#AND SPLITTING UP THE MAIN THREE CHARACTERS?? if you want your series to succeed. NEVER split up the

[saviourkingslut]

finally finished s2 of the alienist... uhmm why was this season abt everyone BUT the alienist. hello. daniel brühl turn on your location i just want to talk

[i-am-a-closet-fanfic-fiend]

Sexiled (Part 12/23) ~ Steve Rogers x Reader College!AU

A/N: HI lovelies! Happy weekend! So I’m not really sure what project I’m going to focus on next, but so far this is the one whose muse is strongest so here we are. I hope you enjoy. 

Summary: Halloween shenanigans begin 

Characters/Pairings: Steve x Reader, Bucky, Thor, whole gang is mentioned 

Rating: T 

Warnings: Language, underage drinking 

Word Count: 1651 

Series Masterlist | Main Masterlist

“So am I really the only one who figured it out so far?” Bucky asked as you played Mario Kart on Friday afternoon.

“Yep,” you mumbled as you blue shelled him and flew past him to win.

“You suck.”

“Don’t be a sore loser.”

He blew a raspberry at you in response.

“So what are you and Steve dressing up as for the party tonight?” he asked as you started another game.

“Wonder Woman and Superman. What are you going as?”

“I’m not going.” He tried to sound nonchalant but didn’t succeed.  

“What? Why not?” you asked, pausing the game.

“Well, Dot’s probably going to be there.”

“You could still come hang out with us. I mean Thor’s your friend, not hers so she may not go.”

“When have you ever known Dot to pass up free alcohol?”

Frowning you were forced to concede the point.

“Besides, I don’t even have a costume. I was supposed to do a couple’s thing with her.”  

“Well, if that’s the only thing keeping you from going tonight. Then I’ve got just the thing. Wait here.”

You were immediately up on your feet.

“Where are you going, doll?”

“I’ll be right back.”

When you returned Steve had gotten back from lab. You grinned and handed the box to Bucky and greeted Steve with a kiss.

“Hi, handsome.”

“Hey, sweetness,” he grinned down at you as you settled your arms around his waist.

“When did you get this, doll?” Bucky asked as he looked at the Batman costume.

“Steve wasn’t sure if he wanted to be Batman or Superman so I bought both a few weeks ago. Never got around to returning it,” you shrugged. “You don’t have to come with us, but if your only reason not to was that you didn’t have a costume. Problem solved.”

“Thank you, doll. I’ll think about it.”

“That’s all I ask.”

You squeezed his shoulder and glanced at the time.

“I’m going to grab a shower before the bathroom gets overrun. I’ll see you later.”

“See you later, sweetness,” Steve gave you lingering kiss which had Bucky fake gagging.

“Shush.”

“Quiet’s not my style, doll.” He winked at you.  “I’ll see you tonight.”

You rolled your eyes but grinned at the positive response.

“Good.”

 You were pleasantly surprised by how well the costume fit, considering it only cost thirty bucks. You were just fixing the tiara when there was a knock on the door.

“One second,” you mumbled through a mouthful of bobby pins.

When the head piece was secure, you fastened on the bracers and smiled at your reflection before pulling open the door.

“Wow,” Steve stared at you slack-jawed for a moment.

“Hey, Superman,” you flirted.  

“Hey yourself. You look great, sweetness.”

He glanced at the other side of your room and you smirked, grabbing at the S on his chest and tugging him into the room.

“Nat’s already downstairs with Clint,” you explained kissing him firmly as the door swung shut behind him.

“Do we have to go?” Steve whined when you finally broke apart after your make out session. You’d somehow ended up on the bed in his lap. “I’d much rather stay here and keep doing that.”  

“Yes, we have to go. We promised since we skipped last week,” you reminded him as you climbed out of his lap and started fixing your hair. “Sam will say I stole you again if we don’t go.”

“Well, he’s. Never mind,” Steve trailed off, ears turning pink.

“What?”

“No. It’s nothing. I was going to make a dumb joke.”

He seemed to be getting redder by the second and now you had to know what he was thinking.

“Please, tell me,” you pleaded, pouting at him. You reached for his hand as you sat next to him.  

He only lasted two seconds before growling under his breath.

“You’re dangerous. You know that right?”

“I’m aware. But I also just want to know what you were gonna say.”

Sighing, he leaned back staring at the ceiling.

“I was going to say Sam was half right, because you had stolen my heart.” You were about to call him on his corny joke when his eyes snapped to yours and he continued speaking. “But you didn’t, because I gave it to you. Without hesitation.”

