#always liam and riley

[tessa-liam]

Turning the Page 

-6- Right Here Waiting 

Choices, The Royal Romance, AU 

Series Premise: As Riley Brooks journeys through life as a single parent in New York City, an epiphany strikes as she contemplates the future for herself and her two-year-old son. 

Turning the Page Masterlist 

Main Pairing: Liam Rys x F!MC Riley Brooks  

All characters belong to Pixelberry, except William Brooks (Rys) and Matteo Magro, who belong to this series.  

Category: On-going series, contains angst/fluff/depression.  

Rating: M🔞Warnings - Series will contain crude language, NSFW material – not Beta’d - please excuse all errors. 

Right Here Waiting - 6 

Chapter Summary: After spending time with his son, Liam begins his journey to repair his relationship with Riley. 

Music & Title Inspiration:  Right Here Waiting, Richard Marx  

A/N1: In this alternate universe, after King Constantine orchestrates two individual scandals to humiliate and entrap Riley Brooks and Olivia Nevrakis in shame, Madeleine Amaranth secures her position as the Queen of Cordonia. Riley, as the King’s mistress and Olivia, in self-imposed exile. Tariq is never found.  

A/N2: My submission for @choicesflashfics, Week#59, prompt #3 - “That was then. This is now. Things change.” 

A/N3: My submission for @choicesnovchallenge, prompt #28, Holidays and Events – French Toast Day  

Words: 2500

Brooklyn Heights, New York

Straightening his back, Liam rubbed his eyes, as the jet lag took its toll. After checking the time on his cell, Liam stood up and took another look at his sleeping son. His heart was full, and he felt a sense of peace that he had not known in a long time. He knew it would take time, but he was determined to earn Riley's trust again, and that he would never give up on his son. 

Riley waited for him in the kitchen and offered a warm smile as he entered its rustic décor. “I know it's late, but I'm starving. Do you want something to eat?” 

Liam was grateful for the offer. “Yes, thank you. I haven’t eaten anything since lunch. That would be great.” 

“Have a seat, and I’ll make us some dinner.” Riley smiled coquettishly, pulling a chair for him from under the table. 

Liam sat down at the kitchen table and watched as Riley busied herself with preparing their meal. It was a surreal moment, and he had a hard time believing that this was actually happening, but the aroma of the food and the sight of Riley moving about the kitchen with ease, made it all too real. 

As they ate, Liam could sense the tension between them. He knew there was so much left unsaid, but he was hesitant to push Riley too far, too fast. He decided to try a different tactic, one that was more familiar to them both. 

“How have you been, Riley?” 

Riley was startled by his question, and her eyes darted up to meet his. “I’ve been … okay. Busy with work, and William keeps me on my toes,” she replied. 

“Tell me about him,” Liam encouraged. 

Riley’s eyes lit up, and a smile tugged at her lips. “Well … he’s amazing, Liam.” Riley’s eyes sparkled with genuine love. “He’s smart, funny, and so full of energy. He loves animals, and his favorite food is chicken nuggets. He’s just …” she trailed off, tears filling her eyes. 

“He’s your whole world,” Liam finished for her. 

“Yes,” Riley said softly, her voice choked with emotion. 

“I am so, sorry I was not there for you, Riley. For both of you.” Liam’s expression was wistful. 

“Liam, how could you have known?” she replied, looking down; not able to return his gaze.   

Liam reached across the table and gently squeezed her hand. 

“Riley... look at me, please.” Slowly lifting her head, she met his gaze. “I will never stop regretting that I was not there for you. That you felt that you could not confide in me.” 

She gave him a tearful smile, her lips trembling. “We both know, had I told you, you would have given up the throne.  And the country could not afford that. And Madeleine …” Riley lost her battle with her tears and looked down to her hands. “Madeleine would have taken advantage of the situation, and …"  

Liam sighed, his thumb brushing the back of her hand. “Riley, I would have found a way. But you are right. My duty is to my people, first and foremost. Duty is important, especially when its most difficult to carry out.” 

“That is what I admire most about you, Liam.”  Riley’s breath hitched, “that is why I agreed to be your mistress when Tariq couldn’t be found.” 

“Riley, you were never my mistress, you are the love of my life,” he replied, his voice firm. 

“Liam, please.” Riley wiped the fresh tears away. 

“No, Riley, please let me finish... 

When I was crowned King, I vowed to always put the needs of my people before my own. I went through the motions of an engagement and then the marriage. But the day you left, love, I realized that without you, I could never be the King my people deserved. I was miserable, and I knew that if I lost you forever, I would never be happy again. Riley, you are my home.” 

“Liam, I …" 

“No, my love. You do not have to say anything. I just need you to know how I feel. I love you, and I will do whatever it takes to prove that to you.” Liam watched as Riley broke down and he at once moved to her side, taking her into his arms. 

"You don't have to say anything," he assured her. "I just want you to know that I'm here for you, and I'm not going anywhere. If you feel the same about me.” 

"What about Madeleine?" Riley asked, her eyes searching his. 

"As of this afternoon, Madeleine was served with dissolution papers. My lawyers have already let me know that, in exchange for clemency, that Madeleine will leave Cordonia. Riley, that marriage and along with it, the Cordonian arrangement, has been absolved.” 

Riley was speechless, clearly overwhelmed by his revelations. 

Liam lifted his hand to cup her cheek; he could see the exhaustion on her face, and he knew they both needed some rest. "Let's get some sleep, and we can talk more tomorrow." 

Riley nodded and stood, and he followed her down the hallway to her bedroom. They walked in silence as Riley's nerves were very aware of Liam’s proximity.  He looked so good, and it had been so long since she had felt his touch. She demurely smiled up at him and started to pull him through the door. 

"Riley," Liam began, slowing his walk, pausing beside the guest room. 

"But..." Riley protested. 

"Please, Riley, let's not rush this. I want to do things right this time. Let us begin to re-write our story.” 

Liam kissed her cheek. "Good night, my love. Sleep well." 

"You too, Liam," she responded. 

As Liam turned to leave, Riley impulsively reached out again to pull him close. Their lips met in a tender kiss, and Liam was lost in the sensation of her soft lips on his. It had been so long, and his body reacted instantly, the fire within him threatening to consume him. He forced himself to pull away, his breath ragged. 

"Riley..." he warned, unhooking her arms from his neck. 

"I know, Liam, I just had to have one last taste." 

Liam laughed, his heart soaring. "One last taste? Who said this will be the last time?" 

Riley giggled, her face flushing. "Good night, Liam." 

"Good night, Riley." 

They stood there for a moment, each taking in the sight of the other. Finally, Liam reluctantly turned and headed into the guest room. Riley closed her door and leaned against it, her heart pounding. She could not believe what had just happened, but she was elated and hopeful for the future. 

The Four Seasons Hotel, Manhattan 

Stumbling into the penthouse suite, Leo chortled, guiding the blond to his room with his hands firmly locked on her waist. The young woman giggled and pushed the door open, and he followed, closing the door behind them with a kick. 

"Now where were we?" Leo suggestively said, pulling the woman close and kissing her soundly. 

"Leo, stop," the woman giggled, pushing him away. 

"Come on, baby, don't be like that," he purred, pulling her close again. 

"Leo, no ... you're drunk," she protested, but he could tell she was enjoying the attention. 

"So are you," he countered, his lips scaling down her neck. 

“I know,” she snickered. “Do you remember my name?” Leo pulled away and looked at her. She was gorgeous, and he couldn’t help but smile. 

"Of course, I do," he lied, "but maybe you can refresh my memory?" 

She laughed and shook her head. "It's Ashley." 

"Ashley," Leo repeated, tasting the name on his lips. "I like that." 

"I bet you say that to all the girls," she teased. 

"No, no ... only the beautiful ones," he replied, his words slurring slightly. 

Ashley laughed, "hey, stop .... your phone is vibrating!"

Leo grabbed the phone from his pocket and squinted at the screen. 

"It's a text from my brother. It says, 'we need to talk.’” 

Concerned, Leo called Liam back at once, disentangling Ashley's arms from his neck. 

"What is it, Li? Are you alright?" Leo's voice was laced with worry. 

"I'm fine, but I have news." Liam's tone was calm, which confused and intrigued Leo. 

"What's going on, Liam?" Leo asked, his concern growing. 

"Riley and I... well, I just met my son."

After a moment of silence ... 

"You...you have a son?" Leo repeated, his eyes widening in shock. 

"Yes. William. Riley's son. Our son." 

Leo ran his hand through his hair and looked around the room, his mind racing. 

"Are you there, Leo?" Liam asked, breaking the silence. 

"Yeah, sorry. This is just a lot to take in." 

"I know. I'll explain everything later. I will be staying here with Riley, for now. I need you to take care of a few things for me." 

"Sure, Liam. Anything," Leo agreed. “But I need all the deets, asap.” 

"Thank you. And Leo, keep this quiet. We don't need the press finding out about this." 

"Li.... what should I tell Olivia? The council? They are expecting you to attend the Five Kingdoms Festival opening ceremony next weekend." 

"That was scheduled months ago. That was then. This is now. Things change." 

"You got it, Liam. Talk to you soon." 

Leo ended the call and stared at his phone, still trying to wrap his head around his brother's news. He looked up to find Ashley slipping out the door. Sighing, Leo poured scotch into a crystal tumbler and switched on the television. 

 Brooklyn Heights, New York City 

The sun's rays were streaming through the patio doors of the kitchen as Daniel scooped three teaspoons of sugar into his black coffee. Matteo quickly kissed him goodbye before heading out the door as William climbed up on his toddler chair with his train car. 

"So, buddy, what would you like for breakfast?" 

"I'm hungery, Dan Dan."  

Grinning, Daniel poured apple juice into a sippy cup, "you are? Hmmm. I'm thinking french toast with berries and syrup.” 

William's face lit up, and he clapped his hands excitedly. "Yummy!" 

"You got it, kid," Daniel chuckled, pulling out a pan and the ingredients. 

Liam walked into the kitchen as Daniel's eyes widened in surprise. "Your Majesty, good morning." 

"Good morning, Daniel. I think it's time you started calling me Liam. No need for formalities." 

"And good morning to you William." Liam smiled affectionately, turning his attention to his son. 

William looked up to the tall man, shyly, "Hi". 

"Okay, Liam. Can I get you anything to eat or drink?" 

"Just a cup of coffee, please." 

Daniel poured the King a cup as Liam sat down at the table; already knowing that Liam had come to reunite with Riley yesterday evening. 

William was watching Liam closely and offered to share his toy train.

"For me? Thank you." William smiled and pointed at his breakfast. 

"Dan Dan made me it."  

"Is that so? It looks delicious. Do you mind if I have some too?" 

William giggled, "okay." 

"Dan, could you please make me a plate as well?" 

Daniel nodded, "absolutely. Coming right up." 

"Thank you.”  

“So, William, I see you like trains?" 

"Yes! And puppies.” 

"Wow, you really do like a lot of things." 

William grinned, taking a sip of his juice. 

"You and I have a lot in common. I love trains, too. And... puppies.” Liam smiled. 

William grinned, "you're funny, Mr. Liam." 

"You think so? I'm glad you think so, William. You know, I've always loved trains, even when I was a little boy. Would you like to hear a story about a train I rode on once?" 

William's eyes widened in delight. "I like stories.” 

"Okay, here goes," Liam said, taking a bite of his food. "One day, when I was about your age, my father and I were traveling across the country, and we decided to take the train instead of our usual car. It was a very big train, with many cars, and we had to ride in a special car just for us." 

"Wow!" William exclaimed; his eyes wide with wonder. 

"We rode that train for hours and hours, and we stopped in many different towns and cities. Each one was more beautiful than the last. But then, something strange happened." 

"Oh," William asked, his face a mixture of fear and curiosity. 

"We got stuck. The train stopped working, and we were stranded. It was a very scary situation. We were all alone, with no one to help us. We had no idea what to do. But then, something amazing happened." 

"What? What happened?" 

Liam leaned in and whispered conspiratorially, "a magic train came along and rescued us. It was like something out of a fairy tale." 

"Wow," William breathed, eyes wide.

"Yes, it was quite incredible. We were all safe, and the train took us the rest of the way. But it was an adventure I will never forget." 

"Wow," William breathed in awe. 

Leaning against the doorframe, Riley looked at the two, smiling as she took in the scene before her. 

"Good morning, everyone," she announced brightly. 

"Good morning, Riley," Liam replied, standing up to greet her, kissing her cheek. 

William's eyes widened, "Mama, look, Mr. Liam told me a story." 

Riley grinned, ruffling her son's hair, taking the seat next to William. 

"LiLi, this man …” Riley reached across the table and squeezed Liam’s hand. 

“... is your Daddy."  

"Daddy? My daddy?" William turned and looked up at his father, eyes wide, filled with wonder. 

"Yes, I am," Liam softly replied; overcome with emotion. 

Liam stood and knelt, meeting his son's eyes. "I've been away for a while, but I'm here now, and I want to be part of your life, if you'll have me."

William smiled, wrapping his arms around Liam's neck. “My Daddy.” 

Liam's heart swelled as he embraced his son.

"And Mama, too?" William asked.

"Of course, and Mama too." Liam looked at Riley lovingly.

Thanks for reading!

📌All fics & edits: @ao719 @txemrn @queenmiarys @sfb123 @twinkleallnight @alj4890 @differenttyphoonwerewolf @harleybeaumont @busywoman @karahalloway @kingliam2019 @imjusthereforliam @lovingchoices14 @kyra75 @tinkie1973 @emkay512 @malblk21 @kristinamae093 @charlotteg234

📌TRR/TRF Liam & Riley: @irisk12 , @walkerdrakewalker @thesvnsins @jared2612

📌Turning the Page: @emersyn-in-cordonia @mainstreetreader @belencha77 @iluaaa @mysticalfangirl @queenwalton @bascmve01 @umccall71 @choicesfrog @amandablink

📌Submissions: @choicesficwriterscreations @choicesflashfics @choicesnovemberchallenge

[bebepac]

Six Sentence Sunday 06.11.23 / Mood Music Monday

It is what it is, and sometimes you just have to walk away and hope for the best.  I’ve been so busy and it’s been very difficult to write, even though I have a nice little spot for it now that I created.  I have more items coming in on Tuesday to make it the perfect writing space / office space.  I’m really trying to upper level adult here, save some money, pay down some things, and next year, take that Greece Trip I that I couldn’t in 2020  when it got cancelled due to Covid, The one I imagined in the epic birthday Fic  Greek Meat.  

Tags have been beyond crazy  so if you missed anything I’ve written in the past few weeks here it is: 

The Moments In Between (Riley x Drake) 

The Rotten Apple 🍎:  The Last Part

Original Post: 6/11/23 at 8:47PM EST.

Chapter 5: Moonlight Rendevous The Book:  TRR (no royals) The Series:  The Blue Honey Cafe The pairings: TRR MC is single Status:  Still in the writing process / almost complete!

Mason was chivalrous, a complete southern gentleman.  He had not only opened the door on her own vehicle, he had waited for her to get in and gently close the door behind her.  When they made it to Wheelz,  Mason jumped out of the vehicle like a rocket, as soon as it was parked, opening the door for her once more.  

“Will you at least let me pay for the skate rental?”

“No, it’s the least I can do for your being kind enough to take me home tonight.”  

“I’m not heartless, I wouldn’t leave you stranded like that.”

“It’s the south,  I was far from stranded. But I’m glad you decided to indulge your blooming southern charm to help me out. Come on, let’s see what you’ve got out there on the rink.”  

It quickly turned into healthy competition and showboating between the two as they skated around the rink.

“Not bad New York.  Not bad at all.”   Mason laid on a thickly horrible new york accent.

“Likewise North Cakalacky.”  Riley said with an even worse southern accent.

The last skate turned out to be a couple’s skate.  The music was slow, and had a romantic feel. She found herself leaning closer into Mason, who had a boyish grin on his face, and he in turn pulled her closer to him too, his hand gripping hers tighter.

Driving back neither said a word, lost in their own thoughts.  When they pulled to a stop at Mason’s apartment, Riley was the first to speak.  

“I really enjoyed spending this time with you Mason.  I feel like we got a chance to get to know each other a little bit better, and we’re both a little competitive apparently.”  

Mason laughed.   “Right?!?!?! Nothing like some good healthy competition to get the blood pumping. But seriously Riley,  I had a great time with you too.”

He paused for a moment.  

“You know Riley, tonight doesn’t have to end  right now if you don’t want it to.”

Riley’s eyes met Mason’s.  “Are you asking me up to your place?”  

“I am, It’s your choice.  I promise to be the perfect gentleman.”  

“What if I don’t want you to be, Mason?”  

Mood Music Monday Submission The Final Chaper:  The Wedding Series:  The Rotten Apple🍎 The Book:  TRH and beyond Pairings:  Eleanor x Nico  (Eleanor x M!OC) Song Inspiraton (2 of 2)  Favorite Song by Toosii

“Eleanor and Nicolas! Stop with the kissy face already! Acting like there isn’t a wedding today! You come with me! And you! Put on a damn shirt! She’s already pregnant!”

Elle burst out laughing.

“Mama! Seriously!!”

“Yes I’m serious, you put on some damn clothes!”  

Mama K was brutally honest and very hilarious. Once back in the room with Mama K, she looked at Elle in silence for a moment.  “I presume you two are alright.”  

“Better than ever.”  

“Then let's get you dressed.”

“Thank you Mama.  You have no idea how much this means to me.”  

“Yes I do Eleanor, because you have told me a thousand times already.  You are loved immeasurably today, and always by me.  You are my daughter, and you make my son incredibly happy.  And after today, all of us will finally be family by law, but we’ve always been family in the eyes of God.”

There was a soft knock to the door.  

“It better not be Nico trying to sneak over here.” Mama K opened the door and smiled quickly ushering her into the room.

“You have a guest Elle.”  

“I hope I'm not too late.”

“LIBBY!”

“Great you’re not dressed yet,  I thought maybe I could help too?  And I have a gift for you. Something old and borrowed. Mama K said she already handled the something blue.”  

“Libby… I can't wear that.  It’s Mother’s.”  

“She always said she wanted her daughters to wear this on their weddings.  You’re getting married.”

Elle shook her head.  “She wouldn’t want me…. She didn’t want me….”  

“Wear it Elle.  It’s a piece of your mother, even though she couldn’t be here with you. I know this is not how you wanted things to be, but you are surrounded by the people who love you, just like Nico said. We love you Elle.”  

Today, with the help of her sister, and “Mother,” she was putting on a dress, unlike any other dress.   

A dress in  a style she never thought she would ever want to wear again, a dress she thought was incredibly beautiful, that would in addition to the vows, give her a new life.She was leaving this room Eleanor Rys, but by the end of the day she would be Eleanor Karahalios,  Wife of Nicolas, mother of Eliana, and the little one growing in her belly at that moment. It’s finally time for the best part.

“I feel beautiful.”  

“You look beautiful.”  

“It’s really happening,  I’m getting married today.”  

[http-paprika]

I love your stories so much lemme tell you I binge read all of em and I wanted to ask if maybe you could write a ghost x wife reader where he has a nightmare about losing them

In With the Rain | Simon "Ghost" Riley

My first-ever request, aren't I such a lucky gal! Anyways, this took forever for me to get around to writing, sorry. This was also a difficult request to answer because I know others have done stories similar. So, if there are any similarities, it purely by coincidence. Enjoy!

wc: 719 pairing: simon "ghost" riley x f!reader warnings: brief mentions of violence, gore, and death; along with way too much angst. includes: ghost being a caring father and husband.

─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───

The storm outside raged loudly like the one inside of Simon’s mind. He couldn’t distinguish between the beating of rain against the bedroom window and the spray of builts piercing against him.

Screaming, searing pain beat into him as the battle in his mind ran loose. The line between reality and delusion thins as the distinctive smell of iron violently rips through his senses, and the warm liquid seeps through his gear and clothes. The crumpled figure in his arms clings to him with what little strength it has, his wife's battered and beaten remains. His love, the person who’d pulled him through so many storms before, a firm foundation that has been reduced to broken skin and bones. It aches in his body, the feeling of her heart losing its rhythm, and the slowing of her breath. Like a knife through his chest, through all the layers of ice he’d built to prevent something like this from happening. 

“Y/N! God! Y/N!” Simon wants to scream, but his voice comes out hoarse as if he’s been screaming for her for hours. Hot tears stream down his face, clinging to his mask and falling onto her discolored skin. How could he have done this to her? In his mind, Simon always feared he’d be her downfall, her upcoming, but this was worse than he’d ever dreamed.

 Cracking thunder against the sky jolts him awake, like the shockwave of a bomb ringing through his ears, heightening his heart rate. The battlefield had dissolved around him, he was no longer stranded in some horrific, unforgiving place, but in the safety of his townhouse. The sheets have been kicked to the end of the bed Simon shares with his wife, his hand reaches to his right, searching desperately for her body and warmth. But the bed is empty, only keeping remnants of her warm and an indentation of where her body had laid. 

 Almost falling out of bed, he stumbles through the room, not giving a second glance to his disheveled state as he passes the mirror. He searches with vigor through the house, in the bathroom, in his son’s bedroom, in the office, all through the rooms but Simon can’t find her, the house is an empty shell with no one but him. 

 Standing in the kitchen, his body shakes with fear after being unable to find her or their son. Were they gone? Disappearing from his life and taking his security with them. But the light from the back porch catches his attention, Simon could’ve sworn he’d turned it off before retiring for the night. His hand reaches the handle, and the door which he’d most definitely locked, creaks open. Stepping out, where the rain is no longer muffled by the outside, his eyes finally fall on her. She’s curled up on the lounger, their son tucked in the crook of her arms. 

 “Y/N?” She uncurls herself enough to turn and stare at Simon, eyes drooping from an evident lack of sleep. “What’re you doing out here?” 

 “Liam wasn’t sleeping, and you know the rain calms him down.” He nods at her statement, stepping and sitting at the foot of the lounge chair. “Sorry, I didn’t mean to worry you.” 

“S’not your fault.” Simon sighs, rubbing his face before returning to look at their infant child. “Thought you were gone for a moment.” 

“Oh–” Y/N frowns, knowing what he’d meant. It’d been some time since he’d had one of those dreams, the last few times being right after Liam was born. “Well, we’re still here. We’re not going anywhere, Simon.” 

 “I know, I shouldn’t worry you with my problems.” He responds, putting a hand on her knee. “Sorry.” 

 “You know you don’t have to apologize to me about that, I’m your wife. You’re allowed to tell me when you’re worried or afraid.” She reminds him, repositioning Liam so that she can place a hand on top of Simon’s. “I’m here for you, don’t ever forget that.” 

 “Thank you. I could never ask for more.” A smile ghosts Simon’s face as he looks back at her. Knowing, truly knowing that she was there for him, and she was safe. As long as he was alive, they’d be safe. And those nightmares would never be anything more than that. 

[ao719]

Best Kept Secrets

Best Kept Secrets - And Now It’s Too Late (Chapter 15)

Characters belong to Pixelberry.

Summary: An unforeseen encounter with the past proves that even the best-kept secrets eventually make their way into the light.

Title inspiration: I Tried - Camylio

Book/Pairing: TRR; Liam x F!OC

A/N: Thank you to @burnsoslow for prereading. Please excuse any errors.

Rating: M • Warning: This series will contain NSFW material. If you read, you acknowledge you are 18+

Catch up here

Inside the council chambers, Liam drummed his fingers against the table as his gaze casually shifted between each of his council members and advisors as they conversed in hushed tones amongst themselves.

They were discussing Sophia.

It had been two weeks since Liam found out about his child and met her for the first time. He had taken a week away from his duties to try and not only continue to attempt to process everything but to get to know Sophia, to spend as much one-on-one time with her as he could. He also took that week to inform those he both needed and wanted to. Between telling Leo and Regina, he was thrown for a loop when his brother seemed more shocked out of the two. Regina certainly had more questions regarding his past with Amara, however, which he expected. He’d also told Maxwell and Olivia, both who gaped at him in stunned silence upon hearing it.

Everyone seemed happy for him once the shock had worn off, however, and they’d been excited to meet Sophia.

After taking that week for himself, Liam finally met with his council and advisors. Taking Rashad’s suggestion, he nervously told them everything regarding his past with Amara, the blackmail Auvernal used against him for the alliance, and the daughter he had that he knew nothing about up until recently. While quite surprised, all in all, they’d taken it much better than Liam had anticipated they would. He’d spent the last few days in and out of meetings with them as some helped Rashad look into the alliance for loopholes and the rest discussed how to move forward with the revelation of having an heir to the throne.

Over the last week, the council had grilled Liam with questions about Amara and her intentions going forward as the mother of the heir. He didn’t have much to give them considering he hadn’t seen or spoken to her since the day he walked out of his study after she told him everything. Communications between them had been strictly through Riley, Daniel, or Imogen. Liam had explained to his council that the two of them hadn’t actually sat down and discussed any specifics yet and that he was going to need both time and privacy before doing so.

Liam had spent every day of that week away from his duties with Sophia, but she’d gone back to Amara every night. Now that he was back to his normal schedule, he would see her as much as he could both between and after work, but she still went back to Amara at the end of the day. He was trying not to move too quickly for Sophia’s sake, working his way up to having her stay with him overnight because he wanted her to adapt comfortably to him suddenly being a part of her life. She seemed to be adjusting well, though, and thankfully, they already seemed to have a pretty close bond. By the end of that first week, she recognized him at first glance, would go to him without hesitation, and a few times, had gotten upset when it was time for them to part ways at the end of their days together.  

Not once had Amara given Liam a hard time about wanting to see Sophia either. Not once had she questioned it. Not once had she tried to interfere or insist that she be involved for any reason. And not once had she asked to see or speak to him. None of it was like her.

