#prince emerick leopold rhys

[alj4890]

Making it Believable

(Prince Emerick Rhys x Juliet Nevrakis-Walker) in a Choices The Royal Romance *While We're Young AU* drabble

Thirty Kisses in Thirty Days Challenge with the prompt: kissing to pretend that you are in a relationship together.

A/N It's been a long time since I've written for this pair. I've had a lot of anonymous requests for more for these two which I've tried to keep up with occasional drabbles. When I saw this kiss prompt, I knew it was made for them and their fake dating relationship happening in the few drabbles since the series went on hiatus (which we will get back to soon). I'd also promised @lodberg another glimpse into their evolving relationship. Here they are doing something I know you've been anxious for. 😉

@lodberg ​​ @hopefulmoonobject ​​ @vickypoochoices ​​ @zaffrenotes ​​   @mynameiskaylabella ​​ @museofbooks ​​ @elbenmond ​​  @gibbles82 ​​  @krsnlove ​ @twinkleallnight @tessa-liam @hopelessromantic1352

Rating: G for fluff

Masterlist

"This is a disaster!"

Juliet stormed into the crown prince's chambers and slammed down a stack of magazines on his desk.

"Lady Juliet," Emerick quipped while leaning back in his desk chair, "always a pleasure to see you."

She glared at him. "I don't have time for your ridiculous charm." She pointed at the magazines. "Just look at what they're writing about us!"

He did as commanded, scanning each cover that had a picture of them together. Many of the headlines questioned whether or not their relationship was going to lead to marriage.

Then there were those that were comparing what they were like in previous relationships to the one they supposedly were in.

"I knew it was too good to be true." Juliet flopped across his couch. "After all our hard work to keep you free from marriage proposals and me from annoying noblemen, the people finally realize we aren't really together."

Emerick stroked his jaw while flipping through some of the articles. He studied the pictures of the two of them together that were lined up with them and their exes.

He grimaced somewhat at all the images of himself kissing various women. Juliet's past wasn't much better, but at least she maintained a relationship longer than he did.

"Say something!" She demanded when he remained in silent study.

"We have two options." Emerick declared.

She sat up on her elbows and cocked an eyebrow in question.

"One, we simply ignore this and let the people believe the actual truth about us being only friends."

"Or?" She prodded when he hesitated.

"Or we make it believable the next time we are caught by the press."

"And by believable you mean...?"

"We kiss, Jules." He stated in an even, nonchalant tone.

Juliet sputtered. "Excuse me?"

"Come now." He got to his feet. "We're both adults who have had experience. It isn't like we're teenagers who've never had a kiss in their lives."

Juliet simply stared at him with her jaw dropped.

"What?" He asked.

"I can't believe you're serious!" She shouted. "Emerick, you're...well...you're you!"

He rolled his eyes. "And?"

"And you're talking about kissing me. ME!" She shook her head. "This fake dating was supposed to save us headaches not cause more of them."

"What's worse?" He stopped her from turning away from him. "Kissing me, a man you've known since infancy, one you trust, a friend;" he stressed, "or being mauled by one of the many noblemen who want a connection with Lythikos?"

"Geez, must you put it like that?" She folded her arms.

"It's the same for me." He reminded her. "It's either kissing you for one picture or being hounded by women hoping to become a princess."

Juliet mulled it over.

Emerick knew he'd won when her head dropped back.

"Fine! I'll kiss you."

"You don't have to make it sound like a chore." He teased, winking at her. "I know some ladies who can vouch for my kisses being a rather pleasant experience."

Her eyes narrowed.

"I don't care if you have a thousand ladies vouch for your kisses." She huffed in irritation. "It's still weird."

"Why?"

"Because we've known each other forever." She snapped. "You're best friends with my brother!"

"So? You're best friends with mine." He countered. "And that whole knowing each other forever bit doesn't really matter."

"Why doesn't it?"

"Look at Nicky and Jackson." He pointed out with a cheeky grin. "They grew up together and clearly have no problem kissing each other.

Juliet closed her eyes and counted to twenty to try and control her temper.

"My brother and Nicky are in love. We are not."

Emerick shrugged as if that was neither here nor there.

Juliet's fists clenched. She might not feel like kissing him but she certainly felt like punching him in his stupid, ridiculously handsome face.

"Look," he tried to reason, "we've had some fun on our," he made quotation marks with his fingers, "dates, haven't we?"

She reluctantly nodded. As much as she wished she could deny it, Juliet really did enjoy her dates with the prince.

"This one kiss isn't going to change anything between us, Jules." He promised. "We do it, make certain the press takes all the necessary pictures, and we can then resume our normal time together fooling the masses."

Juliet ran a hand through her red hair.

"You're right." She mumbled.

"What was that?" He leaned his ear towards her. "I didn't quite catch that."

"I said you're right!" She snapped.

Emerick placed his hand over his heart.

"My lady, I am overcome." He dropped to one knee before her and pressed her hand to his lips. "To hear such a sweet declaration from you, it is all I have ever hoped for."

Despite wanting to remain irritated with him, Juliet began to laugh at his overly dramatic teasing.

Emerick beamed at her for being such a good sport throughout these months of subterfuge.

"So when are we doing this?" She asked.

"Whenever you wish." He sat back down behind his desk to check his schedule. "We have a ball at Ramsford in two weeks. There's the dinner with the Chamber of Commerce next Friday. Then--"

"I think we should get it over with as soon as possible." She decided.

Emerick looked up at her in surprise. Was the notion of kissing him that disgusting to her?

Juliet's cheeks heated with a touch of color. "If we put it off, I'm going to be more nervous about it."

Emerick didn't think he could be any more shocked than he was hearing her say something like that. Juliet was a young woman who never got nervous. She had enough of the Nevrakis confidence in her mixed with the Walker's not caring what anyone else thought persona that was simply Jules.

She was typically unflappable in any situation. Her quick, dry wit intermingled with her fiery temper to keep others from daring to say anything cutting to her. She was respected and feared amongst many members of the Royal Court.

He'd come to depend on that these last few months. Though she could drive him crazy at times, he appreciated those personality quirks of hers along with her logical, no nonsense way of thinking. She had surprisingly become a person whose advice he readily sought.

He saw the type of noble she was becoming. Her loyalty and steadfast nature came from both her parents and he couldn't be more grateful to have it for himself.

Of all his friends though, he was surprised how much he had come to enjoy every moment with her. Even their arguments left him feeling energized. There was something about her that he...

Emerick stopped that train of thought.

He did wonder why a simple kiss had the power to make her nervous.

Juliet hated admitting to such a weakness in front of him. She knew it sounded ridiculous. Goodness knows, she'd never been one to try and tame her passionate nature. Emerick had even been one of her friends who'd caught her in more than one embrace with different men over the years.

But the thought of kissing him...

She didn't know what to think about the feelings that particular notion stirred within her. No man frustrated her nor made her laugh quite like Emerick did. He never stepped back from going toe to toe with her, nor was he cowed like many of the other nobles when she was angry.

He was infuriating with how charming he could be. His flirtatious nature had been with him since birth. It was effortless on his part and she realized through her time spent one on one with him that it was typically used to put one at ease.

Though many assumed he was carefree, she'd come to see the more serious side to his personality. She knew how much he valued his family and their close knit group of friends, but she was also catching glimpses into the type of king he would one day become.

She admired him and was usually proud of the decisions and arguments he made in terms of their country. She would have no problem respecting him as her king once Uncle Liam stepped down from the throne.

She did worry though over the thought of some woman coming along and trapping Emerick in a marriage. Like his father, the prince possessed a tender heart. He'd never stepped back when someone was in need. Once he cared about someone or an issue, he threw himself into it with everything he had.

He needed to be protected. She now understood why her father had remained by Liam's side until he met Riley. She realized that it was up to her to be that for Emerick. She knew her brother, Jackson, felt the same way about the prince but he was a little caught up with Lady Nicky Beaumont to give all his free time to this endeavor.

Which might explain why she didn't put up much of a fight when Emerick suggested they do this fake dating for the social season.

At least that's what it was in the beginning...

Juliet put a stop to her wayward thoughts. She was not going to join the ranks of hundreds of women enamored with the crown prince.

But this kiss...what if she...if he...

She got to her feet.

"Let's go out tonight or tomorrow."

Emerick slowly nodded. "If that's what you wish."

"It is." She lowered her eyes. "Something casual. I don't think we need to kiss at some court event."

Emerick's brow furrowed as he observed her.

She really is nervous.

"How about tomorrow afternoon?" He offered.

"Sounds good." She stumbled to his door. "I'll see you for lunch then."

Before he could say another word, she hurried out of his room.

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

The spring day had turned chilly and damp. Emerick and Juliet thought that was the perfect setting to make the kiss more believable. It wouldn't look staged now, especially since they weren't supposed to be posing for the press at an event.

The two walked through the capital, hand in hand, as they made their way to an outdoor cafe they were known to frequent. Other than the palace guards following at a respectable distance, the two basically had the sidewalk to themselves.

Emerick decided during a night of tossing and turning in bed, that it would be best to catch Juliet off guard with the kiss. He worried that if he forewarned her about when it would happen, she would be even more nervous and the kiss wouldn't appear authentic.

She was already clutching his hand and arm. He didn't know if the occasional trembles he felt were from the cold breeze or from her nerves.

Once the two were seated at a patio table and had their orders placed, he reached over and took her hand once more.

He could hear the clicks of cameras from some not so well hidden paparazzi.

Juliet smiled at him, squeezing his hand.

He held her gaze as he lifted their clasped hands to his lips.

Emerick could feel her tense at the touch she'd felt many times throughout the years.

"Jules." He said softly.

She lowered her eyes to his mouth.

He leaned forward and slipped his hand into her hair, tugging her forward as he pressed a tender kiss to her lips.

He was doing fine maintaining what was going to be a simple kiss until she reached up and cupped his cheek.

Her lips parted under his allowing him to deepen the kiss. He could taste the beginning of her fiery nature as her tongue caressed his.

Her husky moan took him by surprise as she pulled him closer to her.

They barely pulled apart to catch their breaths, before he dipped back down, sucking her bottom lip.

Her breath hitched, a flash of her green eyes met his blue before she wrapped her arms around his shoulders. Her mouth slanted over his, drawing him back into another passionate kiss.

Emerick nearly yanked her into his lap. If not for their waiter, clearing his throat, their kiss would most likely still be going. And where it would have led, startled them both.

"Emerick?" She whispered. "Stop staring at me like that."

Juliet knew she was looking at him just like he was her, as if seeing each other for the first time.

He lowered his eyes and quickly picked up his glass of water. He hoped as he gulped it down that it would cool the desire he felt for her in that kiss.

Emerick made the mistake of glancing at her again. He saw the slight redness around her mouth where his stubble had rubbed against her porcelain skin. The sight brought on another flash of heat over his body.