You gnawed on your bottom lip in an attempt not to cry, but it didn’t work and a few tears slipped out.

“I didn’t mean to upset you, sweetness.”

“You didn’t. That was adorable and sweet and everything a girl wants to hear. Jerk,” you grumbled.

He chuckled and reached out to wipe the tears away.

“You have my heart too, you know. Free and clear.”

“I love you.”

“I love you too. Now stop making me cry, so I can redo my make up.”

“Yes, ma’am.” He snapped a salute. “But if you’re going to redo your make up anyways…”

He pulled you in for a searing kiss that took nearly all your lipstick off.

 Fifteen minutes later you were finally ready to go. You knew your friends would be fuming, but you couldn’t wipe the stupid grin off your face. You grabbed your phone and purse, checking for your ID. You debated wearing a jacket but decided that for one night you’d let aesthetics win out, so you grabbed Steve’s hand and pulled him from the room.

“Good timing. Buck says he’s about to come up here and drag us out.”

“Did Bucky decide to go after all?” you asked as you locked your door.

“Yep, he’s downstairs with the others. And he loves the costume. But you know funny thing I don’t remember considering being Batman,” Steve commented once you were down the hall.

“Because you didn’t.”

“You ordered that after they broke up last week, didn’t you?”

“Yup. Gotta love free two day shipping,” you smirked. “You didn’t tell Bucky, did you?”

“Of course not.”

“I know we’re all going as a group. But I thought he might be more comfortable going with us as a trio.”

“It was a great idea, sweetness. And my lips are sealed.” He wrapped his arm around your shoulders and kissed the top of your head. “You’re the best.”

 The group was chattering excitedly when you reached the lounge. There was a flurry of greetings and compliments when you and Steve entered.

“Superhero suits you, doll,” Bucky whispered as he sidled up beside you.  

“Thanks, Bucks-a-billion. It suits you too,” you grinned up at him.  “Come here.” You pulled up the camera on your phone and took a quick selfie both of you beaming.

“Good idea, y/n. We need a couple of pictures!” Wanda insisted when she saw you and Bucky.

A couple pictures somehow turned into a full blown photo shoot, and you finally got out of the dorm thirty minutes later. How could you resist when you’d all picked staples from your childhood?

Nat and Clint were a spot on Kim and Ron. Sam and Riley were Buzz and Woody. Wanda and Pietro had decided to go as Raggedy Ann and Andy. And Tony, Rhodey, and Bruce were dressed as the red, blue, and green power rangers.

  “HEY!” Thor boomed when he opened the door. “Come on in!”

You all piled into the house.

“Drinks are in the kitchen. Dance floor is through there.”

The group split up, Thor lingering by you, Steve, and Bucky.

“You look amazing as always, y/n.”

“Thank you,” you giggled.

“Let’s get you all drinks and get this party started. Right this way.”

Steve held your hand as you followed Thor towards the kitchen, and you in turn tugged Bucky with you by the elbow. He offered you a wry smile when he figured out you weren’t going to let him sulk for the entire night.

Thor handed you each a beer and chatted for a few minutes he was pulled away, but not before making all of you promise to play flip cup later on.

You were the first of the three to spot Dot sauntering around the party with Brock on her arm. You almost gagged at the sight of the both of them. Bucky was momentarily distracted, talking to Sam and Riley so you pulled Steve away to point her out.

“Damn it. I was really hoping that she wouldn’t show.”

“Me too. But also ew. Please tell me Bucky would not have worn that costume.”

“I can’t but mainly because I am not thinking about my best friend in an outfit like that.”

Steve visibly shuddered at the thought. Brock was parading around in what could only be described as spandex booty short orange overalls that were supposed to resemble a prison uniform and she was wearing a slutty cop costume.

“They deserve each other.”

“Definitely.”

“At least it doesn’t seem like she’s looking for him,” you noted.

“And the cowl covers his face. Maybe she won’t recognize him.”

“With that jawline?” you snarked.

Steve arched an eyebrow at you before chuckling and shaking his head when you shrugged, refusing to take back the comment.

“Well let’s hope she’s not in the mood to start shit then.”

“That we can do.”

You both sighed for a moment before Steve shook his head in a mental reset motion.

“Come on. We’re here to have fun. Buck will leave if he thinks we’re worried about him.”

“You’re right. Dance with me?” you grinned up at him.

