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khoicesbyk · 7 days

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The Royal Romance.

Forevermore.

A/N: this is the next chapter in the journey of my OTP. Follow along for the fun.

Rated: Mature (at times can and will be Explicit. I'll be sure to change the rating when and if that happens). | Contains sexual content and strong language. (You know? The usual. Y'all should be used to this from me by now 😁) | Bolded and/or italicized words are conversations and thoughts of the characters. | Main Characters: King Marquise Rys (LI) and Queen Shanelle Miller-Rys (MC) | All Characters and names: (except MC and original characters created by me and/or other authors [their characters have been mentioned and/or used in the story with their permission] ) are property of Pixelberry.

Current Word Count: 8,600 words. (may be slightly more or may be slightly less. Look, I stop counting after editing and re-editing and driving myself insane. 🤷🏾‍♀️)

If you’d like to be added to my tag list. Just reblog or DM me and I will gladly add you! 😁😘

This series is rated Mature and/or Explicit. It is NOT reading material that is safe for those under 18. Reader discretion is STRONGLY advised!

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Tag List: @choicesficwriterscreations

Sorry this is wayyyyy late! I thought I had uploaded it last month. Oh well! 🤦🏾‍♀️🤷🏾‍♀️

Chapter 5.) Joy Of Winter.

It's December in Cordonia. And many in the kingdom were abuzz for the annual Cordonia Winter Festival. It has become somewhat of a national pride and many were ready to celebrate. None more than Marquise. He loves the event and the fact that it has become his wife's newest pastime brings him joy.

December wasn't just the month of the Winter Festival. It was also the month of his graduation. He was to finally graduate with a Doctorate in Psychology. He was excited and couldn't wait to go to Boston. But first, before he could celebrate he had business to attend to.

It was a few weeks removed since his mother-in-law had gotten into a physical altercation with Countess Alicia. With many of the nobles beginning to take Lady Alicia's side and wanting Shantel to be removed from her post. But Marquise knew better. And after the security footage of the fight was released, he had both ladies meet him in his office to discuss and remedy the issue.

"Good morning to you both. Thank you for joining me. Please have a seat." he said to them both.

"Thank you for having us, Your Majesty," Shantel replied.

"Yes. Thank you." Alicia agreed.

"You're both very welcome. Now that you both are here, we can get down to business. Apparently, you two have an issue that needs to be resolved. Now."

Alicia huffed.

"There wouldn't be an issue, Your Majesty, if someone here had remembered her place."

Shantel rolled her eyes.

"If by 'remembered her place' you mean that I should've remembered that I am a Duchess and you're not, then yes you're right I should have, and by doing so I should've had you thrown out of the palace."

"You have no authority there!" Alicia sneered.

"No, I don't. But my husband, perhaps you know him, his name is Prince Damien Miller, he does. And so does my daughter. The Queen. After all, it is HER palace. Not yours. And certainly not your step-sister's." Shantel shot back.

"Your husband is a coward and idiot!" Alicia seethed.

"If by that you mean he chose better and by that I mean he chose me and not a bottom feeder like you. Then yeah you're so right he is."

Alicia's face contorted with disgust.

"Why you no good god awful Jezebel!" Alicia snapped at Shantel.

"You're still mad that he didn't want you then and still doesn't want you now!" Shantel spat back at her.

"Why you–" Alicia started to say before Marquise cut her off, "That is enough! Have some decorum! You're both grandmothers for God's sake."

Shantel raised an eyebrow.

"You know what? You're right, Your Majesty. We should know better. Especially me. After all, my sweet granddaughter is the Crown Heir. I have an example to set for her. I wouldn't want her to see me act like this."

Alicia scoffed.

"This is why you are not and never will be worthy of your so-called title and station as Duchess. You think because you slept with Damien that you belong among us. You are nothing but a commoner. A low-brow American commoner at that."

"Correction: you slept with him. And according to him, you were never really that good. Unlike you, I married him. I love him. Something you have always been incapable of doing."

"Ladies!" Marquise warned.

"I don't even know why I'm even here. We both know you'll do nothing but side with this sad excuse of a noble." Alicia said to Marquise.

Marquise took a deep breath and straightened his spine.

"You're here because whether you like Shantel or not, whether you like the fact she is married to Damien or not, she is still an active member of The Royal Family. And you decided to put your hands on her. Knowing that it's against the law to do so." Marquise said to Alicia.

"She started it!" Alicia protested.

Shantel rolled her eyes.

"Countess, with all due respect, I have seen the security footage and heard the accompanying audio as well. You antagonized her after she, my father-in-law, and Commander Devereaux were situated and settled into their rooms and when she snapped at you for your rudeness during dinner, you threw a drink in her face. Which ended quite badly for you."

Alicia rolled her eyes and Marquise raised an eyebrow at her.

"Did you just roll your eyes at me, Countess?" he asked.

"Of course not. I'm not a heathen. Unlike some people." she replied while gesturing to Shantel.

"I'm not so sure your actual husband, Earl Amos, would agree." Shantel shot back at her.

"Ladies! Last. Chance." Marquise warned.

The two women glared at each other but said nothing.

"Now this issue between you two needs to be put to rest permanently. You are both nobles of very high society, given you both have close proximity to King Dominic and Shantel has close proximity to myself and my wife."

"So just what are you proposing, Your Majesty?" Alicia asked.

"After speaking with both of your husbands I let them decide what the best course of action is to take," Marquise replies.

"And what did they decide?" Shantel asks.

"Your husbands decided that you two are going to work together." Marquise replies.

They were stunned.

"What?!" Shantel asks.

"Excuse me?!" Alicia asked.

"Allow me to explain, because Shantel is the Education Minister, she needs a second in command. That's where you come in Alicia. Because as of this moment, per your husband's request, you are no longer Head Of Staff at the palace in Cloutier."

Alicia blinked.

"What do you mean by his request?!" Alicia asks.

"What I mean is Earl Amos requested you be fired from your position as Head Of Staff for embarrassing and potentially jeopardizing his house, social standing, and name. And I will honor his request. Effective immediately. Instead, you will serve as Shantel's second in command. Consider it fair and well...karmic punishment."

Their jaws dropped.

"So you're saying that I have to work for that?!" Alicia asked, gesturing at Shantel who rolled her eyes.

"Yes. This was the solution both men came up with and as King, I signed off on it." Marquise replied.

"Unbelievable. I can not believe that no good coward would turn on me!"

Shantel shook her head.

"Next time pick on someone who can't fight. You know, like your step-sister?" Shantel quipped.

Marquise turned his attention to his mother-in-law.

"As for you madam, you said it best. Your granddaughter is the Crown Heir. And it is up to you to set the greatest example for her. And as her father and your King, I expect you to act like it. Now as far as Alicia working for you is concerned, I expect you to be a fair leader. Is that clear?" Marquise asks.

"Of course. She's not the first combative person I've dealt with in a workplace and she won't be the last."

Alicia scoffed.

"This is humiliating! I shouldn't have to work with her!"

"Not work with her Countess. Work under her. She is officially your boss. But as she has just assured me, she will be fair. And I expect that you will be compliant."

"And if I'm not? What then? You forget I'm protected by my brother-in-law." Alicia asked.

"First of all, his detail does not extend to you. And hasn't extended to you since he lost power. And secondly, I could just forgo the solution and go with Damien's original idea," Marquise replies.

"What idea?" Alicia asks.

"That I strip you of your title and lands. That was Damien's original idea. The only reason he didn't push harder for it is because of your grandchildren. He as well as your husband didn't think it would be fair for them to have to lose what's rightfully theirs because you want to be a 60-going-5-year-old." Marquise replied.

Shantel snickered quietly.

"It's no wonder why many of the nobles don't respect you, Your Majesty. You let worms like her get away with murder, while you punish their betters for no reason." Alicia sneered at him.

"Oh, I definitely have a reason. It's called I'm the King and this is my kingdom! Now if you're that unhappy with how I rule and run things, you are free to live anywhere you'd like. Just know that it won't be here in Cordonia."

Alicia huffed.

"Are we done?" Alicia asked.

"Get out of my office!" Marquise hissed at her.

Alicia got up and stormed out. Slamming his office door.

"Well, that was fun," Shantel said.

Marquise raised an eyebrow at her, causing her to shake her head.

"I'll be fine, son."

"I know. But I meant it when I told her that you would be fair. Do not make me look like a liar."

"I would never do that to you. You know this. I know how hard you work to balance everything."

"Good."

"You know she's going to run and tell the first noble she comes across that you have been unfair to her right?" Shantel asked.

"I'm betting on it. But I've been in power long enough to know how to deal with these wealthy idiots." he replies.

"What if she tries to gather enough support to oust you and my daughter?" she asks.

"Unless she can somehow convince the 5 heads of the Great Houses of Cordonia to support her cause, I doubt it. Also, Countess Madeleine, Duchess Kiara, Duke Bertrand, Duchess Olivia, and Duke Landon pledged their support to the crown when Khari was born and reaffirmed that pledge when my boys were born."

"Madeleine took over for her mother?" Shantel asks.

"Mmhmm. Duchess Adelaide has kidney cancer on top of having Cirrhosis." Marquise replied.

"Oh my God!" Shantel said with a gasp.

"Her health struggles haven't been made public yet, but due to her rapidly declining health, she quietly passed the duties as Head Of House over to her daughter when the boys were six months old."

"Is it terminal?" Shantel asks.

"That I don't know. I do know that Adelaide is on the donor list. I also don't know how high up the list she is." Marquise replies.

"Does my daughter know?"

"Yes. We went to see the Duchess a few weeks ago."

"How can Madeleine be Head Of House if her mother is still a Duchess?"

"Her health. If a Head Of House ever falls gravely ill, they can pass their duties on to their heir. Maddy won't officially be Duchess of Fydelia until her mother officially passes."

Shantel nodded.

Just then there was a loud commotion outside of Marquise's office door.

"What in the world?" Shantel asks.

That's when Earl Amos Barbaroux came in with Countess Alicia hot on his heels.

"May I help you?" Marquise asked.

"Yes, yes you can. You can tell my so-called husband that the deal he made with Damien is off!"

The Earl rolled his eyes.

"Please my King, I apologize for intruding into your office. But my wife is being unreasonable."

Alicia whirled around on him.

"Unreasonable?! You are trying to dehumanize me by forcing me to work for someone who is way beneath my station!" Alicia yelled at her husband.

"You don't have a station!" he yelled back at her. "I have a station!"

Shantel and Marquise looked at each other as Earl Amos took a deep breath.

"If it wasn't for me, you'd still be the same noble whore, that your parents passed around, family to family, until they found mine, specifically they found my father, and begged him to match us together!"

This left the King and his mother-in-law speechless.

"You—" Alicia started to say before her husband cut her off, "I have had to put up with you and your constant disrespect and condescendence for decades. And now is when I put my foot down!"

"Enough! Whatever the issue is or issues are between you two, will not and can not be solved by you two having a shouting match in my office. So if you two don't mind." Marquise said to both of them while gesturing to his office door, "Thank you."

Earl Amos nodded.

"Yes, you're right Your Majesty. I apologize for my behavior towards you and Duchess Shantel." he replied to Marquise before addressing Shantel, " and speaking of you Duchess, I would also like to extend my sincerest apologies for my wife and her unbecoming and unscrupulous behavior towards you all these years. I have never been more ashamed or embarrassed."

Shantel nodded.

"Thank you for your apology, Sir."

Earl Amos gave her a small smile and nod before turning his attention back to his wife.

"His Majesty asked us both to leave his office. So let's go," he said calmly to her.

Alicia crossed her arms as she glared at him.

"I am not going anywhere with you! You no good traitor!" Alicia sneered at her husband.

"Well, you're certainly not going to be staying in my office all day so you and Earl Amos can both take your leave."

Alica scoffed at Marquise.

"Countess, I will NOT repeat myself," Marquise warned her.

Alicia huffed and began to turn on her heel. But not before saying one last thing to her husband.

"I should've had Edward kill you when I had the chance!"

The Earl scoffed.

"Well, now you can't. And until our youngest three children have finished their studies and are off to university, I am stuck living with a shrew of a wife better known as you."

Alicia stood there with her mouth open as she watched her husband walk out. Then followed behind him not too long after.

"Well that was certainly eventful," Shantel said to Marquise.

Marquise only shook his head.

"Too eventful."

"What happened to them?" Shantel asks, "From all I ever heard he's been nothing but good to her."

"He has. But she's never been any good to him."

"But why? What has he done that she hates him so much?"

Marquise looked at his door for a moment.

"Off the record? The three youngest children he mentioned...aren't biologically his."

"What?!" Shantel asked.

"Their biological father was a man Alicia had been having an affair with for years. He worked on her and Amos's estate staff. And rather than risk the scandal of divorce, he's raised them as his own." Marquise replies.

"Do you think their children know he's not their biological father?" Shantel asked.

"I doubt it. I don't think he wants them to know."

Shantel nodded.

"I can understand why. It would break his heart. Where is their biological father?"

Marquise exhaled slowly.

"You don't know this but your brother-in-law had him executed when the man threatened to go public about his and Alicia's affair."

"You're joking!"

Marquise shook his head no.

"Nope. And Edward made sure to have this man erased from all public records. And he even told Amos that he was to raise the children as his own until they became of age."

"Edward, had every trace of him erased?"

"Yes. You forget he had A LOT of unchecked power then. No one would have been stupid enough to question him. It took me a while but I did find the man's name."

"What was it?"

"His name was Yohan. But that's all I have been able to recover about him."

"Surely the man had a family."

Marquise exhaled slowly.

"If he did, they were silenced by either execution or exile."

Shantel shook her head.

"So is that all nobles do? Cheat on each other and drink themselves to death?" she asked.

"No. They also brag about their insane wealth and power while thinking it rivals mine."

"And we both know your power is unmatched."

"Exactly. So now that all that ugliness is over, how about I treat you to lunch?" Marquise asked.

"I would love to have lunch with you son-in-love."

"Perfect!"

Later that night Marquise had caught Shanelle up on his very colorful morning.

"Alicia was cheating on Earl Amos?"

"Yes. For years. And she was able to get away with it."

"How?"

"She knew he could never challenge her because all she had to do was run to either Edward or Genevieve and she'd be safe. So he knew it was safer to keep quiet."

"Yikes!"

"Yeah."

Shanelle took a sip of her wine.

"Now are you sure this Alicia woman working under my mom is a good idea?"

"Absolutely. I trust your mother, I especially trust in her judgment. I also trust that Alicia will remember that she has more to lose than gain if she defies the decision that was reached."

Shanelle nodded.

"Now onto more exciting things. Like your graduation next week."

Marquise snickered.

"I am so excited. I can't wait."

"Same! We've been waiting for it and now it's here. How do you really feel?" she asked.

"Honestly, I'm relieved. It's been a long journey. But it's been worth it. And now by this time next week, I will have my degree in my hands. And then we and the kingdom will celebrate our favorite kingdom pastime."

"I know I'm so excited. I love seeing the palace and the orchard all decorated. And it'll be the first Winter Festival that the boys will be able to participate in."

"They were at the one last year."

"They were with Nina all day. She kidnapped our boys."

"Not that you minded my Queen."

"True."

"But you're right. They will have a blast."

"And of course, there's my favorite: the annual snowball fight."

Marquise raised an eyebrow at his wife.

"What do you have planned for this year, my love?"

"Battle of the sexes!"

"You mean I get to throw a snowball at you?"

"No. It means you will finally be dethroned as the defending snowball fight champion."

Marquise snickered.

"May the best team win my Goddess."

"I know I will."

Marquise rolled his eyes good-naturedly.

Over the next few days, the couple spent time together before His Majesty had to get ready for his solo trip to the States. While he was excited to go, his children weren't. They had never been away from their dad for that long. So the Princess came up with a great idea for her and her brothers. They would go with him without him knowing. She pulled out one of her Daddy's biggest suitcases and did her checklist.

"Okay, boys! We have our snacks, our juice, and our chocolate milk! Now do you have your blankies?" Khari asked her brothers. Both boys held up their blankies.

"And you have your touchdown bears?"

The boys held up their bears.

"Alright! Let's hop in!"

All three climbed into the suitcase and shut it.

"Okay, boys! We gotta be quiet so Daddy doesn't know! So shhh!" she whispered to her giggling brothers. Who tried their hardest to quiet down so they wouldn't get caught. Sadly they were caught when their parents couldn't find them and looked all over the palace for them. But they discovered the suitcase they were hiding in.

"Babe?" Shanelle asked over her shoulder.

"Yeah?" Marquise replied.

"Is this one of your suitcases?"

Marquise looked at it.

"Yeah, but I never packed this one."

"Then why is it closed?"

Marquise went to open it when he heard familiar giggling. He shook his head and started to chuckle.

"What's so funny?" Shanelle asked.

"I just figured out why we haven't been able to find the children."

"What do you mean?"

"Take a listen."

Shanelle leaned in and heard the same giggling.

"No, they didn't."

"Yes, they did."

Shanelle shook her head with a smile.

"Let's play along."

Shanelle nodded.

"There's my suitcase! I've been looking all over for it!"

"Good, I'm glad you found it. Now you and my dad can go on your trip."

"Yup now let me just zip it up."

The giggling intensified when he zipped up the suitcase.

"Say, my love, have you seen the children?" he asks.

"No, I can't say that I have," she replied.

"Oh well! I'm sure we'll see them before I leave."