Liam knew that because of her past and the things she’d gone through, Amara was the type of person who liked to have control over every aspect of her life. She needed it. She clung to that control like a lifeline. It was her way of being prepared, of always staying a step or two ahead. Sophia was a piece of her life — a huge, important piece — in which she had to now relinquish some of that control, and for someone like Amara, he knew that wasn’t easy for her. And despite not feeling ready to face her yet, Amara not even trying to see or speak to him just felt … off-kilter. Since everything happened and their conversation that day in his study, despite living in the same vicinity, he hadn’t seen or heard so much as a peep from her.

Last night, Liam finally asked Riley about Amara when she and Drake were visiting while he had Sophia; he played it off, taking the opportunity when Drake was playing Uncle to casually bring her up, asking how she’d been adjusting in the quarters of the north wing that had become her temporary home. Riley didn’t give him much to go on at first, only saying that she was “as well as could be expected.” The look he wore must have given him and his curiosity away. She told him that Amara had kind of shut down since everything came to light, but that she had made it clear that she had no intention of getting in the way of him building a relationship with Sophia. Riley told him that Amara’s only focus was making sure he got whatever time with Sophia he wanted … and anything else for that matter … including space from her, afraid her mere presence might upset him further and ruin his time with Sophia.

Because of Liam’s own struggles … hearing that felt like a punch in the gut.

The truth was, while Liam was slowly settling into this new role of a father, every moment he spent with Sophia served as a reminder of how much he missed Amara, and he was struggling because of it. He missed what they started to gain back before everything went to hell in the blink of an eye. They had finally been in a place to truly explore a relationship together, something he had longed for the last two years, something they both longed for if he were to believe everything she had told him. And each day he spent with Sophia only made those reminders heavier. He couldn’t help but look at their daughter and wonder what it would be like, the three of them, together as a family. He couldn’t look at her without envisioning that life for them. He couldn’t look at her without seeing Amara, without thinking about her.

However, even though he still loved Amara … Liam couldn’t get past the bitterness and resentment he felt, and he didn’t know if he’d be able to. Those thoughts of his feelings for her, of his longing to be with her, would become eclipsed in the shadows of the anger and sadness over her secrets and the betrayal he felt, and he still wasn’t dealing with any of it.

Liam wasn’t someone with the luxury of letting his emotions get the better of him and allowing himself to fall apart, so plastering on his masterful stoic facade was something he was used to, a mask that had become easy to hide behind. And he was wholly ignoring the way that proverbial bottle he continued shoving everything inside of was slowly beginning to chip and shatter from the inside out.

“Did you hear me, sir?” Landon asked.

Liam snapped out of the daze he’d fallen into and looked at him, clearing his throat. “I’m sorry, what was that?”

“We’re going to need the child’s birth certificate … as well as a paternity test.”

Liam’s brows furrowed. “The birth certificate I can understand, but why do you need a paternity test?”

“It’s just a part of the process,” Olivia answered on behalf of the others.

“Yes,” Bertrand nodded in agreement. “It’s not that we doubt Ms. Onasis’ claims or your belief that this child is yours. We still need to verify the legitimacy of it, though. It’s to protect both you and the crown, sir.”

“Anyone can write someone’s name on a birth certificate,” Landon said. “In a predicament such as this, with the … history between you two, her being out of your life for two years prior to your reconnection, and because you’re unmarried, there can be no uncertainty when it comes to the rightful heir to the throne. So, as invasive as the paternity test may feel to you, it’s necessary. When the time comes to share the news publicly, we will have indisputable proof so there is no question about it.”

Liam dropped their gazes, letting out a breath as he slowly nodded. “Set up the test … and I’ll get you the birth certificate as soon as I can.”

“Well, I think that’s all for today,” Rashad said, and the others nodded in collective agreement.

The King remained seated as they all stood and gathered their things. As they filed out of the room, Rashad lingered behind, waiting until the others were gone. “You ok?”

Liam sighed. “Yeah.”

“I know this might seem like a lot—”

“No, I get it,” Liam interrupted. He let out a breath, rubbing his eyes for a moment before meeting Rashad’s gaze. “Anything with the alliance?”

Rashad shook his head. “I know there’s something … we just need to find it. But that’s why I stayed behind, actually. I had a thought … and I wanted to run it by you.” Liam looked at him questioningly. “During these alliance talks, how was your relationship with Monterisso?”

Liam shrugged. “They were clearly the more level-headed of the options. Queen Amalas seemed to want to work together for all of the right reasons, and we seemed to be on the same page about a lot of issues, including Auvernal being a potential problem in the future. I’d say we had a good relationship, but now … the alliance hasn’t been publicly announced yet, but I’m sure word has gotten back to her about it …”

Rashad nodded. “If push came to shove … would you trust her?”

“I … yeah, I think I would,” Liam said. “Why? What are you getting at?”

“She’s known as the Spy Queen, Liam. If anyone can help us dig up something on Auvernal, she’d be the one to go to. But … you’d have to be willing to tell her about the blackmail because I doubt she’ll just do it out of the goodness of her heart … and probably not without gaining something in return for it.”

Liam shook his head. “I can’t — I won’t tell her about Sophia.”

“You don’t have to,” Rashad said. “I said to tell her about the blackmail … Sophia wasn’t part of that. So you don’t mention her.” The two men held gazes for a moment. “It’s worth at least a meeting with her if it could help us get out of this. The worst she’s going to say is no …”

Liam rubbed his hand over his mouth as he glanced out the window and thought for a moment. At that point, he was desperate, and he could think of worse things than partnering up with Monterisso … like being trapped in the alliance he was in now. He glanced back at Rashad, nodding. “See if you can arrange a meeting.”

****

Once Liam left the council chambers, he stopped by his study to check on a few things before heading back out; he was supposed to meet Imogen, who would be bringing Sophia to him, and he was running a little behind.

When he rounded the corner in the hall leading to his quarters, Liam glanced up upon hearing voices, and he smiled as soon as his eyes fell on Sophia. She tightly gripped Imogen’s fingers in her tiny hands while Riley sat on the floor across from her with her arms outstretched, encouraging her to walk. Sophia was almost walking, but still working on her balance, unable to take more than a few steps before stopping, more out of uncertainty it seemed.

When Sophia spotted Liam behind Riley, her smile grew into a broad toothy grin as she let out a squeal and wobbled excitedly. “Hi, Princess,” he chuckled. Riley glanced over her shoulder and smiled before standing, gesturing for him to take her spot. He crouched down, holding out his hands with a grin. “Come on.” She let out another squeal of excitement as she took an unsteady step forward, still holding onto Imogen’s fingers. “Walk to daddy, Sophia,” he said.

Riley pulled out her phone, just in case, and began recording. With her lit-up blue eyes trained on Liam, Sophia took another step as Imogen helped her keep her balance … and then she let go. “Go, Soph!” Riley chuckled.

Liam’s eyes widened with a grin as she took a few unassisted steps before pausing for a moment when she started to wobble. “Come on, Soph! Come get daddy,” he encouraged. She shifted her foot and took another step … then another, and another. “Almost!” he chuckled. He stood, still holding out his arms as he slowly backed up. “There you go,” he smiled as she continued moving towards him. After a few more steps, he scooped her into his arms. “You did it!”

Liam smiled as he kissed Sophia’s cheek, and he felt his heart swell at the fact that he’d been there for that moment and milestone, that he finally got to experience something new for and with her.

“Let’s see if she’ll go further,” Liam said excitedly. He turned so his back was toward the door of his quarters and carefully set her down on her feet facing him, letting her grasp onto his fingers as she caught her balance. “Can you do it again?” He slowly backed up, slipping his fingers from her hands a little at a time until she was standing on her own. “Come on,” he said as he backed up more, holding out his arms for her. She scrunched her nose with a grin and started moving towards him again. “Good job, little love! Keep going,” he chuckled. He continued backing up, watching her toddle down the length of the hallway after him. She wobbled when she started to clap her hands, mimicking Imogen behind her as she and Riley cheered her on, but caught herself before she fell and continued towards him. “Almost there!” He stopped when his back bumped up against the door and leaned forward with his arms outstretched. When she made it to him, he scooped her up again, tossing her up into the air as she giggled. “You did it!”

Sophia looked between Riley and Imogen as they approached, clapping again as they were. Liam was over the moon, still reeling in that feeling of being there with her in that moment she truly walked for the first time. When she glanced back at him, he smothered a playful kiss against her cheek as she giggled. “Mama!” she squealed, clapping again.

And that’s when the gut punch came.

Liam forced that ache in his chest away as he held that smile on his face. “Yes, we’ll have to tell Mommy all about it and you can show her what a big girl you are,” he said as he tickled her belly.

Riley met his gaze, offering a sad smile. “I got it all on video.”

Liam nodded in understanding, but for a brief moment, all he could think about was that Amara should have been there. Yes, he was more than happy to have experienced that with Sophia on his own after everything he’d missed, but that was the problem. He knew firsthand what it was like not to be there, to see photos and videos instead. He knew what Amara was going to feel when she learned she hadn’t been there to see it … and he wouldn’t wish that feeling on anyone.

Then, remembering that feeling, remembering that he was forced to miss out on more than the first year of his daughter’s life, that shadow of resentment came and obliterated the empathy.

Liam cleared his throat and looked at Imogen. “Thank you for bringing her,” he smiled. “I actually don’t have anything else on my schedule today, so would it be ok if you came back and got her a little later?”

“Of course,” Imogen nodded. “I’ll let Amara know.”

“Thank you.” Liam turned toward his door as he pulled his key from his pocket, looking at Sophia in his arm as he unlocked it. “Ready for some lunch?” he smiled as they disappeared inside.

****

Riley watched as Amara stared at her phone screen; she was watching the video she had taken of Sophia walking for the seventh time already as tears slid down her cheeks.

“You ok?” Riley asked, rubbing her back. It was a dumb question, but she didn’t know what else to say at that moment.

Amara simply nodded in response, unable to speak over the lump in her throat. She wiped her cheeks with the cuff of her sweatshirt as she started the video over again. Riley looked at Daniel, who was sitting on the other side of her, and the two shared a worried glance.

Amara’s tears were of both happiness and sadness. She was happy that Liam got to experience that milestone, elated even, knowing how much it had to have meant to him; she was happy to see Sophia so proud of herself when she made it to his arms. And she was sad because she hadn’t been there to witness it herself. She would say she was ok regardless, though, because she didn’t feel she had a right to say anything else, to be anything other than ok.

That had been her mindset for the last two weeks.

To say Amara was struggling would be an understatement, but when anyone would ask, her response had been the same each time. A silent nod or a spoken, “I’m fine.” She was trying to adjust to this new normal, knowing she needed to get used to splitting her time with Sophia. It felt as though she’d seen less and less of her since her first visit with Liam, and as difficult as that had been, she understood that he needed as much time with her as he could to build a relationship and bond. Just because she understood didn’t mean it was easy, though.

Nothing about any of this had been easy.

Amara didn’t talk about her longing as a mother to spend a full day with her child. She didn’t talk about the ache that filled her chest for nearly two weeks every time Riley, Daniel, or Imogen would walk out of the north wing with Sophia to take her to Liam. She didn’t talk about the tears she cried on some nights when rocking her to sleep a mere hour after she returned, only having enough time to give her a bath and read her a story before bed. She didn’t talk about any of it because she didn’t feel she had a right to. She truly wanted Liam to have this time with Sophia, whatever time he wanted and needed, no matter how hard it was on her. To say anything about her wants and needs felt selfish after everything she’d already done.

So, Amara would stick to her silent nods or her spoken words of “I’m fine” because it was both all and the least she could do. She knew she had no one to blame but herself for any of this, which was why she hadn’t tried to interfere in any way and had no intention of doing so. She’d gone out of her way to ensure Liam was able to see Sophia whenever he wanted, for as long as he wanted, and as much as possible … and she’d gone out of her way to ensure nothing tarnished that time for them by making sure he didn’t see or hear from her at all. It wasn’t easy because she missed him more than she could put into words. She wanted nothing more than to talk to him, to apologize more than she already had, to beg him to forgive her, but she didn’t blame him for hating her.

No matter how much Liam may have hated her … Amara hated herself more.

Their last conversation in Liam’s study, the words he spoke, his anger … the heartbroken look in his eyes over being forced to miss out on more than a year of his daughter’s life … it was all playing in Amara’s head on repeat. She could think of nothing else. The guilt seemed to worsen every day, looming over her like a cloud that only continued to get darker and darker.

When Daniel’s phone chimed with an incoming message, he pulled it from his pocket and glanced down at the screen. “I need to go check on something,” he said. Amara continued to watch the video as he met Riley’s gaze with a knowing look; she nodded in understanding.

****

After lunch, Liam sat with Sophia in her playroom inside his quarters; two weeks ago the room had been one he used for storage, but he had it cleaned out, painted, and filled with books and toys. Hearing a faint knock on the door to his quarters, Liam shouted for them to enter; he heard it open and then footsteps coming down the hall.

Daniel appeared in the doorway of the playroom a moment later as Liam glanced up. “Hello,” he nodded.

“Hello,” Liam said as he stood and shook his hand.

Daniel looked down at Sophia. “Hi, Soph!” he smiled. She grinned, lifting a stuffed lion in her hands to show him. “Nice lion,” he chuckled before looking back at Liam. “You wanted to see me?”

“Yeah, thanks for coming,” Liam said. “I wanted to know if you’d still be on board to be my press liaison for the time being?” Daniel raised his brows in surprise. “You really had my back with the whole divorce statement and didn’t once steer me wrong. My council is discussing plans on how to go about the news of Sophia once the time comes to put it out there, and I’d personally feel more comfortable with someone being a part of those plans who not only knows what they’re doing but would have Sophia’s best interest in mind. You don’t have to say yes. I’m not trying to put you in an uncomfortable position … I just thought I’d extend the offer …”

Daniel knew the “uncomfortable position” was referring to his friendship with Amara. He also knew she wouldn’t want him to turn down an opportunity like this and that she’d probably feel more comfortable having him on board for it as well. “Yeah, of course. I’d be happy to help.”

Liam let out a breath of relief. “Thank you. I appreciate it.”

“So … how’d the council take the news?” Daniel asked.

“Surprisingly well,” Liam answered. “They were fairly shocked, which was to be expected … but it went better than I thought it was going to.”

Just then, they both glanced over as Sophia pulled herself to stand; she turned toward them and with a toothy grin, started walking toward Daniel. “We are in so much trouble now.” He crouched down, lifting her into his arms once she made it to him. “You’re gonna be running marathons before we know it, kid,” he said as he tickled her belly.

Sophia clapped with a giggle. “Mama! Mama!”

“Yes, Mommy was so happy to see you on the go,” Daniel chuckled.

“Speaking of …” Liam began as Daniel set Sophia back down. “I saw Riley earlier and completely forgot to ask … but could you let Amara know that I need a copy of Sophia’s birth certificate? The council needs it … and they’re going to set up a paternity test as well.” When Daniel’s body tensed and he arched his brow, looking as though he was about to go on the defense for Amara, Liam held up his hands. “I have no doubts that she is mine. It’s just so they have the proof in case there are any questions from the outside once it’s made public.”

“Oh …” Daniel’s shoulders loosened. “That makes sense.” He nodded as he let out a breath. “I’ll let her know.”

*******

A couple of days later, Liam was in his study, looking over a stack of budget proposals from various duchies.

Hearing a knock on the door, Liam called for them to enter; a moment later, Rashad stepped inside, meeting his gaze as he glanced up from his papers. “I’m not interrupting anything, am I?”

“Not at all,” Liam said as he set his pen down. “What brings you by?”

“Amalas just got back to me. I kept the reason for you wanting to speak to her vague, but piqued her curiosity enough; she’s willing to hear you out. I told her for the sake of the conversation and keeping it under wraps, it would be better to do it virtually. We don’t need Bradshaw getting spooked by finding out she came here or you went there.”

Liam let out a breath. “When?”

“She’ll be calling any minute now.”

“What?” Liam’s eyes widened as he scrambled for his laptop.

“I know it’s short notice, but I couldn’t exactly tell her no when she said, ‘Let’s do this now.’” Rashad could tell Liam was visibly flustered as he positioned his laptop in front of him. “Just take a breath.”

Liam looked at him. “How did she seem when you spoke to her?”

“Curious as to why you’d be so eager to talk.”

Suddenly, an alert for an incoming video call popped up on the screen of his laptop. Liam let out a breath, trying to collect himself before answering. When her face appeared on the screen, he smiled. “Queen Amalas.”

“King Liam,” Amalas smiled in return. “I heard you wanted to have a chat?”

“You heard correctly,” Liam nodded.

“And do your new pals over in Auvernal approve of this conversation happening?”  

Liam tensed; he knew it was nothing more than her way of telling him she knew about the alliance, and that she didn’t realize the truth behind her jab. “They wouldn’t approve, no. And that’s actually the reason I wanted to speak with you.”

“So you snub me and my country for an alliance with them, but want to speak to me behind their backs?” Amalas asked with a smirk. “Interesting and ballsy.”

“Amalas, the alliance … I didn’t …” Liam sighed. “I didn’t have a choice. Bradshaw blackmailed me into it.”

Amalas’ eyes widened. “What could he possibly have to blackmail you with?”

Liam glanced up at Rashad, who gave an encouraging nod and gestured for him to continue. And so he did. He gave Amalas as brief of a summary as he could — his past with his old press liaison two years prior, Bradshaw finding out and managing to bring an unknowing Amara on board to try and sway his decision for the alliance, his refusal to agree with the betrothal terms, and Bradshaw’s threat when he went to meet with him that left his hands tied.

When he finished, Amalas stared at him through the screen for several quiet moments before he finally broke the silence. “The past couple of weeks, my council and I have been looking for a loophole … something — anything — to get out of it, but we’ve had no luck.”

“I was wondering why you hadn’t made any kind of announcement yet,” Amalas said. “Now I know … because you’ve been stalling.” He nodded. “So you … what? Think I’ll have information that I’d be willing to let you use?”

“I was hoping …”

Amalas smirked. “And you’re aware that anything I might have to offer would come with a price, correct?”

Liam sighed, shaking his head as he dropped his gaze from the screen for a moment before looking at her again. “Amalas … I need your help. Please.”

There was a desperation in the Cordonian King’s voice that the Queen of Monterisso wasn’t expecting to hear. That paired with his willingness to be so forthcoming with her about the blackmail led Amalas to believe that something was being left out. There was something that caused Liam to drop his usually stoic veil, something that told her that the stakes were much higher for him than he was leading on. And if she helped, it could potentially work out in her favor as much as it did his.

The truth that Amalas wouldn’t admit out loud was that Monterisso needed Cordonia just as much as they seemed to need them at the moment. If this was a way to get into their good graces while simultaneously knocking Auvernal to the bottom of the totem pole, she supposed she could consider it a win-win.

Amalas let out a breath. “I can’t promise anything …”

Liam perked up at her words. “Does that mean—”

“I’ll try,” Amalas interrupted. “Again, I’m not making any promises. You need something bigger than what they had on you, which isn’t anything I have at the moment.”

“And … how likely do you think it is that we’ll find something of use?”

“It’s not going to be easy. The bad news is that they’re pretty good at hiding their skeletons. The good news is that everyone has them hidden somewhere. And we’ll discuss what’s in this for me at a later time.” Liam nodded hesitantly; it couldn’t be worse than it already was … at least, he hoped it couldn’t. “I’ll be in touch.”

When the screen went black, Liam propped his elbows on his desk and covered his face with his hands as he let out a breath he didn’t realize he was holding.

Rashad could see the toll that this was taking on Liam, on top of everything else he was dealing with. He seemed more and more stressed and on edge with each passing day. “Well … I’d call that a win. If anyone can find something, it’s her.”

Liam dropped his hands away from his face. “Let’s hope.”

*******

A week later, Liam walked to his study after arriving back from the capitol where he’d made an appearance at a children’s event that the library in the square was hosting to promote summer reading.

Once inside his study, Liam scanned a list of messages he needed to return. He walked to his desk, planning to check everything off that list, wanting any work out of the way so he could enjoy his weekend. He’d barely sat down before a knock came on his study door.

Liam called for them to enter, and Rashad stepped inside a moment later. “Hello,” he said as he stood and walked around his desk to greet him.

“Hello,” Rashad replied as he shook his hand. “I’ve got an update from Amalas.” Liam looked at him with a hopeful glint in his eyes. “She hasn’t found anything of use yet,” he quickly added, watching his friend’s shoulders slightly slump. “However … she wants to do a little covert mission …”

“What?” Liam’s eyes widened.

“Auvernal is hosting their Fleet Week this week,” Rashad began to explain. “They’re having an event at the palace in a few days … some big show for Bradshaw to show off his military equipment. Amalas called while you were in the capitol, saying that Bradshaw called to extend a last-minute invite to her, and she accepted in hopes of maybe being able to look for some information. Olivia was there when she called and offered to help if she could. Five minutes later, your assistant came to me, saying that Bradshaw was on the line, demanding to speak to someone because you weren’t here and it was important, so I took the call. He wanted to extend the same last-minute invite to you, no doubt to try and blindside you, to try and announce the alliance in front of all the guests and press that will be there. I lied and told him you had a meeting that day that you absolutely could not miss, but suggested that one of our council members go on your behalf to show our support.”

“Which will be Olivia …”

“Right you are,” Rashad chuckled.

“I don’t know if I like this idea,” Liam shook his head. “I don’t want them doing anything that could put a target on their backs — or worse, get them hurt — if they’re caught.”

“Please,” Rashad scoffed. “It’s Amalas and Olivia.”  

Liam sighed. “And they’re both ok with doing this?”

“Yes, more than ok and more than willing. You know how Olivia is with this kind of stuff. She’ll be discreet and careful. And I do not doubt that Amalas will be the same.” Rashad could still see a hint of worry in Liam’s expression. “It’s our best shot, Li. They’ll be inside the snake’s nest. There’s no other place they’re more likely to find something buried than there.”

Liam popped his neck before rubbing his temples, trying to release some of his stress. “Ok,” he said quietly. “Just keep me updated on the plan.”

“I will,” Rashad nodded with a smile. He turned for the door. “Oh, I almost forgot,” he said as he turned back. “I saw Daniel on my way up here, and he asked if I could drop this off to you.” He handed him a manila envelope.

Liam took it, flipping it over to find both sides blank. “Thanks.”

When Rashad left, Liam walked back to his desk and sat down as he opened the manila envelope. He slipped his hand inside and pulled out a piece of paper, reading the top line. The City of New York. Vital Records Certificate. Certification of Birth.

Liam let out a breath as he leaned back in his chair. At first, his eyes immediately dropped down to the bottom where the parents’ information was listed. Father’s Full Name: Liam Alexander Rys. She’d left his birthplace and date of birth blank; he assumed it was to help keep his identity under wraps. His eyes then shifted up. Place of Birth: New York City, Borough of Manhattan. Date of Child’s Birth: May 7th, 2022. Hour: 11:07 am.

When Liam’s eyes shifted up one more line, he swore he felt his heart stop. Full Name of Child: Sophia Eleanor Onasis. He let out a shuddered breath as he stared at the name through his blurring vision. Sophia Eleanor. Eleanor. Amara had given her his mother’s name; she remembered and she gave it to her … she gave her something of his. He leaned forward, setting the paper down before covering his mouth with his trembling hand as he continued to stare at it, trying and failing to take in a proper breath as he let it sink in.

Liam couldn’t stop the swell of emotions he felt at that moment; he bowed his head, digging the heels of his palms into his eyes as he broke down.

****

An hour after passing off the birth certificate to Rashad to give to Liam, Daniel walked down the corridor toward the King’s study, wanting to ensure he received the document; he’d been on his way to a meeting with a few of Liam’s advisors regarding the press and didn’t have time to drop it off himself.

When he reached the door, Daniel knocked, hearing a faint command for him to enter. He stepped inside a moment later to find Liam sitting at his desk, staring down at the birth certificate in almost a daze with red-rimmed eyes. “Hey …” Liam only gave a slight nod in response. “I see you got the certificate,” he said as he shut the door behind him. Again, he nodded. “Everything ok?”

Liam remained silent for a few moments, his brows furrowing in deep thought; he’d finally got himself to calm down but could feel those emotions stirring again. “I’m holding this in my hand … but it still just feels … surreal.” His eyes finally flickered up to meet Daniel’s gaze as he blinked to rid the sting from his eyes. “She gave her my mother’s name,” his voice cracked before he cleared his throat.

Daniel smiled ruefully with a nod. “She did. It was the only thing she was certain about when it came to naming her.”

Liam stared at him. “She said you were there when Sophia was born.” Daniel nodded. “What do you mean it was the only thing she was certain of?”

“She didn’t have a name picked out,” Daniel said as he sat in the chair on the other side of his desk. “She said it had to go with Eleanor. When I asked why Eleanor, she said it was your mother’s name … and she wanted her to have it because she thought it was something you’d want …”

“I’m surprised she didn’t have one picked out. She’s usually methodical when it comes to stuff like that … always prepared.”

Daniel scoffed. “Amara was anything but prepared. If I’m being candid … her entire pregnancy was a shitshow.”

Liam’s brows furrowed. “She told me the pregnancy was fine.”

“Did she now?” Daniel shook his head. “Typical.”

“What do you mean?”

“Medically, the pregnancy was great. But Amara was … she was detached. From everything and everyone. She did everything she was supposed to; she took her vitamins every day, she watched what she ate, she went to all of her appointments … but it’s like she wasn’t really there. When people would ask her about the pregnancy, she’d brush them off, giving as vague of an answer as she could before changing the subject. She wouldn’t even look at the screen during her ultrasounds. She’d done nothing to prepare. Absolutely nothing. She hadn’t bought a damn thing. No clothes. No bottles. No essentials. Nothing for the nursery; hell, she didn’t even have a room for the nursery cleaned out. She was around seven months along when I finally had enough…”

“What did you do?”