“Happy to, sweetness.”  

He led you into the next room where people were dancing, happy for the opportunity to hold you close. You loved the way his hands felt on your hips as the two of you grinded to the music.

It didn’t take long for your friends to find you and start shooting the both of you meaningful looks. You ignored them and focused on the happiness coursing through you. Tonight was going to be a good night.

A/n: Yeah so some partying for the gang. I hope you enjoyed! More partying to come and more for this story. 

xoxo

Naynay

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[cathygeha]

REVIEW:

This Earl of Mine by Kate Bateman

Bow Street Bachelors #1

Reading the book description I was taken back to reading a book my father shared with me – a book in which a woman in need of a husband also went to a prison to find a condemned man to marry. The two books diverged from there though neither husband actually bit the dust by the end of the book they starred in. Both men were definitely more than the bride expected and both were fallen in love with by their wives before the end of the stories.

In this book we have wealthy Georgiana “Georgie” Caversteed being hounded by despicable cousin Josiah. He wants her money and isn’t planning to take no for an answer. Thus, the reason for the marriage of convenience. Georgie has plenty of money but no desire to wed the men in the ton that she has met already. There was a frisson of interest when Georgie met Benedict “Ben” Wylde but she realized that it was NOT real since...he was a dirty prisoner...until she experienced the same feeling when she ran into Benedict at a ball the next time.

This book had the two falling for one another slowly while they also spent time trying to solve a case Benedict and his friends were working on for Bow Street. There is a side story of Georgie’s sister Juliet and Simeon and the lead into the idea that either Seb or Alex, Benedict’s friends, will get their stories in books to come. The book did not stand out to me as something new or different but it was an enjoyable way to spend the day.

Did I enjoy this book? Yes

Would I read more in the series? Yes

Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Paperbacks for the ARC – This is my honest review.

3-4 Stars

Book-buy link: https://us.macmillan.com/books/9781250305961

SUMMARY:

Introducing the Bow Street Bachelors—men who work undercover for London’s first official police force—and the women they serve to protect. . .and wed?

Shipping heiress Georgiana Caversteed is done with men who covet her purse more than her person. Even worse than the ton’s lecherous fortune hunters, however, is the cruel cousin determined to force Georgie into marriage. If only she could find a way to be . . . widowed? Georgie hatches a madcap scheme to wed a condemned criminal before he’s set to be executed. All she has to do is find an eligible bachelor in prison to marry her, and she’ll be free. What could possibly go wrong?

Benedict William Henry Wylde, scapegrace second son of the late Earl of Morcott and well-known rake, is in Newgate prison undercover, working for Bow Street. Georgie doesn’t realize who he is when she marries him—and she most certainly never expects to bump into her very-much-alive, and very handsome, husband of convenience at a society gathering weeks later. Soon Wylde finds himself courting his own wife, hoping to win her heart since he already has her hand. But how can this seductive rogue convince brazen, beautiful Georgie that he wants to be together…until actual death do they part?

EXCERPT:

Chapter 1.

London, March 1816.

There were worse places to find a husband than Newgate Prison.

Of course there were.

It was just that, at present, Georgie couldn’t think of any.

“Georgiana Caversteed, this is a terrible idea.” Georgie frowned at her burly companion, Pieter Smit,

as the nondescript carriage he’d summoned to convey them to London’s most notorious jail rocked to a halt on the cobbled street. The salt-weathered Dutchman always used her full name whenever he disapproved of some- thing she was doing. Which was often.

“Your father would turn in his watery grave if he knew what you were about.”

That was undoubtedly true. Until three days ago, en- listing a husband from amongst the ranks of London’s most dangerous criminals had not featured prominently on her list of life goals. But desperate times called for des- perate measures. Or, in this case, for a desperate felon about to be hanged. A felon she would marry before the night was through.

Georgie peered out into the rain-drizzled street, then up, up the near-windowless walls. They rose into the mist, five stories high, a vast expanse of brickwork, bleak and unpromising. A church bell tolled somewhere in the darkness, a forlorn clang like a death knell. Her stomach knotted with a grim sense of foreboding.

Was she really going to go through with this? It had seemed a good plan, in the safety of Grosvenor Square. The perfect way to thwart Cousin Josiah once and for all. She stepped from the carriage, ducked her head against the rain, and followed Pieter under a vast arched gate. Her heart hammered at the audacity of what she planned. They’d taken the same route as condemned prisoners on the way to Tyburn tree, only in reverse. West to east, from the rarefied social strata of Mayfair through gradu- ally rougher and bleaker neighborhoods, Holborn and St. Giles, to this miserable place where the dregs of humanity had been incarcerated. Georgie felt as if she were nearing her own execution.

