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aprilchallenge · 1 year

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Marabelle

Marabelle

-4- The Beaumont Bash

Book: Choices – The Royal Romance, an AU series

Series Premise: An American teenager from New York City is introduced to the world of a small European country and its society of royalty, nobles, and commoners. How will her life story be transformed? Will this new adventure bring her happiness...or regret?

Catch up: Masterlist

Main Pairing: Liam Rys x F!OC Sophia (Sophie)

Other Pairing: Maxwell Beaumont x M!OC Daniel (from NYC)

Drake Walker x F!OC Melanie Smithson

All characters belong to Pixelberry, except Sophia Taylor, Bethany Beaumont, Melanie Smithson, Tyler Gregson (Liam’s assistant), Elena (dress shop attendant)

Rating: M*🔞Warnings: this series will have NSFW material, crude language. Not Beta’d: Please excuse all errors.

Category: Alternate Universe/on-going series/angst/fluff

Words: 2173

-4- The Beaumont Bash

Chapter Summary: Sophie prepares for her first Beaumont Bash and is introduced to Bertrand’s love interest/Drake’s sister/future ally, Savannah Walker.

Music Inspiration: Just the Way You Are, Bruno Mars

Love Story, Taylor Swift

A/N1: This is my submission for Choices April Challenge @choicesmonthlychallenge @lovealexhunt @aprilchallenge prompts, love is in the air, dinner, flower crown #april challenge

A/N2: This is my submission for @choicesflashfics Week#30, Prompt3- “That’s how the story goes.”

A/N3: Bethany Beaumont, Maxwell’s mother, is originally from the US: is Barthelemy Beaumont’s 2nd wife. Annabelle Beaumont (deceased) was Bertrand’s mother.

A/N4: Social Season in this AU series refers to a traditional period in the spring/summer for royalty and members of the court to take part in balls, dinner parties and charity events.

A/N5: Thank you @peonierose for the inspirational quote!

Cordonian Capital...

It was a cloudy Tuesday morning in the Capital, which meant it was a good day to spend shopping. Keeping her promise to take her niece to the shopping district, Bethany smiled watching Sophie's excitement as the driver turned the Escalade SUV into the parking lot of an upscale formal wear boutique and parked alongside the floor to ceiling display window.

“Duchess Bethany, good morning,” the elegant shop owner walked up to Sophie’s aunt in greeting as they entered the building. “This must be Lady Sophia, it’s a pleasure to meet you.”

Gazing at the display mannequins, Sophie turned and smiled, greeting the well-dressed woman.

“Hello, good morning; your dresses are gorgeous!”

“Thank you, I have taken the liberty of pre-selecting a sampling of the latest trending styles for you and placed them in the dressing room. My assistant is at your service this morning for whatever you need. I am sure that you will find the perfect dress for the occasion.”

A petite woman appeared alongside a Sophie. “Please follow me, my lady,” the shop tailer smiled. “My name is Elena.”

***

After trying on several styles and colors, the dress she fell in love with was a deep burgundy red, an A-line V-neck asymmetrical satin dress.

Standing on the pedestal inside the dressing room of the boutique, Sophie looked at her reflection in the three-way full length mirror, critically.

“Auntie, I found my dress! What do you think?”

Sophie took a selfie and sent it off to Daniel for his opinion.

“Oh, my dear, it’s lovely! That color flatters your complexion and hair color perfectly.”

“It is a pleasure fitting such a lovely figure...ahhh to be young again.” Elena tittered as she handed her a pair of gold heels to try.

“Lady Sophia, these stilettos will give you some added height.”

‘I feel like Cinderella!’ Sophie thought to herself as she slipped on the heels and stood up straight. Sending another picture to her best friend, she made sure to include the shoes.

Sophie’s phone instantly pinged with Daniel’s return message:

‘Girl, look at your killer legs! GET IT! 🔥🔥🔥’

Sophie giggled at his response, texting back, ‘OK, OK, don’t hold anything back, now🫡😁!'

Sophie clicked off her phone before reading Daniel's reply, 'can't wait to see you this weekend! 😘 '

***

The Beaumont Estate...

Maxwell browsed through the endless list of Netflix movies on his phone, looking for a movie line-up for tonight’s viewing. Tonight, being a Tuesday, was the weekly ‘Maxwell Movie Marathon’. Max was excited to introduce his cousin to her inaugural movie night, complete with New York style deep dish pizza and his infamous ‘Beaumont Brew’.

“Hey Maxxy,” Savannah Walker walked into the theatre room giving her friend a hug.

“Hi, Sav. What do you think of these movies for tonight?”

Glancing at his phone, “Oooooo, I love ‘Dirty Dancing’! Are you sure your brother will approve?”

Maxwell gave her a lopsided grin, “I’ve been telling him about my plans since my cousin arrived. You should have seen how much fun we had watching ‘Titanic’ together last Tuesday night.”

Savannah, Drake’s little sister, has a crush on Bertrand, still unbeknownst to Bertrand. Maxwell knew, however.

“Well, you are my guest tonight, so I will let you pick the second movie.”

Without hesitating, “‘Pretty Woman’”, Savannah announced.

“Ha, I see where you are going with that,” Maxwell cheekily replied.

She laughed as she pulled out a chair next to Maxwell, who had taken a seat on the sofa.

“You know what your brother is like. If he sees it being played out before him, he will see for himself, and then he will realize, 'that's how the story goes.’ Or at the very least, I hope so.”

Maxwell looked at Savannah, shaking his head. "Ahhh, 'love is in the air.' You are getting desperate Sav. I hope he gets the hint....maybe you should wear a flower crown.”

"Ha ha, Maxxy!" Savannah sighed, shaking her head.

***

Sophie walked through the estate doors, returning with her aunt, after spending the day shopping. Feeling the excitement building up within her, she went up the grand staircase quickly, turned to the right and sprinted to her bedroom, depositing her parcels on top of her bed.

After putting away her new shoes, and hanging the garment bag into her walk-in closet, Sophie looked at the gift she selected for Liam. The Swarovski crystal paperweight, with a gold inlay, was a miniature statue of liberty. Sophie thought back to the conversation she shared with him the day she was introduced to Marabelle. Liam was fascinated with the fact that Sophie had visited the monument many times. Even though the prince had visited New York City a handful of times, his advisors dictated that visiting the tourist attraction was a safety risk. With his security detail constantly ghosting his movements, this symbol of freedom was elusive for him.

Similar to Liam, Sophie shared a love of history and described her visits to the statue and to Ellis Island. Liam was entranced with her insights and her knowledge of the backstory and meaning of the monument.

The gold inlay was engraved with the inscription, ‘your breath of freedom.’ A moniker, Liam gave to Sophie that day.

***

Walking into the theatre room, the smell of pizza wafting through the air, Sophie spotted Maxwell sitting comfortably on the sofa. He waved her over to sit beside him, handing her a tall cocktail glass of a blue liquid.

“Okay, Max, I give up.”

Sophie smirked at her cousin, taking a whiff of the drink.

“Ohhh, this smells so good. What’s in it?”

“Rum, vodka, blue curacao, pineapple juice, lime juice and ice.”

“Don’t forget your secret ingredient.” Savannah giggled.

“Hence. Secret. Ingredient!” Maxwell retorted.

“Hi, it’s Sophie, right?” Savannah smiled at Sophie, and swatted Maxwell.

As Maxwell feigned an injury, his eyes went wide when he realized that he didn’t introduce his cousin.

“Yeah, Maxwell!” Sophie extended her hand in greeting and then poked Maxwell in the ribs.

“What would Bertrand think?” Sophie teased.

“I am certainly not impressed Maxwell.” Bertrand huffed and walked past his brother sitting on the wingback across from the sofa.

Maxwell felt his cheeks redden. “What’s wrong with me?” Maxwell asked. “I’m always nice to people.”

“You’re being sarcastic, aren’t you?” Sophie raised an eyebrow.

“Yes, yes I am.” Maxwell challenged his brother, staring him down.

Savannah stood up and motioned to Sophie to come with her to get pizza.

“Yes, I am starving, good idea.” Sophie stood up to also get pizza with Savannah.

“Wait! You didn’t select the movie you want to watch, Soph.” Maxwell bounded up following Sophie to the pizza.

“Umm, let’s see...I know! “How about...’The Conjuring’?” Sophie answered.

“Ooaa, scary! Love it!” Maxwell pulled out his phone to add it to the movie queue.

***

After the first movie ended, Savannah moved over to sit beside Sophie and grabbed a handful of jelly beans from the candy bowl.

“So how did you like the first movie?”

Sophie smiled. “Honestly? I have seen it now for the fourth time.” Savannah laughed, “for me, it’s the third time; I really wish they had that type of dance in the clubs here in Cordonia.”

“Savannah is originally from Texas and is still getting used to the slower pace of courtly life here.” Maxwell sighed.

“Really, now I am curious. What should I expect at the Bash on Saturday?” Sophie looked puzzled at Savannah and Maxwell.

“It’s a pretty informal event, but there’s also going to be formal dancing after dinner. It’s a tradition here, especially with both princes attending.” Maxwell explained.

“Prince Leo has a reputation for being a bit of a ladies' man, even though he is betrothed to Madeleine. So, I imagine you might see some interesting things happening.” Savannah added.

“Interesting how?” Sophie wondered aloud.

“Well, the last time he attended, one of the guests was Princess Marguerite. She was dressed in a very revealing outfit, and Prince Leo was seen dancing with her quite a few times throughout the evening,” Savannah explained.

“Madeleine was livid and threw her drink in his face.” Maxwell chuckled.

“It is very unbecoming to gossip about members of court.” Bertrand interjected. “Sophia, don’t let these comments discolor your opinion of the noble life here in Cordonia.”

Changing the subject, Savannah asked, “What types of music do you like to dance to, Sophie?”

“Oh, I love dancing! But I never went to any clubs; only at parties or school events.”

“What types of music will be played after dinner this Saturday?”

“Mostly current pop music with the exception of the first dance. That is the one dance you can count on to be played by the orchestra. The Cordonian Waltz.”

“It’s a tradition for the King to dance with the senior noble of the house to open the dance floor for the guests.”

“For this Beaumont Bash, Crown Prince Leo will dance with my mother,” Maxwell added.

“Which reminds me, Sophie, I need to teach you how to dance this waltz.”

“Me? Why me?” Sophie challenged her cousin.

Without giving anything away to Sophie about Saturday and the planned surprise birthday celebration, he explained, “just in case you are asked to dance by Prince Liam.”

***

As the evening winded down, Savannah prepared to go home.

“Hey Savvy,” Sophie called out to her new friend.

“Can I ask you something?”

“Sure,” Savannah smiled.

“Do you have any advice for me about how to fix my hair for the Bash?”

“Why are you asking me this? I mean, you have such beautiful hair!”

“Yeah, well...I was thinking of wearing a half up-do and I need someone to help me pin it. Auntie Beth will be busy preparing for the dinner.”

“I would love to, I will get Drake to drop me off here an hour early on Saturday.”

***

It was the evening of the Beaumont Bash and Sophie was brushing her long, auburn hair. Sophie stared at her reflection in the mirror of the bathroom vanity.

Savannah was coming upstairs to help with her hair in a few minutes, and she had just finished applying her makeup.

‘Okay, Soph... tonight is the Bash...why are you so nervous?’

After dabbing her perfume on her neck and wrists, she slid the gold upper arm bracelet cuff into place, followed by her mother’s gold locket necklace around her neck.

Savannah knocked lightly on her bedroom door and opened it slowly.

“Are you ready for me?”

“Almost, come in, Savannah,” Sophie called.

***

Bertrand walked toward Sophie as she stepped off the grand staircase.

Taking her hand, he moved her toward the ornate double doors of the ballroom.

"Are you ready, my dear?"

Taking a deep breath Sophie replied, "yes".

Offering his arm, she slipped her hand around his arm and together they moved forward.

"Presenting his grace, Duke Bertrand Beaumont of Ramsford escorting Lady Sophia Taylor of House Beaumont."

📌Tagging in the comments...

⚜️Please let me know if you want to be added or removed from tags ⚜️

#marabelle #the royal romance #liam rys #prince liam #trr liam #tessa liam writes #choices fic writers creations #choices flashfics #choices monthly challenge #choices april challenge #choices monthly april challenge

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aprilchallenge · 1 year

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In The Woods

There's a surprise in store

For @aprilchallenge "campfire" and "sunrise”

Sienna is engaged! She met Dylan whilst working in PEDs and they got to know each other after Victoria and Ethan's wedding. They then announced they were a couple last Christmas

As this is mainly about Sienna I won't tag my usual tag list for this

#open heart #playchoices #pictagram #fluff #sienna trinh #choices monthly challenge #choices april challenge #choices april monthly challenge #choices fanfic

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aprilchallenge · 1 year

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Just a quick reminder 😍

I��ll be making a masterlist for the last submissions for April challenge.