Juliet's eyes drifted back to his mouth as she sipped her own ice water. She was tempted to put the glass to her cheeks as she thought of how it felt being kissed by him. It made her want to do it again.

No wonder he said he had numerous ladies who could vouch for his kisses, she thought to herself.

"Well," Emerick tried to joke to break the tension, "I think we managed to make our relationship believable."

Her lips curved a touch proudly.

"Yeah, I think we did."

Their eyes met while smiles formed on their faces.

"Was it as dreadful as you thought it would be?" He whispered.

Emerick expected her to tease him about being a bad kisser.

Juliet instead lowered her eyes to his mouth once more.

"On the contrary," she lifted her water glass as if she was about to offer a toast, "I didn't find it dreadful at all."

Emerick tapped his glass against hers.

With a wink, he said.

"Neither did I."

[krsnlove]

Christmas Gifts

A/N: We’re still a day or so away from a new year so no. I am not late with a Christmas fic *avoids eye contact*...set in the While We’re Young world with the bff @alj4890​

Pairing: Liam x Riley [ A L W A Y S ]

Tagging: @alj4890​ @vickypoochoices​ @thecordoniandiaries​ @kingliam2019​ @lodberg​ @texaskitten30​ @cora-nova​ @kingliamisbae​

Riley discreetly cracks open the bedroom door that held the product of the love she and Liam share. The night-light emitting a soft glow inside allows her to make out the numbers on the nearby clock. It was a quarter until 9PM and Riley can still hear their 3 year-old son Emerick conducting a press conference in bed. 

“Yes! Christmas will be everyday!,” his excited whisper is heard throughout the room. “Next question?”

Riley silently chuckles to herself, not wanting to alert him of the unknown audience nearby. She is now used to catching one of his press conferences in bed at least twice a week. When she asked him one day why he did that, Emerick simply answered, “I saw Daddy doing it on TV today.”

The joy she felt in that moment at seeing how much their son wanted to be like Liam caused her heart to soar. And now, Riley thought…

“Is he asleep?,” Liam’s soft hands come from behind her waist interrupting her thoughts. She feels the light stubble of his cheek as he presses a kiss to her neck.

“Not yet,” she whispers. “The press conference sounds like it’s almost over though.” Liam’s lips curve into a smile, listening to Emerick’s voice begin to slur signaling his falling asleep.

It isn’t long before Riley closes Emerick’s bedroom door and looks at Liam excitedly.

“Is it time?,” her whispered voice went two octaves higher as she silently clapped her hands.

Liam nodded in silent consent with a wide grin.

“It is, my love.”

They walked, hand in hand, away from Emerick’s bedroom for several feet until reaching the other end of the palace wing that held their own bedroom quarters.

“After you,” Liam said as he opens the door.

Riley eagerly makes her way to the vanity set before producing a small box from one of the drawers.

“Merry Christmas Liam,” she said as she walks toward him. Riley feels her eyes beginning to sting with tears.

Please not now, she silently scolds herself.

Liam exchanges the long rectangular box in his own hands for the one in Riley’s when he places a kiss on her lips.

“Merry Christmas, my Queen.”

Riley can’t help the smile that comes to her as she studies the man standing before her.  

Her kind, passionate, selfless, vanilla-loving, humble, sexy, father of her children, and inexplicably good-looking husband.

“Is everything okay?,” Liam asks, studying the dazed look on her face.

“With you, Liam, I’ll always be okay.”

“Hey, I thought I was the one with the cheesy lines,” he said with a small laugh.

“You inspire me my King,” Riley quipped with a smile.

“Can we open our gift already?!”

“It is your world, my love. I’m just lucky enough to live in it,” Liam replies with a small bow.

“If we weren’t already sleeping together…,” Riley winks at him as she carefully removes the lid from the rectangular box.

“...Liam…”, she tries but fails to form a sentence.

“Do you like it?,” he nervously asks. She inspects the gold chain bracelet and notices the two heart shaped charms attached.

“I had them inscribed,” Liam said quietly.

Riley turns over one heart charm with a large L in cursive.

Always & Forever

She can feel the tears in her eyes threaten to spill as her fingers run over their wedding date beneath those words.

“Emerick wanted to make his own,” Liam said with a chuckle. “It turns out that 3 year-olds surprisingly can’t keep sentences to four words or less when it comes to inscribing jewelry.”

Riley looks up at him with a smile then back to the second heart shaped charm.

A large E in cursive with Emerick’s birth date is the first thing she notices. Just enough for a single tear to escape each of her eyes.

Mom. Dad. Me.

“He had help,” Liam offered when Riley read the words on the charm. She lets out a laugh that sounds like a cry as tears of joy come down her cheeks.

“Liam…,” she eagerly pulls him into a hug.

“Do you like it?,” he asks again.

“I love it,” she assures him with a kiss on his lips. “Please,” she motions for him to place the bracelet on her wrist. Liam gently lifts the gold chain from the box and secures the clasp before placing a kiss inside her wrist.

Riley surveys the new jewelry on her wrist as a new wave of tears pool within her eyes as she the large L and E shine brightly underneath the light. “So…,” Liam clears his throat before continuing, “there is room on that bracelet for you know...the future.”

Riley raises her eyebrow but stays quiet, allowing him to finish.

“The future. Trips. Vacations. Pets. Even maybe…,” Liam’s eyes move away from her gaze, “...children.”

She can’t help the smile that comes to her lips with excitement building up inside her.

“When you’re ready of course Riley,” Liam rushes to assure her. “I know we discussed it early in our marriage about raising a family. With Emerick turning 4 soon I thought we can start trying again. It doesn’t have to be soon but I’m just--.”

“Liam I love you,” Riley interrupts him by placing a finger on his lips.

“...But…,” Riley’s hesitancy causes Liam to prepare himself for news that she wasn’t prepared for another crazy nine months. After all, he attempts to assure himself, it is only fair they both be on the same page.

“I think you should open your gift first,” she urges him.

Liam narrows his eyes in suspicion at her odd request.

With the lid removed, Liam blinks a few times ensuring he wasn’t seeing things.

“Love…,” he whispers. Liam picks up the black and white sonogram picture and glances at Riley.

“We can’t start trying for another baby,” Riley said with tears running down her cheek.

“We’re already pregnant, my King.”

[alj4890]

Love Drabble

Quid Pro Quo Pars Duo

(Jackson Nevrakis-Walker x Nichole "Nicky" Beaumont) in a look at what happened at Collette's wedding.

A/N 🤣 well I'm easily swayed. When I saw @twinkleallnight 's comment that she would love to see what these two were doing at the wedding while Emerick and Juliet were joining up to avoid suitors, I wondered the same thing and even thought about maybe writing it while I was writing the previous drabble. 😂 And for @hopelessromantic1352 , I've added more Thomas for you. So once again, let's see if we can find a way to get these two back on the road to being a couple again.

@lodberg ​​ @hopefulmoonobject ​ ​​@hopelessromantic1352  @krsnlove ​ @twinkleallnight @tessa-liam @sirbeepsalot @thehonorarybeaumont

Masterlist

Paris, France...

"Aren't you riding with us?" Olivia asked while following Juliet into the waiting car.

Jackson shook his head. "I'll meet you there."

She quirked an eyebrow at Drake.

He knew that look meant that he should press for more information.

"If you've found a way to miss this wedding," Drake instead said,'"then take me with you."

Olivia rolled her eyes in a huff.

Juliet leaned over her to yell out.

"If anyone shouldn't have to go to this ridiculous wedding, it's ME!" Her green eyes focused on her brother. "Please tell me you found a way out of this!"

"I haven't." Jackson replied with a grimace. He knew better than anyone how much his sister didn't want to be a part of this event. "Sorry, Jules. You know I would have told you if I had."

She slumped back into the carseat.

Olivia motioned for Drake to get in. "We'll see you there."

Drake patted his son's shoulder as he got in.

"Don't be late!" Juliet yelled out once more.

Jackson held a hand up in farewell as the car drove off.

Slipping his hands in his pockets, he headed towards the Beaumont's vila.

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

"Hey Jax!" Izzy greeted, rushing down the steps.

"Bye Jax!" Emily added, following at her heels.

With giggles and chatter, they quickly got into a waiting car and got on their way to the church.

Jackson released a relieved sigh. He wasn't quite up to anyone questioning why he was coming over to the Beaumont's.

His trip to Los Angeles had gone better than he hoped. He and Nicky were able to be around one another without any pressure or arguing. As if by unspoken agreement, they steered clear of any talk about their infamous breakup and the reasons behind Nicky leaving him.

He wondered now if he was pushing his luck. They had been around none of the usual crowd those few days in Los Angeles. Now they would be attending an event that held the very people, the very pressures, their relationship used to be under.

Would it cause all the bitter feelings of their ending, memories of happier times, and reminders why they weren't in fact engaged by now or at the very least, happily in love to rise to the forefront of their minds?

No use worrying over it now, Jackson thought to himself.

He knocked on the door, hoping he wasn't about to do something that would end up hurting them both.

His eyes widened somewhat at the sight of Thomas Hunt opening the door.

"Jackson." The famous director eyed him before his frown eased. "I see you've been dragged into this wedding nonsense like everyone else."

"Yes, sir." Jax chuckled while stepping inside. "How'd you get stuck with going?"

Thomas softly smiled. "It is hard, as I'm sure you know, to say no to a lady's pleading." His lips eased even more. "Especially when she reminds you of all the times she came along as your plus one in the past."

"I heard that." Amanda playfully grumbled as she came down the stairs.

Jax braced himself. Fear of anger or coldness from her gripped him. He knew he shouldn't feel that way, especially since it was Nicky who had dumped him, but he worried about seeing her after all this time.

Amanda had been one of his favorite "aunts" growing up. Once he realized he was in love with Nicky, he realized why he adored Amanda as much as he did. She and Nicky shared so many traits, both physically and personality wise, he couldn't help but love her too.

Plus, he'd always assumed that she would one day be his mother-in-law.

His worry disappeared the moment she flashed her warm, delighted smile his way.

"Jax!" She walked up to kiss his cheek. Her eyes flitted over his face. "I swear you look just like Drake did at your age."

He chuckled, returning her hug. "That's what everyone says."

"And here I was hoping to be the first to think that." She winked at him. "Nicky should be down soon."

"Soon soon, or soon?" He teased.

She laughed. "Soon soon, I think."

She then turned her attention on Thomas. "Don't you look handsome?"

The gruff director snorted while tugging at his bowtie. "Of the two of us, I think you deserve the compliment." His eyes dropped down her blue lace dress. "Might want to change in case you upstage the bride."

She laughed, shaking her head. "I know that's not true and a rather clever ploy on your part to make us late for the wedding."

"Nonsense." Thomas replied. "I have no desire to be late." His lips eased into another smile. "I'm trying to get us out of going completely." He offered his arm to her. "Truthfully though, you do look quite lovely."