She shook off the pervasive aura of doom and straight- ened her spine. This was her choice. However unpalat- able the next few minutes might be, the alternative was far worse. Better a temporary marriage to a murderous, unwashed criminal than a lifetime of misery with Josiah. They crossed the deserted outer courtyard, and Georgie cleared her throat, trying not to inhale the foul-smelling air that seeped from the very pores of the building. “You have it all arranged? They are expecting us?”

Pieter nodded. “Aye. I’ve greased the wheels with yer blunt, my girl. The proctor and the ordinary are both bent as copper shillings. Used to having their palms greased, those two, the greedy bastards.”

Her father’s right-hand man had never minced words

in front of her, and Georgie appreciated his bluntness. So few people in the ton ever said what they really meant. Pieter’s honesty was refreshing. He’d been her father’s man for twenty years before she’d even been born. A case of mumps had prevented him from accompanying Wil- liam Caversteed on his last, fateful voyage, and Georgie had often thought that if Pieter had been with her father, maybe he’d still be alive. Little things like squalls, ship- wrecks, and attacks from Barbary pirates would be mere inconveniences to a man like Pieter Smit.

In the five years since Papa’s death, Pieter’s steadfast loyalty had been dedicated to William’s daughters, and Georgie loved the gruff, hulking manservant like a second father. He would see her through this madcap scheme— even if he disapproved.

She tugged the hood of her cloak down to stave off the drizzle. This place was filled with murderers, highway- men, forgers, and thieves. Poor wretches slated to die, or those “lucky” few whose sentences had been commuted to transportation. Yet in her own way, she was equally desperate.

“You are sure that this man is to be hanged tomorrow?” Pieter nodded grimly as he rapped on a wooden door.

“I am. A low sort he is, by all accounts.”

She shouldn’t ask, didn’t want to know too much about the man whose name she was purchasing. A man whose death would spell her own freedom. She would be wed and widowed within twenty-four hours.

From This Earl of Mine by Kate Bateman. Copyright © 2019 by the author and reprinted by permission of St. Martin’s Publishing Group.

Author Bio:

Kate Bateman, (also writing as K. C. Bateman), is the #1 bestselling author of historical romances, including her RITA® nominated Renaissance romp, The Devil To Pay, and the novels in the Secrets & Spies series To Steal a Heart, A Raven’s Heart, and A Counterfeit Heart. When not writing novels that feature feisty, intelligent heroines and sexy, snarky heroes you want to both strangle and kiss, Kate works as a fine art appraiser and on-screen antiques expert for several popular TV shows in the UK. She splits her time between Illinois and her native England. Follow her on Twitter to learn more.

This Earl of Mine Blog Tour Q&A

Q: What inspired you to write This Earl of Mine?

A: Most of my books are inspired by real historical events, but for the adventure subplot in This Earl of Mine I was looking up something completely different, fell down a research rabbit hole, and stumbled upon an outlandish plot to rescue Napoleon from exile on Saint Helena using a submarine! I’d had no idea submersibles were even in use in the Regency, but a little digging soon revealed a tale far stranger than fiction—with plenty of smugglers, spies, and underhand skullduggery thrown in. Of course, then my writer brain couldn’t help but wonder WHAT IF . . .?

What if someone loyal to Napoleon stole the plans for the submarine from the Admiralty? And what if London’s fledgling police force, The Bow Street Runners, were tasked with finding the vessel and foiling the scheme?

The main plot, of course, is the romantic one between shipping heiress Georgie Caversteed and Bow Street Runner Benedict Wylde. They try to piece together the clues, while trying to ignore the inconvenient attraction that sparks between them. (Spoiler alert: they succeed at the former, and fail miserably at the latter!)

Q: Is there one thing you would like readers to take away from this story?

A: You mean apart from a new appreciation of early19th century submarine development?! Why, yes! I firmly believe in happy-ever-afters for everyone, and while none of my characters may be perfect, they’re certainly perfect for each other. A successful romance should be a true partnership between equals, with love, respect, humor, and kindness. I hope that’s what readers see develop between Georgie and Benedict.

Q: Where do you go or what resources do you use to make sure your novels are historically correct? 

