#trr au one temptation

[msjr0119]

One Temptation

Part 10

*This series is based on The Royal Romance characters who belong to Pixelberry - AU Plot switch*

Riley Brooks moves back to New York after leaving five years prior- struggling to get by in life she wanted to go home. After getting mugged, a woman and man come to her rescue and offer her a job at their strip club. A rich business man Liam Rhys is forced to visit the club as part of his bachelor party. What will happen that night?

Tags-if you want to be removed from the list, let me know 😊: @pedudley @kacie-0156 @loveellamae @annekebbphotography @burnsoslow @ladyangel70 @kingliam2019 @bbrandy2002 @butindeed @bascmve01 @drakewalker04 @captain-kingliamsqueen @duchessemersynwalker @drxkewalker @texaskitten30 @ibldw-main @kimmiedoo5 @nikkis1983 @gnatbrain @walker7519 @lodberg @cmestrella @kozabaji @hopefulmoonobject @addictedtodrakefanfic @angi15h @liamxs-world @rafasgirl23415 @notoriouscs @whenyourheartskipsabeat @jovialyouthmusic @nz1091 @yukinagato2012 @seriouslybadchoices @rainbowsinthestorm @cordonianroyalty @dcbbw @qammh-blog @jared2612 @princess-geek @desireepow-1986 @indiacater

A/N: This part is smaller than most, the next part will be posted once I’ve finished work or tomorrow.

Warnings: Swearing, abuse.

*****

I miss you. X

Hey, are you okay? I haven’t heard from you in a few days. X

Ri, I love you. Please text back. I just want to know that you are okay. X

Can I come and see you? X

Riley sighed as she re read all the messages that she had received from, messages that she hadn’t responded to as if they didn’t exist. It had been a few weeks since she had seen him in the hotel room. Waking up the following morning, she snuck out of the room. Regretting letting her feelings get the best of her- she knew it was best to just leave without saying a word. Maybe in time, they could gradually speak- when she was sober.

“I’m going to have to get you a bucket, are you coming down with something?” Gill asked as she walked over to Riley, noticing that she was pale, as she sipped the water behind the bar and was immediately sick.

“I don’t know? It must be that seafood that we ate last night. I’ve had an upset stomach since this morning...”

“Just stay behind the bar tonight, I’ll get you a bucket in case you can’t make it to the toilet. If you need time off, just go home.”

Staying behind the bar, she was hoping that this shift would go quickly. The usual punters attempted flirting with as they always did- as much as she tried, she tried to flirt back. But the smell of alcohol was making her feel instantly ill. Bending down, she discreetly puked up in the bucket on the floor.

“Hello, can I have a scotch please.”

“I’ll be one minute...” Wiping her mouth, she placed some gum in her mouth as she slowly stood up.

“Bertrand?”

“Hello, stranger.” Wiping his finger along the bar, he looked disgusted viewing all the dust and the sticky residue stuck on his finger like super glue. He was shocked to see her behind the bar, when she first arrived back in New York City- he was horrified when Maxwell blurted out that she was a stripper.

“What are you doing here?”

“It’s a free country.. I’m just checking that you are okay. You don’t look okay- you look as white as a sheet. You haven’t spoken to anyone - we were all concerned about you.”

“I’m fine, shouldn’t you be with Savannah? Congratulations by the way, how is the little bundle of joy?” Providing him with the drink, she explained that it was on the house to congratulate him on becoming a father- as well as ‘wetting the baby’s head’. She knew that this day was coming, but it still hurt knowing the day that their baby arrived could have been the day that she was holding her own bundle of joy.

“He’s amazing. We are having a get together tomorrow night, you should come and meet Bartie.”

“I might do, it depends if I can get time off work or not.” He’s going to be there. Covering her mouth, that all familiar taste made its way back in to her mouth.

“Are you pregnant?”

“No, don’t be fucking stupid...” fuck. I could be. Horror was soon written all over her face, of course Bertrand would assume this- Savannah was pregnant and had morning sickness, so he was now an expert knowing the symptoms.

“I ate seafood last night, I don’t think it’s agreed with my stomach...”

“Or maybe that little rendezvous you had in Times Square has had some consequences...” Perking his eyebrows up, he knew she was in denial- if she was indeed pregnant, he knew that she wouldn’t be alone- she would have support from everyone.

“How do you know about that?” Shaking his head, everyone knew. Due to the man explaining what had happened and him being concerned as she ran off and had ignored him ever since.

“He’s worried about you, he asked if anyone had spoken to you. What is it with you and hotel rooms?” He laughed attempting to make the situation a joke rather than it being a serious matter.

“You know me B. Whenever Liam had conferences with his father, I’d stay in the hotel room with him. Leo, in Florida- when he found me. Maxwell when we all got drunk in Vegas. And Drake, the hotel before we arrived at the ranch the following day..”

“Well we are meeting tomorrow at the Hilton, midtown. Who’s next on your hotel fuck list? You could use tomorrow as an opportunity.” See her frown at him, he laughed. “I’m joking! Thank you for the drink, Ri. I hope you can attend.”

*****

The sickness had deteriorated the day after, feeling relieved she was sure it was due to the food. Getting ready to go to hotel, she was a bag of nerves. Deep down she didn’t want to go- however as Bertrand said they were practically family years ago.

Arriving at the Hilton, she was greeting by a waiter who gave her a champagne flute. Gulping it in one, it would give her dutch courage that she most likely would need to survive the whole event. Scrutinising the room, she saw everyone- as well as Drake’s family. Fuck, I forgot about them. Just breathe, Riley. Bertrand noticed her stood vacant at the threshold. Carrying Bartie over towards her, she placed a fake smile onto her face.

“Bartie, this is Auntie Riley...” Riley placed her finger into the newborns open hand- his tiny fingers wrapped around her immediately with a tight grip.

“Hey, gorgeous... aw Bertrand he’s adorable.”

“Do you want to hold him?” Riley nodded, holding the newborn- she was in love immediately. Bartie began to panic, possibly sensing that his mother and father wasn’t present and that he was in a strangers arms. Natural instinct made her coo at Bartie, before singing him a lullaby. Whilst singing- she placed the baby's head in the crook of one arm and wrapped the other arm around him- she was scared of dropping or breaking him.

“You’re a natural...are you still up for those babysitting duties?” He said with an encouraging tone of voice. Looking up at him, she smiled softly.

“Of course I’ll babysit him. No B, I’m not a natural- I’m a woman. He probably just thinks that my breasts are Savannah’s. Although if you carry on drinking beer, you could grow some man boobs...”

“I’d usually be offended with your sarcasm, but it’s good to see you smile.”

“He’s so gorgeous isn’t he? Hello, Riley.” Shifting her gaze from Bartie, she looked up at the woman. The woman who could win so many oscars with her fake attitude.

“Hello, Mrs Walker. Erm - Bertrand, I think he’s hungry- he’s getting far too close to my breasts..” Bertrand bend down to collect his son, he knew that this was probably just an excuse to remove herself from Bianca’s presence.

“Can you stop following me please...”

“I just want to say sorry for everything I did to you in Texas. Bertrand has explained about your true personality and you sound like a really nice person. I feel awful for the way we treat you...”

“I loved your son, I just wanted to make a good impression. At the time, I’d actually given up work. Who told you that I was a prostitute? That question has been lingering in my mind this whole time...”

“Liam Rhys...” Of course, it was him. That slimy bastard. “Did he give you that money?”

“No, it was from Kiara’s father.” Sighing, she really didn’t want that name to be mentioned, it was just a reminder of more heartache that she had received.

“Thank you. See you around.”

“Riley, wait!” Rolling her eyes back, she couldn’t be bothered with anymore of Bianca’s games. Not quite believing her new sincere attitude, she wanted to keep a distance- a long distance away from the woman.

“I’m so sorry about the baby...” holding her tears back, she began to struggle concealing the emotions. “You are a natural as Bertrand said, I do apologise again.”

“I’d have had our baby by now, imagine if I did. You hated me before you even got to know me. What would you have been like with your grandchild? Ignored it because you had a vendetta against its mother? Please, don’t try and talk to me again Mrs Walker...”

****

Seeing him smirking and laughing with people, the tears that she held back were now non existent. Instead anger built up throughout her body. Just the sight of him made her feel physically sick, him acting as if he had done nothing wrong. Storming through the crowd towards him, his eyes widened seeing her face like thunder.

“Liam! A word now!”

“Riley, it’s nice to see you...” swinging her fist back- this had become her new hobby especially with Liam. The scotch that he was holding was soon all over the floor- as the glass shattered the room went mute.

“How could you do that to me?” The tears that she had held in soon resurfaced and fell down her face, as her chin began to tremble she was unable to prevent all of the emotions bursting out.

“Do what?” Coming closer towards her, he wiped the wetness that was smudging her make up- not that she cared in the slightest.

“I dropped the charges, you avoided punishments because of my stupid goddamn heart. I went for lunch with you. I thought we had closure. Then I find out that you was the reason behind the Walkers hating me!”

“You went for lunch with him?” Leo walked over with Maxwell and Drake, concerned overhearing the shouting. “What have you done now?”

“He told Drake’s family that I was a fucking goddamn prostitute..”

“Ri, that was before I saw you in Starbucks and we went for lunch. I felt awful for doing that, but he is engaged anyway... we put all that behind us. We had closure...” Smirking at Drake, Riley was too emotional to realise this- Liam knew it would get under his skin that he went for lunch with her. Hoping that this little ‘confession’ would fill Drake with jealousy and rage.

“I am not fucking engaged!”

“Does it fucking matter who’s engaged or not? Does it matter what I fucking do for a living? Why can’t you all just let me live my life? I was thinking about your daughter in all of this Liam, and all you do is fucking screw me over.. continue to fucking break my heart...”

“I’m sorry. I am grateful for you thinking about Alice. Have you made a decision about the offer that I offered you all those weeks ago in Times Square?”

“Go to hell, Liam.”

*****

Maxwell followed Riley, out of all the friends he believed that he was the closest to her- the one who’s daft antics would make her smile instantly.

“Are you okay?” Knowing this was an idiotic question to ask, he didn’t know why he asked her- grabbing the ice out of his cocktail, he rubbed it against swollen hand.

“Yeah.. my hands killing though...”

“You really should quit the bar work and become a professional boxer.” Max pretended to throw some punches towards her.

“Me the professional boxer and you the professional dancer. You totally showed off in front of all those dancers in Times Square.” Doing a re-enactment Of his dance moves from that night, she threw her back laughing.

“Of course I would, they were all amateurs... when Maxwell Beaumont is around no one has a chance... so what do you think about Bartie? Is he a Beaumont or a Walker?”

“Definitely a Walker looks wise, but that can change. Hopefully he takes after his uncle’s rather than his serious father.” Impersonating Bertrand, Maxwell nearly fell over laughing. Pulling her into a hug, he held her tightly- he had missed her.

“What are you laughing about?” Leo asked, as he is put his arms around Riley’s waist and kissed her on the cheek.

“Ask Riley to show you her impression of Bertrand... I’m going to steal a cuddle from my nephew- I need to win the best uncle award.”

“How are you? I’ve missed you.”

“I’m fine, I’ve missed you too. How are you?”

“I’m good. It’s good to see you. Even when you are acting like the hulk...”

“He deserves it... what is he even doing here?”

“He paid for the venue, as usual. But I had my little input...”

“The flower arrangements?”

“How did you guess?”

“Well when you bought me flowers, they were beautiful.”

“I should become a florist? A beautiful bouquet for a beautiful girl. You deserve it. Love ya Ri.”

“Charmer... love ya too.”

****

Leo had left her alone, walking towards the bar, she ordered a drink- staring vacantly into it, she wasn’t sure why she was even here still. Drowning her sorrows, she felt like she was back at the Crowne plaza- the drinks were disappearing far too quickly.

“Hey.”

“Hi.”

“I’m sorry about what Liam did, as well as my family...”

“Don’t be. Congratulations on becoming a uncle.” Ordering him a drink, their hands touched as they both went to pay the bar man- the warmth of the touch lingered around their bodies. Quickly creating a distance again, Drake was desperate to pull her into his arms- but decided against it, especially with the mood she was in.

“Thanks. He’s amazing. I can’t wait to teach him a few things. I saw you holding him before, you’re a natural.” That could have been us, you holding our baby.

“I’ve already been told.” That could have been us. You talking about teaching our son or daughter about things.

“Don’t be drinking me under the table again, you know how one drink turns into two then into three before you know it. You don’t want a stinking hangover.”

“You know I can handle my hangovers. You don’t need to worry about my head.”

“I worry about you. I care about you. I love you.” Opening her mouth, she wanted to talk to Drake- civilly, but didn’t know where to start.

“Come on you two, B and Savannah are about to make an announcement...” Maxwell dragged the two of them towards the mini stage. Riley could feel Drakes eyes on her more than the star of the show, his own nephew.

“Riley, before the speech begins I want a private word with you. Savannah will talk and talk - so quick, follow me.” Following Bertrand, He led her to the bathroom- shutting the door, she was confused by his actions- until realisation sunk in as he pulled the object out of his pocket.

“Here, I think you should take this.”

“I’m not pregnant B. It was the seafood.”

“You looked like shit last night. Please.” Taking the test, she knew it would shut him up. Not knowing why he was insisting that she took a test. Peeing on the stick, she hid it in her bag wrapped around some tissue. Re-entering the room, Savannah gestured for Bertrand to join her on stage.

“Sorry for arriving late, I apologise if I repeat anything that has already been said. I’d like to thank you all for coming here today, our friends and family- we appreciate all the support....” the alarm went off on Riley’s phone, panicking that she was disturbing the speech- her hand was shaking as she tried to cancel it. Bertrand looked at her, knowing what the alarm was. Riley swiftly removed herself from the crowd, turning her back- she looked at the result. Covering her mouth, she wished that she had kept her legs closed- turning around she couldn’t look at the father instead she just nodded towards Bertrand hoping that he would understand the gesture. Clearing his throat, he quickly finished off his disastrous speech, knowing that she needed his support especially due to him forcing it upon her.

“Anyway, thank you for all the gifts. Thank you. Thanks...” Running off stage he followed Riley who was lingering at the door- still in shock. Still not knowing how to handle the situation.

“Was I correct?”

“I need to go. I didn’t get Bartie a present I wasn’t sure what he needed. Here, just take this money and get whatever you need. Thank you for inviting me.”

Bertrand, I need your assistance. Savannah shouted attempting to gain his attention- realising that he wasn’t aware that everyone was overhearing his conversation with Riley through the microphone.

I’ll only be a second Savannah, darling.

“Riley!”

“What?”

“Tell me... I am always here for you... you are like my little sister.” Passing him the test, she didn’t care if he was touching something that had her urine smeared all over it.

“I’m pregnant. Happy?” Savannah’s eyes widened, as everyone else’s did as they all turned to face the people who were oblivious that their conversation wasn’t private and was in fact public.

“Darling... you left the microphone on. We heard everything...”

“Bertrand! You fucking dipshit....” still in shock with the result - possibly denial, she just wanted leave. This whole event had been a disaster from her point of view. As the father walked over to her, along with the others- she looked at each of the men. Fuck. This is not happening. He will want to keep the baby. Can I trust him?

“Is the baby mine? Is Alice having a sibling?”

[bebepac]

I posted 2,444 times in 2021

188 posts created (8%)

2256 posts reblogged (92%)

For every post I created, I reblogged 12.0 posts.

I added 3,542 tags in 2021

#bebepac writes - 1263 posts

#self reblog - 1047 posts

#trr au - 259 posts

#mia's world - 194 posts

#just the way you are - 167 posts

#the life of riley - 157 posts

#trr fanfic - 119 posts

#evil drake - 116 posts

#liam x riley - 112 posts

#six sentence sunday - 108 posts

Longest Tag: 87 characters

#i’d have died of embarrassment if that’d been me at the dealership ahaha poor jaiden 😂

My Top Posts in 2021

#5

King Liam Claus 🎅

This is my submission for the 12 days of Fictmas hosted by @emichelle​ and @leelee10898​  which I drew day 4 “cookies for santa.”   which will be used in two different ways here, thanks to @dcbbw​ @12daysofficmas​

This also contains @wackydrabbles​​ prompt # 123 “I don’t feel so good”  which will appear in bold.

This chapter takes place in my The Days The Earth Stood Still flip realm, where Liam and Riley do wind up together, and William grows up with Liam in his life.  If you’re curious about that story line please click:  The Days The Earth Stood Still

The book:  TRH

Pairings:  Liam x Riley

Word Count:  1994

Ratings:  PG

Warnings:  a little sexual innuendo. that’s it.  This is pure fluff. 

William and mentions of the Brooks’ family are my own characters, all others belong to Pixelberry.

Song Inspiration:  Silent Night by the Temptations.

I don’t own rights to the music

Original Post Update: 12/4/21 at 10:32AM EST.  

See the full post

94 notes • Posted 2021-12-04 15:32:11 GMT

#4

The Rotten Apple 🍎: Part 3

I am participating in @wackydrabbles​ prompt # 121 Use Your Words which will appear in bold. Because Ellie is who she is, she uses the prompt twice.  #i cant with this chick.

This continues on!!!!!  To catch up on what you’ve missed so far please click:

The Rotten Apple 🍎

The Book:  TRH/TRF (Future Ellie Rys Walker) Pairings:  Liam x Riley / Ellie x ?)  Word Count: 1533 Warnings: Profanity, mention of past sexual experience.  Attempted stabbing sort of... You’ll see. Rating: PG-13

Nico is my own character, all others belong to PB, though I REALLY want to take credit for Ellie cuz this chick is only inspired by PB in name only.

Song Inspiration for this chapter: Hold Me, Thrill Me, Kiss Me, Kill Me by U2:

I don’t own rights to the music.

Original Post Update: 11/20/21 at 7:27PM EST.

See the full post

95 notes • Posted 2021-11-21 00:26:58 GMT

#3

The Rotten Apple 🍎

So.... I did a thing.

I never thought I would be adding to this story-line but here we are.  I came up with a random idea yesterday.  This is a one off from the first series I ever completed.  Their Hidden Pain.  It is a very dark series, with a particularly Evil Drake. 

There are two differences with this one shot.  1. Liam did not kill Drake here for what he did to Riley and the other women, but instead sentenced Drake to life in prison, and 2. Like my alternate ending, in this AU, Liam and Riley find out Ellie’s true paternity when Ellie is five years old.  

I am writing this for @speedyoperarascalparty​​​​ creepy campfire tales. 

This is a teaser of what is to come.

I tagged previous people who were reading the Their Hidden Pain story line as they might find this interesting and my usual suspects .

Original Post: 10/14/21 at 9:30PM EST. 

See the full post

101 notes • Posted 2021-10-15 01:31:48 GMT

#2

The Rotten Apple 🍎: Part 2

Yep.  I slipped down this rabbit hole again, with another part to this.  I have absolutely no idea how this is going to go, or where I’m going with it to be honest.  So I’m just going with it.  

This continues my previous part of The Rotten Apple  that was part of @twinkleallnight​ happy birthday Drake bash, in which I reintroduced my Evil Drake back to the Tumblrverse.  Well Drake’s back with his poisonous fruit.  

My evil Drake is first revealed in my first series I wrote, called Their Hidden Pain.  It’s a very dark story line that differs  from this  because Liam does not kill Drake is this spin off but imprisons him for life in the palace jail.  Ellie as in my alternate ending is Drake’s biological daughter and not Liam’s.  

I am participating in @wackydrabbles​ prompt # 119 “Stop pinning this on me”  which will appear in bold,  since I was unable to finish this last week, it also has prompt # 118 in it “I didn’t think you were into that.” which will also appear in bold.

The Book: TRF

Pairings:  Liam x Riley /  Ellie x ? 

Word Count: 1997

Warnings: Profanity, Insinuation of sexual experience, grief, drinking to excess, mental illness.

Rating: PG13

Summary:  Ellie must hide the evidence of Nicolai’s murder, and concocts an elaborate plan to bring another to her side.  Drake comes face to face with his daughter and has some things to say about her behavior. Nico continues grieving for his son’s death.  

Nico, Damon, and mentions of Nic are my own characters, all others belong to Pixelberry.

A/N:  I use the CCH again here, which is the Cordonia Coastal Highway.  

Original Post Update: 11/6/21 at 5:10PM EST. 

See the full post

102 notes • Posted 2021-11-06 21:09:32 GMT

#1

MILESTONE ALERT⚠️

Original Post Update: 11/10/2021 at 7:51PM EST.

So this happened! I promised a milestone surprise today and whoop there it is.

See the full post

129 notes • Posted 2021-11-11 00:51:13 GMT

Get your Tumblr 2021 Year in Review →

[sfb123]

1, 4, 17, 19, 25 ... I might have guessed at some of those numbers. Love you!!

Love you more! 😘

1. favorite fic you wrote this year

This one is tough, considering everything I’ve ever written (minus one story) was written this year. I really want to say Sapere Aude because it was literally the second thing I ever wrote, and I’m really proud of myself for finishing such a huge undertaking as a new writer. 

But I think the actual answer is Another Man’s Treasure. That one was really difficult for me, and I spent a lot of time going back and forth on whether or not it would ever actually see the light of day. In the end, I think it was important for my Riley’s character development to tell that story. 

4. total number of words you wrote this year

I was dreading, yet also hoping for this question. I didn’t want to have to do the math, but I was curious to know. 

I did do the math, and according to the word counts on all the fics I posted this year (ATOC excluded), it was 122,622. 

17. fics you’ll continue next year

So I’ve been all about the one shots lately, which means there isn’t much spill over into 2022. HOWEVER, I will be revisiting the Sapere Aude world for a sequel, which I will start working on as soon as I catch up on the reading and reblogging that I’ve been horrible about lately. 

Even though it’s not a fic so it technically doesn’t count, I do want to bring A Taste of Cordonia back. I know I’ve said that a million times, and never actually done it, but I am for real now. TRF is over, and I miss Liam, so I’m going to have to go back and start all over again. 

...and of course, since it’s you asking, Uncle Drake will be back in all his glory. I have a couple of ideas in my head (and an ask that’s been sitting around for way too long), it’s just a matter of actually writing them. 

19. any new fics to start next year

I have a couple of new fic ideas (including the above sequel I have already mentioned). I have an AU that I started a million years ago, and really want to dig into. 

25. a fic you read this year you would recommend everyone read

Man, this is one of the hardest questions on here, because I’ve read SO many good ones (many of which belonged to you, my darling friend)! 

I think I’m going to have to give this one to @kat-tia801 and her series, Temptation. I am pretty picky about AUs that eliminate the royalty aspect of TRR, but I was obsessed with this story from beginning to end. 

fanfic end of the year asks

[curiousconch]

9, 22, 29, 33, 48 & 50. Sorry for soo many questions but i’m too curious 🤍

@made-of-roses no worries! I'm in the mood for answering 😊😊😊

9 - What are your favorite fanfics?

I answered this earlier, but I'll add more fic recs.

I'm currently in love with Temptation by @kat-tia801 (TRR AU) and I'm excited to read @eleanorbloom's Moonlight series (OH - Bryce).

22 - Do you listen to music during your writing process? What music do you listen to while you’re writing?

When I'm trying to get in the mood, yes. I actually build spotify playlists after I'm done drafting an outline. As for the genre, it's very mixed. Just find my Chase You/Chase Me series playlist and it's chaotic.

I'll listen to it before, but not during writing, if that makes sense.

29 - What’s more difficult? Fanfics or original work?

I think it's more difficult to write original work - specifically a long one. When you write your own original characters and universe, you'll need solid world building talent to execute it correctly. AU's kinda work this way too, minus the established personalities of pre-existing characters. I hope that makes sense?

33 - Do friends and family know that you write fanfics?

Yes, my hubs knows. But he hasn't read any of my works (yet). He read some of my early essays and short stories though.

48 - What is your favorite sentence that you’ve used in a fanfic?

I don't recall much, but below are some of the most memorable ones for me:

And as the light of the dawn broke and found its way through the bedroom’s window, finally, their paths collide. (The Moments in Between Pt. 3)

And now with their hearts finally out in the open, their tracks carved into the thin sheet of snow, unveiling the lush greens of the grass hidden beneath, eager to leaving what’s behind, together. (Ricochet AU - Rose Colored Glass)

50 - Can we get a teaser for an upcoming chapter?

I'll post another section for Sunday six, but here's the same snippet from a previous ask 😉

Chase You/Chase Me (Pt. 6)

Alex relinquished her phone as she read the message Tyler's PI friend sent her. She felt compelled to run the information by Gabe, but he was off the grid since this morning.

Fuck it, I'll leave a voice message.

Before Alex can dial his number, she heard a knock on her hotel room door. She tightened the bath robe she was wearing, not bothering to check who it is.

Her jaw fell to the floor when she saw a disheveled Gabe leaning on her threshold.

[the-everlasting-dream]

# 17 from the smooches list. But you choose the victims.

17. Needing to kiss to hide from the bad guys. 

A/N: Thanks for the ask @likethetailofacomet x This would take place in my TRR x TH:M crossover AU series. It got long so I put a cut in. 

FYI: Blaze is my THM M!MC and Elizabeth is my TRR MC

-

Blaze always knew when he was being followed, there was a change in the air, a twist in his stomach and a pull of anticipation that would make his eyes slide up, hair on the back of his neck prick up just the slightest. 

Scanning the busy town square, he took stock of one, two guards hovering in the corners, they hadn’t seen him yet and they wouldn’t. So close to their meeting spot with [REDACTED], he couldn’t risk being discovered. Usually when things looked like they were gonna take a turn south, he’d slip into the shadows of the dying sun, using the naturally ingrained charm to hustle his way out of a situation. It was that - and a lot of planning - that had gotten him this far in life. 

It was easy when he was alone, unnoticeable in plain clothes, an outfit constructed perfectly to be forgettable so when people attempted to recall it, it would only come up as a blank. Another trick of a good thief. 

The pressure on his arm reminded him that he wasn’t alone. Glancing down at Elizabeth’s worried face, pretty features screwed up in anxiety, the tension in his body only seemed to build. 

Bringing the most popular Duchess of Cordonia with him was a dangerous gamble with devastating consequences if he was caught. But IF he wasn’t, the pay off would be just as high, or higher. He almost regretted bringing her in to the dangerous game he used to play for fun. This wasn’t her world, it was his. There was no room for a good person like her, where her kindness and generosity would only have been laughed at in a room of people that wouldn’t hesitate to kill ruthlessly. 

But he had to. She’d insisted, demanded even. The group they were meeting had insisted too. This was the plan after all. Seduce the duchess, gain her trust and with it sensitive information about the Cordonian royalty so they could set the bigger wheels - his revenge being one of them - in motion. 

And it had worked perfectly. A little too perfectly. He sure as hell wasn’t expecting to fall in lo-

The pressure on his arm tightened as Blaze heard Elizabeth gasp softly. He followed her gaze to see a new group of Cordonian guards - the Kings Guard - enter the square, casting sweeping gazes across the area, clearly in pursuit. And at the head of the group was..