Marquise picked up the suitcase and carried it down with the children giggling inside and him and Shanelle snickering the whole time. When they got to the main hall where Shanelle's parents were waiting they heard the giggling.

"What in the world is going on?" Damien asks.

Shanelle told them and asked them to play along.

"Well, Your Highness. I believe we're ready to leave." Marquise said to Damien.

"Yes, my King. It seems that we are ready. It's just I haven't seen the kids. Shantel and I looked everywhere for them."

"Y'know that's funny! Their mother and I were just saying the same thing."

"Where could those kids be?" Shantel asked.

Shanelle just shook her head laughing softly. That's when Margo walked up.

"Are you ready to leave my King?" she asked Marquise.

"Yes. We will be leaving shortly. Do me a favor. Take a listen to the suitcase."

Margo took a listen and heard her grandchildren giggling.

"Why are they in the suitcase?" Margo asked.

"Because apparently, they think they're going with me. So we're playing along." Marquise whispered.

Margo nodded.

"Mama, since you're here have you seen the children?" Marquise asked.

"No, I haven't. I thought they were with you and their mother." Margo replies.

"No. No one has seen them. Damien and I can't leave without saying goodbye to them. Oh well! Let me take my suitcase and Damien and I can take our leave."

"That's an unusually large suitcase, my son. What do you have in it?" Margo asked.

"You know I don't remember what I packed in it. Let me check."

Marquise opened the suitcase and there were his children and their giggling.

"There you are! What are the three of you doing in my suitcase?" Marquise asks.

"We don't want you to leave so we're going with you Daddy," Khari replied.

His heart exploded as he helped them out of the suitcase and sat down with them.

"My love you know you and your brothers can't go with me."

"But!" Khari pouted.

Marquise put a gentle finger to her lips.

"My love. I love you and I love Zyon and I love Kylo. But you three are too young to go with me."

"But we don't want you to go Daddy."

"I know you don't. I won't be gone long."

He hated seeing the looks on their little faces.

"I'll see you three Thursday."

"It's not the same Daddy," Khari said, shaking her head sadly.

"Dada..." Zyon whined.

Marquise took a deep breath.

"If it's one thing you three know how to do perfectly, it's tugging at Daddy's heartstrings."

He gathered the three of him in his arms.

"I love you. I love each of you. I don't like to leave you but sometimes Daddy has to. But I promise I will never ever be gone for very long."

Marquise looked at his children and smiled before clearing his throat and singing softly.

"Come now my sweet babies please don't cry. Let's wipe those tears from your eyes. Let's see those smiles so they brighten up the day. Always remember no matter what, Daddy is never too far away."

He held his children close before Kylo looked up at him then went and grabbed his blankie.

"Blankie!" he said as he held it up to his father.

"You want me to take it with me?" Marquise asked.

Kylo's only answer was a smile.

"Thank you, my love. I will take great care of it."

Zyon followed suit by giving his father his touchdown bear.

"My! I'm being spoiled today. Thank you."

He held his two boys close to his chest.

"My two sweet loves. I love you both more than I could ever tell you. I will see you both soon. I won't be gone for long."

He kissed them both on their foreheads before sending them to their mother and turning his attention to his daughter.

"Come here, my love."

Khari stood in front of her father with a sad look on her face.

"Are you mad at me Daddy?" she asked.

"Never. You are allowed to feel whatever it is you feel. I could never fault you for that." he replied.

"So I'm not in trouble?"

"No. You and your brothers kinda gave yourselves away when you first started giggling. We couldn't help but play along."

"You knew that we were in the suitcase the whole time?"

"Yes, my sweet one. We did. Your mother and I couldn't help but play along."

"Oh..." Khari said dejectedly.

Marquise tilted his head before gently tilting her chin up.

"You have no idea how much I adore you. I adore the way you love your little brothers. I know why you feel the way you do. I used to feel that way whenever my mother had to leave for a short period."

"Really?" she asked.

"Yes. When I was 8 years old, Mother had to go on a leaders fellowship to Namibia for three months and I missed her terribly. Every day I would ask everyone on her staff when she was coming back."

"You did?" Khari asks.

"Ohh yes. Every single day until your grandmother returned." Margo replied.

Khari giggled.

"My point is I know what it feels like. I know you don't want me to go but I have to. It will only be for a few days."

Khari looked down at the ground. He pulled her close to him.

"Do you know what happens next Saturday?" he asked her.

"Your graduation?" she replies.

"Yes. Do you know why I'm excited about it?"

"Because you worked really hard for it?"

"Yes. But that's not why I'm excited about it."

"Then why Daddy?"

"Because you and your brothers will be walking across the stage with me when I get my degree."

Khari perked up.

"We will?"

"Yes. I asked if it would be okay and the committee I spoke to agreed."

Khari nodded.

"Look at me, my love."

Khari looked up at her dad.

"I will only be gone for a few days. I know you're sad but we'll be together again on Thursday."

"You promise Daddy?"

"I swear it on my heart, my life, and my soul. I will never be away from your side for too long."

Khari chewed her bottom lip and then nodded.

"Okay."

Marquise wrapped his daughter in a loving hug as he stood up.

"I love you, I adore you. My sweet beautiful Princess."

Khari gave him a big kiss on the cheek.

"I love you too Daddy. I'm sorry we tried to trick you."

"No need to apologize, my love. Now go to your mother. Okay?"

Khari nodded.

"I will call you and your brothers tonight okay?"

"Pinky promise?" she asked, holding up her pinky.

"Pinky promise," he replied, hooking his pinky to hers.

With a soft kiss on her forehead from her father Khari was at her mother's side. Marquise stood up and looked to his father-in-law.

"Your Highness, NOW we can leave."

"Of course," Damien replied with a small chuckle.

With final goodbyes to their loved ones. Marquise and Damien were soon on their way to the airstrip. Once in the air Marquise silently became curious about his children's plan to go with him.

"Something on your mind son?" Damien asked.

"Just wondering where Khari got the idea to pack herself and the boys in a suitcase," Marquise replies.

Damien chuckled.

"From me. It's an old story that I told her when she asked me if her mother had ever gotten into big trouble as a child."

"What do you mean?" Marquise asked.

"Shanelle was 4 years old when she didn't want me to leave on a trip home. So she packed herself into my suitcase and fell asleep."

Marquise snorted.

"And I nearly missed my flight because Shantel and I couldn't find her." Damien replied.

Marquise nodded with a smile.

"I guess she thought she'd succeed where her mother failed." Damien quipped.

"She would have if she and the boys weren't giggling so much."

Damien simply nodded with a smile.

His Majesty and Prince Damien's US trip began when they touched down in Tennessee. There they were taken across the state line into Kentucky, where they visited His Majesty's Bourbon Distillery. They toured the facility and even got to taste the special holiday blend. As well as touring the four adjacent horse farms. That's where His Majesty got the idea for the name of the distillery. Terre de Chevaux. Which means Land Of Horses.

That night he called to check in with his children.

"Hello, my little ones! I miss you so much."

"We miss you too Daddy. How is your trip?" Khari asked while holding the phone so her brothers could see.

"It's been fun. I toured the distillery and the horse farms around it and do you know what I found out?" Marquise replied.

Khari shook her head no.

"I met some of the horses. And I learned their names."

"What are their names?"

"One is named Esther after my grandmother. Another is named Victor after my uncle. And the last one is named Ellie."

"Like Grandmother?"

"Exactly my love."

"Wow! Will we get to meet them, Daddy?"

"I hope so."

"Where do you go next Daddy?"

"I will go to the capitol in Washington D.C. tomorrow, where I will get to speak to Congress, and then your grandfather and I will be in Boston. Where I will see you three Thursday."

"We can't wait! Right boys?" Khari asked her brothers who were trying to take the phone from her.

"It's time for bed my loves."

"Okay, Daddy. We'll talk to you tomorrow."

"I love you all. So much."

"We love you too! Right boys?"

Later after putting their children to bed, Shanelle had a quiet conversation with her husband.

"Finally! They're all down for the count."

Marquise snickered.

"I miss you. You know that right?"

"Yeah, I know. I miss you too, handsome. But like you told the kids we'll see each other Thursday."

"Indeed we will. It's amazing that we've been to Boston twice in one year."

"I know you should go play the numbers while you're in the States."

Marquise snorted.

"Yeah sure I will."

Shanelle let out a small yawn that she failed to hide.

"Go to bed, my Queen. I'll text you in the morning."

"Alright. Goodnight Handsome."

"Goodnight my Goddess."

"I love you."

"I love you too Shanelle."

After blowing her husband a small kiss, Shanelle went to bed. The next morning, His Majesty touched down in Washington D.C. to re-sign the Cordon-America Act of 1985. After signing the act Marquise got the chance to speak to Congress. Something he only ever dreamed about.

"Good Morning everyone! My what a dream come true this is for me. I actually get to speak to Congress as a whole. If only my Poli Sci professor could see me now."

In his nearly 45-minute speech, Marquise highlighted the importance of the act and the continuation of the shared goal between his kingdom and America. A free, safe, and fair world for all to live in. After his speech, he and Damien toured The Library Of Congress, where he saw the original Declaration of Independence. Once the tour ended, they traveled to the Maryland National Cemetery so Damien could lay flowers at his in-law's graves.

"I haven't been here in a few years. It's good to see them." Damien said as he laid the flowers on each grave.

"Thank you for bringing me here. Shanelle talks about them all the time. Especially your former mother-in-law."

Damien snickered.

"Yes. Mom is where Shanelle gets her personality from. That Jamaican fire runs through my daughter's veins."

"And mine," Marquise added.

The two shared a chuckle. After a short flight that evening, His Majesty found himself back home in Boston and getting ready for his graduation. The next day, his wife, children, mother, and mother-in-law arrived from Cordonia. And he couldn't wait to hold his babies again.

"I've missed you three so much," he said as he hugged them.

"We've missed you too Daddy! How has your trip been?" Khari asks.

"It's been good but it's better now that you three are here. And just like I promised you, we're together again. And you and your brothers can explore the house." Marquise replied as he led his family into the living room. "But before that, I believe I have a few items to return."

He pulled out Kylo's blanket and Zyon's bear.

"I believe that these belong to the two of you."

Later that night after a big dinner and getting his children off to sleep. His Majesty went to check on his mother who was just settling into her bed.

"Are you alright Mama?"

"Yes, my love. I'm fine. I am perfectly happy."

"Happy eh?"

"Yes of course my son. By this time Saturday, you'll have your Doctorate in hand. And will be able to display it in your office back home."

Marquise chuckled.

"It means the world that you're here with me."

"It means the world to be here. To represent our kingdom and our family."

"It's funny. I look around this room and I can't help but miss Papa. I wish he could be here."

Margo took his hands in hers and looked at him with a warm smile.

"I know you do, my son. The last time I was here was with him when you earned your bachelor's degree. He would be thrilled to see you earn your Ph.D. As a matter of fact, the whole flight he would've had the children in stitches and excited about your graduation. But it's just Papa that you miss is it?"

Marquise took a deep breath.

"No. My heart aches for her. I miss her. I wish she could be here as well."

"She is here my love. She's so incredibly proud of the man you have become. She would be filled with such pride at all you have accomplished in your life. And so would Papa. They look down from heaven with smiles as bright as the sun and as wide as a Cheshire Cat."

Marquise shook his head with a smile before kissing her forehead softly.

"Thank you, Mama. You always know what I need."

She kissed his cheek.

"I'm your mother. I will always know what you need."

"Get your rest, Mama. I'll see you in the morning."

Margo smiled at him as he left the room and returned to the master bedroom where his wife was. He climbed into bed with her and wrapped himself around her.

"My big ass baby."

"I've missed you."

"I've missed you too but you are way too heavy. Now get off of me."

Tried as she might, but Shanelle could not get him off of her.

"Marquise...I...can't...breathe! Get off me!"

He finally let her go.

"Big ass creep!" she said as she caught her breath.

"Your big ass creep. Thank you."

"Yeah, yeah."

She snuggled into him.

"How are you feeling?" she asks.

"Relieved. It'll all be over soon. All the hours of study and presentation and research will have all paid off."

"Mmmhmm. And soon you will officially be a Doctor and a King."

Marquise snorted.

"Very funny."

"You love me."

"Indeed I do. I will say I can't wait to see our children walk the stage with me."

Shanelle shook her head with a smile.

"Their little cap and gowns came the day after you left. So Khari has been teaching the boys how to walk the stage."

"Please tell me you got it on video."

Shanelle handed him her phone.

"See for yourself, Your Majesty."

Marquise watched as his daughter tried to teach her brothers how to walk a graduation stage in hilarious fashion.

"Well...she tried."

"Yup. They are cute though."

"Very," he said with a small smile.

As he lay in bed with his wife, Marquise became contemplative.

"Penny for your thoughts?" she asks.

"My thoughts are worth more than all the literal gold in our vault. But since it's you, sure," he replied.

"What's really on your mind? Is it your mother?" she asks.

Marquise sighed.

"Yes. I can't help but wish she was here. I can't help but want her to be here. I want to see her celebrate with you, Margo, and your parents. And I want to see her standing behind our children. Cheering them on." he paused to clear his throat, "You would think that after 26 years my heart would have healed itself by now. But it hasn't. That void in my heart is still there. That need to see her, to be around her, to be able to hold her hand or hug her is still there. I just hope to God that I've made her proud."

"I know it is. And I know in my heart that you have made her proud. Everything that you've accomplished in and with your life has made her proud. This is just another accolade to add to the list of things that she's proud of you for."

He kissed her forehead softly.

"Thank you, my love."

"It's what I'm here for."

He smiled at her as he held her close.

That Saturday was the big day for His Majesty. After getting dressed himself, he hilariously got his children dressed in their caps and gowns. With both boys being so enamored with their caps. Once everyone was ready it was time to head to the university. Once they arrived Marquise took a very deep breath for this was it. Everything he'd worked for had led up to this very moment. And it was a moment that didn't disappoint.

He finally got to do the one thing he had been dying to do. Walk the graduation stage. But what made it even more special was his children walking with him. He was proud as they stole the show. Afterward, he found himself in his mother's arms.

"I am so proud of you, my love. So proud! You've done it, my boy! You've really done it!" Margo said proudly.

"Thank you. I'm still in shock but I am so thankful to have you here. By my side, to celebrate with me."

"My love, there is nowhere on this earth that I'd rather be. I got to watch you achieve yet another one of your dreams."

Marquise closed his eyes and laid his forehead against hers.

"Look at me, son."

He looked at her.

"I wholeheartedly believe that Eleanor is jumping for joy right now. She is elated that her son is not only a King but he's also now a Doctor. You are her greatest dream come true. Her smile is as bright as the sky and as wide as a canyon. And so is Papa. You know he is in heaven just bragging about his boy doing it yet again. Telling every angel he comes across that his son has become a Doctor."

He pulled her close.

"Thank you. For every single thing. I would not be where I am, I would not be the man I am, without you. Please don't ever forget that."

"I never have and I never will my son. Now go celebrate my love. Go on."

Later that night after hours of celebrating with his family. He spent time with the one he loves most, his wife. They were nestled together on the couch in the living room.

"I'm so proud of you. You know that right?" she asks.

He placed a sweet kiss on the palm of her left hand.

"I know. You've been one of my biggest cheerleaders throughout all of this. When I wanted to stop or give up you told me to keep going. Or else you'd slug me." he replies.

Shanelle snorted.

"Mission accomplished."

Shanelle took a look around the room.

"Our story began right here. In this house. On this couch because someone's big ass pulled his hamstring racing a bunch of teenagers."

He punched her.

"Ow!"

"That's what you get!"

"Jerk!" she hissed.

"Chicken, shrimp, or goat?" he asked.

"You're lucky I love you."

"I really am. Because at the time we got engaged, there was a part of me that feared you would've turned me down."

Shanelle took a deep breath.

"Please don't hate me for this."

"For what?" he asked.

"There was a part of me that wanted to tell you no. A HUGE part. I wanted to run away from you and not look back." she replied.

"Why didn't you?" he asks.

"Because I love you. That's why. I couldn't let you go even when my brain was screaming for me to do so. You showed me what true love is. You made a promise that you have never broken. You promised to love, protect, and nurture my heart and my love. And you have constantly and consistently kept that promise." she replies.

"And I always will. If you don't believe anything else from me, you can believe that."

Shanelle smiled at him as they continued to enjoy a quiet moment together. Once back in Cordonia, planning for the Winter Festival kicked into high gear. Crews worked overtime making sure every detail was perfect and to Shanelle's exact specifications. All the while Marquise had plans of his own.

With the palace being as big as it is, there is a lot of unused and mostly dead space on certain floors. So he decided to have three floors converted. One into a personal bowling alley. Another into a massive indoor ball pit and playground for his children. The final floor is the one he's most excited about, that floor will be an indoor laser tag arena. And it has to be tested out to make sure it's safe and ready for the barrage of kids and adults who will want to play. Because it will be open to his family and the staff and their families.

That Friday before the Winter Festival, Their Majesties hosted their family, both immediate and extended at the palace residence. While the children were having a time running around playing, Marquise pulled Logan aside.

"Come with me," Marquise said to Logan.

"Where we going?" he asks.

"It's a surprise. Trust me you'll like it." Marquise replied.

"Nope! You know I don't like surprises unless I'm in on them. So where are we going?" Logan asks.

"I'll show you when we get there," Marquise replied through clenched teeth.

"Ohhhh...okay Uncle Scar."