It should be up by tomorrow in case anyone has any story, edit etc. to post for April challenge.

If yes you can still post any fic, edit etc. by today and tomorrow 🥰

If tags don’t work let me know 🥰

Thank you to all the writers / creators who participated and showed so much love towards this challenge 💚

Lots of love

-PR

#choices april monthly challenge #psa #last day of April challenge

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aprilchallenge · 1 year

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Bubble T

I woke up to a notification that today is National Bubble Tea Day. A funny picture I saw recently popped into my head. It couldn't be more Casey and Tobias, so here is some silliness.

Book: Open Heart (Book 2 Timeline) Pairing: Tobias Carrick x F!MC (Casey) Category: Text Fic/Fun/Spicy Rating: Teen A/N: Set shortly after they're finally coupled up. @aprilchallenge | Fun, Bubbles, Love, Laughter

They are a perfect match. lol

Permatags: @a-crepusculo @animesuck3r @annoyingmillenialnewbie @crazy-loca-blog @doriopenheart @differenttyphoonwerewolf @fayeswiftie @gryffindordaughterofathena @genevievemd @jamespotterthefirst @jennieausten @kingliam2019 @liaromancewriter @lucy-268 @onikalover @openheartforeverinmyheart @potionsprefect @quixoticdreamer16 @rookiemartin @secretaryunpaid @socalwriterbee @sophxwithers @tessa-liam @trappedinfanfiction @jerzwriter-reblogs-asks @openheartfanfics

OH Only: @annfg8 @binny1985 @coffeeheartaddict2 @mysticalgalaxysstuff @ofmischiefandmedicine @peonierose @youlookappropriate

Tobias Only: @kyra75 @icecoffee90

#open heart #tobias carrick #tobias carrick x mc #text fics #tobias x casey #open heart choices #choices open heart #choices april monthly challenge #playchoices #choices april challenge

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aprilchallenge · 1 year

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Day One (2/?)

Series Premise: What happened when Cassie met Sienna? Small moments that defined their friendship.

Book: Open Heart Characters: Cassie Valentine (F!MC), Sienna Trinh Rating/Category: Teen. Fluff. Words: 1,140 TW: Mention of minor character death

Catch up: Part 1

A/N: Submission for @choicesficwriterscreations You Go Girls event, and to @aprilchallenge prompt "laughter".

The penthouse apartment at the edge of Boston’s Beacon Hill neighborhood was quiet. Too quiet. Sienna Trinh glanced around the empty living room and kitchen. She thought how strange the apartment felt without Cassie Valentine in it.

From day one, she and Cassie had felt an instant connection as roomies. Sharing confidences and midnight snacks when neither could sleep. Baking cookies on a Sunday morning while the others slept in. Unwinding after a long day with a binge session of trashy reality TV shows and popcorn.

This apartment had become a home in the past year and a half. A refuge from the hard choices they faced as residents.

Eight months ago, Sienna had almost abandoned her dream of becoming a doctor. The realities of medicine were too harsh, even more so now with everything they’d been through.

In the space of forty-eight hours, Sienna had lost a dear friend to a senseless poison attack, watched another fall into a coma and urged her best friend to fight with everything she had. Except for a brief moment, Cassie hadn’t let despair derail her determination to live.

She closed her eyes and sighed deeply. It was late, and she should be asleep. She was working a double shift starting tomorrow, which was brutal without proper rest. But she knew sleep was the farthest thing from her mind right now. What she needed was her bestie.

Sienna wanted Cassie here, in this apartment that represented everything safe and good and right in their lives. Not in a sterile hospital room with machines beeping at all hours and the acerbic smell of antiseptic that permeated the walls.

An idea formed, and before she could talk herself out of it, Sienna marched into the bedroom to set everything into motion.

Almost an hour later, Sienna ducked inside the staff entrance, reflecting on how different Edenbrook was at night. The access to the Emergency Department and ambulance bay were always busy, but this part of the building was quieter. Most residents on the night shift were either on the floor or in the on-call room.

She first dropped her bag in the resident’s locker room, clipped her hospital ID on the lapel of her cardigan and then took the elevator to the medicine floor.

Visiting hours were long over, thought Sienna, but there were distinct advantages of working in a hospital. The nurse on duty would just assume she was on shift and checking on a patient. And that’s precisely what happened.

Not wanting to disturb Cassie if she was asleep, Sienna creaked open the door and popped her head through the crack. The ceiling lights were on low, and adjusting her eyes took a few seconds.

Sienna smiled when she saw Cassie was awake and thrumming her fingers against her stomach, as she did when she was bored.

“Want some company?” she called out.

“Hey! What are you doing here?” Cassie smiled in welcome, pressing the button to raise the back of the hospital bed.

Sienna entered, gently closing the door behind her, and placed a carry-on bag at the foot of the bed.

“I come bearing gifts. If you’re in the mood, of course,” she added quickly. “I can come back tomorrow if you’re tired.”

“Don’t you dare!” Cassie warned. “But, you’re not allowed to ask how I’m doing. Deal?”

Sienna pursed her lips as if considering, and then she grinned. “Deal!”

“I didn’t see you all day,” Cassie commented as Sienna pulled the visitor’s chair closer. “My parents were here earlier. I wanted them to meet you.”

“I’m sorry,” Sienna said. “I know Max wanted Twin Time, so I made myself scarce. And then I got busy with patients. I’m on the ICU floor this week.”

“It’s not a complaint, Si,” Cassie assured her. “I missed you, that’s all.”

She glanced curiously at the bag at the foot of the bed. “I’m dying to know what’s inside.”

“Well…” Sienna beamed and unzipped the bag, reaching inside with all the dramatic flair of Elijah’s unboxing videos. “I asked myself, if I had to stay in a hospital room, what would make that tolerable?”

Cassie gasped when Sienna pulled out her favorite nightgown. It was black silk with a scooped neckline and trimmed with lace. The matching robe followed.

“I can’t tell you how much I hate this hospital gown,” Cassie murmured, hugging the folded gown and robe to her chest like a teddy bear. “I’m going to get changed. Right now.”

She shoved the covers aside and climbed out of bed. Cassie waved away Sienna’s concern as she held on to the bed’s guardrail for a minute, letting her tired leg muscles adjust to gravity.

Cassie straightened once she had her bearings and carefully walked into the attached bath.

Sienna waited near the bathroom door in case her friend called for help, but Cassie returned a few minutes later with a pep in her step. Still, Sienna could see she was out of breath and helped her back into bed.

“What else?” Cassie asked, rubbing her hands in excitement.

Sienna pulled out an emergency make-up kit and portable mirror and set them on the tray trolley in front of Cassie. She also showed her the curling iron but didn’t remove it from the bag.

“Si!” Cassie exclaimed loudly before lowering her voice. “Omigod! You’re a miracle worker. A saint. They should name buildings after you.”

Sienna cheerily winked, grinning at the happiness on her bestie’s face. She still remembered how Cassie had looked in that room, sunken eyes, face drawn, a sense of defeat threatening to ruin everything.

“I mean, I know Ethan’s seen me at my worst, but I felt haggard every time he came to check on me,” Cassie said, unzipping the make-up bag and removing a few essentials. “Max just doesn’t get the life-affirming qualities of a good concealer and pretty lip gloss.”

“I know Max knows you best. But, as wonderful as he is, he’s still a guy.” Sienna shook her head in mock dismay. “And therefore clueless about what women truly need.”

Sienna rolled her eyes, and they both giggled. Soon they were doubled over in laughter, unable to stop even as they sucked in air.

“He tries his best,” Cassie said, wiping at the tears spiking her eyelashes. “Bless his heart.”

She held out the foundation to Sienna. “I know it’s the middle of the night, but I don’t want to wait till morning to feel like myself. Will you help me? My hands are still a bit shaky. The after-effects of everything, I suppose.”

Sienna sat down on the side of the bed and helped her friend feel like herself again. Later, she would think it was the best sleepover of her life, but thankfully not the last she would share with her best friend.

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All Fics & Edits: @annfg8 @bluebelle08 @coffeeheartaddict2 @crazy-loca-blog @doriopenheart @genevievemd @headoverheelsforramsey @lucy-268 @jamespotterthefirst @jerzwriter @lady-calypso @mainstreetreader @peonierose @potionsprefect @queencarb @quixoticdreamer16 @rookiemartin @socalwriterbee @takemyopenheart @tessa-liam @trappedinfanfiction

Submissions: @choicesficwriterscreations @openheartfanfics

#open heart #open heart choices #choices open heart #choices fic writers creations #cfwc you go girls #open heart fanfics #sienna trinh #sienna trinh x mc #open heart fanfiction #choices fanfics #choices april monthly challenge

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aprilchallenge · 1 year

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Book//Characters: Open Heart // f!MC (Celia Moore), Sienna Trinh

Words: 900+

Rating//Warning: G // No warnings

Summary: When she couldn’t sleep, Celia didn’t expect to find Sienna in the same situation. Luckily, cookies make everything better.

A/N: I realized I hadn’t really written Sienna before, so this is me just trying to figure out a bit more about their friendship.

Submission for You Go Girls! by @choicesficwriterscreations, and for @aprilchallenge with the prompt “cooking together”. Also using prompt “I’m right here if you need anything” from Caretaking dialogue ideas.

Also inspired by this ask from @peonierose

Keep reading

#open heart #open heart fanfiction #cfwc fics of the week #cfwc you go girls #celia moore #sienna trinh #choices april monthly challenge #playchoices #choices april challenge #choices fanfic

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aprilchallenge · 1 year

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Book: TRR AU/ Once upon a time prequel

Pairings:Liam x Savannah

Word count:1367

Disclaimer: All characters belong to pixelberry.

Rating: Mature

Warning: none

A/N: The @kingliamappreciationweek (day 1 ) was an excellent excuse to revisit my very old WIPs. Thank you @lizzybeth1986 for brainstorming the title for this fic that hopefully will be a mini series.

Prompt: That's how the story goes @choicesflashfics and flower, sunrise @aprilchallenge by @peonierose for @choicesmonthlychallenge

🥀🥀🥀🥀🥀🥀🥀🥀🥀🥀🥀🥀🥀🥀🥀🥀🥀🥀

The island of Corsica,

Mediterranean sea,

France.

The first rays of the rising sun kissed the peak of Monte Cinto igniting the deep red of the granite and then bowed at its foothills before bathing the valley of Lozzi. With the thick backdrop of chestnut forests and the evergreen sheet of the shrubs, the village of Lozzi brightened to its glory. The fragrance of the flowers of the Maquis carried far out across the land as life stirred awake on the “Scented Isle.”

Savannah was already up on her toes, hastening through her morning chores before she reached her workplace.

It had been a couple of years since she left Cordonia and had made her little abode on this island. She had no regrets, no complaints. With her qualifications she was able to pick up a job that helped her manage her expenses in Corsica. Moreover, she was grateful for having a reason to live. A reason to look at the world through the innocent blue eyes of her little munchkin. She thanked the Almighty in her prayers and then got ready for the day.

After a couple of hours, she walked down a curved path to a cream building that had a dull blue board with a large print of 'Middle school of Moltifao'. This was where she had found her happiness. She was re- living her childhood teaching history lessons to some ten year olds here. She entered a modest room decorated with hand made amateur charts.

Twenty one curious little minds were eagerly waiting in that room for an interesting story from their teacher, whom they adored. They were all delighted to see her and so was she.

Except, the topic for the day was a bit difficult for her to deal with. It was going to bring back memories of her 'Prince Charming' and so much more. But, 'the show must go on' she thought and began…

"We discussed Vatican City last time. Today let's talk about Cordonia. Can anyone tell me what's common between these two countries of Europe?" She made their little minds work.

The plump girl on the first desk shot her hand high in the air. Savannah smiled at the Hermione of her class.

"Yes, Susan, tell me."

" They are both absolute monarchies." She beamed proudly.

"You are right."

Rio, who always had doubts about anything and everything, interjected, "But why? I understood the reasons for Vatican City in the last class Ms Walker. Why is Cordonia ruled by a king when the rest of the countries in Europe have elected governments?"

"Good question, Rio. Cordonia had its own struggle too. There was a period of unrest when a group of people revolted and did not want the royals. But everything changed when King Liam took over the reins."

