina this book? In the debriefing meeting she wasn’t there at all, and this is someone who has been a part of every meeting we’ve seen in the books. Then she comes here, to an event where if anything SHE needs to be begging her cousin to come for her stepson’s/some random noblewoman’s wedding, and she’s busy making snappy comments about the appetizers (and let’s be honest, everyone else found their spread incredibly good. Even Drake. DRAKE)

• Madeleine’s dad is essentially Madeleine Sr.

• “Magic Friendship Dust” my ass.

• Madeleine’s reaction to this “be my press secretary” thing is “I told you so” followed by a resounding (implied) “fuck you”. What else were you expecting, Esther?

•

It’s great that they say this, but I would have preferred if they showed it. It really isn’t that hard. Show him talking independently to a noble or two (you don’t even have to show their faces) - winning some over and not managing to sway some others. The reason a lot of Liam fans are upset is that not only does the writing make weak excuses to keep him from working WITH the MC, we aren’t even given a proper glimpse of what he IS doing!

I’ll return to this point later, because I have a LOT to say 😠

• …cheeseburgers aren’t appetizers, Drake.

• I’d agree with you about the buffalo wings tho.

• Nomnom that pasta looks good.

• I’d betray me for a plate of truffled penne too, Esther.

•

Back in the essay I wrote on the Balcony Scene, I spoke of how Liam’s mother’s story seemed like a mirror to the MC’s (I mentioned that she might be a foreigner, though, and given that Neville and Drake make the comparison between the MC and her, and that her son is customizable by ethnicity, I still think there are chances that is true). Called it! xD

• Neville is still as big a creep as he ever was and this scene was extremely ugly, especially with regards to Drake. But it was also extremely powerful because the group gets to rally around and protect him, and show Neville that Drake has people who will support him no matter what. It was a scene I felt was needed because it gives you a much better idea of what Drake has had to deal with in court. (also I know he’s taking the tour coz he wants a wife [good luck getting one with THAT level of creepy, asshole!] but I’m suspicious about him following ppl he doesn’t even like around).

• This is also amazing buildup to the dancing scene. The version of the scene I got was automatically platonic, which I loved, and I got more comfortable with this scene than I have ever felt with any non-Liam-LI scene so far (you know how you keep stressing about accidental romance points? That).

• In my playthrough, Esther keeps it professional, gives him encouragement, teaches him how to glide using a mental image. Drake points out he needs to give Liam adequate support and he will need to actually prove himself to other nobles for that. As a romantic scene, it really shines (and indeed it should, given that the Cordonian waltz is primarily romantic) but it works very well on a platonic level too.

• I also really, really loved the comparison Drake made between his situation and hers: that the MC is proof that he can hold on to who he is even if he becomes a part of the nobility/has endured this much from them. Drake’s character arc is built heavily on his fear that being part of the nobility can change people, based on very valid experiences. We’ve seen in this chapter how desperately some nobles cling to their titles, almost using it to make up for their lack of personality (I’m looking at you, Neville and Godfrey). But he has proof all around him too, that you don’t need to lose who you are through a title. In a lot of ways this plays really well into his “letting go” arc as well.

• Okay so I went with Godfrey first. He’s talking to Liam, who again makes a disappearing act (I don’t mind, because the MC specifically stated she wanted to speak to the Duke alone). I’m not surprised Liam wasn’t making much headway. This is the second dude to dump Madeleine after all, and worse still he’s brother to the first dude to dump her. No wonder Liam’s sticking to safe subjects like choice of scotch!

• YIKES @ Godfrey’s constant harping of successes and defeats. Why don’t we talk about what a failure YOU are as a dad, Duke Karlington, since you’re only ever there for Madeleine to tell her what a failure she is!

• I like the exchange they show us between Adeleide and Regina before the MC steps in. Regina’s care and concern for Madeleine has pretty much been there from the beginning and for what it’s worth, it has been genuine.

• Oh man. I want to give Adeleide a hug and some champagne. I mean I don’t exactly envision her winning the “best mother” award anytime soon, but she’s trying. Perhaps a little too pushy and a little too focused on her own coping mechanisms, but still, she cares enough about Madeleine to want to be there for her no matter what. Which is more than I can say for Godfrey, who thinks being a father means paying an annual visit to his goddamn FAMILY and judges people for failing when he’s perhaps the biggest failure in the room.

• Waltz time!

• Though between Esther not having a twirly skirt and Drake having an injured shoulder I’m not sure they even looked that good.

