#kevin richards

[kittylover776]

In times like these, I wish The Princess Switch fandom (if there is one) would be much bigger than it is.

If you happen look past the fact that it’s a cheesy rom-com Hallmark Christmas trilogy, and dig a little deeper into it, you’ll see that there’s plenty of lore and backstory to explore that people tend to overlook/miss.

For example: It’s obvious that Margaret’s parents passed away when she was young, perhaps around her teenage years, although we don’t know exactly WHEN they passed, and if they died around the same time. I can only assume Mrs. Donatelli had to take on the role as a mother-figure and raise Margaret all on her own, which could also explain the close bond the two share.

Fiona’s life wasn’t so easy either. With her mother constantly away, and her father possibly neglectful towards her, she was half the time sent to boarding school with only Peter Maxwell to keep her company. As she gets older, she starts putting a wall around herself as to prevent from getting hurt, all the while keeping up a façade to not let anyone see past her, not even Margaret. Fiona even states that she’s the only family she has left, and although she tried to steal the throne from her cousin, deep down she truly cares for her, something you see a bit more in the third movie.

As for Stacy, Kevin, and Olivia…well, they’re also an important factor too.

Kevin and Stacy grew up together, having met back in high school and got each other through college, to eventually opening up a bakery. They had been best friends for years, and there was nothing they wouldn’t do for each other.

Even after Olivia was born.

It’s been implied that Olivia’s mother Karen had left when she was really young, meaning that Kev could had met her when he was still in college, but most likely never married. They had only known each other for at least two years at most before Liv was born, and wasn’t exactly expecting anything serious down the road (at least, Karen didn’t).

When Karen became pregnant, however, Kevin was ecstatic to become a father, and was hoping they could officially tie the knot in order to make it official, which his girlfriend refused, stating what they already had was good enough, and that no marriage certificate would make a difference.

Of course, Stacy had been skeptical about it, concerned if Kevin was making the right choice, to which he assured her he was, and that things would be fine.

Things however, were not exactly fine. After Olivia was born, her mother was not exactly the most involved parent, running off on day-trips and being uncomfortable with just holding her daughter, which you would guess left Kevin to do most of the work, and for a while, he did, assuming Karen wasn’t exactly used to motherhood just yet, and that she would get used to it.

Two years later however…that’s when he decided to draw the line.

Kevin had talked to her about being in their daughter’s life, stating that if she wanted to be involved, she had to put in the work. Things escalated quickly, to the point where Karen finally admits this wasn’t the life she wanted, and she didn’t want to be tied down by a family.

Later that night, Karen had left without saying a word, taking her belongings with her and leaving almost nothing behind.

If Olivia retains any memories of her mother, I’m not sure, but chances are Stacy was probably the closest thing she even had to one growing up, most likely having more memories of her than her own mother.

Now with Stacy, her backstory is a bit more vague. It was mentioned growing up, her father had taught her how to bake, which is probably what inspired her to open up a bake shop with Kevin as she got older. She had also dated a man named Paul 4 years until they broke things off.

Now, I’m not saying couples couldn’t be in long-term relationships until they’re ready for marriage, but perhaps the fact that their relationship failed in the first place was because it wasn’t as strong as either of them believed. Of course they were comfortable around each other, and I’m sure they did love one another, but perhaps there was a string of doubt in their minds that prevented them from taking their relationship to the next level, instead dragging it on and on (which could’ve resulted in Paul cheating on Stacy, also explaining Olivia’s “The man that broke your heart.” comment).

These are all the theories I can come up with at the moment. I may make some adjustments to them in the future (Kev and Stacy’s especially, since I’m still developing them), but they’re at least better than nothing.

I’m also in the works of developing an origin story for Frank and Donatelli, so you may see something about them eventually.

Anyways, thanks for coming to my Ted-Talk. 😁

[aellathedreamer]

in a world of boys, he’s a gentlemen “Got lovestruck, went straight to my head. Got lovesick, all over my bed”

A look through of Stacy and Edward’s relationship right after he proposed. The royal life, a whirlwind of emotions.

