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tessa-liam · 8 months

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Smoke and Mirrors

9-Hidden in Plain Sight

Book: The Royal Romance Finale, AU

Series Premise: Hidden in the shadows, poised to challenge the status quo are enemies of the state. The loyalties and honesty of family and friends will be tested. ‘Keep your friends close, your enemies closer’.

Smoke and Mirrors Masterlist

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

2nd Pairings: Leo Rys x Amalas, Drake Walker x F!OC Delaney Leigh, Olivia Nevrakis x M!OC Alex Cossoy

*Most characters belong to Pixelberry.

*Not Beta’d, please excuse all errors

Rating: M🔞*Series Warnings: NSFW material, sexual innuendo, adult language/swearing/drinking/gun violence. Not recommended for anyone under 18 years of age.

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

Words: 2394

Chapter Summary: It’s the evening of the Celebration Ball and the big reveal of the Royal twins. Lena is interrogated by Interpol. Liam and Leo discuss a potential threat to the kingdom.

Smoke and Mirrors

9- Hidden in Plain Sight

Music Inspiration: Sway, Michael Buble; Claire De Lune, London Symphony Orchestra; Late Night Talking, Harry Styles

A/N2: My submission for @choicesseptemberchallenge2023, @midnightmelodiz , Day 6 – Dreams, Day dream, “I’m in love with you?”

A/N1: My submission for @choicesflashfics @jerzwriter Week #49, Prompt 1- “You take my breath away every time I see you.”

The King’s chamber was illuminated only by the soft light of the full moon where the King and Queen lay together. Riley was fast asleep, her head resting on Liam’s chest, her very pregnant belly snuggled safely against his side. Liam looked over at his sleeping wife, his heart swelling with love for her and their sons. In three short weeks, his family will grow to five; that time coming very quickly now.

Cordonian Royal Palace

He lay awake; sleep eluding him again for another night. Mentally organizing his schedule for the upcoming month, his thoughts eventually returned to that conversation with Drake that they had on the beach the day before. His confession...

‘Watching you with Brooks, all these years... I want that too.’

‘Pretending to be happy is pretty damn exhausting.’

Sighing, Liam was pleasantly surprised when he heard a soft voice.

No one else would have caught it, but Liam did. He ‘read between the lines’ of what Drake had said, like he was remembering a bad dream. Did Drake just admit that he still had feelings for his wife? Were those feelings that he had years ago still present and relevant to him?

“How long have you been awake?” Riley whispered.

He kissed her forehead and placed his hand on her baby bump. Stroking her belly, he could feel the soft kicks under his palm.

“Not long, love” he murmerred.

“What are you thinking about?” Liam hesitated before answering.

Riley turning her head to look up at him, “you think too much sometimes.”

“A conversation that I had. I am not quite sure if it was real or if it was a daydream.” Liam kept his answer opaque on purpose, not wanting to divulge too much detail to her.

Liam chuckled, “Are you complaining?”

“Never,” she replied, yawning. “I love you,” she added sleepily.

His body relaxed, as he closed his eyes, “I love you more.” he murmured, tightening his arm around her protectively.

Cordonian Palace Ballroom

The Ballroom was filled with guests awaiting the King’s announcement scheduled for later in the evening.

Royalty from neighboring kingdoms, nobility, politicians, and ambassadors from allied countries came from long and short distances to partake in the black-tie festivities. Music filled the air as waitstaff circulated amongst the crowd with glasses of wine and flutes of champagne.

“I’m glad you decided to attend this event with me,” Olivia said smiling at Alex.

“I must be honest with you, Livvie. I usually attend these functions as the enforcer. I am not used to wearing a ‘monkey suit’,” Alex smirked. He seemed to be comfortable among all the guests, nonetheless.

Olivia grinned back at her partner, but her smile quickly faded when she spotted Amalas and Leo huddled together on the other side of the dance floor. They appeared to be deep in conversation and were not paying any attention to their surroundings.

Alex noticed Olivia’s expression change. “Everything okay?” he asked with concern. She nodded, trying to force the smile back onto her lips.

“I thought that Leo was coming on his own tonight.”

“Liv, that doesn’t mean that he can't talk to anyone once he gets here,” Alex rebutted. Olivia sighed loudly and continued to watch the couple from afar.

A waiter approached, carrying a tray of hors d’oeuvres. Alex accepted a small sampling as Olivia continued to study the couple without saying another word. Alex shook his head; he knew what was bothering her. He also wished, he was mistaken.

As the orchestra began to play the first few notes of the Cordonian national anthem, the press began to gather around the dais waiting for the King to enter the ballroom.

The King’s guard fell into strategic positions when the herald announced the arrival of the Royal family.

Liam strode up to the lectern that was atop the dais wearing his full military regalia. Riley, walking with Eleanor, joined him and stood next to his side. Regina and Leo stood close by next to the dais.

The crowd hushed in anticipation. Clearing his throat once before speaking, Liam began, “Good evening, everyone,” he proclaimed.

“It is my pleasure and honor to welcome you all here tonight. I know many have been waiting patiently for the queen and I to make an official announcement concerning our ‘additions’ to the Royal family.” Liam turned to wink at Riley.

The ballroom attendees erupted in whoops and cheers.

Liam acknowledged his delighted guests with a broad smile and waited a few minutes for the accolades to subside. Continuing with, “thank you, thank you!”

“Ladies and gentlemen, I am delighted to have my princess here to help me....” Liam turned and beamed, chuckling as Ellie clapped her hands with a peal of laughter as her uncle Leo scooped her up and joined his brother.

“Well, Ellie, what do you think?” Leo asked, smirking at Liam.

“Daddy, look.” Ellie exclaimed and pointed to a bevy of blue balloons filled with helium that were being released behind the crowd overtop the dance floor.

“Everyone, our twin boys, our princes, are expected to arrive at the end of this month.” Liam lifted Riley’s hand tenderly to kiss.

Riley joined Liam as he took her hands and led her to stand beside him at the lectern.

Thrilled at the excitement, Liam continued once the audience returned their attention back to him.

Liam waited for the crowd to settle down after the announcement.

The applause was deafening as everyone celebrated.

After posing for pictures by the press, Liam led Riley to the dance floor as the orchestra began to play the beginning notes of ‘Clair de Lune’. As they danced, it felt like time stood still; as guests formed a circle around them, Liam kissed Riley’s hand and placed it atop his chest over his heart as they swayed together in time to the music.

“It must have something to do with the love of my life in my arms,” Liam simpered.

“How is it, that.... Liam,” as she smoothed down his lapels, “you take my breath away every time I see you.”

“Always the charmer, Your Majesty." Riley whispered, kissing his lips sweetly.

***

Drake held Delaney close to his chest as they watched the King and Queen move together in the center of the dance floor.

“They look so perfect together,” Delaney sighed. Her voice was laced with envy.

“Don’t worry, you’ll find someone special someday.” Drake answered sarcastically.

Delaney laughed. “That’s so easy for you to say.” Slapping his arm.

Drake grinned, “you'are damn straight, Leigh. When I first met you, I had no idea what my future would hold. You showed me things that I had only dreamed of having with someone. … and I have treasured every minute of your love.”

Growling, he leaned over and kissed her fiercely on the lips. Just as Riley and Liam walked past them. Delaney noticed the look on Drake’s face when he locked eyes with Riley. It gave her an uneasy feeling. He seemed to be lost in thought.

Smiling playfully at him, Delaney asked in jest, “I’m in love with you too?"

She frowned. “Something wrong?”

His eyes shifted away from Riley, and he shook his head.

“No, nothing at all.”

But he didn’t fool her. Delaney, now was positive that her concerns were justified, stepped back.

“Good evening, you two.” Riley beamed as she turned towards Delaney and Drake.

“You two are getting married! Congratulations...I am so happy for you both.” Riley put her arm around her shoulder for a side hug.

“Thank you so much,” Delaney replied, hugging Riley in return.

“Yes, congratulations you two,” Liam reached over to kiss Delaney’s cheek.

“I am impressed, Walker.” Riley snickered as she hugged her friend.

“Wow, settling down and saying goodbye to the bachelor life.” Liam smirked, shaking Drake's hand.

“Who would have thought,” Riley chuckled.

“Yeah, yeah, Brooks, get your shots in now.” Drake responded, not making eye contact.

Interrogation Room A, Interpol Headquarters, Lyon, France

Lena sat back on her chair with her hands folded in her lap. She was flanked by two men in dark suits. One of the men was a middle-aged man with salt and pepper hair. His name was detective Lefebvre, and he had been assigned by Inspector Ryerson to investigate her case. The other man was the head of Psychiatrics and was assigned to conduct an evaluation of her psychological state by King Liam Rys of Cordonia.

Across the table, sat Lena’s legal defense attorney, assigned to represent her by the Royal estate of Vallenheim.

Detective Lefebvre cleared his throat.

“Miss Runarsdottir, I understand you are familiar with the Cordonian Royal family?”

Lena nodded. “Yes, I have met King Constantine Rys, my father. My stepmother, Queen Sigrid, raised me when my mother Eleanor Rys was murdered. I know of but never met my brother Liam or my stepbrother Leo.”

“And what do you know about them?” he asked.

Lena’s mouth went dry. She felt like she was trapped in a nightmare.

“I don’t have any other information about them,” she lied.

“Do you mean to tell me that you knew nothing about your brothers even though you were caught outside the buildings they were in this past summer?”

Lena stared at him unflinching.

“How did you know where to go?” he asked again.

“I’m sorry, I can't help you.”

Lefebvre slammed his fist against the table, making Lena jump in surprise.

“Don't play with me. You’re either lying or delusional.”

Lena bit her lip. She sat stoically and kept her emotions hidden.

“I am not playing around. I have no information.”

Feeling frustrated, Detective Lefebvre changed his strategy.

“Miss Runarsdottir, who is Bastien Lykel?

“Who?”

“Bastien Lykel,” he repeated.

Lena’s face paled. “I don’t know anyone named Bastien.”

“Are you sure?” he pressed.

“We have CCTV evidence of your conversation with him in the holding cells at the Cordonian Palace.”

“I-I-” she stammered.

“You were seen talking to him at least three times before you escaped those holding cells in Cordonia. Is that correct?”

Again, Lena sat in silence.

“Choose wisely, Miss Runarsdottir, and answer my questions. What is the nature of your relationship with Bastien Lykel?”

Lena’s breathing quickened and her hands began to shake. If she told the truth, she was dead.

“Let the records show that Miss Runarsdottir is not cooperative.”

Cordonian Ballroom

Leo was speaking to Rashad at the bar when Liam approached after having a debate with an American ambassador.

“Hey Li, I see you survived your conversation with Smithfield.” Leo smirked as Liam ordered a scotch and shot it back quickly.

“Barkeep, another round for my brother and I’ll take the same.”

“Why, thank you Leo.” Liam clapped his back.

“Where is your beautiful Queen?”

“Riley is upstairs with Ellie. Being so close to her due date, she needs to be off her feet to rest from tonight’s festivities. She is exhausted.”

Leo nodded. “Totally understandable, but Li, why are you still down here?”

“Because I need to talk with you and apologize about the other day.” Liam responded.

“No apologies needed. I was being an asshole and you called me out.” Leo grinned.

“Well, I overreacted. You pressed a nerve when you mentioned father.”

Leo smirked, “good, because I agree with you and I believe you are ‘right on the money’.

Liam chuckled, shaking his head.

“Again, that’s what makes you the better King,” Leo winked

“I do have information for you." Leo continued. "Amalas gave me an update on Interpol’s case on Lena and Bastien.”

‘Liam winces slightly at the mention of Lena, but he does not interrupt.’

“Lena is being uncooperative when questioned by the detectives. Nice touch, by the way, for assigning a psychiatrist to oversee her testimony.”

“Well, it’s the least I could do knowing what father did to her, and her future.”

“’Amalas has uncovered a few suspicious ‘coincidences’, but nothing damning enough’ to help shed light as to what her motives are.”

“So far, the information that he divulged on the estate of Vallenheim has been verified as true. It was uncovered that he has affiliations with members of the Vallenheim royal guard.”

“Has there been any progress on Bastien’s involvement?” Liam inquired.

“Director Ryerson has scheduled an official update for Monday morning with me. Apparently, Interpol has uncovered a black ledger. It was 'hidden in plain sight'."

“Care to join me, Leo?”

Leo responded, “I will be here.”

📌 @ao719 @txemrn @queenmiarys @sfb123 @twinkleallnight @alj4890 @differenttyphoonwerewolf @harleybeaumont @busywoman @karahalloway @kingliam2019 @imjusthereforliam @lovingchoices14 @kyra75 @tinkie1973 @emkay512 @malblk21 @kristinamae093 @jared2612 @irisk12 @thesvnsins @walkerdrakewalker 📌

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marzylics · 2 months

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Please send me asks I need ideas

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apollos-forgotten-flower-bf · 5 months

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this isn't important but i am having ghostsoap and valgrace brainrot simultaneously and the ships are just so angsty i am in constant emotional pain. Every third fanart/fic i find about them is angst and it's HEARTBREAKING

But the fluff for both is so damn cute so i can't really complain

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txemrn · 1 year

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Déjà Vu

Chapter 2

New? Check out the first chapter HERE! (Go ahead; you're not late. Sure, we can wait.)

Series Summary: After an unforgettable night with a stranger, Princess Eleanor finds herself caught in a secret love triangle between a noble and a commoner.

Chapter Summary: Drake attends dinner at the palace, and even though some things will never change, he discovers quickly everyone has moved on without him.

Pairing(s): Liam x Riley; Bertrand x Savannah; Maxwell x m!OC; Olivia x Amalas

Word Count: ~4885

Warning: 🔞 Mature Audiences Only 🔞 language (like, a lot); references to infidelity, pregnancy; teasing/bullying

A/N: Welcome to my Crack Fic! If you are new, hi! Thank you for joining us! This story takes place approximately 2 decades after TRR/TRH. I have made some canonical changes (they will be mentioned). Characters and some plots belong to our friends at Pixelberry! This was not Beta'd; please excuse my errors.

~🖤~

Drake

The gentle purr of the engine beneath my grip of the steering wheel shoots pleasurable waves of pure octane ecstasy. My nerves ignite with palpable electricity, coursing through my every cell. The cream leather interior is like butter against my skin, and the scent of luxury leaves me completely intoxicated.

Lucky little shit.

I still can't believe my nephew–my fucking nephew–owns this beauty. How many twenty-four-year-olds own an Aston Martin Vantage convertible? I wish I could give him more shit about it, coming from such privilege as being the oldest son of a duke, but Bartie has more than earned it.