A: I have quite a bit of overall historical knowledge from my life as an antiques appraiser and auctioneer; I’ve handled plenty of Regency-era artifacts, like scent bottles, reticules, clothes, letters, furniture etc. And I’ve visited (and lived in) plenty of historic houses when I lived in England. So I have a pretty good idea what that world is like when I’m describing it. I do lots of random research online too, though. I suspect I’m on a secret CIA watchlist because of my weird internet browsing history, which currently includes such gems as: ‘does Prussic acid smell like almonds?’ ‘18th century jewel heists,’ and ‘chloroform, first use.’

Q: Did you learn anything surprising while researching for this novel?

A: Apart from the crazy submarine plot, I found out what the chapel of Newgate prison looked like in 1816, discovered more about the founding of London’s first true police force, the Bow Street Runners, and found a new book boyfriend in the wonderfully roguish Benedict Wylde!

Q: Describe the hero and heroine of This Earl of Mine in three words each.

A: Georgie is resourceful, determined, and curious. Benedict is amusing, loyal and scoundrelly!

Q: What was the hardest scene to write in This Earl of Mine? Your favorite?

A: My favorite scene was the sexy banter between Benedict and Georgie as they listen to the terrible poetry written by Juliet’s fiancé. Almost every sentence is a double entendre, and Benedict is shameless in trying to say something utterly inappropriate to make Georgie laugh, and I just giggle every time I think of it. I hope readers can feel the ridiculously flirtatious, slow-burn teasing in that scene. Yum!

The hardest was the sexy scene inside the tiny submarine. It’s a confined space, and I had to think about the technicalities of which body part was where, and whether they had enough space to do the scandalous things I wanted them to do. (Of course they did!)

Q: Why do you write historical romance? 

A: Because it can be total escapism. A reader can travel back in time to a different world and encounter situations that just don’t happen today. As a writer I like the challenge presented by the historical parameters; lots of great conflicts arise because of social, cultural, or economic factors. Plus, there are so many real historical adventures out there just waiting to be discovered. . .

Q: Is there another particular author that inspires you or that you enjoy reading? 

A: SO MANY AUTHORS! Laura Kinsale, Connie Brockway (As you Desire is a favorite), Loretta Chase, Judith McNaught, Anne Stuart, Joanna Bourne, Tessa Dare, Eloisa James, Suzan Elizabeth Philips, Julie Garwood, Galen Foley, Kerrigan Byrne, Julia Quinn, Beverly Jenkins, Alyssa Cole, Joanna Shupe, Johanna Lindsey, J.R Ward, Janet Evanovich, Georgette Heyer, Mary Renault, Jane Austen, E.M Forster, Leo Tolstoy, P.G. Wodehouse, Antoine de Saint Exupery, Jean M. Auel, Gabriel Garcia Marquez,  . . . Ok. I’ll stop now. But there are plenty more.

Q: What’s next for the Bow Street Bachelors?

A: Two more books! Those bad boys Alex Harland and Sebastien Wolff each get their own adventure and I can’t wait for everyone to read them! Alex meets his match in half-French jewel thief Emmy Danvers –AKA The Nightjar­– in To Catch an Earl, (Bow Street Bachelors #2). And Seb gets a sexy cat-and-mouse game of his own when he’s forced to protect the infuriating Anya Denisova – a feisty Russian Princess who’s faked her own death in The Princess and The Rogue, (Bow Street Bachelors #3).

Q: Is there anything else you’d like to add?

A: Only that if you haven’t already preordered This Earl Of Mine, the paperback is currently at a special preorder price of $6.79, so snap it up in time for the release day, October 29th! Happy reading everyone!

Book-buy link: https://us.macmillan.com/books/9781250305961

[msjr0119]

Cordonian Wags

Part 14- Flashlight

In a world full of Professional footballers and their demanding wives- can their football team nicknamed the ‘Cordonian Apples’ succeed? An American female physiotherapist joins the club. Will this cause issues with the footballers wives?