"That's what I told her." Nicky called out.

Jackson felt his heart stop the moment he saw her coming downstairs. The silk gown Nicky wore looked as if it had been designed with her in mind.

He'd always loved waiting on her at the bottom of a staircase. It gave him more time to admire her figure while feeling a great sense of pride that she'd chosen him as the man to escort her wherever they were going. His eyes were already falling into their old habit of traveling down her curves then catching glimpses of a long leg peeping out of a high slit.

He met her eyes when she paused on the next to the last step. How many times did he take it for granted that she used to do that so they would be the same height for a kiss.

She beamed at him. "You shaved!"

He rubbed his jaw. "This is a court event. One must be properly sheered for everyone to admire."

"As I recall, you weren't too concerned with that edict and neither were Uncle Liam and Aunt Riley." She teased.

He found himself smiling at her, simply enjoying that the same feeling he had seeing her again in Los Angeles had only grown stronger these last couple of months.

So far, it wasn't a fluke.

"We should go." Amanda whispered to Thomas.

She slipped her arm within the bend of his, tugging him quietly away from what she hoped was the beginning of their reconciliation.

Nicky looked up at their retreating forms.

"We'll meet you there!" She called out.

"See you soon." Amanda responded.

Once the door shut, Nicky let out a sigh.

"You okay?" Jackson asked.

"I am." She smiled at him. "It's been a busy day getting everyone dressed and all." She looked once more towards the empty entryway. "Emily and Izzy's laughter woke me up. Then Mom and Uncle Thomas were out on the terrace having breakfast and simply enjoying themselves." She sighed happily again. "It has been a perfect day."

Jackson felt that old need to take her in his arms and simply hold her. He knew from what she'd shared when he last saw her how much she needed her mother and sister to be back to how they once were. Hearing her say it was perfect simply in seeing them happy made him want to remind her how she'd made so many of his own days perfect by simply being there.

Right now, this day felt absolutely perfect.

She refocused on him. "You look quite dashing for this wedding." Her dimpled grin grew. "Is this in revenge for Colette or are you hoping to catch someone's eye."

He slipped his hands in his pockets and leaned against the banister. His signature smirk appeared on his handsome face as he met her hazel gaze.

"I think I already caught someone's eye." He winked at her making her laugh. "With how you look, I wouldn't mind having you on my arm for the rest of the night."

She playfully swatted him with her clutch once she took his arm. "Careful, or I'll tell Colette you're planning on objecting during the ceremony."

"Talk like that makes me think you have some Nevrakis blood in your veins." He shuddered, making her laugh again. "That's quite a threat."

She squeezed his arm close for a moment. "Don't worry. I kept you out of her clutches for years." She looked up at him, feeling a thrill over the smile he gave her. "One more night won't kill me."

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

"Nicky!" Alec rushed down the steps of the church to sweep her into a big hug.

She hugged him tight before stepping back to admire his gray tux. "Let me see you." She motioned for him to turn around. "Just as I thought." She tapped her chin, eyes swimming with mirth. "Still devastatingly handsome."

"Don't even think about trying to distract me with compliments." Alec warned. "You were supposed to call me when you got to Paris."

"I know, I'm sorry. I was exhausted by the time we landed yesterday." She explained. "I slept sixteen hours."

"Oh." Alec stopped wagging his finger at her. "Then I suppose I can let you off this one time." He squeezed her into another hug. "But only if you tell me you're coming back to Cordonia for good soon."

Her smile dimmed some while glancing over at Jackson talking to some other nobles. "I think we will. It's been hard to bring it up to Mom and Emily. Everywhere we go, we'll end up thinking about Dad and I'm worried they'll become depressed again." She swallowed, wishing things had gone differently. "I know I'll hurt seeing our home and all the old places we used to go, all while knowing he won't be there with us. I don't know if I can take going through it again."

Alec wrapped his arm around her shoulders, squeezing her close like he always did whenever she was sad. He rested his head against hers for a moment, trying to find a way for his best friend and family he loved to be able to come home for good.

"Plus, I'm sure it would be a bother to Jax if I did return." She admitted. "I can just picture the press hounding him everywhere he went into how it felt for the lady who dumped him to return."

She had to fight back tears in thinking how he might end up hating her in the end. She couldn't risk losing these steps forward with him. She hoped that one day, they'd be standing on a church's steps like this because it was their wedding and that was why one of her best friends was hugging her.

"I guess this means I have to come see you then in California." Alec mumbled.

He noticed how down she looked and gently shook her.

"I should be getting all over you for what you did."

Her head jerked up, lips parted in shock.

He continued in a serious tone to tease her. "You've made me the one to keep Emerick and Jax in line." He lowered his head to hers. "You know that was supposed to be your job. I'm merely the getaway driver."

She burst into laughter.

Jackson smiled over at the two when he heard the sound then excused himself from the group he was talking to.

"What's so funny?" He asked, attempting to be causal as he pulled Nicky back beside him.

She automatically slipped her arm within the bend of his. Jackson placed his free hand over hers, smiling down at her.

Alec noticed the whole interaction and couldn't help but hope this was only a glimpse of the beginning of them finally being where they were supposed to be. He couldn't think of two people more perfect for one another than these two other than his own parents.

"I was reminding Nicky of our jobs." Alec replied with a wink at her.

"Jobs?" Jax repeated.

Nicky giggled some more. "Alec has had to deal with you and Emerick all on his own."

"I'd forgotten how much she helps when you two go off on adventures." Alec reminded him. "I think I've aged ten years since she left me alone with you two."

"Come on." Jax argued. "I'm nowhere near as much trouble as Emerick."

Nicky and Alec shared an amused look.

"I'm not!" He told them.

Nicky gently patted his hand. "Of course you aren't."

"Alec!" One of the groomsmen motioned for him to hurry back into the church.

"That's my cue." His earlier joy seeing his friends disappeared.

"We better go find our seats." Jax added.

"We'll look for you at the reception." Nicky promised as Jackson pulled her behind him.

"Can't wait." Alec's grin returned.

He couldn't wait to see them back as a couple.

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

The two had originally planned to sit near either his parents or hers. Since they were running behind, they ended up slipping into the end of a pew in the middle of the sanctuary.

There was little space left. Nicky was squeezed up tight against Jackson's side to avoid crowding the other man next to her.

"Sorry." She whispered.

"No problem." He mumbled back.

Every time she turned to look about at the decorations and wedding party coming down the aisle, he would catch whiffs of her perfume. She seemed to not notice him shifting in his seat to keep her completely against his side.

He draped his arm along the back of the pew, fingers gently brushing her bare shoulders. He wished her hair was down so he could tease her by pulling at a lock during the drawn out ceremony.

He then noticed the tears in her eyes.

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

Nicky was doing fine, even cheering in her mind each time Jackson moved to keep her close. When he draped his arm behind her, her nerves nearly sang feeling him touch her skin once more.

But then the couple began their vows to one another.

Her giddiness dissipated at the thought that this was all she wanted...all she'd ever wanted.

Her dream, even as a little girl, was to be married to Jax. To have to sit here and watch a couple who weren't even in love go through the very ceremony she longed for hurt worse than she expected.

It felt like her chance for happiness really was dead. Jackson probably did just want her as his date for revenge. Either that or use her as a shield against the other ladies who eyed him with lust for his body and/or his title.

She'd never have a wedding, at least not with him.

She should be grateful that he at least treated her as a beloved friend now instead of...

Her breath hitched the moment she felt his lips against her temple. His arm curved around her shoulders while he offered her his handkerchief.

She looked up at him.

His brow was furrowed in that familiar way whenever he saw her crying. She knew he couldn't stand to see her upset. He'd once told her he never felt as helpless as he did the moment he saw a tear fall down her cheek.

Could it be he still felt that way over her? That he could still love her after everything that happened between them? The fights and harsh words...had they left no lasting, irreparable damage upon their hearts?

He leaned down toward her face and pressed his forehead against hers. His nose brushed hers briefly, lips so close to her own.

"Don't cry." He pleaded in a whisper.

She sniffed and raised his handkerchief to dab under her eyes. The moment she began to pull away from him, he locked his arm in place around her.

She couldn't help but hope that this meant he would want to marry her some day.

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

The two remained by the other's side for the whole reception. They laughed during observations of their siblings and friends. They danced only with each other, much to Collette's irritation. And shared a number of glasses of champagne off in secluded corners.

When it came time for the bouquet toss, Colette specifically called Nicky's name and those of Juliet, Emily, and Izzy to come to the front.

"I know you each need all the help you can get to find a husband."

She'd attempted to make her insult sound like a playful taunt, yet everyone who knew her caught the true meaning.

Juliet purposely folded her arms, determined to burn the bouquet if it even came close to her.

Emily rolled her eyes over the situation, firmly decided to relax and let other ladies from the court fight over it. She knew her sister and friends would all have much better spouses than what Colette ended up with.

Izzy was fuming with a smile on her face, just like her mother, Hana, taught her. She was having all kinds of revenge scenarios running in her mind for Colette to even think of insulting her friends. She would pick one and find a way to get back at the young lady for daring to cross those she adored.

Nicky, though wanting to slap Colette over so many things she'd done to her through the years, managed to remain calm and collected.

Before she could blink, the bouquet was coming directly towards her.

Without much thought, Nicky caught the bouquet of white lilies and roses.

Colette burst into raucous laughter.

"Lady Nicky!" She doubled over, making certain every eye was on her. "Let's hope you can catch a husband as easily as you did the bouquet."

Chuckles and murmurs came from all over the banquet hall.

Those closest to Nicky were decidedly not laughing. Their stoney, bored expressions let the entire room know their feelings.

Thomas had to grip Amanda's hand under the table to keep her from getting up and saving her daughter from Colette. Her hazel eyes had darkened with her anger.

Drake kept a grip on Olivia's shoulder keeping her still. Rashad eased back when he noticed Hana trembling with rage. Riley ignored Liam's whisper to calm down, deciding to let those close to their table know how gauche the Queen of Cordonia found Collette's behavior.

Alec, Emerick, and Ellis all had fists clenched ready to jump in if Nicky needed them.

Emily had tears in her eyes, wishing that her sister wasn't being humiliated in such a way. She was ready to scream to everyone that laughed how wonderful and lucky some man would be to win Nicky's heart. She wished Scott Caulfield was here, showing the world that Hollywood's newest sex symbol was completely enamored with Nicky.

Izzy had already decided on which forms of vengeance she'd enact on Colette. Now she could add some more for doing this to their Nicky.

Juliet already had her lips parted, ready to launch into a verbal onslaught these pampered nobles never knew was possible.

But then...

Jackson stepped up and took Nicky's hand. In front of all of them; he lifted it to his lips for a lingering kiss and managed to have that shy hopeful smile on his face.

"I hope I know the lucky man." He said loud enough for everyone to hear.