‘Drake..’ Elizabeth breathed, her body seizing up at the sight of her estranged husband, the first stages of panic already setting in and if he didn’t do something soon, their lives and everything he had ruined for this would be at risk. 

‘Hey, hey,’ he pulled them behind a vendor’s cart, turning her in his arms to face him. ‘You trust me right?’

Her deep brown eyes - the one’s he could never resist - settled on him, fear and panic etched clearly on her irises. Ever since he’d told her in half truths and semi lies the reason for his presence in Cordonia, that pure trust she’d had in him from the beginning had began to fade steadily. The look in her eyes now, it was the look of someone who was slowly beginning to realise that everything they knew to be normal had a darker, uglier side where survival was never guaranteed. Her faith had been shaken and if he could, he would have taken her away from all of this, she didn’t deserve to be caught up in any of it, but once those words had fallen from his lips that night when she’d confronted him, a solemn understanding had passed between them that nothing would be the same again. 

‘Do you trust me?’ Blaze repeated, his blue eyes burning into hers as the hairs on the back of his neck began to raise in warning of their impending pursuers. He was taking yet another gamble with this, she could easily wrench herself out of his grip or scream and the guards would descend on them like an avalanche and everything he had worked for would come crashing to ruins. He was banking on the fact that in all that they’d said, all that they’d done and shared would pull through for him in the end and she would still agree to go through with this most crucial part of the plan. 

Elizabeth’s eyes flicked from his to above his shoulder where he was sure the sight of the Guard was visible and drawing nearer. He fought against temptation to follow her gaze, keeping it centred completely on her as this moment, their fates and everything connected were entirely in her hands. 

Her eyes slid back to his, locking for one extended second, long enough to for doubt to worm in his chest that this might actually be the end for hi-

‘I do.’

Blaze wasted no time, yanking her into a nearby alley way, barely giving her time to gasp before his lips descended upon hers. She let out a grunt of surprise but didn’t stop him. In her kiss, he could taste her doubt, her inner conflict, the stunning realisation that this was her reality now and in saying yes, she had set herself on a path she could never return from. 

From somewhere behind them, nearer now, Drake’s voice could be heard, giving orders to search the square for the dangerous assailant that had kidnapped his wife. Blaze’s hands tightened on her waist, deepening their kiss as he pulled her close, the footsteps of a Guard clicking closer on the cobblestones to their hiding place. 

Public displays of affection make people uncomfortable.  

Blaze pressed himself closer to Elizabeth whose arms were coming up to wind around his neck, for show or for real he couldn’t tell, ignoring the hammering of both their hearts against their chest pressed tightly against each other. He heard the Guard give out a puff of disapproval before his standard issue uniform shoes clicked away. 

Blaze pulled back from the kiss, still keeping the duchess close in his arms, ears finely attuned to the sounds of the Guards retreating while his eyes searched hers. 

The full gravity of what they were risking seemed to have finally hit Elizabeth. He’d always been able to read her well, part of the reason why he’d fallen for her, she made no care to hide her feelings and desires especially when she felt strongly. Now she stared back at him with a look mixed with grave understanding, panic and something he couldn’t quite read. 

Blaze could only hope that something wouldn’t be the thing that brought this all down on them.. 

-

Tags:  @choicessa , @mariamulroney , @drakewalkerwhipped , @thewolvesss ,  @mfackenthal , @srawesleyghuewrites , @topsyturvy-dream , @enmchoices , @gardeningourmet @debramcg1106 , @alesana45 , @meladoridarcy, @blackcatkita , @tmarie82 , @annekebbphotography , @lizk77 , @jayjay879 , @tornbetween2loves , @akrenich , @theroyalweisme , @likethetailofacomet , @sleepwalkingelite , @littleblossom-18 , @ooo-barff-ooo , @drakewalker04 , @mkatschoicesblog , 

TRR only: @speedyoperarascalparty , @carabeth , 

 Drake: @fairydustandsarcasm , @drakewalkerisreal

[innerpostmentality]

Missing You

A TRR AU Fanfic Featuring King Liam X Hyclea (OC) All rights to Choices Characters and setting belong to Pixelberry Studios   This is set at the Bachelor / Bachelorette party in Las Vegas of Drake and Stephanie.  This is the third piece of this series. Links to the other pieces are on my masterlist. Word count: 2300 or so                          Rating: PG - 13 Warnings: None I can think of Tags: @tornbetween2loves @stopforamoment @hopefulmoonobject @kennaxval @carabeth @darley1101 @custaroonie @gardeningourmet

Yeia sas, Liam I am sad that I must decline your invitation to join you and your friends in Las Vegas. Your invitation was most kind and delighted me that you should wish me there. I simply have too many deadlines at the moment to make adequate arrangements to allow me to accompany you. Perhaps when you return we may play hooky again and you can tell me of your adventure? I should like that very much. All best wishes and joy to you and your friends,

Hyclea   Liam read the note again. He felt very strange reading it. He wanted her there with him. He’d thought about walking the strip hand in hand with her, holding her watching the Bellagio fountain show, having her blow on his dice for luck, kissing her at the top of the High Roller as the sun set… Now, now he would have a weekend of watching Stephanie and Drake be happy together. He was happy for them. But he knew he would rather be running off to Tevi’s to sip coffee and get lost in violet eyes.   The next day they were on their way to Vegas. 

  Drake had been watching Liam who had been very quiet and distracted ever since he first saw him that morning. He kept pulling a piece of paper out of his pocket and fiddling with it before putting it back in his pocket and looking out the window. He’d pulled his phone out several times and texted or started to text before putting it back. Finally Drake leaned over and whispered to Stephanie, “Watson, something’s up with Li. I’m gonna go take him a drink and see what spills.” She nodded and looked in Drake’s concerned chestnut eyes before kissing him sweetly. “I agree. Good luck.” A glass of Scotch appeared in his peripheral vision as he was staring out the window and Liam looked up to see Drake handing him the drink. “Hey, mind if I join you?” Liam motioned at the seat across from him and gave his friend a smile as he took the drink. “Your company is always welcome.” Drake smiled at him. “You okay, Li? You seem really distracted this morning.” He nodded and pinched the bridge of his nose. “Yes. My apologies. I didn’t mean to ignore people.” “You don’t need to apologize. We’re fine. Are you okay? You’ve been really quiet and.. Well I know this has to be hard.” Drake sipped his drink, dropping his eyes. “I…” Drake trailed off. He couldn’t say he was sorry. He wasn’t sorry Stephanie had picked him. 

Liam’s eyes got wide and he grinned as he realized what Drake was attributing his quietness to. He shook his head and chuckled sipping the Scotch. “It’s not what you think Drake.” Their eyes met and Drake could see Liam was being completely honest with him. He nodded, relieved. “Okay. Well then what is going on Li?” Liam gave him a small smile. “I met someone.” Drake nearly dropped his drink. “What?!” Liam shook his head. “Well she said no to joining us on this little excursion.” “What?!!... Wait. She knows you’re the King right?” Liam grinned and nodded. “She’s aware.” “Let me get this straight. You met a woman you liked enough to invite her along to Vegas with us and she turned you down? And she knows you’re the King? And she turned you down? Take your crown and private jet and toddle off fly boy, turned you down?” Liam nodded one brow raised. “I think you are too amused by this.” Drake shook his head. “I’m fuckin’ speechless about this. So are you going to see her when we get back? Is that who you’ve been texting? When do we get to meet this enigma?” Liam was blushing. He knew there would be a reaction. He just wasn’t quite prepared for this now. “I don’t know, Drake. I know I want to see her.” He shook his head. “She’s not like anyone else I’ve ever met. I know that sounds cliché. But it’s true.” Drake’s eyes narrowed as he studied his friend who was completely smitten as far as he could tell. “Okay. Has Bastien run a background check on her?” Liam’s eyes went wide, “Drake!” “He has, hasn’t he?” Drake sipped his Scotch continuing to study Liam like a bug on a pin. “Did she answer your text?” Liam shook his head. “I won’t know before we land.” “Okay. Well how did you meet?” “Is this going to be twenty questions? Listen can you do me a favor? I want you all to meet her. I do. But I really don’t know all the answers right now Drake. And I really, really don’t want to spend your whole bachelor party answering questions about my possible relationship. You know how this goes. I’ll wind up like a duck on a roasting spit with my friends; each pulling me aside for a private conversation that will have me answering the same questions that I don’t have answers to with each of you.” Drake nodded, and sipped his Scotch. “Fair enough. But I want to meet this lady of yours. And congrats man.” Standing he returned to his seat next to Stephanie. Liam pulled his phone from his pocket to sneak a glance.   1 New Message He quickly opened his messages, Liam: Wish you were here.

You are most kind. Thank you.   :Hyclea He quickly texted her back:  Drake was worried about me. I told him I had invited you but you couldn’t make it. He sent the message off and waited a few minutes before putting his phone back in his pocket. When they landed in Vegas he checked his phone again:  1 New Message There was a short video attached. The end of a one inch diameter piece of pipe with a brightly glowing blob of molten glass that moved like jello was pulled from the glory hole of the furnace. The blob was deftly rolled across a metal plate that had small pieces of colored glass scattered across it picking them up on its sticky surface before being put back in the glory hole for a moment. Then it was pulled back out and the pipe was braced in a V on a stand where it was turned constantly as it was blown. A wet wooden block was used to shape the glass. It was returned to the glory hole for a few moments then pulled out again and a pair of what looked like huge tweezers was used to detach the glowing hot piece from the blow pipe. Then deftly the top edge was fluted out like a lacy collar, before the whole piece was carefully rubbed with thick pads and smoothed out before being put in an annealing oven to cool. 

Then the camera pulled back and Hyclea waved with her thick gloves and leather apron on, just lifting the furnace goggles enough he could see her violet eyes. “It’s all work here. Hope you’re having fun!” She waved and the video cut out.

Liam grinned and quickly texted: It would be more fun if you were here. Then he watched the video again as they were riding to the hotel. The evening went well he thought. The magician was nearly as entertaining as watching his friends on stage. The scavenger hunt was fun.

There was one awkward, cathartic moment with Olivia. Since Stephanie had picked Drake, Olivia had been trying to comfort him. He’d resisted the temptation at first because he knew what an emotional mess he was. And he did love her; but only as a friend. He knew she wanted more. He knew even though she didn’t, that she deserved more than he could ever give her. She deserved someone who chose her above all others not use her selfishly as a consolation prize. The night he’d been drinking in the bar overlooking the capitol he’d been contemplating exactly that when Hyclea walked up to him with a glass of Glenfiddich and turned his world over.

 So after everyone had enjoyed multiple rounds of their favorite libation and Olivia’s hand had slipped to his thigh he took her hand and kissed the back of it and stood. He stroked her cheek and smiled at her; then leaned in and whispered softly in her ear. “I’m fine, Olivia. And I will always love you as one of my best friends in the world. But that is how I will Always love you, as my friend. I need you to be my friend, not my lover, not my mate. In my heart you are my sister. And I cannot give you what you deserve.” He pulled back and looked in her glorious eyes, tilting her chin up his voice was a gentle caress, “You are going to be okay, Olivia.”

He started to leave and Stephanie came up to him. “Hey. Have you got a minute?” Nodding, he offered his arm. “Would you like to take a little walk? I thought I would catch a little fresh air before turning in.” She slipped her arm through his and walked with him outside where the desert breeze held a distinct chill and the millions of lights on the strip obliterated the stars from the sky. They walked along the strip in silence for a few minutes and he could tell that Stephanie was working through something she wanted to tell him. “You’re the very best you know. And I’ll always love you.” She finally blurted. “I’m so sorry I couldn’t find the way to tell you before, before you proposed to me that I’d fallen in love with Drake.” She shook her head. “I didn’t mean to. But it happened. And you’ve been so wonderful. It’s just I love you more like a friend than a spouse if you know what I mean? I just wanted to apologize for hurting you, Liam. You really deserve everything.” He smiled softly and patted her hand on his arm. “Stephanie, I’m okay.” He put his finger under her chin and lifted it so she was looking in his eyes. “Seriously. I’m not sure I could have honestly told you that last week. But as I stand here now it’s true.” She searched his eyes and saw a beautiful serenity in the dark depths. She nodded and stretched up on her tip toes to kiss his cheek. “Good!” Liam walked her back into the casino and left her with Drake, shaking Drake’s hand and kissing Stephanie on the cheek before bidding them good night. At the penthouse suite he nodded to his guards bidding them good evening and telling them he was retiring for the night. He stripped down and slipped on black silk pajamas bringing his phone to the bed with him. His phone said it was two in the morning. It was going to make the 8am departure in the morning brutal. But he couldn’t help himself. He knew that it was noon back home; he smiled as he called her. He smiled even wider when her velvet tone caressed his ear. “Ya, Liam! What’s up?” She laughed softly, “Besides you, that is.” There was a whole flock of butterflies doing the Cordonian waltz in his stomach. “Hey… I was just wondering if I might make a breakfast date with you? If I’m calculating correctly I think I may be home just about the right time for catching some coffee and Orange walnut sticky buns at Tevi’s with you. If you want, that is?” Her laugh was like cool water to a man dying of thirst and he thought if he could just lie there listening to it all night it would be hours well spent. “Liam, it must be what, 2am there? And you’re calling me about sticky buns?” He chuckled. “Well when you put it that way it does sound a bit inappropriate. Honestly I’ve just been missing you all day. I was about to go to sleep and realized that it would be around noon there and thought I’d take a chance on calling and perhaps catching you when you were at lunch.”

 “Umm, well you managed. How was the party?” The next several minutes, well maybe more than several he spent telling her about the day. The antics of his friends and the beauty and bizarre nature of Las Vegas. He got up and walked over to the picture window that looked down across the glowing strip and took a picture and sent it to her. There was silence for a minute then she breathed, “Beautiful.” He was quiet for a moment then softly. “I do, truly, miss you. A dozen times, no more, there were so many times today I wanted to hear you tell me what you thought of something. I wished you had been there to dance with me. To sample the brandied halibut I had for dinner.” There was silence on the other end of the line and he knew, could actually feel her violet gaze penetrating him, knew her brow was lifting as she thought about what he told her. Her voice was even lower than usual when she spoke, “And now? Were I there, this very moment with you. What would we share Liam?” Desire ignited the word drawn from his heart. “Dreams.”

[msjr0119]

One Temptation

Part 11

*This series is based on The Royal Romance characters who belong to Pixelberry - AU Plot switch*

Riley Brooks moves back to New York after leaving five years prior- struggling to get by in life she wanted to go home. After getting mugged, a woman and man come to her rescue and offer her a job at their strip club. A rich business man Liam Rhys is forced to visit the club as part of his bachelor party. What will happen that night?

Tags- I’m just tagging people who have previously commented or personally asked to be tagged.

If you want to be removed let me know 😊: @pedudley @kacie-0156 @loveellamae @annekebbphotography @ladyangel70 @kingliam2019 @bascmve01 @drakewalker04 @texaskitten30 @ibldw-main @kimmiedoo5 @walker7519 @lodberg @cmestrella @kozabaji @hopefulmoonobject @addictedtodrakefanfic @liamxs-world @rafasgirl23415 @notoriouscs @nz1091 @yukinagato2012 @seriouslybadchoices @rainbowsinthestorm @cordonianroyalty @jared2612 @princess-geek @desireepow-1986 @indiacater

Warnings: Swearing, smut, verbal abuse.

*****

“Is the baby mine? Is Alice having a sibling?” Remaining silent, she placed her hand over her stomach. Closing her eyes, she knew exactly who the father was- regret? Maybe? Running away, Liam remained stood dormant overthinking the situation- if she was pregnant with his child they would be the perfect family- the family that he had always imagined. Although he would never confess what he had done to his children.

Drake ran after her, he had supported her last time so believed that he was the best shoulder for her to cry on.

“What are you doing sitting on the floor?” Noticing her sat on the kerb outside the hotel lobby, he knew she was upset- but didn’t realise that she was that upset to risk a cab running over her feet.

“I don’t know. I couldn’t stay in there. Maybe Bertrand and Savannah should have kept it as a family only invite. The baby shower, you punched him. Today I punched him- again. Now the whole of New York City will be thinking that I need to pay Maury a visit with Liam’s comment...” Referring to him assuming that the baby was his, she could imagine the headline on the Maury show ‘ex boyfriend cheats on me, impregnates the other woman. Then raped me years later. Now I’m pregnant and he believes that he is the father.’

“Liam would be able to support you both, he has the money to do that. Don’t ruin your second chance at being a Mom. I know he’s an arsehole, but that is your baby. I’ll support you as I did last time. I care about you too much to let you go through all of this alone. You also have Leo, Max and Bertrand. Please don’t abort another child. You’ll regret it again.”

“I’m not going to abort it. I can’t....”

“Good- I wouldn’t allow you to either, do you want me to take you home?” He interrupted her, thankful that she wasn’t going regret another decision.

“You didn’t let me finish what I was saying, Drake....”

“Sorry, what was you saying?”

“I’m not going to abort it. I can’t do it to us again.” Empathising the word ‘us’ Drake didn’t realise why- he just assumed that she meant her and the baby. “The baby isn’t Liam’s. After the rape, I had those tests done. They advised me to do a pregnancy test a month after- which I did and it was negative. I did another a week after that. The only person I’ve slept with is sat next to me. At your moms before I left and at the Crowne plaza...”

*****

Getting off the subway near Central Park, she was too punctual with her timings- not wanting to be stuck in the crowds waiting for him, she decided to have a stroll towards broadway and Times Square. It would be a fifteen minute walk, if she walked at a normal pace- knowing she would still be early, she would take her time.

Arriving at 7th Avenue, she was still too early to meet him. Noticing a group of people dancing, she paused as she watched Maxwell in the middle of them- Shaking her head, she should have known to expect him completing in such a thing. Forcing her way to the front of the crowd, she had time to support her best friend. Nearly having a heart attack, witnessing him do a back flip- she was relieved when he landed gracefully on two feet.

“Go, Maxi!” Hearing her voice, he wondered why she was there- leaving the troupe, he ran up to her- picking her up and swinging her around like a rag doll.

“Stranger! It’s good to see you!”

“I should have guessed that you’d be showing off. What are you doing here?”

“Well, I was due to meet Daniel for a drink, but I got distracted. You?”

“Erm, I’m meeting...” looking at the time, she needed to get her arse into gear and finish the brief reunion. “Max, I need to go. I’ll text you, we can meet up for a drink at some point?”

“Sounds like a plan.... I’ll text you tomorrow. Love ya!” Placing a kiss on her cheek, he returned to the circle - encouraging the crowd to join them.

......

Making her way further down the streets, she stopped abruptly causing the rush of people to ‘tut’ at her. Panic ran through her veins. Attempting to ignore the fact of who she had just seen, she had failed as his eyes locked onto hers - fuck, she murmured to herself.

“Riley!” Hearing his voice, she was trying desperately to get lost within the crowd until she felt his hand grip her arm.

“Liam, I’m actually really busy. I need to go.”

“As am I. I just wanted to say hi.”

“Hi. Goodbye.”

“Ri...” noticing that she couldn’t look at him, he knew he didn’t deserve it. “I came to the club when the police informed me about what you did, but you wasn’t there. I just want to say thank you.”

“I didn’t do it for you. I really need to go.”

“Before you do, I have a proposition for you... you seem to care about my daughter. This isn’t about us, I was going to ask you if you wanted to become her nanny, home school her. That way you could sort of get your dream job of being a teacher.”

“She has a nanny.”

“Yes she does, but Alice idolises you. I will buy you an apartment, pay you a good wage.” He is unbelievable. Fuck off liam.

“No thank you. Bastien is trying to gain your attention, a man in a suit is stood with him. See you around Liam.”

“Just consider it, please. I’ll Erm, text you or something?” Riley got her phone out as she left him, furious that he would even consider this- she knew Liam, and she knew that he would use his daughter as an excuse to get close to her. Li 💕 - forgetting that she had kept the love heart emoji next to his name all these years - she edited his name to ‘piece of shit’ then blocked him.

........

Riley made her way to the location where they had arranged to meet. Pausing as she got closer to him, she took a deep breath- and counted to ten. It’s going to be okay.

“Hi.” She said nervously as she tapped him on the shoulder.

“Hello. I didn’t think that you’d come. I got you these. You deserve everything and more.” Smelling the flowers, the scent surrounded them filled her senses.

“They are beautiful, thank you. So what do you need to talk about?”

“You. Me. Us.” Riley furrowed her eyebrows at the man stood in front of her.

“I don’t have time to be sentimental. I just want to look forward to my future- the last week or so I’ve been the happiest I’ve been in a long time.” Looking down towards the floor, he knew exactly what she was referring to. Feeling like she had stabbed him directly in the heart- all he could do was try to cheer her up. He didn’t want her to runaway again. Not knowing if he would be able to find her this time.

“I’ve booked a room in the Crowne Plaza, we can order room service- have a talk. I’ve missed you, it’s always been you. I... I love you. I just needed you to know.”

Ignoring the love, she put her hand in to his- this unexpected gesture formed a smile on his face

“Come on, I’m starving!” Internally scolding herself- she believed that she could cope with food then escape.

Walking through the lobby, he suggested having a few drinks at the bar before they headed up to the room. One drink, turned into two, turned into three- before she knew it she was staring at another empty glass. The alcohol had gone straight to her head- but her mind was still able to function, wondering what made her think it was a good idea to meet him in the first place. Wondering what other people would think. “Fuck it. Fuck them.” She muttered to herself. “More, please.” She slurred to the barmaid.

“I think you need to slow down.. have you actually eaten today?”

“No I haven’t. Don’t tell me what to do, please. You suggested ordering food, before we came here instead.”

“Ri....”

“Please don’t Ri me... you know life if shit. It sucks. There’s hope that it’ll get better, some days it does.. then some days it doesn’t...”

“I’m sorry. Come on, finish that then let’s get the food that was promised.”

Making their way upstairs, Riley stumbled but had the strong arms around her- supporting her, no matter how much anger she still had towards him, she was grateful. Opening the door, he immediately rung for room service knowing that she needed some food, making her a coffee this would also sober her up.

“Here, you don’t want a stinking hangover.” Smirking at him, she didn’t care about the hangover- she worked nights so would have time to recover. Accepting the coffee, she slowly slipped it.

“Thank you.” There was a moment of silence, he sat next to her- holding her hand. She had no energy to force him off of her- instead she turned her head towards him. Cupping her cheeks, he lent closer towards her- kissing her in a long lingering kiss- her drunk mind craved more. His gaze focused on her as he broke the kiss away- would she slap him across the face? Or punch him? Standing up, she bit her lip- turning to face him once more she held his gaze. A smile formed on his alluring mouth- don’t fuck this up, he thought to himself on repeat.

“You. Me. A hotel. Like old times eh? Shall we start over? My names.....” she placed a finger over his lips, as she lent down towards him and eventually straddled him.

“I know what your name is you moron. We have slept together before.” Pushing her away, he wanted to touch her more than anything.

“Ri... I’m on a break with Liv. I know you are still in love with Drake. He is madly in love with you. I saw him before, we went for a beer...” Seeing the disappointment creep up onto her face, he was unsure if it was due to his rejection or the mention of his name.

“You just said that you loved me... that you wanted to talk about ‘us’...I’m sorry I was abrupt when you said it, you’ve healed me once with heartbreak....”

“Riley, I’ve always loved you- since Florida. If there was a chance for us, I’d snap it up right here right now. But you don’t love me. It was just sex with no strings remember.... Drake.. he’s in love with you- wants a future with you, I could see the sincerity in his eyes and hear it in his voice.”

“I’m actually meeting someone on route, but thanks. See ya around Walker.”

“What time are you meeting the mystery lady?” Leo turned around, why is he assuming that I’m meeting a woman? Looking down towards the flowers, they were a huge giveaway.

“I am meeting Riley at half eleven...” Drakes heart sunk, hearing her name- knowing she had arranged to meet up with Leo, and had ignored his texts. Leo noticed Drakes sudden heartbreak written across his face.

“I’ll let you get off, you don’t want to keep her waiting. Tell her that I’m thinking about her, and that I’ll always love her...” Sighing, Leo knew that Drake did love her- believing that it was now time to talk as civil adults to hear his side of the story regarding his past. Give him a chance to explain.

“Walker, wait. Half the time she isn’t punctual, I don’t even know if she will actually show up. Why don’t we go for a beer? And you can explain what’s in that bag.”

Arriving at the Hard Rock Cafe, Leo wanted to be close to where he was meeting Riley incase he lost track of time then he could sprint to the location. Ordering them both a beer, Drake thanked him- not knowing how it was going to escalate. All he kept thinking about was Riley, as he had done ever since she had runaway from Texas.

“Is Riley okay?” Talking about the common factor between the two of them, he assumed it would break the awkward silence.

“Not really. Only had a few simple one worded texts off of her. You know when she left New York, there was only me who took time to try and find her. Spending that week with her, I fell in love with her every second I spent with her. At the time, I believed it was because we had been hurt by the same people. When you came on the scene, I knew that she was instantly attracted to you. So I never told her the truth. Why did you have to hurt her? She deserves happiness, she is the most caring person I’ve known- and every man she has been involved with has hurt her...”

“Leo, I love her too. She was carrying my baby- I didn’t want her to do that decision that she chose to. The woman that I was engaged to, it wasn’t love from my end. I agreed to the arrangement to help my family. Kiara’s father is rich, she had always told me that she loved me- she was suffocating- she stalked me everywhere. He offered to pay my family’s debts, to ensure that they kept their home- if I married her. I’d never fallen in love with any girl, so I thought why not? I believed that I would possibly fall in love with her eventually. But it just got worse as time went by. I broke off the engagement, I didn’t really care about the consequences and came here. Started a new life, made new friends- I thought I’d found the love of my life. I didn’t want to hurt her.” Leo sipped the beer, slowly- Drakes words slowly sinking in. They were both in love with the same woman- Leo was also in love with another. Olivia had realised that their was much more to his relationship with Riley- so they both agreed to have a break.

“So what’s in the bag then?” Drake nervously, took out the two boxes.

“If and when Riley ever spoke to me again, I thought I’d treat her, as an apology for the misunderstanding- the lack of communication from my end.” Opening the first box, there was a gold bracelet. Fuck me, I need to get a new job if he can afford things like that.

“This, this is a ring I sort of designed- a personal touch. My grandmother would be turning in her grave in she knew what I’ve done...” Explaining to Leo that he had the diamonds from his grandmothers ring removed and cleaned- the jewellery store added them to a band with a few extra diamonds. “Was you planning on proposing to her?”

“In the future, yes. But it all doesn’t matter anymore. She won’t respond to my texts or calls.”

“She’s a stubborn mofo. Can you love her more than I can?” Leo asked, Drake was confused by this question- not knowing if he knew the answer.

Leo reiterated what had happened when he had seen Drake, missing out the personal detail regarding the gifts as well as the future plans of a proposal.