"Shut up and move Simba."

Marquise led Logan to an elevator and used a keycard to enter.

"Well, this is spooky..."

"Get in the elevator Logan."

Logan shot him a suspicious look before he and Marquise got into the elevator.

"Okay. I'm in the elevator. Now what?" Logan asks.

"Now we go down to the basement," Marquise replied.

"To your dungeon?" Logan asks.

"No. That's on the other side of the palace. And you'd have no access to that. But this is something else." Marquise replies.

They rode the elevator down and got off when it dinged. Once out of the elevator, they walked down a hall to a door with a keypad.

"What's behind the door?" Logan asks.

Rather than answer, Marquise smirked and then slid his keycard to open the door. When the door opened, Logan's jaw dropped.

"Welcome to my newest toy."

"What is it?" Logan asked.

"This is my brand new laser tag arena," Marquise replied.

"Laser...tag...arena?!"

"That's what I said."

"Dude! When the hell did you have time to do all of this?" Logan asks.

"Construction started back in May. And was completed after the boy's birthday. But it's still not quite ready yet." Marquise replies.

"What do you mean?" Logan asked.

"It hasn't been tested...yet," Marquise replies.

That's when Logan's grin widened.

"And who's going to be brave enough to test it out, sire?"

"Why we are, my good man!"

"Man! Let's go!"

The two suited up and spent a few hours laughing and having a good time in the arena. When they left both were buzzing.

"That was amazing. Thank you for sharing it with me. Even though you cheated half the time."

Marquise snorted.

"You're welcome. And thank you for coming. I'm glad you had a good time."

"I can't wait to tell my wife about it."

"As long as you don't tell the children. I want it to be a surprise for them."

"My lips are sealed, Your Highness."

When they got to the common area, their wives were enjoying a glass of wine.

"And just where have you two been the past few hours?" Shanelle asked them.

"Out." They both reply.

The wives looked at each other.

"Uh-huh. You two went to check out Marquise's laser tag arena, didn't you?" Bronwyn asks.

The men's jaws dropped.

"How do you know?!" they asked.

Bronwyn answered by pointing to Shanelle.

"How do YOU know?!" they asked.

Shanelle shrugged.

"I might've accidentally stumbled upon the construction site one day."

"You mean you were being nosy?" Marquise asks.

"It is my job to be," Shanelle replied.

Marquise groaned.

"Relax. Your kid doesn't know. I haven't told her."

Marquise visibly relaxed.

"I can't keep nothing from you, can I?" Marquise asked.

"Nope. Now move it, you two. We have a Winter Festival to get ready for tomorrow." Shanelle replied.

The next day was the day of the Cordonian Winter Festival. All of Shanelle's hard work and planning had finally come to fruition. Many enjoyed a plethora of winter activities. Including snowmobiles. Which Marquise, Logan, Branden, and Brayden took full advantage of.

"Alright, Brayden. We got a big job."

"What's that?" he asked.

"We gotta beat your dad and brother in the race," Marquise replied.

"Yeah yeah! Go super fast!"

"And do you know what we win when we win?" Marquise asked his nephew.

"What uncle?"

"Bragging rights my boy! Bragging rights!"

"Yay!"

"So ready...set..."

"VRRRROOOOOOOOOOOMMMMMMMMMMMM!"

"And we're off!"

While the dads and the boys enjoyed the snowmobiles, Shanelle took the girls ice skating out on the frozen pond.

After riding around on snowmobiles it was time for the main event, the annual snowball fight. That both royals were determined to win.

"Any last words before I take your title, Your Majesty?" Shanelle asked her husband.

"Keep dreaming woman!" Marquise replied with a smirk.

"I am so going to enjoy this!"

"You enjoy losing?...how very odd."

Once the trash talk was done, the whistle was blown and the fight was on. It was a battle of giggling proportions. With trying to take out one another.

"Will you hold still?!" Shanelle shouted at her husband.

"Why? So you can hit me?!" he replied.

"Yes!"

"No!"

The snowball fight was epic and ended in a draw. Which was a delight to all who participated, watched, and cheered. Before the event was over His Majesty decided to try his hand at axe throwing with Sam and a very animatedly drunk Logan.

"Uh, Logan?" Sam asks.

"Yeah?" Logan replied.

"How many of those have you had?" Marquise asked, pointing to the pint in Logan's hand.

"Including this one?" he replied before downing the rest of the pint, "eight."

Sam and Marquise looked at each other.

"You've had eight pints of Skullcracker Ale? Are you nuts? That stuff is powerful!" Marquise asked.

"Yeah, I know. Who knew you Europeans could make a strong ale?" Logan replied before grabbing an ax, "Now let's really have some fun!"

"Oh Dear God..." Marquise groaned.

"If he hits either one of us..." Sam warned.

"Noted."

Sam and Marquise stood way back and watched Logan toss the axe and wildly miss his first target.

"Missed it by an inch. Let me try again."

Logan tried again with Sam and Marquise looking on.

"How long are you going to let this go on?" Sam asks.

"Until either he runs out of steam or they run out of axes," Marquise replied.

"Which one is more likely to happen?" Sam asks.

"They run out of axes," Marquise replies.

"So we're gonna be here a while?" Sam asks.

"Yup so settle in my friend," Marquise replies.

Later that night after the Winter Festival had concluded, His Majesty told his wife what had happened at the ax throwing booth.

"Logan had how many pints?" Shanelle asks.

"You heard me. He had eight pints of Skullcracker Ale." Marquise replied.

"How did you let him drink that many pints?"

"First of all, I didn't let him do anything. He was already halfway through his eighth one when I got there. And second, saying you're great friends with the King will get you anything in this kingdom. Including eight pints of Skullcracker Ale. Especially when the limit is four pints."

Shanelle groaned.

"That hangover is about to be epic."

"Oh yeah. He's gonna be feeling it for days. But thank goodness there's a hangover cure."

"I can only handle three pints of Skullcracker Ale. I don't know how Logan managed to drink eight of them."

"Because he has an iron liver?"

Shanelle snorted.

"That's for sure."

"And how are you, my love? What was the final tally?" he asks.

"I'm good. I'm exhausted. Today was so much fun. And the money raised during the silent auction was enough to fund the Children's Fund. All in all, it was a great day. People had fun and that's all I care about. It's why I do this every year."

"I know and you do a brilliant job at this if I do say so myself."

"Careful Your Majesty. Your personal bias is showing."

"So? I'm allowed to brag about and celebrate my beautiful wife's accomplishments all I like. Thank you very much."

"Fine. Just one question."

"Hmm?"

"What are we doing for Christmas?" she asks.

"How about somewhere tropical?" he replies.

"Works for me!"

"I shall make our Christmas arrangements post haste."

"Yay!"

Just then there was an urgent knock at their bedroom door.

"Who in the world is that?" she asks.

"I'll go find out," he replied.

When he got up and answered the door, there was an attendant on the other side.

"Yes?" he asked as he stepped outside.

"Apologies for the disturbance this late Your Majesty but there is news out of Earl Amos's house." the attendant replies.

"What is it?" he asked.

"Earl Amos Barbaroux is dead." the attendant replied.

"What?!"

"He was stabbed to death in his office."

"What?! By who?"

"Lady Alicia, sire. From what I have been told they got into an argument and she stabbed him in the chest with a letter opener. Repeatedly."

"Where is she now?"

"An arrest warrant was issued for her but she's taken refuge at the old palace but that's all I know at the moment."

Marquise groaned.

"Great...thank you for informing me. Please keep me informed of any further details."

"At once sire."

When Marquise entered the bedroom, he had an annoyed look on his face.

"What's that look for?" Shanelle asks.

"Earl Amos is dead," he replied.

"Lady Alicia's husband?"

"Yes. She stabbed him to death."

"What?! Why?"

"I don't know yet. But I will find out. Just not right now."

"What happens to his estate in the meantime?"

"It goes to their oldest daughter."

"Do you know where she is now?"

"Hiding out at your palace to avoid arrest but that's as far as I've gotten."

"She won't be there for long. I'll put the call in to have her removed from the property. I will NOT be sheltering her."

"You're not. Her step-sister is."

"I don't care about her step-sister. Genevieve can kiss my whole ass. Alicia's gone as early as tomorrow morning."

Marquise smirked.

"So says the Queen."

"So shall it be."

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a-crepusculo · 1 year

Text

When It Rains (Ethan x MC)

Book: Open Heart Pairing: Dr. Ethan Ramsey x Dr. Marchia Ramsey (F!MC) Premise: A little dance underneath the gentle drizzle. Rating / Category: General / Fluff Warning(s): None Word Count: 384 words Artist: @/artbyainna on Instagram

A plateau of dull grey sat above them, large clouds huddled together as they walked down the narrow streets of Paris. It was quiet down there, with only the discordant rumbling of thunder as their companion, getting louder and louder. As the fresh scent of earthiness galloped with the winds, they are reminded again about the oncoming rain that was about to fall.

The couple quickened their pace, hoping to seek refuge as soon as possible. Warm lights guided them to their next destination—a place that was merely a few meters ahead, couple minutes away.

Yet, they were too late.

Marchia looked up, the dark sky drumming with the anticipation of release. Soon enough, droplets of water poured on to the pavements, singing an enchanting serenade to those who are willing to listen. A harmonic, gentle tune that soothes the mind, mends the soul.

And all of the sudden, she halted.

Her right hand, locked in with his, pulled Ethan’s body to an abrupt stop. He turned to face his wife, thoroughly confused and intrigued to find the reason behind this act.

What he saw, however, took his breath away.

Her rose cheeks gleamed, lips casting a smile that would turn his stomach upside down. Pearls of water run through her gold dusky hair, slowly trickling downwards to reach her dress. The white chiffon material became lightly soaked under the drizzle, translucent, outlining the perfect symmetry of her sylphlike figure.

Surrounded by an ethereal glow, Ethan was blessed with the glorious view of his Queen, the ruler of his heart.

He moved closer, placing one hand on her hips, and another on the nape of her neck. Glued together, his thunderous ocean eyes locked with Marchia, letting himself drown in the depths of her emerald forest—feasting in the irrefutable existence of her beauty.

“Kiss me,” she whispered.

Without any preamble, he granted her simple yet tantalizing wish. His grip around her tightened, then in one swift movement, he swirled her petite body. A short squeal escaped her, followed by her signature giggles. As cliché and cheesy as it sounds, Ethan could not wait to capture her lips and taste her once more.

Because he was all hers, until the end of time.

A/N: Yes, I’m still seriously in love with this art that Ainna made, and I can’t stop looking at it. No amount of words in the dictionary could describe how freaking obsessed I am with this!!! 🤍😭

#open heart #ethan ramsey #open heart choices #choices open heart #dr. ethan ramsey #ethan jonah ramsey #open heart fanfiction #open heart fanart #oph fanfiction #oph fanart #playchoices #pixelberry #choices fic writers creations #cfwc fics of the week #fics of the week #Ethan x Marchia

73 notes · View notes

aprilchallenge · 1 year

Text

Fics of the Week

Open Heart

Paring: Ethan Ramsey x (MC) Kaycee

Choosing you 🌺 @jerzwriter

Pairing: Sienna Trinh x Max Valentine (M!OC)

New York Moment 🌺 @liaromancewriter

Pairing: Ethan Ramsey x F!MC (Kaycee)

A different fate… 🌺 @jerzwriter

Pairing: Tobias Carrick x F!MC (Casey)

Worth the wait 🌺 @jerzwriter

Pairing: Tobias Carrick x F!MC (Casey)

We’re having a baby… 1/2 🌺 @jerzwriter

Pairing: Tobias Carrick x F!MC (Casey) Feat: Bryce Lahela

Any day… 🌺 @jerzwriter

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

An early morning 🌺 @storyofmychoices

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

Other character: Malia Lahela (F!OC)

Our Future Doctor 🌺 @storyofmychoices

Paring: Ethan Ramsey x f!OC (Tatum Erikson), with special appearances by Tobias Carrick and Julian Santiago (m!OC)

Heads up 🌺 @txemrn

TRR & TRH

Pairing: MC is widowed, Past Pairings Riley x Nico (Riley x M!OC) , Past Pairing of Liam x Riley

Where do we go from here? 🌺 @bebepac

Series: Part 8 of the Cordonian Arrangement.

Pairing: None - mostly Liam and Hakim bonding, mentions of Hakim and Constantine's friendship

Legacies 🌺 @lizzybeth1986

Chapter 1: The Statues

Pairing: Liam Rys x F!MC Riley Brooks-Rys, OTP ‘LiRi

Cappadocia 🌺 @tessa-liam

Pairing: Liam x MC (Phoebe Summers)

The Start of Forever 🌺 @liaromancewriter

Wake the dead

Pairing: Eli Sipes; Jim, Florence & David Sipes (his family)

A Mother‘s Journal - Part 4 🌺 @jerzwriter

Red Carpet Diaries

Pairing: Thomas Hunt x Alex Spencer (F!OC)

Distraction 🌺 @theartoflovingthomashunt

Edits & Artwork

Olivia Claire Hadley

Yellow 🌺 @storyofmychoices

Characters involved: Cassie Valentine (F!MC), Max Valentine

Reminiscing 🌺 @liaromancewriter

Pairing: Ethan Ramsey x Victoria Clarke

Chilled Sundays 🌺 @potionsprefect

Characters involved: Sadie Oakley and Sienna Trinh

Sadie‘s Sunday Self-Care #28 🌺 @peonyblossom

Characters involved: A Picta edit of Aru and her college friend (Monica)'s photo taken by another friend (Apoorva)

Purple Pals 🌺 @choicesfanaf

#choices april monthly challenge #fics of the week #open heart #trr #wake the dead #red carpet diaries #the royal heir

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assorted-fics · 1 year

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Fics of the Week

Avatar: The Last Airbender

a nation, held by snowdarkred

It doesn’t take long for the rumors to start.

The Fire Nation prides itself on its civilization. It isn’t like the other, lesser, nations who throw their children away by sending them into war. Those uncultured and unfeeling savages who are destroying their own future faster than the Fire Nation can save them from themselves.

Every Fire Nation child goes to school. They learn reading and writing, the illustrious history of their country, and what will be expected of them as proper, upstanding Fire Nation citizens. They are to be protected, because children are the future glory of the nation.

The crown prince is thirteen when his father burns his face in front of an audience of hundreds.

All The Gentle Creatures by Haicrescendo

It’s said that you can tell a lot about a person by how they treat animals. Zuko may be loud and stubborn and sharp but all the woodland creatures love him.

The Good Vanilla by Haicrescendo

Sokka’s beautiful friendship with Zuko doesn’t start with breaking Dad out of jail. That’s just what he tells people.

Sokka’s beautiful friendship with Zuko started the day he realizes that he knows how to cook.

Feat. breakup cake, an attempted assassination, and eating out of the pan like dirty heathens.

Merlin

From the Start by CrzyFun

"You... assisted me in my fight against the bandits. For that, you have my thanks. I'm an honorable man and I repay my debts. Leave now and I will not hunt you."

"Assisted? I'm pretty sure I saved your life."

"I had the situation perfec- Are you trying to make me reconsider letting you go?"

It was supposed to be a one time thing. Arthur let the sorcerer run off with his life in return for him saving Arthur's. He had never expected to see the boy again, especially not only two days later in Gaius's chambers.

Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood

non native ceramics by silentwalrus

Ed opens up the catacombs on the first of September, clapping his hands and then watching the stones part like the swish of a theater curtain, pouring over each other to reveal the dark, blocky tunnels beneath.

An Interesting Trip by ShanaStoryteller

Everyone's born with their soulmate's first words to them written on their skin, and that should make things easy, but it really doesn't.

"Roy has alternatively despised his mark and clung to it like a lifeline. Colonel. Just one word, right at the back of his foot. His literal Achilles’ heel."

Spider-Man

of things unknown (but still longed for) by aloneintherain

Peter Parker can’t walk around with the same daemon as Spider-Man. But she’s going to settle one day, and there’s nothing he can do about it.

Guardians of the Galaxy

Silence is Golden by GloriousBlackout

Peter doesn't say a word during his first six months with the Ravagers. Yondu learns to adapt to having a silent shadow following him around.

Ain’t No Mountain High Enough by BeanieBaby

I kept him ‘cause he’s small and fits into spaces others can’t. Good for thievin'.

Harry Potter

Spider in the Roses by HauntingOpal

When Pansy Parkinson, Tracey Davis, and Daphne Greengrass start 4th year, they expect a silly tournament and more study time. Instead they get an abused Harry Potter who isn't a Potter at all, a mother who wants her son back, and a Slytherin Triwizard competitor who owes a debt to Harry Potter. Not to mention a twinkly eyed headmaster whose careful plans are being torn to shreds by very protective Slytherins.

House Proud by atolat

His house liked Draco Malfoy more than him.

All the Little Things by MyWhiteKnight

Oliver just wanted to beat the Slytherin in the House Cup this year, and find a good seeker to replace his friend and mentor, Charlie Weasley. Instead, he found the beginnings of an unbreakable bond between himself and one curly-haired witch.

What started as helping a lonely first year gain her bearings in a new world evolved into having their own analyst for Gryffindor. As time goes on, life develops in a way he never saw coming.