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

Tags: @annekebbphotography @burnsoslow @drakesensworld @ladyangel70 @kingliam2019 @bbrandy2002 @butindeed @bascmve01 @drakewalker04 @pedudley @captain-kingliamsqueen @duchessemersynwalker @insideamirage @of-course-i-went-to-hartfeld @kozabaji @texaskitten30 @ibldw-main @kimmiedoo5 @nikkis1983 @dangerouseggseagleartisan @gnatbrain @walker7519 @lodberg @cmestrella @hopefulmoonobject @addictedtodrakefanfic @angi15h @liamxs-world @rafasgirl23415 @notoriouscs @whenyourheartskipsabeat @jovialyouthmusic @nz1091 @yukinagato2012 @indiacater @seriouslybadchoices @rainbowsinthestorm

******

Riley drove aimlessly around a country she wasn’t used to. Whilst driving she was uncontrollably crying, the previous adrenaline rush and anger that had built up had soon disappeared. Not knowing how she was going to cope working alongside her estranged husband and father in law for all these months. Her thoughts lingered on Drake- contemplating giving up and running away, she couldn’t do that without Drake. He had become her saviour, and she had become his. She felt guilty about ‘stealing’ him away from Kiara- but she didn’t deserve a man that was so thoughtful and loving as Drake Walker.

Pulling up on the side road, she was grateful as she saw that the lights were still on. The building before her contained beautiful architecture, old stone and stained glass windows that were unique. Walking through the door, the musty scent hit her lungs- the quietness was peaceful. Heading towards the front of the aisle, there were candles already lit. Kneeling down- her eyes formed with tears that were gracefully falling down her cheeks- eventually landing on the floor.

I’m so sorry Luis. I’m sorry I couldn’t protect you but I will always love you. You will always be in Mommy’s heart- I’ll never forget you.

Feeling a tap on her shoulder, she flinched. Turning around she noticed the man softly smile at her- the priest wore a robe that was something like a long sleeved black dress with black buttons from the neck right down to the ground.

“Are you okay my child?” She heard the soft, friendly voice- letting her know she wasn’t alone.

“No, father.”

“Do you want to talk about it? The church is always open.” Riley stood up as the priest led her to the wooden bench. Not knowing where to start with her fucked up life- it was like some diabolical movie.

*****

The three men, Olivia and Lindsey searched places where Riley might be- her phone was switched off and Lindsey could throttle her stubborn sister for pushing them all away. She quickly did a flight check seeing if there were any flights that could have previously left for the UK or US- there wasn’t, this was some sort of relief. Looking at Drake, he looked defeated and heartbroken.

“Drake, this time of year is always going to be hard for her. Months after losing Luis, she prayed at church every day. She has never truly gotten over it. But I know my sister, she wouldn’t leave you- you’re both made for each other.”

“What if she has though Linz? What if they have pushed her so far that she felt she had no choice but to leave.” Lindsey noticed his eyes form tears- she had never seen a man cry before or a man love someone so much that he was scared of losing her.

“Forget the what if’s. We are going to find her. Besides it’s training tomorrow, then her birthday and the match on Saturday- she’s very career minded. She was never the typical wag- she was young and in love with the idea of marrying a footballer, but she still got her degree and a career. She may say she’s falling for you Drake, but she has already fallen hard. She loves you- even if she won’t say those three words outright. You are good for her.”

“I hate to agree with her. But you two make a disgustingly cute couple. When your secret came out, I immediately liked how she stood up for herself. Walker you need to chill out. I don’t understand why she would love you but by the sounds of it Xavier and Connie need to die.” Shaking his head he ignored Olivia- she hated him, she always had digs at him. Turning to Lindsey he needed reassurance.

“Do you think she honestly loves me? Sex is just sex to people. Maybe she just wanted me to get over the hurt.”

“Drake she loves you. As far as I remember you both had that spark playing hide and seek as kids. I asked back then if you were boyfriend and girlfriend. I remember. I’ve been thinking and reminiscing about the past and I remember a few times that we had met in the past - but that’s a story for another time.”

Arriving at the last church in town, they had hoped she was there. Sneaking in they overheard voices. One familiar voice, Drake felt as if he could breath again- she hadn’t left him, she hadn’t left them all. The priest looked towards them all at the door, placing his finger over his lips- they all stayed in the shadows listening to the conversation.

******

My life has been a mess, I should be grateful that I still have my sister and godfather around me, supporting me. I know I sound selfish because other people are going through worse situations. When I fell in love I was young, he was a different man- I should have known though. You always see it in the papers, the scandals - the poor wives. I always said I’d never be a home wrecker but when I came here, I kissed someone’s boyfriend. I knew it was wrong the minute I did it- but he makes me feel like I can love again. I see a future with him....

Lindsey looked at Drake smiling, he just wanted to run over to her and scoop her up in his arms. Yes he was someone’s boyfriend at the time, and he agreed with Riley- he never wanted to cheat or split up a relationship. But she too was his saviour. He too could see a future, maybe not marriage or kids- he just wanted her as his.