She felt the blush rising to her cheeks. She was irritated, realizing what effect his name had on her even after all these years.

She covered up her nervousness and shifted her gaze from Rio to the rest of the class. "Anyone know about him and how he brought about the change?"

Susan again stretched her hand high, but so did Sana, the quietest of them all. Savannah smiled at Susan in an understanding and then asked Sana to speak. "He is King Liam, the wise. He is very kind, cares for his people and loves them."

"Very good, Sana!" She encouraged her.

Sana coyly looked at her classmates and when she saw everyone smiling, she continued, "King Liam belongs to the Rhys dynasty. Ever since his coronation he has helped his people. He relaxed many rules to ease out the life of common people. Unlike other nobles he gels with commoners and is comfortable with us."

The last word sent Savannah's mind on a spin. 'She said 'us'. What does she mean by 'us'? Is she from Cordonia? What are the odds? Will my secret be revealed?' her thoughts were racing yet she maintained her poise and politely asked, "That's very nice,Sana. How do you know these details?"

"My aunt lives in Cordonia. They have apple orchards there. Aunt Cher told me there was an attack once by bad people and all their orchards were destroyed. She says King Liam waived off the taxes and came down himself to work with farmers. That's how the story goes." Sana concluded.

Savannah would have been lost in her thoughts, of her time with him around the apple trees, had Nader not raised a question, "Did he fight the bad people?"

Sana shrugged her shoulders and looked at her teacher for an answer.

Savannah composed herself again, "Not exactly, Nader. The attacks happened when King Liam was just crowned."

Nader interjected wide eyed, " You mean there were more than one attack?"

Savannah nodded sadly. "Cordonia had a tough time. Liam had to face another such attack before he could prove himself. But under his command, the military became stronger, the council became more sympathetic to the needs of citizens and the country started flourishing. The bad people had to give up their fight and accept that Liam is the best ruler they have had in a century."

Emanuel, the wise boy of the class shared his opinion, "He seems to be a very nice person."

Savannah felt a wave of pride as she added, "Indeed he is. Liam is liked by not just his countrymen but he is even a favorite in meetings held at global levels. And guess why?" She spurred the kids.

Emanuel replied or rather questioned back, "Is it because he is very kind and always respectful?"

Savannah agreed, "Yes Emanuel, he is affectionate and gentle. He is courteous and obliging to all. That is the whole reason he is called people's king."

Rachel asked in a shy tone, "Is he handsome?"

Savannah almost snorted at the little girl's interest, "Very much! He is the most gallant and chivalrous gentleman you will ever meet."

"What does he look like?"

Savannah realized that she had turned as red as Rachel, blushing while she answered. " He is tall and a strong man. He looks at you with the calmest blue eyes and he is ever smiling, making you forget all your worries." This was getting a bit out of hand so she thought of changing the topic but the children seemed unstoppable.

Dave raised a point that turned out to be the most disturbing for Savannah, "Did you ever meet him or see him?"

She closed her eyes for a moment. 'I was supposed to be with him but I can't tell you that.' She took a deep breath before she spoke. "Yes, I was lucky to see and meet him a few years ago."

Some of the kids gasped at that. She responded with a weak smile. Rachel seemed to be fascinated just as Savannah was as a little girl. So she inquired, "That must be like a dream come true!"

Savannah nodded through teary eyes and tried to curb the choking feeling in her throat. 'No more.' she couldn't fight her emotions for long so she decided to wrap up the session.

She swallowed thickly, "I think that's enough for today's class. Your assignments are due next week. Till then, read well and enjoy the tales from the past." She waved off with her signature line. She picked up her belongings and scurried away from the class in an effort to hide the overwhelming feeling she had.

Her students were to just read their history books but for her it was revisiting those excruciating wounds that were left from the memories of the man she loved.

She moved out of the door and started to her left without looking. She thought she banged into a wall but it was cushioned and smelled familiar. Too familiar. Like a part of her. No, it was the missing part of her. She shut her eyes tight to shoo away the daydream but the sound that followed, confirmed that it was real.

"If you like me so much, why did you leave me?" Liam lamented in his deep tone. Savannah slowly opened her eyes, to face the set of peaceful ocean blues. She lost all her control and the dams of her eyes came crashing down.

(part 2 coming soon. Thank you so much for reading 😊)

Tags: @3pawandme @alj4890 @angelasscribbles @annabellewynter @bascmve01 @bebepac @busywoman @dcbbw @choicesficwriterscreations @harleybeaumont @iaminlovewithtrr @karahalloway @kingliam2019 @lovingchoices14 @nestledonthaveone @neotericthemis @mom2000aggie @phoenixrising0308 @princess-geek @sazanes @secretaryunpaid @sfb123 @sillydg @tessa-liam @tinkie1973 @txemrn @walkerdrakewalker @rubiwalker @703cowbarn @kyra 75 @likealotus @kskvb20 @marietrinmimi @juan-francisco-palencia

#klaw day 1 #kingliamappreciationweek #choices fic writers creations #choicesflashfics #pixelberry #playchoices #the royal romance #trr fandom #trr #king liam #choices monthly april challenge

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aprilchallenge · 1 year

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Flipping Love

[Bryce Lahela x Olivia Hadley Masterlist]

Pairing: Bryce Lahela x Olivia Hadley (F!OC)

Book: Open Heart

Word Count: ~750

Rating/Warning: General (all the fluff, cooking together)

Prompt: @aprilchallenge breakfast, family, love, kiss

Synopsis: Bryce attempts to make pancakes for Olivia.

Art by the incredible and always wonderful irdeinfierno (Insta).

Olivia sat perched on the kitchen counter, her legs crossed beneath her as she watched Bryce move about the kitchen. She couldn't help but giggle at the sight of him fighting with the lumpy batter. "Do you need some help?"

Bryce shook his head stubbornly, determined to figure it out on his own. He had watched her time and time again make it look so effortless. How hard could making boxed pancakes be? It was just the mix with water added. He was a world-class cardiothoracic surgeon; he would not be bested by breakfast food.

He stood in front of the stove, looking down at the griddle. With careful movements, he dropped a dollop of batter onto the buttered pan. The cool mix sizzled as it met the heat of the pan. He let out an exhale he didn't know he had been holding in.

Olivia giggled again and watched as Bryce walked over to her with a confident stride.

"Nothing to it." His hands pressed against the counter on either side of her.

"You're awfully confident for someone who hasn't actually completed a pancake yet. There is a delicate way to flip them appropriately to avoid the uncooked batter from dripping, folding, or becoming a general mess," she advised.

"I think I can handle it, magic hands, remember," he whispered, the heat of his breath tickling her face. His lips met hers softly before she could reply.

She grinned as he pulled away, "What was that for?"

"Because I pancake my eyes off of you." He winked with a smirk. "I couldn't help but kiss you when you look so damn gorgeous."

"Is that so?" She licked her lips, flipping her hair flirtatiously. "Then, perhaps you should give me another."

"I know what you're doing—" he began, heading back to the stove. He reached for the spatula, "—But, I won't be distracted. I've got this."

"If you insist." Her arms extended behind her as she leaned back, watching in amusement as he attempted to flip the pancake.

The black spatula scraped against the dark surface of the pan, inching under the circular blob of batter. With a quick flick of his wrist, he attempted to launch the pancake into the air, but instead of landing neatly, the pancake folded in on itself and landed in a crumpled mess.

He grumbled, trying to understand what had happened. He had followed all the directions.

She slid silently beside him, her hand caressing softly up his back. "The other side wasn't done enough. You have to wait for the right amount of little bubbles. You want the bottom side to be golden brown, and the top side should be starting to cook. This way, it's firm enough to hold up during the flip."

"You make it sound so easy."

"Let me help you." She leaned in, kissing his cheek. "We can do it together. You pour, and I'll flip."

"I just want to be able to make you and our little one breakfast," he grumbled in disappointment. "What kind of father can't make pancakes?"

"More than you'd think, I"m sure."

"Liv!"

"You're going to be an amazing father, Bryce!" Her hand rested on her flat stomach. "Whether you can make pancakes or not, you will love our child with everything you are, and I have no doubts about that."

He nodded thoughtfully, wrapping an arm around her waist. "What would I do without you?" Bryce pressed a kiss to the top of her head and then poured another round of batter out.

"You'll never have to find out." She leaned into him, watching the pancake carefully, lifting the edges slightly to check as it neared time, talking through each step as she went. Pancakes piled up on the plate beside them as they worked together, creating perfectly golden fluffy pancakes.

His fingers threaded gingerly through her long red waves as she flipped the last of the pancakes with ease. "I flipping love you."

A slow smile spread across her face as she turned off the stove, placing the last pancake on the stack. She cut out a pad of butter, letting it fall on the top. It began to melt immediately atop the warm fluffy bed.

Olivia turned into him, a soft smile gracing her face, "Life's butter with you."

His gaze filled with warm adoration as he took her hand, his thumb brushing softly over her knuckles. "But you make it even sweeter. Me and our little one are lucky to have you."

I was planning on just posting the art, but then I had this silly idea and here we are. This is a pointless fluffy moment between these two but it seems to be fitting. Earlier in their series, Bryce has to call Olivia to make pancakes for Keiki because he's hopeless ( The Perfect Breakfast). Here he is getting better, and in a few months time, he will have perfected breakfast cooking for his very pregnant wife. ( Breakfast + Dessert )

Mug is a shout out to the fic For You.

Thank you so much for reading. I hope you enjoyed this! 💛💛💛

#bryce lahela #bryce lahela x mc #bryce lahela x oc #bryce oph #open heart #open heart 2 #playchoices #choices #choices game #olivia hadley #choices monthly april challenge

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aprilchallenge · 1 year

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Beautiful Stranger

Premise: Ethan Ramsey wasn’t looking forward to tonight, and then he met the woman of his dreams.

Book: Open Heart (AU) Pairing: Ethan Ramsey x F!MC (Cassie Valentine) Rating/Category: Teen. Fluff. Trope: Soulmates; Gala Words: 1,610

A/N: This fic is inspired by an ask from last year where I talked about AUs if Cassie wasn't a doctor. I'm using @choicesflashfics week 30, prompt 3 (in bold). Submission for @aprilchallenge prompt "dress".

The entryway to the Washington Hudson Hotel in DC’s Adams Morgan was lined with black town cars and limos. Passengers disembarked under the covered portico, posed for cameras on either side of the red carpet, rolled out in welcome and followed ushers to the Art Deco ballroom.

Security guards in severe black suits prevented anyone from entering without an invitation. Sweat beaded their foreheads, more from the spotlights than the late spring evening, but dark sunglasses hid any discomfort.

Dr. Ethan Ramsey waited impatiently to be let out of the black limo his mentor and friend, Dr. Naveen Banerji, had insisted on renting for the occasion.

“I’m the guest of honor, after all,” he’d said, a Zen-like smile on his face. “Can’t just roll up in a Jalopy.”

Ethan couldn’t fault him that logic, even if he privately thought it excessive to drive two blocks from their hotel. But, then, the man was literally a saint and deserved this minor luxury.

Naveen was being honored tonight with a Humanitarian Service Lifetime Achievement Award from the Valentine Foundation for his work in advancing medical care in developing countries.

The black-tie event was part of the National Medical Symposium’s festivities, where Ethan was invited to present a keynote. An incredible accomplishment, given he’d become an attending not quite a year ago.

Ethan enjoyed the education and dialogue at these conferences but preferred socializing at a bar over scotch. However, Naveen had taught him that these social events were essential for advancing his career and getting sponsors to fund research projects. A necessary evil in medicine.

Finally, the rear door opened from outside, and Ethan slid out of the backseat. Naveen followed, waving and smiling at the flashing cameras as if he was at the Oscars. Ethan ignored everyone, marching through the glass doors, invitation card in hand.

“You were in a hurry,” Naveen said pleasantly, joining Ethan in the soaring foyer outside the ballroom.

“They didn’t care about me.” Ethan rolled his eyes and smirked. “I’m not the guest of honor, after all.”

Naveen chuckled, bumping shoulders with Ethan. “No, but with your looks, they probably thought you were a reality TV star. Off to give your chosen lady a red rose. That’s how the story goes.”

Ethan’s brows furrowed in confusion. “Why reality TV? What story? And I’m not carrying a rose.”

Naveen shook his head in dismay. “You know, my friend. There’s more to life than medicine.”

Before Ethan could counter that remark, Naveen turned away to greet someone he knew. Left to his own devices, Ethan glanced around the room, recognizing some faces from the conference. But if he was going to schmooze, he needed a stiff drink first.