Series: we must unite inside her walls or we'll crumble from within by dirgewithoutmusic

stories for the ladies of hogwarts, who cry, waver, giggle, trespass, and who deserve our respect all the same

First Fic: overemotional: in defence of cho chang

Cho cried and she survived Pansy Parkinson's cruel jabs about a dead boy. She wept and she passed all her classes, kept up with Quidditch, watched fairweather friends scatter in the cold wind. She got very good at wordlessly summoning tissues and she joined the DA against her parents' wishes.

They had told her to behave, begged her, ordered her, as the threatening darknesses of the world clung close even inside Hogwarts, and Cho walked out to the little pub in Hogsmeade and wrote her name down on Hermione's list.

I hope someone in the DA told Cho that she ought to have been in Gryffindor.

I hope she laughed at them, hard.

Integrity. Truth. Honor. Dedication. These were the tenets of her House, of the blue and the bronze, the eagle called raven (called nerd, called stuck-up, called so many things that were not their names). Bravery was only one way to be a hero.

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coffeeheartaddict2 · 11 months

Text

Everybody hurts Sometimes (10/18)

Fall from Grace

Book: Open Heart (AU)

Pairing: Ethan Ramsey x f!MC Casey Valentine

Category: Angst

Rating: Mature

Warnings: Language, mentions of sexual activity, workplace bullying

****trigger warning- this series deals with issues of abandonment and addiction****

Word count:2971

Summary: Casey returns to work part time. June’s scheming and harassment of Casey is found out and punished.

Disclaimer: characters belong to Pixelberry

Authors note: For those who have been baying for June’s blood this is your chapter.

💋💋💋💋💋💋💋💋💋

It was the first day back for Casey. She was a tumult of emotion. She was excited to be back at work, nervous about being back especially on the seventh floor but the main thing that Casey was most nervous about was being open about their relationship. It had already been HR approved, Naveen approved and her and Ethan had agreed to go public but she still could not help but feel nervous. The biggest source of nerves was coming in the form of what June Hirata would do.

It started off as a normal day, morning announcements, rounds, then a team meeting. Casey had gone better than she thought she would mentally, she did wonder if having no patients on the seventh floor was the main reason but it did not shake a sense of foreboding. The team had a few cases they were working on when Casey had returned so Ethan and Casey decided to wait until they had cleared the cases until they disclosed to the rest of the team but every time she saw June she felt that she was under more scrutiny than before.

Casey survived the few days she was working. She went to Ethan’s at the completion of the shift.

“You have seemed troubled the last few days Casey” said Ethan as he handed her a glass of scotch. “Is everything ok?”

Casey took a sip before she spoke.

“Work has been fine, in fact I think I have gone better than what I thought I would but June has me feeling, well, uneasy.”

“What about June, if you want to put off telling the team…”

“No Ethan, let’s not, the longer we wait the more intelligence she can warp to her own agenda. She just seems to be scrutinizing me more than normal this week, it is just disconcerting.”

He kisses the side of Casey’s head, “is this why you have not stayed with me the last few nights?”

Casey kissed him, deeply, “I could never tire of staying with you but I also wanted to be with my friends and yeah a small part of me was not wanting to give June any reason to suspect anything.”

She kisses him again.

“Well I am glad you are here” he whispers before kissing down the column of her neck. They go multiple rounds and Casey falls into a deep sleep. Ethan felt bad for missing June appearing to being more attentive to Casey but he hoped that there was not too much she could do.

The second week of back to work begins, the team have cleared their cases. At the beginning of the meeting Ethan stated

“Myself and Casey are in a serious relationship. When Casey had her return to work meeting we disclosed it to HR. I have been approved by HR and Naveen to still oversee Casey’s work.”

Baz congratulated them both and June remained silent. They discussed some new cases and went on with their day.

June was shell shocked. At least she knew what the deal was with them now but him being her supervisor, well that was really pissing her off. It was HR policy that if there is a relationship with a subordinate there had to be alternate reporting in place. She wondered if Naveen was too biased to make such calls. Ethan was well entruly under his wing when she started at Edenbrook and she was shocked when there was no punishment for Ethan secretly treating Naveen which also irked her. She knew this would put a dint in her leadership ambitions but if she could make Ethan’s calls look bad by making Casey look bad….

Her mind was ticking. He may have ended their arrangement but she messaged Tobias.

“You will never guess, the relationship is legitimate but that is not all. She still gets to report to Ethan? Naveen must be too biased.”

Tobias received the message, intended to delete it but then he read it. She did not say anything of what she may get upto but he knew June and she had to be upto something. Instead of replying, he screenshot the message and sent it to Ethan.

“She does not say what she is upto but she seems pissed at this arrangement. I meant what I said the other week, you deserve all the happiness.”

Ethan was surprised to see a message from Tobias but was not surprised at what Tobias had surmised about June. He thanked him for the heads up.

Meanwhile, in an on call room near HR, June met with Kelly, an assistant in HR whom, like June was appalled that such a reporting arrangement existed. June was showing her appreciation for the file when Kelly asked if there was anything she could do. June doubled down in her appreciation and when Kelly recovered June stated, “I will let you know. Thank you for getting me this file.”

“My pleasure” said Kelly.

June left the room and had thoughts. There was still the photo she had but she still felt she needed more.

A week later, the team was seconded to Dagger Mountain. They were there for a patient whom the local doctor felt he could not help. All the physical signs appeared to be altitude sickness but they were not at an overly high altitude. They all decided to keep an eye on Paula in shifts. Ethan went first. Casey and Baz made s’mores while June watched her at the bar. Ethan then came down and approached Casey. It was also Baz’s turn to watch over Paula. Ethan and Casey made their way to Ethan’s room. Whilst walking Ethan vented more frustration about his dad and how he would not contact his mother. Casey asked him why his dad’s opinion about what he is not doing is bugging him. Ethan pauses. He knows confronting his past will enable him to move on and let go of the anger towards Louise but at the same time he does not want to find out she left because of him. He already spent much of his life feeling unworthy and afraid of love, not because of the highs but the painful lows and he knows that he could not bear it if she left because of him. He states that he feels disrespected and misunderstood. Casey smiled and nodded. She felt that Ethan was holding back but she left it there, after all if Ethan wanted to tell her more he would in his own time.

They enter the suite. He places his hands around her waist and starts kissing her neck.

“Alone at last” he whispers into her ear before continuing to kiss her.

Casey can already feel a familiar sensation pooling at her centre.

“It is so pretty, despite the storm.”

“Stay with me Casey”

“Afraid of storms?”

“No, I want to be with the woman I love.”

“I have a few hours to my shift, what do you want to do to me?”

He walks her over to the bed, taking her dress off in the process. He turns her around and places both hands above her head against the post. He kisses her hungrily.

“I want to make love to you and worship you as you should.”

Casey’s breath hitches and he kissed her again. He kisses down her body, the sensations causing Casey to moan. He finally works his way to her core and wastes no time. The first contact elicits a moan mixed with a scream. He keeps one hand on her waist and the other massaging her breast. Casey is so sexually stimulated that she can not form words. The onslaught with his tongue becomes relentless and Casey gets light headed and starts to clench. She mewls in protest when the hand massaging her breast stops but when he inserts two fingers all she can do is mutter fuck under her breath before moaning. His tongue moves to her swollen clit. Casey starts to clench hard. Ethan tells her to come and she does, screaming. She goes limp and Ethan catches her. He lays her on the bed to let her recover. He makes love to her twice before she has a nap before her shift with Paula.

Unbeknownst to them June had slipped into the room next door and had recorded what was happening. June’s mind went to replicating the recordings and playing them and making false complaints. She smiled and messaged Kelly and told her the plan.

The next day came and they were back at Edenbrook . The altitude sickness symptoms seem to have disappeared. They run tests. Casey makes some extra observations about how attentive her son is. Casey checks in on her patients while she is waiting for the test results.

Meanwhile June meets up with Kelly. She listens to June’s recording. She states that it is doable. They make plans to meet up to replicate some of what they heard. Kelly also states she could also circulate some rumours also which would play into the plan for June to get the team. June smiles and makes plans get the plan into action.

The test results for Paula come back and Casey notices Lithium in the blood work. She spoke to Timothy. He told her how her moods were quite varied and unpredictable but his mum would not see a doctor about it. A friend of his at school, who suffers bi-polar cut his medicine and Timothy hid it in the food or in her tea. Casey explained how the lithium interacted with the ibuprofen. They then went to Paula to explain to her what was happening. Paula was relieved to know what was happening and Casey gave her information for mental health support services and a referral for a doctor.

Casey finished up and finishes her rounds for the day and heads back to the office. June and Baz are there and Casey fills them in. Casey was exhausted and June noticed that she looked tired. Casey stated that she was fine and left. Later that night June and Kelly did the recordings for their plan. June had not been so satiated sexually in a long time, that coupled with her plan to bring down Ethan and Casey, well she was euphoric.

The plan was a simple one, pre-recorded sex noises to be played on wireless speakers in random on call rooms where people whom were skeptical of Casey’s abilities would frequent. June would also monitor any downturns in Casey’s patients or when there appeared to be an intern doing her work more than normal and generate fake complaints from that. June also decided to use the photo that she took and anonymously send it to HR as a complaint.

Over the coming weeks Casey started to receive a few odd looks from various staff members. She found it odd but she was feeling good and was about to enter talks into coming back full time so she hoped that it was it. With all the odd looks there was gossip, and none of it was flattering towards Casey and also Dr Ramsey. Nurses were jealous that Casey was getting plenty of sex from Dr Ramsey, other attendings were jealous at the quantity and the quality. Complaints were slowly making their way to HR and June was ecstatic. What she had not counted on though was the gossip making its way to the gossip king of Edenbrook, Naveen. He was shocked at what he was hearing. He knew that they had been together for awhile and only disclosed recently but he knew Ethan would not partake as regularly as gossip was stating on hospital grounds, not because he valued his privacy but because he had his boundaries and so did Casey. He contacted Anita in HR. She told him about the complaints she had received. She had looked into them but could not find any evidence to back up any of the claims. He looked at the times and days and who the complaints were coming from. He also saw the photo of the kiss. He found the allegations with that complaint rather dubious also. Naveen was able to work out the next complaint was due and roughly where. He made his way to the fourth floor. He spotted Dr Rochford and heard the noises coming from the on call room. Naveen knocked loudly. There was no sign of any noises of covering up coming from within. He was surprised to find the door was unlocked but called out anyway. The room was empty except for a phone and some speakers. Naveen was appalled that someone would do this. He paged Anita down. Kelly saw Anita leave, she messaged June as she followed. She made her way to the fourth floor and spotted Naveen and Anita looking at the speakers and phone. Kelly messaged June stating the plan is up.

June was with patients so she missed the messages. It was not until she got a page to go to Naveen’s office that she began to think something may have been up.

She made her way to the admin floor and Kelly was outside. June was surprised to see her. Kelly tells her that Naveen and Anita found the set up on the fourth floor. June sat down. We are screwed aren’t we.

“I think so.”

Naveen’s assistant states that she can go in. They enter, Naveen looks pissed, Casey and Ethan are there, Ethan has his poker face on but CSey is upset.

Naveen launched straight in, telling how he had heard some unfavorable gossip. How he then went to Anita and saw the complaints and how there was very little to substantiate them. He then looked at the times and the locations and went to the fourth floor and that is where he found the phone and speaker. He went to to the other locations in the complaints and found similar set ups.

“What does this have to do with me, Naveen?” Interjected June.

“Funny you should ask me. I went to security to see if we could find anything suspicious. Not long before all the complaints, either yourself or Ms Anderson here were recorded entering and leaving the on call room and on several occasions, both of you were seen entering and at a much later time were seen leaving, somewhat very satisfied and disheveled I might add.”

“That does not prove anything Naveen, you know that.”

“Oh so the disdain you have shown Casey since she started on the team, the scheming to find out the deal with them, involving Dr Carrick in your scheme…shall I…

“How the fuck did you know Tobias is involved?” Exclaimed June.

At this point Ethan spoke. Right so you did not message Tobias after myself and Casey disclosed to the team that the relationship is legitimate and accuse Naveen of being too biased?” Ethan showed June with the message from Tobias. She could not form words.

“Ethan and Casey have told me that you have been questioning the legitimacy of any calls that have been made in regards to Ethan and Casey. What you have been doing June is a form of harassment. All calls I made, from instilling Casey onto the team, to giving my overall approval into keeping Ethan as Casey’s supervisor were my own decisions. Before Ethan’s sabbatical I even offered to oversee Casey’s work so they could continue in a relationship without ending it to avoid you overseeing Casey.”

“Why was I not asked to oversee Casey initially!” Asked June.

“June, you know how rabid the I slept my way into the team camp was when Ethan went on sabbatical. I also knew you were in that camp June, how would I know that you were going to be impartial?”

“And Ethan is?”

“Yes,” said Ethan, “Despite our secret relationship and treating Naveen, I was able to keep it out of the results for the competition. You know the solves Casey has done, and how many of them had minimal help from me. So I ask you, how have I been biased?”

June was stunned into silence.

“I am angry June, despite you stalking your way onto the team you did do well but this persistent campaign against Ethan and Casey, it is harassment and dare I say bordering on sexual given the nature of the recordings you used. I know you are ambitious but this has been grossly unprofessional.” Stated Naveen “There is no room for such conduct in this hospital. You, Dr Hirata,effective immediately are terminated from your employment.”

“And before you can ask where are my warnings,” said Anita, “there is written into policy exemptions and what yourself and Ms Anderson have been doing is an exemption. Both of you are terminated. We will be in touch to sort out paperwork.”

June is shocked.

“Get out of my office and Hospital please.”

June leaves and Casey finally let’s go of a breath she had been holding.

“Thank you Naveen for not believing the worse,” said Ethan. “It means more to me, and I presume Casey that you have our backs.”

“Of course Ethan, now you two get back to work.”

“With pleasure," says Casey.

Not long after June was contacting Kenmore to see if she could work there but she was told that there was no position for her. She was annoyed and went home to figure out her employment.

That night, Casey was at Ethan’s. Casey was relieved that June was gone, she was appalled too at the lengths she was willing to go too. They enjoyed just being, because neither knew how soon it would be before Ethan was confronted by his past and neither know how that was going to impact not only him but them.

————

Authors note: the pain and the gist of the request that this series is born from will be from the next chapter onwards. I wanted to set up a different universe where things were appearing great between them and how the lack of closure can catch up.

Tagging: @jerzwriter @genevievemd @jamespotterthefirst @cariantha @potionsprefect @liaromancewriter @alj4890 @youlookappropriate @a-crepusculo @crazy-loca-blog @bex-la-get @peonierose @trappedinfanfiction @tessa-liam @ofmischiefandmedicine @schnitzelbutterfingers @binny1985 @lucy-268

@openheartfanfics @choicesficwriterscreations

#open heart #ethan ramsey #choices fanfic writers creations #fics of the week #Casey Valentine #June Hirata #au #choices #open heart choices #open heart fan fic

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potionsprefect · 2 months

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Big Dreams

Pairings: Ethan Ramsey x Victoria Clarke

Word Count: 1k

Summary: Luke and Lily have big ambitions for when they are older

Rating: General Audiences

Category: Fluff

“Mommy Mommy Mommy!” Luke ran into the living room, Lily not far behind him. “Is being a doctor hard?”

“Well.” Victoria dramatically put her book down. “There’s a lot of blood. And I mean a lot. And guts.” She grabbed her twins. “And gore.” She tickled them.

“Mommy stop!” Lily giggled. “Luke and I have decided that we want to be like you and Daddy.”

“So you’re going to eat all your greens and do your homework?” Victoria asked.

“On second thought. We’ll have to think about that.” Luke said.

“No! We said we would agree to whatever she said.” Lily pulled on Luke’s arm.

“But I don’t like vegetables!” Luke said.

“Well if you don’t eat your greens then you can’t become a doctor. Eating your greens is good for you.” Victoria raised an eyebrow.

Luke thought about this for a moment. “Okay maybe I will eat vegetables.”

“Mommy will you play Doctor with us?” Lily asked.

“Of course. What would you like me to do?” Victoria smiled.

“You have a poorly tummy.” Lily said getting Victoria to lie back against the cushions.

“I see. And how have I poorly tummy?” Victoria asked.

“You….” Luke trailed off before an idea popped into his head, eyes wide and smiling. “You ate one of Daddy’s pancakes!” He grinned.

“I see, and what treatment do you recommend for me?”

“Well firstly.” Luke pulled out his doctor kit and put on his stethoscope.

“Hang on.” Victoria sat up and then stood up.

“But Mommy-“

“Wait I promise you’re going to like this.” Victoria smiled. She headed upstairs into the home office and pulled out two white coats. They were very big but she figured Luke and Lily wouldn’t care. She headed back down the stairs.

“White coats!” Luke held out his hands.

“You should look like proper doctors.” Victoria helped them put the white coats on.

“It’s so big.” Lily giggled.

“Okay, I’ll lay back down now.” Victoria sat back on the couch and laid against the cushions. “I’ve eaten one of Daddy’s pancakes and it’s made me very sick.” Victoria coughed dramatically.

“Let me listen to your heart!” Luke placed his stethoscope on Victoria’s chest. “It’s beating very fast! Is that a good thing?”

“Yes. It means my heart is doing exactly what I want it to do.” Victoria smiled.

“Now you’re tempy.” Lily said. Victoria stifled a laugh. Lily still could not pronounce the word properly.

“And what does my temperature show?” Victoria asked.

“You’re hot! You must rest.” Lily said.

“I see. But my stomach still hurts.” Victoria replied.