Mutterings and whispers exploded over the hint that he would be the one she chose to marry.

Nicky blinked at him, unsure what to say.

He tucked her hand in the bend of his arm and led her out of the hall.

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

"Give me a minute." Nicky pleaded once they went down a part of the mansion closed off for the party.

Before Jackson could react, she dashed into a nearby room and shut the door.

She fumbled in the dark for a lamp then leaned against a desk. Her breaths came in and out in broken gasps as she relived the humiliating moment over and over.

I shouldn't have come, she thought. To face everyone again after so little time and with Jax! I want to go home. I don't want to be here or with anyone ever again. Why did I think--

Jackson slipped inside and shut the door.

Nicky whirled around in surprise, bracing herself against a desk. In the shadowed light, Jackson's face looked harsher than usual. His dark eyes held her immobile as his hands clenched into fists.

She didn't know what to do anymore as she stared at him. All her hopes and dreams seemed so foolish now. It was pointless. All she was trying to do was completely pointless.

With a curse over seeing her upset once more, Jax crossed the room and yanked her in his arms. His lips captured any words she was about to say in a deep, desperate kiss.

Nicky hung limp for two heartbeats before she wrapped her arms around his neck. She eagerly responded to every touch of his lips and tongue against hers. She felt like she was coming back into the warm light after months of cold, bitter darkness.

The feel of Jackson holding her like he once did didn't feel old or dull. Her body reacted as if they had never kissed or touched before this very moment. The butterflies and heart racing was just as strong or if not stronger than before.

His hands splayed on her bare back, attempting to press her even closer.

He felt his senses come alive for the first time in months with the passion and tenderness of her response.

He'd wondered if they ever got around to kissing again if it would be comfortable and nothing new. He knew now that it was an all new excitement thrumming through his veins over being reunited with her once more.

Their breaths echoed in the room when they ended the kiss. They held tight to the other while searching for signs of regret or repulsion.

They knew they should probably talk about whether or not this was a moment of weakness, too much champagne, or simply because they couldn't imagine being with anyone else.

All they wanted to do was wallow in the wonder of their kiss and see if it was as good as if felt. They both leaned in for another.

And another...

And another...

And another...

[alj4890]

Love drabble

(Drake x Olivia) and a little bit of (Emerick x Juliet) in a Choices The Royal Romance/While We're Young drabble

For @lodberg for wanting more of Juliet and Emerick and @twinkleallnight for wanting to see how the parents react to them spending so much time together 😉

@lodberg ​​ @hopefulmoonobject ​ ​​  @krsnlove ​ @twinkleallnight @tessa-liam @sirbeepsalot @thehonorarybeaumont

Masterlist

Entwined

Nothing was more beautiful than Valtoria on the night of The Lantern Festival. With the many lakes and ponds that dotted the duchy, the effect was simply stunning once all the lanterns were released.

Ever since Liam made Riley the duchess of Valtoria, the couple along with their children always made sure to be there each year to celebrate with the people. Their friends would join them for a week of relaxing and hiking through the mountains.

Now that the majority of their children were grown, the older adults were able to step back and allow them to handle being in the spotlight.

The crown prince, Emerick, had taken over giving the welcoming speech the last few years. He was typically surrounded by his brother, Ellis, and their closest friends.

On this particular evening though, he only had one person by his side, which unfortunately meant that the rumors were getting out of control.

"We should have made everyone else get up here with us." Juliet whispered.

"After Ellis spilt punch on his shirt and Emily tore her dress, we ran out of time." He whispered back. "I have no idea where Nicky or Jackson are. Have you seen Alec and Izzy?"

"I lost Izzy earlier in the crowd." Juliet murmured. "I saw Alec on the phone a little while ago. He mouthed, business, and disappeared inside."

"I apologize for making you stand up here with me." He mumbled near her ear.

She looked up into his handsome face with her signature smirk.

"You owe me big time for this."

He chuckled, carefully tucking a windblown curl behind her ear. The back of his fingers lingered a moment upon her cheek.

"I intend to pay handsomely for all you have sacrificed this season for me."

"You better." She teased. "Because I'm merely counting the days until I can collect all of that plus interest."

He coughed on his laughter as more cameras were raised in anticipation.

"Smile." Emerick slipped his arm around her waist when reporters began to snap pictures of the two of them. "We're trapped."

After giving a welcome to all who had joined them, along with the significance of the festival, he had a servant bring over two lanterns.

Juliet's eyes widened for a second when she noticed that the two were tied together with a red ribbon.

Her slight stiffening wasn't lost on the prince by her side.

Giving the photographers a picture that many were hoping to capture, Emerick turned toward her with a wicked smile. He leaned down close once more to whisper in her ear, lips barely brushing the delicate skin turning pink.

"Like us, these lanterns will be trapped together for eternity." He whispered.

Juliet snorted, dropping her head so that no one could see how much she wanted to laugh. Having him think of a way to send the joke they tossed back and forth how this farce was going to end up keeping them trapped together was making tears come to her eyes. His squeezing of her waist only made the struggle worse.

"Now, Lady Juliet and I will make our wishes and send these two to join their brethren." Emerick told the crowd.

"Ready?" He asked her.

"Hold on." She closed her eyes tight, lips moving silently as she made her wish.

"Ready." She opened her eyes to see an amused yet very fond expression on Emerick's face.

"One, two, three."

They both let the lanterns go and watched as the two circled around each other until the ribbon curled keeping them entwined together.

The supposed couple then had their well practiced smiles in place as the questions began.

Off to the side, Drake stood observing the spectacle his daughter always caused when near Liam's son.

His frown firming drew his wife's attention.

"What's eating at you, Walker?" Olivia asked.

Drake cast a frustrated glance at her before focusing once more on the pair.

"What do you think about them?" He asked.

"Who?"

"Our daughter and Emerick." He grumbled.

"What are you talking about?"

"Their relationship."

Olivia rolled her eyes. "Don't tell me you believe their little act."

"I know Jules says it's an act." He snapped. "But it seems to me that he is using her."

Olivia snorted. "Using Jules? Do you honestly think anyone can use a Nevrakis?"

She tilted her head as she studied her husband's growing irritation.

"Granted she does have your genes , but I like to think the Nevrakis ones already defeated any weakness the Walker's might have had."

"Liv." Drake groaned.

"You know our girl can take care of herself." Olivia pointed out, slipping an arm around his waist.

"I know Jules can." He wrapped his around her, pulling her closer. "It's Emerick I'm not so sure about."

"You're worried about Liam's son?" Olivia began to laugh.

"If it was Ellis, I wouldn't be as concerned. He's more like Liam. But Emerick..."

His eyes narrowed when he noticed the prince had yet to remove his arm from around Juliet.

"Has a lot of Leo in him."

Olivia followed his glare. What she noticed and thought was more telling than Emerick's actions with their daughter, was that Juliet was not making a move to escape him.

In fact, it was looking more and more that Juliet enjoyed spending events by Emerick's side.

"I think he has more of Liam and Riley than Leo." She argued.

"That smirk is all Leo." He pointed out.

"Perhaps." Olivia conceded, much to her husband's shock.

"And you're fine with him being with our daughter?"

"Once again, I'm not worried, because she is our daughter." Olivia silenced him with her elbow to his ribs when he opened his mouth again to argue. "She has both of us in her. Neither of us is willing nor has the patience to put up with idiots or people who take advantage of others."

Drake ran a hand through his hair, releasing a long deep breath. He couldn't think of a way to argue that fact.

"You know I'm right." Olivia placed a kiss on his cheek. "I'm always right."

She left him to continue his study of the two.

Just as he was about to relax in his wife's reassurance that all was fine, Emerick took Juliet's hand. With a whisper that had her smiling, he whisked her off through the crowd towards some shadowed area of Valtoria.

Drake softly cursed before slouching off in search of Olivia.

"He's Leo reborn." He grumbled. "This can only end in disaster."

[alj4890]

Can we maybe have more fics with Juliet and emmerick? I love this series and I think actually putting these two as a couple would be awesome. They are so made for each other!!!

You had the same thought @krsnlove and I did about those two 😉 Our series is on hiatus currently due to moving and other life changing events, but I will see what I can do drabble wise for you right now. *this helped me forget about the nightmare that is my moving to a new city for a little while, so thank you Nonny!*

While We're Young Masterlist

@lodberg ​​ @hopefulmoonobject ​​ @vickypoochoices ​​ @zaffrenotes ​​  @umccall71 ​​ @littleblossom357 @mynameiskaylabella ​​ @museofbooks ​​ @elbenmond ​​ @annekebbphotography​​  @gibbles82 ​​  @krsnlove ​ @twinkleallnight

Quid Pro Quo

"Are you ready?" Olivia asked.

Juliet turned toward her mother. "Would you be ready in something like this?"

Olivia couldn't help but smile over her daughter sharing many of her opinions. She knew Juliet hadn't wanted to be another bridesmaid, especially to someone that wasn't a part of her inner circle.

"Look at me." Juliet twirled around. "I look like a pink nightmare."

"No you don't." Drake stepped outside. "I think you look nice."

Juliet huffed. "Dad, redheads aren't supposed to wear pink. Why did Colette insist I wear this?"

Olivia suspected that the reason Kiara and her daughter insisted upon the dress was in revenge for she herself ending up with Drake. Kiara had settled for a political marriage shortly after he proposed to Olivia. Now her daughter, Colette, was one of the first ladies of the social season to marry. This was something Kiara enjoyed pointing out to her, Hana, and Amanda: all popular duchesses with single daughters.

"The car's here." Her brother Jackson announced.

"It won't last long." Olivia linked arms with her daughter as they walked out of their Paris villa. "Then we can burn that dress and anything else you'd like." Her green eyes narrowed. "We'll use that gaudy invitation to light it."

Juliet slipped her arm around Olivia's waist, squeezing her in a grateful hug. If anyone understood her frustrations, it was her mother.

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

"Smile." Ellis nudged his brother.

Emerick flashed the charming smile he'd inherited from his father and uncle.

"Now let's see how long you can keep it there." Riley teased.

He rolled his eyes. "If my attendance wasn't a royal decree," he glanced at his father when he heard a snort of amusement, "then I would be somewhere far away from here doing literally anything else."

"Emerick!" Riley whispered. "Lower your voice."

"Yes, mam." He whispered with an unrepentant grin. "You know my feelings for the soon to be wedded couple. Both are a pain in the--"

Liam cleared his throat with a slight narrowing of his eyes.

"Sorry." Emerick grumbled. "But you know it's true."

"You can say that again." Ellis softly groaned.

"Lady Colette and Sir Melvin the IV have a," Liam tried to think of the least offensive description, "unique way of interacting with other members of the court."

Emerick couldn't help the laugh that slipped out. "Father, you truly are the most gentlemanly man I know."