Chapter 20/40

Pairing: Stacy x Edward

Link: https://archiveofourown.org/works/51843736/chapters/131078110

"No, there's too much going on at the bodice. It looks too delicate, a bit old fashioned." Amelie's voice drowned out Stacy's flurry of thoughts. The wedding dress, a vision of regal splendor, awaited its turn under the hands of skilled designers and seamstresses.

The designer, eyes gleaming with passion, began detailing the intricacies of the gown, describing the delicate lace, the cascading veil, and the timeless elegance woven into every stitch. Amelie, equally engrossed, discussed the finer points, ensuring the dress would be a perfect reflection of Belgravia's rich tradition but reflects modern elements.

As Stacy stood amidst the whirlwind of creativity, her thoughts took a detour into the depths of contemplation. The dress, a symbol of her imminent royal union, cast a looming shadow over her emotions. The weight of expectations, the complexities in her relationship with Edward, and the looming responsibilities merged into a poignant melody that resonated in her heart.

Amelie, attuned to Stacy's occasional lapses into silence, cast a concerned yet comforting glance. The designer, still entranced by the dress's beauty, couldn't help but express the joy of creating such a masterpiece. "Bellisima, you look enchanting, Your Ladyship." 

Stacy, caught between the threads of history and the uncertainties of her own destiny, replied with a soft smile, "Thank you. It truly is a work of art."

Amelie, sensing the weight of Stacy's emotions, gently inquired, "How are you feeling, Stacy? Is there anything specific you'd like to incorporate into the design? Or is the fit too tight? Do you feel comfortable in it?"

Stacy hesitated for a moment before expressing her thoughts. "I want it to be more than just tradition. I want it to reflect the essence of who I am and who we are as a couple."

The designer nodded in understanding, "Of course, Miss De Novo. Your vision will be woven into every detail, making this gown uniquely yours."

After the session, Amelie was well aware that Stacy's mood was not the best. She could not blame her at all, as the girl experienced a turbulent week of the tabloids, a strained relationship with Edward, and all the added pressures of being a member of the royal family. Amelie, perceptive to Stacy's emotional state, suggested with a warm smile, "Stacy, let's take a break from the whirlwind. How about a little baking session? It might be a delightful way to lift your spirits and create a moment of joy."

Stacy, appreciative of Amelie's thoughtfulness, nodded. "Baking sounds like a wonderful escape right now. Let's do it."

As they retreated to the palace kitchen, the aroma of ingredients and the act of measuring, mixing, and creating together worked like a comforting balm for Stacy's soul. The simple joy of baking became a shared refuge, allowing Stacy to temporarily set aside the pressures that surrounded her.

As the aroma of sweet delights enveloped the royal kitchen, Amelie and Stacy engaged in the art of baking, seeking a momentary escape from the grandeur of their impending responsibilities. Amelie suggested whipping up simple red velvet cupcakes, a delightful choice for a casual moment of baking.

While Amelie skillfully measured ingredients and shared anecdotes of past kitchen escapades, Stacy's mind lingered in the corridors of her thoughts. Lost in the labyrinth of her emotions, the joy of baking became a temporary sanctuary, a soothing rhythm against the backdrop of her complex reality.

Amidst the gentle hum of conversation and the clinking of utensils, Stacy's wandering mind met an unexpected challenge. In an absentminded moment, she inadvertently touched the hot baking tray with her bare hands, a sudden jolt of pain breaking the spell of contemplation. "Shit!" she grumbled under her breath.

"Stacy! Are you alright?" Amelie's concern resonated as she rushed to Stacy's side.

Stacy winced, shaking off the heat from her hands. "I'm fine, just got a bit distracted. Maybe I needed a wake-up call from the cupcakes themselves."