• WTF ESTHER WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU DOES THAT LOOK LIKE A MAN WHO IS IN ANY CONDITION TO MANAGE A LIFT

•

HE’S NOT JOHNY CASTLE AND THIS ISN’T DIRTY DANCING. STOP PUTTING DRAKE IN A CORNER.

• AT LEAST BABY DIDN’T MAKE JOHNY LIFT HER ON AN INJURED ARM. AND AT LEAST THEY AGREED TO DO IT TOGETHER NOT SPRUNG IT ON HIM LIKE A FUCKING JACK-IN-THE-BOX.

• “He winces at the pressure on his arm, but smiles through it”. …damn I’m angry at my own MC now.

• Drinking game time!!

• I’m not going to comment much on the scene because it’s going to be part of my group scenes essay, but I *will* say I’m so happy Hana gets her due in this one. She really shines in terms of character development in this scene and she gets the best line this whole chapter xD xD xD

•

• I think Hana has had this burn simmering in her pressure cooker ever since the bell-pepper episode in Shanghai 😂😂

• “You all know there’s more to me than liking whiskey, right?”

This is unfair and inaccurate, people. Of course there’s more. He likes cheeseburgers and pasta and greasy junk food too, cmon.

• I recall speaking not too long ago about how Madeleine and Hana had very different approaches to similar issues (family pressure, feeling like they are failures, broken engagements with men they didn’t love), and that Madeleine very possibly faced a lot of family pressure (I was wrong about the source being Adeleide, though). To me this forms part of why Hana can see Madeleine the way no one else can, and why it’s essential to have her around when Madeleine opens up.

• This doesn’t really change my opinion of Madeleine, though. It makes sense of some things, but in my mind nothing can really justify the sick pleasure Madeleine gets out of breaking people. She makes excuses for herself by calling it “not tiptoeing on other people’s fragile feelings”, but that would imply she was just being honest and not actively working towards making people feel like shit. In both Hana and Penelope’s cases she was actively working on making them feel like they were beneath her, and enjoying doing that. To me what she did, especially to Hana, was emotional abuse. Speaking ecstatically about “breaking” a human being who has harmed you in no way, is abusive. No more, no less.

• Please don’t tell me a Madeleine and Hana ship will be a thing now. No. Eww. I’d rather not pair Hana with someone who was actively trying to break her. I don’t care how much of a “crush” Madeleine seems to have.

• No matter how misguided Adeleide’s attempts to parent Madeleine are, to me she clearly wins the parenting stakes hands down. She may have made Madeleine feel like she couldn’t mourn what happened to her, but at least she views her daughter as more of a human being than a prize horse.

•

Didn’t lie to get her way? Was saying “I’m allergic to chocolate and you could have killed me” just a figment of my imagination then???

•

• You have to be fucking kidding me. The MC is a duchess now. The Beaumonts are supposed to be helping her. These three should be at the top of their itinerary right now, not throwing things together at the last minute every chapter. Isn’t this Unity Tour supposed to be about knowing your allies and enemies, and preparing accordingly? Being unprepared (somehow, barely) made sense to some extent in the first two books, but things are different now.

• Penelope next week! That woman owes us big time.

General Thoughts on this Chapter:

• Things I feel might come up in Penelope’s estate:

1. Penelope’s anxiety and her parents’ fears about sending her back to court

2. Personal issues within the family maybe? Perhaps Penelope’s desire to take up pet couture designing and her mother’s disapproval of the same might feature.

3. At some point there may be some sort of redemption arc for her where she gets reminded of her involvement in what happened to the MC earlier. Penelope clearly owes the MC a great debt for letting her off the hook so easily.

4. I’ll be damned if I have to play therapist for these people too 😠

• This whole idea of “meddling” is stupid. These people are adults. Grown people, who should be expected to know how to handle their own lives and talk to each other. The royalty/the MC shouldn’t be expected to babysit them. That’s not what we came here for.

• It stings even more when you take into account that the common public is feeling pretty terrified at the moment, and having their own, and here we are busy resolving the family squabbles of rich people.

• It highlights even more strongly what’s wrong with the whole idea of a Unity Tour. I’m hoping this “resolving-aristocrat-issues” thing won’t become a pattern because it’s beginning to look ridiculous.

• @ladynevrakis mentions in her excellent write-up on this week’s chapter that this chapter is a lot better if you’re a non-Liam shipper, and extremely frustrating if you are.