“You need medicine!” Luke ran into the kitchen and came back with a glass of water in his Spider-Man cup. “Drink this! And eat this!” He held up some chocolate.

“I’m so glad I have the best doctors in the world looking after me.” Victoria grinned.

Luke and Lily grinned back, they always loved it when their parents complimented them.

The front door opened and a voice called out, “Hello! Anyone home?”

“Daddy daddy daddy!” Luke and Lily ran into the hallway, their excited voices giggling as they talked to Ethan.

“Where’s Mommy?”

“We’ve been playing doctors. She ate one of your pancakes and has a poorly tummy.” Luke said.

“I see. Shall we go and see how Mommy is?”

Victoria could hear footsteps enter the living room.

“Did we make Mommy feel better?” Lily asked.

“You should ask Mommy that.” Ethan chuckled.

“Mommy feels so much better thanks to you two.” Victoria held her arms out and Luke and Lily leant into her, soaking up the cuddles.

“I do know one thing that will help Mommy even more.” Ethan winked. He opened a door to allow Jenner in who came running into the room. “Cuddles with Jenner always made Mommy feel better.”

Jenner jumped up on the couch and snuggled beside Victoria.

“When I was pregnant with you two, Jenner rarely left my side. I think he could sense that Mommy needed a lot of cuddles and he was always on hand to give them.”

“That’s right.” Ethan smiled sitting down next to Victoria. He took a proper look at the twins’ white coats. “Now I see why you kept ahold of these.” He laughed.

“We’ll grow into them Daddy! When we’re doctors just like you, we’ll have our own coats!” Luke said.

“But I like this one! Maybe I can wear this one instead?” Lily looked at Victoria as she cuddled into her side.

“You’re more than welcome to. Although I did sew my name into them so you’d have to change that.” Victoria laughed.

“I like it. Why did you keep them Mommy?” Luke asked.

“I suppose I wanted something to show my children one day.”

“Is being a doctor hard?” Lily said.

“It can be. There’s a lot to learn and sometimes you’re not sure whether you understand it or not. But it’s all worthwhile when you can make someone feel better.” Ethan explained.

“It also requires a lot of dedication and hard work. Sometimes you have to make sacrifices in order to get there but all the work pays off in the end.” Victoria smiled.

“But I don’t like making sacrifices. I like everything how it is.” Lily said.

“Oh I know Lil. But the world out there is entirely yours to explore. Sometimes we have to do things we don’t really want to do. That’s what adulthood is all about. But it’s also a lot of fun too.” Victoria said.

“I want to stay small forever.”

“Me too! We can always play with toys as kids!” Luke said.

“Mommy and I play with your toys and we’re not kids.” Ethan chuckled.

“Technically we’re big kids at heart. And I never thought I would get to see Daddy play with a Barbie house so well done.” Victoria winked at Lily.

“Whatever it takes to put a smile on their faces.” Ethan laughed.

“We want to be like you when we are older. We want to make people feel better when they are feeling sick.” Lily said.

“Well that is amazing but we won’t force you to. You can be anything you want to be.” Victoria smiled.

Luke and Lily smiled up at their parents. Whilst Ethan and Victoria would never push the twins to follow in their footsteps, it warmed their hearts to hear how they wanted to be just like them.

If today was anything to go by their hearts were in the right places, and Victoria knew they would be brilliant doctors.

Ethan will never be allowed to forget that he can’t make pancakes lol

Tag list: @ohchoices @swiftiexstarwarssimp @queencarb @genevievemd @choicesaddict5 @schnitzelbutterfingers @gryffindordaughterofathena @sophxwithers @romewritingshop @coffeeheartaddict2 @mm2305 @nikki-2406 @maurine07 @nishas-paradise @replayfootsteps @mainstreetreader @lsvdw-blog @kiara-36 @quixoticdreamer16 @headoverheelsforramsey @shanzay44 @itsjustamesshonestly @josiesopenheart @mysticalgalaxysstuff @custaroonie @ireneadlerisseggsy @takemyopenheart @kachrisberry @rookiemartin @jamespotterthefirst @a-crepusculo @natureblooms24 @jerzwriter @wanderingamongthewildflowers @rosebudde @lucy-268 @liaromancewriter @bex-la-get @writer-ish @toadfrog26 @tessa-liam @peonierose @cariantha @kyra75 @openheartfanfics @choicesficwriterscreations

#open heart #ethan ramsey #ethan ramsey x mc #ethan ramsey x victoria clarke #playchoices #fanfic #open heart fanfic #open heart fanfiction #choices: open heart #fluff #choices fic writers creations #fics of the week

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choicesficwriterscreations · 2 years

Text

FICS OF THE WEEK UPDATE

Hello all! Thank you for continuing to tag us during the break week!

All fics that have been submitted through tonight are already queued and will be shared on our blog between now and Tuesday evening. Any fics that arrive from this point on will be scheduled to begin on Wednesday morning.

Prior to the break, we experimented with searching the main tags to post fics, even if CFWC was not tagged. This was a wonderful way for us to get new talent on board, but it was also a lot of work.

GOING FORWARD:

If you wish to have your Choices-related fic reblogged by CFWC and appear on the Fics of the Week List, be sure to tag @choicesficwriterscreations or DM the fic link to @jerzwriter

We will go through the main tags to look for fics when time allows. We can't guarantee that it will be every week as real life can get busy.

If we find a fic and the author has not been shared on CFWC before, we will reach out and offer to reblog. It will be explained that, in the future, they should tag CFWC or send the fic to @jerzwriter in order to be shared.

As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to send us an ask, or DM @jerzwriter or @lucy268-mod

#cfwc fics of the week #choices fic writers creations #fics of the week #update

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khoicesbyk · 5 months

Text

The Royal Romance.

Forevermore.

A/N: this is the next chapter in the journey of my OTP. Follow along for the fun.

Current Word Count: words. (may be slightly more or may be slightly less. Look, I stop counting after editing and re-editing and driving myself insane. 🤷🏾‍♀️)

If you’d like to be added to my tag list. Just reblog or dm me and I will gladly add you! 😁😘

This series is rated Mature and/or Explicit. It is NOT reading material that is safe for those under 18. Reader discretion is STRONGLY advised!

Tag List: @choicesficwriterscreations

Chapter 2.) The Family Rys. Part 1.

It was the end of Summer and the beginning of Fall in Cordonia. It was September and the running of the Cordonian Derby. For the first time in five years. Marquise was excited. He's always loved horses and horse racing and to have it come alive again made him giddy. He had spent the past few weeks meeting with organizers, vendors, horse owners, and staff at the racetrack and stables to make sure everything was in order and the event would go off without a hitch.

He was coming back from a visit to the racetrack when he was greeted by three of his favorite people, his wife and his boys.

“How was it?” Shanelle asked.

“Amazing. Everything is almost ready. The stables and the track are beautiful. I can't wait for everyone to see it.” he replied as he picked up his two toddling babies.

“Good. I know my dad is excited. He said the Derby was one of my grandfathers’ favorite pastimes.”

“I know. The last time I remember seeing him was at a race before he died.”

“I wish I could've been there. I'm sure I would’ve loved it.”

“Of course. And King Dominic would've had the winner of that race given to you.”

“Even though Edward and your father were both King at that point?” Shanelle asked.

“Trust me. Your grandfather didn't care who was King. That horse would've been yours. It's one of things I've always respected about him. You became his reason. It was no longer about him. It became about you.” Marquise replied.

Shanelle smiled wistfully.

“Walk with us?” Marquise asked.

They walked to the playground where the boys wobbled over to the swings.

“Looks like two little someones want their Daddy to push them.”

“They always want me to push them.” Marquise pouted.

“It's what you have those big ass arms for. Now move it. My boys are waiting.”

Marquise cut his eyes at her over his shoulder before going to push the boys.

While most noble parents took an off hand approach to raising their children Marquise and Shanelle do not. They make sure to always be present in their children's lives and if they have to leave them, they know that their kids are safely in the care of Margo and her family.

“There you are! And there's my two little turtle doves!” Margo announced. The boys perked up at the sound of her voice.

“Well Hi mom. It's good to see you too.” Marquise replies.

Margo waved him off and went straight for the twins.

“Y’know I'm starting to get the sense that you love them more than you love me.” Marquise said to his mother.

“I do love them more than I love you.” Margo replied. “You’re an adult son. A fully grown old spinster. Whereas my two precious turtle doves are not.”

Shanelle stifled her laugh.

“You do realize that I control your paycheck right?”

“No your daughter does and she’d be pissed at you if you ever withheld it from her grandmother,” Shanelle replies.

“Indeed she would.”

Marquise groaned.

“How many times do I have to tell you two that she doesn't get a say?”

Margo and Shanelle looked at each other.

“Son, how many times have you ever told your daughter no? Don't answer that because I can do that for you: none! You never tell her no.”

“Your mom has a point.” Shanelle added.

“There’s a first time for everything you know!”

“Not when it comes to your daughter.”

“I have to agree with my Queen. You will never ever be able to tell the Princess no.” Margo quipped.

Marquise cut his eyes at them both before he shook his head.

“How was your appointment mama?” Marquise asked.

“It went well. The newest scans show that the cancer has not grown any and Dr. Pollard thinks my treatments are doing wonderfully. He also believes that with things going so well I may be able to stop treatments soon.” Margo replies.

Marquise closed his eyes and let out a sigh of relief.

“Thank goodness,” Shanelle said.

Margo smiled at them both.

“You two have enough to worry about. You don't need to worry about me.”

Marquise pulled her close.

“Mama we have been over this. As long as I breathe I will always worry about and for you. Especially now. Now have you had a chance to rest?”

“Yes my son I have. And before you ask, yes, I've eaten as well.”

“I wasn't going to ask but thank you for telling me.”

“Suuuuure you weren't.” Shanelle quipped.

“How was your visit to the track?” Margo asked.

“Fantastic. The track and stables are beautiful.” Marquise replied.

“Good. I know how much this meant to you. And to Papa.”

Marquise smiled wistfully.

“God I miss him. I wish he was here. He would've gone with me and would've charmed everyone.”

“That sounds like George,” Shanelle added.

“And after you got back he would've told these two adorable little ones everything in stunning detail.” Margo quipped.

Marquise fixed his face to mimic George.

“You'll see soon my boys. There will be horses and women! Lots of women! Many for you two to choose from!”

Margo shook her head with a smile.

“How I put up with that man for so long even I will never know.”

“You did it because you loved him. Just like you love me.”

“Them son.” Margo corrected him, “I love them and their sister.”

“One of these days I'm gonna get you to admit it!”

“Don’t hold your breath son.”

Shanelle snorted just as one of the boys yawned.

“Uh oh! Sounds like nap time for these two.”

Marquise checked his Apple Watch.

“Yes, and it’s time to go pick Khari up from school.”

“Okay. I’ll go put them down for their naps. And you and Margo go get the Princess.”

“Deal.” Marquise replies before offering an arm to Margo, “Madam Geaneaux?”

“Merci mon roi,” Margo replied.

Soon they were off to get the Princess from school. While outside the school gates, Marquise took time to greet the other parents and speak with as many of them as always. When the gates opened up, all of the children came running out. Many were smiling and giggling as they ran to their parents. Seeing the children reminded Margo of when Marquise was little and waiting to be picked up from school.

“I remember a time when you were this little son,” she whispered to him.

He smiled at her.

“I know. I couldn't wait to see you and my mother.”

“I remember she used to always speak to everyone. Like you do.”

When Marquise looked up there was his little girl. Running straight towards him.

“Hi Daddy! Hi Grammy!” she said as she got to them.

“Hello my love. Did you have a good day at school today?” he asked.

“Uh huh. I even met our new Headmaster. She said you and her went to school together.”

“Really?” he asked.

“Yeah. Her name is Lady Josselyn Gallagher.” Khari replies.

Margo looked at her son.

“Gallagher? Like Lord Gallagher of Comery Isle?” Margo asked.

“Yes. Lady Josselyn is his oldest sister.” Marquise replied.

“Interesting.”

“That’s one way to put it.”

As soon as Marquise said that, Lady Gallagher came walking out of the gates and made a beeline for His Majesty.

“Your Majesty! It's great to see you. It's been far too long.”

“You as well my lady.” Marquise replied.

“I should have known this bright beautiful girl was your daughter,” she said, gesturing to Khari. “How have you been Marquise?”

“Your Majesty. My lady.” Marquise corrected her.

“Yes. My apologies. How have you been, Your Majesty?”

“I’ve been well, thank you. The last I heard you were teaching in Edinburgh.”

“Yes, I was. But I began to feel homesick and when Earl Rickards retired as Headmaster I applied for the vacancy. And the rest is history.”

“Well, it's good to have you here. If you'll excuse us.”

Lady Gallagher nodded politely.

“Of course my King.”

Marquise escorted Margo and Khari to the waiting motorcade. Once inside Khari spoke.

“Daddy can we stop for a snack?” she asked.

“Sure. What would you like?”

“Apple turnovers!” she replied.

“Mama?” he asks Margo.

“I agree with the Princess,” Margo replies.

“Turnovers it is!”

“And Cinnamon Rolls for Mommy. And maybe some apple juice for the boys,” Khari added.

“Very well my love.”

Marquise turned to the driver.

“Diego can you take us to Bookaholic Cafe please?”

Soon they were off to the cafe for snacks then to the palace. Later after helping Khari with her homework, playtime with the boys, a very animated family dinner, bubble baths, and bedtime stories, the Royals were relaxing by a fire in the Residence.

“Now this is more like it. A glass of Lowyn Black, a roaring fire, and my human pillow.” Shanelle said with contented sigh.

“You’re lucky I love you.”

“Shhhh! Less talkie more laying still.”

Marquise rolled his eyes good naturedly.

“I met Khari’s new Headmaster today.”

“Really?” Shanelle asked.

“Yup. Lady Josselyn Gallagher is the new Headmaster.”

Shanelle sat up slightly.

“Gallagher as in?” she asked.

“You sound like mom. But to answer your question, yes, THAT Gallagher. She's his oldest sister. She and I went to school together. In addition to being the ladies football captain, she was one of Naya’s best friends.” Marquise replies.

Shanelle groaned.

“Of course she was…is she going to be a problem?” Shanelle asks.

“No I don't think so. While her brother and sister-in-law may be a pain in the ass, she's not. At least she shouldn't be.” Marquise replied.

“Famous last words.” Shanelle muttered.

“Besides she knows she can be removed from her post as Headmaster.”

“She can?” Shanelle asks.

“Yes. The school advisory panel who hired her sent over her contract. There's a clause in the contract that specifically states that I can remove her if I find she's harmful to the children at the school.” Marquise replied.

“I wonder how her brother feels.”

“He’s probably thrilled. Although Josselyn had no interest in courtly politics when we were growing up, I'm sure she has mild interest now. Especially when her brother is a Head Of State.”

“I’m really starting to not like that family.”

“Josselyn is harmless. She used to have a crush on Bannon growing up but he always turned her down.”

“Smart man.” Shanelle quipped.

Marquise shook his head.

“Now onto more exciting matters. Like the Derby in two weeks. I'm so excited.”

“I know my dad is too. He and mama said they'd arrive with the kids.”

“Good. I'm excited for our children to see the stables and feed the horses.”

“I’m not too sure the boys will get it though.”

“Oh I’m sure they won't but at least they'll look cute.”

“True.”

The couple enjoyed the rest of their quiet evening together. Sipping wine and being snuggled up together. A few days later Shanelle found herself back home in New York for New York Fashion Week. She also took the time to spend time with her parents.

“It's good to have you home Butterfly,” Shantel said to her daughter.

“Oh please. You’re just excited that we’re going to the fashion show tonight.” Damian piped up.

Shantel rolled her eyes.

“Oh, hush! I could've gone for years if someone would've taken me, Mr. Ambassador.”

“If I've told you once then I've told you a thousand times Shantel, I am not sitting through five hours of ugly-looking walking planks wearing fishnet!” Damien fussed.

“Okay break it up you two! Besides, it's time for us to go mama.”

“I’m so excited.”

Damien shook his head with a smile.

“Enjoy my loves.”

“Byeeeee!” they said as they walked out the door.

They arrived at the Alexander McQueen show early enough to get backstage and meet a few of the models and designers, before taking their seats and being awed by the show. Later that night after Shanelle and her mother got back it was all Shantel wanted to talk about. Just as Shanelle got ready for bed, her father popped his head in to speak.

“Do you know your mother hasn’t shut up yet?” He asks.

Shanelle snorted.

“Leave her alone. She had an amazing time.”

Damien shook his head with a smile as sat down on the edge of her bed.

“I know. It’s all I’m going to hear about for the next millennia.”

“Stop it, Daddy.”

“Did you enjoy yourself my love?” Damien asks.

“I did. I enjoy the shows. Next year I’m going to Paris Fashion Week.” she replies.

“Please don’t take your mother. She’ll never let me live it down.”

“No promises.”

Damien smiled before leaving her bedroom. After a FaceTime call to her husband to tell her babies goodnight she went on to bed. The next few days were a blur of shows, shopping, and photos. Shanelle was asked by designer Christian Siriano himself to pose for his Haute Couture Line. But what she was most excited about was having a quiet dinner with her Dad.

“Have you had fun this week?” Damien asks.

“Have I ever! It's been so much fun.” Shanelle replies.

“Good. I'm happy you've had a blast. How are things in the kingdom?” he asked.

“Pretty good. Marquise has been interviewing people to fill an official position,” she replies.