As Amelie tended to Stacy's hands with gentle care, the unspoken understanding between them hung in the air. The kitchen, usually filled with the harmonious symphony of baking, became a haven for vulnerability. Softly, Amelie spoke, her words a subtle acknowledgment of the turmoil beneath the surface. "Stacy, you never burn anything when you bake. I know something's not okay. You can talk to me."

Stacy, her guard momentarily lowered by the intimate setting of the kitchen, sighed. "It's just... everything, Amelie. The expectations, the conflicts. I feel like I'm losing myself in this role. Sometimes, my mind wanders if I should just hop a plane back to Chicago."

"Stacy, it's natural to have doubts, especially in the face of such monumental decisions. Your feelings are valid," Amelie reassured, her gaze soft yet steady. "But before you board that plane, consider the love you and Edward share. It's a rare and precious thing. Its the most genuine form of love I've ever seen in my service here in the palace."

Stacy, torn between the familiarity of her past life and the uncertainty of the royal future, sighed. "Amelie, I never imagined it would be this complicated. I love Edward, but I can't help but wonder if love is enough to navigate the intricacies of this life."

Amelie, offering a cup of tea to soothe both body and soul, spoke with a wisdom honed by years of royal service. "Love is a powerful force, Stacy, but it's not the only ingredient in this intricate recipe. Communication, compromise, and understanding play their roles as well. You and Edward have a connection that could weather these challenges, but it requires both of you to be open and honest."

Stacy, cradling the warm cup in her hands, contemplated the crossroads she found herself facing. The royal kitchen, once a haven for shared moments, now held the weight of decisions that could reshape destinies. As the fragrance of tea and unresolved dilemmas lingered, Stacy knew that the choice she made would echo beyond the confines of the palace walls.

—

With the grace only found in innocence, the young prince stumbled, his tiny hands reaching out for the support and reassurance a parent typically provides. King George, however, met this vulnerability with a cold detachment that belied the warmth inherent in familial bonds.

The young prince, on the verge of tears, held out a hand towards his father. King George, unyielding in his approach to royal discipline, uttered words that resonated with a harsh reality.

"Stand yourself up, Edward," the king declared, his gaze unwavering. "A future king doesn't dilly-dally on the floor."

In the courtly dance of royalty, the young prince was left to fend for himself, a poignant tableau of a childhood marked by the absence of paternal warmth. The attendants, ever dutiful to the king's commands, hurried to the young prince's aid, their hands reaching out where a father's touch was absent.

Edward closes his eyes again, the scene then changes.

In the vast halls of the palace, a young Edward often found himself standing alone, gazing at the ornate decorations that adorned the regal walls. The distant echoes of royal court discussions reached his ears, but the figure of King George remained elusive, a shadow casting a long and cold absence.*

Queen Caroline, his mother, would delicately explain, "Edward, your father is burdened with the weight of the kingdom. His duties demand much of his time."

Amelie, the loyal confidante, would offer comfort, "You have the love of your mother, and I'll be here for you as well."

As Edward grew, the void left by his father's absence became a defining aspect of his life. He sought solace in the company of those who stayed by his side, creating a haven within the palace's walls where love and understanding served as the pillars of his existence.

In the hallowed halls where the memories of a distant father lingered, Edward grappled with the complex dance between duty and familial connection. The paternal void that shaped his early years left its mark, shaping his approach to love, relationships, and the delicate balance of royal responsibilities.

As Edward navigated the intricate threads of his present, the echoes of an absent father whispered, influencing his choices and interactions. The tension with King George, his distant and disapproving father, reverberated through the palace, casting a shadow on the path to love and acceptance.

The grand council chamber was adorned with tapestries depicting the storied history of Belgravia. Edward, a younger prince then, stood in stark contrast to the imposing figure of King George. The atmosphere crackled with tension.

"Edward, you must understand the legacy you're set to inherit. Our kingdom thrives on the foundation of tradition." His father, the King tells him.