“I showed up at her apartment one day with a bunch of paint and told her to pick a color. Then I told her I was coming with her to her appointment later that day because she’d always refused to let me come any other time. And then I took her to a boutique and told her to pick things out. Even after that, though … it was like she still wasn’t there. Once we had the nursery set up, she couldn’t look at it without breaking down, so she eventually just shut the door and kept it shut until the day she brought Sophia home.”

“She didn’t tell me any of this,” Liam said quietly. “She didn’t … she didn’t tell me she struggled that much.”

“Of course she didn’t. She doesn’t want pity, especially concerning this and you. She feels so guilty, Liam. Even now … she’s struggling, but she won’t say a word about it.”

Liam couldn’t hide the concern in his eyes. “What do you mean she’s struggling now?”

Daniel sighed. “Her guilt … it’s eating away at her. And because of that guilt, she hasn’t mentioned how hard of a time she’s probably having with all of this. I can’t imagine it’s been easy, and again, she’s not talking about it, but I can tell that not having spent much time with Sophia the last few weeks has been … difficult for her.”

Liam’s brows furrowed. “I’m not trying to take that away from her. If she wants to spend time with Sophia, all she has to do is say so.”

“She wants you to have as much time with her as you want so you can build that bond with her,” Daniel explained. “She feels like you deserve that time more than she does after what she did. So she won’t say anything … but I can see it in her eyes every time Sophia is gone. It’s like … she’s empty.”

Liam heaved a sigh. He’d spent every day with Sophia for nearly three weeks now, and truthfully, he hadn’t thought about what not seeing her as much was doing to Amara. He was still adjusting to his new role, but now that he’d formed that attachment to her like Amara had, he could understand how difficult this probably was on her. Her not interfering, not asking any questions when he wanted to see Sophia … it made more sense now.

“I’m not trying to monopolize her time,” Liam said.

“Amara wouldn’t see it like that. She probably sees it as giving you what she thinks you deserve … and it’s still probably not enough in her eyes. Knowing her, she more than likely sees it as the bare minimum, to be honest.”

“I was supposed to have Sophia tomorrow … but I think Amara should take the day to spend with her.”

Daniel shook his head. “If I tell her that, she’s going to know we had some sort of conversation …”

“So tell her something came up and I told you I wouldn’t be able to take her … until tomorrow night.” Liam looked at him. “I’d like to have her tomorrow night … to stay in my quarters with me.” Overnight was a big step, but one he thought he was ready for.

Daniel nodded. “I’ll tell her.”

*******

The following afternoon, Liam walked from his quarters to the terrace overlooking the gardens, wanting different scenery while looking over documents than from his usual spot on the balcony in his quarters. He’d been doing random tasks throughout the day, passing the time while he waited anxiously to have Sophia that evening.

When Liam stepped out onto the terrace, he paused when he heard a familiar voice coming from the gardens below. He quietly crept forward to the balustrade and peered down, spotting Amara in the grass with Sophia.

Amara laughed as Sophia wobbly chased after her, giggling the entire time. When Sophia reached her, Amara lifted her into her arms, praising her as she tickled her belly and smothered playful kisses on her cheek.

A faint smile tugged at the corner of Liam’s mouth as he leaned against the wall; he’d never seen Amara and Sophia together that way. The first and last time he saw them together was when she was standing in front of the elevator, looking horror-struck as she stared back at him the day he’d found out the truth. 

This … this was the other side Liam had yet to experience.

Watching them, their bond was obvious to Liam. The way Sophia smiled and laughed with her, the same way she started to with him, pulled on his heartstrings. He stifled a laugh when Sophia collided with Amara as she sat in the grass, feigning to be knocked over as Sophia belly laughed.

When Amara sat forward, she set Sophia in the grass in front of her, and her tiny hand reached for her mother’s phone that had slipped from her pocket. Amara pointed at the screen. “Who’s that?” Sophia answered with a babble of indistinguishable words. “Daddy. Can you say, Daddy?” Liam stiffened upon hearing her. “Dada.”

“Mama!” Sophia squealed.

“Daddy,” Amara chuckled. “Say Daddy, Soph. Dada.” She tapped her finger on the screen. “Sophia and … daddy.”

“Daaaa,” Sophia said before rolling it into a raspberry as she clapped her hands. “Pffftttt.”

Amara chuckled as she reached out, wiping the drool from her lip. “Come on, baby girl, say Daddy. You can do it. Da Da. Dada.”

Knowing Amara was taking this time that was supposed to be hers and trying to get Sophia to say his name … it did something, causing a pang in Liam’s chest. His eyes shifted from Sophia to Amara, noticing the way the afternoon sun brought out the golden strands of her brown hair and set a glow against her bronze skin.

As Amara sat in the grass with Sophia, who was over sitting and now pushing herself to stand, she had an odd sensation that someone was watching them.

Amara stood with her and lifted her head, glancing around before her eyes fell on the terrace. It was empty; there was no one there. She let out a soft breath as she turned back, following Sophia as she toddled further into the gardens.

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

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[kristinamae093]

Ghosted

Ghosted - I Finally See (Chapter Six)

Series Summary - Prince Liam fell for Riley Brooks hard and fast. A marriage filled with love and devotion was within his reach. But everything changed when she vanished just before the end of the social season. As everyone voices their concerns regarding her scandalous departure, a confession from an unlikely source turns Liam's world upside down and makes him question everything around him.

Book/Pairing - TRR - Liam x MC (Riley Brooks)

A/N1 - This AU starts right before the beginning of the engagement tour. There is a two-month lapse between the coronation and where we pick up, but we will stray from canon. Please excuse any errors found.

A/N2 - Huuuuuuugest of shout outs to @ao719, who helped me tweak this mood board a little bit (twice 🤣🥹😘)

Characters belong to Pixelberry

Rhonda led the three of them along the path to the west grounds. At one point, that is where all major events were held in Applewood. However, over the years, the Royal family decided it was best to move all festivities to the front of the estate, as it was bigger in acres and much closer to the main building.  

The area was then practically forgotten about. There was housing for some of the staff, a couple of sheds, and a few stray apple trees, but nothing else. Liam hadn't been on the west grounds specifically since he was a child and would play hide and seek with Leo out there. He always found the best spots to hide, Leo practically never found him. 

They followed until Rhonda stopped at an older, weathered shed toward the edge of the estate property. It appeared to be practically abandoned; the paint was chipping off the sides and the roof missed several shingles. It looked like a scene from a horror movie, and Liam felt his skin turn cold and raise with goosebumps as they approached the structure. 

Rhonda turned to face them. "This is the one..."

"Don't you dare go anywhere? Do you understand me?" Liam growled. 

Rhonda didn't say a word but nodded her head rapidly. She took a few steps away but stood where they could see her even after they entered the structure. 

Olivia glanced down and saw a padlock securing the doors closed. She reached out and grabbed it. "A lock? Seems like someone doesn't want us to find what's in there." 

"How are we gonna get it open?" Drake asked. 

Olivia laughed before she responded, "Oh, don’t you worry about that, you simpleton." and pulled a small dagger out of her sleeve. She leaned forward and started working the blade into the keyhole.

After a couple of minutes, Drake grew restless. "I know this may come as a surprise to you, but not everything is solved with knives." He huffed. 

Just as the words left his mouth, Olivia stood and turned to face him with a smirk on her face, lock in hand. "You were saying?" Drake shook his head and muttered a few obscenities under his breath. 

The trio stood and stared at the doors for what felt like an eternity; nobody wanted to make that first move. After so long with so many unanswered questions, the anxiety of what could lie ahead was felt heavily by all three. 

Finally, Olivia reached for the door and swung it open. They were indeed looking at all of Riley's stuff; all her clothes, hygiene products, knick-knacks, everything was piled directly in front of them. Olivia entered first and started searching for anything of relevance. Drake followed close behind, but Liam remained cemented in place with his mouth agape. 

Liam convinced himself that Riley intentionally left because she took all of her belongings with her. To him, that meant her departure was premeditated; she had to have thought enough in advance to have her things packed so she could make her escape. 

But as Liam stood in front of the open shed, he confirmed the gut feeling he had been ignoring all along was validated. Any and every bit of resolve he had left crumpled as he took those first steps into the structure before him. 

Liam entered slowly and looked around. He stopped when he saw Riley’s ceramic cardinal and picked it up. She said it reminded her of her grandfather who had passed away, so having it meant he was exploring new horizons with her. She had the trinket in her pocket during the Regatta, Liam recalled her telling him her grandfather had a love of boats, so she had to bring it with her for the day. He held it in his hands for a moment before he gently squeezed it, and placed it back where he found it. 

Liam continued his search and stumbled upon her tortilla blanket; he smiled as he picked it up and held it to his nose to inhale a deep breath. He hadn’t understood why Riley had such a random item, but he didn’t dare question her. The one time he saw her wrapped up in it was one of the most beautiful things he had ever seen. 

Liam went to her door early one morning to escort her to breakfast, however, Riley wasn't expecting him. He knew it wasn't proper, but he couldn't help himself; he wanted to spend any and every spare second he had with her. 

When Riley answered the door, she was wrapped in her blanket with her glasses sliding down her nose; her hair sat piled on the top of her head in a messy bun, although it appeared to have shifted more to the side during her slumber. The smile she gave as her cheeks flushed completely stunned Liam where he stood. She looked immaculate in all the ball gowns with her makeup and hair perfectly done, but she had never been more beautiful to him than at that moment.

Liam shook his head in an attempt to steady himself but could feel his eyes burn with unshed tears. He quickly put the blanket down where he found it and continued. 

As Liam resumed his trek, he stumbled upon a book or binder of some sort. The front and back surfaces were completely covered in different multicolored stickers. He opened it and realized it was not a binder, but a photo album. 

Liam looked through the pictures with trembling hands. He saw photos of Riley as a baby with her parents, holidays, birthdays, sports, prom; practically her entire life in images. Toward the end, he found laminated funeral programs for family members Riley had lost. 

Liam closed the album and wiped the tears from his cheeks that had unwillingly fallen. He knew Riley was a very sentimental person and would not have left this stuff behind purposefully. These things meant the world to Riley; her most cherished possessions, the things she was most proud of. It was one of the things that made Liam fall in love with her; in his world, all everyone cared about was power and prestige, but she cared about moments and making memories. He knew without a shadow of a doubt, she would not have left these things behind of her own volition. 

Liam began to feel insurmountable rage, but couldn't ignore the all-consuming guilt that engulfed his conscience for turning a blind eye; especially knowing she could have been hurt before she left, or, that could have been why she left. More than that, he hadn't believed in Riley the way his friends did. He needed to be convinced to believe in her. 

Drake had been observing Liam look through the photo album. In their many years together, he thought he had seen Liam at his lowest, but the man Drake was looking at now was unrecognizable; the defeat and guilt he felt were clear as day. When Drake saw him wipe his cheeks, his heart broke even more for his friend than it had been the past two months. 

Drake approached Liam and placed a comforting hand on his shoulder. "I'm sorry, Liam…" He softly spoke. 

Liam sniffed. "What for? I should be thanking you. Without your persistence, I never would have opened my eyes…" He trailed off and shook his head as more tears unwillingly fell. 

"Don't do that, Liam." Liam looked at Drake with a confused expression. "I can see it written all over your face. You're feeling guilty. You can't do that to yourself, man. I know it's hard, but you have to look forward. Don't dwell on what's already happened."

Liam scoffed. "That's easy for you to say. You didn't need to be convinced to believe in her. You didn't turn your back on her like I did..."

"If I was in your shoes I probably would have reacted the same way. You thought she abandoned you! I'd be devastated too! Then to see her in the tabloids two days later, I'd've been fucking livid! You might be a King, but first and foremost you're a man. You are allowed to make mistakes!" Drake emphasized. 

"But this isn't just any mistake! This is the love of my life, and I didn't see through this sooner?"

Drake sighed. "When me and Olivia told Max, she had to bring us back because we were doing the same shit you're doing right now." He shook his head. "I know it's hard, but you can't dwell on what you did or didn't do back then. We won't get anything solved that way. We gotta focus on what we do now."

Liam shook his head. "I just can't believe this is happening…"

"I know. It's a lot to take in. But I'm glad you're with us now." Drake smiled. 

"I swear to you, I will not rest until I find the truth. Someone is going to answer for this," Liam responded with a determined expression. 

Drake embraced Liam, "I know." and patted him on the back. 

"Thank you for being a great friend, Drake. I’d like to apologize for losing my temper with you earlier." Liam said as he returned the embrace. 

"Don't worry 'bout it. I'm just so fuckin' happy you're finally listening to yourself." Drake spoke as he stepped away. 

“Guys?” Olivia’s voice rang out from the other side of the shed, where they had not ventured to yet. 

Drake and Liam approached her and noticed her troubled expression. She was crouched on the ground as she searched through a tote that was filled with Riley's things. Olivia stood and held a black trash bag in her hands. She reached in and pulled out a balled-up piece of fabric, carefully unfolded it, and spread it open wide for Liam and Drake to see. 

Liam took the fabric from her hands. He realized he was holding a dress, but it was ripped and torn in multiple places. Some portions dangled, others completely detached. He knew he recognized it, but couldn't precisely place where he had seen it. 

The dress was white with a pink flower pattern, about mid-thigh length. It had ruffles at the bottom and a silky heart neckline at the top, which is where the tears appeared to be more prominent as well as the fabric being noticeably stretched out. The midsection had a brown leather belt sewn into its design, but portions of that had been shredded as well. 

Olivia noticed a specific area of the dress that was stuck together. She tentatively reached her hand out and grabbed the fabric and pulled, which separated the garment and revealed a large reddish-brown stain. It covered a portion of the back just above the ribs, and small spots on other areas of the dress. She reached out and lightly ran her finger over the large spot and felt that the surface was dry and hardened.

She grabbed the dress from Liam’s hands and spun it around to show him and Drake, both of their eyes widening within seconds. 

As Liam stood and stared at the back of what was left of the dress, his heart suddenly plummeted to the depths of his stomach as he realized where he recognized it from. “That’s…” He swallowed thickly. “that’s the dress she was wearing… at the jamboree…” He whispered. 

Drake bent down and picked up the bag. He opened it and saw other small pieces of the dress and even the stockings she had worn with it that night. He closed the bag and handed it to Liam with a heartbroken expression. 

Liam took the bag from Drake’s hands and peeked inside. He already knew what was in there, but looking confirmed it. Although they were unsure as to whose blood was on the dress, they could only conclude it was Riley's. 

Liam suddenly realized the maid who led them there, Rhonda, was still outside. He snatched the dress from Olivia’s hands and threw it into the bag. He turned and strode with deadly intent to where she stood outside the shed. 

Liam practically threw the bag at Rhonda, “Have you ever seen this?” He growled. 

She looked into the bag with wide eyes, “I– I– ” she stammered.

“ANSWER ME!" Liam yelled as he once again stood over the much smaller woman. 

"I– I found it on the floor. I don't know where it came from! All I did was throw it into the bag!" 

"So you find a bloodied dress, and instead of immediately reporting it to someone, anyone, you just throw it into a bag like it's nothing?!" 

Rhonda frantically shook her head. "I didn't know-" 

"BULLSHIT! It's blood! Do you really need a fucking technical course to tell you to use your brain?!" Liam yelled. 

Bastien heard Liam from his position a little ways away, and quickly rounded the corner and approached him with a curious expression. "Is there a problem here, sir?" 

"YES, there's a problem here! Look inside there, do you see that?!" Liam hollered without once breaking his attention away from the woman in front of him.  

Bastien glanced past Drake to the shed behind him. He briefly met eyes with Olivia, who remained inside searching. She arched her brow as she met his gaze, but he quickly turned back to Liam.  "What would you like me to do, sir?"

"She knows something…" Liam growled as he stalked toward the woman little by little. 

Liam stood to his entire height and squared his shoulders. He looked down at Rhonda over his nose; he puffed his chest out, only slightly, but enough to project his dominance over her. “I am giving you one last opportunity to tell me the truth. Failure to do so will result in you being placed in the custody of the Cordonian Royal Guard until you feel it’s acceptable to tell your King the truth.” He demanded in an authoritative voice.

Rhonda audibly inhaled a sharp breath, almost as if she had been hit in the gut. Her eyes welled with tears as she held her trembling hands together. “Your Majesty I swear to you on my children’s lives I know nothing else!” She dropped to her knees in front of him. “Please don’t take me from my kids! Please! I’ve told you everything I know! I'm so sorry I never said anything! P–please!” She cried as she lost herself in a fit of hysterics. 

Liam stood over Rhonda while she sobbed, his mind reeling. He wanted to believe she knew more, but the more he thought about it, the more he realized whoever did this didn't let this lowly maid in on their master scheme; she was only a pawn. The likelihood of her knowing more than she had already told them was low, and she had given them the biggest lead yet in showing them where all of Riley's things were. 

Even though he remained enraged, Liam crouched down in front of the woman and spoke in the softest tone he could force. "I will not take you from your children. I apologize for making barbaric threats to you. However, I need to make sure there's nothing else that you could tell us about that night."

Rhonda sniffed. "N–no, sir. I'm sorry I didn't say anything sooner but I was worried about getting in trouble for snooping because I need this job to support my kids and–"

Liam held up his hand to stop her rambling. "For future reference, if you believe a guest could have been injured you are to call my office immediately and report it to me. Am I clear?"

"Y–yes sir." 

"This is a delicate situation, and your utmost discretion is required. You can not tell anyone we were here, or searching Lady Riley's things. Do you understand?" Rhonda quickly nodded her head. Liam stood from his crouched position and reached down and extended a hand to help her stand. "You are free to go, but please, if you remember anything else or see something suspicious, call my office."

"Shall I escort her back to the estate, sir? I'd like to ask her a few questions as well." Bastien asked, his eyes never once leaving the maid.

"Of course, Bastien. Thank you."

As Bastien led Rhonda away, Olivia reemerged from the shed. She found something that piqued her interest; it was a long shot, but she hoped perhaps her sudden hunch could poke yet another hole in the ordeal. 

Olivia approached Liam, who stood beside Drake with his hands balled at his sides watching Bastien and the maid fade away. She cleared her throat and the two turned to face her; she handed Liam a blank envelope and said nothing. 

He opened it and quickly scammed its contents; it was a letter from Riley to her grandma. She had told Liam about her letters home because her grandma wasn't smart with technology and didn't have a cell phone, but Riley wanted to stay in contact. There was no date, although it had been signed at the end. The text held no relevant information, aside from Riley retelling certain portions of her time in Cordonia, the last being their trip to the ancient ruins. 

As he reached the bottom paragraph, he felt like his already dismembered heart was ripped from the confines of his chest and tossed onto the ground in front of him, leaving it for anyone and everyone to openly stomp on.

I really don't know if I would make a good Queen, but I know I can do anything with Liam by my side. He’s the most amazing person I've ever met and makes me feel like I could do anything, and I would do anything to be with him. It might seem fast, but I can feel it in the depths of my soul; he is my forever. 

Liam took a deep, shaky breath to keep himself calm. The guilt was piling up, but he refused to let that dam open, not now. Their next move had to be calculated and precise, and he was more determined than ever to find her and ensure her safety. "Why are you showing me this?" He quietly asked Olivia.  

"I can't confirm, because I didn't see the note that was left in her room, but I know both of you did. So I just wanted to ask, does the handwriting match?" 

Liam took another good look at the paper; the one left in her room was short, so there was hardly anything to compare. Looking at this script in his hands, a few things did stand out. 

"The s's are different, and the r's as well." Liam pointed to the paper. "On this, every single one has some kind of a swirl on it, not to mention its continuous cursive. The one left in her room was just plain print writing."

"And this one is signed Riley instead of R," Drake added.

"Do you still have that original letter?" Olivia asked. 

"I… don't." Liam looked away from them and rubbed the back of his neck. "I, uh… I couldn't stand to have it anymore. I told Bastien to dispose of it…."

Olivia arched her brow. "I take it you did the same with her phone?" Once again, Liam avoided eye contact but subtly nodded his head. She felt her irritation rise at Liam's stupid decisions while in his state of denial, but opted to keep her comments within; even though he was fighting to keep it hidden, Olivia could tell he was already feeling the effects of his refusal to see the truth. "Well, we should at least check with him and see if he still has them; we can compare the letters and see if there's a chance they match." She sighed.  "Other than that, what's our plan?" 

Liam was quiet for a long moment. His mind raced as he tried desperately to figure out where to go from here. They didn't have a lead as to who could have been responsible or any information regarding the scandal. The most evident thing to be found was the chilling revelation that someone hurt Riley in some way and a potentially falsified letter, otherwise, they had no solid leads. 

Liam ran his hand down his face before he responded, "To start, I'll ask Bastien if he happened to keep those things. Otherwise, we need to begin a search for Tariq and Riley. Since the person in that photo you showed me can't be identified, they're the only two who know what actually happened. I'll have Bastien begin at once."

"The time I spent investigating by myself I tried to locate Tariq to question him, but he's gone." 

"I'll have Bastien double-check, just to make sure he hasn't gotten sloppy and left a trace somewhere."

"Are you thinking Tariq did all this?" Drake asked. 

"At this moment, no. We've known Tariq most of our lives and we all know he's not smart enough to do this." Drake and Olivia nodded their heads in agreement. “I have a feeling he could have been used in achieving someone else’s agenda, but as to who could be responsible, I don’t have a clue.” 

"What do you think their ultimate plan was?"

Olivia snickered. "I shouldn’t be surprised you can't figure it out, considering your brain is the size of a walnut." 

"Oh yeah? Enlighten us."

"Gladly," Olivia smirked. "Liam clearly wanted to pick Riley, that was no secret. Since Liam and I have been friends since we were children, I was obviously the second choice." She rolled her eyes but continued. "So whoever this person is formulated a plan to eliminate the two of us, leaving only Madeleine."

"There were other suitors." Drake retorted. 

"Oh, please." Olivia scoffed.  "Madeleine was technically the most prepared beforehand, the others weren't even in the contest." 

"But why go through all this, though?" Drake motioned to the shed. 

"I don't actually have any idea why her things are stored here, yet. Otherwise, I can only assume they wanted to push the idea that Riley left to be with Tariq. First, remove her from the situation. Next, let Liam sit and stew for a few days contemplating why she left. Lastly, release a scandal; let everyone assume she was a harlot being swept away by another."

"And I played right into it, just like they knew I would," Liam growled as he shook his head. "It was important they cemented the theory because whoever did this knew I would continue looking for her without the scandal. They needed to give me a reason to abandon that search, despite all the signs, and I did…"  Liam looked away and forcefully tensed his jaw. 

"I could be wrong, Liam… We really don't know much, yet." Olivia said in a surprisingly tender voice. 

Liam sighed. "For now perhaps it's best if we lock this back up and reconvene after the Apple Banquet. That will give Bastien a day or so to start the search; we can see where we stand then?" 

Drake and Olivia nodded, but Drake needed to ask Liam a question that had popped into his mind whilst they searched the shed and wouldn't leave. "Hey, Li?" 

"Hm?" 

"...What about the tour?" 

Liam remained silent for a moment before he quietly answered. "I know it may not make sense to either of you, but the tour has to continue. First, I feel it will make investigating this easier. Clearly, something happened that night, but everything must go on as planned to avoid raising suspicion. Second…" He trailed off and looked away from Drake's curious gaze. "If we can't prove someone plotted to get Madeleine on the throne, I will have to go through with the wedding. There is nothing I can do about that, aside from abdicating." 

Despite the seriousness of the situation, Olivia howled with laughter, which earned her a steely glare from Liam and a curious one from Drake. "Liam, you're the fucking King. You act as if you answer to all these people, but they answer to you. You're the one calling the shots, not them! If you don't want to marry her, then don't."

"I wish it were that simple, Olivia, but it's not. I have to take a Queen! Stability, above all–"

"Oh, my God!" Olivia exclaimed. "Am I talking to fucking Constantine or Liam?" 

Liam could only stare at her with a stunned expression. Drake, however, had to hide his laugh with a cough; he had thought that same exact thing every time he heard Liam utter that statement.

Olivia continued. "I'm not trying to be insensitive, because I understand you want to do what's best for the country. But marrying Madeleine is not what's best for you or Cordonia." 

Liam remained silent. Drake stepped forward after a moment and placed a hand on Liam’s shoulder. "You don't have to decide right now, just think about it, okay?" 

Liam could only nod his head, as his mind refused to form a coherent sentence. After everything that had revealed itself that day, nothing made sense. He quickly dipped back inside the shed and grabbed Riley's blanket, cardinal, and photo album. Drake and Olivia gave him a curious glance as he emerged from the shed with the items, but he didn't care; he wanted to take these things with him so he could feel close to her again, and hopefully return them if he could ever find her. 

Olivia placed the bag with the dress back inside the tote where she found it and secured the lock back in place; she slipped Riley's letter into her pocket for safekeeping, hoping and praying Bastien kept the one left in her room to compare.

The trio made their way back to the main estate as the sun was setting on the horizon. All three's minds were overflowing with questions, assumptions, accusations, and a wide variety of scenarios, all of which revolved around one thing: what happened to Riley Brooks? 

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[angelasscribbles]

Cordonian Royal Family (A Bad Romance Extra)

I wanted to share these images because they're fabulous. I didn't make most of them, I suck at these things, but I love them and felt like they should be seen by others. Of course, me being me, I wanted to give information about each character but if I'm doing that, then it needs to read like an article in the Cordonian Star so here we are. Enjoy! The article is under the cut.

These images were all generated by the AI art app Wonder. For anyone interested, you may see my AI art disclaimer here.

It’s been one year since the death of His Royal Majesty Constantine Arthur Augustus Hector Rys in an unfortunate ceiling collapse at the palace just days before the current king announced his engagement to the queen.

