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shewillreadyou · 2 years

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Me Before You: Chapter 13-Sorry

A/N: This is a TRR AU. Liam is already married, but see’s Riley and wants his cake. Drake and Riley are at the hospital visiting Liam before they head off to their honeymoon...

Disclaimers: Most characters are property of Pixelberry

Warnings: Language, adult content, sexual content, IF YOU ARE NOT 18 JUST DON’T. 🍋🍋🍋🍋🍋🍋🍋

A Big ol’ THANK YOU to all those who take the time to read my fics. I truly appreciate you. Extra thanks to those who comment and reblog. Y’all give me LIFE! Thank you to @secretaryunpaid for the pre-read.

Chapter 1: Haven’t met you yet

Chapter 2: For Real

Chapter 3: Excuse me miss

Chapter 4: It’s getting late

Chapter 5: Love on the brain

Chapter 6: When a man loves a woman

Chapter 7: Bad Habits

Chapter 8: Dive

Chapter 9: Guess who’s coming to Dinner?

Bonus: Just the way you are

Chapter 10: I Choose you

Chapter 11: Everytime I close my eyes

Chapter 12: Die a Happy man

Pairings: Drake & Riley

Prompts: @wackydrabbles prompt #123 “I don’t feel so good.” will appear in bold.

Word Count: 2000

Please Like, Comment and Reblog. It means alot to me. Thanks in advance. Also, let me know if you want on or off the taglist.

Drake excused himself to contact Madeline, the reception from Liam’s room was terrible. Riley waited by Liam’s side texting Carsyn. She knew that they only had a short window of time before they missed their flight. Carsyn confirmed that she was on the way back to the hospital as Riley settled into the chair beside Liam’s bed.

“Thank you.” His voice was so quiet Riley wasn’t sure if she had actually heard him or if she imagined it.

“Liam? You’re awake.”

He coughed before Riley quickly grabbed the white styrofoam cup next to the bed to hold the straw to his dry lips. He nodded, thanking her before speaking.

“What happened? Where are we?”

Riley stood to look into his eyes. “Liam, you were in a wreck after you left the strip club. You lost a lot of blood. We’re at Baylor hospital.”

“And you--” Liam chokes on his words. “You are here with me. I’m so sorry, Riley.”

“Sorry Liam? You’re sorry? For what? Are you sorry that you have been a creep since the moment we met? Or are you sorry that you burst into Drake’s room while I was changing? Or that you forced a kiss on me and accused me of wanting it? Perhaps you’re sorry for taking my husband to a strip club and paying a whore to seduce him. How about what you should be sorry about, about how disappointed your best friend was because you missed his wedding after staying out all night with strippers? We are supposed to be at the airport starting our happily ever after!” she spat. “But noooo, Drake is a better friend to you than you could ever be to him. So here we are! So you are right, you are one of the sorriest motherfuckers I have ever laid eyes on. How much more is he supposed to endure for you, Liam?” a deafening silence fell over the room. Liam closed his eyes contemplating her words.

“Answer me, dammit!”

“Riley, I--”

“You what? Liam, you are a poor excuse for a man.”

“I know. You have made your point. I-- I am ashamed of my behavior. It’s clear that I have some self reflecting to do.”

“That’s the understatement of the year. Carsyn is on her way. We have a plane to catch.”

“She is? Where’s Drake?”

“Yes, she is…and when she gets here you had better have your shit together. You are going to lose her and Drake if you keep to your trifling ways. They are sick of your shit, Liam. I don’t know how much Carsyn has left in her but Drake is done cleaning up your mess. That man, he is mine and I will protect him until my last breath. You’re not going to keep treating my husband like shit. He’s too good to you for that…”

“What am I too good for?” Drake asked as he and Bastien entered the room.

“Nothing,” Liam said quietly.

“Liam, you’re awake.” Drake moved to his side. “How are you feeling?”

“I don’t feel so good.”

“I’m sore; but I will live, I guess.” he trailed off. “Look, Drake I owe you an apology. I missed the wedding, got you tangled in my mess and now you might miss your flight.”

“It’s ok.” Drake started.

“No, it’s not!” Riley interrupted.

Drake shot her a warning glare before he continued. She deadpanned.

“I couldn’t leave knowing you were laid up in the hospital unconscious. Then we got here to find that girl from the club lurking around. She wants hush money Li.”

“Heh, I’m not surprised. Let Madeline handle it.”

“I contacted Madeline so she could get ahead of all of this before it hits the media. Riley and I had a flight to catch and we missed it. She insisted on getting you squared away before we headed to the airport.”

“Drake, I feel awful. Take the royal jet. I’m sure I can’t fly in this condition anyway. It’s the least I can do.” Liam pleaded.