"But Father, the world is changing. We must adapt, embrace new perspectives." Edward implores.

King George sighs deeply. "Tradition is the bedrock of our stability, to deviate from it risks the very essence of Belgravia."

As Edward approached marriage with Stacy, the memories of those clashes lingered. The council meetings, where differing visions clashed like swords, haunted him. The desire for his father's acceptance and the acknowledgment of his chosen path weighed heavily on his heart. Edward navigated the delicate intricacies of impending marriage, the specter of his father's disapproval cast a long shadow. The weight of the crown was not just a symbol of authority; it carried the burdens of an unresolved father-son dynamic.

Being a ruler meant the king were to spend less time with his son.

Amidst the opulence of the palace, where every corridor whispered secrets of royal lineage, Edward grappled with his desire for a harmonious familial connection. The ghosts of the past lingered, shaping the contours of his leadership, love, and the quest to bridge the gap between tradition and progress. The weight of his father's expectations, the echoes of countless disagreements, and the yearning for approval became threads entwined in the fabric of his soul.

Amidst the splendor of the royal gardens, where blooming roses mirrored the fragility of familial bonds, a poignant conversation unfolded. The king had summoned his son after the fiasco at Wembley Studio. He was livid over his son proposing over a live and televised event. "Edward, you are the heir to the throne. Your actions reflect not just on you, but on the entire kingdom. Proposing in front of the camera, that was uncalled for."

King George's voice, a haunting refrain in his mind, urged him to ponder the very foundations of his choices. The disapproval etched in his father's gaze during heated discussions resurfaced, and Edward faced an internal struggle—how to reconcile duty with personal convictions.

"Father, love knows no boundaries. Stacy makes me happy, and together, we can forge a future that harmonizes tradition and modernity. I simply do not want her to leave my side, and I proposed because I was already sure of her." He counters, defending his actions.

"Edward, happiness is a fleeting emotion. The stability of the kingdom rests on foundations that cannot be compromised. You are a prince, not a lovesick puppy!"

—

It was a bright sunny afternoon when Stacy held the phone to her ear, the subtle hum of a transatlantic connection carrying Margaret's voice. The unexpected call piqued her interest, and she listened attentively as Margaret's words filled the air. It was quite unusual of Margaret to call as the duchess was usually preoccupied with her own responsibilities.

"Stacy, darling, surprise!" Margaret's voice, laced with excitement, greeted her.

"Margaret? What's going on?" Stacy asked, a hint of confusion coloring her tone.

Just then, another voice chimed in, and Stacy's eyes widened in recognition. "Is that... Kevin?"

"Guilty as charged!" Kevin's cheerful response echoed through the phone.

Stacy's shock turned into a mixture of surprise and joy. "What are you doing in Chicago, Margaret?"

Margaret's laughter bubbled through the phone. "Well, I thought I'd make a little detour before heading to Belgravia. Kevin and I are here, and we wanted to spend some quality time before we fly there for the wedding."

Stacy, caught off guard but genuinely touched, couldn't help but smile. "You both flew are flying early here for me?"

"Absolutely! It's not every day your best friend becomes a princess. We couldn't miss the chance to share in the joy. Is Edward treating you well?," Kevin asks, his enthusiasm palpable even through the phone.

Margaret added, "And it's been ages since I've been to Chicago. Thought it would be the perfect opportunity for a little adventure."

"Hey, let her answer my question, Mugs." Kevin complains, and Stacy could hear shuffling as Kevin took over the phone. She chuckled at her friend's choice of nickname for his beloved. "Is Edward treating you well, Stace?" He asks.

Stacy, appreciating the sincerity of the gesture, felt warmth spreading within her. "Yeah... Hmm he does. Edward is currently in parliament. I can’t wait to see you.” She lies smoothly.

"Well, get ready for a fabulous time, my dear. Can't wait to see you!" Margaret exclaimed, the excitement in her voice mirroring the anticipation building in Stacy's heart.