He may not have exactly been planned, but he was the answer, and essentially the savior, of Ramsford. Back when I lived in this God-forsaken country, some twenty-odd years ago, Ramsford was in financial ruin. My brother-in-law, Bertrand, Bartie's father, scraped, scrapped and pinched every monetary morsel to keep them afloat for years.

Then along came Bartie: finished the top of his class at some preppy private institute at Stormholt with a degree in finance, and in just three fucking years of working with his dad… well, that little shit has an Aston.

I'm actually very proud of him. Surely he knows that. We weren't much for talking over the years, but I'd send cards telling him I loved him, and I'd ask about him during video calls with my sister.

Judging that I am sitting in his custom-painted cherry-red luxury car right now? Yeah, Bartie knows I care the world about him. The fact that he's going to allow me to drive it? Fuck, I don't think I even trust myself, especially on these European roadways. Sure, I learned how to drive in Cordonia, but that was over two decades ago. And it wasn't a stickshift.

Can't be that hard, right?

I study the mechanism of the gear shift, comparing it to a quick Google search on my phone as I wait for my nephew to return to the car with a necktie–my suggestion. Afterall, we're heading to dinner with the royal family… A.K.A. my childhood best friend, his daughter. And his wife.

The love of my life.

Eh, don't feel sorry for me. I'm over it. Seriously. And besides, technically, Liam had first dibs on her; but then again, he had first dibs on several other women at the exact same time, social season and all for his highness, the fucking crown prince of Cordonia. Whoop-de-do.

He's the one that asked me to look after his hot American suitor during his own personal season of The Bachelor. Are you really surprised I fell for the chick? The guy was never around. And Riley and me? She... she was fun, smart. She was fucking hilarious, gave those noble bitches a real run for their money. And yet, she was still kind and caring. She was easy to talk to; I found myself opening up to her in ways that… well, no one else could.

Riley Brooks. I guess you could say she's the reason I never settled down with anyone. No one–and I mean no one–ever measured up.

Oh well. That was a long time ago. And she made her decision. Him. And even though he was like the brother I never had, I… I couldn't. I just couldn't sit back and watch them play house and build a life together. Well, for Liam, it was real.

I had fallen for her. But so had Liam. I knew that if I stayed–if I had stayed, the secret of Riley and me wouldn't end. Shit, if it didn’t end after they said, "I do," when would it?

Time heals all wounds, right?

Bartie opens the door, and slides into the passenger seat with two neckties in hand, both black as he holds them up to his crisp white oxford. "What do you think?"

"Think about what? The Father, Son, and Holy Ghost? You look like a fucking mormon," I jest as I point to the one with a subtle matte paisley design. "Why are you fussing about this anyway?"

"Just cause," he passively offers as he stares in the visor mirror, knotting his tie. "I'm speaking with King Liam privately after dinner, and… well, I just want to look alright."

Sensing his raw nerves, I pause for a moment, watching him fidget anxiously with the garment. Jesus, when did my baby nephew become a fucking man? I smile, placing my calloused fingers on his shoulder. "You do, kid." I fasten my seat belt as I turn my attention to the dash. "So, how do I put this thing into drive?"

------

It’s surreal walking into the palace after so many years away. White marble floors. Crimson curtains with gold accents. Childhood memories flood my mind of our sword battles on the grand staircase, pretending to be blood-thirsty pirates. Or when we would gallop through the secret labyrinth of corridors deep within the estate, charging on our make-believe stallions like mighty Spanish conquistadors.

We would always sneak to the kitchen between meals to taste the desserts being made for dinner–unless Ms. Marta was working. That fucking old hag. Most of my ass whoopings were from her tattling on us.

Liam was a fucking weirdo on our kitchen raids. We would slip through the window of the bakehouse, and when we would confirm that the coast was clear, he would always head straight for the pantry to a bag of pistachios. We're talking about a place that had every sweet, every chocolate, every cookie imaginable, readily available in sealed containers. And he chose nuts.

I always had my eyes on a nightly staple in the palace: warm apple pie. They were made daily, and I could always find at least one cooling on the window sill.

Fuck, now I'm salivating over a fucking pie.

To this day, I humbly have to admit that Cordonia apple pies are the best–don't let the taste of a raw ruby fool you. Something about the bitter compounds reaching a certain temperature causes… something-something to do something… ah, hell. Tell you what. If you're that curious, ask Liam. I mean, I'm assuming he's still a nerd–

"Drake!"

I startle at the greeting, instantly recognizing the tall, broad-shouldered blond striding closer to me, wearing… an apron? The fuck? The apron has the phrase, 'I love you a bushel and a peck'.

Oh, yeah. He's still a fucking dweeb.

His outstretched hand takes mine as he shakes it before pulling me into an embrace. "It's so good to see you, old friend," he pats my back before standing back to take me in.

He looks so different, but undoubtedly, he still looks like Liam Rys. Stray pieces of silver litter his perfectly styled, perfectly placed waves. His strong jawline and high cheekbones were cut more razor-sharp by his more mature, thinned face. His strong chest and the swell of his biceps made him look like a fucking Greek god. Lucky bastard. It's like turning forty didn't wreak havoc on his appearance or metabolism, save for a few fine lines around his eyes and smile.

"Bartie," Liam smiles endearingly, "always a pleasure." He extends his arm to my nephew before the scared kid had a chance to bow. I could see the flood of panic in Bartie’s eyes, but I gave him a reassuring nod as he hesitantly took his majesty's hand.

Don't worry, kid. I won't tell your daddy about your ��poor manners’.

"Please," Liam rests his hand on my shoulder while turning to guide us to the queen's hall, the largest dining area in the palace for private parties. The room boasted an impressive, custom eight-meter-long table that could easily fit twenty-five guests comfortably. "Come, come. Everyone is just being seated." We follow him down the east corridor when suddenly, the savory aroma of roast and… something garlicky teases my senses. Liam obviously caught the delicious waft too, turning back with a devious grin. "I hope you brought some hearty appetites. Riley and I have something special for you tonight."

Riley. Why does the mere mention of her name make me–shit. Get it together, Walker. You're over it.

As expected, my closest friends during my time in Cordonia are all present along with their families. Well, 'friends' might be too strong of a word to use on this crowd. They were nobles and friends of Liam. I was friends with Liam. Ergo, we were friends. Sorta.

My sister Savannah and her husband Bertrand were sitting at the end towards my right, speaking in hushed tones to one another. They came separately from Bartie and myself from their estate since, well, there wasn't enough room for them and the triplets. Yes. You read right. Triplets. As in three babies at once. They had tried for years to have more children with sadly no avail, and it took a terrible toll on their marriage. I still remember Sav's tearful call five years ago, revealing to me that they were separating. I was preparing to hop on a plane to execute my brother-in-law's accidental demise for breaking my little sister's heart when I got a second call a few weeks later. They were pregnant. I got a call a week after that. I had three nieces on the way. Sydnie, Stella and Simone: the cutest little shits you've ever seen… and not just because they have their uncle's dashing good looks.

I'm talking about me, their uncle. Not their other uncle.

Maxwell Beaumont–said other uncle– was sitting next to his brother Bertrand. He officially married Baron Friedrich von Lehndorff twelve years ago when Cordonia overturned their marriage clause of traditional unions. One hundred forty-eight same-gender couples came forward that day to be legally married; Max and Rich led the way to the Capitol. They became a beacon of light and love, not just for Cordonia, but to the world. I remember reading about their march for equality and their victory in my local paper. Maxwell and I weren't necessarily best friends, but a sense of pride bloomed in my chest, seeing him do something so incredible and bold with his life.

He and Rich have a 9-year-old daughter Gia and 4-year-old son Ollie, both adopted from South Korea. Don't tell them I told you, but I follow their TikTok. Those two are fucking adorable.

Across from the Beaumont-von Lehndorffs is the Scarlet Duchess herself. Olivia Nevrakis. And… I almost can't believe the sight myself–

"Hey, Walker!" She waves, a smile growing on her face.

What. The. Fuck. Was she… happy to see me?

She stands up and makes her way around the table of guests to greet me.

With a hug.

Shock number two: she’s touching me in a friendly manner. But that's when I was hit with shock number three.

Is she? No, no… she can't be. Is that a–?

She must've seen the curiosity etching across my face as I stared down at a rounded abdomen that just pressed up against me during our embrace. She instinctively cradles her belly and giggles.

Giggles.

Was I in the Twilight Zone?

She married Amalas a few years after I moved away. I wasn't surprised; the few times Livvy and I hooked up felt odd, like something was missing. I mean, not that I didn't satisfy her. That was never a problem for me with women. Turns out, ol' red was looking for a queen.

Together they serve as queen and queen consort of Monterisso, and apparently are known for creating quite a riot at international events. I'm not surprised. They have four children: Macaela–Amalas’s daughter with her late husband–Josefine, Joaquin, and Joseph. And then baby Timothy will be joining them soon. Because that name makes sense.

I'm starting to feel a little self-conscious. It's been over twenty years, and everyone seems to have grown up. Had families. Changed the world. And what did I have to show? Nothing. I mean, I did have quite a successful construction company that I developed with almost seventy employees under my leadership, but… well, that went under thanks to my business partner fucking me over. Fucking twat-waffle.

But is this really what my life comes down to? Is this how you would sum up my life? Compared to childhood friends, I was still nothing. And here I was again on the coattails of Liam.

An abrupt delicate tink to a wine glass echoes over the various conversations and children squealing, silencing everyone as we turn our attention to the head of the table.

And there she was. Just as breathtaking as the last day that I saw her.

"Drake," she gasps as I pull her into the dark shadows behind the barn. "We can't. Not anymore."

I shake my head, her eyes refusing to meet mine. I took a step towards her, but she instinctively shifts, her back pressing against the wall.

"Brooks–"

"Rys," she interjects, the correction like a serrated blade piercing my skin. A sob escapes her as rivers course down the planes of her velvet skin.

Placing my arm against the splintered wood next to her head, I lean closer to her, capturing her intoxicating scent. My hand slips up her neck, my fingers tenderly lifting her chin to look at me, to captivate me with those ocean eyes.

My thumb caresses her rosy lips, feeling her breath hitch. I flutter my mouth across her wet cheeks, my feather touch kissing away her tears.

But we suddenly freeze.

"Riley?"

Liam's smooth voice carries over the moonlit pasture, drowning out our abilities to hear the bustle of the reception.

"Riley…Don't–"

But it's too late. Before I could stop her, she was gone.

I blink. Casually shifting in my seat, I glance nonchalantly around me. Whew, everyone is still staring at the head of the table. No one seems to notice that I got lost in my thoughts for a moment. I nervously scratch through my stubble before grabbing the water glass in front of me. I take a longass sip of water, but when I pull the glass from my mouth, two crystal-blue orbs with long, flirty lashes are locked on me.

Fuck, I choke on the water on my attempt to swallow it down. I start coughing violently as Maxwell starts patting my back.

"You okay there, Drakey?"

I finally take a gulp of air, and glare at him. "Yes… and it's Drake, Maxi pad." Okay. I admit it. It was childish to retaliate by calling him the name me and some of the other guys called Maxwell growing up. But to my surprise, he laughs before finger-gunning me.

"Good one, Drake. I haven't heard that in years."

I turn back to our royal hosts just in time for Liam to give me a friendly nod, as if to ensure that I'm okay without creating more of a scene. But when I glance over at Riley, she quickly averts her eyes, slipping her hand into Liam's.

Jesus Christ. If that was a sign of how things were going to be, her cowering and treating me like I'm some kind of criminal for something she did willingly… something she pursued… fuck that. Send me back to Texas.

"We brought wine!" Rich singsongs, pulling out two large bottles from a nearby refrigerated wine rack. "Who'd like–?"

I refused to let the poor bastard finish.

"Me."

------

I can't remember a single time in my life where I have been so positively and exuberantly grateful for Maxwell fucking Beaumont. He fended off the anticipated awkwardness and helped the dinner conversation progress, making the casual assist to include me in this special meal that was supposedly in my honor.

I'm not saying the others were rude to me, Liam especially. He was treating me like a long lost brother, like the prodigal son that has finally returned home. And I'm not going to lie: it felt good to be reunited with him.

But Riley couldn't even look me in the eye, and judging by the flashes of guilt and her over-eagerness to leave the room every chance she got, I know she never told her husband the truth about our relationship. He had his suspicions. And I owned up to falling for her, thus the ending of our friendship and me moving to Texas. I mean, I thought it was the end…

But, I didn't just fall for her; it wasn't pining for her from afar, hoping she would give me the time of day.

We were in love.

"This was absolutely divine," Savannah sings praises, taking a sip of her tea. Everyone begins chiming in with their sentiments, thanking the royal couple for the delicious meal. Yes, they prepared it. I know; I was impressed myself.

Individual conversations continue through dessert and coffee when suddenly, the ring of a phone interrupts us into silence.

"Excuse me," Amalas whispers with the phone against her ear, "I need to take this. It's Josie."

Liam and Riley flash looks of concern at one another. "I hope everything is okay," Riley says softly as she twirls her necklace between her fingers, turning to her husband with a more hushed tone. "Did Ellie text you?"

Liam is already looking at his phone, but he's casually shaking his head, appearing more relaxed than his wife. His gaze catches my curious look as I try to put the pieces together of what's going on this evening.

"Josie–err, Josefine–is out with our Eleanor and Madeleine's daughter Bethany this evening."

Ah, that's right… Josefine must go by Josie, Amalas’s second daughter, her first daughter with Olivia. Shit, I can’t keep these spawn straight….

"Crisis averted!" Amalas sweeps back into the room, placing her cell into her pocket. "The girls said the restaurant was too crowded, so they're going over to the Vancoeur's for a–" she imitates an American valley girl, "girls' night."

"Vancoeur?" I mutter, turning to Maxwell. "Did he… reproduce, too?" The idea sounded ridiculous. What woman lowered her standards that low to sleep with that bastard?

"Yep," Maxwell responds, "he has a beautiful daughter." He takes an obnoxious sip of his espresso. "You know, Bethany, the girl that's out with Eleanor and Josie."

No. Fucking. Way.

"I thought Beth was Madeleine's kid?"

"It is." Maxwell chuckles as mischief glows in his eyes. "Oh Drakey, you missed it. Maddie and Neville were actually married for about ten years." Pulling a napkin up to his mouth, he lowers his voice. "Rumor has it she was about to lose what was left of her inheritance, slept with that weasel, then faked a pregnancy to get him to propose." He snickers. "I wish I could've been a fly on the wall when her fake pregnancy turned out to be a real pregnancy."

"What the–?"

"Mhrmm," Maxwell bounces his eyebrows, "she claims she had no idea." He stares at me intently before rolling his eyes and gesturing with his hand a dramatically large curve over his stomach. “Agnes, my seamstress–can you believe she’s still working for us? Well, anyway, that woman can work absolute miracles…” He takes another sip of his drink. He quiets his voice while he averts his eyes, slowly crossing his legs. “There was no hiding that bump.”