“Damn right,” Riley quipped. Drake glared at her and she shrugged her shoulders as Liam smiled.

After getting Liam all squared away, Drake and Riley set out on their first adventure as a married couple. The 24 hour flight from Dallas to Phuket, Koh Phi Phi aboard the private jet gave them plenty of time to talk about the future, take naps, read, and of course rack up frequent flyer miles as members of the “Mile high Club.”

He had planned their day, but after that flight they were both spent. They spent the day in bed, tangled in the white cotton sheets, before slumber came to claim them both. Riley fell asleep on her husband's chest in the center of paradise.

The sound of heavy rainfall plucked her from her sleep as a gentle breeze tickled her skin. She reached across the bed to find the place where Drake slept the previous night empty. It was really early. The sun hadn’t come up yet the door to the deck was open and the breeze seemed to draw her.

------

“Carsyn, you came.” Liam laid heavily medicated in the Dallas hospital bed. He laid eyes on the one person who he never expected to see. He was sure he had blown it with her. His remorseful eyes followed her as she moved to his side.

She looked at his bruise pale skin before she placed her hand over his. “Li, I have to be honest. After all that we have been through, everything within me tells me I shouldn’t be here. That I should run away from you and never look back.”

“Car--”

“Let me finish,” she interrupted. He nodded. “But when I look into your eyes and I remember the vows I took to be by your side for better or for worse, I just can’t help coming to your aide. I have no idea if I will live to regret this, because all it has been for our entire marriage is for worse. When does the “for better” part start Li? When?” Her shoulders visibly shook as she held back a sob.

“Now,” he said barely above a whisper. “You’re a remarkable woman Carsyn. I’m not sure how you have held on this long, but I’m glad you have. I honestly didn’t know the depths of how deeply I needed you until you left. Come home. Let me prove to you that I can be the man you fell in love with. Riley was right. I have been a bismal husband, poor king and a pitiful friend.”

She gazed at him thoughtfully. Quietly, she spoke. “I don’t trust you. You assaulted your best friend’s wife, got drunk and got in a wreck and missed their wedding. Drake is a better friend to you than you could even be to yourself. He and his new bride missed their flight to their honeymoon to be at your side.”

“Don’t you think I know that? All the people I hurt the worst were the only ones by my side when I woke up. I realize that now. This has all been quite the humbling experience. I promise you Car, I will spend the rest of my days trying to right this wrong. All I do is run people away. You left me, Drake left me. Hell, even my own mother… I am so damaged.”

The rain poured violently through the canopy of trees. Riley found a shirtless Drake in a trance staring out into the storm. His far away look alarmed her. She slowly approached him, wordlessly placing her hand on his shoulder. After a few moments he reached up to cover her hand with his own. His deep breathing turned into unabashed sobs when she took him in her arms. “Babe, what the hell?”

“I’m a horrible friend. I left him alone. If I just stayed..He needed me.”

She wiped his tears. They terrified her. Her big strong, confident, brooding, masculine husband was a blubbering mess of tears. She swallowed thickly, trying her best to hold it together. “No! No Drake. You don’t get to do this. You don’t get to blame yourself and take on his bullshit.” she chidded. If you would have stayed you would have missed our wedding too. You’d be laid up in the hospital or worse, dead! You were where you were supposed to be. You came home. He’s a grown man Drake! You’ve taken care of him long enough. Let his wife take care of him. I need you. I’m your wife. Take care of me.”

His tears slowed as he pulled his bride into his lap. “You’re right, il mio amore. I’m so sorry,” he whispered against her neck. His lips found the sensitive flesh as his large calloused hand ran up her thigh. Her breath caught in her throat, she shivered as he broke contact with her just long enough to slide his undershirt over her head. “You are perfect, you know that?” She blushed at his words as she straddled him running her fingers through his thick chocolate mane. He bit his lip as he ghosted his hand down her curves. Her full lips found his in a slow lust filled kiss. She moaned into his mouth as he rolled her nipple between his thumb and forefinger. Her swollen lips parted as she panted. Her stiff tongue flicked one of his nipples before she moved over to suck the other. Her warm mouth followed her hands down his defined abs, her tongue tracing each muscle. She slowly dragged her tongue down his Adonis belt before tugging his boxers down. She smiled when he lifted his bottom to help. His monstrous erection sprung free as her eager mouth found his tip releasing it with a pop.

Drake pulled Riley to her feet and pressed her up against a post, before running his hand up her body settling his large hand around her throat. Their eyes met in adoration as her chest rose and fell with anticipation. Her body was on fire. She had never felt so connected to another person. It was deeper than a physical connection. As he looked into her eyes she was sure that their souls were one. Drake fell to his knees and rested his wife's thigh on his shoulder. He took his time kissing her inner thighs before burying his face in her apex. She gasped at the sensation. “Drake, I--Iove you,” she stuttered. “I love you more.” His voice reverberated throughout her core. His words were enough to send her crashing into her first orgasm.