As the conversation unfolded, Margaret, perceptive as ever, picked up on nuances in Stacy's voice. "Stacy, darling, you can't fool me. How are you really doing?"

Stacy hesitated for a moment, realizing her attempt to mask her emotions had been transparent to her discerning friend. "I'm... I'm doing great, Margaret. Just caught up in the whirlwind of wedding preparations, you know."

Margaret's response was a knowing chuckle and she lowered her voice a bit so Kevin would not hear their conversation. "Nice try, but I know you too well. We'll talk more about it once I'm there in Belgravia. No secrets between us, okay?"

Stacy, grateful for Margaret's understanding, nodded even though the distance couldn't be seen through the phone. "Deal. Can't wait to see you and catch up properly."

The assurance of Margaret's imminent arrival brought a sense of comfort to Stacy, a reminder that amidst the grandeur and formality of royal life, there were friendships that transcended the barriers of titles and obligations. Two more weeks felt like an eternity.

—

Queen Caroline, concerned about the well-being of her soon-to-be daughter-in-law, summoned Amelie for an update. As Amelie entered the queen's presence, she could feel the weight of responsibility and scrutiny.

"Amelie, please have a seat," Queen Caroline gestured gracefully, her eyes revealing a mix of concern and expectation.

Amelie took a seat, her posture poised but with a hint of weariness. "Your Majesty," she greeted respectfully.

"Tell me, Amelie, how is Stacy holding up? I've heard whispers of rumors, and I worry about her," Queen Caroline inquired, her maternal instincts taking precedence.

Amelie chose her words carefully, aware of the delicate nature of the situation. "Your Majesty, Stacy has been going through a challenging time. The rumors in the press have taken a toll on her emotionally. We're working on a plan to address the situation and provide a more accurate narrative, but Stacy needs some time to navigate through her feelings."

Queen Caroline nodded thoughtfully. "It's crucial that Stacy feels supported and understood. I trust you to guide her with compassion, Amelie. Remember, the strength of our monarchy lies not just in tradition but in the well-being of our family members."

"I understand, Your Majesty," Amelie replied with a determined expression. "I will do my utmost to support Stacy and ensure that the image portrayed in the media aligns with the truth."

Queen Caroline offered a reassuring smile. "Very well, Amelie. Keep me informed, and don't hesitate to seek counsel if needed. We're a family, and we face these challenges together."

Amelie, standing before Queen Caroline, felt compelled to convey the delicate truth about Stacy's emotional state. With measured words, she spoke, "Your Majesty, Stacy's emotional well-being is intricately tied to her support system, particularly her connection with Prince Edward. In recent times, as they face challenges and rumors, Stacy has found solace and strength in their bond."

She continued, choosing her words carefully, "The strain on their relationship, and the rumors circulating in the press, have shaken Stacy. It's evident that her sense of security relies heavily on the support and understanding she receives from Prince Edward. Without that anchor, she seems to falter, and navigating the complexities of her new role becomes even more challenging."

Amelie's gaze remained steady, respectful yet sincere, as she awaited Queen Caroline's response. The queen absorbed the information, recognizing the fragility of the situation and the importance of preserving the foundation upon which Stacy's resilience rested.

Amelie took a breath before continuing, her commitment to transparency evident in her words. "Your Majesty, the strain in Stacy's relationship with Prince Edward is compounded by his absence during these challenging times. While I understand the demands of his duties, Stacy's emotional well-being is delicate, and the support she needs from him is crucial."

Queen Caroline's brow furrowed in concern. "Why isn't Edward by Stacy's side? In times of hardship, they should face these challenges together."

Amelie explained, "Your Majesty, Prince Edward has been occupied with parliamentary responsibilities and official matters. It appears that the demands on his time have left Stacy feeling isolated. I believe their connection is vital, and if not nurtured in these trying times, there's a risk that the strain might lead to more severe consequences, possibly even reconsidering the engagement."