"I try." Liam put his arm around his son's shoulders for an affectionate squeeze. "Once we get through this ceremony--"

"And the reception." Riley added.

"Then you are free from all royal duties for the rest of our stay."

"Me too?" Ellis eagerly asked.

Liam shook his head. "You have to accompany me to see your old tutor tomorrow, then you're free."

Emerick did a quick calculation of how much longer he had to pretend to be happy as part of the guests witnessing the union of two of the most annoying people on the planet.

He supposed even he could endure the rest of the evening.

That was until he noticed some attention he was drawing from many of the ladies here.

"I'm doomed." He mouthed to his brother.

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

"Really Lady Juliet," Colette griped. "You left your hair down! All of my attendants must be properly coiffed in a single briad chignon."

Juliet stood there glaring. It was bad enough that court manners meant that she would have to accept the request to be a bridesmaid. It was even worse that she was stuck in this awful pink, ruffled monstrosity of a dress. She'd be damned if she would also wear her hair in what was, in her opinion, an uncomfortable updo with thick pink ribbons clashing with her red hair.

Her best friends, Emily Beaumont and Izzy Kovak, stood loyally beside her in readiness to help defend her rebellious nature.

They of course had given in to such dictates and actually looked quite lovely in pink.

Colette huffed in irritation. "I should have known a Nevarkis-Walker would never be able to act civilized."

"Excuse me?" Juliet bit out.

She wondered how Colette would feel walking down the aisle with a black eye.

"Your parents pay no attention to how one is supposed to act in public." Colette continued. "Of course, your father is a commoner--"

"He's a duke!" Emily corrected.

"Just because he has the title, that doesn't mean he has the qualities that make a man a noble." Colette explained.

"That is a horrible thing to say." Izzy fought back tears of anger. She adored her Uncle Drake and Aunt Olivia. Jackson and Juliet were family in her heart. She couldn't stand to hear anyone say something bad about any of them.

"And yet it's true." Colette fluffed her veil. "Your mother of course had little choice other than a commoner offering for her hand in marriage. What else could she do but accept?"

Juliet folded her arms, reminding herself that she must still be a lady while setting this one in her place. It would be heavily frowned upon if she physically did something to the bride, much less embarass her loved ones in the process.

"Funny you should mention offers of marriage." A smile reminiscent of her mother's slightly evil one appeared on Juliet's lips. "As I recall, your mother has never had an offer from anyone. King Liam never wanted her during the social season. In fact, no noble nor commoner asked her to marry them. If it hadn't been for your grandfather practically begging your father to take her, I doubt any of us would be standing here for this joyous occasion."

Colette's face flushed with anger. Her bouquet trembled in her hands as her other attendants snickered and whispered about what was just revealed.

"Isn't it something how history repeats itself?" Juliet asked the group. "Your father had to make some deals with Sir Melvin's family, didn't he? Weren't you part of the bargain he made?"

"Melvin and I--we--" Colette stammered.

"I suppose that is what happens when you aren't as lucky as my family to have a love match." Juliet sighed.

Emily and Izzy shared a grin over not being needed as usual to help Juliet.

Kiara stuck her head inside the room to let them know it was time to line up.

"Good luck." Juliet smirked as she followed the others out, leaving Colette fuming.

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

"Don't the girls look beautiful?" Riley whispered.

While Liam and Ellis muttered their agreement, Emerick noticed only one particular lady. His lips eased into a genuine smile when he saw the smug satisfaction stamped upon Juliet's face.

He knew she must have just set someone in their place. It didn't take any brainpower to guess who would have needed to be told off. Colette needed it often during her dealings with their group of friends, especially a particular pair.

He scanned the guests and felt a sense of relief when he saw Jackson sitting next to Nicky Beaumont. He could still remember the time a couple of years ago when Colette tried to break them up in the hopes of stealing him for herself. Though the pair had yet to reconcile from their recent parting, he and the rest of their families and friends held out hope.

Perhaps this wedding would remind them of what they once had. Surely with them choosing to sit beside one another, it had to be a good sign.

Emerick then looked up where the groomsmen were. He met Alec's eyes and gave a brief grimace of sympathy. He hated that he, like the girls, had been roped into being a part of the wedding party. Alec and Izzy had inherited their mother's inability to say no when needed. Aunt Hana simply didn't have it in her to deny anyone help.

None of his friends should have to suffer with being a member of the wedding party.

Even as his mind wandered with thoughts of the near future for himself and what the rest held for those he deeply cared about, his attention returned again and again to Juliet.

He shouldn't think she looked beautiful in a dress that clashed with the richness of her red hair, and yet...she did. Her regal posture, slight tilting of her head, and that smug smile of hers made her seem almost untouchable. It was almost as if no man could have a right to do so.

It was a challenge that tempted him.

He averted his eyes when she met his stare with a quirked eyebrow.

Swallowing, he wondered how such a thought could possibly enter his mind. She was his best friend's little sister. He'd known her since her birth. If anything, she should be like a little sister to him, just as Nicky, Emily, and Izzy felt.

But she doesn't. She never has.

He wondered why that was just as the couple sealed their vows with a kiss.

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

At the reception, Emerick realized that nothing was worth what he had to endure.

"Prince Emerick, may I go sailing with you next time?" A lady from a nearby country fluttered her eyelashes at him. "I just adore it!"

"She gets seasick." Another spoke up. ""If anyone should go with him, it should be me since Father bought me my third yacht last week."

"Oh, but don't you play polo too? You should visit and see the new horse my brother bought." A third lady wriggled between him and the first, taking his arm in a tenacious grip.

While many more talked over each other to get his attention, he searched the banquet hall for Juliet.

She was surrounded herself with not only some of the groomsmen, but also a few single noblemen.

She looked as exhausted and irritated as he felt.

"Pardon me, ladies." He smiled at them as he made his way out of their circle. "I must greet someone I haven't seen in a long time."

Pouts and sighs of sadness followed him as he walked over to the red head in pink.

"Lady Juliet?" Emerick spoke up over the hum of men's voices. "A word, please."

Her green eyes narrowed somewhat before she curtsied. "Of course, your royal highness."

Once they were out of earshot, she eyed him. "What do you really want?"

"Help." He admitted with a rueful grin. "I'm being attacked on all sides by the ladies hoping for a crown." He gestured toward their friends. "Ellis and Alec abandoned me and are now trapped with their own bevy of ladies. Emily is dancing and has a number of men waiting on their chance with her. Izzy has her own beaus surrounding her and is too sweet to leave them in fear of hurting their feelings. And Nicky..." He pointed toward a corner of the hall.

Juliet's eyes widened at the sight of Nicky and her brother, Jackson, actually talking to one another with smiles and laughter.

"I don't want to interrupt any chance of them realizing they are still perfect for one another." Emerick said softly.

"Neither do I." Juliet said a quick silent prayer that this would be the end of her brother and friend being miserable in their separation.

"So here is my proposal." Emerick turned to face her, taking both of her hands. "Since you had your own group of unwanted suitors, we each spend the rest of the reception together."

"You really can't tell women to leave you alone, can you?" Juliet teased. "You interrupted me about to send all those men bothering me away. Perhaps you could learn something from it."

"Ah, but I saved you the trouble and possible backlash of them crying to their parents about your manners." He teased back. "Then their parents would have confronted your parents."

Juliet's proud demeanor began to deflate. "They would, wouldn't they?"

"Yes." He squeezed her hands. "How about it, Jules? You protect me from every single lady from the age of eighteen to eighty here and I'll keep the men away who will whine about your treatment of them."

Juliet gazed up into his handsome face. The teasing smirk of his held genuine warmth as he met her eyes.

"If I agree to this," she began, "will I be able to make fun of you and make snide comments about some of the guests, including the bride, her family, and the groom?"

Emerick choked back a laugh. "I'll allow it if only I can do the same to you and add my own commentary."

Juliet relaxed for the first time that day. "Then, it looks like I'm your bodyguard for the night."

"I already have those." He countered, leading her to the dancefloor. "What I need is a lady who makes others think they don't stand a chance of tearing me away from her."

"Looks like we will both have to give the performance of our lives." She countered with a smile.

He took her in his arms for a waltz. "I think if anyone can do it, it's me and you."

"True." She waved at Emily when they passed by. "I suppose there are worse people I could be stuck with for the night."

"Of course there are." He grumbled playfully. "That would be the majority of the guest list."

Her smile turned warm with approval. "Finally. Someone who can state the obvious without manners."

"I don't think I'll ever have my father's knack of saying the appropriate things in every situation." Emerick admitted. "God help the court when I become king."

Juliet chuckled. "I'm looking forward to that. I love Uncle Liam as King, but I sometimes wish he'd really tell a lot of them off."

"You're going to be a bad influence on me." Emerick teased. "If I know I have someone like you backing me up, I might completely lose any filter my parents have tried to instill in me."

Juliet shrugged. "You won't. You have your charm and you actually think before speaking most of the time. You won't be like your father, but I believe you will be a good king just the same."

"Just good, huh?" He twirled her, bringing her closer than before. "Not great?"

His smile grew when he heard her groan.

"Uncle Liam is great. You're lucky I think you'll be good."

"Well, if the great Lady Juliet Nevarkis-Walker believes this, then I am most fortunate."

"I'm really starting to regret our arrangement for tonight." She grumbled.

"No, you're not." He countered in a cheerful tone.

Juliet bit back a smile. "You wish I wasn't."

"Fine." He squeezed her waist. "If I must quit talking about how great you think I am, then I will let the subject go for now."

"I take back every nice thing I've ever said to you." She griped.

"Too late. As we both know, words can never be taken back." He twirled her again when her lips parted with a retort. "Now then, who should we talk about first? Melvin? Colette? Perhaps some other noble who gets under our skin?"

Juliet shook her head. "Colette. Look what she made me wear." Her nose wrinkled. "And you wouldn't believe the comments she made about my parents."

Emerick's teasing smile disappeared in a flash. "What did she say?"

"How my father wasn't a true noble because of how he acts and that my mother had to accept him because no one else wanted her. She blamed my not putting my hair up on learning horrible behavior from them."

Emerick's grip tightened around Juliet. His temper flared to life over someone saying such about the family he loved.

Juliet noticed the change in him immediately. She could see his jaw spasm as he fought to keep his tone low.

"She's jealous." He bit out. "She can't begin to compare to you in beauty, popularity, intelligence, loyalty, or strength. Colette could only strike at what means the most to you: your family."

Juliet's eyebrows lifted in surprise. She knew that Emerick was fond of all of them. Yet, she couldn't recall a time when he'd listed her attributes in such a passionate manner.

"She'll never have an ounce of what you have." He continued. His bright blue eyes cut to the bride. "That's why she is trapped with a man like Melvin."

"If that's what happens when you act like her," Juliet replied in an attempt to ease the tension, "then I will become the sweetest lady in court."