“Oh? What position?”

“Education Minister.”

“Really?”

“Yes. Duke Francis has decided to retire at the end of the month. So this week he's doing interviews.”

“I wonder…” Damien trailed off.

“Wonder what Daddy?”

“I wonder if he'd offer your mother the position.”

“Uh Daddy Mom retired, remember?”

“You know your mother has never stayed away from the one thing she loves besides her family. She's been hosting workshops left and right for months.”

Shanelle smiled softly.

“I should've known that she'd never truly walk away. I'll text him and have him interview with her. More than likely the job is hers.”

“Of course. She's an educator at her core.”

“And the schedule will give her the flexibility that her teaching job didn't necessarily give her.”

“Besides, your mother never really liked Burgess. She always said he was too stuffy for the role.”

“In her defense, Mom wasn't wrong.”

The two laughed.

After spending time with her parents, Shanelle couldn't leave New York without seeing her nieces and nephew. As soon as she got to Dee's, AJ came barreling out of the house, nearly knocking Shanelle down. Not that she minded.

“TiTi!”

“Hi, pretty girl!”

“TiTi come to see me?”

Shanelle’s heart nearly melted.

“Yes, Precious, I came to see you.”

“Yayyyy! I missed you TiTi.”

“I missed you too sweetheart.”

When Shanelle looked up at the entrance Dee was standing there shaking her head with a smile.

“I swear you two are so dramatic.”

“Whatever! You’re just jealous!”

Shanelle put AJ down long enough to hug her mother.

“It's good to see you Nelle,” Dee said.

“Same love.”

The girls have been friends for years. It's always a good time when they get together. After playing with AJ until she fell asleep Shanelle got to see and hold her youngest niece and nephew and catch up with Dee.

“I swear nothing beats that new baby smell.”

“Unless it's a dirty diaper.” Dee quipped.

“True.”

The girls laughed.

“How are you doing babe? Really.” Shanelle asked.

Dee chuckled softly.

“You never stop,” Dee replies.

“How long have you known me, Ms. Day?”

“As you always say forever and a day. But to answer your question, I'm doing good. James and I are in a great place. We have these beautiful little ones. Our businesses are booming. We're good I promise.” Dee replied.

“Good. It does my heart good to see you happy.”

“Thanks, Nelle. I know you worry about me and trust me I appreciate it and you more than you know but I promise I'm okay.”

“Alright, love.”

“How are Marquise and the kids?” Dee asked.

“Driving me crazy. I'm kidding. The boys are toddling all over the place. Khari is bossing everyone in my damn house around. And their daddy is the same lovable beanstalk he's always been. We're good love.” Shanelle replies.

Dee laughed.

“Stop calling him that.”

“I will do no such thing! It's not my fault he's 6’5.”

“Be nice Nelle.”

“Oh, be quiet! The only reason you’re defending him is because he has Bookaholic cater his meetings on top of the fact he and Khari always go to the cafe after she gets outta school.”

“Exactly. He and your dad are two of my best customers. Marquise has had us cater all his meetings as well as catering breakfast and lunch for your palace staff since we opened there and your dad is always buying three dozen chocolate croissants and two large Dark Roast coffees with hazelnut cream and sugar from our flagship.”

Shanelle rolled her eyes good-naturedly.

“Okay. And when those two eat you out of stock don't dare you call me! Because I ain't got nothing to do with it!” Shanelle warned.

The girls laughed.

“Thank you for coming to check on us. I appreciate it so much.”

“Always my love. It's what family does.”

Dee hugged her.

“I love you, Nelle.”

“I love you too babe.”

Meanwhile, in Cordonia, Marquise was about to interview his mother-in-law for the position of Education Minister. When he called her on FaceTime she picked up with a smile.

“Hello, son in love. How are you?” she asked.

“I'm doing good Mom,” he replied.

“How are my grandbabies?”

“They're good. Khari is at school doing God knows what. And the boys are here but I put them down for a nap. I was hoping you had a free moment.”

“For the King? Always honey. How can I help you?” Shantel asks.

Marquise chuckled.

“I’ll get to the point. I have an opportunity for you.”

“Oh? What kind of opportunity?” she asked.

“Duke Francis has decided to retire at the end of the month. And I now have to fill his position as Education Minister. And after having interviews all week I was hoping to have you take the position.” he replied.

“You want me?! According to the law Marquise, that position is only to be filled by someone of noble status.”

“To be fair, you are married to a Prince and you were given the title of Duchess by his father, your daughter is the Queen of Cordonia, and your grandchildren are the Heirs to the throne. So I think that counts towards you having noble status.”

Shantel snorted.

“This is nepotism, son.”

“This is politics.”

“Uh-huh. Who put you up to this?” Shantel asks.

“Your daughter might have not so lightly suggested that this position is perfect for you. And when I asked your husband, he agreed,” he replies.

Shantel shook her head with a smile.

“And they know as well as I do that education has been your entire purpose in life. You love championing and advocating for students and educators. I also know that even though you retired, you never really stepped away. This is an opportunity for you to continue your amazing work while having flexibility. So what do you say, Mom?”

“What are the duties of being the Education Minister?” she asks.

“You would review, revise, and set the curriculum for the school year. You are also the one who hires, reprimands, and fires the leaders of every school board in Cordonia. In terms of Cordonia University and the smaller colleges, their curriculum is set based on the different majors, but you would still be able to see and add or change the course requirements, and you would oversee admissions as well as write the standards for that and you would oversee college staff members, and you would also be required to quarterly meetings with administrators four times a year.” he replies.

Shantel nodded.

“That's not bad. Would I have to move?” she asks.

“I knew you'd ask that. Like I told Damien no. You wouldn't have to move if you don't want to. If you choose to stay where you are I would have an office for you set up here in the Parliamentary Building but your primary office would be at the Consulate in New York.”

“You really do think of everything son.”

Marquise snickered.

“I try.”

Shantel smiled.

“Alright son-in-love you've convinced me. If you’re truly offering me the position, I will gladly accept.”

Marquise let out a sigh of relief.

“It's yours, Your Grace.”

“Thank you, honey. It's an honor.”

“The honor is mine. We’ll talk more about it after the race.”

“Sounds good. I'll see you soon, son. Give my babies a hug and kiss from me.”

“Will do, Mom.”

Just as he hung up with his mother-in-law, his wife called.

“Hey, beautiful!”

“Hey yourself handsome. How'd it go with mom?” she asked.

“We tentatively have a new Education Minister,” he replies.

“Yay! I'm so glad she agreed.”

“We’ll talk more about it after the race but for now we celebrate.”

“It'll be so good to have her at the helm.”

“Indeed. How is your trip, my love?”

“Amazing! I can't wait to show you and Khari everything.”

“How many bags are you bringing back?” he asks.

“Enough to make you thankful that I only fly private,” she replied.

“Oh for the love of God,” he said with a groan.

“Oh quit bitching! I got gifts for you, the kids, and a new Birkin for your mom.”

“What is it with you women and those overpriced handbags?” he grumbled.

“Quiet!” she snapped at him.

Marquise shook his head with a smile just as one of the twins woke up from their nap.

“Sounds like one of the littles is waking up. Be right back.”

“Okay.”

Marquise switched off his camera and then returned with one of the boys in his arms.

“My love look,” he whispered to his half-awake son, “there's your mother.”

Zyon blinked sleepily and when he looked up to see his mom he half smiled.

“Hi, Pumpkin! I miss you. I'll see you tomorrow okay?”

Zyon just laid his head on his father’s shoulder and yawned.

“Let me deal with him and I'll see you tomorrow.”

“Okay. I'll see you and them tomorrow. Love you.”

“I love you too, my love.”

The next day Shanelle was home and bearing gifts. Toys for her children, new cologne for her husband, and as promised a new Birkin bag for Margo.

“Oh, it's beautiful, Your Majesty! You shouldn't have.”

“Nonsense! You had been wishing for this bag for months. Besides, I promised your daughter and granddaughters that I'd get it for you when I was in New York.”

Margo shook her head with a smile.

“Thank you, Shanelle. Truly.”

“Don't thank me. Thank your son. It was his card I used.”

Marquise made a face.

“The only reason I won't make a fuss is because you had a good reason to use my card. Also, give me my card back! What is wrong with you?!”

Shanelle handed him his card back as he grumbled.

“Now if you two will excuse me, I've been away from my babies for far too long. I'm due for some twin snuggles.”

And off she went to be with her littlest ones. That following week they hosted many other royal allies, and then that weekend the family was getting ready for the Derby. While Khari was getting ready with her grandmothers, Shanelle was getting the twins ready.

“Okay, you two. Let's get dressed.”

Unfortunately, the boys would rather play with their pups.

“We don't want to be late boys. Your daddy will have a fit.”

She managed to get Kylo dressed but Zyon wasn't ready to go yet. Instead of getting dressed, Zyon took off down the hall in nothing but a diaper.

“Zyon, come back here!”

The giggling 10-month-old ran from his mother and almost ran past his father.

“Whoa! And where are you going my love?” he asked as he picked up his son. “Now now, we will have time to play later. But right now we have to get ready.”

Marquise returned Zyon to his mother so he could get dressed and they could get ready as well. Soon the family was off to the racetrack. When they got to the stables, their daughter was excited to see the horses.

“Come on Daddy! Let's go!” Khari said before taking off towards the horses.

“Wait for your brothers!” he replied as he pushed the stroller with the twins.

Khari stopped long enough for him to catch up.

“Sorry.”

“No worries. Besides you can't feed the horses without apples now can you?” Marquise asked.

Khari shook her head no.

“Now let's go feed the horses.”

His Majesty helped the children feed the horses although the boys didn't quite understand that the apples were for the horses, but they had fun nonetheless.

“How was it?” Shanelle asked her husband.

“They had a blast. The horses are beautiful and they were so gentle and patient.” Marquise replies.

They soon left the stables and headed to the red carpet. Their Majesties watched as Shanelle’s parents and Margo escorted their kids on the red carpet. The little ones stole the show. Many of the paparazzi clamored to get pictures of the smiling young royals.

“Look at my babies!” Shanelle whispered proudly.

Marquise shook his head with a small chuckle.

“My poor boys. They don't know what to do. It's adorable.”

“There was a time that you didn't either.”

“True I didn't. But I'm thankful that they have their sister and our parents with them.”

They watched as Khari helped her brothers walk up the red carpet steps.

“Well my Queen, it's showtime.”

“I live for this.”

“You or your ego?” he asked.

“Both,” she replies.

Marquise snickered as they walked the red carpet. The couple had the paparazzi buzzing about their outfits and especially Shanelle’s flowery headpiece.

“I will never understand why I let you talk me into letting you wear this thing.”

“Simple. You didn't say anything because you knew I'd look good in it.”

“True. It's just huge!”

“That's the point, Your Majesty.”

“You just love to be over the top.”

“Your fault.”

“Indeed it is.”

The couple walked into their new private box where their entire family was mingling about. When they got there Shanelle spotted Damien staring and smiling wistfully at a portrait of his parents. She walked over to him and laid her chin on his shoulder.

“Are you okay Daddy?” she asked.

“Yes my darling, I'm fine. I had almost forgotten about this portrait. This was commissioned after their 10th wedding anniversary. They look so young.” Damien said to her.

“It was found in the archives a few months ago, and it was faded and covered in dust. So I had it restored and had it hung here in their honor and yours.”

Damien smiles softly.

“Thank you my darling. They would've been thrilled to see it.”

“I know you miss them. Especially today. But they're here Daddy. And they're happy.”

Damien kissed the back of his daughter's hand.

“I know.”

Khari worked over to them

“Who’s that mommy?” Khari asked.

“They're my grandparents. Pop Pop’s mom and dad.” Shanelle replied.

Khari looked up at the portrait and smiled.

“Your mom is very pretty Pop Pop.”

Damien smiled.

“Thank you, sunshine. She would've loved to be here today. She and my father loved horses and horse racing.”

“Did they have horses?” Khari asked.

“Mmmhmm. Every time we had a new foal in the stables I got to name them.” Damien replies.

“Like me?” she asked.

“Just like you. You have to remember sunshine, Pop Pop is a Prince,” he replied.

“One of the best Princes ever.”

“Thank you, sweetheart. Now let's go grab a bite to eat.”

“Okay, Pop Pop! Let's go.” Khari said as she took his hand and they walked over to where the buffet was.

Shanelle stayed looking at the portrait as her mother walked up behind her.

“I thought you were gonna tell him about the portrait, Mom,” Shanelle said to her mother.

“I was but I wanted to see the look of shock and love on his face,” Shantel replies.

Shanelle smiled wistfully.

“I miss them. There are days where I wish they were here to guide me.”

“They are here, baby. They're always here.”

Shanelle smiled at her mother.

“Marquise and Daddy are always telling me that they'd be proud of me. It's just sometimes I wish I could hear them say it.”

“I know honey. And your dad and husband are right. Your grandparents would be so proud of you.”

“I know.”

“Good. Now let's go get something to nibble on.”

Shanelle followed her mother over to the buffet. After grabbing food, Shanelle joined her husband at the podium. It was time for them to give the opening remarks.

“Good afternoon to one and all. Today is a fine day for a race wouldn't you all agree? Today is the first running of the Cordonian Derby in nearly 5 years. That's a long time for a lot of us. It has been a long road to get here. After a long wait, we will all get to experience our kingdom’s oldest and most celebrated pastime. And now I believe Her Majesty has but one thing to say.”

“Let the races begin!” Shanelle announced.

Soon a flurry of bettors were seen running to place a bevy of bets. Including many in their family. Namely Logan. He. Marquise and Damien were sitting in the King’s lounge.

“$98, $99, $85,000.00!” he announced triumphantly after counting his winnings.

“Well done Logan,” Damien said to him.

“Thanks Pop.”

“That's nothing. Wait until the main race. You could win up to quadruple that.” Marquise said as he pulled out his cigar case.

“Cigars? Have I ever told you that I love coming here?” Logan asks.

Marquise snorted before passing a cigar to both Logan and his father-in-law.

“Come to Papa!”

“Thank you, son.”

“Of course. It's a special occasion so it's time for the rarities.”

“How rare?” Logan asked.

“These are El Rey De España cigars,” Marquise replies.

Logan whistled impressed as he lit his cigar.

“I can't believe you got your hands on these. They only produce 20 cases a year.”

“I know. I bought the company and the towns surrounding it in Cuba a few months after I got married. They make them for me all the time, but they only publicly produce 20 cases a year because that's all I'm willing to give up.”

That piqued Logan’s interest.

“Would it be too much?” Logan asked.

“Yeah yeah. I’ll have a couple of cases sent to you for Christmas like I do Damien,” Marquise replies.

“I knew big sis marrying you would pay off for me.”

A waiter brought a bottle of whiskey and three glasses of ice.

“For you and your guests Your Majesty.”

“Thank you, Vander. That will be all.”

The waiter bowed before leaving.

“It's like you're trying to spoil me!”

“Go to hell, Logan,” Marquise replied as he poured drinks for the three of them. “Gentlemen, salud.”

They clinked their drinks before downing them. Meanwhile, Shanelle was catching up with her girls.

“It's so beautiful here,” Bronwyn said.

“Thank you, babe. My husband put a lot of thought, time, and effort into this.”

“Forget the grounds. Can we talk about the food? These little steak crostini things are everything!” Robin piped up.

Shanelle laughed.

“I'm glad you like them, baby.”

“How are you, Nelle?” Bronwyn asks.

“I'm good love. I'm happy that today is finally here. And so far it's been an amazing success. Everything has gone off without a hitch.”

Just then an attendant walked up to the girls.

“Pardon the interruption my Queen but there's someone here to see you.”

The girls looked at each other.

“Who is it?” Shanelle asked.

That's when Khari’s Headmaster walked up.

“Good afternoon, Your Majesty! I'm Khari’s Headmaster. Lady Josselyn Gallagher.” she said to Shanelle.

“Good afternoon Headmaster Gallagher. It's good to finally meet you.” Shanelle replied.

“Indeed. I wanted to introduce myself since we haven't had the chance to meet. Khari talks about you and her father all the time.”

“I'm sure she does.”

“Well, I won't take up too much of your time. Again, I just wanted to introduce myself to you.”

“Thank you, Headmaster. We’ll talk soon.”

Lady Gallagher bowed her head before leaving. When Shanelle sat back down, the girls noticed the slight agitation on her face.

“Okay, spill,” Rob said to Shanelle.

“What?” Shanelle replies.

“Who the hell was that and why do you look like you were ready to knock her ass out?” Robin asks.

Bronwyn snickered at the look on Shanelle’s face.

“You make me sound violent, Ro.”

“You are violent!” they replied.

Shanelle sucked her teeth.

“Trollops! The both of you!”

“Answer the question, Nelle.”

“First off, I was not about to knock her ass out. Thank you very much.”

Bron and Rob looked at each other.

“And second, that is the new Headmaster of Khari’s school.”

“Okay fine, so you weren't gonna punch her lights out. That still doesn't answer Rob’s question of why do you look like that?” Bronwyn said.

“You remember me telling y'all and the girls about the new Head of State for Comery Isle. Lord Gallagher?” Shanelle asked.

“Yeah. Isn't he the one who was sitting on YOUR throne the first time y'all met?” Robin replies.

“Yup. And you girls just met his oldest sister. Oh and not only was she in class with my husband, she used to be his ex’s best friend.”

The girls looked at each other.