Drake lifted her petite frame with one hand as she trembled. He stroked his throbbing length with the other pushing inside of her without warning. “Drake!” Riley screamed as she stretched around him. With her legs wrapped around his waist he thrusted into her slowly and deeply. A single tear fell down her cheek as she gripped the hair at the nape of his neck. His greyish blues met her hazel greens as she bounced up and down. “What have you done to me, woman?” Watching her cry got him all choked up. After several more passionate, sensual minutes of love making Drake could feel himself getting close. “I can’t hold out much longer in this position. Where do you want this?”

“Inside me.” she whispered in his ear. “I can’t wait to have your gorgeous country ass babies.” Drake buried his face in her neck as he chuckled lowly.

In that moment he knew he was a goner. He knew that he would give his life for her. He knew that she had been the best decision he had ever made. She was his dream come true. She completed him. She held him down like no one else could and still let him be a man. He didn’t know where life was taking them. But he was sure that with her by his side it would be an adventure.

@txemrn @secretaryunpaid @khoicesbyk @blackkingliamstan @mom2000aggie @shannonwrote @hopelessromanticmonie @chemist-ana @lucy-268 @dcbbw @darley1101 @maurine07 @sfb123 @bbrandy2002 @kingliam2019 @schnitzelbutterfingers @lem-20 @choicesficwriterscreations @petiteboheme @phoenixrising308 @queenrileyrose @somersetmummy @axwalker @gkittylove99 @nestledonthaveone @princessleac1 @wackydrabbles

TRR: @twinkleallnight @bebepac @mainstreetreader @romereadingshop @romewritingshop @lem-20 @texaskitten30

#choices fanfiction #trr #trr au fanfic #drake walker #drake x riley #me before you #fandom #fanfiction #fanfic #guess who's back #shewillreadyou #Kim writes #kimreads #KIM REBLOGS #phuket

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khoicesbyk · 1 year

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The Royal Romance.

Love Everlasting.

A/N: I had a different name and plot for this fic over a year ago. But after being in the RP community for more than a year, I've decided to write the current Royal Life of my favorite OTP.

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

Current Word Count: 19.8 K words. (may be slightly more or may be slightly less. Look, I stop counting after editing and re-editing and driving myself insane. 🤷🏾‍♀️)

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

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

Missing a chapter or want to read a chapter again? I got you covered! Click ——> Here!

TW: murder/execution and blackmail. If you are sensitive to any of those topics do not read any further. if you choose to continue on: THIS WILL BE YOUR ONLY WARNING! READER DISCRETION IS STRONGLY ADVISED!

It's King Liam Appreciation Week! And y'all know me. I am a King Marquise (Liam) Stan! So to publish the latest chapter of Love Everlasting during this week is a MAJOR PLUS for me. I hope you enjoy Part One! 😘

Tag List: @choicesficwriterscreations @kingliamappreciationweek @txemrn @peonierose @shewillreadyou @twinkleallnight

Chapter 11.) Fate. Part 1.

Shanelle stood beside her husband as he hung up the phone. His Majesty had just issued his first arrest warrant for murder. For his ex, Princess Naya Laurent.

“Are you okay?” she asked him.

“To be honest, no. But I have no choice. She poisoned Tariq.” Marquise replied.

“How can you be sure?” Shanelle asked.

Marquise sighed deeply.

“Trace amounts of Cantarella were found in the tissue sample collected,” he replied.

“Cantarella?” she asked.

“It's a type of poison that is identical to arsenic. Allegedly, it was used back during the time of Pope Alexander VI,” he replied.

“It's scary that you know that.”

Marquise shrugged.

“I have to know it. I studied poisons, remember?”

“I stand by my statement. Thank you very much.”

“Besides, it's been banned in Cordonia since the 1600s.”

“Why?” she asked.

“Because it's part of why Queen Kendra was killed,” he replied.

“There's a story there.”

Marquise settled into his chair.

“In its purest form, Cantarella is a powerfully potent tranquilizer. If it's burned and then inhaled it can leave you comatose. If it's ingested it slowly poisons your bloodstream and causes organ failure. When King Fabian found out that it was burned the night his aunt was killed, he banned it from the realm except for a small sample. He wanted it to be studied so a cure could be made. But as I said, that was centuries ago.”

“Okay well, that explains how she got her hands on it. Her dad was a King right?” she asked.

Marquise shook his head no.

“King Elgin never knew about it,” he replies.

Marquise sighed.

“This is about to be a PR nightmare.”

“Why? You have evidence that she killed her husband.”