Emerick couldn't help but chuckle over the thought. "You'd dare steal Aunt Hana's and Izzy's crown?"

"Well..." Juliet found the mother and daughter they were speaking of, "Maybe I can be third in line to their crown as sweetest of them all."

"That means you have to give up making fun of nobles." He reminded her.

"Forget it. Nothing is worth that."

Emerick's deep laughter drew attention from many of the guests. What they saw caused both gossip to begin and many others to lose heart.

The playboy crown prince seemed to truly enjoy whatever discussion he and the lady from Lythikos were having.

And by coincidence, she seemed to be enjoying his company just as much.

Could it be the first sparks of something more?

[alj4890]

Are there any feelings on the way, between Crown Prince Emerich & Lady Juliet Walker?

We'll just have to wait and see 😉

[krsnlove]

Six Sentence Sunday

Note: This is more than six of course because I’m SO behind on it. But it’s coming. I promise. I’m almost done! It’s a miracle!

The kids of the original TRR/TRH Gang try to navigate through the social season, love, duty, and very vocal parents.

Series: While We’re Young with @alj4890

Tagging: @alj4890 @lodberg @vickypoochoices @thecordoniandiaries @texaskitten30 @hopefulmoonobject

You don’t think she’ll tell Mother, do you?”, a nervous Ellis anxiously looks behind him for any trace of Riley. He adored his mother but her interest in his and Zoey’s relationship was becoming a bit much.

Emerick laughed in response. “Of course she will. Aunt ‘Liv thrives on driving Mother mad.”

“No thanks to you. I nearly choked on my cronut when she found me cowering underneath the dessert table.”

“All is fair in...well, meddling mothers and what not.”

“I love her. You know I do. But she is driving me mad.”

The two brothers walked in companionable silence as they strolled the vast terrace just outside the crowded ballroom. A rare occurrence between the two young Princes due to the beginning of the social season and its busyness.

“How long do you think it will take before she finds us out here?”

Emerick shrugged his shoulders.

“I’ve learned a long time ago that Mother’s determination is unmatched. It’s best to not go up against her brother.”

“I’m not going up against her--,”

“Just not going along with her, then?,” Emerick asked with a chuckle.

Before Ellis can reply, Juliet’s voice suddenly cuts through the still of the night.

“Was that...a scream?,” Emerick looked in the direction of the voice before the two brothers break into a run towards the shriek.

[krsnlove]

A Mother’s Duty

A/N: A prompt that came from the bff @alj4890​ in the form of the picture below. I picture Liam and Riley having two sons and one daughter. Their oldest being a boy instead of a girl. 

This is from the While We’re Young storyline with @alj4890​. 

Pairing: Liam x Riley

Emerick tries to stifle the third yawn that comes to him, this time, without success. In the corner of his eye, he catches his Mother’s disapproving look from across the room.

With a wide grin on his face, he flashes her a discreet thumbs up which does little to put the Queen of Cordonia at ease.

“Chin up brother,” Ellis whispers as he bows to a young woman being introduced to the two Princes. “I have plans tonight and wish to keep them without Mother’s infamous rants after one of these.”

The sly smile on his older brother’s face worries the youngest of the two Princes.

“Don’t,” Ellis warned.

Another young woman was being introduced as the two young men half-listened to what was being said.

“I assure you, I have no intention of hearing Mother’s rants either. My ears are still burning from the last one,” Emerick winces at the memory of the conversation he had with her.

Ellis lightly chuckles before covering it with a cough.

“Of course. If I remember correctly you promised her, and I quote, “a plethora of grandchildren”, by the end of the night.”

Emerick groaned at the memory.

“Underneath our loving Mother is a ravaged wolf whose specialty is guilt when it comes to our future, Ellis. Mark my words.”

They dutifully bow once again as another young woman is introduced.

“Speaking of the lovable ravaged wolf,” Ellis elbows his older brother who was now looking at his watch.

Riley strides past the young women, smiling at each one of them, before placing herself between her two sons.

“Excuse us ladies,” Riley announces to the large group of women who curtsy in unison at the Queen and her two sons before the three walk several feet away from the gathering.

“Is something wrong?,” Ellis inquired.

“Are you enjoying yourselves this evening?,” Riley asks her own question.

“Oh, very much Mother,” the exaggeration in Emerick’s voice is almost identical to his Father’s older brother, who just happened to be his namesake. “The joy I feel with each given bow is indescribable. A party just for my spine.”

Riley does little to hide the mirth playing on her lips at his sarcasm.

“And Ellis?,” she looks to her youngest son, “How are you this evening?”

“Ravaged. Wolf,” Emerick silently mouthed the words at him.

“Fine Mother,” Ellis ignores him and looks at Riley. “Everything looks great. Good company. No complaints here,” he smiled at her.

“That’s so good to hear!,” Riley excitedly pulls him into a hug before moving to Emerick in the same manner. Ellis chooses to ignore the glare his older brother gives as Riley throws her hands around him in an eager hug.

“Now,” Riley begins to speak in a hushed tone, “have you read through the email I sent earlier?”

“Mother, you know I never forward chain letters,” Emerick smiles sweetly at her.

“So you did see it,” Riley lifts her head in superiority.

“Ravaged. Wolf,” Emerick muttered, more so for his sake than his younger brother.

“Ellis?,” Riley looks to the Prince who possesses her cheerful demeanor. “Did you read it as well?”

Ellis’ brows furrowed in confusion.

“I thought it was a mistake.”

“Ellis Drake Rhys,” Riley used his full name for effect, “you should know by now I do not make mistakes.”

“After you of course, little brother,” Emerick added as he rocks back on the heels of his shoes in a delighted manner.

“And you,” Riley turns to him suddenly, “Emerick Leopold Rhys…”.

Her oldest puts his hands up in defense.

“Mother, I read the email,” Emerick quickly responds which seems to dissuade Riley from further interrogating him. “Unlike some of us,” his eyes cut to Ellis, “who promptly deleted it from their inbox.”

Ellis’ eyes widened at the revelation he had shared with him in private.

“Please tell me this is another one of your brother’s jokes I do not appreciate,” Riley turns to her youngest son with concern in her eyes.

“Your words hurt me, Mother,” Emerick clutches at his heart in a wounded manner.

Ellis ignores the dramatized show his eldest brother was putting on.

“It was a list of names. I was sure it was sent to me by mistake,” he protests.

Riley sighed.

“It is a list of names. It is the guest list after all,” she clarifies.

“Guest list?,” the two Princes ask at the same time.

“For the wedding!,” Riley does little to hide the excitement in her voice.

“Er,” Emerick looks to her and then to Ellis, “...who is getting married?”

“And why would you send me the guest list?,” Ellis follows with his own question.

Before Riley can answer, Emerick spots Ellis’s longtime girlfriend walk into the room, finally bringing clarity to the situation.

The laughter erupting from the oldest crowned Prince stuns both Riley and Ellis along with the rest of the attendees.

“Did we miss something?,” Ellis asks, not caring to hide the irritation in his voice.

“Cancel those plans little brother,” Emerick is finally able to speak in complete sentences.

“Mother?,” Ellis looks at Riley.

“We need to talk,” she says with a delighted smile.

“About you and Zoey.”

“What about…,” Ellis begins until realization dawns on him. “Mother, no!”

Riley hurries to shush him as others begin to turn their attention on them again.

“We can talk more about it tonight,” Riley tells her youngest who sighs in defeat, agreeing to the later meeting.

“Your Father and I look forward to it,” she adds just as Liam walks up from behind her.

“And what am I looking forward to?,” he asks as he places his hand on Riley’s waist, pulling her close.

“The end of Ellis as we know it,” Emerick answers. The scowl on Ellis’s face did little to discourage his chuckle.

Riley waves her hand in dismissal.

“Emerick, stop giving your brother a hard time. Honestly, if I didn’t know any better I swear I could be in the presence of your father and your Uncle Leo.”

A proud smile crosses Liam’s face.

“The Rhys legacy lives on through our sons,” he nods to Emerick and Ellis with a sense of pride in his eyes.

Riley shakes her head when she suddenly remembers the large group of attendees behind her family.

“We’ll see you tonight Ellis,” Riley reminds him as she and Liam begin to walk away.

“Chin up brother,” Emerick tells him, “I’ll have fun for the both of us after this event is over.”

“Oh and Emerick,” Riley calls back to him.  

“Yes Mother,” he answers with the smile that matches his Father’s still on his lips.

“Don’t forget to bring the list of potentials I sent earlier. I would like to go through them with you tonight as well.”

Emerick’s smile slowly falls from his face.

“Potentials? Mother, I…” words fail the eldest Prince.

“Had no plans whatsoever tonight,” Ellis finishes for him with a look of glee, clapping Emerick’s shoulder in excitement. “We will see you both after this.”

“Perfect,” Riley looks at her two sons as a sly grin comes to her.

“This lovable ravaged wolf looks forward to it.”

Tagging: @alj4890​ @vickypoochoices​ @liam-rhys​ @lodberg​ @texaskitten30​ @thecordoniandiaries​

[krsnlove]

Prince Emerick Leopold Rhys [Aesthetic] 

First born of King Liam &Queen Riley

Inspiration for the upcoming “While We’re Young” Series with @alj4890. So excited for this!

[hopelessromantic1352]

Ugh I’m so weak for a protective man 😩 I LOVE THESE TWO!!!!

And Thomas 😩 why is he so perfect even in such a small role.

Love Drabble

Quid Pro Quo Pars Duo

(Jackson Nevrakis-Walker x Nichole "Nicky" Beaumont) in a look at what happened at Collette's wedding.

A/N 🤣 well I'm easily swayed. When I saw @twinkleallnight 's comment that she would love to see what these two were doing at the wedding while Emerick and Juliet were joining up to avoid suitors, I wondered the same thing and even thought about maybe writing it while I was writing the previous drabble. 😂 And for @hopelessromantic1352 , I've added more Thomas for you. So once again, let's see if we can find a way to get these two back on the road to being a couple again.

@lodberg ​​ @hopefulmoonobject ​ ​​@hopelessromantic1352  @krsnlove ​ @twinkleallnight @tessa-liam @sirbeepsalot @thehonorarybeaumont

Masterlist

Paris, France...

"Aren't you riding with us?" Olivia asked while following Juliet into the waiting car.

Jackson shook his head. "I'll meet you there."

She quirked an eyebrow at Drake.

He knew that look meant that he should press for more information.

"If you've found a way to miss this wedding," Drake instead said,'"then take me with you."

Olivia rolled her eyes in a huff.

Juliet leaned over her to yell out.

"If anyone shouldn't have to go to this ridiculous wedding, it's ME!" Her green eyes focused on her brother. "Please tell me you found a way out of this!"

"I haven't." Jackson replied with a grimace. He knew better than anyone how much his sister didn't want to be a part of this event. "Sorry, Jules. You know I would have told you if I had."