Almost an hour later, Ethan escaped the crowded ballroom through French doors leading to a moonlit balcony overlooking the dark gardens below. He needed a few minutes of respite from the politicking and socializing that was part of the Valentines’ world.

Ever since he’d learned about the award, Naveen hadn’t stopped talking about the family. Being a Rhodian, Ethan certainly knew of the Valentines of Newport, but they didn’t run in the same circles as the son of a cable repairman from Providence.

He suspected they were like the other donors he’d met inside that ballroom; insanely wealthy and spoiled with a sense of entitlement. The foundation was probably a vanity project for one of the trophy wives, he thought dismissively.

He strode to the wrought-iron balustrade, gripping the edge as he threw his head back and took a deep breath. A floral scent hit his senses before he heard the rustle of fabric.

He spun on his heels to see a beautiful young woman standing against the wall, the hem of her shimmering midnight blue dress hiked up to reveal one silken white thigh.

Her hand froze; a black lace garter strap caught between her fingers. Ethan’s eyes involuntarily followed as the top of a sheer black stocking slid down her skin, catching where her leg was bent at the knee.

His eyes snapped to her face, tracing the arch of her brows, the flushed cheekbones and red lips parted lightly. Long blonde hair fell to the side, past her shoulder, the ends curling softly.

A glittering hair clip on the left side of her head held back the rest. The style revealed diamonds and sapphires dripping from her earlobe, matching the necklace cradled between the valley of her breasts.

Her fragrance enveloped him, his nostrils flared, and all Ethan could think was, “Mine!”

She gasped, or he did. Maybe it was the moonlight, or perhaps it was fate. He hadn’t had enough top-shelf scotch to blame the alcohol. At this point, he wasn’t sure what was happening to him.

“A gentleman would look away. Or lend a hand.”

Ethan heard the amusement in her soft melodic voice and glimpsed the teasing sparkle in her eyes. He wondered if they were blue like his. A strong probability, given the color of her hair.

He took a step toward her and then another, closing the distance between them. His hand unthinkingly reached for the dangling garter strap in her hand but stopped at the warning look in her eyes. Up close, he saw they were green with flecks of blue or black.

Ethan held up his hands in a truce. “That was a rhetorical statement, wasn’t it?”

She scoffed, clearly deeming it unworthy of a response. She quickly reattached her loose stocking and adjusted her dress. The fabric covered her from top to bottom, the hem brushing the toes of her high heels.

The dress would’ve been modest except for how it hugged her curves, accentuating every part of her that his fingers ached to touch.

“You’re staring again,” she said huskily, her chest rising and falling with rapid, shallow breaths.

Appalled, Ethan blurted out an apology. “I’m sorry. I–– “

He felt his skin flush, and the tips of his ears turn red. If anyone from Edenbrook saw him now, they’d surely laugh at his expense. Frustrated, he stabbed his fingers into his hair.

The woman threw him a strange look, her brows twisting in a V shape. Without a word, she turned to walk away, but he wasn’t ready to let her go.

He instinctively tried to stop her, his fingers brushing the back of her hand. They both hissed as an electric current flashed and pulsed where their skin met.

She held her hand against her chest, stroking the sensitive area with her thumb as if trying to rub away their connection. But she didn’t leave, nibbling on her bottom lip as she regarded him with a perplexed expression.

“I have no excuse for my behavior,” he began, hesitating as he searched for the words that would make her want to stay. “This is not like me at all. I’m not a risk taker. I don’t gamble with my feelings. I don’t ogle strangers at parties, even if they are beautiful. I’m a doctor, a man of science and logic. I…”

“So, you expect me to believe that you don’t know who I am?” she asked in disbelief. “And your arrival on this balcony a few minutes after me was a pure coincidence?”

Ethan looked at her, bewildered. “Should I know you? Have we met before?”

She stared into his eyes, searching for some inner truth. She must have found it, for she nodded and smiled.

“Okay, doctor. I believe you. Since you’re a man of science, care to explain that?”

She pointed to their hands, now resting against their sides. But there were tiny vibrations under the skin, wanting to reach across the space and connect with its mate.

“It’s nothing,” he said warily.

He shoved his hands inside his pant pockets and rocked back on his heels. For some reason, that made her laugh, and a knowing look entered her eyes. It was too astute for his comfort, and he felt laid bare.

“A man of science should know that some things defy expectations,” she mused, tapping one finger against her lips. “And every scientific achievement in history was because someone decided it was worth the risk.”

The sound of a bell ringing in the distance reached their ears, breaking the uneasy silence that followed her words.

“I have to go back inside,” she sighed. “I would say it was a pleasure, but honestly, I don’t know what this was. And I suspect we’re both not ready to find out.”

Ethan watched her walk away, and his feet itched to follow. But he waited, needing a few minutes to collect himself.

When he returned to the ballroom, he scanned the vast room for any sign of Naveen. His height gave him an advantage, and he spotted the other man in an animated conversation with someone, gesticulating excitedly.

Ethan swiftly navigated through throngs of people, slowing down as he neared Naveen. The person ahead of him moved away, and his steps faltered when he saw her.

She must have sensed him too, because she suddenly looked over her shoulder, her green eyes registering surprise as they locked into his shocked blue ones.

“Ah, Ethan, there you are,” Naveen called out. “Come meet my benefactor. Cassie Valentine is the head of the Valentine Foundation and the person who nominated me for tonight’s award. Cassie, meet Dr. Ethan Ramsey, my protégé and one of the most gifted diagnosticians of his generation.”

Ethan Ramsey did not believe in moonlight madness or fate. But for one brief moment, he did, and now his world had turned upside down. What’s more? Cassie’s amused smirk told him she knew it too.

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

Submissions: @choicesficwriterscreations @openheartfanfics

Ethan & Cassie only: @cariantha @custaroonie @hopelessromantic1352 @mrs-ramsey

#ethan ramsey #ethan ramsey x mc #open heart #open heart choices #choices open heart #open heart fanfics #open heart fanfiction #choices fic writers creations #cfwc fics of the week #choices fanfics #choices april monthly challenge

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aprilchallenge · 1 year

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Eleanor's Kitchen

Books: The Royal Romance/Heir, Rules of Engagement

Pairing: Queen Eleanor & Prince Leo + Liam (mother-sons/siblings), Leo x Damien (mentioned in RoE) (romantic), Liam & Jason (OC) (platonic).

Rating: PG

Summary: Liam notices Leo's friendship with Damien, their gardener's eldest son, becoming stronger.

Series: Eleanor's Kitchen

Note: Damien (not Nazario from PM!) has been mentioned in this scene in Rules of Engagement, Book 2. I played fast and loose with the timelines for this backstory, and have given Damien a younger brother who was Liam's age.

This chapter takes place almost a year following Ch 3. Liam is now 8 years old, Leo is 15.

Word Count: 3, 718 words

Tagging @kingliamappreciationweek for KLAW Day 4: Childhood, @aprilchallenge for the prompt "just want to be with you", and @choicesholidays for National Sibling Appreciation Day (April 10th).

Chapter 4: Garídes Saganáki

(Photo from this recipe)

Liam greets the salt air that briefly kisses his face, and the sand that pools around his toes at the beach, with a sense of homecoming. This beach has felt as much like his home as the palace he was born in, suffused with memories of sandcastles and uniquely-shaped seashells and the rush of excitement that came every time a wave crashed against the shore.

And most of all, it feels like home for the moments long past. For the rare times both he and Leo did things together, back when Leo actually liked taking him along for things. When his talk was actually more talk and less eyerolling and "oh you're too young to understand". The love is still there, and so is the need to protect each other (especially against Father's acid remarks, usually aimed at Leo) - just...the companionship isn't, any longer.

The sad, sinking feeling that used to emerge from realizing that is, thankfully, rare now - Liam much prefers the company of his own friends - but when he was four and hanging on to his big brother's every word, it had stung.

"Every big brother does that," his newest friend, Jason, shrugged. Jason is the palace gardner Giorgos Vasilakis' youngest son, accompanying his father since last year on visits to the Queen to discuss the plans surrounding her dream project: the palace hedge maze, that was to echo the one in Château de Villandry in France. Jason's older brother Damien had always been the one at Kýrios Vasilakis' side before that, but of late Liam has begun to associate his presence more with his own elder brother.

Jason is lonely. Unlike Liam, who has managed to bring together his own motley band of merry playmates, Jason has only the one older brother and has never gotten the chance to venture beyond the palace and his father's cottage. Liam has experienced only a fraction of that kind of loneliness and it had felt like hell. He and Jason may not know each other well, but he'll be damned if he let the other boy he has no one. And so he brings Jason along to meet all his friends.

Both Liam's and Jason's older brothers accompany the group of exhilarated children to the beach, but slip away in another direction before the group can notice. Liam notes the direction Leo and Damien are headed - their heads leaning towards each other as they walk - but says nothing. More friends, Liam reminds himself of his purpose here, first make sure we give Jason more friends.

Liam isn't disappointed. Before long, Jason's name has been shortened to Jase, his shorts and shirt have been drenched from jumping over the crashing waves with Maxwell, and he's snacking happily over pine nuts with Drake and Olivia. He even enjoys collecting seashells with Tariq, even if he did find him a little odd at first.

"I can understand not wanting to get your shoes wet but why would he want to keep them 30 feet away from the sea??"

Liam giggles a little. "They're not just shoes! They're...uh... Salvatore Ferra-somethings!" he says, already forgetting the Italian names that slip so easily from Tariq's tongue when he's talking about a shoe brand. Liam would too, if his father spoke his ears off about shoes as much as Tariq's did.

"If you say so," Jason replies doubtfully. What a funny bunch of people these nobles and royals are, he must be thinking, "but what if they get stolen?"

"Then Tariq will sniff and say he hopes they were stolen by someone who truly understands the value and beauty of Italian shoes."

Just before they leave, the children build a sandcastle. Liam and Jason deem themselves the architects of the main structure, Drake and Olivia choose to build a fortress. Maxwell ropes in a skeptical Tariq to help him construct a fantastic "Tower of Fun and Parties" right next to the castle itself. They are almost done when Jason stands up, declares the castle incomplete without a good garden, and pokes dots into the sand to form imaginary flowers.

For a moment all they can hear is the shriek of the gulls and the buffeting crash of the waves. They are all silent, and smiling, and very, very proud of themselves.

This structure is the biggest sandcastle the children have ever built themselves thus far, and by the time Leo and Damien return (hair damp, skin glistening, breathing hard as if they'd jumped down the steep cliffs of the Forgotten Falls and climbed back up, hands very close but not really touching) they are all convinced it is the biggest castle they ever will conceive of building. Even if it is one built in sand, soon to be a victim to the crashing waves.

Liam puts on his baking gloves, balancing himself on the balls of his feet as he waits to take his freshly-baked bread out of the oven. It's a moment he likes to gear himself up for - there's just something, some magic, about that first, comforting, soul-filling whiff. He'd experienced that feeling the first time he actually watched Chef Anais bake, and he's felt it ever since.

His version of Greek village-style bread is perfect today - the crust a lovely brown with little cracks and ridges to show off how crisp its outside is, and he is certain the inside will be soft and a light shade of yellow from the semolina he added to it. The aroma is good enough to make his mother stop in the middle of her own cooking just to breathe it in.

Her face covered in a fine sheen of sweat today from the heat in the kitchen, her hair bunched into a wrap and her hands waving away steam and smoke from her face. Liam can't quite tell whether it is excitement he sees on her face or exhaustion. But from the corner of his eye as he carries the bread to the table to rest, he can tell it is more of the former.

There are two pots boiling away at once on the stove: one a creamy, garlicy, peppery fish broth; the other a beautifully silky tomato-based sauce that he knows from experience will become even silkier and creamier when Mum adds a sinfully liberal amount of feta chesse to it.

He almost reaches out for it with a spoon when his mother stops him.

"Ah-ah-ah!" Mum says, playfully wagging her finger, "Not yours, thisavré mou. This is for your brother and his friend only. That's why I'm making something with your favourite Stone Bass fish as well. For you and your friend."

Liam frowns. "But I've had shrimp saganaki before. You know I like it too. Why couldn't you just make a bigger batch?"

Mum lets out a sigh suffused with embarrassed laughter. Her hand inadvertently motions itself towards a bottle of alcohol on the table titled Ouzo. "This one is... different. Not for children."

Liam pouts in petulance. Of late reminders that he is still a child and his brother isn't have begun to annoy him. There is something so mythical about teenagehood, Liam is beginning to realise, something he wants to know more about but is too out of his reach to even begin to understand.