Correct on both counts. As the MC you’re just starting out as a noblewoman, and you will need all the support you can get. If you’re with Drake (especially Drake), Hana or Maxwell, you get plenty opportunities for support from all of them. With Liam, you barely get a few lines here and there before he’s completely MIA. There is no opportunity for Liam or his fiancee to talk properly, or work together as a team. And this house is unquestionably the toughest one, so why does the writing not give Liam any chance to truly be there for her when she needs it???

• I can understand why he wasn’t there for the most part. In the Neville sequence he isn’t there precisely because the writers need to highlight how people treat Drake when Liam isn’t around (and to show what people say about Liam behind his back), and there is no way you could have Liam around in either the group scene or the final scene with the family without making things worse (daughter’s former fiancè, hello?). Plus if the MC is not engaged to him, it would look weird for him to be present at some of these conversations.

STILL, there were a whole range of ways you could write him without him actually being involved in the patch-up, and still do justice to his character:

1. Eat with the group: The group eating scene could have been a perfect time to have Liam come, speak about his progress with convincing ppl, bond with the group over the delicious spread, and leave before Neville enters.

2. Check in periodically: Liam is my MC’s fiancè. They are here together on their first tour as a couple. They’re doing this tour for his people and his country. She is a newcomer and it is essential he has her back. It wouldn’t have hurt to have him come in on occasion and ask her how she is holding up. It wouldn’t have taken more than a scene or two, really, and it could have worked perfectly both on a neutral and romantic level. If you’re going to make Drake such a huge presence in this chapter that you’d go the extra mile and write him two ways, you can very well do the same for Liam. It’s even more essential in his case because he is the King of Cordonia and pretty damn invested in making this tour work.

3. Have the MC notice what Liam was doing independent of her: The writing team is no stranger to writing conversations that don’t involve the MC’s presence at all. We know Liam was spending time speaking to the few nobles in attendance, but we’re never shown how he does this or whether he succeeds. I know he’s as hard at work as the MC is, but I don’t see what he’s doing. Could you really blame readers for thinking he is less involved, then?

4. The Little Things: A gentle touch here, a smile there if he’s your fiancè. Things you would do with your partner when you don’t have much time together but still want to show them they care.

It’s not like the writers don’t know how to involve Liam. They’ve done a really good job of this in the past. The entire social season saw Liam working behind the scenes to ensure the MC was protected and cared for, even when he couldn’t be involved. The engagement tour had him pitching in to help whenever it didn’t seem too suspicious to. In all these instances they kept in mind Liam’s role and limitations, and STILL managed to make him proactive.

The writers had plenty opportunity this chapter to have Liam be there for her in small ways, but hardly bothered to involve him. I appreciate wanting to make his interactions as neutral as possible but that doesn’t mean you don’t put any effort into writing him at all.

To add insult to serious injury, this chapter follows another one where the MC practically takes over Liam’s speech (post the video), leaving Liam with little space to do anything besides agreeing with her. It’s essential - now more than ever - to portray Liam as decisive and proactive, yet the writing has him take 10 steps backwards in terms of character development. The MC is his fiancèe/close friend now. She should be able to see him properly as a politician and a leader at this point. If that doesn’t get resolved soon, we’re in danger of screwing up an interesting character who has a lot of potential.

• I’m still holding out on this book, because it’s still early and I believe they can turn things around and ensure there is a fair balance between the LIs. They are taking what we say into consideration and they have worked hard to make our other LIs’ interactions with us as safe and platonic as possible. I think this is a matter of balance, and I still think they can manage to do a good job of it once they ensure there is a balance.

• But this chapter? I’m not going pretend I’m happy.

[axwalker]

The trade 4

Synopsis: This is an AU where the monarchy in Cordonia doesn’t longer exist and it has been replaced by a republic. It’s set in the final stages of the presidential race with Senator Liam Rhys competing against Fidelya’s Governor Godfrey Karlington. To assure his son’s victory, Constantine makes an arrangement behind his back for him to marry the rich ambassador’s daughter: Alexis O’Brien. Due to her father’s threats she has no other option that seduce Liam and make him fall in love with her. But what does she really feel? 

Pairings: LiamxMC DrakexMC

Warnings: I love drama and chaos so this will probably get dark. In this chapter there is mild talk about parental abuse

Please note that this is my first series and English is not my first language. I really love ALL kinds of feedback.  Don’t hesitate to comment!