Is it wrong that I can see a future with someone after knowing them for only nearly two weeks? He’s my flashlight, getting me through all this.

No.

But I said my vows- til death do us part. I should have been trying to fix my marriage, but it’s broken beyond repair. Is God angry for me breaking my vows? Is that why he took Luis away from me? As punishment?

God doesn’t punish good people, he will be looking after Luis for you until you reunite with your son.

But I have been punished. Did I deserve all that I’ve had happen to me? My husband is refusing to divorce me. He still loves me. He says he has changed. But a person like that will never change. I was strong in front of him before- but once I left I was an emotional wreck, all the hurt and heartbreak had returned. I don’t want to be upset anymore. I want to look forward to the future.

And you can look forward to your future. We at the church believe that people can change if they put their minds to it. God does not advocate divorce but it is allowed if the marriage has truly broken down and cannot be repaired. Your future is in your hands. If you have done my child, we have guests.

Riley stood up wiping her tears with the tissue that the priest had given her. Turning to the door, she saw her friends and Drake looking concerned. Wondering how much they heard- she was slightly pissed off, church was meant to be confidential away from prying eyes and ears. She knew for a fact who suggested where she would be- in a way she was grateful but other thoughts believed they should have given her privacy. Feeling selfish thinking that way, what had been done had been done.

“What are you all doing here?”

“We were concerned about you sis. Liam and Leo explained what had happened. We all care about you. Myself and Olivia have been debating who’s going to kill Constantine and Xavier first.” Shaking her head, she just wanted to forget about the snakes that were part of her marriage. Walking out of the church, she pulled Drake towards her, forcing a passionate kiss on his lips. Breaking the kiss, she looked at him- before singing in his ear.

I got all I need when I got you and I

I look around me, and see a sweet life

I'm stuck in the dark but you're my flashlight

You're getting me, getting me through the night

Kick start my heart when you shine it in my eyes

Can't lie, it's a sweet life

I'm stuck in the dark but you're my flashlight

You're getting me, getting me through the night

'Cause you're my flashlight

*****

The players all arrived at the stadium for training the following morning. Maxwell caught up with Bertrand, Liam, Leo and Drake- he hadn’t seen them all for a couple of days and was shocked at what he had discovered. Zeke came over to join in the conversation. He was getting frustrated with Kiara crying on the phone to Penelope constantly. Suggesting to Drake that he gains some closure with Kiara before he killed her, Drake refused- Zeke understood once Drake explained all of what happened. His eyes widened as Drake reiterated all that he had been through, Zeke didn’t know who his sister truly was- he gave Drake his full support and apologies.

The men began training on the pitch, Drake joined in much to Riley’s annoyance. She wanted him to take it slow, but he insisted he was fine to kick a ball with his other foot- but agreed to not run. Eagerly watching the men train, she was happy with them all- Bertrand agreed with her. Xavier was watching on the sidelines, but his concentration was mainly on his wife. She had avoided his gaze- but was looking at Drake Walker all the time.

Walking on to the pitch he pulled Drake over to the corner, whilst Riley was distracted talking to Bertrand.

“Walker.” Arsehole, what does my wife see in him.

“What do you want?” Great, got my girlfriends wanker husband wanting to berate me for something.

“Is that any way to speak to your manager? I wanted to talk to you like men.” You are only a footballer Walker, I am in charge of you and your future. You will only every be a fling, and I want you to know that. She is married to me.

“Go on....” This is going to be a laugh- abusive husband wanting to be civil and grown up. Talking like men? Pull the other leg Xavier.

“You do know, my wife is a gold digger. She’s not interested in you. She’s only interested in the money.” Like all the other Wags- but I am responsible for her, til death do us part. What else will make you walk away from my wife.

“Your eyes really should be green, Xavier. They would match your personality.” Harsh, but oh so true. When will he ever back off? He doesn’t deserve to be in a happy relationship.

“I’m not jealous, I’m just warning you.” Pulling Drake closer to him, he whispered in his ear so no one could hear. “She will always be mine. I’m her husband. And I intend on keeping it that way.” Til death do us part Walker, my wife not yours.

“Why won’t you just divorce her? If you loved her you’d do that! I’m not letting her go. So you’ll have to fight for her.” Not dealing with this- walk away be the bigger man. He is hated, I have people supporting me and Riley as a couple. Drake walked away holding his head high. Xavier was riled up, he wanted to carry on drilling into Drakes mind that Riley was his- frustration hit him as Drake walked away from the situation. Chasing after Drake, he launched at him - after a few blows towards him, he busted Drakes nose and lips -it was like Kiara all over again. But this time he needed to protect himself and Riley- defend the both of them.