Don't be so eager to let go of your childhood, pet, then you'll spend the rest of your life wanting it back, Mum would often tell him. All that phrase does now is make him even more impatient.

The smell of ripened crushed tomatoes, mixing in with the garlic, onions, and chilis, makes for a heady combination. He secretly thanks Uncle Franci for sending them yet another carton of San Marzanos - Mum said he'd written in his last letter that his wife, Aunt Pari, would be making a trip down to her home province of Bethulia soon for the Navroze festival, and was hoping Mum would come celebrate it with her this year.

There is another aroma in the sauce Liam has never smelled before, and has a hard time identifying - it's slightly pungent and makes his eyes water a little. It must be from the bottle of Ouzo.

Mum tosses the feta into the small, two-handled heavy-bottomed frying pan at will - she has never really been one for measurements - and quickly places the pan beneath the broiler to melt the cheese. Liam watches in fascination as her hands crumble extra feta; there is no rubric for how much, she just stops when she feels like it. Just throw! she will tell him anytime he asks her for a measuring cup. Cooking for Mum has always been just a play of hands; trust your hands and give them their time with the ingredients - and the results may not always be consistent but over time they will be forever delicious.

Liam has timed his baking closely enough that by the time both his and Leo's dishes are ready, his bread will have rested long enough, and is ready to serve as a side.

They find Leo talking to Jason's brother at one of the more intimate drawing rooms of the palace, their heads so close they're almost touching. Both their hands are jammed into their pockets, as if they'd hurriedly put them there from whatever their original position was. Their eyes dart everywhere and both seem to turn a little pink. A curl from Damien's dark hair rests carelessnessly on his forehead, and Liam catches his brother looking at it at least twice.

Jason skips to Liam's side. "Where is everyone else?" he whispers.

"Drake and his sister have gone to Texas to stay with their aunt, Olivia's with one of the Elders in Lythikos, Maxwell and Tariq are back home. It's just me, I'm afraid." Liam shuffles his feet in uncharacteristic awkwardness. He knows that a lot of the things he likes to talk about can either bore or confuse his own friends.

"Good enough for me," Jason says, grinning. "Her Majesty says she's got us fish stew."

"Bianco. And shrimp saganaki for Leo and Damien." Liam lowers his voice in a conspiratorial whisper. "Don't tell your dad - Mum made those herself. Father built her her own kitchen two and a half years ago. Not many besides some of the kitchen staff know."

Jason's eyes widen at the bowl that's just arrived, and then brightens. Imagine that, being treated to the cooking of an actual queen!

Mum had wisely decided to seat the pairs of brothers in different areas, confident that they would be bored stiff if they were made to eat together. It's a lot better this way, Liam thinks, as Jason talks animatedly of the new toys his dad got him with the increase in his salary from last month onwards. Leo and Damien would perhaps find their chats rather silly, and a lot of the things they say fly like seagulls over Liam and Jason's heads.

The Bianco is as good as Liam and Jason had hoped: the sauce smooth and creamy, the fish mildly sweet and with flesh so soft it crumbles a little on the tongue. Liam can't help but puff his chest in pride as he and Jason use the bread he made to sop up the rest of the sauce, the heat from the pepper and garlic and the delightful tang from the lemon warming them all down to their toes. Jason tells Liam to tell Her Majesty to forgive his lack of manners but he is this close to licking his plate.

Normally, Liam would be ecstatic about getting to eat a Stone Bass, especially here where the catch is always today's, wild and fresh and soul-stirringly tasty..."not that garbage you get from the fish farms" as Grandmother used to say.

But his thoughts keep crawling back to the meal his and Jason's older brothers got. The dish that has been so familiar to him all these years, yet seems so alien now. All because of an added mysterious... thing that seems all the more exciting because he isn't allowed to touch it.

Liam goes and sneaks a look at where their brothers sit, enjoying their shrimp. Leo looks over to his friend's plate, notices his bread is over, breaks his own loaf apart and offers it to Damien, looking straight into his eyes as he dips it into his sauce and eats it. Damien's fingers lightly brush his as he takes the bread.

"You know who made that bread?" Leo's voice for some reason sounds different, warmer and deeper and a little more serious. Liam turns pink with forgotten filial pleasure at the note of pride in his words. "Liam. My baby brother."

Damien grins. "There's sauce near your lip."

Leo makes a great show of pretending not to know where. "Where?"

Damien looks left and right - and satisfied that they cannot be seen (Liam heaves a sigh of relief as he emerges from behind a corner Leo and Damien cannot clearly see) takes his napkin and dabs softly at the corner of his mouth. The two boys suddenly cannot look each other in the eye, and their smiles hold secrets that make Liam feel like an intruder on this little moment, for perhaps no reason. Damien's only cleaning Leo's face.

But when he returns and tells Jason what he saw, the other boy stays silent for a few minutes.

"Babás almost saw Prince Leo at our home once," Jason says quietly, "Mamá had to hide him in a cupboard."

"But why?" Liam asks back, puzzled, "I thought Kýrios Vasilakis liked him. Ever since he started attending his lessons regularly and actually -"

"I know. I thought so too. I'm not sure why Leo and Damien and Mamá look so scared these days. No one ever tells me." Jason finishes with a nonchalant shrug that belies his petulant frustration at not being told things he cannot fully understand.

Liam sighs, all thoughts of their brothers forgotten. "No one thinks I'm old enough to understand anything either."

As Liam watches Jason's older brother reluctantly take leave of his own, their gazes lingering more than their touches ever could...and realises how childishly enthusiastic their own goodbyes are, Liam goes to bed wondering what Leo's shrimp saganaki tastes like. Is it pungent? Is it sweet? Does it leave a bitter aftertaste?

That night, Liam lies in bed in his silk unicorn-and-rainbow pajamas, burningly aware of how like a child he looks in it. How unlike his older brother - in his leather jackets and carelessly tousled hair. He begins counting the months before his mother can properly deem him "of age", and falls asleep before he can even reach his pre-teen years.

Days later, Leo takes a walk around the Wishing Well with his mother.

It's amazing how much things have changed in the years Eleanor has been married to Constantine, and therefore into the Royal Family. His little son had only been four then, and he'd hidden behind his father the first few times she tried to come near. Constantine and his mother had fumed over this in the beginning, wanting to help ease him into trusting her but neither having a whole lot of patience - so it had been up to her to reassure him that they would only set his relationship with her at his pace.

And it had paid off. Little Leo had once seen the "new mother" outside, trying to stargaze, and sat beside her in silence, listening for half an hour as she pointed out constellations. She'd known he loved stargazing and knew he needed a companion of sorts The first ever times they talked were all about stars...until five months later when he lost interest and Eleanor found out whatever it was that captured his fancy next.

Still, because that night was the night they tentatively began to consider themselves mother and son, she often brings back memories of it by calling him astéri mou.

"Your tutors have been very pleased with you this year," Eleanor says, suppressing a little smile, "they've been seeing how hard you've been working at your studies lately." There's a mischievous glow in her eyes. "Any more efforts and you'll soon be surpassing Liam, they say."

Leo snorts. He knows, no matter how hard he tries, that he can never reach his kid brother's level in either interest or acumen for politics. That is a quality unique to just him and he's more than happy to let him bask in it, but ever since Damien....

A quick, intense memory of him flashes. Dark curls, full lips, skin smooth beneath Leo's fingertips. It had amazed him how they'd been playmates one minute, pretending to be pirates and running around the palace gardens, and he'd never in all that time noticed that kind of gut-capturing beauty. His voice deep and passionate at the Forgotten Falls two weeks ago, as Damien whispered into his hair, "Let me hold you for a bit. We don't have to talk...we don't have to do anything. I just want to be with you."

He knows becoming a good King will be a hundred times harder for him than it was for his father, than (he is beginning to realize) it could be for his brother. He had made his peace with that at some point this year. But being around Damien...knowing that in his future position a relationship like theirs could be both legally permitted and morally viewed as sheer irresponsibility (and this is in only the kindest of parallel universes) and still knowing it is a relationship he cannot ever conceive of giving up...

If he could just prove himself capable in every other area of his life, just please his father and bring pride to his mother in other ways, maybe both his father and Damien's may just not force what they could have together, to die.

Mamá sighs. "Leo...astèri mou. You don't understand. I am already proud of you."

Oh no. Had he just said the words aloud?

He responds to her answer with another question. "How did you find out about us, Mamá?"

She shakes her head. "Kyría Vasilikou." Damien's mother, who hid Leo in a cupboard that one time Kyríe Vasilikos almost caught them. She had been extraordinarily kind and very contrite - sending Leo with a box of melomakarona and begging him never to come to this house again for fear of what Damien's father may do to him next.

He remembers Mamá's words from that evening.

"Damien's father - and his father before him - are extraordinarily dedicated to the King. It was His father that ensured their family would be set for many, many years to come...and his gratitude towards them can make him blind to what could make his own son happy."

The mother who had birthed him, the one he had often called Mummy, is at best a faded memory now. He called Eleanor Mamá almost a year after she'd married his father, because he finally felt ready and because it suited her. That evening, he understood his Mamá's underlying message.

I will always support you. But until we can figure out a way, you must be careful.

And so he will be. Both Damien and he will try their darnedest not to be too obvious about their love for each other...and Leo will continue to work harder on his lessons.

Smiling, Mamá changes the subject. "Liam's very upset we won't let him have shrimp saganaki."

Leo bursts out laughing. "He's had it so many times already!"

She shrugs. "Oh no, not that way. He's demanding the "Leo and Damien special". Ouzo and all. I suspect the baby of our family wants to be seen as a baby no more."

He rolls his eyes. "He's going to be really disappointed. It's not going to be that different from regular saganaki. Just makes it taste a little bit more like anise."

If that isn't a fitting symbol of what adolescence feels like when you come out of your big impractical dreams of what adolescence might be, Eleanor doesn't know what is. It is a lesson they all learned the hard way, only to see their children struggle with it too. They can only sit back, knowing that nothing they can say will change the kids' minds.

Leo at age 15 is already bored of his teenage years and raising his eyes towards the glamour of adulthood. Liam at age 8 has a far too rosy picture of adolescence, and envies his brother for being the whole-body-manifestation of everything he now wants but knows he needs to wait to have.

And while Eleanor will be forever grateful Liam has inherited her vast capacity for patience and not his father's, she is also aware that that patience is beginning to wear thin.

Leo may be too focused on his feelings for Damien to see it, but a time will come when the brother he has always considered a kid will grow before his eyes, and he will be too surprised by the change to understand, or know how to communicate. She can only hope they'll find their little ways, as they once did before.

Sighing, she passes her eldest a coin, and takes a second in her own hand.

"Ready to make a wish?"

Leo nods. Eleanor smiles. She knows already what he's going to ask.

Eleanor tosses hers into the well, watching as it makes its rapid descent down.

Whatever else changes, just make sure these two never forget how much they need each other.

Eleanor returns to the palace with her son, smiling. Between the Wishing Well and the official gardens, there are bits and pieces of a plan taking shape, a plan for a garden maze. Around it, she can see her youngest playing tag with his friends: one of whom is the youngest of their gardener, a little boy Liam seems to have taken under his wing.

Leo and his mother stop by to watch the children. Both sigh, and both realize it's for the same reason.

Liam will be thrust into his adolescent years before he even knows it. But at least they both can enjoy this sight of him enjoying his childhood completely, wholeheartedly, for what it is. If only for today.

Recipes:

Shrimp Saganaki

Corfoit Bianco

Horiatiko Psomi

A/N2: For Sibling Day I really wanted to do a fic that explored the dynamics of a sibling pair with a significant age gap. There is some amount of awe at older people - esp older kids- at their age, as well as a little envy and a desire to become them.

Meanings:

Kyríos/Kyría: Greek for Mr and Mrs usually.

Thisavré mou - my treasure

Ouzo - Ouzo is an anise-flavored liquor produced from grape must (the remnants of wine-making). It can only be made in Greece and Cyprus

Feta cheese - A brined, white cheese with a soft and creamy texture, often made from sheep's milk.

Navroze - Festival for Parsi New Year, often celebrated with Iranians around the world as well as other Zoroastrian communities.

Babás/Mamá - Greek for Dad and Mum.

Astéri mou - my star

#king liam #kingliamappreciationweek #klaw #the royal romance #the royal heir #the royal finale #klaw day 4 #klaw day 4: childhood #lizzybeth1986 #content: fanfic #choices april monthly challenge

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aprilchallenge · 1 year

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A Different Fate... Part 2 - Ethan's POV

Book: Open Heart (Post Series)

Pairing: Ethan Ramsey x F!MC (Kaycee) feat. Tobias Carrick

Rating: Teen

Words: 2.7 k

Category: Short-Series/AU

Summary: A conversation with his friend, Tobias, has Ethan recalling a night from long ago and how it still lives in his heart to this very day.