Disclaimer: All characters belong to Pixelberry except for Alexis O’Brien and her parents George O’Brien JR. and Elena Ortiz

To catch up: Masterlist

Thanks to the incredible @of-course-i-went-to-hartfeld​ for being my beta reader! I love you

I'm tagging those who asked, if you want to be added to the list just ask, I'll be happy too :)   

@pug-bitch​ @texaskitten30​ @burnsoslow​ @beardedoafdonutwagon​ @mskaneko​ @pedudley​ @kingliam2019​ @msjr0119​ @of-course-i-went-to-hartfeld​

Flashback: 26 years ago

 Elena Ortiz was so lucky that she had married the man of her dreams. Never in a million years, she would’ve guessed that her deepest desire would come true for her. Admittedly, she was a beautiful woman, but she was also a poor immigrant who had to work very hard to make something of herself. She had met George O’Brien working as a maid for his family and since the day she had lay eyes on him she had been in love. He was a handsome, elegant man who treated her with respect, and she could feel that his gaze was always on her when she was around. Finally, after months of longing looks and hidden touches, at the end of a very drunken party, he had gone to her room, at the back of the house, and seduced her. She was more than happy to let him, thinking that her love was reciprocated, that he loved her as much as she did. But after that heated night, she hadn’t heard from him. When he came to see his parents, he ignored her, treating her like he did the other maids, coldly and distant. Until one afternoon everything changed when Elena found out she was pregnant. She came from a very religious family so no many options were open to her. Desperate, she decided to ask for his help, but he had dismissed her insinuating that he hadn’t been the only one in her life. George thought he could convince his parents to fire her and forget about the problem, but they had been adamant, they regretted that their son had mixed with the help, but they were strict Catholics, and he had to fix his mistake by marrying her. His mother had promised to take Elena under her wing and teach how to behave and to give her the aura of an educated woman, like the one he was supposed to marry. And truth be told Sienna O’Brien had been gladly surprised by her old maid, who had revealed to be a smart, talented woman capable of shinning wherever she went despite her background. They could’ve been a happy couple; Elena had done everything she could to make George happy and proud of her, but it was impossible. The attraction he had felt for her at the beginning was gone and it had been replaced, first by disdain and finally, by hate... He never forgot that he had been forced to marry her, and he had vowed that he would make her life a living hell, not only for her but for the bastard she was carrying.

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

Maxwell looked around the room satisfied with himself. He had pulled the party of the year and everyone seemed happy, even Regina Rhys had congratulated him and he knew first-hand how difficult to please she could be. He was aware people saw him as a very funny, and shallow party planner, but he didn’t care. Underneath that superfluous first impression, he was a caring and giving human being. Lately, his relationship was causing him so much pain that he needed all the parties and buzz to escape. Maxwell was in love, he knew it, but he wasn't sure his feelings were reciprocated. He was pulled out of his thoughts by Penelope, cofounder of “Bash events”, who was asking him a question about Hana.

 “Wow, Max! Look at her dress! She’s so beautiful! I admire her so much” She was grinning. “But who is she talking too? Do you know her?”

Max turned around curious to see who Penelope was talking about, and he couldn’t be more surprised to see it was Elena, the girl he and Drake had met at the restaurant the day before. He started to smile remembering how smitten his best friend seemed when he left the restaurant with her.  Max knew he had to find him fast.

“Wait here, Penn, I have something to do”

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

Drake was still glued to the bar, thinking about what he had just witnessed. Not only he had seen Elena again, something he had been feverishly wishing since he had dropped her at the restaurant last night, but he had witnessed his best friend, his brother, in complete awe at her. He was about to get up to talk to them when a beautiful redhead sat on the stool next to him. 

 “Hi Walker,” she smiled at him sardonically. “Trying to beat your own record of the number of whiskeys drank before midnight?”

 “I actually feel bad for you right now” He smirked, “that was a really bad joke, Liv.”

 “Well, forgive me” She smiled sadly. “But I’ve actually drunk a record number of champagne glasses tonight.” She was watching Liam laugh with Hana and Alexis. “He has been with that bitch all night, I don’t know what to do anymore, Drake” 

 “Well, forgive my honesty but you’ve tried everything except to assault him at his bed while he’s sleeping.” Drake sighed “It’s been 3 years Liv, it might be time to move on. You’re an amazing woman with a great military career. What would your subordinates say if they saw you being all weak about a man, eh?”