King Constantine was married three times, sired two sons, and fostered three other children. Here is a look at the royal family today.

Photos by Ana De Luca.

His Royal Majesty Liam Nicolai Ulysses Augustus Rys

King of Cordonian, Duke of Stormholt, Duke of Bellmede, Duke of Valtoria, Earl of Alriel, Earl of Ennan, Earl of Lykos, Baron of Throngate, Lord of the Isles and Commander in Chief of the Cordonian Royal Forces.

From Spare to Heir. Never meant for the throne, this second-born son of royalty was thrust into the role of leader when his older brother abdicated. Many believe he was always more temperamentally suited for the role. Indeed, after a rocky start, Cordonia has thrived under his leadership.

Tied romantically to only a small number of women in his youth, (and one alleged man), King Liam’s younger years were as devoid of scandal and impropriety as his brother’s were full of them. He received good marks at the prestigious, elite Wellingford Academy and later Epton College.

He managed to stay out of the spotlight for the most part until his eventful social season. Marrying a commoner and a foreigner, changing the laws of succession for his children, and legalizing gay marriage, he has a track record as a progressive and is viewed favorably by the majority of Cordonians.

Her Royal Majesty Riley Catherine Brooks Rys

Queen of Cordonian, Duchess of Stormholt, Duchess of Bellmede, Duchess of Valtoria, Countess of Alriel, Countess of Ennan, Countess of Lykos, Baroness of Throngate, Lady of the Isles and Champion of the Realm.

Rumored to have had a contentious relationship with the late king, this last-minute addition to the present king’s social season was a long shot. As an American and a commoner, she reportedly was not King Constantine’s first, or even second, choice for his son.

Always King Liam’s favorite, however, she was a front-runner from the moment she set foot on Cordonian soil, her beauty, charm, and grace captivating the nation. Meeting at a bar in New York where she was his waitress, their whirlwind romance seemingly ended in scandal, accusations of infidelity, and the king’s engagement to another woman.

Their love endured despite the obstacles and in an astonishing turn of events, not only was her name cleared, but the king made a move as historically unprecedented as it was shocking, breaking a council-approved political engagement and marrying for love.

Prince Leonardo Tiberius Constantine Fabian Rys

Prince of Cordonia, Duke of Abanthus, Earl of Ebrimel, Baron of Auverneen.

Born into privilege and wealth, he threw it all away in what many consider a selfish and short-sighted move led by the vagaries and hubris of youth. Other interpretations range from the young prince simply recognizing that his brother was better suited to rule; to unsubstantiated rumors that he was pressured into stepping down by his father.

Prince Leo bounced around between elite boarding schools, both domestic and abroad before making barely passable marks at Epton College. Dubbed by the media as the Playboy Prince of the Mediterranean, he has been romantically linked to the likes of Olivia Nevrakis, Duchess of Lythikos, Princess Margot of Auvernall, and American actress Victoria Fontaine.

Abdicating both as Crown Prince of Cordonian and Duke of Stormholt, he retains the title of Prince as well as holding the titles Duke of Abanthus, Earl of Ebrimel, and Baron of Auverneen while living abroad. The Playboy Prince is still unattached.

Captain Drake Nolan Walker

Lord Commander of the Queen’s Guard, Knight Protector of the Realm.

Born to commoners, he and his sister were taken in and raised by the royal family after his father’s death in service to the crown. Having lived in the palace since the age of six, he became a ward of the crown at age fourteen and received the same basic upbringing and education as the princes.

Unlike the princes, he dedicated his life to military service, later following in his father’s footsteps by transferring to the Royal Guard. During King Liam’s social season, Captain Walker was charged with killing a man. All charges were eventually dropped, and he was exonerated when it came out that he was acting undercover on the king’s orders as a de facto member of Queen Riley’s security detail.

He currently serves the crown as captain of the Queen’s Guard, lives at the palace, remains close friends with the king, and is by all accounts deeply devoted to the queen.

Her Grace Savannah Evangeline Walker Beaumont

Duchess of Ramsford.

Like her brother, the duchess became a ward of the crown after the death of her father when she was twelve years old. She retained the title of Lady until the advent of her marriage to the Duke of Ramsford, Bertrand Beaumont, raised her status to duchess.

Scandal rocked Duchy Ramsford when it was revealed that the duchess had a child out of wedlock. She left Cordonia, taking the heir to Ramsford with her. She lived abroad for a year before returning and reuniting with the duke. They were married in an elaborate ceremony a few months after her return.

Unidentified sources close to the couple report the marriage is strained and often rocky.

His Grace Bertrand Atticus Beaumont

Duke of Ramsford, Leader of the House of Lords, Lord Keeper of the Privy Seal.

Taking on the role of Duke at a young age, he, along with the rest of the world, was shocked by the return of his presumed dead father, the late Duke Barthelemy Beaumont. His Grace relinquished control of the duchy to his father only to pick up the mantle again a few months later when the late Duke of Ramsford was killed in a head-on collision on his way home from a meeting at the palace.

He currently serves in the House of Lords as The Lord Leader, a position he has held for the last five years.

His ties to the monarchy are many and varied. His marriage to Savannah Walker made him a de facto member of the royal family, as did making the queen an official member of House Beaumont as part of his sponsorship of her during the king’s social season. His younger brother, Lord Maxwell Beaumont serves as the queen's top advisor and personal assistant. Prince Leo is a close friend, was the best man at his wedding, and is godfather to his son.

Lord Barthelemy Jackson Beaumont

Future Duke of Ramsford.

As the only child of the Duke and Duchess of Ramsford, young Lord Barthelemy is the heir to the duchy, nephew to the Lord Commander of the Queen’s Guard Captain Drake Walker, and to the queen’s personal assistant, Lord Maxwell Beaumont, has Prince Leo as a godfather and is treated as a grandchild by the queen mother.  

Her Grace Olivia Vanderwall Nevrakis

Duchess of Lythikos, Counsellor of State.

Also a ward of the crown, Duchess Olivia Nevrakis lost her parents in a tragic car accident when she was five years old. The late Queen Eleanor sent for her, and she was raised and educated at the palace, taking over control of Duchy Lythikos from her aunt at the age of sixteen.

Lythikos has thrived under her leadership, and she is beloved by the people. A suitor in King Liam’s social season, she has also been romantically linked to his brother, Prince Leo. Sources close to the duchess report that her participation in the social season was out of courtesy and duty as she and the king have always enjoyed a close friendship, but nothing more.

She currently resides at Lykos Keep, sits on the king’s small council, and divides her time between Lythikos and the capital.

Her Royal Majesty Regina Beatrice Amaranth Rys

Queen Mother, Dowager Duchess of Stormholt, Countess of Loutreo.

Born in Krona, her father was the younger brother of the late Duke, Karolos Amaranth. The current Duchess of Krona, Adelaide Amaranth, is her cousin. A countess in her own right, she became queen when she married King Constantine after a lengthy courtship.

She was the late king’s third wife. Marrying later in life, she had no biological children of her own but was instrumental in the upbringing of both her stepsons and the other three children entrusted to the monarchs’ care.

Now a widow, the queen mother continues to live at the palace, advises the queen, and works with the various charities she has championed over the years, notably Hope Haven a nationwide organization that works with homeless youth, and The Empowerment Zone a nonprofit helping single mothers. 

Her Royal Highness Eleanor Elizabeth Hana Olivia Rys

Crown Princess of Cordonia.

Born just six days ago, Cordonia’s newest princess has already captivated the hearts of the nation. The king and queen have retreated to the queen’s estate in Valtoria while they adjust to new parenthood, taking with them, among others, the queen's personal assistant, Lord Maxwell Beaumont. No nannies are yet in residence, but Duchess Hana Lee, the queen’s best friend and official Master of the Household, is.

This exclusive photo, which originally appeared in The Cordonian Star yesterday, is the only public photograph of the crown princess, who was named after her grandmother, the late Queen Eleanor.  

[dcbbw]

Catch and Release

I’m back, Tumblr! Unsure if anyone even realized I was gone, but I have missed sharing stories with you guys. I am slowly easing my way back into writing on a somewhat semi-regular basis; currently working on a couple of items on my WIP Wishlist, and Stormholt.

First up is a story that is my “hold my beer” response to a recent conversation I had with @ao719 about how Liam would never be a cold-hearted asshole EVER, even in the face of betrayal. This is a rewrite of the Drake and candles scene during the Homecoming Ball, sans assassins.

This is a one-shot, but already toying with an alternate version ….

THANK YOU to all who read this over in parts and pieces! The key smashes and follow-up questions reminded me why I love writing, and sharing on this hellsite.

To those who will read this, THANK YOU! Your likes, comments, and reblogs are appreciated more than you realize.

Please excuse any and all typos, grammatical errors, and missing/extraneous words. MS Editor rates this piece as 99% error free.

Song Inspo: Fine Line, Harry Styles

Pairings: Liam x Riley, Drake x Riley

Rating: M for Mature for a smallish, unripe lemon

Word Count: 3,213

I can’t breathe.

My arms are stiff by my sides, hands tightly clenched into fists. The pain in my heart aches and pulses with every breath I draw. The rage that boils my blood also tightens my throat. Images flicker through my brain, snapshots of the scene I walked in on.  Even as my mind reels from the betrayal and my heart falls into a million pieces that shred me from the inside out, I still try to justify and deny.

My eyes are fixed on my fiancée who still sits on the edge of her bed; her eyes are trained on her slip-covered lap. I notice the fingers of one of her hands comb through her hair; the other hand lays limply against silk sheets.

Her skin is golden in the candlelight, her hitched sobs mixing with the crackle and hiss of the wax torches’ flames.  For reasons known only to Drake and Riley, there are dozens of lit candles covering nearly every available surface. No lamplight, no overhead lighting.

Just candles.

She’s the most beautiful woman I’ve ever seen, and the only woman I’ve ever hated.

No. I don’t hate her, not really. But in this very moment, I see why crimes of passion are committed.

Drake. Naked. Kissing her neck before their lips lock in a heated kiss.

Riley. Clad in only a slip. One of her hands stroking his member as she slides to her knees.

“Liam,” she says softly in a quavering voice.

I shake my head slowly. “No, Riley. Whatever you have to say right now, I don’t want to hear it.”

She swings her leg; it’s a nervous habit she has. One of the swings increases into a stretch and I wonder if it’s deliberate.  Her leg is long and tanned; my eyes take in a luscious thigh leading into a toned calf that flows into a shapely ankle. Her perfectly manicured toes point downward as she arches her foot.

Her limb is suspended for a moment too long before it falls.

The moment it takes for my cock to stiffen and butterflies to take up residence in my stomach.

She turns her face towards me; I see her lipstick smeared across her mouth, shiny streaks on her cheeks, and regret in her eyes.

Regret. Not remorse.

“I’m sorry you had to find out this way.” Her voice is thick with tears.

Our relationship has been littered with apologies … always from me … beginning with our first meeting. If I could, I would laugh at the irony that the one apology I find myself repeating stemmed from accusations of the American suitor being unfaithful to the future King.

The rumors weren’t so unfounded after all.

This is her first admission of guilt and/or wrongdoing our entire time together.

She has no choice.

I attempt a deep inhale, but my chest is too tight.

The wedding is in one week.

“Yes, Liam yes!!! A THOUSAND TIMES, yes!”

Tonight is the Homecoming Ball; a celebration of many things, including our engagement.

I caught her … them … the woman I love madly, truly, deeply and the man I trust more than anything in the world … preparing to indulge in an act I consider so sacred, I have never dared to ask her to perform it while we are merely engaged.

I manage to choke out a single question. “Why?”

Her shoulders slump as her head falls forward, causing her hair to cover her profile. “It hasn’t been going on long; it started on the Engagement Tour. I told him in Vegas that what we had would have to end.”

I watched her leave the stag-and-doe party arm-in-arm with Drake Walker. My best friend, with whom Riley wanted to have a fling. She swore it was a one-time affair; she was so much in love with me, but she wished to satisfy her curiosity.

I attempted to leave first, but I was not only one of the honorees, I was also King.

Per traditional protocol, the King is the last to leave.

So I remained behind, drinking copious amounts of American liquor, making small talk in a loud voice so as to be heard over noisy music, and dancing with women I had previously rejected.

All while Riley spent the night with another man.

“But it hasn’t,” I interrupt harshly, abruptly.

Her gaze lands briefly upon me, an irritated scowl marring her features. “I don’t love him,” she says simply, as if that excused everything.

I turn away from her; as disgusted as I am, I still find Riley Brooks distractingly desirable. I say that as if we’ve been treading this road of infidelity and discovery for years and years. Except it’s only been months since we first met, and if I hadn’t come looking for her this evening, I still would be none the wiser.

She was in my arms, kissing me deeply as we waltzed our way around the ballroom barely an hour ago. 

We beamed brightly at each other and the crowd as the gathering toasted us with champagne and strawberries.

I smoked a celebratory cigar with Drake.

An hour ago, I was the luckiest man in the world. I was happy.

Now ... I’m heartbroken.

I stumble my way towards a wingback chair, pausing to shrug out of my dinner jacket and drape it across the back of it. I sit heavily, legs spread slightly apart; I push off my shoes and undo my tie while maintaining eye contact with my fiancée.

“I’m highly upset with you, Riley. This … this has hurt me. Deeply.”

“I know,” she whispers as the back of her hand swipes at errant tears. “Other than promising that this will never happen again, what can I do to make it up to you?”

The pad of my forefinger taps my chin thoughtfully as my eyes scan the room. I see the flames flicker and dance in silhouette against the walls. One of Drake’s shoes lies on its side near her night table.

When I cleared my throat to announce my presence, his eyes had gone wide as his face paled. Drake gathered his clothing, trying vainly to make eye contact with Riley; however, she was suddenly fascinated with the pattern decorating the carpet.

I could practically hear his unspoken question to her: What does this mean for us?

In less than a minute, my “best friend” was half-dressed and ran out, not speaking one word to either me or Riley.

“I’m not sure. You know I harbor trust issues about being open, honest … vulnerable, with women. No one’s ever wanted Liam for Liam; I have always been merely a conduit to bigger and better.”

And apparently, best friends.

“Liam, I love YOU. Not your moniker, not your wealth. Tonight … with Drake … was a moment of weakness!  YOU are my bigger and better!

I arch an eyebrow.  “Whatever the excuse, your love for me doesn’t diminish the lust you have for him.”

She has the decency to look ashamed.

“Please, Liam! It won’t happen again, I swear it! You mean too much to me! Just tell me how to make this up to you!”

Her pleas are urgent, not fervent. Insincere, almost.

I find the lack of apology perturbing.

 It is obvious she has no idea the jeopardy she has put me, and our relationship in. Very few at Court are in favor of our impending nuptials due to the simple fact that a union with a foreign commoner yields nothing for the Crown. A marriage with Riley does not increase Cordonia’s landholdings; it does not give the country seats at tables where we are already overlooked; I, and by extension Cordonia, gain absolutely nothing from this.

Riley is the only winner here.

And I don’t care.

The last thing my country is worried about is its fiscal health. Our prosperity is guaranteed for the next 80 generations without investments and development. All I wanted from Riley was her love and loyalty; with that, I would be able to scale mountains and slay dragons. But even the bare minimum I require is too much for her to give.

But I’m in love with her. Even now, I can’t not be with her in some fashion. I need to know that she is still mine, even if only in the basest of ways.

I unfasten my belt buckle and undo my pant button; my cock is uncomfortably hard. I crook my finger, beckoning her to me, wondering how many times the woman I have put first, the woman who influences my thoughts, actions, my very decisions has given me sloppy seconds.

An expression fleetingly crosses Riley’s face; I am uncertain if it’s hope or smugness. After a moment’s hesitation, her walk of shame towards me is contrite, yet confident. Like a child who knows they’ve done wrong but realizes a way of escaping punishment.

I tug my zipper down before slipping my hand inside to release my raging erection. The head of my cock is purplish in the muted lighting and pre-cum leaks from the tip. My hips arch upwards as I begin to pull my pants and underwear down. My eyes glance up to see Riley standing expectantly before me.

It reminds me of our first meeting in that bar in Brooklyn.

“A little help would be nice,” I quip with a small smile that doesn’t feel quite right.

She kneels before me, pulling and tugging at my trousers and silk boxers. My eyes are trained on the rounded tops of her cleavage as my hand slowly slides along my member. Once Riley’s task is finished, she looks up at me with repentant eyes.

“Do you forgive me, Liam?” Her voice is hesitant, her tone tentative.

I lean forward, the back of my fingertips caressing the curve of her cheek. “I’m in love with you, Riley. There’s nothing to forgive,” I assure her in a soft whisper.

She leans into my palm. “I love you so much. I’ll never lie to you, or hurt you ever again,” she promises.

I aim my cock towards her plump lips, still smeared from her earlier kiss with Drake. Small halos of smoke wreath her hair.

“Would you … could you … perform oral on me?” My voice is shy, hesitant. Even in the face of her obvious infidelity, I am uncomfortable asking her this.

Her eyes fill with relief that forgiveness would come so easily, and wariness at the request. “You’ve never asked for that before.”

I lock eyes with her before quietly replying, “We’re betrothed.”

She nods in understanding. If that act is good enough for her lover, it’s certainly good enough for the man who will make her Queen.

Riley places her palms flat against the top of my thighs; her head dips and I feel the tip of her tongue lightly lick my balls. It tickles, but no mirth escapes my lips. Without thought my hand drifts to the top of her head, fingers combing through her soft hair.

The flat of her tongue licks wetly up the underside of my cock while she cups a hand to fondle my balls. I stare down at her cleavage, the rounded tops of her breasts teasing me as they rise and fall in time with her breathing and ministrations.

My head falls back against the chair’s headrest when her mouth opens wide enough to engulf half of my cock. When she has a tad over half of me in her mouth, she hollows her cheeks and snakes her tongue around my erection while stroking its base.

Memories and images flash in my mind as my hand tightens its grip on her hair.

Kismet.

The Masquerade Ball

Hedge Maze

Cronuts

Forgotten Falls

Deep pants escape my lips as I simultaneously lift my head and slide down further into the chair; my hips arch upwards. Riley’s head bobs as she sucks me. A thin line of drool ekes from a corner of her mouth. My cock eases deeper down her throat, and my hand pulls and pushes at her head to get to take all of me.

I close my eyes as her warm mouth tightens around me.

Coronation Night

Fydelia

Barn Raising

Italy

Her gagging breaks my reverie and hardens my cock even more. I sit up, my palms pressed against either side of her skull as I begin fucking her mouth. Her eyes are closed; bliss or boredom, I don’t know. Her lashes are dark against her skin.

“Look at me,” I order in a voice that isn’t mine.

Obediently her eyes open; her jaw and chin are wet with spittle and pre-cum. She continues to suck me, emitting low moans over my member. My strokes get faster, longer, rougher. My balls are heavy, and I feel a tightening in my muscles before the last image flashes before me.

The scene I walked in on.

With a harsh yank, I pull her even further down onto my cock as I push myself down her esophagus as far as I can. A primal yell rips from my throat as an intense orgasm comes over me. My body shudders and convulses as ropes of white cream pulse out of me.

As my seed fills my fiancée’s mouth and spills down her throat, I forcefully tug her hair so she is looking up at me; her eyes are questioning.

It takes me a moment to compose myself and catch my breath. I watch Riley swallow all that I have given her.

“The engagement is off. Our relationship is over. I am finished, do you understand me?” My voice is gravelly, tone firm. “You shall retain your title of Duchess, and ownership of Duchy Valtoria, but you will never be my Queen.”

Fright and fear fill her eyes. The heels of her hands press deeper into my flesh as she attempts to pull away from my cock, but I don’t relinquish my hold.

“A press release will go out tomorrow afternoon, after security and housekeeping move you and your belongings to the South Wing.  I think you will appreciate being closer to Drake Walker.”

I release Riley’s hair, and she falls back on her haunches.

“WHAT are you talking about??” she demands angrily.

I stand and begin collecting my clothing; I step into my boxers, glancing over at her.

“I trust you fully comprehend what I just stated. I believe I communicated openly and honestly what our next steps are. Already, I have offered you more than you or Drake have ever given me.”

I glance at her left hand; the engagement ring glints in the light. “I would like my ring back, please.”

I am tucking my shirt into my pants when I see her rise from the floor and come at me, fists flailing. Her pummels upon my arm and shoulder are no surprise.

“YOU BASTARD! YOU FUCKING ASSHOLE!” she rasps as her fists beat on my shirt. “YOU JUST SAID THERE IS NOTHING TO FORGIVE!”

I do not defend myself against the attack; I merely sidestep and continue dressing.

“And there isn’t. I will once again assume the guilt and blame for your lack of transparency and communication. But this is the last time. We’re over.”

I reach for my jacket from the back of the chair and begin to pull it on. Riley’s face is twisted in rage and hurt; her eyes are narrowed into slits.

I look her over impassively and hold my hand out, palm up. “The ring, Lady Riley.”

“FUCK YOU,” she shrieks. “This is ALLLL your fault, and you KNOW IT! If you had never picked Madeleine …”

“I picked her because neither you nor your lover felt the need to tell me what happened in Applewood, something I have never been offered an assurance or reason for. I made a decision for your safety and protection with absolutely no context. I have apologized and explained this to you over and over and over again.”

Riley blanches before playing her last card. “My BEST protection would’ve been with you, under your care!”

“My engagement to Madeleine was the most viable protection. With all eyes on me and my fiancée, it took the target off you, and freed up our friend circle to freely pursue Tariq with the aid of my HEAD GUARD!”

I cut my eyes at her. “Presumably you were too busy justifying spending all of your time with another to even consider that I was the doing the very best I could in a situation that I was blindly thrust into.”

I jostle my hand impatiently. “The ring,” I remind her.

Her mouth hangs open slightly, her eyes baffled as she slowly pulls off the engagement ring. Her fingers hover above my palm before dropping the jewelry into it.

“Liam, why are you doing this to me? To us?” she asks brokenly.

I am slipping the ring into my jacket pocket; I pause to look up at her in puzzlement.

“Me? You did this, Riley. You have been holding onto one incident our entire relationship while committing multiple transgressions against my love for you. You accepted my proposal. You betrayed my trust when it was unnecessary. I’ve been the one saying sorry, being tormented by guilt, feeling less than for not being there to protect and defend you. And the whole while, you were with Drake.”

“I was single when I was with Drake!” she hollers.

“Were you single after accepting my proposal? Were you single tonight when you were getting on your knees for him?” I challenge in a cold voice.

Riley looks around helplessly before offering more feeble excuses. “I was tipsy! He caught me in a moment of weakness! I SWEAR to you, it’ll never happen again!”

I am at the door, my hand on the doorknob, twisting it.

“Liam, you still love me! I never stopped loving you. We can work through this!” Her words are rushed, laced with desperation.

But they strike a nerve, sparking hope.

 My head drops and my eyes close; my feelings and her words tumble in my brain. I breathe out a deep sigh and turn to look at her.

“You want me to forgive you, yet you have never forgiven me.”

The door is slightly ajar and light from the hall spills into the doorway; chatter and merriment from the party can be heard. It muffles the last break of my heart. But I do not leave immediately. Instead, my hand falls from the knob, and I deliberately make my way back to her.

The merest of fractions separates us. My eyes take in her tousled hair, ruined makeup, her curves and swells making an hourglass of the slip.

I pull her in for an embrace, which she eagerly responds to. Her body fits perfectly against mine as it always has. Familiar scents assail my nostrils: strawberry shampoo, coconut rose lotion, jasmine and vanilla perfume.

I wonder if I’m making a mistake.

“Riley, I am in love with you but it’s apparent that even with all my wealth and resources, it isn’t enough for you. I’m not enough for you. We both deserve to be people who will find us ... sufficient, not supplemental.”

She is silent as tears fill her eyes again; I brush them away from her lashes and cheekbones before I place a gentle, lingering kiss on her forehead.

Her lack of reassurances and promises tells me I’m not.

“Thank you for giving me the Drake Walker treatment,” I say politely as my eyes burn from smoke and unshed tears.

And I let her go.

Her hand reaches for me, but she lets it fall as she watches me exit the room, closing the door quietly behind me.