I shake my head in disbelief, chuckling under my breath when suddenly, I feel a large hand on my shoulder. I whip around quickly, pulling my body away, when I see–

"Shit, Li–"

"I didn't mean to interrupt," he offers a friendly smile.

I blow away the air I had quickly sucked in, willing my heartbeat to slow down. I guess I'm still a little on edge being here, but fuck, that scared me.

"I thought before you left tonight, we could discuss, um… arrangements. For you."

"Yeah… yeah, of course." Following his lead, we start to make our way to the exit for privacy.

When Liam invited me to Cordonia, he was very specific that he wanted to help me get back on my feet. And I believe him. I know his generosity is genuine; he doesn't have any ulterior motives or some secret vendetta against me from the past. At least I hope he doesn't. But this isn't a vacation for me; part of the deal was I needed to work. I'm not sure if that meant finding temp jobs or something more long-term.

“Do I smell imported cheap whiskey?”

I stop short of the door.

Fuck me. Leo Rys. Liam’s older brother and notorious international womanizer. The man just turned fifty last year, and it’s like he unlocked a new group of admirers, especially now that he’s sportin’ a little silver around the edges these days.

He and Liam are complete polar opposites. Apples and oranges. Night and day. If Liam was thoughtful and selfless… well, you get the gist. And clearly by his entrance, I’m discovering that some things never change.

As if his deep bellow wasn’t warning enough, his black leather boots announce his presence as he struts across the polished tile, his arm hooked around his helmet. He slaps his free hand on my shoulder, squeezing it firmly as he obnoxiously sniffs me.

"Cheap whiskey… and… is that a hint of beef jerky and cow patties I'm detecting?"

"Good to see you, too." Jackass. I slap his chest before pushing him off of me. I may have used a little more force than I should've. My bad.

"Am I late for dinner?" He slaps Liam on the back before walking towards the kitchen.

Liam sighs. "Just… a little–"

"Ahh, don't worry," he stops to kiss Riley on the cheek. "I'll serve myself."

As Leo disappears, Liam and I give each other a knowing look before leaving the room as well.

------

"Trust me, you're going to love what Riley has done with the guest quarters."

Liam and I had a good talk. A really good talk. We didn't have to say it, but it was clear: we missed each other. We missed our camaraderie, the confidence we had in one another. He was the first person I called when Dad died; I was the first person he called when Leo abdicated. We grew up and became men together.

But then Riley Brooks happened… but, I'm guessing you know that by now.

Liam has already a number of jobs for me to sift through, several carefully picked out that would play to my strengths with architecture and construction. But since these jobs were either on the grounds or here locally in the Capitol, he insisted I move into one of the private guest quarters with its own private entrance and balcony.

'You don't need to be making that drive from Ramsford everyday.' He's right. It's quite the journey, not to mention I don't exactly have a vehicle of my own here. So, I'm back in the palace. Ain't life a bitch?

"Now I hope you don't mind all-electric. The gas lines and how they were designed don’t–"

"Beggars can't be choosers, love."

Her words are like ice, the sharp chill making even her husband shudder.

"Riley–"

"What?" She giggles under her breath. "I was joking." She turns a venomous stare towards me. "Drake knows I'm kidding. Don't you, Drake?"

I clear my throat. "Yeah," I play along, "good one."

"Love?" She slips her hand around Liam's arm, lowering her voice into a whisper. "Bartie Beaumont has requested to speak with you privately."

"Oh!" Liam brightens. "Sure. Of course." He gives me a pleasant nod. "Excuse me, Drake. And, please. Feel free to look around." He begins to make his way towards the dining area, Riley following in step behind with no acknowledgement to me.

I breathe a sigh of relief. I needed a moment to myself anyway.

"Actually," Liam turns on his heel, waving a finger in the air. "On second thought, Love?" He smiles lovingly towards Riley, placing his hands affectionately on her shoulders. "How about you go show Drake the renovations you made?"

Shit.

------

Riley barely spoke two words to me besides pointing to the obvious fixtures and control buttons in the guest suite.

Light... Refrigerator… Bathroom…

"This, uh, looks really nice," I try to converse, combing my fingers through my hair. "I never thought I'd see the day this room would have a–"

"We don't have to do this." She walks out of the room and into another part of the suite.

Why was she being such a frigid bitch?

Fuck, I need a smoke.

I take a deep breath, shoving my hands in my pockets as I stroll back out into the hallway of the apartment.

"Is there anything else you needed to see?" She swallows thickly. She tries to remain stoic with a stiff bottom lip. Her jaw ticks… but her glare betrays her as something else brews that I … can’t quite discern.

But then, without warning, Riley's eyes roam down my body, catching on the crotch of my khakis before returning to my face.

Eyes up here, your majesty.

She clears her throat, pretending I didn't just catch her checking me out. "Um, anything else you wanted to see… of the suite, that is? Because, uh, we should probably –" she shuffles backwards, pointing aimlessly behind her, towards the door.

"You go on ahead," I tell her. "I'm gonna check out the balcony if you don't mind."

A heated swirl of rouge ignites on Riley’s cheeks. She nods, turning on her heel quickly without saying a word, and exits the apartment in record time.

Thank God. I don't know what just happened, but… this is a very interesting turn of events. Does she still have feelings for me?

No. Stop.

Shit. Maybe moving in is a mistake.

I make my way outside, and damn. The view from this balcony is stunning. It actually overlooks the Cordonia countryside, which means less lights from the city and plenty of stars to be seen at night. It's... actually a nice reminder of home.

Taking a seat on the balustrade, I pull out a cigarette and nestle it between my teeth as I search for my lighter. I pat my pockets, both in the back and front of my pants before checking my shirt.

Shit. Can the universe just pass me a fucking bone?

I slump over, resting my elbows on my knees. Holding my hands in front of me, I begin to pick at my calluses as the events of the evening replay like a movie reel in my head.

But suddenly, there's a snick, then a spark; then a single flame is held in front of me. Fishing my cigarette out from behind my ear, I fix it between my lips and lean into the fire. I pull heavily, deeply until the familiar burn touches my anxious nerves, and I blow away my initial puff.

"You know smoking can kill you."

I raise an eyebrow at the deep voice, taking another inhale before blowing it in Leo's face.

"Malaka."

I chuckle at his insult, watching that smug grin pull out his own cigarette to light. He leans against the side of the balcony before hoisting himself up onto the balustrade.

"So," he licks his lips, looking at me inquisitively. "How does it feel to be back in lovely Cordonia?"

I look at him, scrunching my face. Really? That's the best you can do? I look back down, flicking some ash on the ground.

"How does it feel–" he blows smoke over his shoulder, "--being back close to Riley?"

My head shot up.

"Ohhh," he snickers, "that got Walker's attention really fast."

How the fuck does Leo know? How the fuck does Leo know anything? I can feel my heart begin to pound, my eyebrows furrowing in anger.

"Now hold up, Walker," he holds up his hands in defense. "I come in peace. I don't care that you fucked my sister-in-law once upon a time… okay, fine. Maybe just a little–"

"What do you want, Leo?" I interrupt, irritation baited in my voice.

He looks down fidgeting with his fingers. When he turns back to me, he has an indiscernible expression on his face, as if a wave of vulnerability is crashing over him.

"I know it can be… challenging, you know? Moving back to Cordonia after a hiatus, and I figured tonight was probably a lot for you."

And now Leo is trying to have a heart-to-heart with me… What the fuck happened to these people while I was gone?

"I thought maybe… you could use a friend."

"Well," I stand up, taking a step away. "Thanks. I appreciate it–"

"I mean it," he holds a hand to his chest. "Say–" he jumps to his feet, sandwiching himself between me and the door. "What are you doing tonight?"

Besides leading the exciting life of letting my nephew drive me back to his parent's house, eating a bag of Doritos in my boxers and getting shit-faced?

"There's a new club opening in town tonight. Tons of people. Who's who. VIP–"

"Thanks, but–" I try to shove past him, but he stops me, putting his hands against my chest.

"Six full bars, and–" he wiggles his eyebrows. "Lots… and lots… of fresh Cordonian-grade pussy. How do you like them apples?"

Like I said, some things never change.

"C’mon, Walker… you in?"

~🖤~

Tags (Please let me know if you'd like to be added/removed)

PERMA

@alj4890 @ao719 @charlotteg234 @issabees @kat-tia801 @kingliam2019 @mainstreetreader @mom2000aggie @nikirennie87 @peonierose @socalwriterbee @tessa-liam

ALL TRR

@3pawandme @alyshak92 @iaminlovewithtrr @lovingchoices14 @malblk21 @rubiwalker @sfb123 @twinkleallnight

DEJA VU

@busywoman @walkerdrakewalker

------

Thank you so much for your support! Every like, comment and reblog means the world to me! 🖤

#the royal romance #the royal heir #choices the royal romance #choices the royal heir #choices trr #liam rys #king liam #liam x mc #liam x riley #drake walker #princess eleanor #bartie beaumont #maxwell beaumont #olivia nevrakis #choices fanfic #choices fanfiction #trr fanfic #trr fanfiction #leo rys

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mikkythehamster · 1 year

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My illustration for the xmas contest in IDVglobal. ★Tik tok ★ Instagram ★ Store ★ Twitter ★

#identityv #idv #identity v #freddy riley #frederick kreiburg #emma woods #demi bourbon #kreacher pierson #emily dyer #leo beck #norton campbell #composer idv #lawyer idv #thief idv #fred x fred #freacher #myart

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msjr0119 · 1 year

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WIP

Thanks for the tag @txemrn

I know it’s now Tuesday sorry 🫢🤦🏻‍♀️- better late than never 🙈 I’m always late to the party but it’s been a crazy LONG ASS weekend because of King Charles’s coronation here in the UK… I’m suffering bad with a long bank holiday hangover 😵

Ignore any errors! 😂

Please only over 18s! ⚠️🔞

****

THIS LIFE (future chapter)

“Nate! We have to talk about this… this is our marriage on the line.” Riley pleaded, reaching for her husbands arm. Pushing her away, he slumped against the kitchen island before eventually facing Riley.

“About what, Riley? How you’ve been writing a journal about fucking your ex, how much you miss him… what marriage?”

“No.. you don’t understand! I have always wrote a journal since having Preston. You know that…. And… and… do you want to know the truth?” The silence caused Riley to realise that no matter what she explained or said, Nate wouldn’t believe her. “The only reason that I bumped into Drake was because he’s… he’s in a relationship with Olivia.” Only a white lie, Riley convinced herself.

“Of course you’d say that…” Letting out a sarcastic laugh, he shook his head . “So let me get this straight…. Your best friend forever and your ex are together? Are a couple?”

“YES! Olivia and Drake are together… they coincidently met in Paris when she had that conference…”

“Sure.”

“Well if you don’t believe me, why don’t we invite Drake to Lindsey’s and Liam’s bbq? That will prove that the journal is just shit, that they are both an item.”

What have I just suggested?

****

The Unexpected Roommate (previously on hiatus after my long hiatus)

“It’s ‘oh so quiet’... awww she’s made us a cake with a message on it, Drake.”

Au reviour, Dickheads...Ri xo

“She’s a fucking scruff! Have you seen all of the burnt cupcakes? The washing up pile? Food everywhere! She’s fucked off and not cleaned up after herself!”

“Drake, calm down. You’re going to give yourself a heart attack. How the two of you lived together and not killed each other is beyond me. Let’s tuck in.” Drake shook his head as he watched Leo dive in like a starved caveman. Staring vacantly at the scene surrounding them, he had no idea where to begin to clean up after Riley.

“This is disgusting! It tastes weird... just try a bit, buddy. I think my taste buds are playing tricks with me.” Taking one glance at the cake, Drake rolled his eyes back after inhaling the aroma of ‘the sponge cake’.

“It tastes weird because it’s not what you’d usually top a cake or dessert with. How stupid could you be eating something before smelling it?”

“It looked soooo scrumptious. When you’ve been drinking, you’re starving. What is it then Mr Clever clogs?” Leo sarcastically asked.

“You use it with a razor!” Drake confirmed to an unconvinced Leo who’s mind couldn’t work out the ‘riddle’.

#theroyalromance #choices trr #trr fanfic #riley brooks #drake walker #tw swearing #riley x drake #Leo Rys #the unexpected roommate trr #this life trr fanfic #tw marriage breakdown

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angelasscribbles · 2 years

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Bad Romance Disney Adventure Chapter 1: Stuck in LA

Miniseries: Bad Romance Disney Adventure

Main Series: Bad Romance

Fandom: The Royal Romance

Pairings: Riley x Liam, Liam x Max, Riley x Max, Riley x Drake, Riley x Leo (past)

Rating: MA

Warnings for this chapter: Language, Sex will be mentioned

Word Count: 2,078

A/N: Special shout out to @nestledonthaveone and @queen-arabella-of-cordonia for the asks that inspired/launched this little endeavor.

A/N 2: @dcbbw gave me the idea that they wouldn't stay in a hotel, but would have royal residences around the world, and that they could be in LA for Max's latest movie. I ran with that and just for extra chaos, I made it the house Leo lives in and threw him into the mix. THEN @dcbbw said wouldn't it be funny if Riley and Leo had some kind of a past together? We bounced some ideas around and the lines, "Everyone but you baby" and “Leo, that was a very long time ago. That was…..” Liam counted on his fingers, “At least five lovers and four children ago.” are both hers, I have just used them with impunity as well as her permission.

Disclaimer: I know I won't be the first person to ever put Leo and Riley together in some capacity. Most notably @queenrileyrose. Truly, if you haven't read her stuff, go read it because it's amazing! This is my little Bad Romance twist on Leo and Riley and I hope I've done them justice. As always, any similarities to anyone else's work in purely unintentional and coincidental.

My other stuff: Master List.

“This fucking sucks!” Drake sent his water bottle flying across the room to crash into the wall three feet from Max’s head.

Max flinched, “Geez, yeah, I know you’re upset but-“

“Shut the fuck up, Beaumont, this your fucking fault!” Drake pointed a finger at him.

“It’s not Max’s fault, Drake! Stop taking it out on him.” Riley chastised.

“The fuck it isn’t! He’s the whole reason we’re in California to start with!”

“Cuddle bear, listen.” Riley struggled to walk across the room to him, one arm resting on her very pregnant belly, the other pushing into the small of her back. When she reached him, she took his face between her hands, “I was the one that wanted to come with him. He was going to come by himself, remember?”

Drake sighed and nodded. “But-“

“No buts, babe. I insisted on coming and then you insisted on coming with me-“

“I’m the head of your security, I go where you go, you know that!” He said petulantly.

“I know that, Drake. My point is that I was the one that chose to come, and I was the one that chose to stay.”