 “Yeah right, move on” She spat angrily at him “You have no idea what you’re talking about Walker. Everybody knows you’re a fucking manwhore, so let’s talk again when you grow a heart” 

 Drake nodded, watching her leave. He had grown up with Olivia, so her sudden outbursts didn’t surprise or offended him anymore. His gaze returned to Elena.  -fuck she looked beautiful in that dress-  

Drake sighed wistfully and saw Liam excuse himself and come to the bar to get a drink. 

 “Hi, Drake,” his friend said, a huge grin in his face, “amusing yourself?” 

“He! I’ve been worse, Beaumont chose a great whiskey.” He looked at Liam intrigued. “You, on the other hand, seem to be having a great time, I see you met Elena.”

Liam looked puzzled. “Who’s Elena?”

“The girl on white you’ve been talking to, her name is Elena, I ac-“

“Oh, her name is not Elena, is Alexis.” He turned his head at her “She’s ambassador’s O’Brien daughter.” 

It was Drake’s turn to look puzzled

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

Alexis was happily talking with Hana when she saw Liam talking to a tall man at the bar, she couldn’t see his face but something in his demeanor gave her a familiar feeling.

She decided to go looking for Liam. Almost freezing, she saw that next to the man destined to be her fiancé, was standing the man she had spent the previous night kissing. The same one that had kissed her like no one before. Her heart started beating strongly when she realized they were both looking at her, Alexis couldn’t afford Liam to know the truth. That would ruin everything. 

 Drake was about to correct Liam and tell him that she was Elena, the woman he had met last night when he saw her coming with the corner of his eye.

 “Hi Liam!” her voice was as silvery as he remembered, “Who’s your friend?” Drake looked at her confused.

 “This is my best friend, my almost brother, Drake Walker” Liam was smiling at her with an affection Drake had never seen before. 

 “Hi, Drake! I’m Alexis, Alexis O’Brien” She gave him a begging look and offered her hand.

Drake took it and felt again the same electricity he had felt the night before. Judging by how quickly she took her hand away, she had felt it too. “Nice to meet you, Alexis.” He turned to Liam “I’ll go looking for Liv, she wasn’t feeling great earlier” 

He started walking as fast as he could without drawing attention. Drake couldn’t get far away from them fast enough. 

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

 Rashad Domvallier was a proud man. He came from a prominent family with a lot of money. If Liam won, he would be the youngest Minister of Commerce and on top of all that, he had a beautiful, qualified fiancé who had been offered a great position as well. They would be the new power couple of Cordonia, and someday, who knows? Maybe he would be president himself. He smiled when he saw Kiara dancing closely with Neville; she was smiling at him, seeming very interested in the conversation but Rashad knew she was only trying to get more funds for Liam’s campaign. Neville seemed completely mesmerized by her, Rashad would be surprised if he didn’t try to give her his state at the end of the evening. Neville was his best friend, but for a good check, he could flirt with his fiancé all he wanted. 

Kiara saw Rashad looking at them, so she got close to Neville to get his attention but as usual, it didn’t work. She was a practical woman, and even if she loved Rashad, she knew that after 10 years of relationship, he wasn’t going to play the jealous boyfriend and make a fool of himself. Still, deep down she longed for a relationship with a man who would sweep her off her feet, who would make her feel something animal and passionate. Unwillingly, her gaze turned at the brooding man talking to the candidate. She had always been attracted to him. Kiara noticed that his gaze was glued to the woman in front of him, she had a nice dress, and one couldn’t deny that she was beautiful. Seeing the way Drake was devouring her with his eyes, Kiara felt something she hadn’t in a long time, something she desperately wanted Rashad to feel for her: Jealousy.

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

Maxwell went looking for Drake to give him the good news, when he heard someone crying softly in the balcony, behind the curtains. 

 “Elena?, Is that you?” She turned her head, cleaning her eyes with the back of her hands 

 “Yes, it is me, I mean…” She stopped unsure of how to continue and desperate for the situation she had put herself into. “I mean, my name is not Elena, that’s my mother’s name. I’m Alexis. Last night, I… I…”

 “You were trying to get out of your life for a little while?” he asked softly “Hey! Don’t cry, I’m not judging” 

 “You’re not?” She asked quietly.

 “Nop, been there done that, more times than I can count.” He smiled. “Once I was trying to get into one of the infamous Leo Rhys's parties, I was underage so I pretended to be my brother Bertrand. When he found out he almost killed me”. He laughed at the memory “Why did you do it? What’s your story?”

 “I don’t have one, I just didn’t want to be the ambassador’s daughter for one night.” 