“Do we need to handle a problem?” Bronwyn asked.

“And you know I carry my knucks with me,” Robin added.

“And you two scallywags have the audacity to call me violent. While I appreciate the eagerness you two have to put your feet up somebody’s ass, stop it! So far she hasn't even shown an ounce of interest in anything that has to do with politics.” Shanelle replies.

“And what does that mean to the people here?” Rob asks.

“Besides nothing,” Bronwyn added.

Shanelle snorted.

“This is why I love you two. It means she has no interest in politics. At least not right now.”

“Okay. But you know that if she's ever feeling froggy.” Bronwyn warned.

Shanelle cackled.

“Girl! Bye! You live in California! You can't do anything to her.”

“Shit! The hell I can't. Don't think for one second that I won't hop on my plane to come jam my foot up somebody's ass!”

Rob and Shanelle died laughing.

“Calm down Crusher!” Rob said to her.

“Yeah. Besides, if she ever becomes a problem I always know who to call.” Shanelle said.

“As long as you know.” Bronwyn quipped.

“Chile! It's almost time for the main race so I'm gonna go get the boys. I'll be right back.”

That's when Shanelle walked from where the girls were sitting into the lounge where the guys were.

“I knew I'd find you three underneath all this cigar smoke.”

“Are you enjoying yourself?” Marquise asked.

“Indeed I am,” Shanelle replied while pouring herself a drink, “I came here to tell you three that it's almost time for the main race.”

Marquise checked his watch.

“So it is. Well, let's go.”

Logan was the first to stand up.

“More money for meeeeee!” he sang.

“You sound like a kid in a candy store,” Shanelle said to him.

“I am a kid in a candy store!” he said matter-of-factly as he walked out.

Soon everyone was seated and awaiting the main race. The winner of the race won the entire box money. With Logan winning an additional $340,000.00.

Later that night after everyone had gone to bed, the Royals enjoyed a nightcap.

“Today was a success, Your Majesty. You should be proud.” Shanelle said to her husband.

“I am. It's been a long time coming. I'm glad everyone had a good time and won a little pocket change.”

“I'm happy with all the money we raised. I remember a time when it wasn't always like that.”

“True. Did you enjoy spending time with the girls?” he asks.

“I always do. I even met someone interesting today.”

“Oh? Who?” he asked.

“Your daughter's Headmaster. She came and formally introduced herself,” she replied.

Marquise took a thoughtful sip of his drink.

“She was sitting in her brother’s box so it's only natural that she'd want to introduce herself to you since you two have never met.”

“Maybe. Or maybe her brother sent her over to size me up.”

“I don’t think so. She's not the type to dare the wrath of her King. Her brother is. He's impulsive and arrogant as hell; whereas she's more calculated and measured. Besides, I think she enjoys her job as an educator more than anything.”

“I will take your word for it. In the meantime, I have wine to finish.”

“You do that. I'm gonna go check on our children.”

“They're sleeping, babe.”

Marquise shrugged helplessly.

“Bad habit.”

Shanelle shook her head.

“This is true. Okay, go check on them.”

Shanelle watched her husband disappear down the hall before she went back to her wine.

A few days later Marquise was going over a budget proposal for the kingdom when he heard a loud commotion outside his office.

“What in the world is going on?” he thought.

That's when a guard ran into his office.

“Your Majesty! Come quick!”

“What is it?”

“It's Mrs. Geaneaux. She's fallen.”

He felt like his heart stopped.

“What?! Where is she?!” he asked.

“This way.” the guard replied before he led Marquise to where Margo had fallen. When he got to her she was just starting to regain her standing.

“Mama! Are you alright? What happened?” he asks her.

“I'm fine, my dear. I just got a little dizzy, that's all,” she replies.

“Here let me help you up.”

Marquise slowly helped her to her feet. He quickly scanned her to make sure she wasn't seriously injured.

“Are you hurt?” he asked.

“Only my pride, my love. I'm okay,” she replied.

“Let's get you to my office so you can have a place to sit down,” he said to her, “where is your cane?”

“Right here, Your Majesty.” a young guard holding her cane replied.

“Thank you,” Marquise said to the guard before turning his attention back to his mother, “can you walk? Do you need a wheelchair?”

“No no. I can walk.”

Taking his arm and walking gingerly, Margo walked with Marquise back to his office. Once inside he led her to the sofa and helped her sit down.

“Thank you, my son.”

Marquise turned to the female guard holding Margo’s cane.

“Let her son Bannon and my wife know that she's here and that she's fallen.”

“At once Your Majesty.”

The guard handed Marquise her cane before leaving.

“Mama, are you sure you’re not hurt?” he asked.

“Yes. I promise I'm fine. It was just a fall Marquise.” she replies.

“Fall my ass. You aren't even supposed to be here today. What are you doing here Mama? You should be at home resting.” Marquise fussed.

“This is my home son.”

“Mama you know what I mean! You had another round of treatments today. And when you have those treatments, you are supposed to be at home when they're done. We've been over this!” Marquise snapped at her.

Marquise shook his head sadly.

“I'm sorry. I didn't mean to yell at you. I had no right.”

Margo just smiled.

“Come here.”

“What?” he asks.

“Come. Here,” she replied.

When he sat next to her, she wrapped him in the motherly hug he knew all too well.

“My boy. My sweet beautiful boy. I'm not angry about your concern for me. And I'm sorry if my fall scared you. But assure you that I'm alright.”

Marquise took a deep breath.

“I know…I just panicked when I saw you.”

Margo smiled warmly at him.

“You never stop. You are determined to protect me.”

“You always protected me so it's the very least that I can do.”

Just then her oldest son Bannon came rushing in.

“A guard came and got me. What happened?” he asked.

“She fell,” Marquise replied.

“And he's making a big fuss of it.” Margo quipped.

“As he should! You aren't supposed to be here mother.”

“Oh for the love of God! Both of you stop it! I have the right to come and go in this palace as I please!” Margo fussed.

“And I'm starting to regret granting it to you,” Marquise muttered.

“His Majesty has a point.”

Margo gave them both a look that shut them right up.

“Much better. Now I came here because I would've been bored at home. And as much as I love that my two oldest boys want to look out for me, I am fine. Nothing is broken or bruised. Outside of my pride that is.”

The men looked at each other.

“If your Papa could never get me to change my mind, neither can the two of you.”

“How does she do that?” Bannon asked Marquise.

“I have no idea,” Marquise replies.

Marquise sighed.

“Will you let us take you to your room here?” Bannon asked.

“Yes. If it'll make you both feel better. And before either one of you says anything, I promise to rest for the remainder of the day.” Margo replied.

“Very well. Let's get you comfortable.”

After being helped up, Margo walked with her sons on either side of her to her bedroom in the palace. It was right across the hall from Khari and the twins.

“Thank you both for helping me to my room.”

“Do you need anything, Mother?” Bannon asked.

“Just some water. And maybe a turkey club.” Margo replied.

“Of course Madam,” Bannon said to her with a bow before turning to Marquise, “thank you, brother. I'm glad you were there and that she wasn't alone.”

“Of course. It's what family does.”

Bannon smiled gratefully.

“Indeed. I'll be back.”

10 minutes after Bannon left, Shanelle came in with the twins.

“A guard told me what happened. Are you okay Margo?” she asks.

“Yes, my dear. I'm fine. It was just a dizzy spell.” Margo replies.

“I'd prefer it if you didn't have any of those. Thank you.”

Margo chuckled.

“I’ll try.”

Shanelle set the boys down and they wobbled their way over to their grandmother.

“Hello, my sweet turtle doves. Have you come to check on me too?” Margo asked them.

Their only reply was to snuggle in her arms.

“Oh, you two came to give me snuggles. I will gladly accept them.” Margo said to the twins as she snuggled them close.

Marquise smiled at seeing them together. He then turned his attention to his wife.

“Can we talk?” he asked Shanelle, who simply nodded. “We’ll be right back Mama.”

“No rush. I have my turtle doves to keep me company.”

Marquise led his wife outside before letting out a breath he'd been holding in.

“Are you okay?” Shanelle asked him.

“No. I mean she looks fine but when I got to her…” Marquise replies.

“I know. But as George always said, she's a lot stronger than we give her credit for.”

“Yeah. She is. I'm still going to have Dr. Wembley look her over just to be sure that nothing is broken and that her port looks good.”

Shanelle nodded.

“I won't try to talk you out of it.”

“Thank you. I know I'm being overprotective.”

Shanelle rubbed his arms.

“I know Margo well enough to know that she appreciates it. She knows you love her. And she knows you will do any and everything in your power to keep her safe, protected, and healthy.”

Marquise leaned his head against hers.

“Thank you, my love.”

“Always. Now you stay with your mom, and I'll go get Khari from school.”

Marquise kissed her forehead softly.

“Alright. Thank you for understanding.”

Shanelle smiled at him.

After coming home from school, Khari ran straight to Margo’s room with flowers in hand. She was reading to the twins.

“Grammy! Are you okay?” Khari asked.

“Yes, my darling. I'm fine. Are those for me?” Margo replies.

“Yes. Mommy said you had a fall when she came and got me from school. So instead of something to eat, we got you flowers.”

Margo read the worry on Khari’s face.

“Here, come sit with me and your brothers.”

Khari placed the flowers on the bed and climbed in with her and the twins.

“There that's much better. Now that I have all of you with me I know I will feel much better.”

Khari smiled sadly.

“Why the long face my dear?” Margo asked.

Khari looked at her guiltily.

“I got scared that you got hurt and would go away to the happy place like Grandpa,” Khari replied.

If there was one thing Khari loved, it was her grandmother.

Margo tilted her chin up and smiled softly.

“My sweet darling. I promise you that I am not going anywhere. I know you are worried for me and I am so grateful for it and you. But I swear to you that I will be here with you, your brothers, and your cousins for as long as the Good Lord will allow me to be. Okay?”

Khari nodded.

“Yes ma'am.”

“That's my girl. Now did you have a good day at school?” Margo asked her.

“Yes, I did. We had our music theory class. We practiced one of Grandpa’s favorite songs today.” she replied.

“That's wonderful my love. Do you have homework?” Margo asked.

“Yes. And I promise I will do my homework but I wanted to see you first and bring you your flowers.” Khari replies.

“Thank you my darling. It is very sweet of you to think of me.”

Margo pulled her and her brothers close.

“I love you Grammy,” Khari said.

“And I love each of you,” Margo replied as she snuggled with the children.

Marquise watched from the doorway with a smile. When Margo looked up, she smiled at her son.

Later that night Marquise was standing out on the balcony with a drink in his hand.

“Penny for your thoughts?” Shanelle asked as she walked up.

“For you? Always,” he replied.

“Are you sure you’re okay?” she asks.

He took a sip of his drink.

“If I was, I wouldn't have this drink in my hand,” he replied.

She kissed his shoulder.

“This is why I love you. You are always protective of those you love.”

He closed his eyes and smiled softly.

“You're a good son.”

“Lord knows I try to be.”

Marquise finished his drink before he and Shanelle went to bed.

You've reached the end of Part 1.

Stay tuned for part two!

#khoicesbyk #choices #choices stories you play #pixelberry #fanfic #choices fanfiction #king marquise #king of cordonia #queen shanelle #queen of cordonia #king and queen of cordonia #forevermore #black couple #black love #black marriage #black king liam #choices fic writers creations #cfwc fics of the week #fics of the week

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a-crepusculo · 2 years

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Stunning (Ethan x MC)

Book: Open Heart Pairing: Dr. Ethan Ramsey x Dr. Marchia Bisognin (F!MC) Premise: The dazzling couple spent their night at the Opera House. Rating / Category: Mature / Semi-NSFW; Fluff Warning(s): Suggestive adult theme, strong language Word Count: 236 words Artist: @/artbyainna on Instagram

“You look stunning.”

A thrill ran up her spine. Marchia had heard him whisper those exact words a million times, yet somehow, her heart leaped into the sky—just like the first time he uttered them for her. His arms ardently came around the warmth of her waist, pining her tightly against the wall.

Precisely where he wanted her to be.

“Maybe it’s time for you to wear some glasses, sayang,” she teased, her fingers hooked on his grey tie, pulling him closer.

“Or maybe it’s time for me to rip off that dress.”

His head leaned down, pressing a hot trail of kisses up her neck, biting on her delicate skin softly. In mere seconds, he finally reached her jaws—uncontrollably consumed by the sensation of her exposed skin. Feeling utterly greedy, he turned to meet her lips, but was greeted with some resistance from her finger.

“Ah-ah-ah,” she playfully chastised. “Not so fast, Doctor Ramsey. The show’s about to start.”

He slightly lifted a brow, countering the young blonde with his own taunting smile. Dark, hooded eyes gazed right into hers, harboring a quiet yet passionate intensity. She knew exactly what he was planning—entirely too filthy to be declared to the public.

Ethan could not quite temper the grin that spread across his striking face as he murmured, “Then we’ll continue our show when we get home.”

A/N: To celebrate my birthday tomorrow, I wanted to post this early b-day gift I got from my loveliest @jerzwriter 🤍 Elsa, my sweetest friend, thank you for this wonderful gift. I literally giggled and SCREAMED when I saw the finalized piece from Ainna. Wherever you are, please know I love you and I cherish you so so much! 😭🤍

I’ll be tagging in a separate post!

#open heart #ethan ramsey #open heart choices #choices open heart #ethan jonah ramsey #dr. ethan ramsey #open heart fanfiction #oph fanfiction #open heart fanart #oph fanart #open heart fanfic #oph fanfic #Ethan x MC #Ethan Ramsey x MC #choices fic writers creations #cfwc fics of the week #fics of the week #Ethan x Marchia #playchoices

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aprilchallenge · 1 year

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Fics of the Week

Open Heart

Pairing: Ethan Ramsey x Jane Fletcher

Common Ground 🌸 @inlocusmads

Pairing: Tobias Carrick x Casey McTavish

Crash - Part 1 🌸 @jerzwriter

Pairing: Ethan Ramsey x Cassie Valentine (F!MC)

Breaking News 🌸 @liaromancewriter

Pairing: Ethan Ramsey x Meera Bose

Love Again 🌸 @headoverheelsforramsey

Pairing: Ethan Ramsey x Tatum Erikson-Ramsey

The Easter Magic 🌸 @txemrn

Pairing: Bryce Lahela x Olivia Hadley

Unspoken 🌸 @storyofmychoices

Pairing: Tobias Carrick x Casey McTavish

Learning Curve 🌸 @jerzwriter

Pairing: Tobias Carrick x Casey McTavish

A Carrick Family Easter 🌸 @jerzwriter

Pairing: Ethan Ramsey x Kaycee

Sweet Reaction: An Ethan and Kaycee Easter fic 🌸 @jerzwriter

Pairing: Ethan Ramsey x Cassie Valentine

Begin Again 🌸 @liaromancewriter

TRR

Pairing: Drake Walker x F!OC (Harper Gale)

Sleepless in New York: Chapter 9 - Edge of the Night 🌸 @karahalloway - mature

Blades of Light and Shadow

Tyril Starfury x Arwen (f!elf!MC)

Nothing is impossible with you 🌸 @missameliep

The Red Carpet Diaries

Pairing: Thomas Hunt x Alex Spencer (F!OC)

Happy Easter 🌸 @theartoflovingthomashunt

Artwork / Edits:

Open Heart

Featuring: Tobias Carrick

Happy April Fool‘s Day 🌸 @beyondsimsreality

Pairing: Ethan Ramsey x Victoria Clarke

Spring Flowers 🌸 @potionsprefect

Pairing: Soraya Auclair (F!OC) x Meilani Leahi (F!OC)

Viva Las Vegas 🌸 @peonierose

Featuring: Sadie Oakley

Sadie’s Self Care Sunday #26 🌸 @peonyblossom

Featuring: Sadie Oakley

Sadie’s Self Care Sunday #27 🌸 @peonyblossom

Featuring: Tobias Carrick, Casey McTavish and Aurora Emery

Enchanted 🌸 @jerzwriter

Pairing: Ethan Ramsey x Meera Bose

Wrong Number 🌸 @headoverheelsforramsey

Pairing: Tobias Carrick x Casey McTavish (F!MC)

Homecoming 🌸 @jerzwriter

Featuring: Olivia Hadley

Sunshine Pediatrics 🌸 @storyofmychoices

Featuring: Olivia Hadley

Barbie 🌸 @storyofmychoices

Pairing: Sienna Trinh x Max Valentine (M!OC); Cassie Valentine (F!MC); OH Gang

Wedding Traditions 🌸 @liaromancewriter

Blades of Light and Shadow

Geometric Tyril Starfury 🌸 @storyofmychoices

The Red Carpet

Featuring: The Hunt Family

Happy Easter from the Hunt Family 🌸 @theartoflovingthomashunt

Headcannons

Open Heart

Featuring: Dr. Melissa Cabrera

The Hopkins Girls 🌸 @headoverheelsforramsey

Nightbound

Featuring: Alex Fontaine x Nik Ryder

Beautiful Dress 🌸 @ladylamrian

#choices april challenge #fics of the week #Open Heart #Red Carpet #The Royal Romance

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assorted-fics · 5 months

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Fics of the Month

Marvel

Infinite Coffee and Protection Detail by MusingsOnBuckyBarnes & Owlet First Fic: The mission resets abruptly, from objective: kill to objective: protect

Average Avengers Local Chapter 7 of New York City by hetrez

Steve and Tony accidentally start a national do-gooders association and fall in love.