Tagging: @jared2612 @marietrinmimi @indiacater @kingliam2019 @bebepac @liamxs-world @mom2000aggie @liamrhysstalker2020 @twinkleallnight @umccall71 @superharriet @busywoman @beezm@gabesmommie1130 @tessa-liam @gardeningourmet @mainstreetreader @angelasscribbles @emkay512 @princessleac1 @charlotteg234 @alj4890 @lovingchoices14 @lady-calypso @choicesficwriterscreations @queenjilian

[ginger-grimm]

RE-RE-INTRODUCING: MARLOW STILINSKI

Full Name: Marlow Marie Stilinski

Birthdate: February 22nd, 1999

Hair Color: Brown, then blonde

Eye Color: Blue

Species: Werecoyote, Beta (Bitten)

Family: Claudia Stilinski, née Gajos (Mother, deceased), Noah Stilinski (Father), Miecysław “Stiles” Stilinski (Older Brother), Elias Stilinski (Paternal Grandfather)

Love Interest: Liam Dunbar

Friends: Riley Parrish, Coop Harris, Nixie Baker, Bear Wallace, Tilly Cole, Oz Baker, Nina Simms, Mason Hewitt, Corey Bryant, Scott McCall, Malia Tate, Kira Yukimura, Lydia Martin, Derek Hale

Likes: Horror movies, scary stories, true crime, cookies, singing, dancing, cheerleading, scrapbooking, sunsets, movie nights, animals

Dislikes: Liars, not feeling in control, being treated like a child, people not following her advice, sour candy, loud noises, hot weather

Phobias: Snakes, flying

Style: Jeans and sweaters or blouses, sneakers (she hates uncomfortable foot wear), locket with pictures of her family in it, lazy with her makeup looks, hair up or down depending on the heat

Speech: Californian accent, low-pitch voice, gets loud when she’s stressed or annoyed - otherwise pretty much inside voice only

Physical Quirks/Scars: Climbed over a fence when she was a kid, leg got caught on the metal and still has the scar, her eyes glow blue when she’s in werecoyote mode

Personality: Fiercely protective, loving, selfless, salty, family-oriented, anxious, saracstic

Background: Born and raised in Beacon Hills, Marlow has halways been the baby of the bunch - whether that was at home or in her friend group. She was always in need of a little more attention due to her severe panic attacks and BPD. As a child, she was quiet and withdrawn, using her brother’s outspoken demeanor as a shield whenever she felt she needed to. Marlow’s mother Claudia died when she was seven, prompting the little girl to hide her true emotions from everyone. She toughens up and spends more time with her best friend Mason Hewitt, whom she met in kindergarten. When the two are out on a camping trip with Mason’s family, ten-year-old Marlow comes across a scary man with red glowing eyes. He bites her and suddenly her whole life is turned upside down. The night after her first full moon, she wakes up in the ruins of the Hale house, Derek and Laura Hale there to explain the ropes of being a shapeshifter. After Derek leaves town and Laura is murdered by Peter Hale, thirteen-year-old Marlow is left to fend for herself, continuing to hide her new identity from her loved ones. Then her brothers best friend Scott McCall is turned into a werewolf and she tries to help him navigate his new normal while keeping her own predicament under wraps. She is relegated to research duty, having Mason help her under the guise of making up a story. Two years pass and after losses, battles, and goodbyes, Marlow finally starts attending Beacon Hills High School with Mason. Then she meets the new kid Liam Dunbar, and there is a spark. When Liam is bitten by Scott and turned into a werewolf, Marlow is one more incident away from having an anxious breakdown.

Faceclaim: Jenny Boyd

TAGLIST: @waterloou @eddysocs ​ @ocs-supporting-ocs @foxesandmagic @veetlegeuse @decennia @hiddenqveendom @arrthurpendragon @luucypevensie @kentaroranda @noratilney @wordspin-shares @oneirataxia-girl @endless-oc-creations @lucys-chen @andromedalestrange @far-shores @daughter-of-melpomene @bibaybe

[fadingreveries]

The Royal Romance, Bk1 Ch1: Once Upon a Time (Pt. 6)

Click here for the TRR retelling series masterlist for more chapters! 🏰

Story Summary: In this novel-style retelling of TRR, beloved scenes with original commentary from the Choices stories including your favourite group of royals and friends will be expanded upon. Contains extended commentary and scenes from the original story, in-depth descriptions of bonus scenes, and premium choices and outfits.

Chapter Synopsis: Love awaits in the royal court of Cordonia as Riley competes for the Crown Prince! Will she accept his proposal, or will someone else win her heart?

Word Count: 2.3k

Disclaimer: All rights to original commentary, scenes, and characters from The Royal Romance series reserved to Choices and Pixelberry Studios. No copyright infringement intended.

~ ~ ~

The two of them walked to the bonfire, settling into comfortable silence. The guys played by the water nearby while Riley and Liam sat together by the fire on a thick, sturdy log. Riley warmed her hands, while the two of them appreciated the crackling flames which glowed bright orange and yellow. She looked at Liam, his calm face showing how perfectly content he was in the present moment. 

“Tonight’s been quite the adventure,” Liam quietly admitted, chuckling. “I never thought my night out on the town would end up like this. You’re really something else, aren’t you?”

“I’m going to take that as a compliment,” Riley responded, blushing as she looked down at the ground. 

“Believe me, it is. Spending time with you tonight has been the most fun I’ve had this entire vacation,” Liam confessed, his hand tilting Riley’s chin upwards so their eyes met.

However, this piece of news made Riley slightly frown for Liam. “That’s sweet… But I guess that means you haven’t really been enjoying yourself very much.”

“It’s been wonderful, but there’s something missing. I really wanted to do one thing in particular while I was here…” Liam began, unsure. It was his turn to flit his eyes away. 

With a gentle touch of her hand on his arm, Riley softly inquired, “And what’s that?”

“It’s… well… you’re probably going to think it’s silly, but I’ve always wanted to see the Statue of Liberty… It wasn’t really in the guys’ plan, so we just never got around to it. And now it’s my last day here…” Liam revealed, a sullen expression taking over his face. Then almost like an instinct, he composed himself. “I don’t mean to sound so ungrateful. It was thoughtful of my friends to throw me this bachelor party. They’ve done their best, but I’m not in the mood to celebrate.”

“Wait a second, it’s your bachelor party?” Riley’s eyes looked as if they would pop out of their sockets in shock. Her heart sank in disappointment. Her attraction to Liam was one-sided after all. “Congratulations.”

“If you knew the whole story, you might not congratulate me so quickly,” Liam commented, shaking his head. 

This confused Riley, making her scrunch her eyebrows together. Wasn’t an engagement something grand and worth celebrating? “Oh?”

“I actually don’t know who I’m going to marry yet… only that I’ll have to pick my fiancee by the end of the year,” Liam explained, wincing as he remembered the importance of the start of the social season. 

Pressing for more details, Riley asked with intrigue, “What’s that supposed to mean?”

The more cautious part of him insisted that in reality, he was in a defenseless situation with no bodyguards to supervise him. He was supposed to hide his true identity from anyone who asked here.

But the part of him that longed to share his genuine self with someone as understanding as Riley won over. He couldn’t lie to her, not after all they had experienced together in a short amount of time. 

“The truth is, Riley…” Liam started, taking a deep breath before revealing, “I’m the Crown Prince of Cordonia.”

“You’re a prince?” Riley echoed his words, as she paused. It was a surprising tidbit of news, but it didn’t alter how she viewed Liam as an honest, sincere man. “This doesn’t change anything. I don’t care what your title is. You’re still the same guy I met earlier this evening… Caring, thoughtful… I’ve seen a lot of customers come and go, but I’ve never seen any guys at his own bachelor party be concerned about whether the waitress was having a good night.”

Relief flushed through Liam, as a genuinely happy grin made its way on his face. “You don’t know how rare it is to hear someone say that. You’re the first one, in fact… It seems the more I talk to you, the more I like you, Riley. It’s strange… I’ve known my whole life that I have to take up the duties of the monarchy. I’ve always wondered how that’s shaped me, who I might’ve been without the crown. You could be anything, do anything. What drives you, Riley?”

A thought-provoking question like this deserved a deep, authentic answer. Riley closed her eyes, dreaming about what it was that her heart desired. Then she opened her eyes, confessing, “What I really want is… to fall in love. Love is what gives life meaning… the connections we make… the hearts that we touch…”

Touched to hear a very honest, genuine answer, Liam smiled kindly at Riley and softly uttered, “That’s beautiful, Riley.”

Looking out at the surf, the two of them saw Maxwell, Drake, and Tariq splashing in the water. Tariq only stayed as close to the shore as possible, only a few feet away from the water. Drake and Maxwell, however, had waded into the water until it was up to their waists and decided to splash Tariq from where they stood to try to get him to join them. 

“Got ya, Tariq!” Maxwell gleefully chortled, splashing more water in Tariq’s direction. 

Tariq yelped, backing up more on the shore. “I told you, these shoes are leather!”

“Aw, lighten up, Tariq. You’ve got, what, a hundred pairs?” Drake sarcastically joked, a teasing smile on his face matching Maxwell’s.

Back at the bonfire, Riley commented, “Looks like your friends are having fun.”

“Good. I’m happy for them. They deserve to have fun,” Liam genuinely admitted, admiring how carefree they appeared. “Tomorrow, it’s back to Cordonia for the start of the social season.”

With the corners of her lips tugging up into a smile, Riley remarked, “But it’s not tomorrow yet…”

Her cheeky smile was contagious and soon, Liam found himself with an identical one. “What are you suggesting?”

“You said you wanted to see the Statue of Liberty. Let’s do it! I know a place where we can catch a boat tour. Best view in town,” Riley excitedly suggested. If Liam only had this one night of freedom, she wanted to make it a special, unforgettable one for him. 

Liam’s mouth hung open, as if he couldn’t believe the words that came out of her mouth. “Right now? But it’s way past midnight. Won’t all the tours be closed?”

“Oh… right. I forgot how late it’s gotten,” Riley responded, slightly frowning. But when she saw a glint of disappointment in Liam’s eyes, she knew she had to at least try. “In that case… you’re lucky I can call in a favour.”

“A favour? And just like that, you can get us on a tour boat after midnight to see the Statue of Liberty?” Liam laughed in disbelief, trying to make sense of how serious Riley was. He found this girl never seemed to run out of surprises and he slowly found himself gravitating to her sense of adventure. 

Riley shrugged her shoulders, but giggled. “Well, maybe a few favours, actually, but I have some friends who owe me. It won’t be easy, but I know this is important to you, so… let’s go!”

“Right now?” Liam inquired, his eyes still wide with surprise. 

Riley nodded in the direction of his friends, explaining, “It’s only getting later every minute we wait. Besides, it looks like the guys are busy enough. I bet they won’t even notice you’re gone.”

It was a big risk, Liam realized. He was about to go on a midnight excursion with a girl he had never met before to see the Statue of Liberty in a city he had only visited once or twice in his lifetime. He was continents away from home, from the supervision of his father, and from the eyes of the public. Despite his overthinking, Liam already knew the direction his heart wanted to take him. 

“You’re not going to take no for an answer, are you?” Liam asked, although he was positively sure that he knew the answer to that question. 

She could see the anticipation gleaming in Liam’s eyes. Riley shook her head, her smile turning into a grin. “Nope.”

“Then I happily surrender to your demands,” Liam answered, as they shared a laugh together with the glow of the embers reflecting the warmth depicted on their faces. 

__________

Somewhere along the way, the two had skipped the small-talk phase without even knowing. They discovered how easily their words and stories came out in the presence of someone who seemed equally as fascinated with their life just as the other was. 

“So you gained almost twenty pounds because you ate too much baklava in protest for it to be the only dish served at dinner?” Riley repeated, trying to suppress a laugh. 

“Leo tends to exaggerate that part whenever he tells that story. Everyone at the palace found it amusing, waiting for me to give in and have something more substantial. To be fair, I was only eight-years-old so my protest didn’t last as long as the effect I intended it to have. In the end, I ended my objection when I realized how much trouble I must have caused for the kitchen staff to find enough baklava just for me. Besides, I found it was closer to ten pounds, which I immediately shed off after two weeks,” Liam explained, shaking his head with a bashful smile. “Either way, it’s a story he never lets me live down. Now, I believe you owe me an embarrassing story in return.”

Riley paused for a moment, trying to think of a story that would rival Liam’s. Then she looked away in embarrassment and nervously giggled. “When I was six-years-old, I believed I was destined to be royalty. I told people I was the long-lost princess of a distant kingdom. I only showed up wearing princess gowns anywhere I went whether it was at school or grocery shopping. For the longest time, I was convinced that I was going to kiss a frog who would turn into a prince, and we would live happily ever after. My parents would bring it up every year on my birthday in front of everyone, asking where my prince was. I would always answer that he was out there somewhere, waiting for me to find him.”

“That doesn’t sound so terrible. It’s rather endearing, actually,” Liam commented, as a pink flush deepened her cheeks. “It’s fascinating that you still seem as starry-eyed as a child compared to how you are now as an adult.”

“And I think it’s sweet that you prioritize others’ feelings out of the goodness in your heart back then as you still do, like tonight,” Riley added, making Liam bite back a tender smile. 

A short while later, Riley and Liam were at the docks overlooking the city skyline. As the two of them rested their hands on the metal rails, Riley let out a content sigh. “And here we wait?”

“For?” Liam said, waiting to see what other surprises Riley had in store. 

“A magical boat I’ve summoned just for you,” Riley joked, cheekily putting her hands behind her back. 

Letting out a little chuckle, Liam commented, “Not a bad view.”

They could hear crickets chirping in the background and fireflies dancing in the cool breeze of the wind. The stars in the sky shined even brighter than the numerous lights on all the skyscrapers. They could see the silhouettes and shapes of all the buildings waving in time with the peaceful calm waters. 

“Now, I’m dying to know why you’re so eager to see the Statue of Liberty,” Riley started, turning to glance at Liam. 

“Can’t you guess?” Liam pushed her to continue, an inviting smile on his face. He had known Riley for less than twenty-four hours, yet he felt like she could figure out the answer already. How strangely comforting was it to know that he had met a girl who seemed to know him in the same way that he felt like he knew her from another lifetime? 

“You want to see the Statue of Liberty because… she symbolizes freedom,” Riley answered, before flitting her eyes at Liam for a sign of possible confirmation. 

“Freedom is something that I’ve always wanted,” Liam confessed with a knowing smile. Then he wistfully looked out at the deep waters in front of them. “But I’ve always known that my role would require me to give up much of what I desire.”

“You’re the prince. Can’t you do what you want, at least some of the time?” Riley pointed out. For a boy who was so selfless and caring about others, she found it a little miserable that it didn’t seem like people valued Liam’s own feelings and desires. 

“As a member of the royal family, my actions reflect on my house and all of Cordonia,” Liam explained, almost word-for-word how his parents explained it to him all those years ago. Then he frowned, looking down at the ground. “It’s something I’ve never been allowed to forget. No matter how badly I might want to.”

Liam stared at Riley for one long moment, and she turned up to stare into his eyes. With one gentle hand, Liam reached out to caress her soft cheek. In response, Riley had lightly placed her hand on Liam’s arm. They were inches apart from each other as they glanced up at the other’s eyes and down at their lips.

Just then, the two of them heard the blast of a horn. Looking out across the water, they spotted a tour boat pulling up. 

“There’s our ride!” Riley exclaimed, taking Liam by the hand as they ran together for their special boat ride.

~ ~ ~

Click here for the TRR retelling series masterlist for more chapters! 🏰

Tag list: @kingliam2019 @princess-geek @karahalloway @twinkleallnight @tinkie1973 @tessa-liam

[sfb123]

Hands Down

Chapter 2: "Waves"

Catch up here!

Pairing: Liam x Riley

All characters belong to Pixelberry

Summary: Can Liam and Riley still find their way to each other despite Riley turning down Maxwell's invitation to Cordonia?

Rating: G

Word Count: 3,304

Song Inspiration: Waves - Dean Lewis

A/N: Sorry it took so long to get this out, life hit me hard the last month (both good and bad), but here it is. I promise I'll be better about regular releases.

A/N 2: Thank you to @ao719 for the song suggestion, and helping me work through some of the made up in my head issues.

A/N 3: This was not properly beta'd, so please excuse the many errors.

Tags are below the cut/in the comments. If you'd like to be added or removed, please let me know!

“His Highness, Crown Prince Liam Rys.” 

All conversations halted, and heads turned to the doors at the front of the room as Liam entered the ballroom. It was the final night of the social season, and he was only hours away from becoming the King of Cordonia. 

This also meant he was only hours away from having to announce which suitor would become his queen. 

He surveyed the room, observing each of the women, hoping for some sign as to who the right choice would be. He had spent the last few months with them at various events, spending one on one time with each woman, trying to make a connection or find a spark of something. He would always end up comparing them to her, and they would always come up short. 

But she wasn’t here. She rejected the invitation. 

Throughout the social season, his mind would drift to thoughts of Riley Brooks, memories of their night together. But that’s all they were, and all they would ever be. He had barely slept since the season began, spending his nights going over his options, trying to figure out who would be the best choice to rule by his side. 

Kiara Thorton, a polyglot with a natural sense of diplomacy. She would certainly be an asset in building relationships and alliances. But would she have the compassion and candor needed to win over the citizens? 

Penelope Ebrim, compassionate to a fault. However, her naivete would prove challenging during the more complex aspects of the job.

Hana Lee, a newcomer to Cordonian court. In the brief interactions Liam had with her, he found her to be kind yet incredibly timid and insecure. It was a toss up which one of them was least enthused to be a part of all of this. She was obviously there on her parent’s order alone.

Olivia Nevrakis, one of Liam’s oldest and dearest friends. She certainly cared for him, and he for her. But not the way a husband should care for his wife. Besides, she was a Nevrakis, a family with a checkered past in the Cordonian history books. She would be a controversial choice, questioned by many. 

And finally, Madeleine Amaranth, the top contender in the press and with the council, including Liam’s parents. She had been his brother’s chosen suitor, jilted when he made the decision to abdicate. It was an unofficial betrothal agreement when they were children, so she had spent her whole life in training to sit on the throne. Everyone was sure that she would be Liam’s choice. Everyone, except for Liam. 

While he did agree that Madeleine would be an excellent queen, there was something missing. He didn’t feel he could be the best king possible with her by his side. He needed a wife that would see him, and support him as a man, not just a king. He wanted to be able to retire for the evening and spend time as a family. He didn’t see that with Madeleine, her strength was also her weakness. He needed to be able to just be Liam sometimes, with Madeleine, he would always be the king. 

“Little brother!” Liam was startled out of his thoughts by the sound of his brother’s voice. 

“Leo? What are you doing here?” 

“I couldn’t miss your big night!” He clapped his brother on the shoulder. “So, have you made your choice?”

Liam sighed at the question. His choice would have been for Leo to live up to his birthright, allowing him to remain the spare and hold on to a small semblance of freedom. “You will see in due time.” He responded, not wanting to admit that he still hadn’t decided. 

“Oh, come on. Not even a hint?”

“How was the cruise?” Liam asked, diverting the attention away from himself. 

“Ugh,” Leo groaned. “It didn’t go quite as planned.”

“So that woman, the one Madeleine found in your bed?” 

“Yeah, she’s in someone else’s bed now.” He said nonchalantly. 

Liam’s jaw ticked, as his fists clenched at his side. The woman who had captivated Leo so much that he had abdicated the throne, and put all of this on Liam’s shoulders, was with someone else. Leo gave everything up for nothing. 

“Your Highnesses,” a voice interrupted before Liam could respond. The brothers turned to find a photographer holding up a camera to them. “Can I get a quick picture?” 

“Of course, my good man!” Leo threw his arm around Liam, pulling him to his side. Liam put on his most stoic smile, hiding all of the emotions that were flowing through him in that moment. 

Once the picture was taken, the photographer thanked the pair before bowing and stepping away. 

“I don’t regret a second of it,” Leo continued once they were alone. “Everyone comes into your life for a reason, she helped me to see that this wasn’t the life I was meant for.” He signaled to the opulence of the room around them. “I needed to step away and find my own path. I’m not there yet, but I’m figuring it out.”

Liam nodded, noticing the parallels in their situations. In that moment, it all clicked, and he knew exactly what his decision would be. “If you’ll excuse me Leo, I need to meet with father before the announcement.”  

“Of course, knock ‘em dead, bro!” 

As Liam walked across the ballroom, looking for his father, his mind began to race. Maybe Riley wasn’t the love of his life, maybe that night was just meant to be a sign. Perhaps he could have it all, be the best king he could be without sacrificing his happiness. 

“Excuse me,” Liam said, interrupting Constantine, who was deep in conversation with Madeleine's father. No doubt making plans for the impending engagement tour. “Father, if I may have a word with you, privately?” 

“You’re going to be making your announcement shortly, we can speak afterwards.” He replied dismissively. 

“Please, it’s urgent.” Liam insisted. 

Constantine excused himself from his conversation and followed Liam into his study, closing the door behind him. As soon as they were away from the eyes of the court Liam’s demeanor changed, he seemed anxious, pacing back and forth across the floor. Constantine attributed it to the changes he would be going through in the next hour, and was grateful that he was able to conceal those emotions when he was in front of others. 

“Godfrey and I were just discussing the engagement tour. We are going to begin in Fydelia, since it is the home of your future betrothed.” Constantine broke the silence in the room.

“I’m not choosing Madeleine.” Liam stated flatly. 

Constantine’s brow furrowed in confusion. “Well, there will certainly be some damage control needed, but it’s not the end of the world. Don’t tell me you’ve chosen the Nevrakis girl. I know you two are close, but she was only invited to participate out of obligation. She cannot sit on the throne.” 

“No, I’m not choosing Olivia.” Liam took a deep breath, preparing himself. “I will not be choosing one of the suitors.”

“But son, you need to be engaged to ascend the throne. You know I’m in poor health, I need to step down before…”

“That’s why I wanted to speak with you,” Liam interrupted. “I would like for you to make a change to the law. One final decree as reigning king.” He noticed his father’s trepidation, and continued speaking. “I just don’t think I can be the king Cordonia needs, or deserves, if I am married to one of those women. You know how important it is for a king to have the right queen by his side.”

“I do, that’s why I’ve been encouraging you to choose the countess. She has been preparing for this role since she was a child.” 

“So have I, I went through all of the same lessons that Leo did. I can be a great king on my own, until I find a queen that will be good for this country, and for me.” Liam pleaded with his father. 

Constantine studied Liam’s expression, he was steadfast and unwavering. “And if I refuse?”

“Then when I go up on stage tonight and I will announce my abdication. I believe the line of succession would then fall to the Nevrakis girl,” he mimicked Constantine’s earlier tone. “And you’ve made it quite clear how you feel about that.” 

The reigning king’s eyes went wide at Liam’s ultimatum. “You would throw thousands of years of tradition away over this?” 

“Over my happiness? Absolutely.” Liam’s expression softened in a final attempt to get his father to understand. “Cordonia deserves me at my best, and I cannot do that with one of these suitors, so I would rather step down than give them anything less.” 

“You are certainly a fierce negotiator.” Constantine observed. 

“I’ve learned from the best.” Liam replied, he smirked at his father, hoping to lighten the mood slightly. He was unsuccessful. 

“And where do you imagine you’re going to find this woman?” Constantine asked. “I will not have you plastering your personal information all over these dating websites I’ve been hearing about.” 

“No sir, I wouldn’t,” Liam assured. “I much prefer making a face to face connection.” 

Constantine stood in pensive silence, thinking about Liam’s proposition, but also studying his son. He was looking for even the slightest break in his expression, but there was none. Liam knew he was being tested and failing was not an option. 

“If I do this for you, you will make the announcement and deal with any of the fallout on your own.” He warned. 

Liam nodded in understanding. “Of course.” 

“Son, this conversation has shown me that you will be exactly the ruler this country needs.” Constantine placed a hand on his shoulder. “With or without a wife.” 

“Thank you, father.” Liam’s tone remained even, afraid his father might change his mind if he showed too much enthusiasm. Inwardly, he was screaming. 

“I will need about an hour to make the arrangements. You are to return to the ball, and keep this information to yourself. No one is to know until you step onstage and make the announcement.” 

“Yes sir,” Liam extended a hand, which his father shook briefly before pulling him into a hug.

“I’m proud of you, son.” Constantine said, patting him on the back before pulling away. “Now get out there and keep everyone occupied.”

Liam nodded with a smile, and returned to the ball feeling lighter than he had in months. 

As soon as he set foot in the ballroom, he was approached by Penelope, who asked him to dance. He obliged, and led her to the center of the floor. Penelope hadn’t stopped speaking once during their dance, but Liam didn’t hear a word she said. All he could think about was his announcement, and what this meant for him. He was one step closer to living his dream, and falling in love. 

Once the dance was over, Liam parted ways with Penelope and made his rounds through the room, his eyes intermittently flickering toward the door. As the time passed, his nerves grew, worried that his father may renege on their agreement. 

Liam was in the middle of a conversation with the Beaumonts when the music stopped, and a throat clearing over the speakers pulled his attention. He looked up to see his father standing on stage. 

Once the crowd quieted down, Constantine began to address them. “The moment we’ve been waiting for all season has finally arrived. It has been my great honor to serve Cordonia these last few decades.” His expression sombered as he continued. “We’ve had turmoil, but Cordonia has pulled together even during our toughest times. I couldn’t be more proud to have been Cordonia’s king.”

The crowd applauded as Constantine searched the faces for his son. When his eyes locked on Liam, he nodded. Liam took the signal and made his way to the stage. When he took his spot at his father’s side, Constantine continued. 

“I only now pass the crown to Prince Liam because I know he’ll carry on exactly as I have. I couldn’t ask for a better successor.” 

“Father…” Liam’s expression softened, touched by his words. 

“It’s true. I love your brother, but you are the king Cordonia needs.” He turned to smile at his youngest son before continuing. “You have more than proven that to me. Especially tonight. Today, I pass the royal signet ring to you. Cordonia is yours, my son.” 

As the crowd cheered, Constantine took a step back, standing beside Regina, as Liam took his place in front of the microphone. “Thank you all for being here tonight. This is an incredible honor and a responsibility that I don’t take lightly. I only hope that I can serve Cordonia with the distinction that my father did.” He turned to his father and step-mother, bowing to them before pulling them each into an embrace. 

“And now, the time has come, your prince will choose his bride.” Regina announced. 

“Actually,” Liam returned to the microphone. “In the interest of hitting the ground running, I spoke with my father earlier tonight, and he has put through one final decree as king.” Liam looked to his father, who nodded in approval. “I truly appreciate all of the ladies that participated in the season. Your grace and poise throughout the weeks has not gone unnoticed. Your unwavering support for this country is an inspiration. However, I will not be choosing a bride tonight.” 

The crowd immediately broke into gasps and murmurs as they took in Liam’s announcement. He looked out over the confused faces, taking in each of the suitors' reactions. Shock appeared to be the general consensus, until his eyes landed on Madeleine. Her expression remained impassive, but he could see the fire in her eyes before she abruptly turned and exited the ballroom. Liam did feel bad for her, this was her second time thinking she would become queen, and the second time the opportunity had been taken from her. 

Liam heard a throat clear behind him and he turned, locking eyes with Constantine. He didn’t have to say a word, Liam understood. He lifted a hand to silence the crowd. “If you will allow me to explain,” he said, once the noise had died down. “As I said, each of the suitors showed immeasurable grace and dedication to their country, all of which are crucial qualities for a queen. However, there was one very important qualification that I could not find. I was unable to connect with them in the way that a man should connect with his wife.” 