“By the sounds of it, this Kiara is in love with him but he never loved her. He agreed to the proposal to help his family. He ended the engagement and moved here. When I bumped in to him, he had been somewhere to get you a gift. You need to talk to him...I’m always going to be here, I’m always going to protect you and love you.” Pulling her down towards him, he pressed his lips onto hers- the rest of his words that he was going to say were now lost against her mouth. He kissed her softly, his heart wanted more even after all this time. Breaking, the kiss, he stood up abruptly - leaving Riley confused with his actions.

And hold me while you wait

I wish that I was good enough (hold me while you wait)

If only I could wake you up (hold me while you wait)

My love, my love, my love, my love

Won't you stay a while? (Hold me while you wait)

I wish you'd cared a little more (hold me while you wait)

“Where are you going?”

Holding her in a tight hug, he stayed there a while- knowing there was no future for the two of them, not yet anyway. He was happy for her if Drake was the one. At this moment in time, all he wanted to do was hug her- but had something to do before they said goodbye.

“I’ll be back in a minute....”

......

Leo had been gone longer than a minute, Riley began picking at the food that he had ordered them. Sobering up gradually, she wasn’t sure if it was due to boredom or the food. Hearing the door open, she wanted to inform him that she was madly in love with Drake and apologise for allowing the kiss to happen.

“You said you’d be a minute, I know you flunked math but come on Leo. Surely know how to tell the time.... oh... Drake...”

“He flunked math? He said he was a smart ass at school, just wait until I see him...”

“How are you?” Changing the subject, she didn’t know what else to say- knowing the reason why Leo was longer than he said, she was sure this was his way of getting them both to talk.

“Better than you by the looks of it. You’re going to have a stinking hangover in the morning.”

“Leo said exactly those words too... alcohol is good for healing heartbreak....I just wish that you’d have warned me about your past before we went to your moms...” kneeling down beside her, he had hoped that he could talk to her openly- Leo had given them both this chance. Giving up his own happiness, to try and get them both together. Walker, go into the room- grab your girl. If you hurt her again- I’ll kill ya. Don’t let me down- prove that you can love her more than I could.

“I wish that I did, I didn’t tell you because it was over. That is the reason I left Texas...”

“I know, Leo told me.”

“I’m so sorry that you found out the way you did. If I believed it was going to cause problems, I’d have told you straight away. I didn’t want to lose you...I went back to Texas, I told them straight...”

“You don’t have to explain...”

“But I do. They were awful to you. It’s all my fault.” Seeing tears creep into his face, she stood up and led him over towards the bed. Sitting beside him, her eyes were beginning to leak too.

“Drake.. don’t cry please. People treat me like shit, I’m used to it.. I’m going to take it to my grave.” Shrugging her shoulders, she decided to make a joke out of her life- laughing, she wiped the tears away from his cheeks. “Can you take something else to your grave?” Riley was confused, Drake held both of her hands. Looking into her eyes, he would fight to win her back no matter how long it would take him. “I love you, can you please take my words to your grave with you. I know you probably don’t believe me- but I’m being honest. It will always be you. I’m going to go home. Enjoy your night with Leo...” Feeling as if she was some type of virus, that people were avoiding- she wasn’t going to allow another man to leave her without any explanation.

“Drake, don’t go...”

“Why?”

“I... I’ve.. for fuck sake Drake, I’ve missed you... I’m sorry I’ve ignored you.”

“I’ve missed you too, you’re the first and last thought of my day... I don’t blame you, but I wish you’d have talked to me.”

“You should know me by now, I get a thrill out of running away from my problems.”

“I better get you some baby reins then? Keep you close to me... I mean close to us... I mean... fuck. It was a joke, Ri. Just ignore me...”

“I wouldn’t mind being close to you...”

“I wouldn’t mind you being close to me Miss Brooks...” closing the distance between the two of them, he tilt her chin upwards- brushing his thumb over her lips, she closed her eyes. Leaning down, he gently placed his lips on to hers.

“Ri, I want you in my arms again. So much. But you’ve been drinking, I’ve had a couple...” she gazed at him, with her sparkling baby blues.

“Leo got me a coffee and food, I’ve sobered up a bit.” Looking at her with a sorrowful expression, she shook her head. “What the fuck do you want from me Drake?”

“I wanted you! I’ve always wanted you. You keep fucking shutting me out. I can’t do anything right with you can I?”

“Maybe you should have fucking warned me about an ex fiancée and the psychotic family that you have!”

“Maybe you should have fucking spoken to me rather than fuck off! We had sex, then poof you’re gone. As you always fucking do. You’re not the only one who’s fucking broken, Riley!”

“Oh yeah. Why are you broken Drake? Have you got a psychotic ex who raped you? Have you been attacked verbally by your boyfriends fucking family? Do you have people criticise you for what you do for a living?”

“I’m broken because the woman I love keeps shutting me out- but goes for a lunch date with the man who raped her, then drops the charges. Oh and she chose to kill my baby!”

“It wasn’t a fucking date! It was a quick lunch. Where he actually confessed what he did. I would never forgive him. I did what I thought was right about the baby- and everyday that goes by is proving that it was the right decision. You’re a fucking jerk. I’m going.” Grabbing her wrist, not allowing her to leave- he felt awful for the words that had been exchanged. Pinning her arm against the wall, no words were spoken- instead their facial expressions had a silent argument.

“You’re a fucking stubborn bitch, Riley Brooks.” Feeling his hot beer infused breath linger on her - she had also regretted the way she had spoken to him. All the anger let out in a full rage. Drakes mouth descended onto hers; not gently- but passionately and demanding. Both giving into the temptation, the desire that they had both been craving for weeks. His tongue brushed against her lower lip- waiting for permission to enter- both their tongues battled and curled around each other. Breaking the kiss, he rest his forehead against hers- still holding her wrist pinning her arm against the wall- he moved his hand into hers, intertwining their fingers.

“I’m sorry, Ri. I didn’t mean to say all of that...”

“I’m sorry too.” Leaning forward to kiss her neck, he released her arm which immediately went around his waist pulling him flush to her. Feeling like she was melting away with every touch he made along her neck and shoulders- she placed her hand under his shirt, feeling his toned body. Wanting to do more than feel- she was eager to see him, even though she was stubborn to ignore him for weeks she had deep down missed him. Removing his jacket and shirt in an urgent manner after feeling her touch his bare skin, he wanted to give her more access. Noticing her baby blues fixated towards his bulge- he gulped as her delicate fingers fumbled with his zipper and pulled it down- carefully pulling his manhood free from his boxers.

Her fingers wrapped around his cock, instantly they began sliding up and down over the tip of his shaft while her thumb circled his cock head. He instantly had a full erection, it wasn’t only he that had missed her. “Ri...”

“Shhh...” her eyes searched his, as she continued to rub him- smiling softly at him as he let out a low growl. “I’m close...” feeling the sensation of pleasure pour out of him- he arched his back as he orgasmed, Riley kept her eyes locked onto his as the hot sperm exploded into her hand.

“I’m sorry...” Referring to the mess in her in hands, he wished that he didn’t allow her to touch him like that.

“Don’t be, I instigated it.” Smiling at him, she made her way to the bathroom. Hearing the tap, he didn’t know what to do- watching his cock deflate like a popped balloon, he decided to put it away after quickly wiping it with a serviette. Sitting on the bed, he checked his phone quickly.

Well you haven’t begged to meet me. I assume it’s going well?

Sort of.

What you mean sort of?

It started off well, all the miss you’s- then we insulted each other.....

Oh fuck. Then what?

Then she jerked me off.

And I assume you are going to continue? Like, fuck her senseless? If not, I can do it. 🤔

No Leo. I’m not called you. If we have sex, it’s making up sex- not just a fuck. I appreciate what you’ve given up, for me. For her. I promise I’m not going to hurt her, and I’ll repay you somehow.

Don’t worry about it. Myself and Riley would have never worked out. Maybe I should have told her before? I’m happy for you both. If I get charged for your cum stains, you better cough up Walker. 😆

Leo, I don’t know what’s happening. I’ll pay you the money that you paid for the room. Deal?

Deal. Enjoy 😉

“Drake? Are you okay?" Asking as she returned from the bathroom - her blue eyes twinkling as she sat on the edge of the bed next to him.

Drake coming back to his senses, held her in his arms- wondering what was next for them. “Yeah, I’m fine. Thank you for ... you know...”

“You don’t need to thank me. I feel like I owe you more than a hand job, the way I ran out on you. The way I’ve ignored you.”

“You don’t owe me anything...”

Laying backwards, the soft feeling of her body pressed against his bare chest as she rest on him providing deep passionate kisses. Almost like deja vu, she sat up- releasing his cock again.

While her tongue slid all over the sensitive skin of his shaft, he drank in the sight of her - not knowing why he was allowing her to pleasure him yet again. Sucking the head of his cock between her soft lips, she began to run her tongue around the tip- looking up at him with those beautiful eyes of hers. Feeling the warm blood rushing to fill his rapidly growing member- it wasn’t deflated anymore. Drake quickly slipped from beneath her and rolled himself on to her before she had a chance to react. She was pinned lying on her back, as his dick nestled in between her legs.

“Drake? What the fuck?" Kissing her lips, his hands cupped her breasts- the fabric of her dress being a burden he wished that he could touch her bare skin.

“I want you to fuck me" she whispered close to his lips- smelling the strong scent of alcohol lingering on her breath he was in a dilemma. She seemed sober, sober enough to consent.

“I need you to be sure Ri. I want you to be sure. I don’t know what’s going on between us- I don’t know if you want what I want?”

This is you, this is me, this is all we need

Is it true? My faith is shaken, but I still believe

This is you, this is me, this is all we need

So won't you stay a while?

“I want you Drake, please... even if it’s just for tonight...” Just for tonight? I want you forever. Standing up, he discarded the remainder of his clothes- Riley stood up and did the same before laying back on the bed. Not wanting to jump straight into sex, as she asked for, he laid next to her- feeling her soft hands gently pumping up and down his member.

"Do you want this Drake?" Riley asked insistently. Nodding, she threw a leg over his body and began straddling him. Resting her hips on his thighs - her hand still rubbed his cock head, she was his drug- he was addicted, every touch made him want to cum again. Lifting her hips up, she guided him to her wet entrance. Placing her hands on to his chest, she slowly sunk her hips down, allowing for his cock to enter through the tightness of her sex.

"Oh Riley, I’ve missed you..." Drake barely moaned- watching her lift her body up, allowing his cock to slide almost out of her then settle back down.

“I’ve missed you too- I forgot how this felt... with you...." she moaned as his cock plunged back into her as she slid back down. Drake didn’t want her to do all the work, he couldn't resist anymore and forced his hips upwards, driving the last few inches of him into her warm walls.

She had asked for this and Drake was going to give it to her- not knowing what would happen afterwards, but he didn’t care at this moment in time. He was in a trance with her being so close to him again. Reaching his hands up, he cupped her breasts- tweaking at the buds whilst rapidly thrusting his hips up and down. "Oh my god. Yes... oh Drake..." Riley couldn’t contain her moans escaping from her lips, attempting to match his rhythm - she failed miserably. Leaning forward, she was practically laid on his chest as he continued thrusting inside of her.

“Cum for me baby...” He practically begged through gritted teeth.

“I am Drake... Yes!" she moaned. This encouragement, as well as the sudden trickle of her juices made his speed increase not knowing if he could go any faster. The orgasm was so strong that Drake felt her insides slowly contracting back and forth around him. Forcing her off of him, he slipped out- he was ready to cum but wanted to give her something. Spreading her legs, he licked up and down the length of her folds. Sucking her clit between his lips- flicking his tongue eagerly over the top of her pleasure spot- she screamed, unable to remain silent.

Removing his lips and tongue, Drake slowly made his way up her body- lining himself up the full length of his cock plunged into her- causing her back to arch as he resumed to penetrate her. Feeling the pleasure of his own orgasm building up inside of him- knowing he was close, he held onto her breasts as his load of warm cum shot up inside of her. His hands remained on her body as he continued to twitch inside of her.

“Is that what you wanted?” Drake asked sarcastically, as he removed himself out of her and laid next to her. Feeling as if he had ran a marathon with the rhythm of his breathing- he held her hand.

“Didn’t you?”

“Of course I did.”

“Well then.” Smiling softly at him, she rest her head onto his chest.

The morning after, Riley woke up before Drake- their limbs entangled together. They had sex a few more times, each time became more passionate. Not knowing how to feel about the previous night- she was unsure what it was. Was it another ‘one night stand’ between the two of them? Was it a move that would initiate their relationship again? Uncertainty ran through her mind. Regretting not using protection, even though she would be to blame with the persistence she had. Kissing him on the forehead, she got dressed- writing him a note on a serviette.

Drake, thank you for last night. I’ve got things to do, I’ll text you. Ri xo

Afraid that he may believe that it was a mistake, she knew it was best to just leave without saying a word.

******

“Drake? Say something. Please... you said more when you believed that the baby was Liam’s..”

“I’m sorry. I’m sorry that I’ve done this to you again...”

“It’s takes two to tango... do you want this baby?” Placing his hand over her stomach, he remained silent for a few seconds. Keeping his hand there, he looked up to face her.

“It’s all I’ve ever wanted, Ri. I wanted to keep the other one... “ Standing up, he helped her up- Pulling her into his embrace a smile finally crept onto his face.

“Shit Bertrand still has the test.... he’s holding my piss...” Laughing at her random comment, brought him out of his thoughts.

“Don’t worry about it. Bartie pissed and puked all down him yesterday...”

“Ah, so that’s why he wasn’t in his usual vest top attire when he came to see me... Drake, I was drunk that night in the hotel room before you arrived as you know. I was heartbroken still, I was ready to sleep with Leo- but he pushed me away.... he told me...”

“He told you that he loved you...” Riley nodded, feeling guilty- feeling like a slut giving herself to her friend that loved her more than a friend.

“If you feel the same about him, I want you to be happy. I’ll still support you with our baby...”

“Drake, I’ve slept with Leo and Maxwell in the past. Friends with benefits, with Max we was so drunk we cringed about it the morning after... I love them both, but the love is best friend love. I want to be with the father of my children. I love you, it broke my heart when I believed that you was engaged- I felt like a hypocrite, I felt like I did exactly what Madeleine did to me...”

“I love you too. Children? You mean child. We can work through this Ri.. move in with me and Max... quit work... I promised you that I’d look after you before and I am going to keep that promise...”

“I don’t want to quit work, I enjoy it. Gill has looked after me, she treats me well. Those weeks after we slept together, I spent a lot of time with her, she convinced me to talk to you- I don’t know why I avoided you? I can’t just leave her in the shit...”

“Ri, we are having a baby. A second chance for the both of us. I want us to live together, bring it up together... I want us to be a family...”

“Have you forgotten about Maxwell?”

“He won’t mind, until we get on our feet we can both live there... please. We will go back inside and tell him.”

****

Walking back inside, Drake placed his hand into hers- feeling nervous, in a way she was glad that Bertrand was persistent with her taking the test. However, she dread what the outcome from other people would be, especially Bianca and Leona.

“Sav, Mom, Aunt Leona...” Drake shouted for his family to come towards them. Praying that they would accept the news and welcome Riley into the family. “Please no, don’t force me to talk to them.” She whispered, as her body began to tremble.

“Ri, you’re family now. If they don’t like it, they can fuck themselves. They will never see this baby if they treat you any different.” Gulping, she felt her hands become more clammy- her heart was practically jumping out of her chest.

“Myself and Riley have some news... we are having a baby.” Kissing her on the cheek, his hand lingered over her stomach. Bianca could now tell how happy her son was, he loved this girl. If there was a second chance at happiness, she was going to support her son and grandchild as she was doing with her daughter.

“I’m so happy for you both. Congratulations..”

“Riley, Drake was a nightmare as baby- just to warn you. He kept Bianca and Jackson up all night... you better get your sleep in now...”

“I’m going to be an Auntie. Bartie is going to have a cousin. Welcome to the family, Riley.” Savannah was beaming, knowing how upset her brother had been. Pulling the two of them in for a hug, Riley felt more at ease with the comments- only for a brief second.

“Welcome to the family? There’s a chance that the baby could be mine!”

“Liam, the baby isn’t yours. Can you leave my family alone?” Forcing Riley behind him, he was ready for a stand off with his old friend- someone who had turned into his arch-enemy overnight.

“She was mine before you Drake... we both have had sex with her.”

“You raped me!”

“He did what?” Drake gulped, he didn’t tell his family regarding the abuse she had received from Liam and Rita. It was none of their business, but now Bianca had questioned this he was unsure about how it was going to elaborate.

“Liam and my old boss, drugged me and then he raped me..”

“Why isn’t he in prison?” Anger was now building through Bianca’s veins, knowing why Drake was so protective over her.

“I dropped the charges, he has a daughter to provide for...”

“Listen Mr Rhys, stay away from my son and daughter in law.” Everyone came over hearing the altercation, all providing the Walkers with support.

“Leo, back me up. We’re brothers.” Leo wrapped his arms around Riley’s waist, kissing her on the cheek.

“The minute you hurt Riley all those years ago, you lost me as your brother. I’ll be fighting for custody over Alice if you carry on causing trouble for everyone...” Liam looked at everyone who was scowling at him, knowing he wasn’t going to win this debate but he wasn’t ready to let it go without a fight.

“This isn’t over Riley. I am not having another man bring up my child. I am paying for you to have a DNA test before that baby is born. Do not try to stop me!” Storming off, Riley’s body began to shake- she was an emotional wreck, Leo attempted to comfort her but knew she needed Drake.

“I don’t need a DNA test, I know that you’re the father... It could harm the baby or I could miscarry. I can’t lose another baby.” Resting her head, in the crook of his neck- he held her attentively. Wishing that Liam would back off, he was appreciative that everyone had stuck by him, Riley and his family.

“You’re not going to. You have all of us, he can’t force you to do anything.” Bianca looked at her son, placing the item in his pocket- she smiled softly, hoping that he would understand the reasoning why.

[msjr0119]

Sneak peek Sunday 26/04/2020

Thanks for the tags: @kacie-0156 @thecordoniandiaries 😘

I’ve been pretty useless recently with work and nausea all the time. But when I’ve had motivation I have been writing. Hoping to post a few things this week as i have six days off work - YAY! 🙌🏼... if anyone has tagged me in anything, I’ve got the notifications and will catch up tomorrow ❤️

Warnings: swearing, slight smut.

Tags- using combined tag list off the top of my head:

@pedudley @loveellamae @annekebbphotography @burnsoslow @ladyangel70 @kingliam2019 @bascmve01 @texaskitten30 @i-bloody-love-drake-walker @kimmiedoo5 @nikkis1983 @hopefulmoonobject @lodberg @axwalker @liamxs-world @rafasgirl23415 @yukinagato2012 @cordonianroyalty @indiacater @seriouslybadchoices @rainbowsinthestorm @jared2612 @desireepow-1986 @twinkle-320 @queenjilian @bebepac @drakewalkerisreal

****

A Second Chance

@kacie-0156 did me an amazing moodboard of my Royal family from my series ‘Hold on’ and ‘A Second Chance’ .. I was so frustrated because I can’t do them for the life of me, you are a little superstar! 😘🥰❤️

Louis Alexander Rhys (Aaron Brueckner), Riley Brooks/Rhys (Emily Rudd), Ayah Olivia Rhys (Grace Phipps), Liam Rhys (Kevin Lutolf), Eleanor Hana Rhys (Indiana Evans).

Below is a snippet from the next chapter ⬇️

Drake knew that everything she had gone through was due to that one poor decision he had made in the past.

“I suppose I should thank you for making me strong then? I’m going to head back, just to make sure that Maxwell hasn’t set your home on fire.” Laughing, she knew that Maxwell was capable to be involved in any calamity.

“I’ll come with you.” Drinking the remainder of his beer, he stood up ready to return to the cabin. Riley placed her hand onto his arm, focusing her eyes on to his.

“You don’t have to. I interrupted you. I talk to Liam all the time, I still phone him. I know how important it is to have these moments. I’ll see you back at the cabin, Glen is waiting to escort me.” Providing him with a tight hug, they stayed in that position for a while. “I’ll see you soon.” Caressing his cheek, she smiled softly at him. Drake nodded towards Glen who was stood in the distance, as Riley walked away. Knowing that she was safe with her guard, he still felt the need to be that extra protection.

Let it be, he whispered. Picking up the guitar he slung it over his shoulder, then picked up the empty beer bottles. Gazing up towards the brightest stars one more time, he blew a lingering kiss. I love you Hana. I love you Liam. I miss you both so much.

****

One Temptation

Maxwell had been quickly to meet his lover, not wanting to disclose her identity just yet. He knew that Drake was never precise with his timings. Giving a certain time that he would be back, didn’t matter. Half of the time he was early or late- never at the estimated time of arrival as provided.

“Hi, can I help you? You look lost.”

“Hello, this is probably a long shot but I’m looking for someone. Well some people infact.”

“Names?” Asking for the information, Maxwell would help anyone in need. Even strangers.

“Walker.” Must be his lucky day. Maxwell thought to himself as he shrugged.

“Which one? There’s Bianca, Savannah and Drake.” The mans defeated facial expression soon broke into a smile. Relieved that he had unexpectedly bumped into this stranger. Hoping that Maxwell could provide him with the information that he required.

“Ah splendid. So you know them? Could you explain where I may find Drake?”

“Come in buddy, today is your lucky day! He lives with me.” Escorting the stranger into the apartment- Maxwell was delusional, and far too trustworthy.

“Tea? Coffee? Biscuit?” Maxwell asked, being the good hostess. Shaking his head politely, the man became fidgety- hoping that Drake wasn’t going to waste his time.

“So I didn’t quite catch your name....”

“Theron. Hakim Theron.”

“Cool name, bro. So are you in business with Drake or something?” Drake was very private with his life, his colleagues- anything really. So Maxwell was intrigued as to who the mystery man was. Where he was from. What he wanted.

“Something like that...”

“You could tell me to pass the time away, or we could just sit here twiddling our thumbs?” Rolling his eyes back, he often wondered what Drake saw in this city- especially sharing an apartment with someone who acted like goofy.

“Let’s just say, I’m a family friend. My investments are very important to me. I am paying to upkeep the Walker ranch back in Texas and between myself and the Walkers we had an agreement. However, Bianca and Leona have gone awol. I need to know if I’m selling it for a huge profit or if I need to hire some staff during their absence.”

“Well shouldn’t you be discussing that with them, rather than Drake? I can give you the address.” Grabbing a scrap piece of paper, Maxwell began jotting Bertrand’s address down. Not thinking anything bad would come of it.

“Thank you. However I do need to talk to Drake too. This involves him as well. You see, part of the agreement was that Drake married my daughter for the generosity of my support. I just wanted to inform him that we have set a date for those nuptials. A month today.”

****

We Belong

“This is him. Isn’t he gorgeous? Like a Greek god. This is Evie’s potential second failed engagement. I mean they haven’t even kissed yet...” Elise sniggered along with the other women whilst ‘swooning’ over him.

“We aren’t into the whole PDA. I like to keep my sex life private with my fiancée.” Empathising the word fiancée he had hoped that that would be the end of it.

“We don’t care. Do we girls? Just kiss.” Elise was peer pressuring them as she wasn’t convinced that their relationship was sincere. Narrowing her eyes towards Evie’s direction, she pointed towards the watch on her wrist. Tick tock.

“Oh, I will be kissing him and doing a whole lot more when we return to the hotel. Isn’t that right darling?” Evie placed her hand across Liam’s chest, looking up towards his with a fake seductive expression.

“Just kiss. What’s the issue?” Evie turned her head towards Liam, cupping his cheek. Just pretend that you are movie star, Evie. It’s fake. That woman isn’t digging her claws into someone else’s man. Kissing Liam slowly to begin with, his hands roamed her body as the kiss deepened. Opening her mouth, he slipped his tongue in- both tongues battling against each other. Breaking the kiss, Evie noticed that Liam enjoyed that kiss far too much than he should have.

“Did you enjoy your ‘live porn’? I mean this is what I do to my fiancé...”. Pointing to his obvious erection, the women all gasped- all now swooning even more over the handsome stranger. Elise grit her teeth together, before dragging her ‘minions’ away.

“What the fuck Liam? Seriously! Can’t you control yourself?”

“You came on to me... I can’t help it. I’m a man.”

“Riley is going to chop your dick off your Majesty. I’m telling Drake why we kissed. To save that slut from ruining anymore relationships. No need to thank me. No matter how hard you resist, Elise always get what she wants. It’s up to you if you tell your wife.”

“You enjoyed it really, Duchess Evangeline.” Winking he was only joking. Even though he had cheated on Riley he did secretly enjoy it- but that kiss was closure even if it was fake. He realised that Evie wasn’t want he wanted anymore. Riley and his child was his world. As much as he loved Evie, he was grateful with how fate had occurred in his life.

“Your Majesty. Duchess Evangeline. Drake. Riley. Not so innocent are we Evie?” Elise spoke quietly standing in the shadows overhearing the conversation- her imagination began to roam wild.

****

The Unexpected Roommate

“Have I done something wrong?” Drake questioned, hoping that he hadn’t fucked up. Hearing Leo snort in the background, he turned his head towards his friend scowling. Leo responded by smirking and shrugging his shoulders.

“No. Why?”

“You overheard what I said... stop lying. That’s why you ignored me. It’s not like that at all, I said that....”

“I heard it all. Yes. Don’t worry about it. We’re not in a relationship. It was just sex remember? Sounds like you have a ‘fuck buddy’ already- don’t include me in your games or sexual needs anymore.”

“I’d rather you be my ‘fuck buddy’.” Fuck. I didn’t mean for it to come out that way. Taking a deep breath, he regretted saying that instantly. He was kind of expecting a right hook. “What happened between us was amazing, Riley.”

“Yeah it was.” Not sounding too confident she didn’t want to make out that she was jealous over him being involved with someone else. Whether it was in the past, or in the present. Reaching out for her hand, he held it tightly not knowing how she would react to the gesture.

“So what do you say? Make a little arrangement? If you want ‘us’, we can start as casual sex- then see where it goes?”

“You’re fucking insane, Drake. Go back to hating me.”

“I’d say I’m an attractive guy, you’re a gorgeous girl when you’re not an arsehole.”

“You’re so vein. I do have a rule, if we do this though...No kissing on the lips.”

“But we did that last night. Why?”

“That was this morning actually. Because if we aren’t in a relationship, what’s the point in being intimate?” Drake’s heart sunk, not realising why. Now he had kissed her, knowing what it felt like- he wanted to continue that.

“Okay, fine. I’ll see you later then?” I’ll kiss those lips, don’t you worry Riley.

“Yup. Bye Leo.” Leo waved from a distance, not really wanting to get involved in the blossoming love life between his two friends.

“Ri?”

“Yeah?”

“I’m sorry for being a jerk... I’m starting to fall...” Fall for you. “fall behind with the housework. I’m only going into work for a few hours. I’ll clean up when I’m back.”