Queen Caroline's expression shifted, a mix of worry and determination. "We cannot allow this situation to escalate further. Edward needs to prioritize his responsibilities, but he must also prioritize his relationship with Stacy. We must find a way to ensure that they face these challenges as a united front. I'll see what i can do, George is keeping Edward on his toes in parliament. That boy never seemed to catch a break."

[bebx]

nothing against Pedro Pascal, I love him, but for me, Ioan Gruffudd will always be the iconic, most perfect Reed Richards and no one else can play him like Ioan does.

that being said, it would be super great to see Ioan as Reed again where he teamed up with Pedro’s Reed and John Krasinski’s Reed (so we had 3 Reed Richards variants from different timelines).

also credit to @doseofthreecuties , thank you for putting these photos together. our Reed Richards ♡

[marshall0w0]

EXPRESSION MEME

[spooky-month-archive]

Spooky Month 5: Tender Treats end credit art concepts

[jbwashere]

Doodling the SM cast comment down who I missed, I want to doodle everyone^^

[katherinehoughtoncastle47]

8.17 - DEATH WISH

[katebeckets]

GET TO KNOW ME  ✰ [8/10] TV Shows ⤷ Castle (2009-2016)

"There is a universal truth that we all have to face, whether we want to or not: everything eventually ends... but... there are some people who are so much a part of us, they'll be with us no matter what. They are our solid ground. Our North Star. And the small clear voices in our hearts that will be with us—always."

[hazylyrics]

Richard Campbell Gansey III and Kevin Day would be the most obnoxious people to play Settlers of Catan with, and you can't convince me otherwise.

[wherethemothsgrow]

Gansey 🤝 Kevin Day

Having hella chemistry with everyone in the series

[itsnotmourn]

@yalibat and i made a spooky month x dungeon meshi au on magma !

[kittylover776]

Runaway Bride

Was inspired by @aellathedreamer‘s fan-fic, “Some Girls” and decided to do my own ‘what-if-scenario’, had Margaret and Edward gone through with the wedding (reluctantly), only for Margaret to get cold feet the last minute and deciding to bail, leaving Edward standing at the alter confused, but understanding as to why she did it.

This is just the first chapter of it. I’m still working on writing it and will most likely be making edits to this once it’s completed, but rest assured, it’s going to be an adventure. For Margaret especially. XD

Anyways, hope you enjoy this snippet of it!

And @aellathedreamer, this is for you! Your fan-fic was both emotional and awesome! 😁

Chapter 1

 The sound of music filled Margaret’s ears as she stood firmly outside the wedding hall, eyes glued to the large wooden doors that sheltered her from the dozens of eyes awaiting her arrival, that including her husband-to-be, Prince Edward. After the truth was revealed to Edward, confessing of her switch with Stacy, the two begged his parents to call off the wedding, in which they refused. George was insistent they go through with the wedding, informing the two that it was their duty, while Caroline could only look away in shame. She could understand the duo’s plight, and while she was informed of the switch, she knew her husband was less than thrilled of the situation, and refused to let his son be married off to a commoner, let alone one from the states. 

Edward had plighted to her mother, using any ounce of persuasion he could possibly muster. 

“Please, Mother.” He gently begged. “You have to side with me on this!” 

Caroline stayed silent, feeling her husband’s disapproving gaze towards her. She closed her eyes, not willing to see her son’s broken expression. 

“This isn’t up for discussion, son. You both shall be married on Christmas Day, no exceptions.” 

“But Stacy’s not just anyone! She brought out a side of me I didn’t know I had! She’s fun, organized, beautiful, and overall a good leader. I believe she would make for a fantastic ruler, if you just gave her a chance.” 

His father shook his head. “I don’t know what’s come over you Edward, but I cannot let some random girl you recently met help rule our kingdom. She has no idea how the monarchy works, and has little to no experience with dealing with our people.”  