She slumped back into the carseat.

Olivia motioned for Drake to get in. "We'll see you there."

Drake patted his son's shoulder as he got in.

"Don't be late!" Juliet yelled out once more.

Jackson held a hand up in farewell as the car drove off.

Slipping his hands in his pockets, he headed towards the Beaumont's vila.

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

"Hey Jax!" Izzy greeted, rushing down the steps.

"Bye Jax!" Emily added, following at her heels.

With giggles and chatter, they quickly got into a waiting car and got on their way to the church.

Jackson released a relieved sigh. He wasn't quite up to anyone questioning why he was coming over to the Beaumont's.

His trip to Los Angeles had gone better than he hoped. He and Nicky were able to be around one another without any pressure or arguing. As if by unspoken agreement, they steered clear of any talk about their infamous breakup and the reasons behind Nicky leaving him.

He wondered now if he was pushing his luck. They had been around none of the usual crowd those few days in Los Angeles. Now they would be attending an event that held the very people, the very pressures, their relationship used to be under.

Would it cause all the bitter feelings of their ending, memories of happier times, and reminders why they weren't in fact engaged by now or at the very least, happily in love to rise to the forefront of their minds?

No use worrying over it now, Jackson thought to himself.

He knocked on the door, hoping he wasn't about to do something that would end up hurting them both.

His eyes widened somewhat at the sight of Thomas Hunt opening the door.

"Jackson." The famous director eyed him before his frown eased. "I see you've been dragged into this wedding nonsense like everyone else."

"Yes, sir." Jax chuckled while stepping inside. "How'd you get stuck with going?"

Thomas softly smiled. "It is hard, as I'm sure you know, to say no to a lady's pleading." His lips eased even more. "Especially when she reminds you of all the times she came along as your plus one in the past."

"I heard that." Amanda playfully grumbled as she came down the stairs.

Jax braced himself. Fear of anger or coldness from her gripped him. He knew he shouldn't feel that way, especially since it was Nicky who had dumped him, but he worried about seeing her after all this time.

Amanda had been one of his favorite "aunts" growing up. Once he realized he was in love with Nicky, he realized why he adored Amanda as much as he did. She and Nicky shared so many traits, both physically and personality wise, he couldn't help but love her too.

Plus, he'd always assumed that she would one day be his mother-in-law.

His worry disappeared the moment she flashed her warm, delighted smile his way.

"Jax!" She walked up to kiss his cheek. Her eyes flitted over his face. "I swear you look just like Drake did at your age."

He chuckled, returning her hug. "That's what everyone says."

"And here I was hoping to be the first to think that." She winked at him. "Nicky should be down soon."

"Soon soon, or soon?" He teased.

She laughed. "Soon soon, I think."

She then turned her attention on Thomas. "Don't you look handsome?"

The gruff director snorted while tugging at his bowtie. "Of the two of us, I think you deserve the compliment." His eyes dropped down her blue lace dress. "Might want to change in case you upstage the bride."

She laughed, shaking her head. "I know that's not true and a rather clever ploy on your part to make us late for the wedding."

"Nonsense." Thomas replied. "I have no desire to be late." His lips eased into another smile. "I'm trying to get us out of going completely." He offered his arm to her. "Truthfully though, you do look quite lovely."

"That's what I told her." Nicky called out.

Jackson felt his heart stop the moment he saw her coming downstairs. The silk gown Nicky wore looked as if it had been designed with her in mind.

He'd always loved waiting on her at the bottom of a staircase. It gave him more time to admire her figure while feeling a great sense of pride that she'd chosen him as the man to escort her wherever they were going. His eyes were already falling into their old habit of traveling down her curves then catching glimpses of a long leg peeping out of a high slit.

He met her eyes when she paused on the next to the last step. How many times did he take it for granted that she used to do that so they would be the same height for a kiss.

She beamed at him. "You shaved!"

He rubbed his jaw. "This is a court event. One must be properly sheered for everyone to admire."

"As I recall, you weren't too concerned with that edict and neither were Uncle Liam and Aunt Riley." She teased.

He found himself smiling at her, simply enjoying that the same feeling he had seeing her again in Los Angeles had only grown stronger these last couple of months.

So far, it wasn't a fluke.

"We should go." Amanda whispered to Thomas.

She slipped her arm within the bend of his, tugging him quietly away from what she hoped was the beginning of their reconciliation.

Nicky looked up at their retreating forms.

"We'll meet you there!" She called out.

"See you soon." Amanda responded.

Once the door shut, Nicky let out a sigh.

"You okay?" Jackson asked.

"I am." She smiled at him. "It's been a busy day getting everyone dressed and all." She looked once more towards the empty entryway. "Emily and Izzy's laughter woke me up. Then Mom and Uncle Thomas were out on the terrace having breakfast and simply enjoying themselves." She sighed happily again. "It has been a perfect day."

Jackson felt that old need to take her in his arms and simply hold her. He knew from what she'd shared when he last saw her how much she needed her mother and sister to be back to how they once were. Hearing her say it was perfect simply in seeing them happy made him want to remind her how she'd made so many of his own days perfect by simply being there.

Right now, this day felt absolutely perfect.

She refocused on him. "You look quite dashing for this wedding." Her dimpled grin grew. "Is this in revenge for Colette or are you hoping to catch someone's eye."

He slipped his hands in his pockets and leaned against the banister. His signature smirk appeared on his handsome face as he met her hazel gaze.

"I think I already caught someone's eye." He winked at her making her laugh. "With how you look, I wouldn't mind having you on my arm for the rest of the night."

She playfully swatted him with her clutch once she took his arm. "Careful, or I'll tell Colette you're planning on objecting during the ceremony."

"Talk like that makes me think you have some Nevrakis blood in your veins." He shuddered, making her laugh again. "That's quite a threat."

She squeezed his arm close for a moment. "Don't worry. I kept you out of her clutches for years." She looked up at him, feeling a thrill over the smile he gave her. "One more night won't kill me."

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

"Nicky!" Alec rushed down the steps of the church to sweep her into a big hug.

She hugged him tight before stepping back to admire his gray tux. "Let me see you." She motioned for him to turn around. "Just as I thought." She tapped her chin, eyes swimming with mirth. "Still devastatingly handsome."

"Don't even think about trying to distract me with compliments." Alec warned. "You were supposed to call me when you got to Paris."

"I know, I'm sorry. I was exhausted by the time we landed yesterday." She explained. "I slept sixteen hours."

"Oh." Alec stopped wagging his finger at her. "Then I suppose I can let you off this one time." He squeezed her into another hug. "But only if you tell me you're coming back to Cordonia for good soon."

Her smile dimmed some while glancing over at Jackson talking to some other nobles. "I think we will. It's been hard to bring it up to Mom and Emily. Everywhere we go, we'll end up thinking about Dad and I'm worried they'll become depressed again." She swallowed, wishing things had gone differently. "I know I'll hurt seeing our home and all the old places we used to go, all while knowing he won't be there with us. I don't know if I can take going through it again."

Alec wrapped his arm around her shoulders, squeezing her close like he always did whenever she was sad. He rested his head against hers for a moment, trying to find a way for his best friend and family he loved to be able to come home for good.

"Plus, I'm sure it would be a bother to Jax if I did return." She admitted. "I can just picture the press hounding him everywhere he went into how it felt for the lady who dumped him to return."

She had to fight back tears in thinking how he might end up hating her in the end. She couldn't risk losing these steps forward with him. She hoped that one day, they'd be standing on a church's steps like this because it was their wedding and that was why one of her best friends was hugging her.

"I guess this means I have to come see you then in California." Alec mumbled.

He noticed how down she looked and gently shook her.

"I should be getting all over you for what you did."

Her head jerked up, lips parted in shock.

He continued in a serious tone to tease her. "You've made me the one to keep Emerick and Jax in line." He lowered his head to hers. "You know that was supposed to be your job. I'm merely the getaway driver."

She burst into laughter.

Jackson smiled over at the two when he heard the sound then excused himself from the group he was talking to.

"What's so funny?" He asked, attempting to be causal as he pulled Nicky back beside him.

She automatically slipped her arm within the bend of his. Jackson placed his free hand over hers, smiling down at her.

Alec noticed the whole interaction and couldn't help but hope this was only a glimpse of the beginning of them finally being where they were supposed to be. He couldn't think of two people more perfect for one another than these two other than his own parents.

"I was reminding Nicky of our jobs." Alec replied with a wink at her.

"Jobs?" Jax repeated.

Nicky giggled some more. "Alec has had to deal with you and Emerick all on his own."

"I'd forgotten how much she helps when you two go off on adventures." Alec reminded him. "I think I've aged ten years since she left me alone with you two."

"Come on." Jax argued. "I'm nowhere near as much trouble as Emerick."

Nicky and Alec shared an amused look.

"I'm not!" He told them.

Nicky gently patted his hand. "Of course you aren't."

"Alec!" One of the groomsmen motioned for him to hurry back into the church.

"That's my cue." His earlier joy seeing his friends disappeared.

"We better go find our seats." Jax added.

"We'll look for you at the reception." Nicky promised as Jackson pulled her behind him.

"Can't wait." Alec's grin returned.

He couldn't wait to see them back as a couple.

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

The two had originally planned to sit near either his parents or hers. Since they were running behind, they ended up slipping into the end of a pew in the middle of the sanctuary.

There was little space left. Nicky was squeezed up tight against Jackson's side to avoid crowding the other man next to her.

"Sorry." She whispered.

"No problem." He mumbled back.

Every time she turned to look about at the decorations and wedding party coming down the aisle, he would catch whiffs of her perfume. She seemed to not notice him shifting in his seat to keep her completely against his side.

He draped his arm along the back of the pew, fingers gently brushing her bare shoulders. He wished her hair was down so he could tease her by pulling at a lock during the drawn out ceremony.

He then noticed the tears in her eyes.

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

Nicky was doing fine, even cheering in her mind each time Jackson moved to keep her close. When he draped his arm behind her, her nerves nearly sang feeling him touch her skin once more.

But then the couple began their vows to one another.

Her giddiness dissipated at the thought that this was all she wanted...all she'd ever wanted.

Her dream, even as a little girl, was to be married to Jax. To have to sit here and watch a couple who weren't even in love go through the very ceremony she longed for hurt worse than she expected.

It felt like her chance for happiness really was dead. Jackson probably did just want her as his date for revenge. Either that or use her as a shield against the other ladies who eyed him with lust for his body and/or his title.

She'd never have a wedding, at least not with him.

She should be grateful that he at least treated her as a beloved friend now instead of...

Her breath hitched the moment she felt his lips against her temple. His arm curved around her shoulders while he offered her his handkerchief.

She looked up at him.

His brow was furrowed in that familiar way whenever he saw her crying. She knew he couldn't stand to see her upset. He'd once told her he never felt as helpless as he did the moment he saw a tear fall down her cheek.