“Wait for me to come back. I’ll help you. 50/50 remember. My nails are fucked anyway.” Providing a little laugh, she headed towards her room- not fully aware of what she had just agreed to. Not knowing if that was actually what she wanted. Deep down, she wanted more after their night together. She wondered if he did too. Or if indeed he was just happy with the friends with benefits arrangement.

Drake sat down besides Leo, his head fell into his hands. This girl had got into his mind, he suggested the ‘friends with benefits’ hoping that she would decline the offer. Hoping that they could begin a relationship instead. He just didn’t have the confidence to express what his heart truly wanted - she made him weak at the knees. Although he would never confess that. Not yet anyway. He was unsure as to if he would ever be able to admit to his true feelings.

“Now I may not be a translator, but that was the biggest amount of bullshit ever stated, Drake” Leo knew Drake and he knew for a fact what his friend meant when he stuttered after the word ‘falling’.

[msjr0119]

One Temptation

Part 9

*This series is based on The Royal Romance characters who belong to Pixelberry - AU Plot switch*

Riley Brooks moves back to New York after leaving five years prior- struggling to get by in life she wanted to go home. After getting mugged, a woman and man come to her rescue and offer her a job at their strip club. A rich business man Liam Rhys is forced to visit the club as part of his bachelor party. What will happen that night?

Tags-if you want to be removed let me know 😊: @pedudley @kacie-0156 @loveellamae @annekebbphotography @burnsoslow @ladyangel70 @kingliam2019 @bbrandy2002 @butindeed @bascmve01 @drakewalker04 @captain-kingliamsqueen @duchessemersynwalker @drxkewalker @texaskitten30 @ibldw-main @kimmiedoo5 @nikkis1983 @gnatbrain @walker7519 @lodberg @cmestrella @kozabaji @hopefulmoonobject @addictedtodrakefanfic @angi15h @liamxs-world @rafasgirl23415 @notoriouscs @whenyourheartskipsabeat @jovialyouthmusic @nz1091 @yukinagato2012 @seriouslybadchoices @rainbowsinthestorm @cordonianroyalty @dcbbw @qammh-blog @jared2612 @princess-geek @desireepow-1986 @indiacater

Warnings: Swearing, smut, verbal abuse.

*****

Fiancée, fuck.

“Riley, it’s not what you think it is.” Why do I fall in love with men who aren’t honest with me? I’ve seen her. I’ve seen the ring. Maybe I should have just put up with Liam’s shit.

Storming out of the room, she couldn’t deal with anymore bullshit- yes, she knew that she was degrading herself. But realised that life never went to plan, regretting coming back in the first place she wished that she had made a new life in Florida- to be close to her Gran even though she had passed away. Knowing that he wouldn’t be able to explain the situation due to her stubbornness, he didn’t know which route to take. Let her cool off for a while? Force her to listen to him?

“Ri?” Maxwell noticed her determined to get back to work- they believed that the two of them would be in the room longer- hoping that they would kiss and make up.

“Max, get him out of here. I don’t mind you and Leo staying - but please get these two out of here.”

“What the fuck has gone off?” Leo snapped, noticing the facial expressions on both Riley and Drake.

“Drake has a fiancée back in Texas. Kiara.” All three men looked at Drake, waiting for him to elaborate. “It’s not like that at all.”

“You get her pregnant, fuck with her feelings when all this time you have a fiancée?” Leo swung his fist back, aiming straight into Drake’s jaw. Not regretting his actions- Liam jumped in between the two men. “Between the two of you, neither of you could be honest with her! Drake has a secret fiancée and you Liam, you cheat on her, impregnate the slut - then kept my niece a secret. You are both pathetic. Riley, I’m so sorry. Please don’t let this affect your friendship with me and Max.”

“Just get out all of you! Please. I’m just so glad that my child wasn’t brought into all this drama- that was the only right decision I’ve made since I returned.” Hearing this broke Drakes heart, he didn’t want to leave her in this state. He believed that Texas would be a break for the two of them to elaborate on their relationship- instead it had broken them apart, again. Once the men had left the club, Riley broke down in the back room- thinking about how it all went wrong.

****

“Leo... who’s blood is that on your hands?” Fuck

“Mine. I was so annoyed with Liam- that I punched the wall. Please don’t ever talk to him again. You have all of us. He will pay for what he’s done. I hope you two are very happy together- you deserve it Ri.” Riley looked at him, jumping out of bed- she hugged Leo. Cupping his cheeks, her eyes searched his hoping for some truth and answers.

“You’d tell me if you’d hurt him? Right?” Leo gulped as he nodded, knowing that she possibly had some inkling as to how he had received his injuries.

“He won’t hurt you again. Stay with Drake, he’s a good guy.” Leo smiled at the two of them, hoping that this trip to Texas would help clear her mind. Hoping that Drake wouldn’t hurt her as his brother did.

“Come on, let’s get some sleep. We’ve got a long journey tomorrow.” Crawling back into bed, her thoughts lingered on Leo. She knew exactly who’s blood it was- but didn’t want to ask knowing that he was protecting her and would deny it until he was blue in the face.

“I love you.” Drake reminded her, he knew what he wanted in life- it was her. He meant what he said, he would provide for the two of them.

“I love you too.” His lips grazed her neck as she responded to him. Moving them slowly and seductively towards her ear lobes- she slightly moaned. Pulling her closer towards him he continued to lick and kiss her bare skin.

“Ri, I’m going to look after you. I want us to be together- no more taking one step forward and two back. I’m going to protect you and love you until I die.” Turning around to face him, she witnessed the sincerity in his eyes along with lust. Before she could respond, she was silenced as he placed his lips onto hers- gradually turning into a passionate kiss. Drakes hands roamed up and down her body, leaving one hand cupping her breast she moaned into the kiss. Breaking the kiss, his hand lingered on her breast- rolling on top of her he kissed her sensitive spot-her neck. His lips met his hands, pinching one nipple- he nibbled the other.

“Have you ever had sex in a ranch before?” He asked her seductively as he thrust against her. Biting her lip- she pulled him on to her.

“I’m a city girl, not a country girl- what do you think?”

“I think I could turn you into a country girl... I can’t wait to take you home...”

Positioning himself between her legs, he kissed her again on the lips; before making his way down to her entrance via her neck, breasts and hips. Looking up at her, there was an urgency in his eyes - as well as a need for permission to continue. Just having the man she loved touch her in such a manner excited her, she knew why his eyes asked for permission and she was grateful for this. Placing her hand onto his head, she guided him. Separating her legs open, he began to lick her clit- starting off slow and tenderly, adding the odd suck before gradually increasing his speed. Riley thrust her hips upwards as she moaning, encouraging him to devour her. Her whole body was now trembling, her legs had turned to jelly - removing his tongue that was now covered in her juices.

Placing his finger on to her wet folds, he kept his eyes on hers as he caressed her clit slowly at first, but soon picked up the speed as his did with his tongue- thrusting against his hand, she couldn’t contain the moans that were escaping from her lips. Unable to keep her eyes open, the pleasure was too much, she was addicted to Drake Walker- and never wanted this ‘dream’ to end. Removing his new coated fingers, she couldn’t control her body- the shakes that wouldn’t stop was as if she had had an injection of local anaesthetic full of adrenaline.

Smirking at her, he was happy that he had pleasured her- but he now wanted all of her. He stood up and removed his boxers slowly, his eyes still focused onto hers. His erection jumped out like a jack in the box. Reaching over for the wrapper, he wouldn’t mind if an accident was to happen- her test results had come back quickly, and she was clear after the rape. But they were taking things slow this time. Planning their relationship. Guiding his tip it found her entrance, positioning his throbbing penis at the opening of her wet entrance he plunged straight into her. “You feel good baby.” He said with an husky tone of voice. Allowing her to get used to his girth, he began to pleasure her with slow, yet deep thrusts. He pulled out until he was almost out of her before diving immediately back in. Spreading her legs gave him the opportunity to pump even deeper, and he succeeded. Their breaths were both in unison, closing her eyes she was ready to release once more. His hot seed flooded the condom as his powerful thrusts slowed down. Laying his forehead on hers, the sweat from his brow fell onto her but she didn’t care. “I’ll never get bored of sex with you. Even when we are old and decrepit.” He panted, as he removed himself from her- standing up he removed the condom and cleaned himself up. “Who said we are going to be together when we are old and decrepit?”

“Me. I’ve never fallen in love before- not properly, but with you... you’re my drug. I crave for you, now I’ve found you- I’m never letting you go.”

“Please don’t break my heart, Drake.”

“I’ll never do that. I love you, Riley.”

“I love you too.”

“Shower?” He winked at her as he asked her in a seductive manner. Biting her lip, she nodded as he picked her up and carried her to the bathroom.

The morning after Drake and Riley had packed their bags and Drake was talking to Maxwell whilst waiting for Riley to finish getting ready.

“You guys better return. Or I’ll come and hunt you both down in Texas.”

“Max you do know that Texas is a big place. Right?” Maxwell furrowed his eyebrows, realisation soon hit him- he didn’t think about that.

“I’ll still find ya don’t worry. I love ya both. Enjoy your vacay! Bring me a pressie back seen as though I’m your best friend.” Riley came out of the room, wearing comfortable clothing.

“Hey beautiful. Are you ready?” Drake asked as he put his arms around her waist.

“I am. I can’t wait!” Maxwell smiled at the two of them, hoping that this break away would blossom into something for the two of them. He knew that they both regretted their decision regarding the baby- he knew that they both loved each other immensely.

“Drake you better put a baby inside of her and come back with a ring on her finger.” Riley spat the coffee out that she was attempting to drink - whilst Drake’s eyes widened at his friends insensitive comment.

“Max, no. We are taking things slow this time. Right Drake?” Slow. Yes. Slow. Providing her with a smile- she jumped in to arms catching him off guard. Holding her tightly, he had been thinking about their future- the thoughts constantly lingered throughout his mind.

“I love you, so much.”

“I love you too, Mr Walker.”

“And I love you guys- Come here.” Maxwell put his arms around the two of them- not intentionally attempting to ruin the moment- he was just continuing providing the love that was surrounding the apartment.

****

Arriving at the ranch, Riley became nervous- she wanted to make a good impression with Drake’s family. If she had kept the baby they would be family- without the baby she was just his girlfriend. As Drake turned the ignition off- he noticed her faffing about with her hair, adding a bit of lip balm to her lips.

“What are you doing?”

“What if they hate me? I look a mess. I...”

“You look beautiful. It’s not about what they think anyway. It’s about what I think. You’re my girlfriend, not theirs. Besides all the talk will be about Savannah anyway.” Placing a gentle kiss on her forehead, she still felt that she needed to impress. Exiting the car, Drake intertwined his fingers with hers as they walked to the porch.

“Drake!” Feeling suffocated by his Mom’s over affective welcoming as she hugged him tightly - he pushed her away enabling for him to breath again. Placing his arm around Riley’s waist, he smiled at her before focusing his gaze on to his mother who was providing a fake smile to the stranger.

“Hi, mom. This is Riley.”

“Nice to meet you Mrs Walker.” Bianca blatantly ignored Riley after what she had heard about her- creating more nerves running through Riley’s body.

“Come in. I’ve made you some food- I assumed you’d be hungry.”

Entering the ranch, Riley was in awe at how homey it was- it was something like you’d see in the movies or an oil painting.

“Your home is beautiful.” Riley said, attempting to break the awkward silence- Bianca just smirked at her before turning to her son.

“Drake, could you check on Bessie before we eat? She’s not been her usual self. Besides we need to get to know Riley without you here.” Drake nodded, just be yourself he whispered in her ear as he quickly left.

“Are you using my son for his money? Sluts like you will never be loyal partners.” His money? I know a richer man than Drake. If I was a ‘gold digger’ I’d have jumped straight back in to Liam’s arms.

“We’ve heard all about your job.” Leona butted in, interrupting Riley’s thoughts about their abrupt behaviour.

“I don’t know what you’ve heard....”

“You’re a prostitute.” What? Why are they assuming that?

“I can assure you I’m not. I work in a strip club as the bar maid.”

“Stripper then?”

“No! I work behind the bar. I’ve danced to one song- ‘pour some sugar on me’ with my colleague. I’ve danced on the pole for only Drake.. Who told you all about this?”

“My nephew can do so much better than a stripper. You was probably just lust for him, nothing more.” Riley felt the anger build up inside of her, holding the tears back - the two women just continued a regular conversation as they heard footsteps.

“Mom, she’s fine. I’ve done a full check on her.” Bianca nodded as she placed the food out and provided Riley with dagger eyes.

“Are you okay?” Drake whispered to her, just assuming that she was still nervous- he held her hand hoping that this little gesture would help her settle in more.

“I’m fine.”

****

The morning after, Riley wanted to inform Drake about what was said the previous day- but didn’t want to cause an issue. Believing that it was just bad first impressions, she wanted to believe that it would get better.

“What’s the matter?” He asked as she sat up in bed, before pulling her back down towards him.

“Nothing.” Laying next to him, they were disturbed by a knock on the door. Drake knew something was on her mind but couldn’t figure out exactly what it could be.

“Good morning, Drake whilst you’re here- Mr Jones has asked if you could drop some food off for him. I’d do it but I’m so busy.”

“How does he even know that I’m here?”

“Word travels fast around here. Sorry darling. I can take Riley for a tour.”

“I’ll be an hour tops, baby.” Drake shot out of bed, knowing the quicker he left the quicker he would be back with Riley. Bianca waited for Drake to leave, before forcing the duvet off of Riley - she eyed her body up and down.

“You’re pretty skinny, well I suppose you’d have to be with your job.”

“Do you mind?” Riley snapped at her, regretting coming here in the first place as she tried to cover her body up.

“This is my home lady, my rules. I have a proposition for you. But we will discuss that tomorrow. Get dressed and join myself and Leona.”

The day went by, Riley felt as if she was at school being lectured, being belittled by the two strangers. Looking at her phone she wished that she had reception- she would ring Maxwell or Leo for a bit of comforting- asking if this was normal for Drake’s family or if they just had a vendetta against her.

“So how did you meet Drake then?” Leona asked, sounding slightly sincere compared to the previous day.

“He was friends with my ex. They came to the club for my ex’s bachelor party.” Being truthful, she had nothing to hide- they hated her anyway so a slight bit more hatred wouldn’t matter.

“Keeping it in the friendship group then. Are you their little whore?” Are you a fucking bitch? No point lying, they’ll probably bring out the lie detector test next.

“I’ve slept with all four of them in the friendship group. Happy now?” Sulking off she couldn’t deal with more anger or disgust towards her. Making her way up to Drake’s room, the tears that had been held suddenly poured out.

“What’s the matter? Mom said you ran off?” Quickly wiping her eyes, she turned to face him providing him with a stoic expression- knowing quite well that he would see straight through her if not.

“Nothing.” Shaking his head he was frustrated with her not opening up to him.

“Ri?”

“It’s nothing Drake. I’m just homesick. That’s all.” Lying she didn’t know what else to say.

*****

Drake and Riley had passionate sex after dinner, three times. Three unprotected times- not thinking about the consequences. In that moment, neither cared- for Riley feeling his touch made her forget about the verbal abuse she had received. Maybe they was correct in a manner, she kept thinking. After all she did agree for Drake to provide for the two of them and to not return to work.

The morning after, she woke up quite early. It was still dark outside- carefully sneaking away from Drake who had held her protectively, she couldn’t sleep.

Creeping downstairs, she assumed that everybody else would be asleep- helping herself to a glass of water, it was soon all over the floor as a reaction to the voice behind her.

“Good morning, an early riser I see.” Just be polite Riley, remember she could have potentially been your child’s grandmother and monster in law.

“I was just thirsty. I’m sorry if I disturbed you.”

“Nonsense dear. Come and join us - watch the sun rise.” Riley really didn’t want to join them, but was grateful for the hospitality even if it was an awkward situation every time she was present without Drake. Following Bianca, she held her head low- deciding to keep quiet or to respond to anymore possible interrogations with one word answers.

“So Riley, I am very protective over my son and daughter. Ever since their father died, they are all I have left along with Leona. You will never be good enough for my son. I have something to tell you....” As Bianca paused, Riley noticed another woman sat with Leona- just assuming that she was staff she didn’t think anything of it. “This is Kiara, a close family friend and also Drakes fiancée.” I must be that tired that I’ve misunderstood her. Fiancée? She must have said friend? “I’m so sorry that you had to find out this way. Drake will be marrying Kiara in the future, I have ten grand which I am willing to give you- to keep you away from my son. Kiara, show her the ring.” Kiara felt awkward, yet also jealous that Drake had the audacity to bring his new girlfriend here. She loved him, and she wanted it to stay that way. She wasn’t ready to let go, she had carried a torch out for him ever since he went awol from Texas to move to New York. Once Bianca had informed her that Drake was returning, Kiara couldn’t be more thrilled. Flaunting the heirloom in Riley’s face, she also showed her a picture of when Drake proposed. Feeling like this was some horrible nightmare- she pinched herself, realisation hit like a ton of bricks- this was reality. The ring could have been a fake ploy to get rid of her, but the photo was genuine, sincere.

“I... I.. didn’t know... I’d have never...”

“I’m so sorry, but he is my fiancé. You don’t need a man like that. Why don’t you go back home like Bianca suggested.”

“Here, Riley. Here’s the money, stay away from my son!”

“You can shove the money up your fucking arse. I’m done!” Not looking back, she knew that she had to leave- hoping not to wake Drake up- she snuck into the room, quickly packing her bag. Her head told her to question him about all of this, her heart had been shattered and still wanted him. Sighing, she left the ranch and headed to the airport.

****

A week after her friends had located her once again, she had been feeling like a weight had been lifted off her shoulders. There had been no drama. She had text Leo and Maxwell every so often as they checked in on her. Maxwell didn’t want to inform her that Drake had returned to Texas, not that she would probably care anyway.

Walking into Starbucks, she allowed people to jump the queue- being undecided on what drink to order. As she went to the till, her mind wasn’t helping her make a decision- Frappuccino, cappuccino, latte, mocha. Fuck.

“Hi, what would you like?” Still pausing, it wasn’t a hard decision to make.

“I ... Erm....”

“She would like a salted caramel Frappuccino- with extra cream. Large.” Turning around she sighed, knowing full well who it was. The only person who probably knew her preferences inside and out. The barista waited impatiently for Riley to confirm her order, knowing that the queue forming behind her was increasing with every second that went by.

“Is that everything?” Riley nodded, as she retrieved her purse out of her bag.

“Add an espresso too, please. Put your money away Ri.”

“I’m capable of buying a drink, Liam. I don’t want anything from you.”

“It’s just a coffee, it’s the least I can do.” Riley shook her head, knowing that he wouldn’t accept ‘no’ for an answer. Collecting her Frappuccino, she thanked him as she turned to leave.

“Ri?” Rolling her eyes back, she sighed as she turned to face him- he provided sorrow in his eyes, but then provided her with a smirk. That smirk. The smirk that would usually make her heart flutter in the past. Now, she was that broken- she didn’t care what he needed to say but decided to let him speak anyway.

“What?”

“Are you busy?”

“No. Why?”

“Do you fancy lunch? I need to talk to you, about my court case.”

“Liam, I’m not supposed to talk to you. Never mind accept a coffee off of you, or have lunch with you.”

“I’m sorry for what I did. I accept what I did, and I can only apologise for my despicable actions.”

“You still did it though.” Her bottom lip began to tremble, she kept telling herself to be strong- to not cry. Liam noticed her become slightly emotional- closing the distance, he wiped her tears. To begin with she flinched at his touch, but they were in public so she knew he wouldn’t hurt her. He couldn’t possibly hurt her more than he already had done.

“I know, I don’t know what I was thinking. Please just join me for lunch.” I suppose a free lunch won’t hurt? I’ve got nothing better to do. Closure. That’s all it will be.

“Fine.” She said in an unenthusiastic tone of voice- entering the limo outside, she could feel Liam’s eyes on her- every time she glanced at him he provided her with a soft smile. Staring out of the window, she knew exactly which restaurant they were heading towards. It was the one they went to on their first official date, the one he had taken her on their first anniversary, the one where he said those three words to her for the first time. What is he playing at?

*****

Arriving at the restaurant, Riley felt awkward- she didn’t have the energy to hate him. What had happened, happened. Nothing could change it.

“What would you like?”

“I’ll just have a salad, and Liam- I’m paying. So hurry up and talk.” Shaking his head, he knew she was stubborn.

“A salad? Where’s the real Riley? Why aren’t you ordering a greasy burger? Or a pizza with all the hot toppings on it?” Focusing her eyes onto him, he relaxed in his chair whilst laughing- seeing a genuine smile on her face made this situation less awkward than it could have been.

“I don’t want to embarrass you again, I mean you and chilli do not get on together.”

“Imagine if I ate it, just the smell of chilli made me feel ill.”

“Liam, you turned red and couldn’t breathe.” Laughing at the memory, at the time she was panicking- now it was karma. She had even considered changing her mind last minute to order a chilli pizza instead of a salad.

Liam ordered their food, they ate in silence. Ordering another drink, Liam decided that now was the time to talk.

“So, I went to court and pleaded not guilty.” Riley wasn’t shocked at his statement, she knew he was in denial. Nodding, she didn’t know what to say. “But, I have been considering changing my plea- I am changing my plea. You didn’t deserve what I did to you. Anything that I’ve done to you. I’m going to lose custody of Alice, but it’s the right thing to do. I have to pay you some money for compensation and I know you won’t accept it. So if there’s anything you need or want, let me know and Bastien will sort it out for you.”

“I don’t want anything Liam. Thank you for finally admitting what you did. I’m going to go.” Throwing her money on the table as she stood up, she didn’t want to elaborate this conversation. Standing up, he pulled her closer to him and kissed her on the cheek. “If you change your mind, let me know. Look after yourself, Ri.”

******

Drake had made his way to Texas, he had constantly text Riley- explaining what she had exposed wasn’t what she believed it was. His past had caught up on him and he required answers from the three women- Bianca, Leona and Kiara.

“Drakey! I knew you’d return.” He heard his mom shout as she ran to his truck. “Where’s your bags?”

“They are staying in the truck. I’m not staying. I’m here for answers! Call Kiara. I want to see her, as well you and Aunt Leona. I’ll cook tea, don’t worry.” Raiding through the kitchen cupboards, he had hoped that his mom had ingredients to create a spontaneous meal. The sooner he had spoken to them the soon he could drive back to New York. He had decided to drive rather than fly, to give himself time to think.

“Drake!” Kiara ran up to him, hoping to reconcile their relationship- catching her, she attempted to force kisses onto his lips. Placing her back on the ground, he had no interest in her but wasn’t going to be a jerk letting her fall as she jumped into his arms.

“Kiara. Sit down all of you. It’ll be done shortly.”

Don’t worry Kiara, he will change his mind. You will both be engaged again. Have you got the ring on you again?

Of course I have. He did give me it once upon a time, I rarely take it off. How can you be so sure that he won’t go back to Riley?

Because she ran away, and he’s here. With you, with us.

“Do you know it’s rude to whisper?” Giving them all a stern look, they wondered how this visit was going to elaborate- they all hoped that he would leave New York for good and return home.

“Can someone please explain to me why Riley thinks that we are still engaged?”

“Technically we are. You just left, you never actually broke off the engagement.”

“Where are you going? Come back to bed.” Kiara said seductively, as she tried to pull Drake’s tense body back down onto the soft duvet. For a while now, he had come to the realisation that this was a mistake. He didn’t want this as much as she did. He didn’t want to be in a loveless marriage from his point of view. Plenty of times he had plucked the courage to end it, but there was always a burden in the way preventing him from completing the task.

“I am not marrying you. I was forced into it. I am starting a new life without you in it- you suffocate me Kiara. This whole thing has ruined our friendship.”

“You don’t mean that. You love me. I love you.” Kneeling on her knees, she wrapped her arms around his muscled body- pressing light kisses onto his bare skin, hoping that this would change his mind.

“I don’t love you. I never have and I never will.”

“Is there someone else?”

“No. I’m staying single for the rest of my life. We are over, finito. Take care.”

“I clearly said that we was over. Would you have understood it better if I said it in french?” Kiara scowled at him, at his cocky sarcastic manner.

“Well now that the stripper is out of the picture, why not give you both another chance.”

“That ‘stripper’ was the mother of my child. She aborted my child, because of people like you sticking their business in to our relationship. I fell in love with her, the first woman I have actually had sincere feelings for.”

“She was pregnant?” Bianca was shocked at this confession, feeling slightly guilty for the way she had reacted- if she knew she may have acted differently, she may have not listened to the Chinese whispers.

“She was due a similar time that Savannah is. Why can’t anyone let me be happy?”

“Kiara will make you happy, you can replace the child you lost.”

“I don’t want to replace it Aunt Leona! I don’t want anything to do with Kiara! Or this family for that matter. If you lose the ranch, tough shit! Kiara I want my grandmothers ring back- it’s not yours.”

“We can make it work Drake, and you can save your families ranch by marrying me. My father is still willing to pay the debts off even though you went awol.”

“I love Riley. I’m going back to New York in a week or so. I am going to explain everything to her- if it takes me an eternity to do this it’s worth it. I will let your father know that the arrangement is off and has been for a very long time. Excuse me, I have a phone. Enjoy your lunch, see you all whenever.”

Max what’s up?

Can you talk it’s like really important. It’s about Liam and Riley.

What about them?

It’s... oh Drake. I don’t know how to tell you.

******

A couple of weeks had gone by since Liam had unexpectedly bumped into Riley at Starbucks. He hadn’t heard from her, not that he was expecting to. Liam had finished his last meeting for the day; walking to his office he loosened his tie- entering the office there was some unexpected visitors. What do they want now?

“Mr Rhys.”

“How may I help you officer?” Liam was unsure as to why they was paying him a visit- he was due to attend court in a matter of days. Using a stoic expression, he had hoped that it was a brief visit.

“We are just here to let you know that Miss Brooks has dropped all the charges. However, if there is another report of you committing a serious crime such as the one you was charged with- the authorities will not agree to drop it.” Liam believed he was hallucinating, he wanted to be punished for his actions. “Have a good day, Mr Rhys.”

Liam still shell shocked sat in his chair vacantly staring at the bottle of scotch in front of him. Bastien too was confused with Riley’s change of heart. Mavis, Liam’s PA knocked on the door- after she had witnessed the police leave, she knew he would be in a state of shock so needed to let him know what had happened when he was in his meeting, an hour before she escorted the police into his office away from prying eyes.

“Mr Rhys, Riley came before. She asked me to give you this letter.”

Liam, I can’t let you lose Alice. You hurt me, so much. But you’re the only person she has. Well, she has her mother. Sometimes. This doesn’t mean that I’ve forgiven you, or that I have forgotten what you did to me. We are not friends either. Just be a good dad, I know the old Liam is still there- somewhere.

“Bastien, I need to see her. Could you take me somewhere before?”

“Of course, Sir.”