“Stop trying to handle me, Riley and sit back down. You need to stay off your feet.” His anger whooshed out of him as he shifted into protector mode.

“Great news!” Liam chirped out as he sailed into the room, “Dr. Russo can be here by tomorrow! She’s on her way to our private airstrip now. The backup jet is on standby.”

“They have doctors in LA, Liam.” Riley told him.

“They don’t have your doctor. She’s been monitoring you the entire pregnancy and you need her. She’s coming.”

The door opened again, interrupting their conversation, “What are you fuckers still doing in my house? I thought you were leaving.”

“First of all, it’s not your house, Leo.” Liam pinched the bridge of his nose, “It belongs to the crown, I just let you live here, rent free I might add so-“

“Riley can’t travel, she’s passed the 36 week of pregnancy mark and they won’t let her fly.” Max blurted out.

Leo turned to Riley in astonishment, “How the hell could you not know how far along you are?”

“Well-“

Liam and Drake spoke at the exact same time.

“Oh, shut the fuck up, Leo!” Liam said.

“Swear to God, Rys, I’ll knock you the fuck out!”

Leo crossed his arms over his chest, “That would be treason.”

“Fuck it would.” Drake scoffed, “You aren’t prince, king or really shit anymore and we’re on American soil.”

“I’d pardon you anyway.” Liam told him.

“Thanks.”

“Well, this is very touching.” Leo rolled his eyes, “But I still don’t understand how the hell this happened.”

Riley couldn’t resist the urge to be sarcastic, “Well, when a mommy and a daddy love each other very much-“

“Ha ha ha. I mean, seriously, how did you not plan better?”

“We were supposed to leave three days ago, and that would have been under the wire.” Max explained, “But there were some last minute adjustments to the script that required my input.”

“Right. This is the Royal Romance three? Four?”

“Four.” Max replied with a grin. “The Royal Romance 4: Lost in New York.”

“Based on the summer you guys spent in New York when Riley went back to settle her grandmother’s estate?”

“A fictionalized account of it.” Liam emphasized. The whole thing made him look completely clueless about how to navigate life outside the palace. Honestly, Max had just run out of good material after the second or third book.

“Mostly fictionalized.” Drake smirked at him. Liam had been pretty clueless that summer.

“Yeah, watching you try to figure out how to work a washing machine was fucking hilarious!” Max chortled.

Liam gave him a withering look, “Like you did any better.”

“Ok, ok, don’t start arguing. The point is, I didn’t want to go back without Max and the extra day turned into two, which turned into three and now here we are, stuck.” Riley finished.

“So, you’ll be here for, what, another month?” Leo asked.

Liam shook his head, “I mean…we’re not flying with a newborn so more like two months. I’ll fly back and forth for business if absolutely necessary, but Riley, Drake and Max will be here for the duration.”

“Fuck.” Leo muttered under his breath. This was seriously going to put a crimp in his whoring around.

“Leo, I’m hurt. It sounds like you don’t want to hang out and bond with us.” Max pouted.

“No offense Beaumont, but you guys aren’t exactly fun.”

“Afraid we’re going to cramp your style?” Drake snorted.

“Yes, actually.” Leo answered before turning to Riley with a wink, “Everyone but you baby.”

Riley gave him a little smile as she bit into her lip and rocked her body from side to side.

“What the hell?” Drake looked between Leo and Riley in confusion. “What’s happening?”

“Leo, that was a very long time ago. That was…..” Liam counted on his fingers, “At least five lovers and four children ago.”

“More than five.” Riley smirked, “Hell, that was before Nick.”

“Wait. What?!” Drake exploded.

“Oh. My. God!” Leo’s face lit up in delight, “You didn’t know?”

“I…that….” Drake felt like he was going to hyperventilate.

“It’s ok, it’s ok buddy.” Max soothed in the voice he used when one of the children was having a meltdown, as he rubbed Drake’s shoulders.

“Stop it, Max. I am not a child.”

“I mean…you do act like one sometimes though, don’t you? It’s why we don’t tell you things.” Max replied.

Drake blinked then turned to Riley, “So everyone knew about this but me?”

She nodded. “I had no idea who Leo was at the time. So, it was quite a shock when I saw him at the coronation ball and figured out he was Liam’s brother!”

Riley spotted Liam across the ballroom and made her way over to him. Her eyes were locked on him as she approached so she didn’t notice who he was talking to.

“Riley?! What are you doing here?” A voice from the past pulled her attention.

“Leo? What are you doing here?”

“You two know each other?” Liam’s head swiveled between them.

“Know her? This is the woman I was telling you about! The one from New York that just fucking disappeared on me!”

“Oh no….”

“Oh no, what?” Leo looked back and forth between Liam and Riley.

Liam cleared this throat, “Riley is about to be my fiancé, I’m going to marry her.”

“What? How?” Leo demanded.

“Let’s go have a talk, privately.” Liam suggested.

Drake stared at her in consternation, “Where was I when this revelation occurred?”

“Outside at the bar where I left you, pouting.”

“I wasn’t pouting! I don’t-“

“Dude, you were a wreck that night. Sorry, but it’s true.” Max held his hands up in front of him. “I was having my own struggles with the situation, but even I could tell you were in your fucking feelings.”

“Fine. Whatever. I’m just surprised Liam didn’t tell me at the time.”

“Well, all hell broke loose later that night if you’ll remember, so I had other things on my mind at the time.” Liam told him acridly.

“Right. But still, I’d think that someone would have mentioned it at some point in all the years since. I mean, Beaumont knows!” Drake gestured at Max.

Max shrugged, “She’s always told me everything and we did spend three weeks together immediately after the coronation with nothing else to do but talk and fu-“

“Ok, we get the idea Max!” Leo slapped him in the chest, “If I’d known she was at Ramsford instead of on a plane back to New York, things would have ended differently.”

“No, they wouldn’t have.” Riley rolled her eyes.

“You told Max, but not me.” Drake said accusingly.

“Yeah!” She cried in exasperation.

“Why?”

Riley shrugged expansively, “We knew it would just upset you.”

“Yeah, Walker. She knew you couldn’t handle knowing she’d been with a real man!” Leo gloated.

“Leo, I swear to God, if you don’t shut your fucking cakehole-“

“See?” Riley shot him an I told you so look.

“But baby,” He pulled her into his arms as he made a conscious decision to ignore Leo, “I’ve gotten better.”

“Ah, snuggle bug, you have.” She crooned as she caressed his face and he leaned into it, “I guess it just hasn’t come up. I don’t really think about it much. It was a long time ago and it wasn’t a big deal.”

“What do you mean it wasn’t a big deal?” Leo exclaimed, “That was one of the most amazing weekends of my life!”

“Weekend?” Drake’s jaw clenched tightly.

“Yes, weekend. I met her in New York, just after I’d abdicated. We met at the BRIC festival, she was wearing this tiny little halter top that you would not-“

“I swear to God, Leo, shut your fucking mouth!” Drake looked down at Riley, “Sorry babe.”

Riley pulled out of Drake’s embrace and walked over to Leo, “Stop trying to provoke him, ok?”

Drake turned to Liam, lowering his voice so only Liam could hear him, “How the hell do you not punch him in his smug fucking face every time he brings this up?”

Liam smiled indulgently, “I don’t have to. He does it to himself, every time. Wait for it.”

Drake’s eyes went back across the room where Leo held his hands up in the air, “All I’m saying is that it was an amazing weekend, and we shared a real connection, right baby?”

“Eh,” Riley shrugged, “I mean, we had some fun.”

“Ok, first of all, it seemed like more than that to me. I mean, we had fun,” he quirked his fingers in the air to form imaginary quotation marks around the word fun, “seven times that weekend. Second of all, you’ve still never explained why you left without even telling me goodbye.”

“What?” Drake barked out a laugh.

Leo’s eyes flicked up to Drake, “She just completely ghosted me! I went out for coffee and bagels and when I came back, she was just gone! No note, nothing!”

“And….there it is!” Liam stifled the satisfied giggle that burbled up in his throat, “He’s still salty about it! He couldn’t keep her attention for more than a few days and I married her!”

“I’m sorry, Leo.” She placed her hand on his arm, “You’re just not really my type, that’s all. But I’m sure you’ll make some woman very happy someday.”

“Not your type?” Leo stared at her in disbelief, “Seven times, Riley, seven times!”

“I said it was fun.” She waved him off dismissively, “I’m sure you replaced me by the next night.”

“That’s hardly the point!”

“I think that is the point.” Liam told him, “You just want what you can’t have, that’s all.”

“No, I-“

“Ok, I’m tired of this conversation.” Riley dropped herself onto the couch, “What the hell are we going to do for fun until the baby gets here?”

“Oh yeah, I forgot to tell you the best part!” Liam turned back to Riley, “I know everyone is bummed about being stuck here for the next two months so….we’re going to Disneyland!”

“What?!” Maxwell bounded across the room and threw himself into Liam’s arms with a squeal, “This is the greatest idea you’ve ever had!”

“Are you sure that’s a good idea?” Drake asked in concern. “Riley is eight months pregnant!”

“Oh, it’s fine.” Riley assured him, “I still have a month to go. And the kids will absolutely love it!”

“I don’t know,” Drake mused, as he took a seat on the couch next to her. “Jax is only two, he won’t even remember-“

“We’ll take plenty of pictures!” Riley waved him off, “Ellie and Xander will remember.” At eight and five, the older children would be getting an experience of a lifetime.

“Fine.” Drake sighed, his brain already spinning with the logistical nightmare of protecting everyone while they were there.

“Would you like to join us, Leo?” Liam invited, just to be polite.

Leo opened his mouth to decline, but then his eyes went to Drake sitting next to Riley on his couch, arm wrapped around her protectively as his eyes shot daggers at Leo.

Leo returned Drake’s glower with a bright smile, as he told Liam, “Why thank you, little bro, I’d love to!”

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leowritesshit · 1 year

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Ok- I'm gonna work on the Werewolf!Ghost fic I have in WIP-

Uh- I want to at least make the first chapter 1.5k words so ye-

I don't have a distinct plotline planned but I do know at the end I want them to be "Married" in a metaphorical sense. Idk how I'll do that but I'll figure it out when we get there.

(I honestly think Ghost would be apprehensive to marriage because he believes it's bullshit but shhhhh)

#ghost x soap #ghoap #john soap mactavish #simon riley #simon ghost riley #soap mw2 #ghost mw2 #soap cod #soap mactavish #ghostsoap #Leo's Rambles #werewolf!ghost #Human!Soap #Soap knows all the base drama and roumors #He however did not know about the werewolf rumors on base #fanfic #fandom #ghost #cod mw2

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ghostroachtruther · 6 months

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i dont have any new ghsotroach drawings but i do have ghostroach as tweets to hold u guys over while im too tired to doodle ☝💀 have fun w these crumbs i lovingly made

(side note: i hc ghost to secretly be a major loser/simp when he gets into a rs so this is reflected in the tweets 💪 if u think its ooc thats fine but its just a harmless hc yk)

#“this is lazy content leo” hushhhh just enjoy fr #ghostroach #ghost x roach #the skeleton and the bug #gary roach sanderson #cod roach #simon ghost riley #cod ghost #call of duty #cod #cod mwii #mw2 #cod mw2 #modern warfare 2 #modern warfare ii #the shooty mcshoot game #large loud leo

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tessa-liam · 1 year

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Smoke and Mirrors

We're Ready For Anything

Chapter 7

Smoke and Mirrors

-7- We're Ready for Anything

Book: The Royal Romance Finale +, Alternate Universe

Catch Up: Smoke and Mirrors Masterlist

Main Pairing: Liam Rys x F!MC Riley Brooks-Rys, OTP ‘Liri’

2nd Pairings: Leo Rys x Amalas, Drake Walker x F!OC Delaney Leigh, Olivia Nevrakis x M!OC Alex Cossoy

All characters belong to Pixelberry, except Delaney Leigh, Officer Alex Cossoy, Geoffrey Bessler (Amalas’ head guard.)

Rating: M🔞*Series Warnings: NSFW material, sexual innuendo, adult innuendo, adult language/swearing/drinking, gun violence.

Not Beta'd, please excuse all errors.

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

Words: 2274, Read: 10 minutes

Chapter 7: We’re Ready for Anything

Chapter Summary: Liam and Riley find out more about their twins and Lena is captured by Interpol.

Music and Title Inspiration: Ready for Anything, Landon Austin

A/N1: My submission for @choicesflashfics Week #32, Prompt #2 - “Sometimes memories can be the worst form of torture.”

A/N2: My submission for May Choices Monthly Challenge @choiceschallenge-may2023 @jerzwriter @maychallenge prompts - Mother’s Day, holding hands/ crying /caress

King’s Study, Cordonian Palace

It was late into the evening as Liam opened the financial report for Portavira on his computer. Taking note that Duke Ebrim was requesting a sizeable amount of emergency funds for the coastal region in the form of stipends.

Opening his e-mail to respond, a knock on his study door got his attention.

“Come.” Liam called out and continued typing, not taking his focus off the screen.

“Hey, Li. Am I interrupting?” Drake asked hesitantly.

Without looking up, Liam answered, “Drake, hey...what brings you here tonight?”

“Well, I need your advice on something.”

Closing his laptop, Liam stood up and walked to his bar cart, picking up two glasses and a bottle of Macallan.

Liam chuckled, “Why do I think this has something to do with a certain blond in your life?”

“Yeah, well...”

Pouring two glasses of scotch, Liam slid one to Drake and sat back down, taking a sip.

“Delaney wants to visit her parents in Austin....and she wants me to go with her.”

Drake exhaled a breath and Liam grinned.

“So, what’s the problem, Drake? Nervous about meeting your future in-laws?”

Drake shot his friend a look, and Liam roared in laughter.

“Seriously, Drake? This is not a problem, buddy!”

“Yeah, well...the thing is, her parents are pressuring her to move back home to the States. Laney is seriously considering it.”

Shaking his head, “Laney wants me to move back with her.”

Liam looked at his friend, noting the conflict in his expression.

“I don’t want to lose her, Li. I also don’t want to leave Cordonia.”

Queen’s Study, Monterissian Palace

“Geoffrey, do you have the video footage of the arrest from last night taken outside the palace?”

Amalas spoke to her guard through the speakerphone on her desk.

“Not at this time, your majesty. Interpol has not uploaded the file yet to our systems.”

“Wait a second. Pause and rewind...what did you just say?” Leo asked incredulously.

“Your majesty?” Geoffrey asked questionably.

“Leo, its protocol that the Interpol inspectors have access to all palace systems ahead of my Royal guard.” Amalas answered.

“Access, yes, but to commandeer all viewing?” Leo challenged.

“Thank you, Geoffrey, that will be all at this time.” Amalas tapped the app closed and spun around her chair, glaring at Leo.