He paused for a moment, allowing a few whispers of confusion to ripple through the room. “I want to give this country my absolute best. To do that, I believe that I need to forge my own path, and find the right partner for me, and for this country.” 

Questions were shouted out rapid fire from the crowd, Liam once again raised a hand and waited for the room to quiet down. “I understand that there will be many questions and concerns, I will do my best to answer and address them all in due time. However, right now, we do need to proceed with this evening’s agenda. I appreciate your support, and look forward to continuing to guide Cordonia into greatness.”  

Liam ignored the lingering comments that were scattered throughout the crowd, and the evening went on as planned. He took his oath and was officially crowned the king of Cordonia. Despite the upset earlier in the evening, the tone for the rest of the event was full of cheer and hope. There were, understandably, lingering doubts about Liam’s decision, but the court had enough faith in him to be able to celebrate this moment for what it was, a new beginning for Cordonia. 

At the end of the night, once the guests had retired to their rooms, Liam sat on his throne, taking in the gravity of what had just happened.

“You know you don’t have to sleep on that thing, right?” The gruff voice of his best friend pulled him from his thoughts. 

“I know,” Liam responded. “I suppose I’m just letting things sink in.” 

“That’s fair,” he shrugged. “So what now?”

“Well, there will be a few interviews and photo ops with the press. I will need to be formally introduced to our allies and neighboring countries.” He paused for a moment. “I suppose we will need to rebrand what was supposed to be the engagement tour. I will work out the details in the morning.” 

“Yeah, let’s talk about that for a second,” Drake smirked. “What happened?”

Liam let out a humorless laugh. “Leo, of all things.” Drake looked at him curiously. “I was speaking with him earlier, and he was telling me about that woman from the cruise. It didn’t work out.” 

“Shocking.” Drake deadpanned. 

“Right? Well, he said something that resonated with me.” Liam explained Leo’s theory, and how it inspired him to stand up to his father, and forge his own path.

“That’s great Li, I’m really proud of you for standing up for yourself.” Drake congratulated his friend. “So when are you going to New York?” 

Liam’s gaze snapped up, meeting Drake’s. “What do you mean? Why would I go to New York?” 

“For the waitress.” Drake said with an arched brow. He knew Liam better than that. “That’s what all of this was about, wasn’t it?”

“Not quite,” Liam sighed. “Riley was my sign, not my soulmate. She made it clear that my feelings are not returned.” 

“What are you talking about? I’m pretty sure it was obvious to everyone but you that she was into you.” 

“Then why didn’t she accept Maxwell’s offer to join the social season?” 

“Seriously?” Drake slapped his palm against his forehead. “Listen, take a step back and look at it from her point of view. She has this whole life, a job, a family, friends, and you expected her to give all of that up and join this mess because of a couple of hours? Nobody in their right mind would do something like that.” 

Liam let out a deep breath, shaking his head. “It doesn’t matter, the moment has passed. I’m sure she’s moved on.” 

“Li, you literally changed history for this woman. You mean to tell me that you’re not even going to try?” 

“I changed history for myself.” Liam corrected him.  

“Fine, you changed history for yourself, but it was because of her.” Drake rolled his eyes. “You’ve got a couple of weeks before the tour starts, right?” Liam nodded. “Okay, so take care of all the press and that stuff now, once that’s died down, fly out to New York and find her. If she’s going to reject you, at least have her reject you to your face so you know for sure.” 

A silence took over the room as Liam considered Drake’s words. 

“At least think about it.” Drake finally spoke up.

Liam locked eyes with his friend. “Thank you, Drake” 

Drake nodded and took his leave, not wanting to push any further. It was a decision Liam would need to make on his own. 

As Liam walked to his room, the king’s quarters, he found himself more conflicted than ever. He thought that his announcement would leave him feeling lighter, more at ease with his new role as king. However after his talk with Drake, he had so much more to think about. Should he return to New York? Was it possible that he could still have a chance with Riley? 

He needed to start focusing on his duties as king, but once again, he couldn’t get her out of his mind. 

Permatag:

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Liam:

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TRR:

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Hands Down:

@umccall71 

@choicesficwriterscreations

[tessa-liam]

Turning the Page

Against All Odds –5- 

Choices, The Royal Romance, AU 

Series Premise: As Riley Brooks journeys through life as a single parent in New York City, an epiphany strikes as she contemplates the future for herself and her two-year-old son. 

Turning the Page Masterlist 

Main Pairing: Liam Rys x F!MC Riley Brooks 

All characters belong to Pixelberry, except William Brooks (Rys) and Matteo Magro, who belong to this series. 

Category: On-going series, contains angst/fluff/depression. 

Rating: M🔞Warnings - Series will contain crude language, NSFW material – not Beta’d - please excuse all errors. 

 Against All Odds – 5 

Chapter Summary: Liam and Leo arrive in New York City. As Leo represents Cordonia and attends the U. N. conference, Liam, with the assistance of security intelligence, finds and reunites with Riley, uncovering her secret. 

Music Inspiration: To Love Somebody, Beyries; More Than Words, Extreme 

A/N1: In this alternate universe, after King Constantine orchestrates two individual scandals to humiliate and entrap Riley Brooks and Olivia Nevrakis in shame, Madeleine Amaranth secures her position as the Queen of Cordonia. Riley, as the King’s mistress and Olivia, in self-imposed exile. Tariq is never found. 

A/N2: My submission for @choicesflashfics, Week#58, prompt #3 - “I just wanted to make sure you were ok.”  

Brooklyn Heights, New York City 

As the season's first snowflakes fell softly on the ground, Riley sat curled up on her couch, a soft blanket tucked around her legs, her laptop balanced on her knees. William, who had spent the afternoon playing with his toy train and building blocks, was now napping peacefully beside her. 

Riley was lost in thought, the events of the past few days weighed heavily on her mind. She had read the news about Madeleine's pregnancy and had read the press statements on the internet. She was more than surprised by the announcement and curious about Liam's reaction to Madeleine’s revelations. Of all the questions she had, what bothered her most was the question of what would happen next. She couldn't imagine the stress Liam was under, but she also couldn't help but feel a sense of relief that the marriage was finally over. 

Riley was drawn from her thoughts by the sound of her cell phone ringing. She reached over and picked it up, glancing at the caller ID. Her heart skipped a beat when she saw that it was Maxwell. She took a deep breath and answered the call. "Maxwell, hello!" she said, trying to sound casual. 

"Riley! I am so glad I got a hold of you! Are you doing alright? “I just wanted to make sure you were ok.” Maxwell's voice was filled with concern. Riley could hear the background noise of the city through the phone, and she could picture him rushing down the busy streets of the Capital, his phone tucked between his ear and his shoulder. "Did you see the news? How are you holding up?" 

"I'm okay, Maxwell. A little shocked, but okay." Riley paused, her mind racing. She wasn't sure how much she should reveal, but she knew that she could trust Maxwell. "To be honest, I've been thinking a lot about Liam and wondering how he's doing. Do you know if he is alright?" 

Maxwell hesitated for a moment before responding. "I'm not sure, Riley. He was not taking questions after the press conference. When Drake and I tried to get his attention, he was called away by his advisors, but he did smile back at us. I think he'll be okay." He paused again, and Riley could tell that he was carefully choosing his words. "Look, Riley...I don't want to keep secrets from you, and there's something you should know." 

Riley's heart started to race. "What is it, Maxwell?" she asked, her voice barely above a whisper. 

"There's no easy way to say this, so I'm just going to be blunt. Liam is coming to New York, Riley. He's coming to find you." 

Riley was speechless. Her mind was reeling, and her heart was pounding. She had so many questions, but all she could manage to say was, "He's coming here?"  

"Yes, he's arriving tonight. Look, Riley, I know you're probably not ready to see him yet, and that is completely understandable. But I wanted you to hear it from me and not from someone else. And... I just want you to be prepared." 

Riley's head was spinning, and she could feel tears starting to well up in her eyes. "Maxwell...I don't know what to say … are you sure about this?"  

“Little blossom, yes,” Maxwell responded, somberly. 

"You don't have to say anything, Riley. Just promise me that you'll give him a chance. He needs you now, more than you know.” 

*** 

As the snow continued to fall, Riley sat quietly on the couch, staring out the window, lost in thought. Her heart was conflicted. On the one hand, she knew that Liam’s arrival would bring a torrent of emotions and feelings that she was not yet ready to face. But on the other hand, she could not deny that part of her was excited to see him again. 

… and William! Riley’s swallowed hard; her hands trembling, as she felt him stir beside her. 

The Four Seasons Hotel, Manhattan 

Liam stared out of the floor to ceiling window of the penthouse suite, the lights of the Manhattan skyline spread out before him. He was filled with a mixture of anticipation and apprehension. He knew that finding Riley was the first step, but he had no idea how she would react to his arrival. He sighed and turned away from the window, walking over to the bar cart. 

“Well, Li, how do I look?” Leo asked, walking out of his room, slipping gold cufflinks into his sleeves. 

Liam chuckled and lifted a bottle of Macallen and poured the amber liquid into two crystal tumblers. “Very dapper, brother. I’m sure the ladies will love it.” 

“Oh, please. Like I need help getting their attention.” Leo flashed a wicked grin, accepting a tumbler of scotch. 

“Right. Just make sure you stay focused, Leo. I am counting on you to stand for and represent the crown.” 

Leo raised an eyebrow. “I know, I know. You have nothing to worry about. I will handle the press and keep them off your back.” 

Liam nodded, grateful for his brother’s support. “I appreciate it, Leo. What would I do without you.” 

“You would be a royal mess, that’s for sure,” Leo quipped. 

Just then, a knock at the door interrupted their conversation. Bastien opened the door, allowing for a stream of Liam’s royal guards into the suite. 

“Your Majesty, we have a report that the American media has caught wind of your arrival and are converging on the hotel.” 

“It’s showtime,” Leo said with a smirk, downing the last of his drink. 

Clapping Liam’s shoulder, Leo left with two of the guards to attend the U.N. conference opening ceremonies. Liam had no doubt that his brother would be the center of attention and charm of the press and dignitaries. As Liam finished his scotch, he turned his attention to Bastien. 

“Bastien, is the car ready?” 

“Yes, Your Majesty, it is waiting downstairs. There is press coverage outside the front entrance; I suggest we exit via the service entrance, Sir.” 

“Very well, lead the way.” 

The limo ride to Brooklyn was a blur, as Liam’s thoughts were consumed with seeing Riley again. He knew he was taking a significant risk by arriving unannounced, but he could not let another moment go by without reaching out to her. 

When the limo finally pulled up in front of her brownstone, he took a shuddered breath as he watched Bastien get out and perform a quick perimeter sweep. Once completed, Bastien returned to open the limo door, and Liam stepped out. As he walked toward the steps and up to her door, the air felt electric, and he could feel his heart racing. 

What would she say when she saw him? 

Would she even speak to him? 

Liam had so many questions, but the only way to find the answers was to take a leap of faith and knock on her door. He hesitated for a moment, then lifted his hand and rapped on the wooden door. After a few moments, the door opened, and Liam’s heart stopped. There she was, the love of his life, the one who had captured his heart and never let go. 

“Riley...”- he managed; his voice choked with emotion. 

“Liam,” she whispered, her voice barely audible. 

Their eyes locked, and Liam felt as if the rest of the world had melted away. They stood there, staring at each other, both lost for words. Liam’s mind raced, and his heart pounded. He had imagined this moment so many times, but now that he was standing here in front of her, he was paralyzed with fear and uncertainty. 

...and, wow, she looked incredible! 

Her chestnut hair cascaded over her shoulders, and her chocolate brown eyes sparkled with emotion. She was dressed simply; a soft, silver grey sweater and jeans. But there was no mistaking the elegance and grace that radiated from her. Liam’s breath caught in his throat, and his heart ached with longing. 

She was his sun and stars, his everything. 

He knew he was in for a battle, but for Riley, it would be worth it. 

Riley lost her struggle, her eyes welling with tears. 

“Liam...” she managed, before stepping forward and wrapping her arms around his neck. 

He held her close, inhaling her scent, savoring the feel of her body against his. It felt like a dream, a moment too good to be true. 

“I missed you,” he whispered. 

“I missed you, too.” Her voice was a soft murmur, muffled by his shoulder. 

Liam felt her trembling, and he pulled away to look into her eyes. “Are you alright?” he asked, concerned. 

“I’m fine. I’m just...” she trailed off, unsure how to continue. 

He smiled tenderly and gently brushed a strand of hair from her face. “It’s all right. I am not going anywhere.” 

His heart was pounding as he looked down into her beautiful eyes, and he knew in that moment that he would do anything for her. 

Riley grasped his hand. "Please, please, come in." She turned and pulled him toward the living area and motioned for him to sit on the sofa. 

"Would you like something to drink? Wine, scotch, whiskey?" Riley asked. 

"Scotch sounds great." 

As she busied herself with pouring his drink, Liam took the opportunity to look around her home. It was filled with warmth and love, and it was clear that a family lived there. Toys were neatly gathered beside the fireplace, alongside a bookshelf of children's books. 

Riley returned with his scotch and settled onto the couch next to him with bottled water for herself. 

“You have a beautiful home, Riley,” Liam commented. 

She smiled shyly. “Thank you. It's not quite a palace, but we’re happy here.” 

Liam noticed all the pictures, framed and positioned throughout the room. Taking note of the two men and small boy standing beside Riley next to a Christmas tree. 

“So, you’ve got a family now. Are you married?” 

Riley’s expression grew serious. “No. No, I’m not.” 

Liam breathed a sigh of relief. Riley noticed the framed picture Liam referenced. 

“Remember, Daniel?” Riley paused, breathing deeply. 

“Yes, he worked at the bar...”, Liam’s words trailed off. 

“That’s right. Daniel, along with his husband, offered me a place to live, here, when I returned from Cordonia. They didn’t want me to be alone in the city.”  

Liam noticed that her hands were trembling as she set her water bottle down on the coffee table. 

“Liam...” Riley began, her voice trailing off. 

“What is it, Riley? Please tell me.” Liam encouraged, as her eyes filled with tears. 

“This is really hard for me.” Riley choked out the words. 

“Riley?” Liam questioned softly, placing his hand on hers. The worry now etched on his face. 

“There is something I need to tell you, Liam,” her voice wavering. Riley closed her eyes, unable to continue looking at him. 

“We have a son. His name is William. He is two years old.” Riley blurted out quickly. 

Liam was stunned. Rendered speechless. His head was spinning as he looked into her eyes. He swallowed thickly, not sure what to say. 

“Liam, say something,” Riley pleaded. 

“We have a son,” Liam said, his voice barely a whisper. 

“Yes,” Riley said softly. “I am so, so sorry I didn’t tell you. I wanted to, but it was never the right time.” 

Liam took a deep breath and tried to steady himself. 

“I know it’s a lot to take in, and I don’t expect you to be okay with it. But I wanted you to know the truth. It was wrong for me to keep it from you.” 

“...but I was scared. So scared of what would happen if I stayed in Cordonia. Of what Madeleine would do. Of what that would do to your reputation.” 

Liam sat back on the sofa, his gaze not leaving Riley's face.

"I understand why you would feel like you had to do that, Riley. I'm not mad at you," Liam said, his heart heavy. 

"How are you feeling?" she asked, concerned. 

"Honestly? Confused, hurt, a little angry," Liam admitted. 

"I'm so sorry, Liam," Riley said, her voice breaking. 

"Riley, I just need some time to process this." 

"I understand," Riley said softly. 

"Do you want to meet him? William, I mean," she asked. 

"Yes," Liam said, his voice choked with emotion. “Very much." 

Riley stood up and walked down the hall. Liam followed her and stopped when they reached a door covered in brightly colored stickers.  

Sleeping on his side, wrapped in a blue blanket, William slept hugging his Scooby-doo plushie. 

Liam's heart swelled with emotion. He knelt beside his bed; eye-level with the little boy.  

“This is your son, Liam. William.” 

“My son.” He slowly repeated.  

Riley's lip trembled, watching his emotions starting to overtake him. “I'm going to leave you alone with him... if that is OK. I'll be in the kitchen if you need anything."

"Thank you, Riley."

She squeezed his hand and then quietly left the room.

As Liam looked at the child sleeping before him, a whirlwind of emotions washed over him. Pride, love, regret, sadness, all vied for a place in his heart. But most of all, he felt an overwhelming sense of protectiveness and responsibility. This boy, his son, was a gift. Liam would do everything in his power to make sure he was safe and loved. 

Liam leaned over and placed a gentle kiss on the boy's forehead.

"I love you, William," he whispered. "I will always be there for you."

With tears streaming down his cheeks, Liam made a silent vow:

No matter what, he would do right by his son.

Thanks for reading 🫶

📌All fics & edits: @ao719 @txemrn @queenmiarys @sfb123 @twinkleallnight @alj4890 @differenttyphoonwerewolf @harleybeaumont @busywoman @karahalloway @kingliam2019 @imjusthereforliam @lovingchoices14 @kyra75 @tinkie1973 @emkay512 @malblk21 @kristinamae093 @charlotteg234

📌TRR/TRF Liam & Riley @irisk12 @thesvnsins @walkerdrakewalker @jared2612

📌Turning the Page: @emersyn-in-cordonia @mainstreetreader @belencha77 @iluaaa @mysticalfangirl @queenwalton @bascmve01 @umccall71 @choicesfrog @amandablink

📌Submissions: @choicesficwriterscreations @choicesflashfics

[bebepac]

Six Sentence Sunday 05.21.23 / Mood Music Monday

I have a new obsession peeps.  I am watching this series called FROM currently, and it  has all my senses tingling.  Talking to some friends I have realized, 1. I like shows set in small towns where weird stuff is happening. 2. If the people are trapped in said town and there is spooky, weird or supernatural stuff going on, or something that just can’t be explained, I’m all about that life.   And From tickles my fancy,  watch it be cancelled tomorrow, as this tends to happen with all of my weird favorited shows.  

Work has been crazy, but just recently in the past few days, even though work is still insane,  I’ve been inspired to write, even though my whole day is spent typing for  my job.  Go figure.  

So here’s amazingly what i’ve posted in the last little bit:

The Life of Riley: Book Two:  Garden Party Photo  Op

The Rotten Apple 🍎:  The Last Part: 

Original post: 05/21/23 at 7:52PM EST.

Here’s what I have in the pipeline 

This one is a surprise.  It came to me after I had a conversation with @angelasscribbles about Drake.  

It could be honestly seen as a prequel to my fic with If Only For The Night

The Book:  TRR Mood Music Monday Submission:  That Don’t Impress Me Much by Shania Twain The Moments In Between Pairings:  None:  TRR MC is single Status:  Still in the writing process, nearly complete!

To be honest, I wasn’t even surprised about how the trip was going being in Lythikos for Olivia’s tribute to Prince Liam.  The room she put me in was basically a refurbished broom closet, dinner was served to my table cold with portions of the entree missing.  But what struck me and what did surprise me is that Liam didn’t notice, and never checked up on us, supposedly his true blue friends were all sitting at the neglected table and he didn’t even glance in our direction the whole evening,  

And not to mention….the kiss. He let her kiss him in front of the whole court. He genuinely appeared surprised when it happened, but everyone at the table, all their eyes were trained on me for a response.  I mean honestly, what could I say?  Prince Liam is not my boyfriend, I’m a suitor in this game we’re all playing.  I am competing for a man that at this point has no true allegiance to me.

Nonchalantly I shrugged my shoulders.  “She went for it.  You know, she doesn’t usually get this much individual time with the Prince, so I can’t fault her for shooting her shot.”  

“You’re a lot calmer than I thought you would be, Brooks.”  

“I mean, these so-called 'noble' royals have been showing me who they are this whole time, I’d be a fool not to believe them.”  

“You deserve a drink Brooks,  meet up with me later, and we’ll find where the good stuff you like is stored in this keep.”  

“I really might have to take you up on that.”  

Liam finally cornered me for a brief moment, as I stood on the balcony letting the cool wind revitalize me.  

“Are you angry with me for what happened?”

“No.”  

“I thought you might be.”  

“How can I Liam? you haven’t so much as stated any intentions you have for me, or of any feelings you might feel for me because you say, you can’t.  You have a duty to your people and I get that.  But don’t forget, all of us are “your people, and we are getting mistreated by some of these people that are supposed to be the “Nobility.”

Mood Music Monday Submission:  This Woman’s Work by Kate Bush Final Chapter: The Wedding The Book: TRH Series:  The Rotten Apple 🍎 Pairings:  Elle x Nico (Eleanor x M!OC) Status:  Still in the writing process

The family was sitting at the table eating breakfast when there was an urgent knock to the door.

“I wonder who that could be this early?”

“You’re not expecting anyone?”

“No.” Nico wiped his mouth with his napkin and rose from the table, as Tomas  immediately headed towards the door behind Nico.

“Should we be concerned?”  Liberty asked.  

“I don’t think so, it’s probably nothing.”

A few moments later Nico and Tomas returned with one more gentleman in tow.

"Liberty you have a guest, Michail has come to see you. Apparently you told him you were leaving today, he wanted to make sure he saw you before you left."

“Hello Liberty.”  

Elle wanted to laugh at the side eye her father was giving poor Michail.

“Hi Michail.” She had never heard her sister’s voice sound so giddy before. 

Liberty gasped immediately reaching for her hair.

"You look perfect Libby," Elle whispered to her sister. Now Elle felt the way her sister had felt; she was the matchmaker.  "Go say hello to him."

She watched her sister smiling and talking to her young gentleman caller who had brought her a bouquet of hand picked flowers, that Liberty didn't mind in the least. There was a light flush to her cheeks.

Elle smiled walking up to the two of them.

"Is your guest staying for breakfast?"

She didn't wait for him to answer in true Mama K fashion.

"I'll fix you a plate. And I'll put these in water. Nico please get a chair for Libby's guest."

"Thank you."

Chapter 5: Moonlight Rendevous The Series:  The Blue Honey Cafe The Book: TRR Pairings: TRR MC is single Status:  Still in the writing process

He sat down on the blanket with Riley placing the popcorn between the two of them.  

“I’m glad you could come over here for a bit Mason, to sit here with me.”  

“Me too.”  

Mason tried not to read too much into it, but as the movie went on Riley seemed to inch closer to him.  She was so close to him that he could smell  the perfume of her body and the scent of her shampoo in her hair.  

After the movie,  Mason helped Riley pick up her things and fold her blanket.  

“I had a great time with you Riley.”

“Me too Mason.   I loved the movie. They definitely left it open for a sequel. What did you think of the movie?”

“She did a lot of terrible stuff.  But I don’t know why, I still want her to be happy.”

“Because she’s not all bad. She felt guilt and remorse.”

“Exactly……. Well this is awkward.”  

“What’s wrong?”

“The food truck, my ride is gone, therefore I have no way to get back to the restaurant and my vehicle.”  

“I’ll take you.”

“Thanks Riley, that's nice of you.”

Mason carried all her stuff to the car for her.        

“Hey I know, you’re depending on me to get back to your car, but I was wondering if  you felt up for doing something else for a little bit.  I mean we’re already out, and we both said we need to be more social.”

“What did you have in mind?”  

“Okay hear me out.. I’ve always wanted to go to this place.”

“Wheelz?!?!?!  This used to be my favorite place as a kid.  I had several birthday parties here. Midnight skating slaps.”

“But you said this was your favorite place as a kid?”

“Kids can be teenagers too.”

“Are you good at skating?”

“I am great at skating, are you Riley?”  

“Yes, I wouldn’t have mentioned this place if I couldn’t.  I’m not trying to embarrass myself.  But I wanted to have someone to go with. I don’t have a date, so would you maybe be my plus one?”

“Yes. I’d be honored to be your plus one Riley Brooks.”

[ao719]

…Sometimes Not (Part 3)

Maybe It’s Supposed To Be This Way

This is a submission for @choicesflashfics, using prompt #3, “How long have you been standing there?”

Song inspo: Wish You The Best - Lewis Capaldi

A/N: This is an au mini series to my Always You story. Thank you @burnsoslow for prereading and helping me work out a few sections! Please excuse any errors.  

Book/Pairing: TRR; Liam x OC (Reyna)

Rating: T • Warnings: None but some language.

Word count: 2500

Catch up here

With his eyes closed and head tipped back, Liam stood beneath the spray of the shower, letting the hot water relax his muscles and wash away the sweat from his early morning run. It was Saturday, and after a week full of non-stop meetings and appearances, he was looking forward to a day off.

After finishing in the shower, Liam stepped out and grabbed the towel from the hook, wrapping it around his waist as he moved to the sink. He swiped his hand down the mirror, wiping away the condensation, and met his blue-eyed reflection.

Liam barely recognized himself; he hadn’t in a long time. And he didn’t need to ask himself what — or rather who — was missing in his life to have altered him so much.

After getting dressed, Liam padded down the hall from his bedroom to the kitchen; when he rounded the corner, he smiled. “Good morning.”

Riley turned, slipping her phone into her pocket. “Morning,” she smiled. Liam kissed her cheek before moving to the coffee pot. “How was your run?”

“Good,” Liam nodded, turning to her a moment later. “Want to join me for breakfast?”

“Oh, uh … I already ate,” Riley smiled ruefully. “I’m about to head up to Somerset, so I just grabbed something small.”

Somerset was the duchy bequeathed to Riley upon their engagement; she seemed to enjoy herself there, spending a lot of her free time at the estate. “Oh, well … I don’t have anything going on this weekend,” Liam said. “Maybe I’ll join you.”