****

Riley had finished her shift for the night, the tips that she had received were more than she had earned in a regular job. Separating the money; she placed her bill money in one pile, expenses for clothes etc in another. The money that she had left over she was intending to give to local charities- she didn’t require the money herself or would spend it for the sake of spending it. Gill had been her rock, she had supported her with everything; work, Liam, Drake. Anything she could do. Unlike Rita.

Hi, can you meet me? I need to talk to you.

Looking at the text, she didn’t really want to see anyone. They had all annoyed her in one way. Liam had cheated on her, impregnated another woman and then raped her. Drake who she believed she was going to have a future with had a secret fiancée. Leo had beaten the crap out Liam, yet wouldn’t admit this. Maxwell just kept texting her begging for her to give Drake another chance.

“Riley? Is everything okay?”

“Yeah, someone who I was once close to has asked to meet me.”

“Is it one of those men that came that night? The younger one is cute.” The older woman winked at her, Riley knew she had a secret crush on Maxwell.

“Yes. The younger one is called Maxwell. I grew up with him. He’s like a brother to me.”

“If only I was a bit younger.” Gill joked. “You don’t have to meet him. But it’s up to you honey.”

Sure. When? Where?

Going back on her words she had spoken in her mind, her fingers expressed something different as she text back.

Meet me at Times Square, if you’ve finished work that is?

Looking at the time, she had finished early- mainly due to working overtime.

I’ve finished, I’ll be there around half eleven.

Great

*****

Drake arrived back in New York City, in his mind this was now home. Besides his sister now lived here. He didn’t want anything to do with Texas; his mom, his aunt or Kiara. Since leaving the ranch, he didn’t rush back to the city that never slept- he needed to clear his mind without interference. Walking by the florist, he stopped abruptly. Not knowing how the person would react to seeing him.

“Leo?” Leo turned around facing his old friend- they hadn’t spoken since he had punched Drake.

“Walker.”

“How are ya?” Drake nervously asked, hoping that the time apart from his friends would have blown away any past issues.

“I’m fine. You look like shit though.”

“I’ve just got back from Texas via other cities too. Cleared all the mess up.”

“You mean you’ve been to see your fiancée?”

“Leo, she’s not fiancée. She was. Her father offered to pay my mom’s debts if I married her. I stupidly agreed, but she was suffocating- I never loved her. That’s when I ‘ran-away’ to here. I know everyone’s angry with me, but I didn’t mention it because it didn’t mean anything. I love Riley.” Leo gulped, hearing the sincerity in Drake’s voice. Feeling guilty for not giving Drake the chance to explain to Riley about Kiara - he looked down at the flowers, then focused his gaze back towards Drake. This isn’t about me, myself and Drake were once friends-but I also love her. Yes I’m with Olivia, but I will always have feelings for Riley. If it’s Drake she wants, it’s her choice.

“You don’t have to explain to me Drake. It’s Riley who’s heart you broke. She’s dropped the charges against Liam, she’s not been talking much to us.” I know she has, max told me when he rung me when I was stuck in yee haw hell.

“What about them?” Drake asked nervously, his heart nearly stopping as he believed that she had ran back into his arms with the way Maxwell had worded it.

“She’s fucking dropped the charges. I mean, she’s an idiot. Right? Why the fuck has she done that?” Feeling relieved that it wasn’t what he had expected, anger soon took over.

“Why the fuck would she do that?”

“She’s not been right since you know..... I’ve had the odd text here and there. So has Leo. When are you coming back? Maybe you could meet her?”

“She wouldn’t meet me anyway. She hates me.”

“What’s the worse that could happen? Text her when you’re back in New York- ask her to meet you. If she says no, just wait a few days and ask her again.”

“I have to go, I’m due in Times Square.” Drake looked at his watch, as Leo said this. Wondering why he was going there.

“I’m going there, I can give you a lift? Or we could get the subway together? Go for a beer on route?”

“I’m actually meeting someone on route, but thanks. See ya around Walker.”

*****

Liam and Bastien arrived in Times Square, even though it was late it still had that buzzing atmosphere. People rushing about, people taking selfies. Liam stopped just taking in the view- watching the billboards all playing advertisements, it was a distraction whilst they waited for that person to arrive. Feeling his hands become all clammy all of a sudden, he took in a few deep breaths- not knowing why he was nervous about meeting that person. They were close back in the day, yes- he had hurt them but he was ready to make amends.

*****

Maxwell walked the streets down Times Square, stopping as he saw some people encourage the crowd to join in with the dancing that they was doing. Hesitantly he agreed to join in after checking his watch- knowing he had a few minutes to spare before meeting his friend. It had been a few weeks since they had properly spoken and he was desperate for a catch up. To comfort them. Knowing that his dipsy attitude would form a smile on their face, he knew he couldn’t be late. But dancing was his forte and he was ready to steal the spotlight.

*****

Riley made her way to the location where they had arranged to meet. Pausing as she got closer to him, she took a deep breath- and counted to ten. It’s going to be okay.

“Hi.” She said nervously as she tapped him on the shoulder.

“Hello. I didn’t think that you’d come. I got you these. You deserve everything and more.” Smelling the flowers, the scent surrounded them filled her senses.

“They are beautiful, thank you. So what do you need to talk about?”

“You. Me. Us.” Riley furrowed her eyebrows at the man stood in front of her.

“I don’t have time to be sentimental. I just want to look forward to my future- the last week or so I’ve been the happiest I’ve been in a long time.” Looking down towards the floor, he knew exactly what she was referring to. Feeling like she had stabbed him directly in the heart- all he could do was try to cheer her up. He didn’t want her to runaway again. Not knowing if he would be able to find her this time.

“I’ve booked a room in the Crowne Plaza, we can order room service- have a talk. I’ve missed you, it’s always been you. I... I love you. I just needed you to know.”

Ignoring the love, she put her hand in to his- this unexpected gesture formed a smile on his face.

“Come on, I’m starving!” Internally scolding herself- she believed that she could cope with food then escape.

****

Walking through the lobby, he suggested having a few drinks at the bar before they headed up to the room. One drink, turned into two, turned into three- before she knew it she was staring at another empty glass. The alcohol had gone straight to her head- but her mind was still able to function, wondering what made her think it was a good idea to meet him in the first place. Wondering what other people would think. “Fuck it. Fuck them.” She muttered to herself. “More, please.” She slurred to the barmaid.

“I think you need to slow down.. have you actually eaten today?”

“No I haven’t. Don’t tell me what to do, please. You suggested ordering food, before we came here instead.”

“Ri....”

“Please don’t Ri me... you know life if shit. It sucks. There’s hope that it’ll get better, some days it does.. then some days it doesn’t...”

“I’m sorry. Come on, finish that then let’s get the food that was promised.”

Making their way upstairs, Riley stumbled but had the strong arms around her- supporting her, no matter how much anger she still had towards him, she was grateful. Opening the door, he immediately rung for room service knowing that she needed some food, making her a coffee this would also sober her up.

“Here, you don’t want a stinking hangover.” Smirking at him, she didn’t care about the hangover- she worked nights so would have time to recover. Accepting the coffee, she slowly slipped it.

“Thank you.” There was a moment of silence, he sat next to her- holding her hand. She had no energy to force him off of her- instead she turned her head towards him. Cupping her cheeks, he lent closer towards her- kissing her in a long lingering kiss- her drunk mind craved more. His gaze focused on her as he broke the kiss away- would she slap him across the face? Or punch him? Standing up, she bit her lip- turning to face him once more she held his gaze. A smile formed on his alluring mouth- don’t fuck this up, he thought to himself on repeat.

“You. Me. A hotel. Like old times eh? Shall we start over? My names.....” she placed a finger over his lips, as she lent down towards him and eventually straddled him.

“I know what your name is you moron. We have slept together before.”

[msjr0119]

WIP

So I’ve been slightly drunk for the last 24hours - not like me one bit 😉... Hope everyone has had a brilliant day 😘🎄🍸

I’ve even been ‘forced’ to do a new series and Drake x Kiara one shot 😭 - @dangerouseggseagleartisan took advantage of my drunk mind good job I love you so much girl 🤣 Here’s what I’m working on at the minute...

Tags:

@annekebbphotography @burnsoslow @drakesensworld @ladyangel70 @kingliam2019 @bbrandy2002 @butindeed @bascmve01 @drakewalker04 @pedudley @captain-kingliamsqueen @duchessemersynwalker @insideamirage @of-course-i-went-to-hartfeld @kozabaji @texaskitten30 @ibldw-main @kimmiedoo5 @nikkis1983 @dangerouseggseagleartisan @gnatbrain @walker7519 @lodberg @cmestrella @hopefulmoonobject @addictedtodrakefanfic @angi15h @liamxs-world @rafasgirl23415 @notoriouscs @yukinagato2012 @dcbbw @qammh-blog @nz1091 @beardedoafdonutwagon @cordonianroyalty @custaroonie @indiacater @seriouslybadchoices @rainbowsinthestorm @princess-geek @jared2612 @desiree-0816

End Game

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

*****

Cordonian Wags

“What is it?” Riley looked into his eyes, they provided hope. She couldn’t tell him the truth not yet. The future. He is planning our future even after what has happened.

“Erm, the nurse has just advised me to not have sex for a few weeks. That’s all.”

“Ri, I don’t care about sex. Just having you in my life, when we are ninety with a football team of grandkids... that is all I want.” Ninety. Grandkids. Shit. I’m going to break his heart.

“Me too, I’m a bit tired. Why don’t you go and see the others? I bet you are all tired due to rushing here. I’m fine.”

“Okay. I’ll grab a coffee, then I’m not leaving your side.” Kissing her on the forehead, the nurse walked back in as he stood up to leave. Making sure none of her friends were close by, she knew the staff had an inkling regarding the tests they did upon her arrival, and was eager for answers.

“So? Can you explain any more about what we spoke about last night?”

“Miss Brooks, after the examination it does look as if the results will show positive......” Riley felt as if her whole world had come crashing down.

******

One Temptation

Leo picked Riley up with Olivia. Feeling like a gooseberry, she did however feel grateful for them escorting her to the charity event.

“You look amazing Ri. Are you sure you want to go? I can use some lame excuse.” Riley smiled at Leo, taking a deep breath- she nodded her head.

Arriving at the venue, Liam’s eyes widened seeing the trio make their entrance- his gaze mainly focusing on Riley.

“Riley you look beautiful as always. I’ll get you a drink- follow me.” Riley hesitated, Leo noticed her reaction. Even though he was now in a relationship with Olivia, he still deeply cared for Riley and always would do- he would even defend her over his own flesh and blood.

“Oh little brother, you can buy us a drink too if you are feeling generous.”

“I’d appreciate a word alone with Riley if you don’t mind.”

“It’s fine Leo. Enjoy your night with Olivia.”

“If he hurts you or anything, ring me.” Leo whispered, knowing how his brothers personality had changed since Riley had returned to New York. Knowing that Drake hadn’t been invited to the event made her feel like a traitor. Hoping that Liam would just accept friendship and her support for his company was going to be hard to convince him.

“I’m glad you decided to come.” Accepting the drink off him, he noticed her hesitantly drink it.

“Well you did bribe me! I’m not doing this for you. I worked for this company- no matter what happened between us in the past I will support the company.”

“In the past? What about the other night?”

“You took advantage of me. Seeing my bosses eyes light up wafting your wallet around- of course she would agree to your arrangement. I don’t know who you are anymore Liam, money and power has changed you.”

“I’m still me.”

“No you’re not. If you ever loved me, you’d let me go. Let me live my life. Yet you believe you know what’s best for me.”

“Drake isn’t the one for you. You didn’t even know what he did for a living until the baby shower. I can look after you, Alice adores you- all she talks about is you. We can be that family that you always wanted. You can work for me, have your old job back. Please Ri.”

“No. I’m content at the strip club, when arseholes like you don’t come in. I’m going to tell Drake what happened that night, if he doesn’t want anything to do with me - fair enough. If he does, then I am going to go on a date with him as planned. I had a family and I let my child down. Do not try and tell me what I want Liam or what is best for me.”

“We had sex!”

“It meant nothing to me Liam. I was forced into it by you and Rita. Excuse me, I’m going to find Maxwell. Please do not follow me.”

******

The Greatest Show

“Amber, it’s so nice to finally meet you. You are a very hard woman to find.”

“Who are you?”

“I am a private detective. A friend of yours from New York is very concerned about your whereabouts. As far as I can see, you are doing just fine and this has been a waste a time.”

“Who is this friend? What is your name?” Assuming it was Daniel Who was concerned about her- she felt guilty not communicating with him before throwing her SIM card away. Beginning to panic, Bastien placed a comforting arm on her shoulder- providing reassurance that she was safe.

“Brett is worried about you. My name is Nazario. Damien Nazario.”

[msjr0119]

One Temptation

Part 8

*This series is based on The Royal Romance characters who belong to Pixelberry - AU Plot switch*

Riley Brooks moves back to New York after leaving five years prior- struggling to get by in life she wanted to go home. After getting mugged, a woman and man come to her rescue and offer her a job at their strip club. A rich business man Liam Rhys is forced to visit the club as part of his bachelor party. What will happen that night?

Tags-if you want to be removed let me know 😊: @pedudley @kacie-0156 @loveellamae @annekebbphotography @burnsoslow @ladyangel70 @kingliam2019 @bbrandy2002 @butindeed @bascmve01 @drakewalker04 @captain-kingliamsqueen @duchessemersynwalker @drxkewalker @texaskitten30 @ibldw-main @kimmiedoo5 @nikkis1983 @gnatbrain @walker7519 @lodberg @cmestrella @kozabaji @hopefulmoonobject @addictedtodrakefanfic @angi15h @liamxs-world @rafasgirl23415 @notoriouscs @whenyourheartskipsabeat @jovialyouthmusic @nz1091 @yukinagato2012 @seriouslybadchoices @rainbowsinthestorm @cordonianroyalty @dcbbw @qammh-blog @jared2612 @princess-geek @desiree---1986 @indiacater

Finally started this series back up- sorry for the hiatus! To refresh your memories click the link for Part 7. This part is set a few days after the last part ended- showing POV’s from the main characters; Drake, Riley, Liam and Leo. Part 9 will lead on straight from the ending of part 7.

Warnings: Swearing, mention of rape, affair?

*****

Drake walked through the ranch, hoping that Riley had just gone for a stroll- waking up without her this morning made him think back to all that happened in New York as well as their few days in Texas. The thought that had constantly kept crossing her mind was if she was having second thoughts about their relationship. On the road trip down to Texas, she showed a genuine smile- excitement to have a break from New York City and all the drama that had occurred. As the days went by she suddenly became distant with him, every time he asked her what the matter was- she would just respond with the one word answer ‘nothing’.

Returning to the ranch, the coffee aroma flooded the kitchen- he saw his mom and aunt look at him with the same expression- disappointment.

“What?” He questioned the two of them, feeling unwelcome for the first time since he had returned.

“You can do better than her Drake. She left this morning.” Not really comprehending what his mother had just said, he wondered what had happened whilst he hadn’t been around. On occasions he would check the animals, do chores around the ranch, get food in from the shop- leaving Riley to bond with his family. Possibly her future family, in his mind.

“Left? What do you mean?”

“She’s gone back to New York. You obviously don’t mean a lot to her. Or she would have said goodbye.” Leona just shook her head, excusing herself from the situation- knowing that her nephew was about to blow his top.

“Why didn’t you fucking stop her? I’m going.”

“Drake! Stay here. You don’t need her. There’s other women, or should I say another woman.”

“I do need her, and she needs me. I love her. Goodbye mom.”

******

Riley returned to New York, not knowing what her plan was- all she knew was that she needed a new job, that she needed to avoid her friends for a while. The Walkers unknowingly to Drake made her feel unwelcome at every given opportunity.

Are you using my son for his money? Sluts like you will never be loyal partners.

My nephew can do so much better than a stripper. You was probably just lust for him, nothing more.

Thinking about the word slut as Bianca labelled her, made her think about the day after the rape. Did she deserve all that had happened to her?

The day after waking up in Liam’s penthouse, Riley kept watching the video- grimacing every time. The tears wouldn’t stop forming. Assuming Liam didn’t use protection, she knew she had to pay a visit to the hospital or the local clinic but also to the police station. At first she didn’t want to go and report the crime, it was still trying to sink in what had happened- hence why she put herself through the torture of rewatching it.

Walking to the clinic, she wished she had the guts to tell her friends and Drake what had happened. Feeling ashamed, she believed that they would judge her. Not listen to her. Possibly blame her. Would they ask personal questions? Would they ask why she couldn’t stop him, prevent it from happening? Drake. What would he think? Their ‘relationship’ was complicated to say the least. Deep down, Riley was utterly in love with him but wouldn’t admit that anyone- only her drunk drugged mind spoke the truth to her abuser.

Giving her name to the reception, she turned around to sit down- her jaw was agape seeing the ghost from her past gulp at her as they locked eyes.

“What are you doing here?”

“I’m going for a swim, what the fuck do you think I’m doing in a clinic you bimbo?”

“You’ve not changed one bit have you Riley? Still the sarcastic, stubborn little bitch. Did you enjoy your night the other night BELLE?”

“Go away Madeleine, I assume you’re here because you can’t keep your legs closed for more than a second.”

“I’m not a slut, who has a ‘sleepover’ at my house then mentions the word rape infront of my daughter.”

“He raped me Madeleine. I didn’t realise that Alice was there when that word slipped out....I just want to thank you, for everything that you did to me. See you around.” Leaving the clinic, she headed to the police station- hoping that they would believe her.

“I’d like to report an incident. My ex boyfriend raped me and he and my boss drugged me.” The police officer led her into the room, after the interview in the back of her mind she believed that it would be a waste of time. Due to the fact that she wasn’t a reliable witness because of the affect due to the drugs and alcohol- she held on to the hope of the video. Hoping that it would be enough evidence.

“We will arrest Mr Rhys and bring him in for questioning. You was very brave reporting this type of incident, many people are too afraid to do this.”

“Could you wait? His company has a charity event- could you wait until after that? Or do it during that?” The police officer looked at her confused not knowing the reasoning behind the unusual request.

“This could delay court proceedings, you do understand that Miss Brooks?”

“If you arrest him now, he may suspect it. If you do it unexpectedly- he won’t have time to come up with excuses.”

“Very well, but if this backfires it will be your fault. If you change your mind let us know. We will arrest your boss now though.”

If it wasn’t Liam trying to split them up, or Madeline- there was now Drakes family. Whenever Drake walked back into the room, the two women would act differently- as if they were happy that Riley was there.

Walking the streets of New York, she entered every bar asking if there were any vacancies. With no luck, she felt like giving in and just moving out of New York completely.

*****

Over the last few days Leo had become like a sloth, not having the motivation to do anything. Feeling guilty that he had allowed his brother to hurt his friend yet again.

“Why did you do it?” Leo held Liam against the wall, out of the way of prying eyes. At this moment in time, he wanted to kill his brother or at least inflict a slight bit on pain on to him. No pain would be as much as the pain he had put Riley through the years.

“I love her Leo. I fucked up losing her.” Attempting to remove his brother’s hand from his neck, Liam failed as Leo’s grip became tighter every second that went by.

“You don’t fucking rape someone you love!”

“You don’t shag someone who’s your friend. Don’t lie to me, you have feelings towards her too.” Leo released his tight grip knowing what he was referring to. His fling with Riley in Florida.

“It was just sex! If I did have feelings for her, don’t you think that I’d have brought her back. Made us an official couple. Hell, if I was lucky enough to call her my girlfriend I wouldn’t have let her go.”

“So you do like her more than a friend. Why am I surrounded by betrayers? Who’s next? Maxwell? Riley is mine. No one else’s.”

“Yes I do love her. Possibly more than a friend. Happy now? But she doesn’t love me back that way. She loves Drake. Let her be happy- she isn’t yours!”

“And this is why you’re defending her. Acting like the knight in shining armour- hoping that she would fall for you. What would you do? Dump Olivia? I’m glad I raped her, money buys you everything. I’ll get her back.”

“You bastard!”

Beating his brother to a pulp that day of the charity event, Leo felt guilty not informing Riley about the truth. Knowing she would berate him for stooping so low.

“Leo... who’s blood is that on your hands?” Fuck. Leo looked at Riley as Drake held her protectively on the bed. Gulping, he knew he probably shouldn’t have reacted the way he did. Realising that they all need to just ignore Liam’s existence instead.

“It’s my blood. I was so annoyed with Liam- that I punched the wall. Please don’t ever talk to him again. You have all of us. He will pay for what he’s done. I hope you two are very happy together- you deserve it Ri.” Riley looked at him, jumping out of bed- she hugged Leo. Cupping his cheeks, her eyes searched his hoping for some truth and answers.

“You’d tell me if you’d hurt him? Right?” Leo gulped as he nodded, knowing that she possibly had some inkling as to how he had received his injuries.

“He won’t hurt you again. Stay with Drake, he’s a good guy.

*****

Liam had decided to work from home ever since the disastrous charity ball. Losing trust from his clients, this time at home made him think long and hard about his actions. I didn’t want to rape her. I love her.

“You love who daddy?” Not realising that he said those words out loud, he couldn’t lie to his daughter. Even at such a young age, the girls mind was as bright as a button.

“Daddy loves Belle.”

“Is she going to be my new mommy? She was angry with you the other day. I don’t think she loves you.” Kneeling down, he held his daughters hand as he spoke the next words.

“Belle used to love daddy. Before you was born, daddy and Belle lived together.” Thinking back to the times that they shared, they was happy- like love struck teenagers. If it wasn’t for Alice’s existence, he would go back in time if he could. Save his relationship.

“You need to say sorry daddy. That’s what Miss Parkins says at school. She said if you upset someone, you say sorry. See you later.” Taking in Alice’s words, he knew she was right. But he would never admit to anyone that he was in the wrong. That he had gone too far. There was a knock at the door, Liam ran his fingers through his hair as he stood up to answer.

“Come in Gordon, thank you for coming.” The lawyer sat down, sighing at Liam.

“So you’re on bail. I need you to be truthful. Did you rape Riley? And did you harm Leo before you was arrested?”

“And this is why you’re defending her. Acting like the knight in shining armour- hoping that she would fall for you. What would you do? Dump Olivia? I’m glad I raped her, money buys you everything. I’ll get her back.”

“You bastard!” Liam didn't know how Leo threw the first punch, all he remembered was feeling that pain suddenly slamming into his jaw. It happened so quick. Blood pooled in and around his mouth as Leo backed off. They was only apart for a brief moment - possibly to catch their breaths before lurching back towards each other, both sets of baby blues narrowed - both determined to not surrender. Leo has dodged a few fists that Liam threw towards him- until he aimed for his ribs. Falling to the floor, Liam hovered over his brother- pining him to the floor with no escape route.

"Is that all you’ve got big bro? Or can we call it a draw? End it now?” Leo was about to raise his knees to knock Liam off him, as he was feeling like he was being suffocated.

“Liam Rhys I am arresting you on suspicion of rape. You do not have to say anything, but it may harm your defence if you do not mention when questioned something you later rely on in court. Anything you do say may be given in evidence".

Everyone at the event, gasped. The echo filled the room, as did a crowd around the puddles of the brothers blood on the floor. Bastien shook his head, not knowing what to do. Not knowing if the press had managed to catch wind of what was happening.

“Leo! Why would you call them? I’m innocent!” Liam shouted as the police dragged him away.

“I didn’t! Maybe the woman you hurt did that! Rot in hell Liam!” Leo held his ribs, the relief that Liam was about to get some comeuppance was over riding the pain that was lingering.

“Would it sound bad if I admitted to both? You know I love Riley, you have been our families lawyer all my life. I went the wrong way about it all. When she returned, I called off my engagement to Madeleine- all of my feelings for Riley resurfaced. I lost her Gordon.”

“We will work this out Liam. But you need to admit to Riley what you did and apologise. She may drop the charges if you’re truthful with her. Possibly try and rebuild the relationship with your brother. I’ll see you in court. Remember, the truth.”

*****

Drake arrived back in New York, hoping that Riley was going to be in his apartment that he shared with Max - hoping that she was going to jump out from somewhere and shout ‘surprise’. Possibly jump into his arms. Walking through the door, Maxwell just shook his head, sorrow in his eyes. Pulling Drake in for a hug, they both decided to look for her.

*****

It was late at night, Riley was exhausted walking the streets. She believed that her luck was in when she stumbled across a dive bar which was advertising for bar staff. Walking in the stern looking man at the bar, asked her if she wanted a drink.

“I’m here about the job. I’ve worked in a str- bar.” The man looked up and down her body, then focused his eyes on the blonde stood behind her. The top she was wearing flaunted her assets, and the man immediately offered her the job over Riley. Ordering a drink, she gulped it in one. Leaving the bar, she felt defeated- the heavens had opened up and she was now drenched. Continuing to walk down the street, her phone rang constantly. Maxwell. Her heart wanted to answer to answer it immediately, but her stubborn mind refused to acknowledge the importance of the call. Ignoring it, as she pressed reject the phone slipped out of her hand and smashed on the concrete. For fuck sake. Sitting in a puddle, the tears from her eyes were uncontrollably flowing matching the weather- not giving a damn that her clothes were now soaked to the rafters, she believed that karma was hitting her right in the face - not expecting any good luck to appear anytime soon.

“Hey, don’t cry. What’s up?” Looking up at the woman, Riley softly smiled as the woman helped her stand. Wiping her tears and her clothes, she felt like an idiot.

“Thank you.”

“Are you okay?”

“I just need a bed, a job. Is that too much to ask? I’ll do anything. I’m desperate.”

“Well I have vacancies. I own this club.” Looking towards the club entrance, Riley sighed. Great another strip club.

“Can you dance?” I can, it doesn’t mean that I want to though.

“I used to work at Wildcats. I didn’t dance though.”

“The offer is there if you want it. I also have a spare room in my apartment. Look after yourself honey.” Riley stared at the building, not knowing how long for until a decision was made. “Wait!” The woman turned around, smiling at her.

“I’m a fast learner. I’m labelled a slut anyway. I only have $200 to my name.” Laughing at Riley, Gill hated it when people described dancers as sluts- it was a common nickname. But not in her club, the local punters knew that if they took advantage that Gill would possibly place their bodies in a body bag.

“My names Gill. What’s your name?”

“Riley.”

“Come on Riley, come inside before you catch pneumonia.”

*****

Drake pressed the button in the elevator, taking him up to the highest floor. Walking towards the desk, the receptionist looked Drake up and down- wondering who he was and what his intentions were.

“I’m here to see Mr Rhys. Before you ask, no- I haven’t got an appointment.”

“Name?”

“Just tell him his worse nightmare is paying him a visit..” panic was written across the woman’s face, leaning closer towards her desk- her hand hovered over the security button. “Just tell him, it’s Drake.”

Hello Mr Rhys, you have a visitor. His name is Drake.

Hanging up, she explained that Liam would be with them momentarily. Sitting down on the leather chair, Drake was unsure how Liam would react to seeing him- would he throw him out? Would he play mind games?