A/N: @youlookappropriate ask and ye shall receive. lol I hope you enjoy this. Participating in @aprilchallenge Dinner, Laughter, Love

A Different Fate - Part 1

“Hey, Buddy!”

Tobias barged into Ethan’s office without so much as a knock, then plopped into the chair in front of his desk with a familiarity and ease that still made Ethan uncomfortable, even after all these years. Worse yet, he knew what was coming next. As anticipated, two Burberry loafers were now resting comfortably beside his inbox. On most days, Ethan would be barking at his accidental best friend. But today, the list of things on his mind was long, and his “buddy” being obnoxious didn’t even make the top ten.

“Did we get the results back for Spencer?” Ethan asked without turning from his laptop.

“Nope,” Tobias replied, refusing to look up from his notes himself.

Ethan slunk back into his chair with a sigh of frustration. Rubbing his eyes beneath his glasses before placing them on his desk. He officially had enough of today.

“Yeah,” Tobias acknowledged, tossing his notebook aside. “It’s been a long one. I think I’m through, too.”

“I won’t be able to rest until we get that kid’s results.”

“Same here,” Tobias replied. “But the lab said early tomorrow was their best estimate. I was just hoping for a miracle.”

A sad chuckle escaped Ethan as he stared out the window into the Boston twilight.

“Miracles… I gave up on believing in them long ago.”

Tobias had at least a half-dozen witty comebacks at the ready, but one look at Ethan’s forlorn face and he decided it wasn’t the time.

“You know, we should consider attending the AMA’s pediatric conference next month. I’ve been saying it would be helpful to expand our knowledge base there for years.”

“We get about six peds patients a year… do you think that’s the best way to utilize our limited time?”

“We might get more if we improve our pediatric outcomes,” Tobias shrugged. “Plus, I know I speak for both of us when I say failing at these cases messes with our minds way more than others.”

“You’re right on that,” Ethan agreed.

“So that settles it. I’ll make the arrangements.”

“No… hold off.”

“Why?”

Ethan tried to come up with a believable excuse but failed terribly. “Make arrangements for yourself if you like. But I’ll have to look at my schedule before I can commit.”

Tobias glanced at his phone, the conference’s homepage already on his screen… Join us for three days in New York City.

“You know…” Tobias grumbled. “She’s not listed as a speaker. Her specialty isn’t Peds, and in a city of eight million people, odds are, you won’t see her.”

Ethan sat up defiantly and placed his glasses back on the bridge of his nose. He returned to work without offering Tobias the dignity of a response. Undeterred, his friend continued.

“Of course, there are those who believe the two of you running into each other wouldn’t be the worst thing in the world… and I find myself firmly in that camp.”

“All right, stop!” Ethan barked. “It’s been eight years, Tobias. Eight years! When are you, Naveen, everyone… when are you going to stop?”

Tobias raised a brow as he collected his notebook from Ethan’s desk and stood up. He was already heading toward the door when he spoke again.

“I don’t know,” he yawned, turning around with a smile as he grabbed the knob. “I guess I’ll stop when you stop thinking about her. Until then…”

Ethan considered throwing something at him, but he was already gone. Just as well, his reaction would have told Tobias the one thing Ethan didn’t want to admit: He was right. They all were. No matter how much he tried to deny it, even to himself.

“When I stop thinking of her,” Ethan muttered to himself. “Good luck with that happening.”

Moving to the window, he stared down at the city below as dusk began to fall. The throngs of people below reflected the change in day. Fewer business suits, more dressy clothes. It was Friday night, after all, and that mattered to most people. A lump formed in his throat as he pulled down the shades, doing his best to block memories of a time when it mattered to him.

~~~~~

He’d be lying if he said he hadn’t been counting the hours all day. After adjusting the cufflinks on his shirt, he checked his reflection in the mirror one last time. Reservations at No. 9 Park, where he planned on sparing no expense. Followed by a stroll around Boston Common and The Public Gardens, places they had shared so many memories over the past three years, then capping off the night with drinks at Roxanne’s. The whole evening would take place in Beacon Hill, the very neighborhood Kaycee told him she dreamed of settling down in one day. It could be the perfect way to convince her to stay in Boston if that was what he intended to do.

A quick splash of the after-shave she gifted him on his birthday last year, and he was just about ready to go. He needed just one more thing… He remembered the day Kaycee helped him shop for the navy blue blazer he slipped into that night. It was unseasonably warm, so it wasn’t needed… but Kaycee loved it. She’d comment on how it brought out the blue in his eyes each time he wore it. While Ethan questioned that, there was no questioning the way her eyes raked over him whenever it was worn. So the blazer was joining him tonight, even if he didn’t consciously understand why.

Then she opened the door. He had thought this a hundred times before, and he was confident that if he had the privilege of seeing her every day for the rest of his life, he would repeat it daily… and mean it every time. But as of tonight, he had never seen her look more beautiful. Her long golden locks draped over her delicate shoulders, the way her pale blue dress hugged her every curve, the light that never stopped sparkling in her eyes, and that smile that melted his heart. All eyes were on her, and why wouldn’t they be? She was exquisite, inside and out. Radiating the glow of a woman with the world on a string. They weren’t only celebrating the end of her residency but the start of her star rising to heights they could only imagine. Kaycee MacClennan was about to take the world by storm, and Ethan couldn’t be more proud. Not only because of his role in helping her grow into the doctor she would become, but because she could celebrate with anyone tonight… but she chose him.

They dined, they talked, they danced, and she laughed… a melodic sound that was more beautiful than any symphony he could ever hear. A sound that would replay in his mind until the end of time. Kaycee. Her name had become like a prayer on his lips. Ethan Ramsey didn’t believe in many things outside the realm of science, but he believed in her with all his heart and soul.

“To you,” he beamed, champagne flute in hand. “To one of the most brilliant minds, coupled with the kindest heart I’ve seen in all my years. This is just the beginning for you, Kaycee, and I know I’ll be in awe of the places you go.”

“Ethan,” she blushed. “Stop. I owe so much of where I am to you. You’ve taught me so much, and I know I wouldn’t have made it through some of the trials of these past few years without you. So, this toast is as much for you as it is for me.”

“Nonsense!” He rebuffed.

“Hey! You said this is my night; if it is, I say we share this toast. OK?”

“Fine,” he surrendered with a laugh, “but only because you’re the boss tonight. Cheers!”

“Cheers!” she beamed.

Their crystal glasses met with an echoing ring, and Kaycee never looked happier. But, as the bubbly liquid began tickling Ethan’s lips, he felt his pride and happiness begin to morph into a far more familiar emotion… fear.

“Did MacClennan talk to you about NYU/Langone’s offer?”

“Who, me?” Ethan asked.

Tobias rolled his eyes dramatically. “No, the other 6’4” goon sitting across from me. Who am I talking to? Of course you!”

“Uh, no… not really. She mentioned it in passing, but we didn’t have a chance to discuss it. She told you about it?”

“Well, yeah. But chances are, I let her speak. Did you do the same?”

Ethan’s silence provided Tobias with the answer he needed.

“Look, this probably isn’t my business….”

“Then it’s best you stop.”

“I’d do that if I didn’t give a fuck about you… or Kaycee…, but I give several fucks about both of you. So that gruff little attitude you pull may make her scurry away, but you should know better than to think it’ll work on me. Ethan… talk to her.”

“About what?”

“About what comes next! You’re her mentor, aren’t you? And let’s stop pretending you’re not a whole lot more.”

“Kaycee’s brilliant… and she has a host of people to discuss things with… including you, apparently….”

“Cut the shit, Ethan. She can get a professional opinion from me, from Harper, from Naveen… but we can’t give her the answers she needs from you.”

“And what answers would that be?”

“Give her a reason to stay… of give yourself a reason to go… or tell her you’re not a factor… but stop leaving the poor woman in limbo.”

“She needs to make these choices based on what’s best for her. Nothing more.”

“And what if what’s best for her includes you?”

A snort escaped Ethan as he gathered his papers, his escape already underway. “That’s unlikely, Carrick. And even if it were true, she has to do what’s best for her professionally… personally comes and goes. No use basing her future on a dream.”

“For a man so smart….”

“Good night, Tobias.”

“Is everything OK?” Kaycee asked.

Ethan cleared his throat and excused himself. Confusion turned to panic as he rushed to the restroom for an escape. He leaned forward with the door locked behind him as anxiety gripped his chest. He loved her and knew she loved him… but love was fleeting; it always had been, and he saw no reason to believe it wouldn’t always be. He could uproot his life and follow her, it would be inconvenient if things didn’t work out, but he’d rebound. His career and wealth were established enough that he’d survive, but what about Kaycee?

The truth was, Ethan knew all about the offer at Langone, and it was beyond anything Edenbrook could match. She’d be an absolute fool not to take it. But he knew… one word from him, and she’d remain at Edenbrook in an instant… denying herself, denying the world of all she could offer. And for what? For him?

He looked in the mirror, beads of sweat forming on his forehead as his heart battled with his head. But what if she was the one? What if this was real and they were two halves that made a whole, two people who would always be more perfect together than apart? It went against every notion, every belief he held. Fairy tales didn’t exist. Ethan Ramsey knew that. There wasn’t a single couple in his life that he envied. After spending time with most, he’d return home, grateful for the solitude that had become his life. People hurt us, betrayed us… left us. Medicine didn’t do that; knowledge didn’t either. At the end of the day, he could take comfort in what he achieved… who he saved… because his focus was where it should be. Where Kaycee’s should be right now, where…. But he loved her.

He splashed cold water on his face and gathered himself. There was only one thing of which he was certain; this night was a celebration, one she richly deserved, and he wasn’t going to deprive her… or himself… of that. It wasn’t too much to ask for, one perfect night each could hold onto forever, no matter what story tomorrow told.

So he returned to the table, and Kaycee had no idea anything was amiss. The night proceeded just as he had planned until…

“I had a lovely time tonight,” she said as they approached her door. “You really didn’t need to go so overboard.”

“But I did. It was a celebration, one you richly deserved.”

“It was, wasn’t it… but….”

“But?”

“…it was more than a celebration; I’m just unclear. Was tonight so special because it marked a beginning or an end?”

His years in the medical field allowed him to retain a game face, even as panic welled inside. This was it. She wasn’t taking maybe as an answer anymore, and why should she? She had been patient with him, more than patient, and he’d be a fool to expect any more. She had a decision to make, but so did he, and had afforded him three years to decide… so why was he still so lost?

“Kaycee… you haven’t even made a decision about your next step yet… you should do that….”

“I have,” she interrupted, “I have. All I need to know is, have you made a decision about your future? Yours and mine.”

He took a step closer, lacing his fingers with hers as he gently stroked her cheek. He longed to see her blue eyes sparkle in the moonlight, but she had turned them away.

“Kaycee, you know how I feel about you, and you know how much you mean to me. But….”

He never got to finish. Everyone has a limit, and he could tell Kaycee had reached hers. If he had acted quickly, a grand gesture or confession could have saved them, but neither was to come.

“I can’t do this again. I’ve made my choice, and you’ll have my resignation on your desk tomorrow. I have to go where I’m wanted… where I’m needed, and that’s not here.”

He could hear his father, Naveen, Tobias… himself... screaming, “Tell her, just tell her how you feel!” But he had taught himself to silence these voices for over half his life, and if he was ever going to change, it wasn’t going to be tonight.

“I’ll always cherish tonight… I’ll cherish all of our memories over the past three years, Ethan. I just wish I hadn’t allowed myself to believe that - this - might be forever.”

“Forever can take on many meanings,” he frowned. “Sometimes forever doesn’t necessarily mean forever… not in this way, but that doesn’t mean we won’t….”

“I know…” she whispered. “I know. I… I should go inside. Good… goodbye, Ethan.”

Ethan Ramsey was a man of science and didn’t believe in many things outside of its realm. But a bright and beautiful young doctor had stepped into his life and changed all that. He believed in her. He believed in her with all his heart and soul, but he still didn’t believe in himself.

~~~~~

A single tear rolled down his cheek as he recalled that night. Eight years ago should feel like a long time, but the wound was as fresh as if it were only yesterday. The moment was as real as if it had happened just seconds before.

He looked down at his desk and shook his head with a chuckle. A flyer for the AMA convention was conspicuously left behind.

“You don’t stop, Tobias. Do you?”