Changing Fate by melWinter

Loki was supposed to go back to Asgard to assume control of the throne after saving Thor on Svartalfheim. He was supposed to be the portent for Ragnarok...too bad fate didn't ask for his opinion. After all, fate didn't plan for Loki to find an abandoned baby elf. Nor did Loki plan to discover how intriguing Jane Foster can be. And what the heck do the Avengers and his trickster of a daughter have to do with any of this? Loki makes a different choice. But can Loki truly escape the fate that has been his since the beginning? Can the trickster learn to love? With Thanos rising and the infinity war looming, the universe may come to an end if the nine realms can't reconcile with the prince it once rejected. Eventual Jane/Loki. Warning: Loki and Hela snarkiness, Tony cockiness, Thor cluelessness, and random cuteness of Loki dealing with being a dad.

secret keeper by jilliancares

Ellie stares at the new arrival, gaping. All the evidence points to one obvious answer, but this guy looks nothing like the Spider-Man Ellie recognizes — mostly because he isn’t wearing the suit. “Crappy day to get kidnapped, amirite?” he says, crouching next to Ellie and deftly untying her restraints. “Looks like these guys were amateurs, though. They didn’t even lock the windows.” In which Ellie accidentally becomes the one person who knows Spider-Man's identity. She doesn't tell her dad.

Harry Potter

Of a Linear Circle (series) by flamethrower

First Fic: In September of 1971, Severus Snape finds a forgotten portrait of the Slytherin family in a dark corner of the Slytherin Common Room. At the time, he has no idea that talking portrait will affect the rest of his life.

When It Returns by academicdisaster

‘You’re late, layabout,’ Malfoy drawled, pushing the whiskey over to him. ‘I’ll have you know that I am very busy maintaining a whole house and garden by myself now.’ ‘Oooh, the dead husband card. Before any alcohol. Is that a record?’ Harry's husband is dead, and Malfoy is the only one who gets it. Or, the one where they drink at a straight man pub, renovate a house, and learn how to find joy again.

Percy Weasley and the Prefect Job That Isn’t A Vanity Role by adiduck (book_people) and joisbishmyoga

In Which Prefects Have Very Specific Training And Delineated Duties, Namely Handling Exactly One (1) Dormful Of Kids -OR- Percy Is Dorm Mom To Five Boys And No One Else -OR- In Which McGonagall Pictured Prefect Oliver Wood For Two Minutes, Turned Green, And Gave Percy The Badge Despite The Sheer Number Of Responsibilities He Already Had, And It Did Not End In Disaster The Notes For A Fic That Will Not Be Written No, Really, It Won't, Please Don't Ask A Place on Earth by louisfake "Right," Draco said, rolling his eyes. "I'm supposed to believe that the Gryffindor war hero caught the former Death Eater singing Muggle pop like a lunatic in his dormitory and didn't immediately share the news with his pack of admirers?" Harry couldn't help it, he snorted a little. "As if they would ever believe me, Draco." Draco drew himself up, ready to launch into some other tirade, so Harry held up a hand; "What would I even say? I saw Draco Malfoy being joyful and free. How is that a joke?"

Merlin

Next to You (It’s the Rule) by LunaMyLove

Arthur and Merlin have a special relationship. They always have, even when they were prince and servant. While many question it when first noticing, eventually it becomes an understanding in Camelot—and even among some other countries—that where there is Arthur, there is Merlin. And, where there is Merlin, there is Arthur. Or Arthur and Merlin's relationship as witnessed and explained by others. Also, or Five times someone realizes that Merlin is the Queen, one time Merlin realizes it himself, and one time he owns it.

The Hunt for Red Emrys by Darkbluedark

King Arthur sets out to keep his promise to the spirit of the Druid boy by repealing his father's ban on magic. Unfortunately, this is easier said than done, for reasons including but not limited to the following: (1) He can't change the law until he understands magic better, but no sorcerer is willing to explain magic to him until he changes the law; (2) The sorcerers all have some strange obsession with Merlin, which is awakening all sorts of feelings in Arthur that he really doesn't fancy examining too closely; (3) He is starting to feel like the butt of some Druid-population-wide inside joke involving the mysterious phenomenon called Emrys; and (4) Oh yeah, Morgana is still trying to kill him. Thus he embarks on a journey of discovery, diplomacy, accountability, and self-improvement, and maybe even falls in love along the way.

Open Eyes by N16

After Merlin experiences abuse at the hands of a visiting lord, Arthur decides his manservant needs to learn how to defend himself. But Merlin is unimpressed with Arthur's solution, and Arthur is forced to confront some unpleasant truths about what happens right under his nose. How can he protect a kingdom when he can't even protect those inside his castle? One-shot.

Descendants

till death do us part by RottenKidNextDoor (Portal of Words)

"the first time jay killed carlos, they were sitting in the foyer of hell hall and carlos was worried about the blood on the floor." or jay and carlos have an agreement to kill each other to exploit the magic barrier's healing ability when things go too far. killing for mercy isn't as easy as it sounds.

death came to visit me so sweetly by tobiko

Do you know what it feels like to die? The Isle kids do. It's not something that they like to talk about.

#fics of the week #fanfiction rec list #Ao3 #marvel #marvel fic recs #merlin #merlin fic recs #harry potter #Harry Potter fic recs #harry potter fanfiction #descendants #descendants fic recs #fics of the month

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mortemersgf · 2 years

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treacherous hearts

summary: rivals to lovers excerpts featuring oliver cochrane, estela montoya, tyril starfury, and mona. from this prompt list.

warnings: vague description of gunshot wound, bleeding, talk of death. rating; pg13.

a/n: i wrote this several months ago and just never got around to posting it for some reason but better late than never right ??? hsdhdhdjs T-T

OLIVER COCHRANE

You’ve done it this time.

Not only did your plan to rescue Edward from Admiral Cochrane’s clutches fail, but you’ve now put the whole crew at risk as Samuel saunters to their side, reporting the whereabouts of Charlie and the others to the navy men. Unfathomable fury burns within you, and you want nothing more than to sink a sword into his chest. Such a simple wish is hindered by the metal chains clamped around your wrists and the gun pointed to your temple.

Admiral Cochrane, as arrogant as ever, makes his way from behind the wall of soldiers to face you. He is followed by Oliver, who carries a heavy gaze in his eyes.

You turn away, not wanting to let him see you like this: chained up and at his father’s mercy, defenseless and one bullet away from death.

A foolish part of you hopes there is conflict brewing in his heart, that the one afternoon you shared in Tiburon was the start of something meaningful, but when you tentatively lift your head to look at him, you feel a stinging chill run down your spine. You can’t read him. At all. You don’t know what he’s thinking when he looks at you like that, like you’re some stranger, like this is the end.

The admiral is talking, no doubt blustering and boasting, but you hear no words. You can’t hear anything over Ginny’s loud sobs and Jonas’ booming voice barking for soldiers to release her. You think this is truly it, but then Admiral Cochrane hands Oliver a rifle and moves aside. Oliver takes his father’s place before you, and trains the firearm at your forehead.

That is truly it: Oliver being the person who kills you.

Are his hands shaking or is that an illusion caused by the tears in your eyes? Nonetheless, you level his steady gaze with a defiant one. You tilt your chin, as if challenging him. If he is going to end everything, you want him to memorize this look.

You blink and there is chaos around you. There’s a ringing in your ears and the smell of gunpowder in the air. Oliver faces away from you, rifle pointed at his father who has blood bubbling from his lips. The admiral is desperately clutching his chest, but it’s to no avail with how quickly the splotch of blood spreads across his body.

At once, Oliver drops the firearm and rushes to your side just as Charlie descends upon the navy ship with a throng of men.

“Oh my God, Oliver! Why would you—what—why?” You’re unable to put together a coherent sentence with the sudden rush of adrenaline tackling your senses, but Oliver understands. As he undoes your restraints, he looks at you with nothing but certainty in his eyes, and you understand.

No matter what, he chooses you. Always.

prompt: the leader of your enemy's crew is threatening to kill you, and your enemy is faced with a decision — it's either you or their crew. you think you're toast, but instead, without hesitation, your enemy stabs/shoots their leader. it will always be you.

ESTELA MONTOYA

There isn’t a sliver of space in Estela’s heart for anything else other than avenging her mother.

That’s what she has always believed in until she met you. Charming and caring, you look out for her when nobody else does. It was irritating in the beginning. You hardly know anything about her, yet you blindly extend your hand at every chance you get, offering help and comfort without the expectation of anything in return.

You’re so sincere, so good. Too good for her, Estela thinks. Without meaning to, she carves out a space within her heart just for you, and God, is that annoying.

Why would you do such a thing? Why would you show her kindness? Why would you make her feel like this?

Sharing a bed with you has only worsened everything. Estela can’t sleep, not when you’re an arm’s length away, not when she can smell the scent of your shampoo as you shift and turn in bed. Estela can’t stop the drumming in her heart. She can’t stop the incessant thoughts flooding her mind, thoughts of holding you close and carding her fingers through your hair. How stupid is that? She can’t do anything but instruct you to stay on your side of the mattress, lie on her side, face away from you, and will herself to sleep.

“Good night, Estela,” you whisper.

Estela’s eyes snap open, and she contemplates saying something back, but in less than a minute, she hears your breathing grow deep and even. Even so, she mumbles a ‘good night’ and shuts her eyes, letting sleep take her.

When she begins to stir in the morning, she burrows her head into the pillow, finding it difficult to toss aside the covers and climb out of bed. Estela is usually up and throwing on her clothes within minutes of waking, but today, she finds herself curling into the sheets. Her nose tickles, and she cracks open an eye.

Your face is tucked under her chin, not even minding that Estela’s hair is splayed out over the pillows and brushing up against your cheek. Estela has one arm curled protectively around you, and you have an arm slung over her waist. You’re still sleeping, slightly snoring from exhaustion, but Estela is awake. Wide awake, and unable to move. Unwilling to move. You startle Estela when you move in your sleep, pressing your face into her neck with a soft groan.

Along with her heartbeat, she feels your breaths against her throat, gentle and unabating. You’re alive and safe for now. On this mystery of an island, sticking to Estela’s side, such a thing may not be guaranteed in the future.

Would it be okay for her to have this? To have you?

As stealthy as she can be, Estela detangles from your hold and slips out of the hotel room. The moment she found herself feeling some semblance of love for you, she received her answer.

It would not be okay for her to have this, to have you.

prompt: sharing a bed with your enemy, and being told ''stay on your side or i'll set this whole bed on fire'' only to wake up the next day with your enemy's arms wrapped around you.

TYRIL STARFURY

You’d be lying if you say you aren’t jealous of Tyril’s prominent position in Undermount and natural talent when it comes to magic and politics. He is at the forefront of the elven city, a feat that is exceptionally impressive at his young age.

You would give anything to be as gifted as he is, but you would give much more to keep that thought to yourself. Coming from a house with little influence, you don’t have much, and your dignity is one of the few things you want to keep.

You and Tyril circle one another like predator stalking prey, footsteps light and alert. The training grounds have emptied out, save for the two of you. You’re unsure who moves first, but the next time you blink, you’re trading blows, the sharp sound of steel against steel resonating in the air. Tyril is stronger than you are, but you’re more agile, dodging and returning his attacks with relative ease.

Your luck runs short when twenty minutes have passed and you’re still going back and forth. Tyril has picked up on your fighting patterns, and soon enough, he backs you into a corner, forcing you to go on the defensive.

Every time you train—whether it’s with fists, bows, or longswords—he bests you, rendering you unable to move, lying on the ground as you ache from overexerting your muscles. Just thinking about his retreating form as he leaves you alone to catch your breath makes your face hot with frustration.

Without meaning to, your magic flares up and imbues your next strike, sending Tyril stumbling several steps back. You falter when you see the split second look of surprise on his face. Still reeling from what you’ve done, Tyril catches you off guard easily.

One second you’re standing and about to apologize. The next, you’re lying on your back, hands pinned to the ground, barely a breath away from Tyril, whose body weight is heavy atop yours.

Anything you plan to say dies on your tongue right then and there as you realize how close he is. Tyril looks like a stranger. Growing up together, you should be familiar with his looks, but you’re not. You don’t notice the faint freckles and tiny scars scattered across his face until today, and you wish it could’ve stayed that way, because they make him endearing, and you hate to think of Tyril Starfury as someone endearing.

“You’re angry,” Tyril notes. Dark chunks of hair swipe against your face, and you turn away, hating the fact that he is right.

Your cheeks begin to grow warm again, but you’re unsure if it’s from his words or your close proximity to him. “You’re heavy. Get off of me.”

Tyril does get off of you. You two sit side by side afterwards, and in the newfound silence, he asks, “Why won’t you look at me?”

“What is there to look at?” you return, trying and failing to mask the bitter tone in your voice. “You have all of Undermount’s attention already.”

“It seems I never have yours.”

You resist the urge to snap at him. Does he believe the world revolves around him?

“You never look at me,” he continues, “no matter what I do.”

You look at him. “What does that matter?” It’s true you seldom look at him, but that’s because you see your shortcomings in him. He has what you don’t. The less time you spend looking at him, the more time you have to devote yourself to mastering magic and elven politics.

You can’t make sense of the expression on Tyril’s face, and you don’t try to. Was he expecting something from you? He looks as though he’s been delivered crushing news, unable to say anything in response.

Mirroring what you do best, Tyril looks away.

prompt: fighting with your enemy, only to end up on the ground, with their body pressing into yours, your hands pinned to the ground.

MONA

Fuck, that hurts. That’s the first thing you think of as the second bullet pierces your body. The second thing you think of is how lame you look in front of Mona. You just got shot, not once but twice in front of her. If you make it out alive, she’ll hold this incident over your head for who knows how long. Though, you may be spared from that fate with how quickly you’re bleeding out.

Where the hell did the bullets hit anyway? Donning an all black attire robs your ability to determine where all the blood is seeping out from, but judging by the way the right side of your body stings… you can deduce it’s somewhere on that side. Shit. You don’t feel it as you drop to the ground. I should probably put pressure on the wounds, you think. You can’t move. Your body isn’t listening, regardless of how much you want it to.

Then, a familiar bronze jacket is shoved into your side. Mona hunches over you, applying pressure to your wounds dutifully.

“Ow, Mona, easy on all the jabbing!” you hiss. “Oh, God. That hurts like a bitch.”

“Shut up and save your energy. The ambulance is coming.”

“Ugh, forget it,” you mutter, pushing at her shoulder weakly, “just go. The police will get here before the rig. You have to go.”

“You just got shot twice,” she reminds you. “I’m not going anywhere.”

“I kinda deserved it.”

“Yeah, you kind of did,” Mona replies dryly.

“Ouch. Now that hurts.”

“You think this is funny?” Mona lifts her head and you see, for the first time, that her eyes are filled with rage and fear. She’s no longer bantering. She’s genuinely angry.

“Look,” you reason, “I’m probably not gonna make it out of this. Just go already, okay? I won’t hold it against you, just—”

A cough wracks your body, and you actually feel blood spurting out of you, wetting your clothes and dying Mona’s hands red. At this point, you’re unsure if she’s even listening. Mona keeps pressing her jacket into your wounds, though it doesn’t do much. She realizes that, and the haunted look on her face breaks your heart.

“I love you.”

Plain and simple. Mona said it.

Yeah, you and Mona have your moments, but coming from rival crews, love is the last thing you expect Mona to feel for you. You’ve brushed shoulders on the same jobs countless times, but more often than not, the two of you wind up laughing it out at a diner, so maybe love was inevitable. But in this cruel life you were forced into, where every man is for themself, perhaps this is inevitable as well.

This, meaning watching your own blood soak your clothes, the concrete, and the girl who just spat out the three words she has been terrified to say.

“I won’t ever forgive you if you die right now,” Mona says, “I’ll kill you myself if you do. You hear me? I can't lose you. Keep your eyes open.” Her voice is trembling, her usual bravado gone from seeing you like this: bloodstained and unmoving, minutes from passing out from blood loss.

God, you want to vomit. Not because of what Mona just said, but because you feel so dizzy, so tired. You put on a smile for her anyway, saying, “I can’t take you out on a date if we… if we both end up behind bars. Wait for me, okay? Soon as I get out, I’ll find you.”

“I’ve been to prison before, and it doesn’t scare me.”

Now, you’re the one to grow disgruntled, snapping, “But it scares me. If you end up behind bars because of me, I’d be so… mad, so I mean it. Go.”

“You think I’ll be able to live with myself if I just up and bolt right now?” Mona snaps. “Leave you here to die?”

“Mona, please… please go.” You know you won’t win this one, but you need to try. You need to… stay awake. You need to tell her you feel the same. She needs to know. You’ll tell her when you catch your breath. You breathe in and out slowly, but you find that taking in air gets more difficult with every passing second.

Mona is speaking to you. Her lips are moving and you feel wetness on your cheeks, but you’re certain you’re not crying, so it must mean she is. Yet, you can’t see it.

You can’t see much of anything at all.

prompt: you've just been shot, you're bleeding out, and your enemy is freaking the fuck out, dropping the ''i love you, i can't lose you'' card, begging you not to close your eyes.

tags: @choicesficwriterscreations

#choices #playchoices #distant shores #endless summer #blades of light and shadow #oliver cochrane #estela montoya #tyril starfury #choices mona #choices stories you play #choices fic writers creations #fics of the week #pixelberry #choices fanfic

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