“Drake. It’s nice to see you.” Not. “Follow me into my office.” Drake followed his instructions, as the two men walked into the room. Liam poured them both a drink, however Drake politely rejected. Not knowing if Liam could have potentially added poison to it as revenge.

“What can I do for you? I never thought I’d see the day that you’d pay me a visit voluntarily.”

“Trust me, I don’t want to be here. I despise you. Have you seen or heard from Riley?”

“No. Why would I hear from her? She wanted to send me to prison for raping her.” Hearing that word, Drake grit his teeth- knowing that Liam was still in denial with his past actions.

“Well you did do that. Listen, you probably know her better than any of us. We need your help. She ran away, she left me in Texas.” Liam laughed in Drakes face, just picturing Riley riding off into the sunset wearing a cowboy hat.

“What did you do?” He asked Drake, assuming he was the reasoning behind her disappearance- from past experience he should know how her mind ticked. She did the same when he hurt her.

“I did nothing, my mom and aunt Leona spoke to her. Then she went cold towards me, and was gone. Do you know anywhere that she could have gone?” Liam now knew the reasoning behind her departure- he was the reason why. Instead of acting like a dick, he felt empathy towards everyone who was looking for her- guilt for his past actions.

“Bianca, this is Liam Rhys- a friend of Drakes.” Bianca recognised the name immediately- clearing her throat, she provided a fake posh accent.

“Hello, Sir. How may I help?”

“Has Drake arrived in Texas yet? His flatmate was just wondering but he’s broken his phone.”

“No not yet. I assume he should be here shortly. I’ll get him to ring you once he arrives.”

“Okay, thank you Mrs Walker. I hope the prostitute he is in a relationship with doesn’t ruin your families reputation. Have a good day.”

“I don’t know where she is Drake. I’m sorry I can’t help you. I’m sorry for everything.” Fuck what have I done? What if she’s gone for good? What if she’s in danger? I’ll have blood on my hands. I knew I shouldn’t have interfered, twisting the truth to Bianca.

“Cut with the shit Liam. You are not sorry for anything that you’ve done. Don’t worry, we will find her, and when we do I hope she has some answers. Liam, stay away from us all.”

“Drake... I’ll get a private detective to search for her. I’ll come to your apartment tomorrow with any updates.” Drake just wanted to punch him for his past actions, however if this was the only way they could find her he would be civil for now.

“Can I trust you?”

“Yes. I swear on Alice’s life. We all love Riley. If she’s in trouble, she will need you. I now understand that I’ve lost her and that she loves you. I’m sorry Drake.” Placing his hand out towards Drake, he wasn’t sure if Liam was being sincere. Not being able to trust him just yet, he just turned around and left the building.

*****

The day after, Drake and Maxwell began pacing the room- both frustrated that they hadn’t found Riley. Both frustrated that her phone kept going immediately to voicemail every time they attempted to ring her.

“Will you both just sit down. You’re both going to injure yourselves somehow.” Leo said, watching the two of them. There was a knock at the door- the three of them all ran towards the door, hoping that it was Riley. Drake knew if it wasn’t Riley it would be Liam, as he promised. Opening the door, he pushed Leo away- not knowing how he would react, not wanting another fight to break out. He understood Leo’s anger, but at this moment in time they all needed to hold the anger back.

“What the fuck is he doing here?” Leo questioned Drake and Maxwell as Liam walked through the door.

“I come in peace.” Liam said sarcastically, holding his hands up in the air.

“Get the fuck out of here before I kill you!”

“Leo, leave him. Have you got any news Liam?” Leo looked at Drake confused, wondering if he had forgotten what Liam had done to the woman that Drake loved.

“She’s working at another strip club. Downtown. The Phoenix.” Liam sighed at he waited for the men to respond. Drake grabbed his coat, whilst searching the clubs details on google.

“I swear to god if you’re lying Liam, you won’t need to worry about Leo killing you....”

“I’m not Drake. The limo is outside. Bastien will take us all.”

*****

There was silence in the limo on route to the club, Maxwell tried to break the silence with stupid jokes until he realised that no one was interested. Walking into the club, they was greeted by Gill who assisted them to a booth- followed by a tray of shots.

“If you need anything else gentlemen, the girls will be walking around - just ask them for anything that you may require. You’re just in time for the main event. Enjoy.” The lights dimmed, and music began to play. Men, who they assumed were regular punters gathered around the stage- all retrieving their wallets out of their pockets. As the woman strut down the stage, she gripped onto the cold steel pole, climbing up on the pole- she immediately spun around gracefully. Sliding down and eventually coming off the pole, she walked closer to the older men- removing her dress, she stood in front of them wearing just her lacy underwear- her breasts in full view, as well as her high heels. Teasing them, she provided sexual movements as they threw money towards her.

“Erm, Drake?” Leo narrowed his eyes realising who it was. They all looked towards the stage- Seeing their friend degrade herself. Noticing one man try to unclip her bra, Drake stood up abruptly. Pushing through the crowd, he stood on stage and carried her over his shoulder. Liam noticed Gill run over, distracting the woman with money as bribery- he explained why Drake did what he did, causing a riot between the punters. Gill refused to take his money and suggested to take Riley out into the back room.

Drake put her down, surrounded by men ‘booing’- potentially about to cause a fist fight with him for ruining the entertainment. Before that could happen Liam grabbed Riley’s hand and dragged her into the back room, with the others following. Folding her arms, they all surrounded her scowling at her- covering her body up, she was unsure as to why she was doing this. All of them have seen me like this before, three of them have slept with me. Fuck I am a slut. Why do they look so pissed? Two of them have broken my heart, the other two are just my friends.

“What?” She snapped at them all, after coming out of her thoughts- leaving the lingering questions roam through her mind.

“Care to explain what’s going off?” Leo asked in a stern tone of voice, knowing that Drake was in a state of shock once his adrenaline rush had deteriorated.

“Well I’m a slut. So may as well act like one.” Shaking his head, Drake wondered why she was talking about herself in such a manner- looking at the other men he could read that they was probably wondering the same.

“Why did you leave me in Texas?”

“It was too hard to say goodbye, your family hate me. They said I was using you for your money; they called me a slut, they said I was a stripper- which at the time I wasn’t, I’m not good enough for you. So I made their words become a reality.” Empathising the word slut, until the morning that she left Texas she was sure that they had a future together.

“Riley, you have three men stood in front of you who love you. Quit, and make at least one of us happy.” They all faced Liam as he said this, only Leo and Liam knew who the third man was. Leo. Hoping that she assumed the third man was Maxwell, Leo needed to change the subject- change his sheepish expression that was brewing into something that wouldn’t expose his secret.

“I think, Riley and Drake need to talk alone. Don’t you think Liam and Max?” Riley’s eyes pleaded with Leo for them not to leave- she would rather have four men berate her than be alone with the man who she abandoned without saying a word to prior to leaving.

“I’ll be back in a minute.” She whimpered, as she made a move towards the door Drake put his hand on to her bare skin.

“Oh no. You are not running away from me again. I need answers. I love you, why is that so hard for you to understand?”

“I was just going to get dressed Drake. I love you too.”

“Then come back with me. Please.”

“I can’t Drake. Your mom and aunt.. they... they told me to leave you and to never see you again. Somebody rung them and told them that you was dating a prostitute. They offered me $10k to leave that morning I left but I didn’t accept it.” Ten grand? They haven’t even got that type of money. Drake knew exactly who had that type of money, someone who wanted Riley all to himself. Was all of his ‘sincere’ words that he mentioned fake? Did Liam actually pay his family off as he threatened to do all those months ago. “They said that I wasn’t good enough for you, and that you would eventually forget me, forget about New York and return to Texas. Before I left they introduced me to someone. I’m a slut, I’m Madeleine. You’re Liam. Go back to Texas Drake, go back to your fiancée.”

[msjr0119]

WIP 01/04/20

Thanks for the tag @loveellamae @pedudley @kacie-0156 @annekebbphotography 😘😘😘

Okay, so I’m going to be quiet for the next few days as I’m back at work - it’ll give you all some peace and quiet 😆

I’ve mainly been working on my new series because during self isolation for the last two weeks I basically wrote the full series as a draft form. But in between I have been working on other series.

Ps... if you’ve tagged me in anything I will catch up Friday night 🇬🇧 time ❤️🥰😘

*****

The Unexpected Roommate

Riley arrived at Macy’s bang on eleven am. Usually she would arrive early, punctuality was important to her. On her way there, her mind was in a daze- flashbacks of her rendezvous with Drake wouldn’t disappear.

Noticing her friend waiting outside, she knew Olivia was about to berate her.

“I thought that you’d ditched me for Walker’s cock.” Feeling the blush appear on her face, she didn’t want this conversation to elaborate.

“Not now, Liv.”

“Seriously, Riley. Why him?”

“He’s a good fuck, I suppose?” Olivia shuddered at the thought. Not wanting to think about her arch-enemy any longer, she changed the subject.

“You know, Liam is coming back for the wedding.”

“Well I hope so, he’s the grooms brother.” She responded sarcastically- just wishing that they could go inside, choose a dress and leave.

“Obviously. But he’s single.” Nudging her friend, she would do anything to see her happy- anything apart from push her towards Drake.

”Olivia. Stop right there. I’m not interested in Liam. I never was.”

*****

We Belong

“Mrs Walker.”

That will be you soon, Liam whispered in her ear.

I’ll be the better Mrs Walker, your Majesty. Winking at him, they both laughed hoping that she didn’t hear them.

“Evangeline. Your Majesty. Where are my children? I need them.”

“Why did you go on a hunger strike Bianca?” Liam asked in an authoritative tone of voice. He was a busy man- he didn’t have time to pussyfoot around the woman who clearly wasn’t sane.

“I feel empty without my children... I need them. I don’t want to die.”

“Maybe you should have thought about that before? You’ve caused too much hurt for everyone! You could have killed Evie!” Evie placed her hand on to Liam’s arm, her eyes pleaded with him to calm down- she was grateful for him defending her. But he didn’t need to waste another single breath on her.

“I’m sorry Evie...” Pausing she noticed the jewellery on her left hand. “Are you wearing Pats ring?”

“Yes, myself and Drake are engaged. We love each other, and you are not going to hurt us anymore.”

“Bianca, I will try and get your ‘children’ to say goodbye to you. Your sentencing is scheduled for next week. I’ll see you prior to that.”

“Liam, please. I need them. They need me.”

“They’ve done well without you. Savannah has Bertrand and Bartie. Drake has Evie. Goodbye Bianca.” Liam held his hand out towards Evie, encouraging her to leave with him.

“Evie, stay with me.”

“It’s fine Liam, I won’t be long..” Kissing her on the cheek, she noticed that Liam had left the door open slightly ajar. Mainly to have access to barge in for any emergency.

“What?”

“Convince Liam to release me and drop the sentencing. I’ll do whatever I need to do. I’ll support you all. You’re going to be family. My family. Please. I’ll stop drinking. I’ll get help.”

“It’s not Liam that you have to convince. It’s myself. As well as the council. I was ready to help you, then you maliciously informed me about my miscarriage. You show no remorse for anything that you have done or continue to keep doing. My parents took in your children for months. How do you repay them? By killing them. How do you repay the royal family for taking over my parents roles? Attempting to kill them all.”

“I am so sorry. I don’t deserve anything, please reconsider my life. If it was Drake with your parents what would you want him to do?”

“Don’t bring my parents in to this. They were good people! I was already saving your life, it was the council that wasn’t. I wanted to help you because you are the mother of the man that I love. You took my parents away from me, as well as our chance of being parents. I’ve got nothing more to say to you Bianca.” Reaching out to her, she held onto Evie’s hand with a tight grip. Bianca needed to tell someone. Anyone. The thing that had made her go crazy in the cold damp cell.

“Evie... I saw Jackson. At the wedding.”

“So you was drunk? The only person who can help you, is yourself. You have a week to prove that. You need help if you are seeing your deceased husband.”

“I wasn’t drunk! I heard his voice. He was there! I swear!”

*****

One Temptation

“I spy with my little eye- baby daddy running down the stairs.” Riley looked towards the stairs leading up to the hotel lobby, as Maxwell said this- her heart fluttered seeing him.

“Let’s get out of here, I’m taking you home. See you at home Max, I won’t be long.”

“Oh I have a date. I’m not sure if I’ll be home tonight. See ya later guys.”

“I’m going to shoot too. Shall we meet up one day? For lunch? All of us?” Drake and Riley agreed with Leo’s suggestion. Standing close to the edge of the kerb, Drake hailed a cab for the two of them.

“Do you want some company? I’ll let Gill know where I am.” A smile crept on to his face, informing the driver of the address- he sat next to her, reaching for her hand she accepted. Their fingers intertwined, both feeling content within each other’s company.

“You look handsome in a suit by the way. Why didn’t you wear the full suit inside?”

“It was far too warm. It’s not my style. You know me, I’m just a casual kind of guy.”

“You’re my kind of guy... excuse me, I’ve got a text.”

Don’t worry about it babe, I’m actually on a date anyway- with a very young handsome man.

“What’s up?” Drake asked concerned.

“Oh, nothing. Gill is on a date tonight, so probably wouldn’t have been in anyway.”

****

Tags- Just tagging combined tag list, if you want to play along ☺️

@yukinagato2012 @burnsoslow @i-bloody-love-drake-walker @cordonianroyalty @kingliam2019 @bascmve01 @texaskitten30 @kimmiedoo5 @walker7519 @lodberg @cmstella @addictedtodrakefanfic @hopefulmoonobject @queenjilian @addictedtodrakefanfic @ladyangel70 @nikkis1983 @liamxs-world @rafasgirl23415 @notoriouscs @rainbowsinthestorm @jared2612 @desireepow-1986 @twinkle-320 @bebepac @drakewalkerisreal

[msjr0119]

Belated WIP/Six sentence Sunday (it’s Sunday in the Uk 🇬🇧)

Thanks for the tag on Wednesday @loveellamae

I’ve been very quiet recently due to personal issues, but I’ve tried catching up with all my series, so are posting the bits that I’ve done below. Thank you to everyone who has asked how I’m doing - love you all 💕

Tags:

@pedudley @kacie-0156 @annekebbphotography @burnsoslow @ladyangel70 @kingliam2019 @bbrandy2002 @butindeed @bascmve01 @drakewalker04 @drxkewalker @captain-kingliamsqueen @duchessemersynwalker @kozabaji @texaskitten30 @ibldw-main @kimmiedoo5 @nikkis1983 @gnatbrain @walker7519 @lodberg @cmestrella @hopefulmoonobject @addictedtodrakefanfic @angi15h @liamxs-world @rafasgirl23415 @notoriouscs @yukinagato2012 @dcbbw @qammh-blog @nz1091 @cordonianroyalty @custaroonie @seriouslybadchoices @rainbowsinthestorm @princess-geek @jared2612 @desiree---1986 @gardeningourmet @twinkle-320 @queenjilian @forthebrokenheartedthings-blog @princessleac1 @scarletreesex @indiacater

*****

Cordonian Wags (can’t believe I haven’t posted since December 😱)

The Apples do not need anymore drama within the club- it looks as though Walker is arguing with his manager.

It’s such a shame that such a good match has come to this- I wonder what the argument is about? Walker has played well, but I’ve seen that he hasn’t been on the ball- get it?

Good pun- yes, even though he’s scored a hat trick his eyes have been scrutinising elsewhere around the stadium.

“Get back on the pitch, Walker!” Bertrand snapped towards Drake, he hated being stern towards him as he was his brother in law- but for some reason he was jeopardising the game.

“No!”

“Excuse me?”

“You heard me Bertrand. Riley’s not well.... I saw her run off...she needs me.”

“She’s just been sick. This match is important... is she pregnant?”

“No! And Riley is more important to me than a stupid match....”

“Tell me what’s up with her, then we can determine what is more important!” She’s got cancer you fucking moron.

“Just take me off, I’ve done enough in this match....” Bertrand grabbed Drake by the collar- his grip was tight, not knowing what had got into him- he witnessed the team walk over attempting to calm the situation down.

“Get the fuck off of me Bertrand! I quit!”

******

One Temptation

Drake pressed the button in the elevator, taking him up to the highest floor. Walking towards the desk, the receptionist looked Drake up and down- wondering who he was and what his intentions were.

“I’m here to see Mr Rhys. Before you ask, no- I haven’t got an appointment.”

“Name?”

“Just tell him his worse nightmare is paying him a visit..” Panic was written across the woman’s face, leaning closer towards her desk- her hand hovered over the security button. “Just tell him, it’s Drake.”

Hello Mr Rhys, you have a visitor. His name is Drake.

Hanging up, she explained that Liam would be with them momentarily. Sitting down on the leather chair, Drake was unsure how Liam would react to seeing him- would he throw him out? Would he play mind games?

“Drake. It’s nice to see you.” Not. “Follow me into my office.” Drake followed his instructions, as the two men walked into the room. Liam poured them both a drink, however Drake politely rejected. Not knowing if Liam could have potentially added poison to it as revenge.

“What can I do for you? I never thought I’d see the day that you’d pay me a visit voluntarily.”

“Trust me, I don’t want to be here. I despise you. Have you seen or heard from Riley?”

“No. Why would I hear from her? She wanted to send me to prison for raping her.” Hearing that word, Drake grit his teeth- knowing that Liam was still in denial with his past actions.

“Well you did do that. Listen, you probably know her better than any of us. We need your help. She ran away, she left me in Texas.” Liam laughed in Drakes face, just picturing Riley riding off into the sunset wearing a cowboy hat.

“What did you do?” He asked Drake, assuming he was the reasoning behind her disappearance- from past experience he should know how her mind ticked. She did the same when he hurt her.

“I did nothing, my mom and aunt Leona spoke to her. Then she went cold towards me, and was gone. Do you know anywhere that she could have gone?” Liam now knew the reasoning behind her departure- he was the reason why. Instead of acting like a dick, he felt empathy towards everyone who was looking for her- guilt for his past actions.

“Bianca, this is Liam Rhys- a friend of Drakes.” Bianca recognised the name immediately- clearing her throat, she provided a fake posh accent.

“Hello, Sir. How may I help?”

“Has Drake arrived in Texas yet? His flatmate was just wondering but he’s broken his phone.”

“No, not yet. I assume he should be here shortly. I’ll get him to ring you once he arrives.”

“Okay, thank you Mrs Walker. I hope the prostitute he is in a relationship with doesn’t ruin your families reputation. Have a good day.”

******

Hold my girl

Freya stormed out of the ballroom, not knowing why. Both her and Drake had confessed their feelings towards each other in New York, they had both agreed to a long distance relationship. So, to see him so close to the mystery woman was like a stab to the heart.

What am I even doing here? She muttered to herself.

“Freya!” Ignoring him, she ran off to her room- not looking back as she wiped her tears. Liam has suggested going to speak to her instead along with Maxwell for moral support, whilst drake took the time to ‘chill out’ before he put his foot in his mouth again.

“Blossom?” Maxwell said softly, as the two men waited for her to answer the door. “Lady Freya, we just want to make sure that you are okay?”

Opening the door, the two of them had sorrow in their eyes- both pulling her towards them for a group hug.

“I’m sorry. Liam, stop calling me lady please. I’m not in your court anymore. I’m just an American nurse now. Not a suitor, or a Duchess, or a Cordonian.”

“Frey, you are a Cordonian even if not officially- you’re a Beaumont, always will be. That woman...”

“Don’t Max... I don’t want to hear it. I thought we had something good- was all the words he said to me a lie? Did he use me for sex? I don’t know what to think. It was Drake who suggested the long distance thing- insisting it would work because he loves me. Maybe he should have just stayed as a jerk!” The two men knew that Drake wouldn’t hurt her, Maxwell soon had a smile appear on his face- a mischievous look, that look made Liam’s mind work overtime, wondering what the lord was thinking.

“Freya, grab some things and meet me in my room. Slumber party time, Beaumont’s only- sorry, Liam. No invite for you.”

“I’m busy anyway, no need for an apology. Goodnight Freya, I’ll see you tomorrow.” Kissing her on the cheek, Maxwell mimicked the king’s actions before following him out of the room.

A couple of hours had passed, and there was no sign of Freya. Maxwell just assumed that she had fallen asleep- walking out of his room towards hers, he noticed her door was slightly ajar.

“Frey?” Scrutinising the room, his heart sunk as realisation hit him like a ton of bricks.

She’s gone.

*****

Return to New York

Liam shouted for the guard to allow his visitors into his study- turning to face them he was shocked as to why the familiar person was here, and not with Riley.

“Daniel. It’s nice to see you again.” Is he here visiting? Like on a vacation? These questions were soon knocked out of mind as he heard the tiny patter of footsteps enter the room. Libby? Lydia? Lily? Fuck what’s her name again? What’s she doing here?

“I wish I could say the same, your Majesty. I’m sorry to disturb you. Do you know where Riley is? I can’t seem to get in touch with her.”

“I’m not sure of her exact location, but I have an inkling of where that might be. I don’t mean to sound rude, but why is she here? Shouldn’t she be with her father?” Daniel sighed, not knowing how to explain the reason for the impromptu visit. Asking the guard to escort the young girl out- he didn’t want to upset her anymore than she was already.

“Lissy, she lost her father. When Riley ditched him at the wedding- he became drunk, he got into his car.... he had a crash, and didn’t survive. He was upset, humiliated that Riley couldn’t talk to him herself. Lissy has no one, she’s going to go into care if Riley....”

“If Riley what?” Liam interrupted, he had an inkling about what Daniel was going to say- but really hoped that he was incorrect.

*****

We Belong

My dearest Evie, I’m so sorry for all the pain I caused you. I always loved you, I was stupid to let a diamond like you go- all for the sake of nothing. I had hoped in time that you’d forgive me, I killed the man who tried to rape you- the man who you would cry in your sleep about. Stupidly I believed once you knew my true identity that we could get back together. I was part of a troupe, going against the crown- Bianca and Anton had reasons. I didn’t. I was just in it for the money- the money that I would have used to shower you with gifts, to pay for your dream wedding that we imagined. I didn’t mean to stab you, Bianca pushed you into me- id never hurt you again. I still don’t know if you survived or not, no one will inform me. I was an idiot. I can’t live without you knowing that it was always you- if you survived, I hope you find true happiness. Happiness that you deserve. Liam is in danger, Anton goes by a fake name known as Justin. He is Riley’s press secretary. I need you to tell someone, to protect my old friend and his family. I’m so sorry for everything I’ve done. But now I’ve told you this, I have no choice but to end my life. Toby xo

*****

The Greatest Show

“Ri?” Amber questioned, assuming she was hallucinating- seeing her friend stood in front of her. Liam held onto Riley’s waist, looking adorably towards her.

“Surprise!” Riley shouted enthusiastically, waving her hands in the air.

“I’m confused, what the hell are you doing here? Why are you so close together? Liam have you forgotten about Olivia?”

“I’ve no got amnesia, Amber. Olivia has been in a relationship with Leo, behind my back. I’m no angel, as I fell in love with Riley whilst I was supposed to be courting Liv.” Amber was trying to allow this information to sink in, trying to figure out what exactly was going to occur due to the burden being her friend.

“Well I’m happy to see you Ri, lets hope you don’t get stabbed...” Riley’s eyes widened, but Liam laughed knowing exactly what she was referring to- or who.

“I’ll see you both tomorrow? I’ve got one tall, dark, handsome commoner waiting for me...” Making her way out of the room, she quickly turned to the two of them. “Oh Ri, thanks for bringing Jackson- I’ve missed him so much, and he’s missed his Mom like you said on the note.” Before Riley could react, Amber had shot out of the door. But I didn’t bring Jackson.

Exiting the room, Amber couldn’t wait to get back to Drake- mainly to explain the new court gossip to him. Feeling arms go around her waist, she smiled- turning around, that smile soon disappeared in a flash.

“Thought you’d escape me, did you?

*****

Hold on (follow up)

“Brooks....” Feeling like this was a waste of time, Drake decided that the best option was to walk away, as she wasn’t responding. Jackson placed a hand onto his father’s shoulder, suggesting that Drake should leave. Listening to his son’s advise, he left in a swift motion- frustrated that he couldn’t persuade her to come out of her hovel and just talk.

“Aunt Ri?” Jackson said softly as he knocked on the door. Riley knew she was being stubborn whenever a visitor would knock on the door- but for some reason she could never ignore her children, or her friends children.

“Jackson.” Smiling at his auntie, he pulled her in for a hug. “What can I do for you?”

“Have a walk? Or just a little talk with me? We all miss you, and want to help you through it. Dad just wants to grieve with you. You could help each other?”

“You’re only twenty one Jackson, you should be out with your friends- enjoying life. Don’t take a minute for granted. Loving each day as if it’s your last.” Listening to her words, he knew what she was referring to. His heart sunk, the usual poised Queen stood in front of him absolutely broken. “I miss him so much Jackson, and I miss your mom too. Each day that goes by, doesn’t get any easier. I need to be strong for Ayah, Louis and Ellie but truth be told- they are so much stronger than I am.”

[msjr0119]

One Temptation

Part 4

*This new series is based on The Royal Romance characters who belong to Pixelberry - AU Plot switch*

Riley Brooks moves back to New York after leaving five years prior- struggling to get by in life she wanted to go home. After getting mugged, a woman and man come to her rescue and offer her a job at their strip club. A rich business man Liam Rhys is forced to visit the club as part of his bachelor party. What will happen that night?

Warnings: Swearing, Smut, drunk antics 🤣

Tags-if you want to be removed let me know 😊: @annekebbphotography @burnsoslow @drakesensworld @ladyangel70 @kingliam2019 @bbrandy2002 @butindeed @bascmve01 @drakewalker04 @pedudley @captain-kingliamsqueen @duchessemersynwalker @insideamirage @of-course-i-went-to-hartfeld @kozabaji @texaskitten30 @ibldw-main @kimmiedoo5 @nikkis1983 @dangerouseggseagleartisan @gnatbrain @walker7519 @lodberg @cmestrella @hopefulmoonobject @addictedtodrakefanfic @angi15h @liamxs-world @rafasgirl23415 @notoriouscs @whenyourheartskipsabeat @jovialyouthmusic @nz1091 @yukinagato2012 @indiacater @seriouslybadchoices @rainbowsinthestorm @cordonianroyalty @dcbbw @qammh-blog @beardedoafdonutwagon @jared2612 @princess-geek

*******

Liam walked towards the strip club- not knowing exactly why. Forcing himself to see the girl who’s heart he broke all those years ago.

Liam entered his penthouse after work, noticing the light off- he switched it on. Jumping out of his skin- he didn’t know that Madeleine was there.

“Why are you sitting in the dark? You scared me.”

“Care to inform me as to why Alice is going out with Leo tomorrow?”

“He’s her uncle! It’s about time that he knew about her and spent time with her!”

“You went behind my back Liam!”