“What the hell, Ams? You are taking orders from some ‘suit’ in Lyon, France? ….Why?”

“First of all, I don’t care for your tone. Do. Not. Speak. To. Me. Like I don’t run this country! Especially in front of my people.” Amalas countered angrily.

Leo sat back in his chair and closed his eyes. It was a challenge for the former Crown Prince to remember not to interject his personal opinions into conversations with the Monterissian Royal guard.

Amalas is the Queen, and he was overstepping.

“Secondly, I appreciate the expertise and assistance of Interpol.”

Leo sighed, shaking his head in disbelief. “I am surprised, to say the least. The ‘Spy Queen’ needing help in her own country.”

“And thirdly,” Amalas stood and frowned at Leo. “I am respecting the King of Cordonia’s request for a united front to uncover the truth behind the duplicity of the Royal guard in our countries.”

“Leo, we need to ‘cut the head off’ of this faction. There is someone or something controlling and directing operatives, like Bastien in Cordonia, that has infiltrated our highest security levels in the Royal guard of our countries.”

“Case in point: how a known fugitive can gain access to my private chambers, can pass through my security protocols. Allowed access to the Crown Princess of visiting monarchs, no less.”

“I get it Ams, I really do. ….and I am truly sorry.” Leo sighed and shook his head.

Amalas stood and walked over to Leo. Taking his face in her hands, she kissed his lips sweetly and touched her forehead to his.

Clearing his throat, Geoffrey stood outside the open door and waited to make his presence known.

“Your majesty.”

Amalas turned to look at her head guard. “Yes, Geoffrey?”

“Interpol has successfully captured and detained the security breach.”

Cordonian Palace

It was shortly after 1 am when Liam returned to the south wing of the palace. Loosening his tie, he nodded at Mara as she stood guard outside of Eleanor’s chambers and continued to walk to his personal chamber he shared with Riley.

After preparing for bed, he opened the veranda door and stepped out into the cool night air. Looking out over the gardens, he took a deep breath and smiled. Tomorrow, he and Riley would find out the sex of their twin babies. He grinned thinking about all the possibilities, but if he was being truly honest with himself, he favored having a son. Or...he chuckled, maybe another Ellie.

Shaking his head, he decided to turn in for the night to get some sleep considering the day would bring much excitement for him and his family.

Approaching his side of the king-sized bed, he noticed that Riley’s side of the bed was slept in, but Riley was not in bed.

Liam went to his closet and slid on a pair of sweatpants. After stepping into the hallway, he returned down the hall towards Ellie’s chambers. He quietly opened her bedroom door and entered the darkened room. Beside her canopy bed, the single night light glowed, and he saw his daughter's outline. Wrapped snugly and securely in her mother’s arms, she was fast asleep along with Riley.

As he placed a soft kiss on Ellie’s forehead, Riley awoke and smiled. “Hi”, Riley whispered and touched his hand. After carefully detaching her arms from her daughter, she rose from bed to join her husband in their bedroom.

Liam closed the door behind him, after following Riley.

Joining his wife under the silk sheets, he wrapped his arm around her waist and pulled her close to him.

“That’s better,” nuzzling her neck.

Smiling, Riley ran her fingers through his soft hair. “Working late tonight?”

“Yes, and no... Drake came to see me tonight.”

“Oh really, and here I thought you were avoiding me,” Riley smirked.

“Never!” Liam playfully teased.

“So, what was so important for Drake to pay such a late visit?"

“AHHHH, well...he wanted my advice. Drake is debating whether he should a, stay in Cordonia; or b, move to Delaney's home in Texas. And c, where he should go with his relationship with Delaney.”

Riley looked at her husband, “I know what you said.”

“I know you do, love,” kissing Riley’s nose.

“Home is where your love of your life is. I asked him what his true feelings were for Delaney. Once he can honestly answer that question, he will have his answer.”

Monterrisian Palace

The temperature in the Monterrisian palace holding cell area was at least 10 degrees cooler in the lower-level security offices. Amalas and Leo followed the Interpol officers and were shown to the viewing privacy window. Amalas was accustomed to the temperature change, but Leo had shivers go down his spine; from the temperature change, or nerves, or both.

On the other side of that window, Lena Rys was sitting in a chair alongside a female Royal guard. On the other side of the table sat Alex Cossoy and Olivia Nevrakis.

Amalas listened intently to the questioning, while Leo stared at the blond woman. Shock, mixed with disbelief left him speechless.

“What is your end game?” Olivia asked impatiently

“My end game is to take my place in the Rys family,” Lena coolly answered.

Olivia eyed Lena in disdain.

“My mother told me that my father wanted to hide me from my half-brother. That the ‘Cordonian royal family can’t find out who I really am... for my sake’.”

“’That’s horrible’,” Olivia sighed.

“’I didn’t want to believe those things about my family, but my mother had never lied to me’.”

"Your mother?"

"Yes, Sigrid took care of me in place of my true mother."

“You were brainwashed, she was obviously lying to you!” Olivia seethed.

“’I saw what Cordonia’s royal family really thinks of me when King Constantine came to Vallenheim for a diplomatic visit’.”

“’King Constantine told my mother that he wanted no part in foreign influences on Cordonia. He said that Queen Eleanor is gone. Which is why he wanted nothing to do with me. That Eleanor was her friend, but that association ended when Eleanor died. He does not owe us anything’.”

“My mother wanted me to meet my brothers, but Constantine said ‘he won’t be guilted with a child.’

I remember that my mother begged Constantine to meet me, and Constantine said no. 'My sons and I want nothing to do with me, my mother, Vallenheim, or any of our people!’”

My mother told me, 'This is exactly why Queen Eleanor wanted me kept away from Cordonia.’"

Lena’s eyes 'welled with tears that are equal parts anger and sadness.'

“In that moment, I knew everything my mother had said about my father and brothers was true.”

“Sometimes memories can be the worst form of torture.”

Olivia stood up and paced the floor. Stopping directly in front of Lena,

“’Liam didn’t even know about you. Your brother is a better man than your father was.’”

“’I always resented Leo and Liam for having the life I could’ve had in Cordonia. I’ll even admit to envying Liam’s throne.’”

“’He’s a lot more than you were told. You might even like him if you gave him half a chance.’”

Lena’s features hardened, “’I think that ship sailed a while ago.’”

Dr Rameriz’s office, Cordonia

Looking at her reflection in the changing room, Riley placed her hands on her tummy. Her belly had grown so quickly this time around. Her morning sickness was now gone, and she felt more energized.

Slipping on the hospital gowni and robe, she opened the door to be greeted by the nurse.

“Your majesty”, the nurse curtsied and opened the door to the examination room.

Liam quickly stood offering his wife his hand.

“Are you ready for this, my love?”

“Oh Yes, Liam! Let’s do this!

Chuckling, he helped Riley get comfortable on the exam table, as the nurse placed a heated thermal blanket over top. Grasping his hand, she laid back and relaxed against the pillow.

Dr. Ramirez greeted the monarchs with a warm smile.

“Okay, today we are going to find out which sexes these little ones are.”

“Most definitely,” Liam smiled, squeezing Riley’s hand as she also smiled.

The doctor placed the doppler wand and the sound of heartbeats immediately could be heard.

“I will never tire from hearing those sounds.” Liam watched the monitor as the babies appeared.

Riley let out a breath and started to tear, squeezing Liam’s hand even more.

“So, what do you think, love?” Liam asked.

Riley grinned, “It’s a boy.”

The doctor nodded, “incredibly good instincts. Your majesties, you have a son.”

Liam beamed with joy and kissed his wife.

“...and baby number two?”

“A boy,” Riley answered.

The doctor shook her head smiling.

‘Your wife’s instincts are quite correct. Your children are both boys.”

Liam let out a breath.

Riley, now crying, was overcome with emotion.

“Riley, love,” Liam whispered, raising her hand, and softly kissed her palm.

“Yeah?”

“You did it again.”

Riley looked up at Liam with a question in her eyes.

Caressing her swollen tummy, “You made another dream come true for me. I love you so, so much.”

Riley, full of emotion, answered back, “as do I.”

Wrapping his arms around her, he kissed her lips and said, “let’s go home.”

Liam and Riley walked slowly out of the hospital, holding hands, both smiling as they approached the waiting SUV.

“We should spend the weekend in Valtoria.’ Liam smiled.

“I would love that, and I know that Ellie will be ecstatic to go to the festival in town.”

Liam grinned as he followed Riley into the SUV.

Not mentioning that he and Ellie have a special Mother’s Day celebration planned at the estate already for her.

🤎🤎🤎🤎🧸🧸🧸🧸🧸🤎🤎🤎🤎

Thank you for reading!

⚜️Please DM me if you would like to be added or removed from the tags⚜️

@ao719 @txemrn @queenmiarys @sfb123 @twinkleallnight @alj4890 @differenttyphoonwerewolf @harleybeaumont @busywoman @karahalloway @kingliam2019 @sfb123 @imjusthereforliam @lovingchoices14 @kyra75 @tinkie1973 @emkay512 @malblk21 @jared2612 @thesvnsins @irisk12 @walkerdrakewalker

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alj4890 · 2 years

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All Through the Night

A Choices The Royal Romance Dark AU

A/N Sorry! I know this took forever to come about. With new family emergencies, helping my aunt move to another state, and even more unexpected road trips, I have gotten so behind on posts. Everytime I think I can get back to normal, something happens, LOL. SO, we will just go with Picking up directly with the events of our last chapter. And yes, there is another character death in this chapter. *WARNING* VIOLENT DEATH.*

@iaminlovewithtrr @gkittylove99 @krsnlove @kingliam2019 @texaskitten30 @yourmajesty09 @mom2000aggie @ofpixelsandscribbles @twinkleallnight @lodberg @amandablink @neotericthemis @mm2305 @sfb123 @tessa-liam @busywoman @nestledonthaveone @angelasscribbles @thesvnsins

Masterlist

Chapter 12

Ramsford...

Maxwell stumbled through the darkening woods. Blood dripped from his hands. His shirt and pants were ripped in places. His breath was ragged as he rushed towards the unknown.

He only knew he had to save the person who had screamed.

I'm coming, his mind cried out. Hold on just a little longer.

He broke through the brush. His eyes scanned the opening. A denial ripped through his parted lips.

The body on the ground was one he recognized.

At least, he recognized what was left.

"Drake?" He whispered. "Drake? No."

He withdrew a dagger Olivia had given him earlier as he stepped closer to the still form.

Swallowing nervously, he scanned the shadowed areas for any sign of glowing eyes or movement of any kind.

Once he was close enough, he dropped down to one knee. His lips parted. His eyes briefly closed over what had been done to The Dark Prince's best friend.

It was too much.

Stepping back, he took deep breaths to calm down. He had seen these before, but to actually know the person...

Know you had to be the one to give the news to those you cared about...

He didn't believe he had it in him.

Sherry.

Savannah.

Even Liam.

He forced himself to study the crime scene. He couldn't stop the winces over the blood and brain matter scattered about. Drake's crushed face. The missing eyeball. The nearly decapitated head.

Maxwell easily found the weapon. The crude club held bits of Drake's skin, hair, and blood.

Something about this was wrong. The trolls weren't ones to leave a club behind. They were also known to drag their kills home as a trophy of sorts. And the footprints.

They are human size. Nearly as big as my own.

The killer wore boots. Trolls never wore manmade shoes. They preferred to use leather slippers, sewn by members of their tribes.

Maxwell nearly jumped out of his skin when his phone vibrated in his pocket.

"Sherry?" His voice cracked.

"Max." She sobbed his name. "It's Liam. He said...it can't be true! Drake can't be dead!"

Maxwell's head dropped forward. He couldn't find the words to tell her.

"Honey, I need you to stay inside Ramsford. Make certain you keep everyone inside."

"No." She began to cry harder. "Where are you? Are you in danger?"

"I don't think I am." He swallowed. "Could you, could you give the phone to Olivia?"

"Max." Sherry pleaded. "Please come home. I need you."

"I'll be there soon." He promised. "How's Savannah? She hasn't felt anything has she?"

"No." Sherry sniffed. "Liam felt it all." Another sob broke through. "Do you think it's true?"

Maxwell turned to look at Drake once more.

"It's true, Sherry." He said softly.

Her breath hitched.

"Sherry? Honey, are you there--"

"I'm coming." She ended the call.

Maxwell cursed. He knew there was no stopping her. He searched through his contacts.

"We're on our way." Olivia answered in lieu of greeting. "Stay there."

"No!" Maxwell replied bitterly. "It happened in an area that I can't easily protect you and Sherry."

"Then it's a good thing that Rashad is coming too." Olivia snapped then ended the call.

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

Sherry turned away from the sight. She wished she hadn't seen what had been done to one of her dearest friends. It was horrible. No one should have to die in such a horrific manner, much less someone she loved.

Rashad gently pulled her into his arms. His eyes were filled with unshed tears as he watched Olivia and Maxwell examine the body with the use of flashlights.

"I don't know how we will tell Liam." Olivia grimaced.

"You don't have to."

The four whipped around.

Liam, incredibly pale, stepped into the clearing.

"You shouldn't have come!" Olivia got to her feet, doing her best to block the image of Drake's body.

Liam gently pushed her to the side so he could take a look at what had been done to his best friend.

The others remained quiet, anxiously watching him. They didn't know how to comfort him. They didn't have the words to--

A roar burst from Liam at the sight. In the blink of an eye, he had an eighty-five foot Ramsford oak tree ripped from the ground and thrown deep into the forest. Three more followed before he registered the hand gripping his arm.

Olivia carefully shook him.

He met her concerned gaze, his rage quickly turning once more to sorrow.

"We'll find whoever did this." She vowed. "We will have our revenge."

Liam nodded, gripping her hand in his.

He prayed that he would be the one to find and destroy the person responsible.

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

Bertrand looked up when he heard Maxwell return with the others. Hushed voices and sniffs echoed along the marble tiled hallway. He glanced down at his wife, fitfully asleep on the sofa, then eased out of the duchy's informal den.

Once the door was shut, Bertrand turned to face the group. He fell to his knees when he saw the Dark Prince.

Curses escaped Maxwell's lips as he dashed over to his brother's side.

"I'm...fine!" Bertrand managed to say.

He slowly got to his feet, apologizing to everyone.

He then forced himself to look at the one whom he once believed was his greatest enemy.

Liam stared back. His head tilted somewhat as if in curious confusion.

Maxwell looked back and forth between the two, his worry notching higher and higher.

"Bertrand?" Maxwell began hesitantly, "this is, um, a relative of Sherry's."

"He knows who I am." Liam said after probing Bertrand's thoughts again.

The Dark Prince had been prepared to leave the moment the duke saw him, but then he heard his thoughts pleading with him to give him a moment to deal with the recognition. Sensing no ill will from the former monster hunter, Liam did as he wished.