Margaret decided to intervene. “Your Majesty, if you would please listen-“ 

“I’ve listened long enough.” The King remained firm. “And as for the little stunt you pulled, you should be grateful we’re being so lenient towards you. Do you have any idea the damage you and your supposed “doppelganger” caused?!” He asked indigently. 

Margaret shrank a bit. “Well, I…I just-“ 

“I’m sure she’s well aware, Father.” Edward defended on her behalf, his tone rising just a tad. “Rest assured, we’ll be sure to apologize to everyone we deceived.” 

“I deceived Edward.” The Duchess corrected. “Everyone, including you.” 

“And us.” George corrected. “Which is why once the wedding is gone through, I expect you to make a public formal apology, is that understood?” 

Margaret nodded obediently, her head hung low. “Yes, your Majesty.” 

“Good. Now back onto the matter at hand.” He stared at them intently. “This wedding shall proceed, as it is the duty of both of you to unite our kingdoms. The King of Montenaro expects his niece to be wed, and we shall not disappoint him. The fate of this rests on you two.” 

Edward wanted to argue more, he really did, but his fiancée placed a gentle hand on his shoulder, stopping him before doing so. “We understand, your Majesty.” She replied while looking towards Edward. “It’s our duty.” The prince noticed her eyes glossing over, the pained look she wore telling him they’re not going to win this. He clenched his fists, taking a deep breath, and looked back at his father. 

“Fine.” Was all he could say before leaving the room, Margaret watching as he left. 

Caroline finally turned towards the duchess, her own look not better. 

“I’m truly sorry.” Her voice just barely above a whisper. “You know this is the right thing.” 

Margaret nodded. “I know. Thank you…for at least hearing us out, your Majesty.” She gave a shaky bow before turning to leave as well. 

To be honest, Caroline felt torn. She felt sympathy for her son, as well as Duchess Margaret, but in order to unite both Belgravia and Montenaro, the wedding must proceed. She turned towards George in a last attempt to pursue him. 

“Dear, don’t you think you were a bit harsh?” She asked. “You saw how that girl was with him. She brought out the best in him! Perhaps if we gave this Stacy De Novo a chance, we-“ 

“Out of the question.” He raised a hand to stop her. “He hardly knows that girl. For all we know she could have been using him to inherit our fortune, and the last thing we need is a scandal on our hands.” George saw his wife deflate at that. Relaxing his features, he placed a hand atop hers. “Believe me, this is what’s best for both of them. The sooner they get on with it, the better it will be. He’ll eventually forget all about her and realize Margaret is a suitable partner for him. Just like how I thought the same thing about you.” He places a gentle kiss onto her knuckle, causing her to smile. 

She sighed. “Perhaps you’re right, George.” The Queen coincided. “I only hope those two will recover. I can only imagine what they must be going through…” 

With that, the following leads to where Margaret is now, standing outside the church doors with a sorrowful look upon her features. Her legs started to buckle from the heavy gown while her eyes struggled to see through the large veil on top of her head. Her breath hitched in her throat as she inevitably waited for her que to walk through those doors. 

Donatelli suddenly came up behind her, making sure to do one last look-over before giving her away. “How are you feeling, your grace?” She asked, gently approaching her. 

Margaret swallowed anxiously. “To be honest, I feel apprehensive about all of this.” She admitted. “This just…doesn’t feel right. Not anymore.” Her thoughts led her back the past few days, thinking of the wonderful moments she shared with Kevin Richards, and his daughter, Olivia. She missed the time they spent together, whether it be singing Christmas carols in Town Square, to having a snowball fight, even watching a movie together. Of course, she couldn’t forget her and Kevin’s first kiss, the way their lips melted together so perfectly, so effortlessly, as if they were meant to be together. She regretted the way she had ended things with him, to tell him to forget the kiss had even happened. She knew she couldn’t damage Stacy and Kevin’s friendship, but what they shared during those last few days were some of the greatest moments of her life, and she would never forget them.  