“So what DARLING? You and me are over... I’m fighting for full custody and I want you to leave as soon as possible. You are nothing to me apart from the mother of my child. You were the biggest mistake of my life.”

“Good luck with that!”

“I beg your pardon.”

“You heard me Liam, how do you even know that she’s yours?” Madeleine smirked knowing she was getting under his skin. Sipping the glass of wine- she laughed in his face. “When she was conceived, I was still sleeping with your brother remember. Except I knew that you’d be the better option to be a father...”

“You are despicable. You should stop drinking. Alice is mine whether you like it or not.”

“She may not be... did you know Riley had a pregnancy scare when you cheated on her with me?” Liam’s heart sunk, he had only ever imagined a family with Riley. Assuming that Madeleine was lying with what she had just said- his fists clenched.

“You are sick, a disgusting vile creature Madeleine. I’ll see you in court!”

After his argument with Madeleine there were doubts racing through his mind about the true paternity of Alice. If Alice wasn’t his daughter- he had nothing to lose, he knew he’d win back Riley. Surely? Noticing Riley, he walked straight over to her.

“Hello Riley.”

“Oh hi. Please don’t cause any trouble Liam after the last time you was here.”

“I won’t I promise, I just need a drink, and a friend.”

“I’m working Liam, I can’t talk much.” Reaching over to grab her hand, she fixated her gaze on him. He looked broken.

“I’ll ask if I can have my break. I’ll meet you over by the booth.” Watching him walk of to the booth, she noticed his face fall into his hands. She wasn’t a bitch, before they began dating they were close friends- if he was sincere about his intentions of being there, she would talk to him as a friend.

“So what’s up?” Sliding a scotch towards him, she provided a soft smile.

“I don’t think my daughter is mine, she said she slept with Leo around the same time.”

“Maybe the two of you need to learn how to put something on the end of it? I’m sorry Liam, but this is karma for you.” A sly smirk appeared on her face, but she couldn’t bitch about Madeleine when she herself had slept with the two brothers.

“Don’t you see? If she isn’t mine, we can start again? I’ll make it up to you a thousand times over. I know you still love me and could forgive me deep down Ri.”

“I do still love you- I’ve never denied that. But...” Liam forced his lips on to hers, expecting for her to slap him he was confused when she didn’t. Deepening the kiss, he placed his arms around her- he had missed her. Not giving two fucks that Drake had escaped, he knew he wasn’t with Maxwell so he had gone elsewhere.

“Bastien? What the fuck? Where is he?”

“I don’t know? I’m sorry, I must have fallen asleep.”

“For fucks sake!” Storming over to Maxwell’s, he banged on the door. Hoping that Drake was there.

“Liam? Can I help you?”

“Is Drake here?”

“Why would be here? He’s in Texas isn’t he?” Maxwell knew what Liam had done, and he knew to not keep Drake at their apartment- not only for Drake’s safety but also for his.

“Can I check that he isn’t here at least?”

“I’m not stupid liam, but sure check every crevice if you need to. If you do find him please do let me know .”

Knowing she didn’t resist the kiss, he was making it his aim to win her back.

“Liam, I’m so sorry. That shouldn’t have happened. It can’t happen again. I think you should leave.” Touching her lips with her fingertips, she immediately regretted what she had just done. Feeling frustrated with herself, she couldn’t make eye contact with him.

“Ri, I felt something that I haven’t in a long time. Please just give me a chance.”

“I can’t Liam I’m sorry. Please.”

“Okay, I’m sorry Riley. I do love you- I always have and I always will do.” Holding her hand he had hoped that she would see that he was telling the truth- he knew he had messed up. Opening her mouth she was about to respond breaking his heart, knowing she could never forget what he had done.

“Liam?”

“Leo? What are you doing here?”

“I could ask you the same. Are you okay Ri?”

“Yes, I’ll be ready in an hour Leo. Goodbye Liam.” To avoid the awkwardness, she gave Liam a quick hug before returning to work.

“What are you playing at Leo? Ready in an hour?”

“I’m taking her out with Max. She’s been down since Drake left- I assume that was down to you?” Folding his arms, his eyebrows raised- wondering what wonderful bullshit Liam would produce out of his constant lying mouth.

“Maybe you are right. I need her back, Drake was in the way. She kissed me back- she loves me.”

“You lost her a long time ago- you didn’t see how broken she was- who was there picking up the pieces? Me! I care about her, she’s one of my closest friends. Get Drake back now!”

“What do you mean you picked up the pieces? I can’t- I don’t know where he is.”

“Oh Liam, whilst you was fucking Madeleine. I went to find the apparent love of your life- I found her. I spent a week with her trying to convince her to come back.”

Leo arrived in Florida six months after Riley abruptly left New York, not knowing exactly where Riley would be- he needed a miracle. He had heard in the past of her talking about her Gran in Tampa Bay. It would be like finding a needle in a haystack.

After a few days of searching for her- he had given up hope. Sitting down at the fountain in Hyde Village- he had given up hope. Wishing she wasn’t stubborn and kept in touch with the people who cared for her. Believing it was his imagination, he stood up seeing the brunette walk past him.

“Riley Brooks.” Turning around slowly, she recognised that familiar voice- the colour drained from her face as if she had seen a ghost.

“L- Leo? What are you doing here?”

“I could kill you at times Missy- we’ve all missed you. It’s a free country, I don’t have to explain why I’m here. How are you doing?”

“I’m better, thank you. How are you? You look more toned.”

“Do you like what you see? It’s what single life does to you... sends you to the gym.” Winking at her, he always flirted with her in the past- it was typical Leo.

“You look good Leo, but I have to go. My Gran is expecting me.”

“Let me take you out tonight please.” Looking into his piercing eyes, she couldn’t resist saying no to one of her best friends- in the back of her mind she was contemplating what his true intentions were for showing up unexpectedly.

“Leo, I’m not interested in Liam. If that’s why you’re here.”

“No, I’m here as a friend.”

“Oh sorry. No funny business though alright Leo? Don’t be getting us into trouble.” Remembering back to the good old days, Leo nearly got them all arrested one night- laughing at the memory she knew if she refused he would be persistent in persuading her to reconsider.

“I can’t promise that.”

“Come back with me then we will go out. I just need to give her her medication and make her some food, change her catheter...”

“Is that why you left? I didn’t realise she was that poorly.”

“No, I left because of Madeleine and Liam- I didn’t realise either until I arrived. Come with me to my grans?” Leo nodded, Riley suggested this as she didn’t want to arrange meeting him somewhere that he wasn’t used to.

Walking to Riley’s grans, Leo’s heart sunk watching Riley fuss over her gran- she was selfless and attentive.

“So where are you wining and dining me Rhys?” Riley was used to Liam treating her to five star Michelin restaurants- she didn’t really appreciate the grand gestures as she was more of a greasy junk food type of girl.

“That is upto you... I’ll let you decide.”

“I know the place, come upstairs with me whilst I get ready- I don’t want you feeling awkward.” Leo covered his eyes as she got herself ready just to provide her with a bit of dignity. He was tempted to peek, but respected her more.

“Whatcha think?”

“You’re beautiful... Erm... I didn’t... I ... you look good Ri.”

“Why Leo, I’ve never seen you this flustered before. Are you okay? Come on....”

“So I know you don’t want to talk about him- but how are you feeling regarding him.”

“I’m still heartbroken, I cry myself to sleep every night- every time I close my eyes I see her smirk in my mind. I just need to move on- have a rebound, get over him.”

“I’ll make you a deal- we will help each other pull tonight, they both fucked us over- we both need to release.”

“Deal!”

After a meal, they headed over to a bar. Leo did his usual trick attempting to pull- it wasn’t working as he had expected it to. Riley sat the bar witnessing him failing - laughing to herself she felt sorry for him. Ordering them both another drink- Leo disappeared out of her view, smiling she had hoped that he had finally pulled. Someone tapped her on the shoulder.

“Hey beautiful, are you alone.”

“Yes. No. I’m with a friend.”

“Shame. Are you single? You know if you are I could change that?” Feeling his warm breath linger in her ear- her skin crawled.

“Sorry, I really need to go. Nice meeting you.” ‘Not’, she muttered.

“Don’t go, I haven’t got started yet!”

“Get your hands off me you creep!” Leo returned from the bathroom, seeing the commotion- witnessing Riley slap the man.

“Hey, are you okay? Hey mate get your hands off my girl.”

“She gave me the impression that she was single.”

“Not anymore.” Leo cupped her cheeks forcing a kiss on her lips- Riley knew it was for show so decided to go along with it hoping the creep would move into his next victim.

“You okay?” Pulling her towards him, he watched the man walk away- hoping he wouldn’t bother Riley again, as he would sure teach him a lesson in how to respect women.

“Just peachy Leo, thank you. Why do I always attract the bad eggs?” She laughed trying to make a joke out of the bad situation.

“At least you pull. How about we go back to my hotel room and raid the mini bar? No creeps involved.” Heading towards the exit, she turned around wondering why he was hesitating leaving.

“What are you still doing here? Come on Rhys.” Holding her hand out towards him, he eventually snapped out of his gaze- and led her to the hotel.

Arriving at the hotel room, they decided to play drinking games both becoming intoxicated far too quickly. Both laughing like the old days- they collapsed on the couch, she had missed Leo as well as Maxwell and Bertrand. Hoping that eventually she could return back to New York.

“We should have just stayed here- avoided you pulling creeps, avoided me becoming embarrassed at the lack of pulling.” Snuggling into him, she laughed- they were both useless.

“Do you ever think about what our futures would have been like if they didn’t cheat on us?” Leo looked at her, noticing that her smile had soon disappeared- seeing the tears fall down her cheeks, he caressed both cheeks.

“Well I’d have potentially been in prison for murdering her. I think you and Liam would have been married, had kids- I’d be the cool wind up merchant uncle.”

“The biggest wind up merchant. I’ve missed you Leo- you’re still one of my closest friends.”

“Likewise Brooks. Do you miss him? I don’t miss her one bit.”

“Of course I do. I’m just sexually frustrated as I still love him. I wish I could forgive and forget -but I can’t. If I did he would do it all over and over again. He would continue to make a mug out of me.”

Leo too was sexually frustrated, an idea popped into his head but he knew she would potentially slap him as she was in that kind of mood.

“He was an idiot letting you go. Please don’t slap me, but I have a suggestion. How about you and I... help each other... no strings attached. I’m here for a week or so...”

“Why would I slap you?”

“Because you may think that I’m using you- but you admitted that you are sexually frustrated as am I... we can just you know.” Riley always thought Leo was attractive- he was a Rhys after all. She wasn’t sure if it was the alcohol or the desire to just have sex that made her crash her lips onto him.

“Have you got a condom?” She asked breathlessly.

“Of course I do... just for precaution.”

Leo turned to face her, knowing he was now the one breaking the brother code- no matter how appalling Liam was towards her, he was still his brother- his brother who betrayed both him as well as her. Hesitantly pulling her towards him- he didn’t know what to expect as she was one of his closest friends. He believed that she was beautiful, there was no denying that. In the back of his mind, they were both each other’s rebound- no strings. But he didn’t care- if they could both make each other happy as friends with benefits- he was intending on doing it. Both their heartbeats increasing, they both closed the distance, matching baby blues containing desire. Their lips crashed onto each other’s as if their lives depended on it. His tongue slid across her cherry bud lips before entering inside her mouth, starting off gentle but soon turned demanding- their tongues battling against each other. Riley’s fingers ran through his hair - knowing it was just sex, she inhaled the familiar scent, it was as if she was sleeping with Liam again. Leo’s hands held her hips, pulling her closer to his muscled chest.

The kisses became more passionate as the time went by. Leading her over to the bed, they stripped each other’s clothes off eagerly- pausing to admire each other’s bodies. Falling backwards on to the bed she pulled him down towards her.

“ Are you sure about this Ri?”

“Yes. Stop teasing me Leo. We both need this.” Not sure if it was the alcohol that made her feel intoxicated, or the presence of someone with her- she didn’t care, she wanted him. All of him. Staring into her eyes, they pleaded with him, he nodded in response. Her heart began pounding as he stood up, placing the condom on before he forgot- licking her lips, he smirked rather than physically responding to her by speaking.

Gently cupping her cheeks as he hovered over her, he kissed her forehead. Guiding her hands above her head, he held them with one hand- whilst his other hand explored her body, circling her breasts- before kissing her hard.

“This is going to feel so strange, if you want me to stop just tell me.”

“Leo, just shut up and kiss me. It’s just sex remember. ”

Leo slid his hand between her legs- positioning his fingers and thumb at her entrance. The slightest touch, made her damp- Leo wasn’t expecting her to be like that. Kissing her neck, whilst working his thumb over her clit in a tantalising rhythm, she couldn’t contain her moans, hearing her scream him name made him want to skip pleasuring her and just get to the main part. All her muscles began to quiver- Leo smirked knowing he was showing how to treat a girl. Seeing her breathless already, he removed his fingers, replacing them with his tongue instead. Witnessing her eyes widen, he wondered how long it had been for her since she had this pleasure. Was Liam the last man to taste her?

“You taste so good, baby girl.” He said before plunging his tongue deeper inside. “Fuck!” Riley screamed, as she dug her nails into back- making the slightest mark. Removing his tongue, he placed his fingers there giving her that bit more pleasure- smiling at her as her whole body trembled.

Before she could recover from the actions he had performed on her, he rubbed against her entrance, before forcing his cock inside of her. Holding that position, their eyes fixated on each other. Slowly Leo began to thrust in and out at a steady speed, before increasing it- hitting her deeper. “You feel so good, Leo.”

His thrusts were powerful as their bodies collided in sync perfectly together. “This is just the start baby.” After a while his movements slowed down, as he released himself.

“Well that wasn’t as awkward as I thought it would be. Thanks Ri, you’re amazing you know that?” Riley opened her eyes, as Leo removed himself off her, laying at the side of her. Both staring vacant up at the ceiling. Holding his hand, she turned to face him. “No it wasn’t awkward at all. So what are we now? Fuck buddies” She laughed whilst snuggling into his embrace. Both breathless, they laid in silence- until Riley heard him take a deep breath.

“Come back to New York with me, it is your home. We all miss you. Maxwell and Bertrand especially.”

“Leo, I cant. Not whilst my gran is poorly. Maybe in the future. Thank you for tonight- I really needed it.”

“So did I. You’re amazing Ri. Best friends, friends with benefits. No strings.”

“Damn right Rhys.”

“So if you’re free tomorrow... how about you show me around your new stomping grounds?”

“Is that all you want to do?” Leo looked at her puzzled, with the seductive tone of voice she had provided.

“Yes. What do you take me for? You could show me around, then I’ll thank you by doing this...” Kissing her neck, she immediately felt turned on once again. He could see it in her eyes, rolling her on to him- they both gave each other that knowing look.

“Round two Miss Brooks?”

“We slept together for that whole week- she soon forgot about you. What are you going to do? Get rid of me too? You lost her. Get over it! I’ll pick Alice up at ten in the morning.”

“How could you do that to me?” Riley looked over at the two men, Leo looked smug- whilst Liam looked as if he was about to break down uncontrollably. Feeling her heart beat increase, she was intrigued as to what was included in their discussion.

“No strings attached my dear brother. She was single, as she was single when she slept with Drake. Don’t worry there wasn’t any feelings between us- it was just sex. If you love her you’d let her go Li. Just think about it. Oh and remember if she knew what you did to Drake, she would never forgive you. Maybe you should find him and make amends!”

*****

Liam stormed out of the club and made his way back to his penthouse- Madeleine was in her designer dressing gown. Pulling her up from the sofa, he pulled her into the bedroom. No strings attached, he thought.

******

Leo and Riley met Maxwell at Kismet, the friends kept drinking shots- all almost ready to pass out. Riley noticed that Leo’s gaze was fixated on the red head at the bar.

“Hey, Max. I think Leo likes her over there look.” Maxwell followed to where Riley’s finger was pointing. “He’s hypnotised, shall we play matchmaker?” Maxwell nodded, he was too drunk to function correctly- he needed to inform her about Drake. Waiting for the right opportunity, he knew if Leo copped off with the stranger he could talk to her in private.

“Hey, my name is Riley and this is my friend Maxwell.”

“Olivia.” Maxwell pulled the stranger and Riley into a group hug- the alcohol had gone straight to his head.

“Nice to meet you Olivia. Our friend over there the handsome blonde with the piercing blue eyes can’t take his eyes off you. Would you like to join us for a drink?” Olivia looked over, and saw Leo wink at her.

“He looks like a player. Not my type sorry.”

“He’s not a player. He’s a good shag.” Maxwell looked confused at the statement. How the fuck does Riley know? This woman is going to kill us if he’s a shit shag.

“And how would you know? Are you his ex or something?”

“No, I’m his brothers ex. But I slept with him for a week- no strings attached- so i know he’s a good shag. You won’t regret it. Give him a chance. I’ll pay you $20 to just talk to him.” Olivia smirked, grabbing the money she walked over to Leo- winking at his two wingmen, leo was grateful for their spontaneous matchmaking.

“We need words now Riley!”

“Max, I need more shots- I’m not leaving this bar until I have them. I’m missing Drake- how could he leave me?” Beginning to cry, she would regret this drunk breakdown over a man she hardly knew.

“So when did you and Leo sleep together?”

“In Florida, he came looking for me unlike you guys... sorry... it just happened. It meant nothing. The only person I’ve felt something towards left me.”

“I need to talk about that to you. We are going to Bertrand’s.”

“But I’ve just ordered these shots.”

“Drink up buttercup. Bertrand is expecting us.”

“What about Leo?” Both looking over towards the table, Leo had his tongue down Olivia’s throat- he wouldn’t care if his friends ditched him as he was most likely getting laid later that night.

“He’s fine with Olivia. Come on.”

*****

The cold air had hit the two friends walking from the cab towards Bertrand’s front door. Spying through the peep hole forgetting to knock on the door they both had giggles- not realising why Bertrand wasn’t answering.

“B... b.... let us innnn... pleasssee...”

“Bertrand... I need to wee. I’m going to do it ... on the door...”

“Don’t you dare... piss all over me Max. You’re disgusting....” Riley began banging on the door and pressing the buzzer frantically, as Maxwell whipped his cock out spraying all over the door.

“BERTRAND OPEN THIS FUCKING DOOR NOW!!! Why are we here again? How much have we had to drink? I think I’m going to be sick!” Riley placed her ear next to door, hoping to hear footsteps. The door suddenly opened- both Riley and Maxwell fell through it landing on the floor.

“Hey Riley, are your legs open like that on the pole.”

“Fuck off Beaumont, I don’t dance.”

“You would do if I was a certain tall dark handsome strangerrr...Who are you?”

Both looking up they saw a woman staring at the two of them with a perplexed expression.

“Can I help you? Where’s B?”

“I’m Savannah, let me help you both up.”

“Riley! Maxwell! Can neither of you contain yourselves?” Both biting their lips, attempting to hold their laughter in- they knew they were in the doghouse.

“Savannah darling, please make them a strong black coffee.” Riley and Maxwell both looked at each other- before bursting out laughing. Riley decided to mimic Bertrand’s voice, much to his annoyance.

“Savannah darling, could you add a bit of Irish whiskey in it. I need it after the day I’ve had. Fucking Liam. Thanks babe.”

“What’s he done?”

“Kissed me. I pushed him away. Fucking wanker. Karmas hit him though - hard. I’ll explain tomorrow. So are we having one big sleepover B? I think we will have to sleep naked though. Have you got a spare toothbrush? Toothpaste? Where are we all sleeping?”

“Arsehole...forget the sleepover essentials... we’ll just be dirty stop outs for the night... I forgot why we actually came here... oh yeah... Ri. Go in the spare room.”

“Why?”

“Erm, there’s a secret stash of booze.” Bertrand shot him a stern stare. “Sorry she wants booze what else could I say?” He whispered to his older brother who just shook his head.

“Why didn’t ya say so before?” Stumbling into the spare room, she opened the door- believing she was hallucinating.

“D-Drake?”

[msjr0119]

One Temptation

Part 2

*This new series is based on The Royal Romance characters who belong to Pixelberry - AU Plot switch*

Riley Brooks moves back to New York after leaving five years prior- struggling to get by in life she wanted to go home. After getting mugged, a woman and man come to her rescue and offer her a job at their strip club. A rich business man Liam Rhys is forced to visit the club as part of his bachelor party. What will happen that night?

Warnings: 🤬 swearing, Driley smut 🥰

Tags-if you want to be removed let me know 😊: @annekebbphotography @burnsoslow @drakesensworld @ladyangel70 @kingliam2019 @bbrandy2002 @butindeed @bascmve01 @drakewalker04 @pedudley @captain-kingliamsqueen @duchessemersynwalker @insideamirage @of-course-i-went-to-hartfeld @kozabaji @texaskitten30 @ibldw-main @kimmiedoo5 @nikkis1983 @dangerouseggseagleartisan @gnatbrain @walker7519 @lodberg @cmestrella @hopefulmoonobject @addictedtodrakefanfic @angi15h @liamxs-world @rafasgirl23415 @notoriouscs @whenyourheartskipsabeat @jovialyouthmusic @nz1091 @yukinagato2012 @indiacater @seriouslybadchoices @rainbowsinthestorm @cordonianroyalty @dcbbw @qammh-blog @beardedoafdonutwagon @jared2612 @princess-geek

******

Maxwell woke up the next morning, needing a shit ton of caffeine to get him through the day. Riley wasn’t on the sofa, checking the bathroom she wasn’t there. He had hoped that she would meet up with them regularly and that she hadn’t done another moonlight flit.

The room was spinning and his head was pounding. The headache became worse with the loud bang on the door interrupting the peace.

“Li? What are you doing here?”

“I couldn’t sleep, and wondered if you and Drake wanted to do something today.”

Maxwell motioned him into the kitchen. Locking the door, he turned to face the kitchen- noticing Riley’s bra on the floor he stood on it attempting to kick it under the couch. Liam turned around providing a bewildered look.

“Oh don’t worry about me Liam! Too much coffee- the caffeine has given me a twitch in my leg. My body is definitely waking up now Li.”

“Why are you shouting?”

“Me shout? Am I shouting Liam?”

*****

Drake woke up abruptly, hearing Maxwell shouting- wondering where the fire was. One name was constantly repeated Liam. Shaking Riley, he needed to wake her up but not startle her that she would scream. Her eyes fluttered open, “Riley Liam’s here. Hide somewhere.”

“Why do I need to hide? I’m not with him. People can have one night stands Drake.”

“Please, I don’t want you to have another argument.”

******

Liam overheard voices coming from Drakes room.

“Did Drake have a one night stand? Who was the lucky lady?”

“Nooo. Drake isn’t the type to have a one night stand. He will be on the phone to his mom- whispering because he’s hungover.”

Before Liam could respond, Drake appeared in the hallway- Maxwell poured him a black coffee. Feeling relieved that his hysterical shouting had worked.

“Liam, what are you doing here?”

“He wanted us to do something with him later. How’s your mom? Is she okay?” Drake looked confused at first then understood that Maxwell had saved his neck again.

“Sounds good, we could do something in a couple of hours. Erm she’s fine. I couldn’t comprehend what she was saying my heads banging.”

“I’ll pick you both up later then. Are you sure there wasn’t a girl here?”

“Why would you ask that?”

“There’s a black dress on the floor?” Fuck!

“We got that drunk, Maxwell decided to do his best drag impression. It scared Leo away.”

“Ah I see. I wish I could have seen that. See you later.”

*****

Making sure the coast was clear, Drake opened the wardrobe door- he threw her a shirt to wear. Walking into the kitchen, Maxwell wore a huge grin.

“Good job I wore those ear muffs eh?”

“Yes good job Max.” Riley looked at Drake blushing.

“I’ll have a coffee then get off if you don’t mind.” Maxwell poured her a coffee, still laughing at the pair. Excusing himself he didn’t want to play gooseberry.

“Thank you for last night Drake. I really enjoyed myself.” Unable to hide the smile, he gave her a quick hug.

“Me too. You could have chosen anyone for a one night stand- I’m glad someone chose me.”

“Hey guys. Who says it has to be a one night stand?” Maxwell interrupted after earwigging from a distance. Coming closer to them he began blowing kisses- winding the two up- from in the hallway.

Riley prepared herself to do the walk of shame, promising Maxwell to arrange another night out. Drake escorted her to the door, eyes full of desire. Kissing her gently- she smiled and left.

*****

Walking out of the apartment block, she was still shaken up from the mugging- keeping to main roads, she was given a rape alarm for precaution from her manager which she was grateful for.

Liam stayed in the limo around the corner from Max’s apartment, he had an inkling that the dress belonged to Riley. It had her scent on it which he wasn’t going to admit to his friends. His eyes widened when he saw her walking in that specific dress. Following her, he just wanted to talk.

“Riley.” Hearing his voice, she ignored him and increased her walking speed. Forgetting how much of a fast walker he was, he caught up to her immediately, grabbing her wrist- not intending on harming her, just attempting to gain her attention.

“Liam, I have to go. Please just leave me alone.”

“No. Please I just want to talk. I have the limo around the corner. I need to give you some closure. I know you’ve moved on. I know you was in the flat. In drake’s bed.” His face grimaced, at the thought of his so called friend and the only woman he had truly loved together.

“It was a one night stand. I’m sure you’ll understand. I mean you had one of those. Maybe even more. I don’t need to explain myself to you or no one. Are you jealous Mr Rhys?” She asked rhetorically.

“Yes I am. I’m not going to lie. I know I messed up Riley. Please can we talk.”

“No liam. I have nothing to say to you. Apart from thank you.”

“Did you ever love me? Is there a chance you could love me again?”

“I never stopped loving you Liam. I’m a mug for that.”

“I’ve called off my engagement. We could take it slow.”

“Liam, you made your bed. Now lay in it. I have to go.” Turning away from him, she felt guilty- but why should she? He messed up their relationship not her. Hoping he wouldn’t follow her, there were people just staring at the pair. Wishing the ground would swallow her up quickly- she needed to get back to the club as soon as possible.

“Riley I have a daughter.”

“Oh you are unbelievable. You have a daughter, yet you call your engagement off and come running to me. I don’t think so liam. I hope you and Madeleine will be very happy.”

******

Riley returned to the strip club, her mind was all over the place.

“Hey baby. Did you have a good night?”

“Yes thank you. It was good to catch up with some old friends.”

“You’re on the early shift tonight. The girls are practicing some new moves. If you want you can learn with them.”

“Will do. Thanks Rita.”

Needing to do anything to keep her mind off Liam’s bombshell and Drake.

Drake turned to face her, knowing he was breaking the ‘friend rule’- no matter how appalling Liam was towards her, he was still his friend. She was his before. Pulling her towards him into a hesitant hug- he had one night stands before but never had a connection with the women. In the back of his mind, he wondered if she was using him as a rebound. But he didn’t care- if they could both make each other happy for one night- he was intending on doing it. Both their hearts beating faster, he noticed her close the distance, her baby blues contained desire.