Ethan pulled out his phone, his heart racing as he scrolled his contacts to find the one name he could never bring himself to delete. It had been eight years, and he had no idea if her number was still the same, but it was all the hope that he had.

Kaycee, it’s Ethan… in case you deleted my number long ago, and I wouldn’t blame you if you had. I know this is out of the blue, but I will be attending the AMA’s pediatric conference in New York with Tobias next month, and I was wondering if you’d like to meet for dinner or even coffee or drinks. It’s been entirely too long, Kaycee. What do you say?

He stared at the message for what felt like an eternity. His thumb toggled rapidly between “send” and “delete.” Then he fell back with a sigh. He had finally made his choice.

(sorry lol)

Permatags: @a-crepusculo @animesuck3r @annoyingmillenialnewbie @crazy-loca-blog @differenttyphoonwerewolf @doriopenheart @fayeswiftie @genevievemd @gryffindordaughterofathena @inlocusmads @jamespotterthefirst @jennieausten @kingliam2019 @liaromancewriter @lucy-268 @onikalover @openheartforeverinmyheart @potionsprefect @quixoticdreamer16 @rookiemartin @secretaryunpaid @socalwriterbee @sophxwithers @tessa-liam @trappedinfanfiction @jerzwriter-reblogs-asks @choicesficwriterscreations @openheartfanfics

More tags in reblog.

#ethan ramsey #ethan ramsey x mc #choices fanfic #open heart #open heart choices #choices open heart #ethan x kaycee #playchoices #choices april monthly challenge #choices april challenge

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aprilchallenge · 1 year

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A Capy Ending, Indeed

When I go a little crazy, I don’t like to do it half way…. I put the crazy on the porch, serve it sweet tea and call all the neighbors out to see. Life is more fun that way! 😂

So when a lovely conversation with my friend and fellow WTD and capybara lover @missameliep took a funny turn, I wrote A Capy Ending. But that wasn’t good enough… I had to get the lovely @/artbyainna involved in the crazy too. Not gonna lie, I am so glad I did! 😂

I think Eli may still be a little jealous of how much Zoe loves little Carlos the Capy, but at the end of the day, he loves anything that can make her this happy… even if it’s a capy. (I will stop.)

I simply love this, and love Ainna for brining it to life. Carlos Will ABSOLUTELY remain Olympus’s beloved pet!

@aprilchallenge | Flower crown, fun, pet, smile, hug

Perma: @a-crepusculo @animesuck3r @annoyingmillenialnewbie @crazy-loca-blog @doriopenheart @differenttyphoonwerewolf @fayeswiftie @genevievemd @gryffindordaughterofathena @inlocusmads @jamespotterthefirst @jennieausten @kingliam2019 @liaromancewriter @lucy-268 @onikalover @openheartforeverinmyheart @potionsprefect @quixoticdreamer16 @rookiemartin @secretaryunpaid @socalwriterbee @sophxwithers @tessa-liam @trappedinfanfiction @jerzwriter

WTD Only: @cariantha @kyra75 @lilyoffandoms @missameliep

And tagging @icecoffee90 and @storyofmychoices because they need to see it lol

#wake the dead #eli sipes #eli sipes x mc #playchoices #playchoices fanart #wake the dead choices #choices fan art #art by ainna #eli x zoe #carlos the capybara #choices april monthly challenge

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aprilchallenge · 1 year

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Day One (1/?)

Series Premise: What happened when Cassie met Sienna?

Book: Open Heart Characters: Cassie Valentine (F!MC), Sienna Trinh Rating/Category: Teen. Fluff. Words: 1,325

A/N: I had this idea for a mini series to explore Cassie and Sienna's friendship over the years, and how it changes when they become family. It might just be 3-4 parts. Haven't decided yet. Submitting to @aprilchallenge prompt "laughter" and to @choicesficwriterscreations You Go Girls event.

Cassie Valentine wanted the ground to swallow her up. Her first day as an internal medicine resident and probably her last. She almost killed her first patient. Thankfully, Jackie Varma heard her panicked call and jumped in to help Cassie’s incompetent self.

But feeling inept wasn’t even the worst part. No, that was reserved for the dressing down she received from her medical hero, Dr. Ethan Ramsey.

Every day had a silver lining. For Cassie, it was meeting Sienna Trinh, a fellow dolphin in a sea of sharks. The other intern interrupted Dr. Ramsey mid-tirade, bearding the lion in his den and giving Cassie a reprieve.

She hadn’t seen Sienna since but looked forward to remedying that during drinks at Donahue’s. It was finally the end of shift, and Cassie was mentally exhausted after her last interaction with Dr. Ramsey. The man infuriated her with his arrogant attitude.

“Don’t bother. I already have,” he said, handing her a printed-out prescription order for Annie’s antihistamines.

He hadn't even been apologetic when she expressed disbelief at his actions. Simply making it clear that he’d expected her to blow it.

Cassie supposed someone that brilliant could get away with doing whatever they pleased. One day, she would be a world-famous diagnostician, and then she’d take pleasure in showing Dr. Ramsey how wrong he’d been about her.

Still thinking about their run-in, Cassie absently changed into jean shorts and a green tie front crop top. She’d hesitated this morning, uncertain about her after-work plans, before stuffing the backup outfit into her bag at the last minute. Now she was glad for the option to let loose and look fabulous doing it!

Sienna wolf-whistled when Cassie returned to the atrium. “I hope you’re single because you are going to clean up tonight!”

Cassie smiled, letting the compliment smooth away her rough emotions after a brutal day.

“Can I pay you to follow me around and compliment me?”

“For a job that easy, I’ll do it for free,” Sienna grinned.

Cassie chuckled, feeling her doubts and bad mood dissipate entirely in the face of Sienna’s cheery optimism.

Jackie and Bryce led the way out of the atrium and down the street to Donahue’s. Cassie and Sienna fell back, walking side by side with their heads together, getting to know each other.

“How was your first day?” Cassie asked.

“Good! I still can’t believe I’m a doctor,” said Sienna. “At one point, I ducked into a supply closet just so I could stare at my ID badge without anyone looking.”

“I hid in a supply closet, too, for less fun reasons,” Cassie mused.

Sienna’s looked at her in sympathy. “I’m sorry, Cassie. Was it because of Dr. Ramsey or your patient?”

“Both, I guess. I just had a different vision of my first day as a doctor.” Cassie mentally shook her head to rid herself of the negativity creeping in. “But I know what you mean, Sienna. The first time my patient called me Dr. Valentine, I wanted to stand there and bask.”

“We’re doctors!” Sienna said excitedly, clapping her hands together.

“Baby doctors,” Cassie qualified, considering their intern status at the bottom of the medical hierarchy.

Sienna waved that way with a twist of her lips. “Patients don’t care about that. They’re at their lowest point and just want someone to listen, to help. This old lady I treated today….”

As Sienna talked about her patient, Cassie reflected on how Dr. Ramsey had said something similar outside Annie’s room.

“…maybe the most important trait a doctor can have. You listened. You took the time to get to know your patient. Their story, their hopes, their fears….”

As they stepped inside Donahue’s, Cassie’s eyes adjusted to the dim and dingy interior and her ears to loud music competing with the din of voices.

She envied the way Sienna charged confidently through groups of doctors and nurses, leading them to where the other interns had commandeered a booth. Her new friend was no pushover, as Cassie soon discovered when a frat boy type almost mowed them down near the bar.

Cassie didn’t see Sienna again until later in the night. She slid into the booth across from her friend, who furiously tapped on her phone. It was the first time she’d seen Sienna look less than serene.

“I’m already past my drink limit, but these cocktails are so good!” Cassie exclaimed, taking a sip of her fruity concoction. When Sienna continued to stare at her phone, Cassie nudged her knee under the table. “Everything okay?”

“Yes,” Sienna said, almost by rote, putting her phone face up on the table.

She smiled, but it didn’t reach her eyes. She glanced down briefly when her phone pinged twice but ignored it, finishing her colorful drink instead.

“What’s wrong, Sienna?” Cassie asked when a flurry of texts lit up Sienna’s phone, each making her frown. “I’m a good listener if you want to talk. I promise it will stay between us.”

Sienna sighed. “I have a boyfriend, Wayne. He lives across town, and I’m staying with him.” She stopped, and Cassie could see her gathering herself before continuing. “I don’t know the neighborhood well yet, and it’ll be late by the time I get home. I hoped he’d meet me at the T station, but he said he’ll be asleep.”

“That sucks,” Cassie said. “I could have sworn you were from around here. You just look so confident, like you know where everything is, where to go and what to do.”

Sienna giggled. “That’s so sweet of you. Wayne moved here a couple of years ago, so I visited for a weekend here and there during med school. But it’s my first time living here. What about you?”

“My grandparents live in Newport, Rhode Island. My brother and I often dropped by before or after a family visit. We did the Freedom Trail and other touristy stuff. But I suppose living somewhere, day to day, is a different experience.”

“It’s a much slower pace than New York,” Sienna commented, leaning in to be heard as someone turned up the jukebox volume. “That’ll take some getting used to.”

“Is that where you’re from?” Cassie said, curious because Sienna didn’t have the vibe she often associated with New Yorkers.

“New Orleans, or rather just east of that,” Sienna said. She pronounced it New Or-lins, a faint accent coming through. “I’ve lived in the north since college, though, first Princeton, then Columbia. So my accent is almost gone. Unless I go home, and then it’s like I never left.”

Cassie cackled as Sienna exaggerated her accent with the last sentence, long, liquid vowels and softened consonants with a laid-back rhythm.

She lifted her glass. “How about a toast?”

Sienna raised her glass eagerly, pouting when she saw it was empty. “Aww. I’m out.”

“Easily remedied,” Cassie said, pouring half of her drink into Sienna’s glass and making her friend laugh.

“You’re officially my day-one person!” Sienna said, raising her voice and slightly tipsy as she tried to clink Cassie’s glass only to miss.

Cassie changed directions, angling her glass to tap it against Sienna’s. “To two dolphins kicking butt in a sea of sharks!”

“Dolphin Power!”

They tittered as nearby heads turned at their bizarre toast. But Cassie and Sienna didn’t care, throwing back their drink and doubling over in laughter as they slammed the empty glasses on the table.

Much later, Cassie leaned her tired head against the window of the T train, not really paying attention to the tunnel lights rushing past outside. Her mind was on Sienna’s idea that the five of them look for a place together. She wouldn’t mind living with Sienna but wasn’t sure about the others yet.

Cassie had a feeling she found her Day One person in this city that would be her home for the next three years. And maybe a friend for life. They were just getting started.

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

Submissions: @openheartfanfics

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aprilchallenge · 1 year

Text

B(re)aking Bread

Book: The Royal Romance/The Royal Heir

Rating: PG for a few cuss words

Pairing: None. Kid!Liam with the head chefs of the palace, really (OCs, though Anais has been mentioned in canon)

Word Count: 2, 474 words

Summary: What's a little prince to do when he's bored and his parents are away? Perhaps head chefs Anais Martì and Hitoshi Luno have the answer. Mini fic in the Eleanor's Kitchen-verse.

Tagging @kingliamappreciationweek and @sazanes for Day 3: Foodie, @choicesficwriterscreations for FotW, @aprilchallenge for breakfast, and @choicesflashfics for the prompt: "That’s how the story goes.”

A/N: Liam is still around 7 in this fic, the same age as in Ch 3 of EK. This may be perhaps a couple months after that. It features two OCs, that I've given headcanons for here!

If you were to as Head Chef Anaïs Martì - the formidable mainstay of the Palace Kitchens - when the younger Prince of the Rys bloodline become obsessed with baking, she wouldn't be able to give you a precise, or concise, answer.

(It is quite another matter than Chef Anais finds herself incapable of giving concise answers for most things that don't involve instructions to her team of line cooks)

It may have been that time when he caught her snacking on the tiny meal she'd packed herself that day: pa amb tomàquet fragrant with olive oil and garlic. It was her eldest son's favourite, so she'd prepared some for breakfast and packed a little extra for herself to enjoy later.

Prince Liam had made a beeline for a slice of cake that she was sure he was going to keep safe for his brother - ever since that infamous incident where Prince Leo licked a duchess' wedding cake, the two have been sneaking slices for each other for no real reason...just a private joke between them. The little prince had just managed to extract one small, perfect slice of orange-cardamom olive oil cake, and turned when he heard a loud, satisfying crunch that Anais had failed to stifle.

He'd blinked twice, shuffled his feet around in a very obvious reluctance to leave her kitchen, and seemed to angle his ear as if to hear it again. Crunch! she sunk her teeth in a bit slower and a little harder this time, acknowledging the unsaid need of her tiny audience of one. It took a while before the little boy would leave, cake almost forgotten.