 “I get that too; it can be overwhelming being related to a prominent politician. My father was Constantine Rhys’s vice-president. I mean, granted, it would get me laid a lot, and I was invited to all the good parties, and of course, there were the gifts baskets everybody gave us…” he seemed in a trance

“Well it doesn’t sound like you were that tired of it Max.” She grinned.

“Hehe! It’s true, a lot of the time I was happy to enjoy all the perks but others…” He shuddered “Let’s just say I get you, Lexie, can I call you Lexie?” 

She smiled widely “Of course Max, and…” she looked right to his eyes. “Thank you”

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

Drake thought about it... about letting her go. Liam seemed so smitten with her and so happy for the first time in so long that Drake had almost decided to forget about that night at the cove. Especially, because she wasn’t being honest with him, or Liam…but looking at her dance and laugh with Max, observing the way she moved her hands when she talked, so full of grace, of life, he decided that he couldn’t give her up. She was special, he could feel it in his bones, and he had met her first, after all. If Elena or whatever her name was wanted him too, Liam would have to understand. But he had to talk to her first. At the end of the dance, Max bowed at her mockingly and she had left the ballroom. Drake followed her to through the door, her white gown floating behind her.

 “Wait, El... fuck! Alexis! Wait!” Drake watched her stop. “What the fuck was that?”

 “What do you want Drake? I thought everything was pretty clear” She hated herself for what she was saying, but she had to, she had no choice. “I knew I was coming here tonight to meet Liam tonight. I was very excited but also very stressed, so I went out last night because I needed to blew some steam, that’s it.” Her self-hatred only grew stronger when she saw the hurt in his eyes

 She made a move to leave but her back was against the wall of the hall so Drake put his hands at each side of her shoulders, trapping her between his arms

 “What are you playing at, Alexis, Elena, or whatever your name is? I was there last night, remember? You were saying how much you hated your life, how much you wanted to escape...” He got closer to her, his mouth next to her ears, almost whispering; his voice was deep and soft at the same time, his eyes trying to meet hers. “And the way you kissed me, the way you were looking at me, I didn’t imagine that.” 

She avoided his gaze, looking pointedly to the floor, so Drake took her chin between his fingers to make her look at him.

“Elena, please look at me, there’s something here, I can feel it, and I’m sure you can too.” 

Alexis was tempted by him, by his soft chocolate eyes, his deep voice when he spoke at her, by that damned woody scent filling her senses. She knew he was about to lean and kiss her again, his mouth only inches apart from hers, and she wanted nothing more than to repeat the embrace that they had shared the previous night, the one that had left her inebriated. She felt his large hand in her neck, caressing her cheek with his thumb, and she almost leaned as well, when she suddenly remembered everything that was at stake. All the things her father could and certainly would do if she failed. Alexis thought about the only person she cared for, and how she was in danger, so she pushed Drake out of her way.

“Listen to me Drake, I’m the American ambassador’s daughter. Whether you believe it or not, I was playing a role last night. This is the real me, and the real me belongs with a man like Liam, so Let. Me. Go! “

 He was hurt by her words, but he didn’t let her see it. Instead, he put a sarcastic smile in his lips and pulled back from the wall letting her pass.

“Oh, I apologize, my lady! By all means, return to your man of the evening.” He said maliciously and stormed out leaving her in the middle of the hall, breathing heavily, with tears in her eyes, tears he never saw. 

#pixlr

[lordstarfury]

I've never trusted Godfrey and I still think he's bound to betray us sooner or later not ONLY because he is a sketchy old man and an emotionally constipated father, BUT he's also the Duke of Karlington. Karlington. And I don't think I need to say the demon's name but y'all know exactly who else was the Duke of Karlington in the past.

[queenofallthewrongchoices]

My God, are all Dukes of Karlington evil dickheads? I’m not shocked Godfrey was the mastermind behind Eleanors’s death but it’s weird that he went from being someone who was seemingly uninterested in Cordonian politics (based on his characterization in book 3) to being someone who is so patriotic to the point that he murdered the Queen for Cordonia’s greater good. Not to mention he isn’t Cordonian by birth, he’s English. It just seems kind of random.

[the-writerly-night-owl]

Something About a Legacy

Desire and Decorum/ Inspired by the main story and minor MC x Ernest 

Summary: 4 girls, a few of the descendants of Clara and Ernest discover just how their ancestors met and where the Sinclaire family is in the future. 