Drake crashed his lips onto hers kissing as if their lives depended on it. His tongue slipped inside her mouth, starting off gentle. Rileys arms wrapped around his neck, pulling him closer- encouraging him to deeper the kiss as his arms found their way around her petite frame. From the kitchen, to the bedroom, they couldn’t get enough of each other.

The kiss became more passionate before Drake pushed her gently backwards laying her on her back on the bed. The touch of his body on top of hers, made her feel loved. Hovering over her, he began to gently kiss every inch of her curvy body- he placed an extra gentle kiss on her forehead- before she dragged him back up to hovering over her- their eyes both fixated on each other.

“I’m sorry.”

“What for?” Riley couldn’t understand why he would apologise. Did he regret the instant connection they had?

“I don’t know. Do you want this? I just need to be sure.”

“Yes. I wouldn’t be here if not. I couldn’t help but want to get to know you when you all arrived.”

Pulling him down back on to her. The slightest bit of stubble rubbed her skin but she didn’t care- he wasn’t her usual type, but he was handsome- there was something about this tall and dark man and his presence made her fell intoxicated as well as the his scent of whiskey that she was inhaling.

“Drake, I want you.” She pleaded with him, he nodded in response. Her heart pounding she stood up, pulling him towards her. Standing on her tip toes she intended on discarding all of his clothes and Maxs top that she was wearing to the floor. Touching his warm muscled abs- he sighed at her soft touch. Working her way down to his zip- he looked bewildered, imagining what it would be feel like to have this gorgeous woman as his.

Biting her lip, she watched him remove his trousers- his erection in his boxers, caught her gaze- quickly she returned her gaze to his eyes. He smirked knowing exactly where her eyes had previously been. Kneeling on the floor, she pulled his boxers down- before licking her lips, she stroked his length, before taking it fully in her mouth.

“Riley... you’re... oh god.” Riley looked up at him fluttering her eyelashes, assuming he was enjoying the pleasure. Feeling his cock move at every move- knowing she was pleasing him, she immediately increased her pace.

“Ri, slow down. I mean, I don’t want you to- I’d love for you to carry on .... but I’m going to cum.” He panted, hoping she wouldn’t think he was ungrateful for the unexpected pleasure she had provided him with. Picking her up- he carried her effortlessly over to the bed. Laying her down, he hovered over her, placing her hands above her head, holding them with one hand- his other hand roamed her body, circled her breasts- before kissing her hard.

“Tell me what you want? Is it me you want?”

“I want you. I want you Drake. Please..”

Drake slid his hand between her thighs- positioning his thumb at her entrance. The slightest touch, made her instantly damp. Kissing her neck and shoulder, whilst working his thumb over her clit in a tantalising rhythm, she tried to remain quiet- not wanting to disrespect Maxwell’s hospitality, “Drake.” She screamed, losing herself in the pleasure. All her muscles began to quiver. Feeling breathless already, Drake pumped his fingers inside her rapidly increasing his speed, making her uncontrollably scream his name. After a while he removed his now coated fingers, replacing them with his tongue instead.

“You taste so good, baby.” He said before plunging his tongue deeper inside. “Fuck! Drake.... oh god. I can’t stay quiet.... Max is going to ...... to... kill me” Riley screamed, as she dug her manicured nails in his back as he continued to pleasure her. Removing his mouth, he smiled at her expression, her whole body trembled.

Before she could recover, he teased her placing his cock at her entrance- gently rubbing against it. “Stop teasing Drake. This isn’t funny. I need you now.”

“I need you too. I know I keep saying it but you are beautiful.” Slowly entering her, he allowed her time to get used to his large girth. Holding that position, their eyes fixated on each other. Drake began to thrust, taking his time wanting to enjoy making love with her. “You feel so good, baby.” He growled before the thrusts increased becoming more passionate, hitting her in that spot. “You feel good too. Don’t stop! I’m so close.” “I’m not planning to. I want you to cum for me again, before I do.”

His thrusts were powerful as their bodies rocked in sync perfectly together. Drake’s movements slowed down, as he released himself inside her. She felt his warm seed spill into her. She would think about the consequences in the morning.

“You are... wow. Thank you.” Riley opened her eyes, as Drake removed himself off her. Holding his hand, she turned to face him. Cuddling into his embrace. Both breathless, they laid in silence- until Riley heard him take a deep breath.

“No thank you. I’ve never had a one night stand. I don’t think I want another one. I don’t think anyone could compare.”

“Boosting my ego slightly there.”

“I mean it Drake. That was amazing. I can’t catch my breath.”

“You took my breath away when you sat on my lap.”

“Charmer. I could do it again if you’d like? Make the most out of tonight.” Drake felt his cock rise at the thought of it- before he could respond she was on top of him teasing him. Holding her hips, he guided her as she began to ride him.

“Beautiful girl.”

“My handsome stranger.”

“Riley? Are you okay?”

“Yes, Sorry Mercy. Are you going to teach me some moves then?”

“Are you sure? You were in a world of your own.”

“My ex caused some trouble last night. I went out with the other guys. Ended up at my old apartment. And slept with my ex’s friend.”

“And?”

“And we had the most amazing sex. Then this morning, I bumped into my ex who informed me that he had a child, called off his engagement but wants me back. I don’t know what to do Merc?”

“What did he do to you?”

“He cheated on me with his brothers ex.”

“If I was You I’d stay well clear of him. How about I teach you a sexy move incase his friend comes in again.”

******

Drake and Maxwell got ready for their afternoon with Liam. The bachelor knocked on the door, both men looked sheepish as Liam broke down crying.

“Li, what’s up?”

“I’ve lost her for good haven’t I? She slept with you Drake. I’m not annoyed, I can’t blame you. It was all my fault. I need to tell you something.”

“Liam I’m so sorry. It just happened. I won’t go near her again.”

“I have a daughter. Myself and Madeleine have a daughter. We conceived her the night I cheated on Riley.”

“And you’re telling us this now? How did you keep that a secret?”

“Money buys you things. A nanny. Drake do you like her?”

“I... I think she’s beautiful Liam, I can’t deny that. But I won’t go near her again. I promise.”

“Hang on, she’s single your single. No offence Liam.” Maxwell couldn’t believe that he would be playing piggy in the middle.

“I’m single too. I’m risking losing my daughter. But I’m winning her back. If you want to fight for her Drake we will.”

“You’re not fighting over her! She’s not some prized possession you can fling away when you get bored Liam.” Maxwell was getting frustrated with Liam- deep down he was thrilled that Riley had come back home, but in a way he wished she had stayed away.

“Liam she was yours. I’m not getting involved in hurting anyone’s feelings.”

“So fucking her, then not willing to fight for her - you’d be hurting her.”

“It was a one night stand Liam! I doubt she even likes me more than that! If she did, you should let her go.”

“I’m not losing her again! Money buys you happiness. And I’m getting my girl back.” Liam stormed out of the apartment not giving two shits about how ridiculously arrogant he sounded. Maxwell slammed the door, before turning to Drake.

“Drake? What the fuck?”

“How can I compete against him Max?”

“He hurt her? And you’re going to push her towards him?”

“I was probably a rebound anyway. No one chooses me for a long term thing.”

“You are unbelievable. I’ve known that girl since we were in nappies. She falls in love easily. I saw the sparkle in her eyes. Stop putting yourself down and grab her while you can.”

Later that night Leo came over to Max’s apartment. The men explained what had happened- Leo just burst out laughing.

“Guys Liam is brother- you shouldn’t bitch about him to me. I’m joking. I can’t believe he has a child. But he will never win her back. Go on Walker. Go and get your girl.”

******

Drake walked to the strip club, not knowing what to do or what to say. Not knowing if Riley would appreciate him ‘stalking’ her. Heading straight to the bar, he saw her.

“Hey.”

“Hi. Where can a guy get a whiskey from around here?”

“Oh I don’t know?” Pouring him a whiskey, they both smiled at each other- providing the star crossed lovers looks.

“What are you doing here anyway?”

“Erm. Liam knows about us. He wasn’t pleased. He said he’s going to risk losing his child to win you back. I just thought I’d give you a heads up.”

“I know.””He caught me doing the walk of shame. He pretty much told me the same.”

“He also told me that I would have to fight him for you. I tried to explain that it was just a one time thing. But he wouldn’t listen.”

“Would you fight for me?”

“Excuse me?”

“Would you fight for me Drake? It’s quite a simple question.”

“Riley, you are not a prized possession to be won- as Maxwell said defending you.”

“What if I said that you didn’t need to fight for me?”

“I’d ask you what exactly you mean.”

“I’d never get back into a relationship with Liam. Even if he paid me a million dollars I wouldn’t. So if you want me, you’d only be fighting yourself. Come over to the pole. I’ll do you a little dance so we can talk more.”

Drake gulped, as she seductively spun around the pole.

“Whatcha think? I’ve been practising all day.”

“You’re teasing me.”

“I’ve been practising for you. Hoping you’d come. One of the girls taught me.”

Riley grabbed Drake’s hand, escorting him to a secluded area away from prying eyes.

“I finish in a couple of hours. Rita, my manager spoke to me before. Saying I’ll always have a room here, but I can go as and when I please as long as I turn up for work.”

“What are you hinting at?”

“I can’t stop thinking about you Drake.”

“Really?” Thinking he had misheard her, he couldn’t believe that someone could possibly finally choose him for once.

“Yes really. I like you.”

“I like you too.” Rising on her tiptoes, placing a kiss on his cheek.

“Wait for me?”

“I’ll meet you at ours. I’m sure Max won’t mind. I’ll pay for your cab.”

******

Finishing her shift, she was relieved to get out of their. There had been a few creeps; most likely newly married men or men that had been married for years. Mercedes had advised for her to stay behind the bar.

Walking out of the club, she was dragged into the side road next to it. Screaming she didn’t want to go through another mugging.

“Shh Ri. It’s only me.”

“Are you fucking insane? I got mugged the other day and you’re scaring the shit out of me.”

“I’m sorry, I’ve been waiting for you to finish. I didn’t mean to scare you. Are you okay? What did they do to you?”

“Stole my purse, gave me a few punches. Nothing I couldn’t handle but I’m still shaken up. I have to go.”

“Where are you going? Let me escort you there.”

“I’m going home.”

“Home as in Max and Drake’s?” Nodding she felt slightly guilty. Seeing him sigh, she debated about just going back inside the club.

“Liam. There is no way back for us. But don’t lose your daughter. Fight for her. Don’t let Maddy win. Your daughter should be your priority- even if she wasn’t planned. We can still be friends, I won’t hold a grudge against you.”

“I can’t see you with him.” Cupping her cheeks, she wanted and needed to avoid the temptation.

“Li, please. I’ve had closure. I’ve said we can still be friends.”

“So if I come into the club, paying you for a dance you’d do it?”

“Yes. But only because you’re a customer. Don’t be taking the piss and coming all the time.” Liam laughed, regretting losing her in the first place- it would be a miracle if she could ever forgive him.

“I promise. If I can have you as a friend it’s better than nothing. Drake is lucky. Make sure he doesn’t hurt you like I did.”

“We were never meant to be.” Hugging him, she still loved him deep down but she could never forget what he did.

*****

Escorting her safely to Max and Drake’s, he kissed her on the cheek- giving her his blessing. Max opened the door ready for world war three to begin.

“Ri are you okay?”

“Yes Max. Is Drake in?” Maxwell nodded, winking at her as she went into Drake’s room.

“Liam. What are you planning?”

“Nothing. I’m being a gentlemen making sure the lady was safe, did you know she got assaulted the other night? Didn’t think so. Goodnight Max.” Liam walked out of the apartment smirking.

*****

Closing the door, she noticed Drake wasn’t there.

“Max? Where’s Drake?”

“He came back after he had been to see you. I nipped to the store for sleepover essentials. He wouldn’t have gone anywhere without informing me.” Ringing Drake, Maxwell couldn’t get through which was unusual.

“He will be back soon, don’t worry Ri. I’ll put Sex and the City on like old times.”

[msjr0119]

One Temptation

Part 5

*This new series is based on The Royal Romance characters who belong to Pixelberry - AU Plot switch*

Riley Brooks moves back to New York after leaving five years prior- struggling to get by in life she wanted to go home. After getting mugged, a woman and man come to her rescue and offer her a job at their strip club. A rich business man Liam Rhys is forced to visit the club as part of his bachelor party. What will happen that night?

Tags-if you want to be removed let me know 😊: @annekebbphotography @burnsoslow @drakesensworld @ladyangel70 @kingliam2019 @bbrandy2002 @butindeed @bascmve01 @drakewalker04 @pedudley @captain-kingliamsqueen @duchessemersynwalker @insideamirage @of-course-i-went-to-hartfeld @kozabaji @texaskitten30 @ibldw-main @kimmiedoo5 @nikkis1983 @dangerouseggseagleartisan @gnatbrain @walker7519 @lodberg @cmestrella @hopefulmoonobject @addictedtodrakefanfic @angi15h @liamxs-world @rafasgirl23415 @notoriouscs @whenyourheartskipsabeat @jovialyouthmusic @nz1091 @yukinagato2012 @indiacater @seriouslybadchoices @rainbowsinthestorm @cordonianroyalty @dcbbw @qammh-blog @beardedoafdonutwagon @jared2612 @princess-geek @desiree-0816

Warnings: Swearing

*******

“D-Drake?” A fusion of emotions ran through her body immediately- anger that he hadn’t contacted her, shock that he was there, upset that he was in this state.

“What happened to you?” Cupping his cheeks, her eyes scrutinised his body for any other possible injuries.

“Drake don’t ignore me! What happened?”

“I’ll tell you what happened, I fucked you.” Abruptly removing her hands, her previous emotions had now turned into full rage anger.

“It takes two to tango! You could have just left me in the kitchen on my own!”

“I wish I did!”

“Riley I’m sorry.” I didn’t mean it like that... i can’t stop thinking about you... “I’m sorry okay?”

“No it’s not okay, I was just a fuck to you. I understand. Don’t you worry. Shame whoever did this to you didn’t finish you off!”

“It was fucking Liam that did this to me, you know what go back to him. I mean you kissed him right- I was just a rebound correct?”

“If it makes you feel better yes you was a rebound, a shit one at that...” I’m lying, I was falling for you immediately... “Goodbye Drake.”

“Riley wait!”

Riley stormed into the kitchen area, nearly taking the hinges off the door. Maxwell, Bertrand and Savannah wondered what had gone off- they had hoped that the two of them could rekindle and fight against Liam.

“Riley! For fuck sake wait!” Drake shouted, running after her.

“What’s gone off?” Maxwell was still feeling drunk, hoping his drunk mind was misreading the commotion that was happening in front of him.

“Max give me Liam’s address now!”

“What? Why? Are you crazy?”

“I was! I was crazy thinking someone actually cared for me. Are you going to help me or not?”

“No!”

“Fine! See you all around.” Waving her hands in the air, she stormed out of the apartment. She had truly sobered up.

*****

Riley ran out of the apartment building- not looking back, not knowing what to do or where to go. Feeling guilty that she was potentially about to cock block- she was desperate for Liam’s address.

Leo can I have Liam’s address please?

What why?

Just please. I need to talk to him in person.

Leo text her back the address, if he was sober and not about to get laid- his sensible head would have refused to give it her.

Arriving at the address, she pressed the buzzer- wet through due to the rain, she had wished she had just gone home and slept the disastrous ending to the night away.

“Ri?” Liam answered the door believing he was hallucinating- never in his life did he expect to see Riley at his house.

“Hi. Erm. Can we talk?”

“Come in. You’re wet through.” Riley walked into the living area, it was elegant- of course it would be he was a millionaire. Both standing staring at each other not knowing how to break the silence, they were both disturbed by the tiny footsteps behind them.

“Belle!”

You have to be kidding me, Alice is his.

“Oh. Hey Alice, hows the arm?”

“Great thanks to you. What are you doing here?”

“Erm, ‘Belle’ is one of daddies old friends.”

Alice looked between the two of them. “Well are you going to warm her up? She looks cold daddy.” I wish I could Alice, she wouldn’t ever allow me to do that again.

“Why don’t you go back to bed? It’s very late.”

“Yes daddy, but I just wanted some milk.” Liam poured his daughter a glass of milk before bending down, kissing his daughter goodnight. “Bye Belle.” Riley smiled, and waved to the young girl- before returning her gaze onto her ex boyfriend.

“So you’re the infamous Belle, what are you doing here?”

“Have you got something to tell me? Where’s the witch?”

“The witch is out for the night. And what are referring to? Don’t you have something to tell me? Like how you fucked my brother senseless for a week?”

“Yeah and? It was just sex. You know what I’m referring to- his name is Drake.”

“You deserve someone better than Drake, Ri.”

“What like you? So you beat him up? It’s none of your business who I decide to sleep with or date. You lost all those rights the minute you produced that adorable little girl behind my back.”

“I shouldn’t have done that to him, it was a moment of madness. I’m sorry. I’m sorry for everything.”

“It’s too late to apologise. I better get going. But just so you know, I’m single. I can do what I want.” Liam pulled her into his embrace trying to calm the situation down, noticing her shiver- he knew she would reject his suggestion.

“Take your clothes off, at least let them dry- have a coffee to warm you up then I’ll call you a cab.” Riley was freezing, but she didn’t want to wander around his house in the nude, especially with their past.

“Riley, I’m thinking about you- I won’t come near you. I’ll even give you one of my shirts to wear.”

“Fine!”

Liam stuck to his words, at times he was tempted to just force another kiss on her. They spoke like civil adults during the duration she was there. Once her clothes were dry, he walked her to the door.

“It’s been nice to see you Ri, maybe we could do it again soon?”

“Maybe. Goodnight.” He knew she would never return the feelings, but he took a risk. Kissing her, she didn’t pull back immediately.

“I really should go.”

“I love you, don’t you ever forget that.”

“Goodnight Liam.”

******

In Bertrand’s apartment, the friends were all awaiting for Drake to explain what had caused world war three. Maxwell eventually broke the silence.

“What did you do?”

“I fucked up as usual. She hates me. She was wanting to know what had happened, touched me. Then I fucked up giving her the impression that I only used her for sex. I didn’t. Ever since we met, I haven’t been able to stop thinking about her. And now she’s gone running back to Liam- all because I can’t express my true feelings.”

“You’re an idiot. She’s in love with you. A drunk mind speaks the truth and she had been non stop talking about you Drake. Fuck Liam.”

“What my brother means is ignore Liam. He can’t force you away from each other.”

*****

Two months had gone by since Riley had seen Drake and the others. In all honesty, she had been ignoring everyone. She was on edge every time someone walked into the strip club. Needing space from everyone, she would eventually speak to them all again. Rita and the girls had taught her a few more moves on the pole, tonight they had a special show to perform. Riley was nervous about it, but Mercedes had ensured that she would be fine. During the day, she had applied for jobs in retail and applied to go back to college hoping to better herself.

*****

The men all decided to meet up at Maxwell’s- Liam included. This would be awkward, but they were all concerned about Riley’s welfare after not hearing from her. Wondering if she had done a moonlight flit again.

“She hasn’t been in the club whenever I’ve been.” Leo explained. “I even forced Olivia to go with me a few times- hoping that if she was there she may speak to a woman if she wanted to avoid me.”

“Same. Every time I’ve been, they said that she was off shift and was unsure of her location.” Maxwell explained softly, Drake remained silent- knowing all this was his fault. If only he had remained calm that night- allowed her to comfort him, explained what had happened then maybe she would still be talking to them all.

Liam knocked on the door, nervous to see Drake. He had regretted what he had done after he saw how hurt Riley was. For the rest of his life, he would continue loving her- fighting for her. But if she didn’t want him back, he couldn’t blame her.

“Liam, I’d usually say it’s good to see you. But I’m not going to lie- you broke this wolf pack up. The important question is, have you seen or heard from Riley?”

“No. She came to mine two months ago- when I last saw her, we spoke. Then she left. Drake, I’m sorry for everything.” Holding his hand out towards Drake, he shook his head. Maybe he was acting stubborn? He could forgive Liam in time, but would never forget.

Fucking arsehole, I hate you. No hate is a nasty word to use. Just remain calm, ignore the prick.

“Stay out of my way Liam, and I’ll stay out of yours? Okay?” Liam just nodded, knowing full well that he was in the wrong. Deep down he was jealous that Drake had stolen her heart.

“So, we go to the strip club- hope she’s working tonight?” Bertrand suggested, even though he hated those type of places.

“Yes. If not we will have to think of another tactic. Come on, let’s find that stubborn bitch.”

*****

Walking into the strip club, the men wondered why it was so hectic compared to other nights.

“Pour some sugar on me... I love this song!” Maxwell exclaimed, before Leo punched him to calm him down. All the men noticed Riley stood on top of the bar, barely wearing anything- the other woman was pointing the soda gun towards her- soda running down her body, whilst men in the audience gawked at her.

“As much as she looks sexy as fuck, what the fuck is she doing to herself? She’s degrading herself!” Leo snapped, not daring to look at the others expressions.

“Hey Ri, aren’t those your friends?” Looking over to where Mercedes pointed, she froze- shit. Jumping off the bar, she ran towards the back room- Leo forced his way through the crowd, grabbing her he pulled her into a secluded corner.

“Care to explain?”

“It’s dancing Leo.”

“You’re not fucking starring in coyote ugly. What has happened to you in the last two months? You have two men out there who love you- and you allow dirty old men to practically dribble over you. I’m not saying this nastily- I care for you a hell of a lot, so cover yourself up.”

“You never said that to me in Florida... maybe Olivia has changed you. I’m happy for you Leo. Please just let me live my life.”

“She has changed me. I’m grateful for you forcing her to have a drink with me. But Riley, look at those two. They’ve made amends because they both love you. If you want to be with one of them, you have to make that choice and tell them. I’d love for you to be my sister in law, even though it would be awkward. But I know you had that connection with Drake.”

“Yeah the man who clearly said I was just a ‘fuck’...”

“Will you stop being so stubborn, he realised he fucked up- he can’t express feelings that well, he’s not a charmer like us Rhys’s.” Winking at her, she shook her head- knowing that he wasn’t exactly great with chat up lines after her experience watching him in Florida. Thinking back to her one night stand with Drake, a few sentences had stuck in her mind on a loop over the last couple of months.

“Well I’ll give you a ‘compliment’ back. You’re beautiful”

“I’d be honoured to have you in my arms even if it’s just for tonight.”

“Leo, there’s something I need to tell you. I feel I trust you the most, well I actually trust Maxwell the most because I’m closer to him, but not with secrets he’s too risky.”

“Anything. What’s up?” Feeling like she was about to hyperventilate- her body began to shake uncontrollably, she soon backed out of telling him the truth.

“The truth is, I’ve missed you all. Excuse me I think I’m going to be sick. I promise I’ll come and see you all.”

*****

Leo went and sat down with the others as Mercedes flaunted herself around them seductively. Liam decided to ‘pay her off’ as she was ‘suffocating’ them all.

“What’s up with Riley? We noticed she was shaking. Then she ran off.” Maxwell whispered.

“She said she needed to tell me something, then spouted bullshit instead.”

“What do you mean?” Before Leo could respond, Riley ambled to the table- keeping to her promise. Avoiding looking at Liam and Drake, she hugged Bertrand, Max and Leo.

“So what did you need to tell Leo?” Leo and Riley’s eyes widened- she could throttle Leo, only moments prior to sitting down she told him Maxwell was too risky to trust with secrets or anything for that matter. He had no filter.

“That I missed you all. I’m sorry for being ignorant. I’m sorting my life out.”

“By degrading yourself? It’s nice to see you with some clothes on!” Bertrand snapped.

“Oh B are you jealous that you’re the only one to not see me practically naked?” Smirking, he was shocked with her response- she couldn’t be bothered with him berating her over her poor life decisions.

“Enough of that. Now are you going to come back home with Maxwell?”

“No. I’m getting my own apartment, but are staying here for the meantime. It’s been good to see you all, but I need to go.” Standing up she held her hand to her mouth whilst gipping, running towards the bathroom she made it just in time.

“That’s the second time she’s been sick in a short time. Drake? When you slept with her... did you... you know? Use protection” Leo asked, already knowing the answer due to his facial expression. Shit that’s what she wanted to tell me.

Liam also studied Drake’s facial expression, his heart sunk at the feeling of the possibility that Riley was pregnant with someone other than him. It’s my own fault, don’t blame anyone but yourself Liam. Act civil for once in your life. “You should go and talk to her.” Liam told him with a soft fake smile.

*****

Drake entered the women’s bathroom, not caring about what people would say.

“Riley?” Opening the door after hearing his voice, her heart sunk. She had missed him the most even if she knew him for the least amount of time.

“What do you want Drake? The bar is out there...”

“I wanted to make sure you was okay?” Making her way over to the sink, she could feel his eyes watching her every move.

“I’m fine. Why wouldn’t I be?”

“Leo said you’d been sick twice. Is there a chance you could be pregnant? If so is it mine?”

“I’m... I’m not pregnant.”

“Well you really should get yourself checked out by a gp.”

“I will. How are you anyway?”

“I’d be better if I didn’t have to play best buddies with a certain blonde prick.” Laughing, it was the first smile he had seen on her face. It was a beautiful smile, that made his heart flutter.

“You’re a better man than he is, I wouldn’t even look at him after what he did- never mind socialise with him.”

“Maybe I was brought up to respect people better.”

“Even those who you just ‘fuck’?” Thinking back to the night he had ‘disappeared’ she was unsure about how it all went wrong. How much anger Liam had caused between the two of them.

“I can’t stop thinking about you Drake.”

“Really?”

“Yes really. I like you.”

“I like you too.”

“Listen to me, I didn’t mean for it to come out the way it did. I meant what I said when I told you that I liked you too.”

“I can’t do this Drake, I’m sorry. I’m not breaking my heart again.” Shit, I’ve lost her exactly like Liam did. Except I lost her in a second compared to his years. Pulling her into his embrace, he cupped her cheeks- his eyes searching hers. His distinctive scent, made her feel intoxicated. Wanting to pull his lips on to her own lips- she decided against. Because of Liam she had lost a lot of trust in men- not knowing what to do with her life or future.

“If you feel that way, I’ll leave you alone, I’ll even move away if it makes you feel better. But I know that night we spent together will be one of the best nights I’ve had in my life- with the most perfect woman. You’re amazing don’t you ever forget that.” Before Riley could react, they were interrupted by Mercedes.

“Hey babe, Rita wants a word with you. Sorry if I’m disturbing you.”

“No it’s fine, I was just leaving.” Watching Drake leave, she was in a dilemma with his words that he had spoken. Was he being sincere? Did their argument just include words out of spite. She had lied to him informing him that he was a poor one night stand- when in fact it was the best sex she had ever had.

“So what is happening between you and the hottie?” Smirking, Mercedes was eager for some new gossip.

“Nothing. I’m not allowing any man to break my heart anymore especially Drake- someone I actually had feelings for immediately.”

“Ah so he is the infamous Drake? Your baby daddy. Did you tell him?”