Margaret formed a loving smile as she held a hand over her heart. “A part of me wishes Kevin was standing at the alter and not Edward.” 

Donatelli formed a sad smile of her own. “You miss him, don’t you?” 

She nodded. “More than anything. I know it seems crazy, but what we shared, I don’t think I’ve ever experienced anything like that before with anyone. Not even with Edward.” Her gaze dropped towards the floor. “Stacy belongs with Edward, not me. I just wish his parents could understand that.” 

“I understand your grace, but there’s not much we can do on the matter. King George specifically explained the importance of this marriage.” 

Margaret fought the urge to roll her eyes. “Is it really?” She asked half-sarcastically. “If Stacy were here, I’m sure she could convince them otherwise.” The duchess could hear the music on the other side growing louder as voices began to die down instantly. She felt her breathing grow faster as she tried not to faint from on-coming pressure. 

She couldn’t do it. She knew she couldn’t. As much as she cared about duty, her freedom and happiness was something she cared the most. After experiencing what it was like a normal girl, not being tied down by duties or protocols. Being able to wear what she wanted, and overall, be herself. That was the life she wanted, and she’d give anything to live it again.

Her mind was made up. She wasn’t going to marry Edward, even if his parents disapproved of it. 

Donatelli noticed Margaret’s hesitancy. Before she could ask what’s wrong, however, the duchess turned around, making a bee-line towards her dressing room without second thought. Perplexed, she followed behind her without missing a beat. “Lady Margaret?” She asked apprehensively. “The ceremony is supposed to start soon.”

Without looking back, Margaret responded. “I know.” She kept on moving. “But I can’t do this. This isn’t what’s right for me.” ‘Telli’s eyes widened as Margaret chucked her veil to the side, soon after kicking off her heels, allowing her to walk freely. “I’m not right to rule Belgravia. Edward needs a partner who knows how to take charge, and that person is Stacy.” Donatelli tried interjecting, but Margaret beat her to it. “You saw how she was, Donatelli. She did wonders for not only Edward, but for everyone else around her. Edward has changed because of her, and admittedly, she helped me change as well.” 

Margaret finally stopped in her tracks, took a deep breath and continued. “You told me that love had nothing to do with duty, that I should follow my heart. Don’t you still believe it?” 

Donatelli took in Margaret’s pleading look, her own turning sympathetic. “You know I do, Margaret.” Her lips curved into a smile. “And you’re sure this is what you want?” 

The Duchess nodded. “More than anything. I just want to see Kevin again. Both him, and Olivia.” 

She sighed. “Well, I suppose I can’t stop you.” She thought for a moment, weighing the risks of her whole plan, then continued. “If that’s the case, then I’m coming with you.”

Margaret blinked. “…You are?” She asked. “But what about the King and Queen? You already went behind their backs once because of me. If they know you’re in on this to, they could-“

‘Telli stopped her. “Don’t worry about me. It’s you I’m more concerned about. You’re still my responsibility after all, and I promised your mother I’d always look out for you. Besides, from what you told me about Mr. Richards, he seems more than worth it.”

Margaret felt tears welding at the thought of not losing her. “You…You’d sacrifice your position…for me?”

She gave a firm nod before Margaret threw her arms around her, touched by how dedicated she was.

“Thank you.” The younger woman whispered. “For everything. I don’t think I could ever imagine my life without you.”

The older woman smiled warmly, returning the gesture with as much love. “Mine either.” 

[aellathedreamer]

My silence only means two things:

Imma rip your heart out when writing the most angsty fics i can muster

imma drop the hottest smut i can muster

[dailycaskett]

Yeah, I have to say, it's good to see you guys hitting it off again. — Castle 4.22 | “Undead Again” (2012)

[simcoesleftear]

turnposting: twitter edition vol.2

[notdampeterjohnson]

“raven boys x all for the game”

gangsey would’ve been TRAUMATISED after being taken to andrew’s parties