Authors Note: so they mention where Duke Richard’s Karlington is in the 21st Century (Madeleine and Godfrey) and I wanted to write something where we see what happened to the Earl of Edgewater title. 41 Days of Cheer day 10 Ancestor. This was actually super long and this really condensed from what it originally was. Also yes this is my OH MC, I intended her to be a descendant. 

I’m probably not going to get many notes for this but happy reading!  

Clarissa Sinclaire had been to London before, in fact she had done a project studying her family here. So this wasn’t new to her. It was exciting to meet the family she had never met before. After all this was the Sinclaire family reunion.

Outside of the impressive mansion (boy was it big!) stood another family member aimlessly texting on her phone.

Someone at the door was already ushering them in. It was even prettier on the inside as they stopped in the foyer. Clarissa tried to remember the details of the email. Everyone finally gathered in the main living room as she glanced around. Besides her cousin Hannah she didn’t know anyone else. She went to Hartfeld too as the two hugged. She couldn’t help but feel horrible for Hannah as her brother Jonathon had died in a car accident.

“Are you okay Hannah?” she asked as she squeezed her hand.

“I’m good,” she said as they turned attention to those around them.

“Now, I say let’s go around and get to know each other,” said the girl as she grinned at them. “Um, just to get better acquainted, me, my sister, and my brothers are your grandpa’s brother’s grandkids.” She gestured to the slightly younger girl as she grinned widely. “I’m Lizzie Sinclaire, Elizabeth if you’re my mother and angry with me. I sit in parliament, I have a law degree and all.  Oh and I’m getting married at the end of August.”

She gestured for her sister to go next as she took that as a sign to introduce herself.

“I’m Paige Sinclaire,” she said as she clapped her hands together. “Um, I’m a certified midwife and obgyn.” She made a face as she tried to think of something else to describe herself. “I enjoy meat lovers pizza.”

The rest of the girls smiled as Paige laughed at herself for thinking of something completely random. She nodded to the next person as she seemed to be relaxed and confident.

“Clarissa Sinclaire,” she said smoothly.  “I’m a doctor at Edenbrook Hospital in Boston. I’m married and have two kids but couldn’t really bring them. Ethan is a doctor too and has a schedule that’s a little bit stricter than mine.”

She nodded to Hannah as she seemed to be last.

“I’m Hannah Sinclaire,” she said feeling a little foolish adding her last name, everyone had that last name. “I also graduated from Hartfeld too, except my undergrad is in history. I’m going back to get my graduate degree in psychology though.”

It was relaxed as everyone seemed to know each other a little better. Lizzie started to pass around a paper.

“Alright so I figured since we’re here for a few weeks setting up and the reunion. We could have some fun. We have a few items to find but that’s about it. The list is what we need.”

She peered at it and grinned. Perfect, just a few ancestral items that they’d display during the reunion.

 The list of what they were looking for passed around as she folded hers and stuck it in her back pocket. The others started to pair off to make things easier. There were only four of them and two to a few rooms didn’t sound horrible. Hannah and Lizzie started toward one wing. Paige and Clarissa in the other direction.

Ledford was beautiful, she thought, as they looked down at the list.

“So, we’re looking for a few different items, it looks like we already have a pocket watch engraved with a message from Lydia Sinclaire on it. Then a tiara dating back to William the Conqueror? Dang, I didn’t know we had that family far back. We’re looking for a sword, a WWI medal…” She listed off each item as she best as she could and the note saying that they could keep whatever caught their fancy. Neat.

For the next half hour or so the girls swiftly cleared out as many rooms as they could. Finally she and Paige found themselves in a small office area with books on one shelf and the window overlooking the front.

Curious Clarissa studied the books on the shelf. Each of them had a name engraved on the side of different names: Hannah, Marie, Lydia, Clara, Josephine. The books stretched on depending on the name. Hannah had roughly thirty books, meanwhile Emma had two. What kind of books were these, she thought, before pulling the one at the top of the shelf off.

Clarissa guessed that all the books were in order as she dusted off the shelf. Everything in this room hadn’t been touched anytime recently. Her fingers ran over the spines as she pulled out the first one with the name Clara on it. She pulled it out curious as that was her middle name.

She went and started to read those forgetting that she was supposed to be cleaning.

Good afternoon, morning, night, or whenever you may be reading this. Thank you for taking time to read my writing and what advice that I must give to you. The next mistress of Ledford will be my son’s wife, I trust that you will take care of him and love him just as much as I do. I am not with child yet, but I hope to be soon. I always wanted a big family and I think Ernest would love a few sons.