Maxwell paled. He couldn't deal with his brother suffering again, not on top of everything else going on.

Bertrand's breathing became easier. He finally met his brother's fearful gaze. "I remember everything."

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

A few hours later the group was still trying to piece together the recent murders and if they connected at all.

"We have no common enemies!" Olivia snapped for the fourth time. "The only one who was tied to us both was Regina."

Liam ran his hands through his hair as he listened to arguments both for and against the murders being aimed at them.

"These are murders of people who hold both power and affection in your lives." Bertrand argued. "Regina and Lucretia were family for you. And Drake..."

Liam dropped his head in his hands. He still couldn't believe this was happening. How could he have found joy in discovering his mate to only end up planning a funeral for his best friend?

"Why would a monster attack, let alone kill, the Dark Prince's right hand?" Maxwell paced about the room.

"Have you angered someone in your kingdom?" Olivia asked. "Slighted one of the tribes of trolls?"

Liam shook his head. "No. And neither did Father." He looked up. "Our kingdom has been peaceful for years."

Silence fell once more as everyone tried to see who or what could be doing these heinous killings.

Then Savannah's cries reached them.

Bertrand rushed out of the room to comfort her. They could hear his soft words of love and sorrow followed by a door clicking shut.

The others slumped down in their chairs, unable to think of how to move forward from this.

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

A few weeks later...

Madeleine didn't want to think it. She shouldn't think it possible, yet the signs were becoming more and more apparent. She should have seen it all before, but love blinded her to so many of his faults.

How had she missed this?

She continued her study of the Lost Book of Aurelia. Though she had hoped it would give her something to find Regina's killer, it instead gave her more insight to the side effects contained in the potion she'd given Leo.

She'd finally noticed a change in her Prince Charming.

His smile, once so warm, held a sinister edge. He found humor and great delight in the thought of someone or something suffering. He also began to go into great detail all that he would do to those who would stand in his way of reclaiming his rightful place upon the throne.

It frightened her. She was grateful that Regina made certain to teach her the ways of keeping anyone from reading her thoughts. The mental shield she had firmly in place kept Leo from ever knowing the shock and revulsion she was beginning to feel around him.

It also kept him from knowing the questions she had on his times away from her. The hours and days he was gone gave her opportunities to sit and study not only the book but also to ponder what he was doing.

When news reached her of the Dark Prince's friend's death, she wondered. Leo spoke so highly of the inhabitants of the Dark Kingdom. Were they truly so unhappy with their monarch that they were now attacking members of the Dark Inner Court?

Perhaps. Then again...she had seen Leo burning clothes one night.

Were those blood stains? Or was it merely shadows upon the light blue material?

She didn't know. All she knew was that her gut was urging her on to finding a way to fix this.

Though, she wasn't exactly sure what to fix nor how to do it.

The next to the last chapter of the Book of Aurelia made her pause. It had a complicated potion recipe followed by instructions on how to undo the very spell that had given Leo his powers. Madeleine, refusing to think of if she would have to do this, rushed to her storeroom to search for each ingredient.

She then removed an ancient dagger from a nearby display case. She could remember Regina explaining the significance of one their ancestors weilding such a weapon while using magic.

Can I do this to the man I love?

She didn't know. Maybe she wouldn't have to. Hopefully once he regained his lost throne, he would be the man she'd fallen in love with. He would prove her prediction right that their destinies were entwined and that Leo was going to do great things.

Madeleine had never been wrong before in her premonitions. Surely she would begin to see the good he would do.

But great doesn't necessarily mean good.

It could mean the amount or intensity of some action or attribute being above the norm.

"He could do great harm." She whispered to her empty chamber.

No, her heart screamed. That couldn't be it! I would never lose my heart to a monster!

She angrily wiped at the tears that came to her eyes, swiped up the book she was so certain was meant to help, and began the potion.

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

Time seemed to creep by for everyone. A sense of peace seemed to have come over both kingdoms, though those who had been the most affected by the events doubted it. Their nerves were notched high in anticipation of what would happen next.

They all believed that the horrors were not really over. Who or whatever was out there had to be lying in wait to strike again. The peace was almost worse than tripping over a body of someone they knew.

Maxwell refused to let Bertrand come with him at night to monitor the borders. Savannah was not doing well with Drake's death. She'd fallen into a deep depression, knowing her actions had led to her losing her brother forever. Bertrand already had his hands full with taking care of her.

Knowing that a dragon and a Nevarkis would be with him, helped Bertrand step back from his need to guard his younger brother.

Maxwell, though, was doing his best to get rid of having Sherry with him each evening and to keep Olivia from coming out every free chance she had.

Rashad and Liam attempted to help but were plagued with Hana and Riley refusing to be left behind.

Maxwell knew that having this many people grouped together would keep any danger from occurring. As comforting as that thought was, he also knew one other thing.

"We'll never figure out who or what is responsible." He told Olivia one night. "Not with all of us together."

The queen's eyes narrowed somewhat on those she had come to care for walking along the forest that hid the twisted paths up to the Blackspire Mountains.

Her eyes lifted to try to see Sherry in dragon form flying amongst the moonless night. The only thing visible were her silver eyes gleaming as she scanned the area. Her wings didn't make a sound as she glided near the tree tops.

"I need to do this alone." He argued once more.

Olivia had lost count over how many times they had this same discussion. She refused to be a passive queen. Sherry refused to leave her mate to possibly die. Rashad refused to leave his cousin to fight some unknown creature. Hana refused to let him face this without her. Liam refused because he wanted justice for them all and to protect those he loved. Naturally, Riley was just as determined as the rest to solve this mystery and not lose the man she'd fallen in love with.

Maxwell was left scowling over no one doing as he thought best.

"Where are you going?" Olivia asked when he turned and began walking away from the area they were currently monitoring.

"I'll be back." He grumbled, waving his hand in farewell.

Olivia felt a burst of wind nearly knock her down. She couldn't help but chuckle when she heard Maxwell's curse. Sherry had overheard him and rushed to where he had disappeared to. No doubt the dragon was back in human form and telling him off for leaving everyone else behind.

"I see we lost our air support." Liam teased as he joined her.

"So we did." Olivia muttered, checking the time.

"You need to go home." Liam told her. "I know you have duties to see to in the morning."

She snorted. Her morning as a queen of a non-mystical realm was to start in less than four hours.

"I'll be fine." She knew it would be a very long day. "This is more important than listening to pompous nobles complaining about everything they were given at birth."

Liam reached out and squeezed her hand. "The people of Cordonia have no idea what they have in you as a ruler."

She knew she must be more tired than she originally thought the moment tears formed in hearing that.

Patting her shoulder, he left her to rejoin Riley.

Taking a shuddering breath, Olivia turned to walk the familar path she'd guarded for years.

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

Fydelia, a few days later...

"Your grace!" Madeleine dipped into an automatic curtsey. "This is a surprise."

"Forgive me for coming unannounced." Bertrand began. "I'm at such a loss of what to do."

Madeleine asked him to sit.

"First off, I should inform you that I have all my memories back."

Her eyes widened. "What? How?"

He went through a brief explanation before rising and pacing the length of her drawing room.

"Do you need me to make you something to help deal with the horrors that still plague you?" She asked.

"No. I need your help with my wife."

Madeleine's brow smoothed with understanding. "Her grief must be severe."

"More than any I've ever seen." Bertrand explained. "She and Drake were finally able to have a relationship. Be around one another without hurting." He pinched the bridge of his nose as he thought of Savannah's sobbing for her brother every night. "Now she's left with nothing but heartache."

"Hmm." Madeleine's brow furrowed once more. "Forgive me if this sounds harsh, but she shouldn't have felt his death this deeply. The potion Regina and I concocted to break the blood magic should have for lack of a better term, dampened, any sense of love between them."

"I thought the same." Bertrand continued to pace. "But if anything, she feels even more for her brother than before."

Madeleine motioned for him to follow her into her chambers. She picked up the book that she'd studied along with Regina to find a way to help break the blood magic.

She scanned the carefully hand written lines of her ancestors.

Bertrand attempted to read over her shoulder but could make little sense of what was written.

"Oh." Madeleine sat down upon a stool. "I see."

"What?"

"We only broke the blood magic between Savannah and Drake." She explained.

"I know." He once again read where her finger had stopped. "And what does that have to do with her depression?"

"There was a new link to the blood magic formed when Savannah became pregnant." Madeleine continued.

Bertrand's eyes widened. "But she had none left to pass on."

"The spell only worked for her." Madeleine continued. "Any child born with a drop of Walker blood, it appears, will be tied to each other and to the Dark Prince and his family."

She gave him a moment to absorb this.

"So," he swallowed, "Savannah is feeling our unborn child's pain over Drake's death?"

"Yes." She reached out and placed her hand over his. "And, though I'm not certain, the child will need to be around the Dark Prince once he or she is born."

Bertrand sat down beside her. He shook his head as if in disbelief.

"What am I to do?" He whispered mostly to himself.

"Wait and see." She explained. "Your child might be able to live away from the Dark Kingdom. We won't know until they enter into the world."

He nodded, not truly wanting to accept this. "Is there anything you can give to help Savannah deal with this sadness?"

"Of course." She got up, relieved to be given a task she could readily succeed at. "It will take just an hour to prepare."

"Thank you." He murmured as she bustled about gathering ingredients.

"It is no trouble at all, your grace." She sent a smile over her shoulder toward him.

"Not just for this." He explained. "But for everything you and The Guardian did for me and my family."

Madeleine stilled. "Thank you, Lord Bertrand."

He chuckled. "As much as we have been through and as a creator of my temporary mind, don't you think we are past using honorifics?"

With a startled laugh, she nodded. "Of course."

"I've been lax in my duties to check on you since Regina left us." He added once a comfortable silence fell between them. "I must apologize for that."

"I understand." She mumbled, grounding petals of lavender in a small bowl.

"You are too kind." His lips turned up into a soft smile. "You remind me of her."

Madeleine looked up. "Regina?"

He nodded. "In many ways."

She blinked back tears. "I wish..." She shook her head and went back to the potion's ingredients. "I wish I was like her."

"You are." He waved around the room. "Look at all you have studied to try to help us."

Madeleine's hands trembeled. "Bertrand, may I...may I share something with you?"

"Of course you may."

Madeleine swallowed nervously. "Well, I have been helping--"

She jumped when the wood door to her storeroom bounced against the stone wall.

Leo had arrived.

His lips that she had once loved to kiss were twisted in an almost animalistic snarl. His bright blue eyes cut to her and then Bertrand.

The Duke got to his feet, moving his way over to protect the young witch.

"What is the meaning of this?" Leo snapped.

"I'm helping his grace." Madeleine quickly explained. "His wife--"

Leo moved within the blink of an eye. His fingers wrapped around Bertrand's neck then he lifted him off the floor.

"LEO!" Madeleine shouted. "No! Please, put--"

"You dare to come here and beg for her magic to help you!" Leo hissed, eyeing the desperate nobleman. "After years of hunting beings full of the substance."

"Leo, let him go!" Madeleine pleaded. "I owe the Beaumont's for --"

"You owe them nothing!" Leo flung Bertrand away.

Madeleine let out a cry when his body crashed through a glass cabinet. She moved to check to see if he was still alive, only to find herself pinned to a wall.

Leo's fingers curved around her delicate wrists, lifting them over her head.

"Now, my love," he leaned closer toward her, "just what did you think you were doing?"

Madeleine's heartbeat accelerated.

His sneer turned to an amused smirk.

"There is nothing to be scared of."

She swallowed. "I'm...I'm not scared."

"Lying, are we?" He taunted. "Cute, but unnecessary."

"Leo, please, let me check on Lord Beaumont."

"He lives." Leo bit out. "For the moment."

His fingers tightened around her wrists.

Madeleine strained against him as the pain brought tears go her eyes.

"You," he leaned down close so he could stare directly into her eyes, his tone dark and serious. "Will never tell me what to do again. Is that understood?"

Madeleine cried out when he squeezed to the point of almost breaking her bones.

"Yes!" She sobbed.

He let her go with a chuckle. "Good."

Straightening his sleeves, he turned toward where Bertrand lay.

"Now to clean this up."

"What are you going to do?" She asked.

"Kill him and get rid of his body." Leo explained.

"No!" Madeleine followed on his heels, reaching out to grasp his arm. "He isn't our enemy, he--"

Leo backhanded her, striking her face. Madeleine's head snapped back as she went flying across the room. Her body collided against the stone wall.

Leo paused as he realized what he had just done. He rushed over to see how badly hurt she was. Blood covered the wall where her head struck. Some dribbled from her lips. Her nose was broken completely smashed within her face. Her eyes were already showing signs of bruising.

Her breath though was what surprised him. It rattled in her chest. He knew she'd suffered some cracked ribs. He also suspected that one lung was punctured.

"Well, this didn't go as I had planned." He muttered to her unconscious form. "You weren't supposed to die. You were to be queen."

Leo got to his feet, dusting off his pants.

"But, I see there is little to be done for you." He smirked at what was about to happen. "Don't worry, little witch. I really didn't have much use for you anymore. I'll make certain though to kill Liam and Father in your honor."

He glanced back at the sight of Bertrand's unmoving body. Sensing little chance for the duke to recover from his injuries; he shrugged, stepped over Madeleine, and began whistling a jaunty tune as he left her home.

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

A few minutes later...

Bertrand groaned as he blinked. His head pounded. Glass shards covered his arms, hands, legs, and most of his back. His insides felt like they were on fire.

He tried to focus on a panicked sound coming from the other side of the room.

Somehow, he got to his knees and began to painstakingly crawl toward the shadowed form on the floor.

"Mad-" He coughed up blood. "Madeleine?"

Her bruised and blood shot eyes locked on him. Raising a trembling hand, she tried to speak.

Blood bubbles appeared on her lips.

Unable to get the words out, she touched her bloody lips then began to run her index finger on the wall.

Bertrand tried to clear his blurred vision as she fought to write out her words.

"Forgive me." He sank down beside her. "I can't..." He passed out from his concussion.

Madeleine struggled more and more to draw air into her body as she left a message for Maxwell.

Her body's trembles grew in strength. She could feel the heavy weight of eternal darkness begin to smother her as she tried to leave a way to help for those left behind.

Tears trickled down her cheeks when her hand dropped down upon the cold stone floor.

She wasn't ready to die. She didn't want her life to end with nothing to show for it. She didn't have the life she'd been dreaming of since first meeting Leo. Though he always spoke of them ruling both kingdoms of Cordonia, all she focused on was becoming his wife and mother to their children.

She wouldn't have that now. She wouldn't ever dream those precious dreams ever again.