“Did you enjoy fucking my wife? Because that will all it’ll ever be! She wouldn’t marry you- you have no future together.” Drake wiped away the blood from his nose, and lips. He wanted to remain silent, not causing anymore trouble.

“I’ve not been ‘fucking’ your wife. I’ve been making love to your soon to be ex wife. And she loved it. She loves me Xavier, maybe you should learn to keep hold of a diamond, rather than picking up rocks!”

Liam and Leo saw the commotion, running over to the two men- the two brothers dragged Xavier away from Drake. Before the espanol could react, Leo mimicked his actions he had taken towards Drake.

“That was for hurting our sister in law and nephew..... and that one was for hurting our friend. Stay the fuck away from us all ‘BRO’ “

Riley and Bertrand had finished their intense conversation- hearing the commotion and witnessing the team all scrapping- they both ran over, with cold packs. Bertrand gave one to Leo for his hand, and Riley saw to Drake. Holding him protectively, she gathered some gauze out of the first aid kit. The men explained what had happened, and that once the whole team had ‘ganged’ up on Xavier he sneaked away- not looking back at any of them. He needed support on his side. The only person who would support him was the chairman, his father.

“I’m so sorry Drake. You didn’t have to defend me. He’s an arsehole.” She said gently pressing the gauze on his lips.

“Would you marry me though? You are so beautiful it hurts thinking at how he could hurt you.” He laughed at the marriage question not expecting an answer.

“Yes, I probably would do. And it’s your nose and lips that hurt.”

“I think it’s my heart- my heart is constantly breaking for you. I’m always going to be here for you.” Her lips gently brushed his. Not innocently, like a tease but passionately. “Riley” he whispered slowly. Breaking the kiss they smiled at each other, her heart began fluttering at the sound of voice, saying her name.

“I love you.” She finally admitted, kissing his nose and lips tenderly.

“I love you too.” Maxwell wolf whistled after witnessing the affection between the two. Everyone abandoned training, leaving to go home to rest before the second match that was taking place tomorrow.

******

Later that night, there was a cool air entering my lungs, sending shivers down my spine. It’s the teams second match tomorrow afternoon, but I can’t help myself paying the chairman a little visit. Seeing the lights on, I am grateful that my journey isn’t wasted. If anyone knew where I was in this moment in time they’d ask questions. No need for questions. But there is a need for answers. Answers regarding how fucked up this whole situation is. Love affairs, divorces, secrets, trauma- what’s coming next? I dread to think.

I have always despised the man since I first met him, he always believed he was the ‘king’ of everyone. Having control over anyone, and every situation. When in reality he is just a slimy old man, that only prioritises where he’s getting his next shag from. Now his scandal about having more children has come alight, I wonder if there are anymore to come out of the woodwork.

Walking up to his office, I gulp. Am I crazy? Or am I just defending all of us. Surely he has more secrets? Does he deserve to die? Some may say yes. Some may say no. But someone needs to stand up to him and I intend on doing that.

“What are you doing here?” He asks me, looking angry but also shocked at the same time. Discreetly I smile. I ask if we can talk, like adults. He huffs at first, explaining that he is busy, but he eventually agrees. I was shocked that he didn’t have a whore hiding somewhere in his office. Falling into my trap, he asks me to pour us both a drink. Smirking, I gladly accept. Pouring us both a scotch, I wasn’t exactly fond of the drink but I had to play along- pouring the extra ingredient into his drink. It was only a matter of time, before he felt the slightest bit of hurt.

We talked for a while, about random things. Mainly about the team, and then his family life. ‘Showing’ an interest in his life, he seemed to open up a fresh new can of worms, before holding his chest and collapsing. Pouring the remainder of my drink away, I cleaned my tumbler. Laughing at him as he begged for help, he was dizzy and feeling confused. I walked away- anonymously ringing an ambulance. He won’t die - not today anyway, he will just be knocked out. One of his whores or poor Regina may find him in this vulnerable situation before the paramedics arrive. In his drunk state of mind, I managed to get him to sign something- a termination of a contract. Unknowingly he didn’t know what he had just signed.

“Goodnight Connie.” Exiting the stadium I drive home, mission complete- I said, smirking.