Let me start by introducing myself. My name is Clara Sinclaire (nee Mills) and I am fifteen years old – I only jest – I am really twenty. I will take the first few pages of my journal to introduce myself and then clear up all the misunderstanding that has surrounded me for nearly a year now. I hope the next mistress reading this will understand the truth and what I have gone through. To start I will let you know that my father was the Earl of Edgewater, Vincent. My mother an opera singer, Mary Mills.

Time went by fast as she got enraptured with the story.

“Clarissa are you okay?” asked Heather as she saw her. Cleaning was pretty much done for the first day and they were talking about sightseeing tomorrow. Since she had been to London before she could show them some of her favorite spots.

“Yea, I’m just reading these old diaries left behind from our great however many grandmothers. They have all these cool and interesting stories. I mean listen to some of this stuff.”

She turned and flipped to a page and started to read:

Ernest and I had an amazing wedding night. Just thinking about it makes my skin quiver in joy. He had taken me to our room. And we stripped bare down to nothing. The way he touched me made me feel a warmth between my legs I’ve never felt before. He had used his cravat to tie my hands above my head as he just wanted to touch me. Closing my eyes I let him.

Being frank the way he entered me and to feel his manhood enter me just wanted to make me scream and I did. I couldn’t wait to make him feel…”

The rest of the girls gasped and shared excited looks.

“Hot damn.”

“You go girl let him work his magic,” said Clarissa with a smirk. “Sounds like me and Ethan.”

“Oh my gosh this is a gold mine,” said Hannah. “Look! This moment sounds so sweet listen.”

Ernest and I held our new baby in our arms nearly the entire night. I probably slept for only a few hours. I already learned how to help change him and rock him to sleep. We have chosen to name him Vincent after my father. We probably would have never met without him.”

Together all the girls visibly awed at the thought. Then flipped through the pages as carefully as possible picking out passages to read to each other.

Ernest and I had celebrated ten years married together! That’s right ten years and we have so much to be thankful for. We have many children that would make my father proud and Lady Grandmother appalled at the sheer number. I feel loved and happy to live to see each new day. I can’t wait for 1827 and what it will bring for us this new year’s. I can’t wait to tell him that I am with child once again.

Again, another aww echoed through the room as they picked out another passage.

I watched Vincent marry Bishop Monroe’s niece with pride in my eyes and squeezed Ernest’s hand. He could only smile back and assure me in my ear that everything was perfect. But that nothing would outdo our wedding. We had never felt prouder as we exchanged a rather chaste kiss. Later we would resume that action later.

I, Clara Sinclaire, do declare that I only want my children to marry for love. I want them to feel just as strong emotions and me and Ernest do. Vincent and Amelia are great friends and even better with each other. This is how I feel about my husband and my friends with their partners.”

“You know this is rather cool to learn about our ancestors this way. I wonder if we’ll ever share our legacy like this,” said Clarissa. “Maybe one day, I’m glad that my kids last names are Ramsey-Sinclaire.”

“I wish we could meet them,” said Hannah. “I mean Clara sounds like fun.”

“Yea, why don’t we display these books?” asked Paige, “Just like a part of their story and how we came to be. I vote for when she kicked duke Richards in the nuts at some point.”

The girls burst out into laughter and nodded that was one of the best parts next to the wedding.

“Yes, that has to be displayed. I mean why not?” said Lizzie. “Just think 200 years later they have a family still standing with a title and everything.”

“True although why couldn’t our grandfather be the earl?” teased Hannah.

“Because he wasn’t born first,” said Lizzie shaking her head but smiling all the same. “That’s my dad that’s earl of Edgewater and my older brother will get that title next. And then my nephew, wow, that seems so surreal.”

They found a good place to display some of the pages and only looked on at the other souvenirs of their family with pride. Clara and Ernest Sinclaire had well over hundreds of descendants who would never know their ancestors. This was just that special connection that brought them all together. Many would come over the next couple of days to see just how cool their ancestors really were.

Tag list: @flyawayboo @fluffy-cat-whisper @am-i-invisible777 @adrianadmirer @melodyofgraves @symonde @paisleylovergirl @elainew13 @itsbrindleybinch @brightpinkpeppercorn @darley1101 @mfackenthal @jlpplays1 @writerapprentice @indescribablechoices @wildsayeed @princess-geek @perriewinklenerdie @lilyofchoices 

Of possible interest: @hellooliviaolivia @noeschoices