“No,” Riley said a bit too quickly, and he furrowed his brows. She chuckled and let out a breath. “I mean, I’m about to leave now, and you’ll probably be bored out of your mind. I’ve got a silly flower festival to attend most of the day that the locals are putting on, so …”

“Oh … ok,” Liam nodded.

Hearing the hint of disappointment in his tone, Riley stepped up to him. “I’ll be back tomorrow. How about we do something then?”

“Yeah,” Liam forced a smile. “Sure.”

Riley perched on her tiptoes and pressed her lips to his in a lingering kiss, careful not to jostle the coffee in his hand. She drew back with a smile. “I’ll see you tomorrow.”

Liam watched her walk away; when he heard the door to their quarters latch shut, he let out a breath.

Throughout their first year and a half of marriage, things with Riley hadn’t exactly progressed to where Liam initially hoped they might — hoped because it would make things so much easier. He knew of Riley’s feelings towards him because she told him, and he tried using that knowledge to make himself feel the same. He was trying to build something out of scraps because that’s what his guilt told him he needed to do. They shared moments from kisses to even being intimate, moments every normal married couple had, and they were moments where he thought perhaps there was some spark beginning to ignite, but he hadn’t quite figured out if it was because he was truly feeling something or if it was just pity and remorse.

Liam may not have loved her, but Riley had generously offered to be his wife when he seemed to be out of options. Because of that, he couldn’t get past the guilt, feeling that she deserved so much more than what he was giving. So eventually, he started making more of an effort to build their relationship into something better for her. He tried spending more time with her, just the two of them, hoping that would help them to fall into a place to elevate their marriage. The more he tried, however, the more difficult it seemed; it felt like most of the time, his attempts were met with excuses, much like that morning. Riley claimed to be busy or would express needing some time to herself to decompress after a long week. He wasn’t one to press, so he gave her whatever space she wanted. And he tried telling himself that his disappointment was because he wanted to try to build something with his wife … and not because he was lonely … and missing someone else.

Liam walked out onto the terrace of his quarters; on the table sat a tray of breakfast breads and various fruits along with two papers. He lowered himself into the chair and set his coffee down as he lifted The Cordonian Herald and grabbed the paper underneath. He unfolded The New York Times, scanning over the front page; he started reading it years ago after helping Gideon with one of their famed crossword puzzles during a trip to New York with his father. He’d had a subscription ever since, and because of the time it took to ship across the ocean, he always read the Sunday edition from the previous week every Saturday morning. Sure, he could read and do the crossword online, but he liked having the physical copy in hand, so he didn’t mind being a week behind.

As he spread some apple butter onto a morning roll, Liam casually flipped through the pages. He took a bite of his bread before swallowing it down with a sip of coffee as he flipped to another page; as he set his mug down, a photo in the paper caught his immediate attention, and he swore he felt his heart stop.

There, in the Sunday Styles section, at the center of other wedding and engagement announcements was an article detailing the coming together of two of New York’s finest families.

And above the article was a photograph of Reyna … and her fiancé.

It had been almost two years since Liam last saw or spoke to Reyna; one year and 10 months to be exact. Every day, week, month, and year that passed without her seemed to chip away at him, taking a piece of him with it. He missed her more than he knew how to even put into words. He missed her smile and laugh, their late-night phone calls and video chats, their inside jokes and playful banter.

Everything. Liam missed everything about her — about them.

Liam tried not to think about Reyna, but despite his best efforts, most of the time his attempts were futile. He’d gotten a little better about being able to shove those thoughts away quicker over time, but a piece of her always seemed to linger there. He chalked it off to not knowing anything about her anymore, about how she was, about her life. He knew nothing.

Liam had gotten updates about Reyna from Gideon from time to time after learning about her spiral when she returned to New York after Leo’s botched coronation. He’d been so worried about her during that time, he needed those updates for his own sanity, to know she was safe and taking care of herself. They stopped about a month before his wedding, however, once he knew she was doing ok. He couldn’t bring himself to ask for updates on the life she was living without him. It was too hard. He convinced himself that not knowing was for the best.

This update Liam stumbled upon by complete accident, and at that moment he wished he hadn’t. Reyna was engaged. Engaged. And he felt like he couldn’t breathe, losing the ability to read the fine print through his blurred vision. To her boss, he incredulously thought to himself as he aggressively blinked back the tears forming. He only knew who Luca Moretti was from Gideon when he told him about her job back when she first got it, that she would be working for the son of their family friend slash lawyer. He had no idea that they … they were a thing. More than a thing, it would seem.

Reyna was engaged.

Despite knowing he had absolutely no right to feel any kind of way about it, Liam swore he could physically feel the remnants of his heart shatter as he stared at the photograph above the announcement. He focused his eyes on her as he chewed the inside of his cheek, unable to stop his tears from falling.

Reyna was engaged, and she looked … happy. She moved on.

And he needed to do the same.

Wiping his cheeks, Liam blew out a breath before closing the paper and tossing it aside. He had no choice but to let Reyna go for good. They were over; there was nothing left for them. And maybe this was what he needed to truly put things into focus, to put all of himself into building the life with Riley he’d been trying and failing to.

Standing from the table, Liam walked inside and pulled his phone from his pocket. “Bastien … I need a car prepared to take me to Somerset.”

Despite Riley’s protest earlier, maybe this is what she needed from him; maybe she needed him to show up for her on his own, to fight to spend time with her. Maybe it was extra effort she wanted and needed, something he’d not realized until now.

****

A while later, Liam stood on the balcony of the master suite in the Somerset estate. When he arrived, he was surprised that Riley hadn’t yet, but he thought perhaps she went straight to the festival first.

Liam was taking in the view of the gardens below when he heard the bedroom door open; he turned toward the set of double doors leading back inside, but instead of surprising Riley, it was he who got the surprise.

Stumbling into the master suite, locked in a heated kiss with their hands all over each other was Riley … and Drake.

Liam stood stunned, unable to say a word as he watched his wife and best friend — his wife, who was supposed to be here alone, and his best friend, who had told him he would be out of town that weekend.

It was clear from watching them that this wasn’t a first-time occurrence. And suddenly, all of Riley’s excuses came flooding back as Liam’s hands fisted at his sides in mute rage. He’d been so blinded by guilt, he hadn’t even seen the obvious signs.

Drake drew back from her lips with a grin and reached for the hem of her shirt, but stopped short when something caught his attention. He lifted his gaze and his eyes widened when they locked on Liam standing in the balcony doorway.

Riley tried to kiss Drake again, but he stepped back. “Stop teasing me,” she giggled. When he didn’t react, she furrowed her brows before turning to see what he was looking at; her complexion paled when she saw her husband.  

“Li, what … how long have you been standing there?” Drake asked.

Liam’s eyes narrowed. “You come in here kissing my wife, and all you can think of to say is to ask how fucking long I’ve been standing here?”

Riley shook her head. “Liam, it’s not—”

“Do not insult my intelligence by trying to lie to my fucking face after you’ve been caught,” Liam interrupted, his voice cold.

Drake swallowed thickly when Liam’s steely gaze cut back to him. “Li, I—”

“How long?”

“Listen—”

“HOW LONG?” Liam roared, his anger rising as Drake tried to deflect the inevitable conversation. Drake mumbled something under his breath as he dropped his gaze. “Speak up,” he growled as he stepped closer.

“Since … the Social Season,” Drake answered more clearly.

Noticing the way Liam’s expression twisted with fury at Drake’s response, Riley stepped toward him. “Liam, please,” she pleaded. “I know what you’re thinking, but—”

Liam recoiled away. “I’m thinking that I had hoped we could eventually build a real marriage because you made me think you actually fucking cared! And you,” he spat as he looked at Drake. “You were my fucking brother!”

In a brief moment of clarity, Liam realized that this — his anger and reaction — stemmed from the person he cared about, missed, and loved more than anything and anyone else not being in his life … and having moved on from him.

Suddenly, everything he’d been shoving down and trying to bury for the last two years erupted to the surface along with the emotions he was still reeling in from that morning and now this new layer of betrayal. He never saw any of it coming; he could never have imagined what his life would turn into.

And now Liam was left with nothing to show for what he sacrificed and gave up except heartache, disloyalty, and loss.

It all mingled, creating a storm inside.

In the next moment, one of blind rage, Liam surged forward; his fist came across Drake’s jaw with an audible crack, sending him to the floor as Riley yelped in surprise.

*******

Sitting in his study, Liam stared out the window, watching the rain fall outside. It had been four months since that day in Somerset. More had come to light and a lot had happened because of it.

Liam spoke to Drake the day after the confrontation when he came to see him at the palace, wanting to try to clear the air; he didn’t want to talk to him, but he had questions he needed answers to. He learned that Riley had manipulated everything from the very beginning, telling Drake one thing and him another, using them both.

Despite Riley being the master puppeteer, however, Drake was no mere marionette.

Liam also learned that Drake was under the impression that Riley had plans to “handle their situation.” They were plans that would have publicly humiliated Liam. While they never came to pass, which all seemed to be a part of her scheme, Drake sat idly by, with no intention of telling Liam the truth.

Liam felt deceived by both Riley and Drake, but that betrayal from Drake hurt the most.

Drake knew everything Liam had gone through over the last couple of years. He’d been there to listen to him vent, watched him break down when he felt like his world was falling apart, and he knew of the guilt he’d felt for not giving Riley what he thought she deserved.

Despite all of that, rather than having Liam’s back like he said he did and always would, Drake had spent the last two years hurling knives into it instead.

A knock on his door pulled Liam’s attention, and he cleared his throat before calling for them to enter. Rashad stepped inside a moment later. “Hope I’m not interrupting.”

Liam offered a subtle smile. “Not at all.”

“I wanted to give you this …” Rashad set down a packet of papers in front of him. “It’s done.”

“Thank you,” Liam replied as he stared down at the documents.

The divorce was finalized.

At first, Liam had been so shell-shocked, he wasn’t sure what he was supposed to do or how to move forward. Riley came to see him that night after the confrontation; she cried, said she was sorry, and begged him to forgive her. He asked her to leave, and a few days later, he came to a decision, one that, for the first time, was best for him.

Liam spoke to his father, council, and advisors so they knew of his plan beforehand. By the end of the following day, he’d filed for divorce and released a public statement in order to stay ahead of it.

Liam didn’t speak to Riley throughout the proceedings, communicating only through lawyers; she’d been staying in a hotel but left to go back to New York two months ago. He hadn’t spoken to Drake since the day he came to see him, but last he heard, he was in Texas … alone.

Now, Liam was a free man, no longer tied into a marriage that never should have happened to begin with. And he found himself right back where he’d always been, with Reyna heavy on his mind and heart. The only difference was that no guilt accompanied his musings now. He’d thought about reaching out, but after all the time that had passed, he couldn’t bring himself to do it.

The only thing Liam could do was hope that Reyna was happy while he loved her from afar and cherished their past … because distance and memories were all he had left.

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

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[kristinamae093]

Ghosted

Ghosted - Always Watching (Chapter 8)

Series Summary - Prince Liam fell for Riley Brooks hard and fast. A marriage filled with love and devotion was within his reach. But everything changed when she vanished just before the end of the social season. As everyone voices their concerns regarding her scandalous departure, a confession from an unlikely source turns Liam's world upside down and makes him question everything around him.

Book/Pairing - TRR - Liam x MC (Riley Brooks)

A/N1 - This AU starts right before the beginning of the engagement tour. There is a two-month lapse between the coronation and where we pick up, but we will stray from canon. Please excuse any errors found.

Characters belong to Pixelberry.

The morning after the discovery of the maid’s body, Liam sat with Olivia, Drake, and Maxwell inside the study at the Applewood estate. Liam canceled the barn raising scheduled for the day early that morning. He told the press it was because of inclement weather, which was not necessarily a lie, although it wasn’t the entire truth. 

Liam realized they could not keep the murder under wraps forever. Only a few people knew the real reason for the cancellation, including those in the safe room, Drake, Olivia, Maxwell, and the guards. He planned to keep it that way until they knew who was responsible, and then he would happily release that information to the public. He visited with Rhonda’s family briefly and told her husband they would receive a stipend from the crown, as well as college funds for her children. 

They all believed that the incidents shared a relation; the only steady lead they had regarding Riley wound up dead days later, and that was no coincidence for anyone. Olivia explained to Liam in great detail her observations at the crime scene; after hearing her retelling, he too believed the area was staged, but he couldn’t make too many conclusions until Bastien presented him with the evidence. 

The bloodied dress put a sense of urgency on things, but the murder really made everything more critical. Whoever was behind this was clearly not playing a game and didn’t want their plan to be uncovered. He was growing restless, not knowing the extent to which this treachery ran. 

It appalled him that all of this happened right under his nose. The doubts about the narrative against Riley were always there, but this runs deeper than just wanting a particular woman to sit on the throne as Queen. Whoever orchestrated all of this was an enemy of the Crown, and Liam was determined to rid that negativity of his court. 

Another part of his impatience was purely the need to see with his own eyes that Riley was safe. The guilt he felt for turning his back on her crept up on him at random times throughout the day, but he was trying to push that aside and focus on locating her at any cost. He hoped that whoever was responsible hadn’t been able to locate her either; he prayed with everything in him that after she arrived in New York, she found a safe place to retreat, far away from the turmoil that was unraveling around him. 

“OH! What about this one?” Maxwell exclaimed, as he sat next to Drake and scrolled through an online catalog of outfits for an upcoming gala.  

Drake rolled his eyes. “Please stop showing me this crap. S’long as you wear something, I don’t really give a shit what you show up in.” 

“What are you going to wear?”

“Clothes, most likely.”

“Clothes, most likely.” Maxwell mocked under his breath. 

“What was that?” Drake snapped. 

“Nothing! Oh, this has a matching one! Look! Ohmygosh we could match! Twins!” Maxwell exclaimed as he once again shoved his phone in Drake’s face. 

Drake grimaced at the sight before him. It was a set of bright blue ocean wave suits, complete with a bright orange squid bow tie. “God, no. Not even if you paid me.” He replied as he shook his head. 

“Oh, come on, Walker. You can be a sea creature instead of one who drags his knuckles on the ground.” Olivia added with a smirk. 

Drake flipped her off. “Fuck. You.” 

Olivia snickered. “I’d rather take a lava bath, but thanks.” 

“I’ll see if Bertrand will match me,” Maxwell said with a mischievous grin. 

“Good luck with that, Beaumont,” Drake answered. 

“It could go better than you think, honestly. He’s been super nice to me ever since we told him about all this stuff with Riley. I miiiiight be able to get him to do it.” 

“I’m taking pictures if it happens, hands down,” Drake chuckled. 

Olivia subtly rolled her eyes. “Stay away from me, regardless of what you wear. You too, Walker.” 

“Way ahead of you there, Ice Duchess.” 

Liam stayed quiet; although he still held rage with Bertrand and his tasteless actions, he hadn’t given his status as Duke much thought. Although it had not left his mind, for now, especially for Maxwell’s sake, he was keeping his inner thoughts to himself. 

A knock interrupted them from their uplifted moment. Liam stood and granted them entrance, and Bastien appeared with a bow. “Your Majesty, I was hoping to give you an update on the homicide.” 

“Of course.” 

“We have no clear suspects. However, we discovered a murder weapon.”

Olivia’s ears perked up from her seat, and Liam’s eyes widened. “You did?” 

“Yes, sir. We found it in the woods near the area, and I sent it off for analysis. It was a black knife with gold trimmings; I believe it to be the same one used in the earlier ceremony that night.” Bastien held out a folder to Liam, who accepted it and started looking through it immediately.  

The picture at the start revealed the murder weapon, which was the same knife used to cut the apple with Madeleine, but covered in blood from the tip to the hilt. He flipped further and felt his stomach churn at the images of the crime scene. The first few photos were of the maid’s face and he could recognize her, but barely. As he proceeded, he suddenly pulled the file away from his face with a grimace as he saw the cause of death photographed.

“I apologize, sir. I should have given you a warning beforehand.” 

Liam swallowed thickly and with a deep breath resumed, but a tad more prepared for the sight this time. “My God…” He gasped. “What – How – I –” He stammered before closing his mouth with a shake of his head.  

“We still don’t know a lot, sir, as it’s still the early stages of investigating. But we are working around the clock to ensure we receive a solution promptly. Obviously, we’re certain the cause of death was the wound in the jugular, however, we have sent the body for analysis as well. When I spoke with the other staff, they recalled seeing her earlier in the day, but her whereabouts past three p.m. are unknown.” 

“Is that everything?” 

“For now, yes. I will let you know something else as soon as I know.” 

Liam resumed his venture through the folder and furrowed his brows at some of the random items photographed as evidence; the things Olivia noted were present, as well as what appeared to be a cap for a tube of lipstick with a clear set of fingerprints. Of course, the suspect could have dropped the item, but it seemed conveniently placed within the other markers. The only thing that implied relevance was a bloodied shoe print. He could tell it was a woman’s, as the base was short and narrow, not to mention the pinpoint of a heel. However, it was still an odd discovery given that there appeared to be no other signs of blood anywhere else except on the body itself. “Bastien, are you questioning the legitimacy of this crime scene? At all? I see multiple red flags here just at first glance.”  

“We found a few things out of the ordinary, but I have sent everything for analysis. I’m confident either way, the forensics will produce some kind of answer.”

Liam nodded, sufficed by his response. “Have you looked for Riley? Or Tariq?” 

“I have attempted but have found no new leads. However, I am still continuing even with arrangements for the tour and the homicide investigation. I am doing everything in my power to provide you with some answers.” 

“Thank you, Bastien. Just… keep me updated…” Bastien nodded and bowed before he exited. As he did, Liam stood staring blankly at the door behind him, his mind a jumbled mess of chaos that seemed to only get worse by the day. 

Drake cautiously approached Liam. “You alright, man?” 

Liam laughed sardonically. “No, Drake, I’m not… How am I just supposed to wait? How long is it going to take Bastien to find something?”

“I’m not sure, but what else can we do?” 

Liam ran a hand down his face and let out a frustrated sigh. “I don’t know. If I did, we’d be doing it.” He snapped, but immediately caught himself and retracted. “Sorry, Drake. I’m just…” 

“Na, it’s cool. I get it. I wish there was something we could do, but… it sounds like we’re just waiting until Bastien can get those reports back.” 

“Goddamnit,” Liam growled as he slammed his fist down on the desk he stood beside. “I– I can’t just sit here and wait. I need to do something now."

“Perhaps we should seek outside help,” Olivia interjected. 

“What do you mean?” 

“I have an acquaintance who is somewhat of a… ‘private investigator’. He’s not cheap, but he’s worth every penny. He can look into Riley and Tariq’s locations, for sure, as well as whatever else you may see fit…” 

“I’m not against the idea… but how would that even work?” 

“We can figure out the details later, but I have somewhat of a cover already thought of. I can easily say he’s my driver, or bodyguard, or anything, really. Who’s going to question me? Honestly?” 

“Much as I hate to admit it, maybe she’s onto something, Li,” Drake interjected with a sour face. “Bas clearly has his hands full, and I know you wanna get some kind of answer.”

“See? Even the cave dweller agrees!” Olivia exclaimed, earning her a middle finger from Drake. “Plus, perhaps having another set of capable eyes around will do us some good.”

“I want to agree, I really do. It’s just… the last person to get involved with this was… well, you know. Do we really want to put someone else in danger like that?”

Olivia snickered. “It’s cute of you to worry, but he’s more than capable of defending himself.” 

“I don’t know…”

“Do it, Liam! DO IT! Or I will myself!” Maxwell exclaimed. 

“No offense, but how are you gonna pay him?” Drake asked. 

“Perhaps he would be interested in a one-on-one interpretive dance class; we could trade one service for another.”

“Hate to break it to you, but your dance class ain’t worth shit.” 

Olivia rolled her eyes but approached Liam and blocked Maxwell and Drake from view, forcing him to focus on her. Of course, her top priority was ensuring Riley’s safety, but in addition, she had her own questions regarding her blackmail. She would help Liam with anything, but this was more than merely a favor; it was personal. However, Bastien’s competency was undoubtedly questionable in Olivia’s mind. She couldn’t rule him out as a suspect, but she didn’t exactly have something concrete to tie him to anything. For the time being, she needed a second set of capable hands.

“Liam, we have to act on this now. Whoever did this is actively covering their tracks. If we don’t do something, we may never figure this out.” Olivia pleaded.

Liam swallowed thickly and kept his gaze trained on the floor. “I know…” 

“So, let my associate come and assist us. If he doesn’t provide answers, I’ll pay his service fees out of pocket. But of course, I’ll be working alongside him.” 

“I trust you, Olivia, I do. However, I’m worried that putting another person into the equation may end up biting us in the ass in the long run.” 

“I understand, but again, he’s highly trained and knows what he’s doing. All we have to do is keep his cover intact until we can locate one of them. We can’t tip the mastermind off and give them an opportunity to bury this deeper. As long as everyone in this room keeps their mouth shut about his true purpose, we should have no issues.” 

Liam looked away with a heavy sigh; although he remained hesitant to add another person to this mess, the thought of getting any kind of answer outweighed any con he could think of. And, he trusted Olivia to steer him correctly. He finally said, “Okay, do it...” 

“I already did, Liam. He’ll be in the country this evening, hopefully,” Olivia smirked. “Now, we need to address the next order of business…” she trailed off as she approached the window and stared out. “Whoever did this killed that maid to send us a message; I think we need to send one back.”

Liam’s jaw fell open. “What?! Why would you think that, Olivia? We–”

Olivia held her hand up to stop him. “Let me finish; we need to send a message while doing ourselves a favor. The tour leaves for Italy in four days, but that can not happen, Liam.” 

Liam furrowed his brows. “You want me to cancel the tour?” 

“No, I want you to rebuild it to stay in the country. Think about it; you’re technically still going along with their plans, but perhaps throwing a wrench into them. You’re showing that you’re willing to play along for now, but you won’t back down entirely like they assume you’ll do.” 

Liam shook his head. “I don’t think that’s smart, Olivia. We don’t know what they’re capable of or what lengths they’ll go to.” 

“I’m aware of that, but it’s not like you’re canceling everything; you’re simply rerouting, so to speak. The results will still be the same; you’ll ‘marry Madeleine.’ How you get there shouldn’t matter.”

“Isn’t that suspicious? To suddenly keep the tour within the country?”

“It would be, but I thought ahead and I think I have a decent proposal laid out.” Olivia produced a file and handed it to Liam. “How are we going to figure this out internationally? We have to stay here…”

Liam opened the folder and saw a detailed explanation for the sudden changes, as well as a list of future events to be held within the duchies. “Wow,” He responded with wide eyes. “This – this is convincing, and you’ve practically already planned everything… When did you have time for all this?”  

“Last night. I wanted to come and find you right after Walker and I left the crime scene, but I assumed my plan would get a stronger reaction if I laid it out for you. All you have to do is make the calls…”

“I think it’s a solid move, Li,” Drake interjected. “You’re standing your ground but yet still giving the appearance that you’re moving forward for the ‘greater good of Cordonia.’ I’ll help you take care of anything you need help with, or try to at least. But she’s right; we won’t find any more information about what happened to Brooks globe-trotting.” 

“Trust me, I don’t want to leave, but we already set these events! What am I supposed to do to–” 

“You need to pull your head out of your ass, Liam.” Olivia interrupted. “You’re the King and I think this would be a lot easier if you’d start acting like it.” She saw Liam contemplating her statement and stepped closer to him with narrowed eyes. “It’s time you put your fucking Crown on and show these assholes that you won’t back down. What’s really important to you here, Liam? Do you want to figure this out, or are you going to let them use your duty to control you – again? I lay the plan out for you and when my associate joins us, we are that much more prepared if they were to strike back, but we can’t pussyfoot around anymore. You wanted to do something now, so do it.” 

Liam stared at her for a long moment as her words echoed in his mind and a newfound determination took over him. His nostrils flared as his hands balled into fists at his sides. The bright blue orbs that were previously dimmed seemed to darken even further. Olivia was right; this was his country, his call, and the ball was now in his court.

Liam never said a word, but soon marched over to the desk and picked up the phone. He listened intently until someone answered the other end of the line. “Buonasera, Francesco. I’m afraid I’m going to have to cancel our pre-scheduled festivities...” 

Liam, Drake, and Maxwell worked the rest of the day and into the evening to cancel all the tour’s events, and were well on their way to planning what Olivia had mapped out. With the newly produced schedule, they would have much more time to focus on their investigation while still keeping the same number of events as before.

Liam’s determination in his decision stood firm, however, he couldn’t deny feeling apprehensive as well. He was sure there would be retaliation in some form and was unsure as to just how far they would go. However, the power he felt at that moment was something he wasn’t used to. Since his ascension, he’d signed treaties and other small documents, but this was the first time he was going to assert his authority in such a large capacity. Adrenaline ran through his veins and for the first time, he felt like a King. 

The door to the study was suddenly flung open without warning, startling everyone inside. Madeleine marched into the room with a red face. “What the hell, Liam?!” Constantine trailed not far behind her, although his expression was one more of confusion than anger. 

“Ah, I take it you’ve learned of our changes?”

“There will be no changes! We’ve had this planned for weeks! We’re not canceling within a few days–”

“I already did.”

The color drained from Madeleine’s face. “No, you didn’t.” 

Liam indignantly laughed. “Oh, I sure did.” 

Madeleine’s cheeks heated further, nearly purple. “What the fuck is wrong with you?!”

Constantine put a gentle hand on Madeleine’s shoulder. “Language.” He scolded. Madeleine stepped back with her arms crossed over her chest. “Liam, I want to believe you’re not doing all of this for an irrational reason.”

“I’m simply doing what’s best for Cordonia.” Liam shrugged. 

Madeleine scoffed and shook her head. "Unbelievable! Have you completely lost your mind? How is this what’s best for anyone?!” 

Constantine turned and gave her a warning glance. “Although I do not agree with her delivery, I echo Countess Madeleine’s question.” 