She could feel her heart beat begin to slow. Each agonizing breath into her battered beyond repair body made the darkness seem almost appealing.

Madeleine closed her eyes and thought of the one person who truly loved her.

Her final thought as her heart beat for the last time was how happy she'd been in this room with Regina.

#choices trr #trr dark au #trr vampire au #the royal romance #vampire liam #trr maxwell #trr olivia #liam x riley #leo x madeleine #maxwell x sherry #hana x rashad #choices stories you play #play choices fanfic

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harleybeaumont · 2 years

Text

Unintentional

Chapter 13 - The Secret

Book: The Royal Romance AU

Pairings - Liam x Maxwell, Drake x Riley

Synopsis- Since childhood, Liam has held a terrible secret that even he doesn't know about. As the years go by, he suspects more and more that there is something wrong with him. Can he put his life together and find happiness?

Series Warnings- oh so many: language, drinking, violence, sexual assault, abuse, murder, homophobia, bullying, mentions of suicide.. Also there will be lemons in some chapters.

Word count- 2,860

18+

Catch up here.

Chapter 13 - The Secret

Liam felt like the entire room was spinning as he sat on the floor of the pantry beside his mother. Was he even awake right now? His mother had her face buried in her arms, knees to her chest, sobbing loudly again.

Did his mother have the same issue he did? This was insane. Liam had so many questions, but this was not the place to ask them.

Eleanor looked up at him again. “Liam..” She sniffled. “I need to explain.”

“Not now.” He spoke softly as the door to the pantry creaked open. Leo was crying and knelt down next to the two of them.

“I’m so sorry, mom.” Leo hugged her tightly and she sobbed even harder. “The officers have done a thorough sweep through the palace and they feel that it’s safe for us to leave the kitchen. They um.. Don't want you to go back into your and dad’s suite but they said you can use one of the spare rooms.” Leo rubbed her back as her sobs slightly relented. “Why don’t you go upstairs and take a bath or something to help you relax?”

Eleanor stared at the floor for a moment then nodded slightly.

“I’ll walk with her.” Liam volunteered. The boys helped their mother stand and Eleanor leaned against Liam as she walked. Liam walked past Max, Drake, and Riley who all looked horrified at the confirmation of Constantine's death. Liam looked away from them quickly.

The officers bowed their heads respectfully as Eleanor and Liam walked past them. Liam escorted his mother upstairs into one of the spare rooms close to his. As soon as the door closed behind them Eleanor slumped to the floor. Liam checked to make sure no one was inside before helping her over to the couch. He had a million questions but wasn’t sure where to begin.

“Liam.. I-” Eleanor choked up. “I’ve done some terrible things.”

He looked at the floor, waiting for her to continue.

“I have something called.. homicidal somnambulism.” Her voice came out as a hoarse whisper. It was the most broken he had ever heard her sound. “I first discovered it when I was a teenager. I.. I have been getting therapy for it ever since.. Even hypnotism. I know you have no idea what I’m even talking about and it sounds totally mental-”

Liam’s heart broke for her. He knew that pain all too well. “Mother.. I have it too.”

Eleanor threw her hands over her mouth. “No,” She whispered.

Liam simply nodded, looking down at the floor.

“Oh my god.. my poor baby. I’m so sorry!” Eleanor hugged him tightly, sobbing against him and he couldn’t help the tears that fell from his own eyes. “This is all my fault.”

Liam pulled back, wiping his tears. “No it’s not.”

“Oh sweet Liam.. how did you find out?”

“You sure you want to hear about it? It’s.. horrible.”

Eleanor nodded. “Please.”

Liam told her about every time he had woken up in a different place and discovered the next day that someone was dead. Eleanor was holding her hand over her mouth in horror. “Liam.. your tutor from when you were young.. God, I never knew he hit you.”

“That’s what you're upset about? Not the fact that I killed him?!”

“Darling, this isn’t something that comes with a manual. Can’t I be upset about all of it?”

“Sorry.” His heart sank. He was so ashamed and confused and hurt all at the same time.

“Shit.” Eleanor said with her head in her hands. Liam didn’t think he had ever heard her swear before. “This is so messed up. I’m so sorry you have been dealing with this for so long! And you’ve been suffering alone the whole time.” She sighed. “I told my parents the first time it happened to me.”

“I guess I should have.” Liam still couldn’t look her in the eyes.

“No. Like I said this isn’t something that comes with a manual. And a lot of good it did me. I ended up doing it two more times anyway.” She sighed as she blotted her eyes with a tissue. “I just hate so much that you’ve had to deal with this pain.”

“I hate that you have too, mother.” Liam couldn’t believe that his mom had killed three people that she knew of. “So.. either one of us could have killed dad.”

“God.” She breathed out slowly as she stared at the wall. After a moment, her face hardened with resolve. “No. You know what? Neither of us did.”

Liam looked up at her and she gave him a stern look. “Neither of us did this, Liam. There’s not any proof. None at all.”

“That we know of!” Liam interjected.

“Liam.. I am the Queen. And I guarantee that there is no proof. No matter what lengths I have to go to.. There will be no proof, no evidence against you.”

Liam was taken aback. He had never seen his mother have so much conviction and it was a little intimidating. She took his hands and looked into his eyes.

“Repeat after me, darling. I am innocent.”

Liam gave her a sad look, and she squeezed his hands. “Ok..” He sighed. “I am innocent.”

“That’s right. I am going to protect my baby at all costs.”

Liam nodded, feeling like a small child again needing his mother to save him. But he supposed he never stopped needing his mother.

“I love you.”

“I love you too, Liam. So much.” She wiped the remaining tears from his cheeks.

“Did father know that you have this?” Liam asked.

“No. He knew I sleepwalked occasionally. I need to try that handcuffing thing that you do. I don't know if hypnotism is working anymore.”

Liam let out a slight laugh. “What would people say if they knew both of us went to sleep at night handcuffed to our beds?”

Eleanor laughed. “That we must be werewolves?”

The two of them laughed together, finally breaking some of the tension.

Eleanor took a deep breath. “Now. We need to put on our best faces and handle this situation like the perfect Queen and Prince that we are.”

“Are you going to tell Leo?”

“Lord no.” She shook her head. “I don't want to burden him with this. I only told you because you’re so intuitive. Leo is a sweetheart, but the boy is a bit..”

“Self-centered?” Liam laughed.

Eleanor swatted his arm, chuckling. “Liam! I was going to say.. he’s a free spirit. He doesn’t get burdened the way we do.”

“Lucky him.”

Eleanor wrapped her arm around Liam, pulling him close. “We’re going to get through this, love.”

Liam nodded, rubbing his hands down his face. Eleanor stood up, pulling him up with her. “Now go on, darling. Let me take a bath and I will see you for dinner tonight.”

“Right.” Liam made his way out of her room and into his. He dropped down onto his bed with a sigh. This was a freaking nightmare, but in a sense his mother was right. They didn’t know for sure that they were the ones who killed Constantine. And what was his mother going to do to ensure it stayed that way? He knew that as the Queen she certainly had connections, but this was major. Surely the news that the King of Cordonia was dead had spread across the globe by now.. Not just dead, murdered. He didn’t think they had cameras set up around the inside of the palace. At least he hoped not. Liam heard his bedroom door creak open, but remained face down on the bed. He could already tell it was Maxwell just by the sound of his steps. He still hadn’t decided whether or not to tell Max about his mother’s confession.

“The police sent Drake and Riley home.” Max put his hand on Liam’s back. “You holding up ok, babe?”

Liam chuckled. “Not really.”

“I understand.” Max lay next to Liam. “The police just swabbed our hands and clothes for gunpowder residue. I guess that means he was shot?”

“Shit.” Liam looked at Max. “They’ll probably be coming in here next.”

“Well.. if you did it, maybe the shower will have washed it off?”

“I don't know.” Liam shook his head.

Max pulled him up. “Get in there and wash your fucking hands again. Like a hundred more times.”

“This is insane. I can’t live like this.”

“No. No, no, and no. We’re not going down that road again.” Max pushed him into the bathroom and turned on the water. “Now put your hands in here and scrub.”

A knock at the door grabbed their attention and Max left Liam in the bathroom while he answered it. Liam scrubbed his hands and arms feverishly. His mind flooded with worry for his mother. But she was taking a bath; surely she wouldn’t have any gunshot residue on her after a bath.

Max peeked into the bathroom, “No worries. It was just the staff bringing up some dinner.” Max watched Liam in concern. “Jesus, leave some skin on your hands!”

“Oh.” Liam was so distracted by his thoughts, he didn’t realize he was scrubbing that hard. He dried his reddened hands and the two sat at the small table in Liam’s suite.

“I’m not hungry.” Liam looked down at his plate with a frown.

“I know. Me neither. But we both need to eat something.”

Liam looked up at Max who was picking at his dinner sadly, and his heart broke. This wasn’t how life was supposed to be. Maxwell deserved to be happy, and Liam was so screwed up, he didn’t know if he would ever be able to give him the happiness he deserved. “Max. Can I ask you something?”

“Of course.”

“I want you to give me a legit answer, ok? Don’t try to spare my feelings. Just.. be honest no matter what.”

Maxwell raised an eyebrow and put his fork down. “Ok..”

Liam took a deep breath. “Honestly, Maxwell. Do you really want to do this for the rest of your life? I know you care about me, but this is a shitty way for anyone to live. Always worrying. Always having to handcuff your psychotic boyfriend to the bed every time he falls asleep. I’ve accepted it because I have to.. But you don’t have to.” Liam saw the sadness in Maxwell’s eyes as he continued. “I’m being sincere with you now Max. I love you, and I always will. But this is demanding way too much from you. This is.. not the life you deserve.” Liam looked down at his plate trying not to show the sadness he was feeling. “I’m trying to give you an out.”

Maxwell stood and walked swiftly into the bathroom, locking the door behind him.

Liam felt his heart hit the floor. He sincerely wanted to give Maxwell the chance to leave. He loved him enough to let him go. But it still hurt like hell to see him walk away without a word. Liam couldn’t even begin to imagine what Max was thinking.

Liam trudged over to the bed and dropped down onto it heavily. He didn’t have the energy to move. His eyes were growing heavy and he figured he should at least cuff one hand to the bed in case he fell asleep. He reached into the drawer, but stopped short when he remembered. Dammit the cops took my handcuffs! He remembered he still had those novelty ones in his wardrobe and apparently the cops hadn’t taken them. He put one on his wrist and attached it to the bed frame. Then he closed his eyes.

The next thing he knew, he was being shaken awake. “Liam, are you ok?” Max was whispering softly in his ear.

“Huh?” He pulled his arms down, but thankfully the one he cuffed was still attached to the bed.

“You were crying in your sleep.” Max said sadly.

“What time is it?” Liam looked around. The room was mostly dark, save for a lamp by the door.

“It’s one a.m. I took some time and thought about what you said.” Maxwell hesitated. “You were right.”

Liam felt his heart shatter, but held it together for Maxwell. “It’s ok. I told you I’m ok with whatever you choose. I meant it.”

“Liam..” Max whispered, clearly on the verge of tears.

“I’ll be ok. I promise. And you’ll get to live the life you deserve. I only want you to be happy-”

“Will you shut up for a minute?” Max was still speaking softly, but Liam was taken aback. “Stop being so damn noble all the time.”

“Um, sorry?”

“Hush.” Max was facing him and looked into his eyes. “I said you were right. I didn’t say about what.”

Liam wanted to speak, but kept his mouth shut as Maxwell continued. “You were right. It is a lot to deal with. And it is a shitty way to live. But it’s shitty for you, not me. I can't imagine what’s going on in your head all the time, always thinking you're a burden. I was so fucking angry when you said all that tonight. But.. the more I thought about it, the more I understood why you said it. You still have no idea how deep my love for you is. You still think you’re going to do or say something to run me off.”

Liam reached out to touch him, but he was still cuffed.

Max scoffed, “Where are the damn keys? I need to hug you.”

Liam chuckled, his heart beginning to mend back together as he realized Maxwell wasn’t leaving him. He reached into the drawer. “Here.”

Liam rubbed his wrist once Max uncuffed him. “Now I can continue.” Liam and Max were sitting across from each other on the bed and Maxwell took his hands in his own.

“Liam, I.. I want.. Oh shit.” He shook his head and smiled, but he was clearly tearing up.

“Are you ok? Your hands are shaking..”

“Liam, I.. don't want to handcuff my psychotic boyfriend to the bed every night. I want to handcuff my psychotic husband to the bed every night.”

Liam’s heart was going a mile a minute. A soft breath escaped him, his lips still parted in shock.

“If you don’t know what I meant by that.. It means I want to marry you, Liam.”

Liam’s heart was ready to burst and his stomach was full to the brim with butterflies. He still was speechless. Maxwell wants to marry me.

Maxwell looked at him nervously. “Ok, I know I told you to shut up, but it would be great if you would say something.”

Liam choked out a sob and threw his arms around Max. “Oh my god! Are you serious?”

“Yes!” Max squeezed him tightly. “I want to marry you, Liam. I’m never going to leave you, no matter how hard you try to push me away.”

“I want that too. More than anything.. I just didn’t want to burden you.” Liam closed his eyes as he and Max held each other. Both had tears streaming down their cheeks. When Liam pulled back he couldn't stop smiling. “God, I love you.”

“I love you too.” Max giggled and leapt forward, tackling Liam onto his back and kissing him hard. He took Liam’s face in his hands as he deepened the kiss, slipping his tongue inside his boyfriend's mouth. He pulled back a bit, resting his forehead against Liams. “I seem to have a bad habit of telling you important things at inopportune times, don't I?”

Liam chuckled, “Never. It’s perfect, just like you.”

“Perfect? I don’t think anyone has ever used that word to describe me, but I’ll take it!”

Liam pecked his lips. “I’m certain I’ve said that you’re perfect before. And if I haven’t, then shame on me.”

Max laughed and brought his lips down to Liam’s once more. Maxwell was still laying on top of Liam and sighed contentedly as he rested his head against his chest. Liam brought his arm around Maxwell’s back holding him tightly.

“Wow.” Liam spoke softly as he rubbed Maxwell’s back. “This started out as the worst day ever, and ended up as the best.”

Max laughed. “You really want to marry me, Liam?”

“Definitely.. I’ve thought about it a lot honestly. You sure you want to marry me? Even though I’m psychotic?” Liam chuckled.

“For sure! I like my men with deep underlying trauma. It’s sexy.. Like, this could be the origin of your superhero story.” The two of them cracked up together.

Liam ran his fingers through Maxwell’s soft, messy hair. “Now I just have to find some super romantic way to propose to you and you have to act surprised.”

“You don't have to propose! You already know I want to-”

“Shh! Just let me do this!” Liam laughed. “When I was younger, I always imagined proposing to someone one day. And it’s going to be fucking spectacular.”