Could it be he still felt that way over her? That he could still love her after everything that happened between them? The fights and harsh words...had they left no lasting, irreparable damage upon their hearts?

He leaned down toward her face and pressed his forehead against hers. His nose brushed hers briefly, lips so close to her own.

"Don't cry." He pleaded in a whisper.

She sniffed and raised his handkerchief to dab under her eyes. The moment she began to pull away from him, he locked his arm in place around her.

She couldn't help but hope that this meant he would want to marry her some day.

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

The two remained by the other's side for the whole reception. They laughed during observations of their siblings and friends. They danced only with each other, much to Collette's irritation. And shared a number of glasses of champagne off in secluded corners.

When it came time for the bouquet toss, Colette specifically called Nicky's name and those of Juliet, Emily, and Izzy to come to the front.

"I know you each need all the help you can get to find a husband."

She'd attempted to make her insult sound like a playful taunt, yet everyone who knew her caught the true meaning.

Juliet purposely folded her arms, determined to burn the bouquet if it even came close to her.

Emily rolled her eyes over the situation, firmly decided to relax and let other ladies from the court fight over it. She knew her sister and friends would all have much better spouses than what Colette ended up with.

Izzy was fuming with a smile on her face, just like her mother, Hana, taught her. She was having all kinds of revenge scenarios running in her mind for Colette to even think of insulting her friends. She would pick one and find a way to get back at the young lady for daring to cross those she adored.

Nicky, though wanting to slap Colette over so many things she'd done to her through the years, managed to remain calm and collected.

Before she could blink, the bouquet was coming directly towards her.

Without much thought, Nicky caught the bouquet of white lilies and roses.

Colette burst into raucous laughter.

"Lady Nicky!" She doubled over, making certain every eye was on her. "Let's hope you can catch a husband as easily as you did the bouquet."

Chuckles and murmurs came from all over the banquet hall.

Those closest to Nicky were decidedly not laughing. Their stoney, bored expressions let the entire room know their feelings.

Thomas had to grip Amanda's hand under the table to keep her from getting up and saving her daughter from Colette. Her hazel eyes had darkened with her anger.

Drake kept a grip on Olivia's shoulder keeping her still. Rashad eased back when he noticed Hana trembling with rage. Riley ignored Liam's whisper to calm down, deciding to let those close to their table know how gauche the Queen of Cordonia found Collette's behavior.

Alec, Emerick, and Ellis all had fists clenched ready to jump in if Nicky needed them.

Emily had tears in her eyes, wishing that her sister wasn't being humiliated in such a way. She was ready to scream to everyone that laughed how wonderful and lucky some man would be to win Nicky's heart. She wished Scott Caulfield was here, showing the world that Hollywood's newest sex symbol was completely enamored with Nicky.

Izzy had already decided on which forms of vengeance she'd enact on Colette. Now she could add some more for doing this to their Nicky.

Juliet already had her lips parted, ready to launch into a verbal onslaught these pampered nobles never knew was possible.

But then...

Jackson stepped up and took Nicky's hand. In front of all of them; he lifted it to his lips for a lingering kiss and managed to have that shy hopeful smile on his face.

"I hope I know the lucky man." He said loud enough for everyone to hear.

Mutterings and whispers exploded over the hint that he would be the one she chose to marry.

Nicky blinked at him, unsure what to say.

He tucked her hand in the bend of his arm and led her out of the hall.

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

"Give me a minute." Nicky pleaded once they went down a part of the mansion closed off for the party.

Before Jackson could react, she dashed into a nearby room and shut the door.

She fumbled in the dark for a lamp then leaned against a desk. Her breaths came in and out in broken gasps as she relieved the humiliating moment over and over.

I shouldn't have come, she thought. To face everyone again after so little time and with Jax! I want to go home. I don't want to be here or with anyone ever again. Why did I think--

Jackson slipped inside and shut the door.

Nicky whirled around in surprise, bracing herself against a desk. In the shadowed light, Jackson's face looked harsher than usual. His dark eyes held her immobile as his hands clenched into fists.

She didn't know what to do anymore as she stared at him. All her hopes and dreams seemed so foolish now. It was pointless. All she was trying to do was completely pointless.

With a curse over seeing her upset once more, Jax crossed the room and yanked her in his arms. His lips captured any words she was about to say in a deep, desperate kiss.

Nicky hung limp for two heartbeats before she wrapped her arms around his neck. She eagerly responded to every touch of his lips and tongue against hers. She felt like she was coming back into the warm light after months of cold, bitter darkness.

The feel of Jackson holding her like he once did didn't feel old or dull. Her body reacted as if they had never kissed or touched before this very moment. The butterflies and heart racing was just as strong or if not stronger than before.

His hands splayed on her bare back, attempting to press her even closer.

He felt his senses come alive for the first time in months with the passion and tenderness of her response.

He'd wondered if they ever got around to kissing again if it would be comfortable and nothing new. He knew now that it was an all new excitement thrumming through his veins over being reunited with her once more.

Their breaths echoed in the room when they ended the kiss. They held tight to the other while searching for signs of regret or repulsion.

They knew they should probably talk about whether or not this was a moment of weakness, too much champagne, or simply because they couldn't imagine being with anyone else.

All they wanted to do was wallow in the wonder of their kiss and see if it was as good as if felt. They both leaned in for another.

And another...

And another...

And another...

[alj4890]

Knowing it was from our WWY group, Just 😭

Then being on the know of their future but still like

And of course, imagining how romantic and sweet these two are.

Just perfect M. As always.

Christmas Gifts

A/N: We’re still a day or so away from a new year so no. I am not late with a Christmas fic *avoids eye contact*…set in the While We’re Young world with the bff @alj4890​

Pairing: Liam x Riley [ A L W A Y S ]

Tagging: @alj4890​ @vickypoochoices​ @thecordoniandiaries​ @kingliam2019​ @lodberg​ @texaskitten30​ @cora-nova​ @kingliamisbae​

Riley discreetly cracks open the bedroom door that held the product of the love she and Liam share. The night-light emitting a soft glow inside allows her to make out the numbers on the nearby clock. It was a quarter until 9PM and Riley can still hear their 3 year-old son Emerick conducting a press conference in bed. 

“Yes! Christmas will be everyday!,” his excited whisper is heard throughout the room. “Next question?”

Riley silently chuckles to herself, not wanting to alert him of the unknown audience nearby. She is now used to catching one of his press conferences in bed at least twice a week. When she asked him one day why he did that, Emerick simply answered, “I saw Daddy doing it on TV today.”

The joy she felt in that moment at seeing how much their son wanted to be like Liam caused her heart to soar. And now, Riley thought…

“Is he asleep?,” Liam’s soft hands come from behind her waist interrupting her thoughts. She feels the light stubble of his cheek as he presses a kiss to her neck.

“Not yet,” she whispers. “The press conference sounds like it’s almost over though.” Liam’s lips curve into a smile, listening to Emerick’s voice begin to slur signaling his falling asleep.

It isn’t long before Riley closes Emerick’s bedroom door and looks at Liam excitedly.

“Is it time?,” her whispered voice went two octaves higher as she silently clapped her hands.

Liam nodded in silent consent with a wide grin.

“It is, my love.”

They walked, hand in hand, away from Emerick’s bedroom for several feet until reaching the other end of the palace wing that held their own bedroom quarters.

“After you,” Liam said as he opens the door.

Riley eagerly makes her way to the vanity set before producing a small box from one of the drawers.

“Merry Christmas Liam,” she said as she walks toward him. Riley feels her eyes beginning to sting with tears.

Please not now, she silently scolds herself.

Liam exchanges the long rectangular box in his own hands for the one in Riley’s when he places a kiss on her lips.

“Merry Christmas, my Queen.”

Riley can’t help the smile that comes to her as she studies the man standing before her.  

Her kind, passionate, selfless, vanilla-loving, humble, sexy, father of her children, and inexplicably good-looking husband.

“Is everything okay?,” Liam asks, studying the dazed look on her face.

“With you, Liam, I’ll always be okay.”

“Hey, I thought I was the one with the cheesy lines,” he said with a small laugh.

“You inspire me my King,” Riley quipped with a smile.

“Can we open our gift already?!”

“It is your world, my love. I’m just lucky enough to live in it,” Liam replies with a small bow.

“If we weren’t already sleeping together…,” Riley winks at him as she carefully removes the lid from the rectangular box.

“…Liam…”, she tries but fails to form a sentence.

“Do you like it?,” he nervously asks. She inspects the gold chain bracelet and notices the two heart shaped charms attached.

“I had them inscribed,” Liam said quietly.

Riley turns over one heart charm with a large L in cursive.

Always & Forever

She can feel the tears in her eyes threaten to spill as her fingers run over their wedding date beneath those words.

“Emerick wanted to make his own,” Liam said with a chuckle. “It turns out that 3 year-olds surprisingly can’t keep sentences to four words or less when it comes to inscribing jewelry.”

Riley looks up at him with a smile then back to the second heart shaped charm.

A large E in cursive with Emerick’s birth date is the first thing she notices. Just enough for a single tear to escape each of her eyes.

Mom. Dad. Me.

“He had help,” Liam offered when Riley read the words on the charm. She lets out a laugh that sounds like a cry as tears of joy come down her cheeks.

“Liam…,” she eagerly pulls him into a hug.

“Do you like it?,” he asks again.

“I love it,” she assures him with a kiss on his lips. “Please,” she motions for him to place the bracelet on her wrist. Liam gently lifts the gold chain from the box and secures the clasp before placing a kiss inside her wrist.

Riley surveys the new jewelry on her wrist as a new wave of tears pool within her eyes as she the large L and E shine brightly underneath the light. “So…,” Liam clears his throat before continuing, “there is room on that bracelet for you know…the future.”

Riley raises her eyebrow but stays quiet, allowing him to finish.

“The future. Trips. Vacations. Pets. Even maybe…,” Liam’s eyes move away from her gaze, “…children.”

She can’t help the smile that comes to her lips with excitement building up inside her.

“When you’re ready of course Riley,” Liam rushes to assure her. “I know we discussed it early in our marriage about raising a family. With Emerick turning 4 soon I thought we can start trying again. It doesn’t have to be soon but I’m just–.”

“Liam I love you,” Riley interrupts him by placing a finger on his lips.

“…But…,” Riley’s hesitancy causes Liam to prepare himself for news that she wasn’t prepared for another crazy nine months. After all, he attempts to assure himself, it is only fair they both be on the same page.

“I think you should open your gift first,” she urges him.

Liam narrows his eyes in suspicion at her odd request.

With the lid removed, Liam blinks a few times ensuring he wasn’t seeing things.

“Love…,” he whispers. Liam picks up the black and white sonogram picture and glances at Riley.

“We can’t start trying for another baby,” Riley said with tears running down her cheek.

“We’re already pregnant, my King.”