“First off, explain to me how an international tour is beneficial to Cordonia at this current moment. The only event that even made a difference was the charity banquet in Paris; the rest of it was just a bunch of bullshit. This way, we can rally our people behind us.” 

“It was for publicity, Liam!” Madeleine exasperated. “We need to worry about our international standings, which are going to be shit now that you’ve–” 

“Our key priority is the Cordonian people. My father pointed out to me that the citizens doubt our union already, and I can’t say I blame them. It isn’t a secret that you weren't my first choice, not even the second.” Liam had to hide his smile as he stood from his seat and crossed the room to stand in front of Madeleine. 

He forced the softest tone he could when he spoke again. “I want to do everything I can to ensure this works. I know I haven’t done my part, but this is my first step in making amends. Although the international publicity would be good, we need our homeland’s support more. We can enlist in media coverage so we can still get the word out, but Madeleine, we need to stay here. Cordonia needs us right now; Cordonia needs to see its future leaders united. We have to show them we are going to lead them together.” He swallowed down the lump of bile in his throat. 

Constantine observed Liam’s body language during their interaction. Never had he seen him so confident about a decision; he looked regal, authoritative, not a hint of doubt to be present. Liam made undeniable points, and he had preached to both of them to do more to keep the people's faith in their union. However, he couldn’t help but feel like Liam could have ulterior motives for the sudden change. 

Constantine arched his brow. “That’s why you’re doing this?” 

“Yes, father. I just want to ensure the right people are supporting us. We need strength internally. I’ve adapted all the best traditions into our stops along the tour to honor those who have come before us. And, well–” Liam sighed and looked away. “I need to show the Cordonian people I am in the right mind to lead them. They’ve questioned me since my coronation. I have to show them I can do this… I can’t do that from Italy or Paris...” 

Constantine eyed Liam sternly for a long moment. Throughout his life, he could force Liam to break with only a glance. It never worked on Leo, but Liam always cracked under the pressure if he was hiding something. However, Liam showed no signs of hesitation and there were no slips in his facade. He looked regal, poised, composed, calm, and firm, with just a hint of vulnerability. Since he passed the signet ring to Liam, he was practically begging him to get his head together, and the man standing in front of him appeared to be doing just that.  

Liam knew exactly what Constantine was doing as soon as his brow arched. It’s the same glare that had gotten him into trouble multiple times growing up and he expected to endure the stare as soon as he told his father the news. It took all of his restraint, but he never let his carefully placed expression stray from his features. He silently prayed Constantine couldn’t notice the sweat profusely forming in his palms, though. 

After a long moment, Constantine’s face broke out into a small smile. He stepped forward and patted Liam on the shoulder. “I believe this is an excellent idea, son. You have my full support.” 

Liam had to fight hard to hide his surprise. He expected more of a fight from Constantine, but perhaps Olivia provided the perfect excuse. He slightly bowed and said, “Thank you, father.” 

“Let me know if you require any support in the plans.”

“Thank you, but we’re nearly finished.” Liam turned to Madeleine, who stood with her arms still crossed over her chest. “What do you say, Madeleine? You’re free to look over the arrangements if you’d like. We’ve left your bachelorette party on the same day as before, but the location is open to the entire country… Just say the word and I'll have the jet prepared...” 

Madeleine rolled her eyes. “I don’t get why you want to cancel an international tour so we can go to the same old duchies–” 

“Countess, your King made his wishes known and his reasons are relevant. Do you wish for the people to doubt your reign as Queen?” Constantine asked with his hands clasped behind his back. “Perhaps after the coronation fiasco this would have been the best solution, anyway.”

“Fine, we can proceed with your new plans.” Madeleine finally relented. “But there had better be media coverage, Liam.” 

Liam fought the urge to roll his eyes. Instead, he nodded. “You have my word.” 

Constantine smiled and put a hand on both of their shoulders. “I’m proud of both of you. You’re going to change the course of Cordonian history, the two of you. Have you prepared a statement, son?”

“I’m working on it,” Liam answered. “Would you like to be present with me, Madeleine? Perhaps it would be better if we announce the changes together.” 

Before Madeleine could respond, Constantine did so for her. “Yes, that’s a splendid plan. Do use urgency so we may stay on track. Be sure to extend invitations to our international counterparts who we expected to see along the tour, though.”

Liam nodded, and Constantine exited with Madeleine at his side, who trampled away with heavy footsteps. Drake audibly gagged as soon as the door closed behind them. “That was hard to watch.”

Liam shuddered. “Tell me about it. Do you think they bought it?” 

“I think so,” Maxwell answered. “Your dad seemed really into the idea, honestly… and as long as it’s heavily publicized, Madeleine will be happy.” 

Liam rubbed his hands together. “Right… Right… You’re right…”

“Calm down, Li. You did good.” Drake patted him on the back. “They bought it and I think you made a smart move by enlisting Maddy to make the statement with you.”

“I agree. It’s showing the mastermind that although I’m changing things up, Madeleine is on board. That’s who they’re concerned about, anyway... I’m hoping that having her support on this will work to our advantage.” 

“Damn straight. Now, we gotta hurry and throw all this bullshit together so you can get your statement out there.” 

A few hours later, Olivia was on her way to meet with her contact on the outskirts of the city limits. Her acquaintance was someone she worked with in the past and trusted to assist them. He helped her look into the source of her own blackmail after she hit a wall. Olivia only traced it back to three different middlemen; had it not been for her associate’s aid, she never would’ve found the others. He didn't classify himself as an investigator, spy, or hacker; simply a jack of all trades. His skill set and knowledge were insurmountable, and Olivia knew he would be a worthy asset. 

Olivia pulled up to an empty parking lot aside from one other vehicle. A tall man in a black leather jacket stepped out and adjusted his shirt underneath as he did so. He took off his sunglasses and leaned against the side of the car. She exited her own SUV and made her way over, all the while looking around to ensure they were alone. 

“Thank you for meeting with me, Ray. I have a job for you.” Olivia cautiously spoke as she reached him. 

Ray smiled and bowed to her. “What can I do for you, Duchess?” 

“I need you to look into the whereabouts of two people. The first is Tariq, second Riley Brooks.” 

Ray nodded. “I was wondering if you were going to seek help there.” Olivia’s brows furrowed, causing Ray to chuckle. “Please, anyone could tell those photos were fakes or set up. It seems likely that the one who leaked the story is the same person who blackmailed you.”

“It’s not just the story, Ray. We think someone removed her from the situation. We found this–” Olivia produced the trash bag with Riley’s contaminated dress and held it out to Ray, who took it and glanced at the contents. “–inside a shed, along with all of Riley’s other belongings.”

“A shed?” 

“Yes.” 

“Why?”

“Your guess is as good as mine.”

Ray gave her an unsure expression. “I don’t like that, Olivia. That instantly gave me an unsettled feeling. There’s a reason her stuff is there.” 

“Trust me, I know...” 

Ray once again looked inside the bag. “You haven’t sent this off anywhere? To check the DNA?” 

“I intended to, but then I was called to a homicide for the only solid lead we’ve had regarding Riley.” Ray didn’t even try to hide his shock, which caused Olivia to chuckle. “Yeah, tell me about it. Obviously, we’re thinking it’s all connected, but…” 

Ray noticed Olivia’s hesitant expression and inquired, “What?” 

Olivia sighed and explained to Ray all the things she observed the night of the maid’s murder. When she finished, she added, “I was going to have Bastien send that dress off to forensics, but after his futile behavior, I don’t think I want him near it. He’d probably fuck around and lose it or something.” She rolled her eyes. 

“I can have it sent to the lab I use if you’d like. If I tell them it’s a stat order, I should only have to wait a few days.” 

Olivia nodded. “Yes, do that.”

“You got it. Now, have there been any leads into either of your missing persons?” 

“All Bastien has found is that Riley landed in New York the morning after the jamboree.”

“Nothing on Tariq?” Olivia shook her head. “Hmm… I find it odd that there would be no trace of him.” 

“I can confirm on my end I found the same result when I searched.” 

“I’ll begin at once. And you want me to travel with you?”

“Just for now. If we’re correct once the news breaks of the tour’s new destinations, there may be retaliation. I’m not sure what that could look like at this point and I need more people around who can properly assess situations. Honestly, finding Riley’s dress and leaving it opened my eyes to the fact that we’re all emotionally involved in this. There’s no reason for it to have sat in there a second longer once we found it, but we were all so stunned nobody was thinking. I hate to admit it, but even myself included.” 

“I can see why; it’s a lot of information to learn at once and not a lot of it makes any sense from where I’m standing. But I agree that having someone with a firm and clear mindset could benefit you.”

“I’m counting on it.” Olivia handed him a thick folder. “Here is your dossier to cover you throughout the tour. You are now Harold Marshowitz, my new bodyguard. Alternative forms of identifications are in there as well as any security clearance you may need.” 

“Got it.” 

“Great, let’s get moving.” 

“Wait–” Ray stopped her. “While we’re free to speak openly, I wanted to bring forth another potential lead I see…” 

Olivia arched her brow. “I’m listening…” 

“Have you looked into that article? At all?” 

“What do you mean?”

“It had to come from somewhere; it didn’t just appear. Not only did someone have to take those photos, but there was a story attached to it. Someone concocted that; I’m unsure if it’ll be the same person, or…” 

Olivia shook her head as frustration washed over her. “No, I hadn’t even thought about that…” 

“As you said, you’re all emotionally involved in this. I’m not, so I can see things a little more clearly…” Ray trailed off, then hesitantly spoke. “I’m, uh – a little surprised that the guard didn’t think of that.” 

“Bastien is an idiot, but something about his demeanor lately has struck me as off… I don’t know if he’s developing dementia, or if it’s something deeper…”

“All the more reason to have me around,” Ray smirked. 

“Is that something you can look into? The article?”

Ray flashed her a cocky smile and straightened his jacket. “Who do you think you’re talking to?” 

Olivia rolled her eyes. “I’m trusting you, Ray. I need you to come through for me.” 

Ray placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder. “All jokes aside, this is what I live for, Olivia. I love sinking my teeth into a juicy mystery. I will find them, you have my word.”

Out of sight, a figure was lurking in the shadows not far away, intently watching and listening to the meeting. As Olivia and Ray vacated the area together, the peeper clenched their jaw and repetitively punched the tree they stood beside. After removing their surveillance equipment and slamming it to the ground, they started vigorously pacing.

Everyone assumed Liam could start asking questions, but his duty and broken heart were supposed to keep him blinded. The expected time for his inquiries was long after the wedding when the job would be fully completed. However, Liam and his collective group of friends were making progress in their search and had uncovered too much in a short period; not everything, but it wouldn’t be that hard to find the rest of those answers, especially now that he brought on a competent professional to help. Considering how early it was in the tour, the possibility of him figuring it out suddenly skyrocketed. 

As a result, the entire operation was in more danger than ever before; that was not an option for anyone involved. They served the deception all around; if the mission was uncovered, multiple people would go down for it, and they would face the wrath of more than the current monarch. 

It wasn’t hard to guess where their investigation would lead them next, and that meant another loose end just identified itself. The unknown person brought out their phone to make a call, which was answered on the first ring. “We have a tremendous problem…”

Tags (let me know if you'd like added or removed): @choicesficwriterscreations @ao719 @txemrn @imashybish @queenrileyrose

@kingliam2019 @riseandshinelittleblossom @dcbbw @tessa-liam @twinkleallnight

@amandablink @cordonia-gothqueen @sfb123 @jared2612 @harleybeaumont

@bebepac @charlotteg234 @busywoman

@malblk21 @angelasscribbles

@bascmve01 @iaminlovewithtrr @hopelessromanticmonie

@mysticalfangirl @umccall71 @fuckitweball0000 @differenttyphoonwerewolf

@lovingchoices14 @emersyn-in-cordonia

@aussiegurl1234 @karahalloway @the0afnan @nestledonthaveone

[angelasscribbles]

Bad Romance Memes Part 11

Yes, yes, it's that time again. Time for more memes that remind us of Bad Romance!! Thank you to everyone who continues to send these to me! I appreciate it more than you know! It always brings a smile to my face when someone sees something in the wild that makes them think of one of my stories and then takes the time to send it to me!

Bad Romance Series

Bad Romance Extras

Bad Romance Continues

Here we go....

First up, Drake:

If he owned a bar

This is just so perfectly Drake

Riley x Drake:

More under the cut

This shirt that Riley definitely brought him

Riley:

Riley x Max

Riley x Liam:

And lastly, while Max may be the wind beneath everyone's wings in this story, the relationship between Liam and Riley is really the anchor. If their relationship were to fall apart, so would all the others. No matter how volatile or contentious they get with each other, they are bound together by something deeper than even they understand, and this is why they work despite their differences.

[lawsend]

Murder at Vista Heights Chapter 1

Series: Law’s End

Episode 1: Murder at Vista Heights

Fandom: The Royal Romance (loosely, there’s not much canon in here. I've just borrowed the names).

Pairings: None yet

Word Count: 2,524

Rating: MA

Warnings for series: adult themes, any given chapter may contain murder, violence, language, drinking, drug use, etc.

A/N: Thanks to @harleybeaumont and @karahalloway for prereading and bouncing ideas with me.

“Riley! Riley! Come here!”

Riley Brook’s head jerked up from the keyboard she’d been furiously typing on, her lush auburn brown curls bouncing freely, her deep emerald eyes wide. Her gaze darted from the source of the interruption, who was standing on the other side of the room waving his arms at her, to the coworker sitting at the desk across from her who looked completely disinterested as he lifted a shoulder and brought a sandwich to his mouth, lettuce and mayonnaise falling onto his desk.

Gross. That’s what the break room was for.

She carefully closed the lid of her laptop before walking across the newsroom. Goddamn if she was going to let any of these vultures scoop her story or copy her work.

“What’s up, Max?” she asked as she approached the over-exuberant freelance photographer who often hung around the office.

His cobalt blue eyes sparkled with excitement as he ran a hand through his short, russet brown waves and practically danced in place, “You told me to tell you if anything interesting came across the police scanner!”

Riley grabbed his arm, her fingers sinking in almost painfully as she glanced around the newsroom in panic. Dragging him into the empty breakroom, she glared at him, “Keep it down! It’s not a scoop if everyone knows!”

“Sorry! Sorry!” He lowered his voice and leaned closer to her, “The seventh precinct was just called out to investigate a homicide!”

“The seventh precinct?” Her eyes widened, “That’s Liam’s beat! Did you get the address?”

“Of course!” He dangled the keys to his midnight blue Chevy Tahoe in front of her, “We can take my car!”

She deftly swiped the keys right out of his hand, “Fine. But I’m driving!”

“But-“ he tried to protest but she was already striding for the door. He quickly gathered his equipment bag and stumbled after her.

Sliding into the passenger seat of his own vehicle, he glanced over at the woman in the driver’s seat, “It’s my car, Riley…”

“Don’t be a baby,” she admonished him as she put the car in gear and flew out of the parking garage, “Besides, I like to be in control.”

“Yeah….” His eyes tracked across her face then dipped down her body, a flush creeping across his cheeks before he turned toward the window, “Just try not to sideswipe anyone this time.”

“That wasn’t my fault!”

“Which time?”

“Any of them!”

Max wrapped his hand around the grab handle above the window and held on for dear life as the Tahoe careened around a corner, “You know the murder victim isn’t going anywhere, right?”

“I want to get there before that asshole Neville! He’s not scooping me again!”

“Okay….” Max squeezed his eyes shut and said a quick prayer as his vehicle jolted over a curb.

The Tahoe skidded to a stop in front of the Vista Heights apartment complex. Riley hopped out and made a beeline for the crime scene.

“Are we really going to just leave her in the middle of the street like that?” Max yelled after her.

Riley answered him over her shoulder without slowing down, “No one’s going to tow it right now. The cops have bigger fish to fry. Come on!”

He hesitated only briefly before grabbing his camera and scurrying after her. He glanced back at the SUV doubtfully, but the sight of Riley’s retreating back spurred him on. He could always bail out a towed vehicle. Riley never waited for anyone or anything.

He kind of liked that about her.

By the time he caught up to her, she was leaning over the caution tape as she tried to get anyone’s attention, “Excuse me? Excuse me?”

“Stay behind the tape!” a uniformed officer yelled at her.

“I know that…” she muttered as her eyes scanned the area until she spotted a familiar face, “Liam! Liam!”

Detective Liam Rys turned his gaze toward the crowd as a voice he knew all too well screamed his name. Shaking his head, he strode over to the caution tape with his lips pressed firmly together, “I’m at work, Miss Brooks. How can I help you?”

“Sorry, detective,” she gave him a look that was half repentant and half teasing, “I was wondering if I could get a comment, or at least the name of the victim.”

“You know better than that, Riley. This is an active crime scene.” There was a slight edge in his voice as his eyes flicked over her shoulder to take in Max as well, “You both need to get out of here. Wait for the press release, like everyone else.”

Riley tipped her head back to look up into his face. At five foot seven, she was tall for a woman, but he had a couple of inches on her. The tailored suit he was wearing fit him perfectly and gave away his family background of wealth and privilege. He wasn’t buying Armani suits on a detective’s salary. His raven hair was cut short, not quite military short, but close. His onyx eyes held several emotions, the primary of which was annoyance.

“Are you still mad?”

“I was never mad, Riley,” he glanced at Max then leaned forward so only she could hear him. His breath tickled her ear, “But fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice, shame on me. I’m not falling for your tricks a second time.”

Goose bumps cascaded down her spine at the  memory, “It wasn’t a trick, Liam.”

“Hm,” he pulled back with a smirk, “Right. That’s why my case ended up on the front page of the Cordonia City Ledger the next day.”

“Coincidence.”

“I don’t believe in coincidences so move along.”

“But-“ she watched his retreating back with a frustrated exhale.

Max’s gaze swung from Riley to Liam then back again, “Whatever happened between the two of you anyway?”

Riley shrugged, “Nothing that wasn’t mutually beneficial.”

“Meaning?”

“Meaning none of your business!”

“I was just-“

“Max, look!” she punched him in the arm as the body was wheeled out and loaded into the back of an ambulance.

Max brought the Canon EOS Rebel up and started clicking furiously.

Riley’s eyes swept around the crime scene, looking for anything that would help her identify the victim.

“Well, well, well, what do we have here? If it isn’t the scruffy underdog and her mangy sidekick.” The voice was like nails on a chalkboard.

Riley turned with disdain toward the biggest pain in her ass. Neville VanCoeur, the highest-ranking journalist at their rival publication, The Cordonia City Herald. He had curly, dirty blonde hair that he kept gelled so thickly to his head a hurricane wouldn’t move it an inch. His face was fixed in a permanent sneer unless he was on camera, and he’d had it out for her since day one.

Probably because she’d turned down both his sexual advances and his job offer. “Scruffy underdog isn’t the insult you think it is, Johnny Bravo.”

Max erupted into gales of laughter as Neville stiffened, “Who is Johny Bravo?” he sneered, making Max laugh even harder.

“Your long-lost twin, ass wipe,” Riley smirked at him before turning her back to scan the crowd, looking for a neighbor that might talk.

Neville’s response was lost as Riley made her way through the throng of onlookers, hoping for anyone that knew which apartment the murder had occurred in. No one knew anything.

She stomped her foot on the ground in frustration as her eyes fell on the spot the ambulance had been. “Hey, Max, I have an idea!”

Max listened and a mischievous grin spread across his face, “I’m on it!”

He quickly found Neville’s photographer and sidled up to him, “Dude! There’s a delivery entrance open around back! I got some amazing shots!”

“Really?”

“Really!”

The man’s eyes narrowed in suspicion, “Why would you tell me this?”

“Oh, am I not supposed to?” Max acted startled, “I’m new at this. I thought we all helped each other out like that! Isn’t that how it works?”

“Sure, kid. That’s how we do it,” the guy gloated, “Thanks for the tip!”

Max watched the photographer whisper to Neville who looked gleefully around before sneaking around the parking lot to the back of the building. He gave Riley a thumbs up.

Riley waited for Max’s signal, then found a uniformed police officer, “I’m sorry to interrupt but I just saw that reporter go around back. Aren’t they supposed to stay on this side of the caution tape?”

“Yes,” the man was obviously annoyed, “Thank you ma’am, we’ll take care of it.”

“Any time, officer,” she smiled disarmingly at him.

Riley and Max ran back to the Tahoe, giggling the whole way.

“That should keep him busy for a while!” She laughed as she climbed back into the driver’s seat.

“So, we can get to the coroner’s office first, I presume?”

“Of course!” She started the car and threw it in reverse.

“Be careful with Estelle!” Max yelled at her as the car went up onto the sidewalk.

“Sorry, sorry!” She put it in drive and made her way carefully away from the crime scene. Curbs were one thing, she didn’t want to hit a pedestrian, and the street was now full of onlookers.

They drove in silence until they were clear of the crowd. Max relaxed into his seat with relief, but it was short lived as Riley gunned it the moment they were back on open road.

“Jesus, Riley! I want to get to the coroner’s office as a photographer, not a body!”

“Have I ever killed you before?”

“No…but there’s a first time for everything!”

Riley was quiet for a moment, then her tone turned serious, “Can I ask you something?”

Max’s face lit up at what he thought was a change of subject, “Sure Riley, you can ask me anything!”

“So, I’ve been wondering….Why did you name your car Estelle? That’s an old lady’s name, isn’t it?” She took her eyes briefly from the road as he answered.

Max gave her a flirty wink, “I like older women.”

Riley rolled her eyes as she returned them to the road, “Grandma old?”

Max’s face fell, “No…no, that’s not what I meant!”

“How old are you, Max? Twenty? Twenty-one?”

“I’m twenty-three, Riley. I’m a grown ass man.”

“Sure you are.”

“I’m only five years younger than you, you know.”

“Only,” she snorted, “Five years is an entire college career and then some.”

Max let out a frustrated exhale as he shifted in his seat, “Whatever.”

They pulled up in front of a small, nondescript building situated behind a UPS hub and across from a warehouse in the industrial district. It was a squat, one story structure made of faded brown brick with a row of tiny windows stretched across the front and a red windowless door in the middle. Actually, the door was just off center, a detail made her want to knock it down with a wrecking ball.

“This building is depressing,” Max muttered as he climbed out of the Tahoe.

“You always say that.”

“It’s always true!”

“Considering what it is, that seems appropriate,” Riley responded as she made her way into the building and down the hall to the morgue, bypassing the reception desk which was thankfully empty.

“Come in!” a voice called in response to her knock.

“Hey, Dr. Lee!” Riley greeted the woman with the lab coat.

“I told you to call me Hana,” the doctor was shorter than Riley, with warm caramel colored hair falling to her shoulders, deep brown eyes and an upturned nose.

“Sorry…Hana…I was wondering if you knew anything about the murder at the Vista Heights apartment complex earlier today.”

“Just brought him in,” Hana swept her hand toward the body on the table, “the cause of death seems obvious, but you never know. All homicide victims are autopsied, as you know.”

“Who is he?” Riley craned her neck trying to get a better look. The man on the table looked to be in his mid to late forties with jet-black hair and sharp features.

Max hung back near the door. He had no desire to see the dead body.

“You know I can’t tell you that,” Hana admonished.

“I know. I’m sorry,” Riley shot Max a meaningful look, her eyes darting from his to a manila folder laying on Hana’s desk, before stepping closer to the other woman. With a slight pout, she reached out and rubbed a hand down her upper arm, “Forgive me?”

Hana flushed slightly as a shy smile spread across her face, “It’s fine, I know you’re just doing your job.”

“And you’re just doing yours. I respect that.” Riley’s eyes flicked over Hana’s shoulder as Max closed the folder and gave her a thumbs up. “You said the cause of death was obvious?”

Hana hesitated, “I really shouldn’t say…” 

“I promise to keep your name out of it.”

“I mean…it’s going to be out there soon enough anyway. I don’t think it’s a huge secret that gunshots were fired just prior to 911 being called. That’s all I can really say.”

“Thank you!!” Riley knew about the gunshots because Max had heard that much on the police scanner. It was nice to have confirmation though. “We’ll let you get back to work!”

“Riley?”

She paused on her way to the door, “Yeah?”

“Are you going to be at the bar later?”

“The Beat?”

“Yeah, that’s the one.”

“Of course!” she grinned, “There’s been a murder! Where else would I be but the bar all the cops hang out at?”

“Okay, maybe I’ll see you there.”

“That would be awesome!” Riley gave her a wave then exited the room. The moment they were back in the car, Riley turned to Max and demanded, “Well?”

“Well, the victim’s name was Trenton Hayes, he was shot dead in his apartment.”

“Trenton Hayes…Trenton Hayes…” she searched her memory, “Isn’t he some kind of wall street tycoon?”

“Yeah, I don’t really keep up with that type of stuff.”

“Really?” Surprise pulled through her, “You’re a Beaumont.”

“Not a very good one,” he laughed humorlessly, “My contribution to the family empire consists of spending the money…”

“Okay….” She didn’t know what to say to that. She smacked him on the shoulder as she drove, “Well, look the guy up!”

“I am!” He swatted her hand away as he typed into his phone, “Oh, shit! I’ve seen this guy before!”

“Really? Where?”

“I took pictures of him for this PI I work with sometimes.”

“What? Why?”     

Max shrugged, “I don’t know. He pays me to take photos sometimes, or hack into shit. I wasn’t following the guy; I was following the woman he met with!”

“Who was the woman?”

“Katie Sloan.”

“Wait! The wife of William Sloan? As in, the head of Sloan Enterprises?”

“Yeah, that’s the one!”

“Holy fucking shit! Who is this PI? We’re going to talk to him right now!”

“Walker and Son Investigations, it’s on Canal Street.”

“Hold on!” She yelled as she yanked the wheel and skidded into a U-turn, “Canal Street, here we come!”