Max placed a kiss to Liam’s chest. “Then I can’t wait.”

#unintentional #the royal romance #trr fanfic #the royal romance fanfic #maxwell beaumont #liam rys #liam x maxwell #drake walker #leo rys #drake x riley

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txemrn · 1 year

Text

Déjà Vu

Chapter 1

Series Summary: After an unforgettable night with a stranger, Princess Eleanor finds herself caught in a secret love triangle between a noble and a commoner.

Chapter Summary: Eleanor prepares for a night out with her best friends despite her mother's wishes for her to attend a special family dinner.

Pairing(s): Liam x Riley (in discussion); more to be revealed

Word Count: ~2740

Warning: 🔞 Mature Audiences Only 🔞 this chapter references drinking; brief language

A/N: Welcome to my Crack Fic! No one asked for this... at least no one of sound mind, and if you're a big fan of TRR, you might actually hate this (no, I'm not killing Liam!). When I pitched this idea (half-joking, half-serious) to some buddies after reading the book Birthday Girl by Penelope Douglas, the eager encouragement I normally receive was met with (what's that TikTok trend with that T Swift song?) "horrified looks from everyone in the room". But... I could not get this idea out of my head. So, here we are! I have a general idea of where this story is going... but I'm actually leaving myself open to possibilities. No matter how the road twists and turns, I would be honored if you join me!

A/N 2: This story takes place approximately 2 decades after TRR/TRH. I have made some canonical changes (they will be mentioned). Characters and some plots belong to our friends at Pixelberry! Huge thank you to @charlotteg234 for looking over this for me (and laughing like a maniac with me)! This was not Beta'd; please excuse my errors.

~🖤~

Eleanor

Tapping my newly manicured nails against the glass topper to my vanity, my gaze nervously shifts back and forth between my choices for the evening. I don’t know why this is so hard–or why it’s taking me this long to decide–but somehow, here I am in quite the conundrum.

Perversion or Temptress: that’s it. But, when it came to darkening the outer-corner of my eyelid, picking the right hue of eyeshadow matters. Yes, yes, they’re both a deep black; one is a dark matte that has the potential to smudge all over my porcelain face, but the other one, while dark, has little flecks of silver.

Biting my lip, I look at myself in the mirror before looking back at the YouTube tutorial I was following. I feel silly making such a big deal over the color; afterall, this is supposed to be fun. Normally, for me, it is. I’m actually really good at doing my own make-up, thanks to the internet and to my mother who convinced my father when I was fourteen that mascara and lipstick would not lead me down the path of destruction and eternal damnation.

Well, I guess I should clarify: I do a great job on my make-up, my everyday natural, diplomatically poised look. Think lots of pinks and taupes. It’s the latest trend for crown princesses; I should know.

But tonight, I wouldn’t be Princess Eleanor. I didn’t want to be Princess Eleanor.

Dangit, that came out wrong. I don’t mean to sound like some stereotypical spoiled brat that is born into money and power, who craves freedom from her poor little privileged life. I am content–actually, very grateful for the life I have been born into. I have been given incredible opportunities and experiences because of it. But, I’m not naive; I know I have a high-calling, one filled with much responsibility and dedication. Someday I will be queen of Cordonia.

Let’s not get ahead of ourselves...

Tonight, I’m just Nora–at least that’s what my friends call me, and since I’m turning twenty this coming Tuesday, they wanted to take me out over the weekend. This weekend. See? Responsible. But, there is just one problem…

There’s a sudden knock on my door, my mother instantly inviting herself in. “Dinner’s in thirty Eleanor–” she freezes as her eyes grow wide. “Y–you’re make-up… don’t you think it’s a bit on the, um… heavy-side?”

“Mom,” I singsong, "it's supposed to be. This is how all the celebrities and models wear their make-up when they hit the town."

"Hit the town?" My mother gave me that eyebrow, the one that gives away her true unspoken feelings. "You're going out tonight?"

"Mhmm. To dinner." I settle on Urban Decay's Perversion, and start tapping the color against my eyelid. "I told you and Daddy that Josie and Beth were taking me out–"

"Eleanor," my mom shot her first warning signal with her tone. "We discussed that tonight wasn't a good night. And if you ladies could do things tomorrow–"

"It's just a family dinner," I continue to work on my look. "Daddy said it was fine–"

"But you know how important this dinner is. We have a special guest."

Yes, yes. We know.

His name is Drake Walker, and he is–well, was, my parent's best friend back in the day before I was born. He actually grew up with my dad, Drake's father serving as my Grandpa Rys's royal guard when he was king of Cordonia.

But, then there was a falling out of some sort…well, that's according to my Uncle Leo. He means well, but I'm fairly certain the truth has been stretched.

Anyway, I'm not too clear on what happened, but shortly after my parents got married, Drake moved back to his home in America to start a normal life. He never settled down with a wife, but he kept busy with his construction company.

That is until four months ago when he discovered his business partner had been siphoning company funds into off-shore accounts. Now he spends his days laid up on the couch with a fifth of whiskey. And broke as a joke.

Drake's brother-in-law Bertrand Beaumont, the Duke of Ramsford, serves on the royal council with my parents, and after a late meeting one night, he shared the truth about their former best friend.

Daddy and his bleeding heart… sure, he can see fiery red from time to time and his temper can bubble over, but my father is known for his grace, forgiveness, and charity towards others. He contacted his old friend… which then led to an invitation back to Cordonia.

'It's only for a little while, until he gets back on his feet,' Daddy assured my mom. 'We'll give him tasks around the palace until then.'

Mom called it a 'midlife crisis'. I don't think I was supposed to hear the latter part.

I began to draw on my eyeliner as my mother crossed her arms, glowering at me. Feeling the disappointment radiate from her glare, I stop, shrugging my shoulders. "What?"

"Part of being royal is posing as a unified front as a family."

"You act like this is some official business or a press event–"

"Our closest friends are going to be here, Elle, and–" she stops, her eyes playfully smoldering as her voice becomes angelically romantic. "--I think even Bartie is coming."

"Mom!" I chuckle, my cheeks pinking in embarrassment from her inflection. "It's not like that with him."

Oh, but it was…

Bartie Beaumont is one of my closest friends. He's a few years older than me and well… I really enjoy spending time with him. He's incredibly kind and charming in and out of social situations. He's quite handsome with his dark, well-kept hair and deep chestnut eyes. And smart–goodness, he's smart. He can keep up with my father, round-for-round in debating politics and foreign policies.

He's always been fiercely protective of me, even when I was a little girl. But he was always just Bartie, my honorary older brother… that is until he asked me to dance at a charity gala when I was sixteen. I had never been asked to dance by a boy before; I was normally paired with other noble children, usually from the suggestion made by their mothers. But this? It was different… and special. Someone chose to dance with me because they wanted to. And until that moment, I never understood what it meant to let a partner 'lead you', and well… I digress. It was nice. Bartie… he's just nice.

"But seriously, Mom," I continue, "the girls have already set everything up for tonight, and I'm the guest of honor for that. I can't just stand them up."

My mom gives me a long sigh. She's having that internal argument with herself where she compares her younger years as a commoner versus her younger years as a royal. "I guess I was hoping you'd get to meet your Uncle Drake tonight–"

I couldn't control my giggles. Growing up, Mom and Dad always referred to their close friends as 'Aunt' or 'Uncle', like my Uncle Max and Aunt Livvy. But they were also active members in my life that I saw frequently. 'Uncle Drake'? I don't even know the guy.

"Isn't he living on our couch for a while? I'm sure I'll meet him at breakfast sometime."

My mom pursed her lips. I think she realizes she has no other reasons to keep me home. Thank goodness.

"Is Lars going with you, or is one of the other guards?"

"Mom," I whine.

"Eleanor, you know the rules–"

"But I just want to be a normal twenty-year-old for the night–"

"Almost twenty-year-old," she smirks, stepping forward to fidget with my wavy, honey-brunette hair. "It's just not safe, baby. People know who you are–good people… and bad people. Even under all of this make-up, people will still recognize you."

I give a little huff, but she was right. I once dyed my hair purple and wore thick-rimmed frames to a show for a local punk band, and I'm pretty sure I posed for more photos with fans than the musicians.

"Fine, I'll ask Lars," I give my mother a half smile. "Anything else, your majesty?"

"One more thing," she twirls me around to face my reflection in the mirror. I'm keeping it pretty casual tonight with a white shirt and black ripped skinny jeans. I am pairing my black moto jacket with some gold accessories and my red Jimmy Choo pumps. Surely the woman doesn't think I'm showing off too much skin.

Suddenly, she raises my shirt in the back and unclips my white bra.

"Mom!"

"Eleanor," she snickers, shaking her head at me. "We've been over and over this ever since you got boobs: white shirt, nude undergarments."

I whip off my bra, quickly grabbing a skin-tone t-shirt bra. "No one's going to be looking."

"Someone is always looking."

After hooking my bra and smoothing out my tee, Mom gave me an approving nod. And then she put her arms around me, pulling me into a hug. "Have a good time tonight. I love you, my twenty-year-old baby."

"Almost twenty-year-old baby." We both fall into titters as we squeeze each other closer. "I love you too, Mommy."

------

I text my bodyguard Lars to let him know about the evening, and as expected, he'll be ready with the car in ten minutes.

Poor guy was ball-and-chained to me when I got my driver's license. I'm sure when he signed up for the guard, he pictured himself traveling around the world, looking like a badass with my dad. Instead, he got me, and the only traveling he normally does is to gather my morning espresso and cronut. He's made more trips to Sephora than any man should ever make in his lifetime–even more than my Uncle Max.

He's a good guy… if you like the serious, never-crack-a-smile type. He looks like John Cena with a permanent angry expression, complete with a single bulging vein in the center of his forehead. He's a man of few words despite my attempts to make him laugh, but underneath all the brawn and muscle, he has a big heart. He has literally given me his coat so that I wouldn't have to walk through a puddle of half-melted snow. And to think, he has sworn to give so much more for my own life…

My phone abruptly pings. Beth.

>>> "Hey, bday bish! R U ready for the nite of ur life?"

I chuckle under my breath after reading the text. Night of my life… She always has a flare for the dramatics, but then again Beth has always been the life of the party. She has more personality in her pinkie finger than all of the citizens of Cordonia combined. Her mother is the Countess of Fydelia, and ever since Beth's father left, she's been indisposed. Mom says that's a more tactful way of saying, 'alcoholic'.

Beth walks more on the wild side, a real risk-taker. When I get in trouble, chances are she is somehow involved, like the time I got caught with a bottle of Smirnoff Ice at the Baron's Ball. Ugh, talk about the hangover from hell… and that wasn't even my punishment…

But she, along with Josie, are my ride-or-die. My BFFs. My "You jump, I jump, right?". We've grown up together, became women together, and nothing was about to ruin that bond.

I fire a text back to Beth.

>>> "Can't wait! My car will be ready in a few. What restaurant are we meeting at?"

My phone instantly dings, catching me off guard in my attempts to glide on some lipstick. That was fast. I tap on the message.

>>> "We're coming 4 u! Be ready!"

My face falls. I know it's probably hard to believe, but my friends often forget that I'm a princess. Like, the legit crown princess of Cordonia, and because of that, I need a bodyguard present during all activities outside of the palace that have not otherwise been secured by the royal guard. As you can imagine, that rule made me so popular in grade school when my parents tried giving me a 'normal life'.

In retrospect, I'm quite grateful for the security through the years, especially when I hear about plots made by secret coups against my dad. But still, it would be nice to get my own darn breakfast. And I'm sure Lars would love to sleep in for once.

I text back.

>>> "And Lars"

>>> "R U kidding me? Ur shadow has 2 come?"

I let out a defeated exhale. She knows this. My phone suddenly rings, her picture lighting up the screen. "Hey–"

"Are you fucking kidding me?" She sounds irritated, as if I did this maliciously to her.

"Beth, you know my parents won't allow me out without him or any other–"

"He can't come with us," she interrupts. I can hear Josie in the back, trying to calm Beth down.

"And do tell–" I cross an arm over my chest, raising an eyebrow, "--why is that?"

She lets out a huge sigh. "Fine. It was supposed to be a surprise for your birthday, but–" she hesitates, sucking on her front teeth. "I got us three VIP passes into Core!"

I blink a few times, racking my brain for this to somehow trip a memory. "Core?" Nope. No tripping. "What's Core?"

"Nora!" She scoffs in disbelief. "It's only the newest and hottest club in town. Tonight is opening night. Half price shots–"

"Uh, Beth–?" I could feel my stomach sinking under the weight of her excitement. And Josie wasn't any better, squealing over the line.

A club? Like, with dancing and drinking? I had never been to one before. And something tells me that the king wouldn't be too approving of his nineteen-year-old daughter partying with half-drunk strangers, groping her in the name of dancing. Still, it sounds like so much fun.

"--and we have a VIP table with bottle service until midnight!"

"Beth!" I call out to get her attention again. "There… there's just no way I can do that. Especially without Lars."

"C'mon, Nora. It's your freaking birthday. You're supposed to let loose–"

I hang my head into my hands. "You know I want to, but… I–I can't do that. My parents–"

"--don't have to know."

That silenced me real quickly into deep thought. I might not be the world's most perfect child, but I have learned never to hide things from Liam and Riley Rys. Never.

But I'd be lying if a glimmer of hope and excitement didn't blossom in my chest at the thought of going out despite my parent's knowledge. Besides, I am an adult; I'm almost twenty for crying out loud. If anything, I've shown them how responsible I am, and that I can be trusted. Plus, Aunt Livvy has taught me more than enough self-defense maneuvers that I could probably take a second job as a spy with her wife.

Okay. Maybe Beth has a plan.

"And how won't they find out? Lars has to give a detailed report–"

"We won't bring him."

That's the plan? I snicker under my breath, chewing on the inside of my cheek. "And… how do you suggest I get rid of him?"

"Why not a sleepover?" I hear Josie suggest in the background.

A sleepover. That could work. There were few places I could go where security didn't have to be right beside me once a building was given the all clear. Beth's house happened to be one of them.

"But I'm already dressed up. And–and I told my mom we were going out–"

"So?" Beth interjects. "We changed our minds. We'll have dinner catered."

Crap. Am I really considering this? I look at my reflection in the mirror as I twist my lips. Dangit. And I'm having a really good hair day.

"What's it gonna be, Nora?"

I take a few cleansing breaths. I can feel my pulse, galloping like a racehorse in my ears. Could I actually get away with this? I've been to Beth's house thousands of times. The guard comes in, does a quick sweep, and then keeps watch outside, never to return until it's time for me to leave. We could sneak out the back through the guest house. He would never know.

I swallow thickly, adrenaline pouring into my veins.

"Okay. Let me make a call."

~🖤~

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