But perhaps what set the seal on this obsession was another secret trip of his to the kitchen in the early morning, three weeks later, this time for a sample of his mother's scrumptious and utterly divine-smelling rose petal jam. Once found, he looked around the kitchen, his eyes hopeful.

"Bon dia, Your Highness," she told him quietly, watching as one of her young chefs placed in a dough that had been resting for twelve hours in the oven, "if it does not trouble you to wait an hour, we're getting this bread ready for your breakfast."

It was a thing she wouldn't dare to say to young Leo, heir to the throne, who was a sweet-natured if slightly mischievous boy but had a vile temper when hungry.

His younger brother didn't mask his disappointment, but still waited quietly and patiently for the bread. A rustic preparation - a Greek village bread called horiatiko psomi - but it had been a central part of the royal diet for at least three generations now.

It was only midway through the baking that Anais noticed the sharp intake of breath as he watched the dim outline of the loaves rising from inside the oven, looking much like her youngest at age 2. The Prince is perhaps five years older than that right now.

But it was nothing compared to the sight of the child when the bread came out of the oven. His eyes went round and he took several deep breaths, allowing himself to savour the aroma of freshly-baked bread. Unaware of his own movements, Prince Liam seemed to inch more towards the loaves as if in a trance. Everyone has a memory of their first time registering with this aroma - Anais' was in her mother's kitchen, playing the remaining flour in her mother's kitchen. From the look in his eyes, Prince Liam's was just at that very moment.

It was then - and only then - that it dawned on Anais just how insular palace life could be for the children that grew up there. To have spent half your childhood years never smelling just-baked bread in a kitchen!!

"This bread." The boy said, pointing to a loaf baked a perfect golden-brown, his eyes alight. "I want to make it. May I please?"

His face fell as he registered the Head Chef's hesitance. King Constantine may not be as formidable as his late mother yet (though heaven knows the man does try), but he did manage to decently intimidate most of the staff.

And although these kitchens were her turf, she wasn't entirely sure if granting the little prince's request would mean dunking herself and her entire team into murky waters.

She sighed as the boy left, her insides twisting oddly at the sight of his crestfallen face. Were it up to her she would have absolutely planned something.

Three days later, both his wish and hers seemed to be granted. She was handed a note in the elegant, loopy handwriting of the Queen.

Leave handling the King to me.

She smirked. She knew instantly what the Queen was asking her to do.

In the two months that Prince Liam and Head Chef Anais take to teach him breadmaking, she learns two things.

One, that of the two boys - he is the one with the interest to cook. He may not have a lot of his mother's personal flair, but his fascination with the way ingredients transform and blend when introduced to heat is almost scientific. The Crown Prince, on the other hand, simply doesn't have the patience.

Two, when the boy eats, he eats with all his senses. Sight, smell, sound, touch, taste. He loves the process of pounding and kneading the dough, feeling its stretch beneath his fingers, as much as he adores tearing a baked loaf apart or the crackle of its crunch when he sinks his teeth into it.

And the aroma! He still struggles to tell her what he loves about it, but on a particularly good day he tells her it feels like being wrapped in a warm fleece blanket against the freezing winter.

Then he shuffles his feet and looks at her, sheepishly grinning. "Olivia would kill me if she heard me say that," he says, nodding in the direction of the bedchambers presently occupied by the little heir to the Duchy of Lythikos.

Today there is an extra springiness to his step, and the entire kitchen staff seems to know why. She can bet that damn Hitoshi was behind the secret smiles and adoring whispers. He has probably spread the the young Prince's breadmaking obsession and is probably already telling all-and-sundry what he might teach him if the boy asks. He's the pastry chef; she can tell without even talking to him yet, that he's been jumping at the bit to teach the little Prince his favourite sweet bun recipe.

Knowing that Chef Anais hailed from a part of the Foundaries that had ties to Mallorca, Prince Liam made her promise that if he did extremely well in his baking in less than three months, she would show him how to bake a bread that he knew was close to her heart: Llonguet. He'd found out about it from a rare visit one of her children took to her work quarters in the palace.

She can't resist a smile herself. Of course she will grant Prince Liam's wish today. Not just because he is an adorable little charmer of a child with a smile that could melt icicles. But because he has more than earned it. Because she hasn't seen a child as in love with the art of baking as this one, not even among her own children.

Teaching him has been an absolute dream, and thus far it seems - to Anais - like the Queen has kept her word. For there has been no incident that indicated the King catching wind of his second son taking lessons from palace cooks yet (Palace cook! Indeed!, bristles the part of Anais that never forgets that she has led teams at Michelin star restaurants and won an honorary doctorate from Cordonia's best culinary institute for her services to the food industry here).

Just today he was looking up at her and giggling as they stretched the dough then slammed it down on the flour-dusted counter with a thwack!, making similar sounds each time they repeated the action. It is a deceptively simple dough of just five ingredients - flour, salt, water, yeast and the best, grassiest olive oil you could find in Cordonia - but the secret to a truly great one is in the ingredients and the handling. We need it crusty on the outside but soft as pillows inside, she has told him - and that involves precise work and good timing. She has added in some sugar for the yeast to feed on, in the few hours that they've waited for the dough to get ready.

When he returns from his lessons to check on the dough, it's already ready to go into the oven. While they wait for the bread to rise, Anais tells him about the many, many shops that dot the city of Palma - the coast her ancestors came from - and how she wished one day she could go back just to visit every existing bakery that had llonguet on the menu.

(more than a decade later, and three years after the Ruta del Llonguet is finally introduced in her country of origin, King Liam will send his prized head chef to Mallorca to sample the thing she has associated most with home)

"It will come out with a long crack in the middle," Anais tells him, "That's how you know it's a perfect llonguet. You cut it open straight down that crack and make your sandwich."

For Prince Liam they decide to make it with artichoke-olive hummus and chicken, spiced with a bit of paprika and cumon, and for Prince Leo - who loves his seafood - they fill it with sardines and trampó salad.

She smiles as the two boys tuck in to what always felt like a simple recipe that made her feel at home...and what must - for reasons she is grateful she will never fully understand - be luxuries to them.

Liam splits one of the prepared loaves open with his hands, watching in pure satisfaction how the bread tears exactly on the crack Chef Anais had promised would appear, the sound the bread makes as it crackles when opened and the delicate pull of the bread's soft insides.

His brother may bask in the luxury of feasting without needing to make the food he is enjoying, but Liam knows that being there through this entire process - from seemingly-discordant ingredients, to unified dough, to a loaf that barely resembles any of the things used to make it but that meshes them all into this delicious little miracle.

He wipes a bit of hummus off the corner of his mouth, then savours the satisfying crunch of the top half of the bread ringing in his ears as he takes another bite, knowing that the inside of the bread will melt like butter on his tongue.

"What! A superhero who is weak? A superhero that lets people take bites off of his face??"

The sound of Chef Hitoshi Luno's laughter is rich, warm and soothing, much like the Ethiopian mocha he favours drinking. "Indeed. That's how the story goes."

"The story of Anpanman," Liam murmurs bemused. Just two hours ago, he'd watched the quiet, shy pastry chef slam the dough of the anpan bun with a force that reminded Liam all too clearly of Chef Anais. Like hers, his skin too was stretched tight in sharp relief against the bones of his knuckles as he pulled at the dough, his lips pursed in concentration.

They're the last two people you would think to find any similarities in, but their joy in this one activity is definitely one of them.

The story of this bread itself, Hitoshi told him two weeks ago, was one of samurais who found themselves without jobs after a major restoration swept the country under Emperor Meiji in Japan. One of them opened a bakery and - because bread was often rejected by ordinary people for being too sour - flavoured breads with sweet red-bean-paste and salted cherry blossoms on top.

(If there is a lesson here that Hitoshi unknowingly imparts, a lesson about how the qualities of a warrior and the qualities of a creative man can co-exist - how one needn't be better than the other - or how, like Anpanman, you didn't need to be raring for physical fights to be heroic, it is a lesson Liam will only remember when he's much, much older)

The dough has doubled in size now. A junior chef informs Chef Hitoshi that his anko is done - the red beans and sugar boiled and thickened to a chunky paste, ready to be used for filling. It's a fetching shade of what Mum would call wine-red.

Together, they press then roll the dough into a large ball, which Chef Hitoshi cuts with a dough shaper into smaller ones. They make smaller spheres out of the anko filling placing it in the middle of flattened dough before pulling all its ends together like a little parcel. Before proofing the dough, Chef Hitoshi did what he called the "windowpane" test - stretching the dough between his thumb and fingers to see how translucent it was. Liam loved how you could almost see his skin through the thin film of the dough. Almost like the fabric of one of Mum's tulle dresses.

When it emerges from the oven, golden-brown and gleaming from the eggwash, a scattering of toasted sesame seeds on top, Liam's mouth waters instantly. And the sweet more than lives up to its promise. The bread is soft and buttery and its delicacy coats his palate, and the filling reminds him of a dessert of sweet potatoes gifted to his mother by the Queen of Monterisso - not too sweet but not savoury either. Carrying a plate back to his mother, they both savour in the sweetness of the beans, the chunky texture of the anko paste providing his tongue new delights with each bite.

In these past three months learning breadmaking from the masters, Liam has learned two things.

One is that he absolutely cannot live without the aroma of freshly-baked bread.

The other...is that everywhere you go, every table you sit at - Cordonian, Japanese, Spanish or French - there is bread to eat. Bread to break. Bread to share with people and make them happy.

"What's a thing that can make King Liam cuss like a Greek sailor?" Queen Esther asks her friends in the kitchen one day, fulfilling all her pregnancy cravings for baklava.

Before any of them can open their mouths, Chef Anais answers, smirking. "Show him a badly done baking tutorial." Chef Histoshi looks up from a intricately-latticed berry pie to pipe up: "He'll go nuts."

Hana has just the thing. A baking video for 2-ingredient Greek Yoghurt Bread with only flour and yoghurt, that somehow magically rises into beautiful, golden fullness in the oven.

Not even a second passes before they hear a frustrated yell.

"Where's the fucking yeast!!!"

A barrage of Greek swear words follow, presumably at the sight of yeastless bread rising. Maláka, gamóto and ái sto diáolo among them.

"Oh shit," Drake says as the video is about to end, "He just said áde gamísou. I've never heard him say that."

"I'd...better go check on check on him," Esther says, not looking sorry at all.

Recipes:

Llonguet (there is no actual recipe I found for the bread, but I did find articles that spoke about it)

Anpan/Japanese red bean bun

A/N2: The events of this fic will take place roughly a year before the next chapter of Eleanor's Kitchen.

Meanings:

pa amb tomàquet - a toasted bread, that is rubbed with garlic while it’s still warm, and then topped with fresh grated tomatoes, and a sprinkle of olive oil and flaky salt. It is a popular Catalan recipe.

Bon dia - Catalan greeting that means "good day"

Horiatiko Psomi - A Greek village-style bread that is hearty and with a crispy crust, perfect for serving with soups, stews, and salads. It gets its gorgeous yellow color from the addition of fine semolina, a flour normally used to make pasta.

Llonguet - Soft and tasty, llonguet is a bread native to Palma de Mallorca, stuffed with savoury flavours like sobrasada (a local red sausage) or Mallorcan cheese. Locals enjoy them for breakfast, lunch or merienda (a light meal).

Ruta del Llonguet - Every Wednesday from September to November, some Palma's best bakeries offer a llonguet sandwich with a drink for only €3. The project aims at promoting the llonguet among locals and visitors, a traditional type of bread that has been losing popularity in the last few years. Almost 40 bakeries and patisseries around the city participate.

Anpan - Anpan is a soft round Japanese bread that has azuki bean paste filling. Learn more about the origins of anpan here!

Anpanman - A Japanese superhero based on the concept of the bread. Find out more about him here.

Maláka - Jerk/asshole

Gamóto - Oh shit/oh fuck/Dammit!!

Ái sto diáolo - Go to hell

Áde gamísou - Fuck you

I couldn't find the exact video Liam is cussing at on YouTube, so I'll attach the source I got it from: Debunking Fake Cooking Videos 2020 from Ann Reardon's channel How to Cook That. The exact reference can be found around 11.03 minutes into the video.

Breads featured in this fic:

pa amb tomàquet

Horiatiko Psomi

Llonguet

Anpan (red bean)

#king liam #kingliamappreciationweek #klaw #the royal romance #the royal heir #the royal finale #klaw day 3 #klaw day 3: foodie #lizzybeth1986 #content: fanfic #choices april monthly challenge

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