“I have an autopsy report that shows the poison was in his system when he died, yes. But now I have to prove where she got it and how she used it to kill him. Not to mention I also have to figure out why she killed him.”

Shanelle wrapped her arms around his broad shoulders.

“It's a tall order but we will get it done.”

Marquise shook his head no.

“I will get it done. You're not getting involved in this.”

“It's cute that you think you have a choice in the matter. Per the law, Your Majesty, any time a noble is accused of a high crime like murder, their trial requires BOTH the King and Queen to sit at the head of parliament as the case is being heard. But only the first reigning Monarch can hand down the fate of said noble. So whether you like it or not, I’m in.”

Marquise groaned.

“You have a grudge against Naya. Your being there could make you look biased.”

Shanelle rolled her eyes.

“I know how to compartmentalize my personal feelings towards her so they don't get in the way of the trial thank you very much.”

“I'm not saying that you don't. What I’m saying is that knowing you and your history with her, you wouldn't necessarily be entirely fair to her. She at least deserves a fair trial. Unless you want us to be seen like the former Monarchs.”

Shanelle sighed.

“Okay fine, I see your point. But I promise that I can and will take whatever personal feelings I have toward Princess Naya out of this situation for the good of the kingdom and this trial.”

Marquise raised an eyebrow.

“Swear to it.”

Shanelle groaned.

“I swear to you my King, I will be fair and honest during her trial.”

Marquise nodded.

“Good. Now the arrest warrant should be here soon. So get ready for a media circus.”

“Yay!” Shanelle deadpanned.

There was a subtle knock at his door.

“Come in,” Marquise announced.

An attendant dressed in black and silver entered the room carrying an envelope.

“Apologies my King but I have the arrest warrant. All that is needed is your and Her Majesty’s signatures.”

“Very well.”

The attendant opened the envelope and placed the warrant on Marquise’s desk.

“Well, this is it. Are you ready?” Shanelle asked her husband.

Rather than answer, Marquise set his jaw and then signed the warrant before handing the pen to Shanelle. Once she signed her name, he took out his small jar of clay and sealed the warrant before handing it back to the attendant.

“With this now signed warrant, you are to arrest Princess Naya Laurent at her home. You will not disturb anyone within her house or duchy. Is that clear?” Marquise asked the attendant.

“Yes, my Liege.” the attendant replies.

“Good. You have your orders.”

With a curt nod, the attendant left the room as quietly as he came. Marquise let out a breath he’d been holding in.

“I can tell this is affecting you,” Shanelle said to him.

Marquise shook his head.

“Of course it is. Naya may be a lot of things but a murderer?” he asked.

“She's been spiraling for years, Marquise,” Shanelle replies.

“This is true. Which is why this is so bizarre. Tariq made a deal with me to keep her out of a dungeon. Not because he had to but because he loved her. He knew that if the court found out she tried to kidnap you, it would ruin both of them. It doesn't make any sense why she would kill him. He's the reason she has any freedom.”

“It didn't make any sense when she tried to kidnap me all those years ago but still she did it.”

Marquise ran a frustrated hand down his face.

“Look. I'm not the only one with a history with her. You have a history with her too. Yours is more intimate but still. At the end of the day, we have jobs to do. This trial is happening. Her murder charge is real. So we both need to compartmentalize our personal feelings about her and remember the facts. She murdered her husband and we need to find out why.” Shanelle said to her husband.

Marquise took a deep breath.

“I know. I'll be fine.”

“Good. When will the trial start?” Shanelle asked.

“Ideally I want to start it as soon as possible. But I’m thinking after Khari starts school Friday,” he replies.

“Okay. Do I need to do anything?” she asked.

“No. My advisors will convene the Heads Of State. And Carlo will get to be a prosecutor.” he replies.

“Carlo?” she asked.

“Yes. Whenever a noble is on trial for a crime like this the Keeper is the prosecutor,” he replies.

“And realistically what will we do?” she asked.

“As heads of the Monarchy and Parliament, we will get to ask both the prosecution and defense questions about evidence, witnesses, dates and times, that sorta thing during the trial. And once both sides have rested, the Parliament will convene and decide whether or not to convict or acquit. If she is convicted, it's up to me to decide whether or not she lives or she dies.” he replies.

“So basically I get to be Briscoe and you get to be Green?” she asked.

“No. This is not an episode of Law And Order! Besides you’re Green. I'm Briscoe. Thank you very much.” he replies.

“Why do you get to be Briscoe?” she asked.

“Because he was the senior detective. And since I am the King…”

Shanelle sucked her teeth.

“Yeah yeah.”

“When was the last time a trial like this happened?” she asked.

Marquise thought for a minute.

“I'll have to check with Carlo but I believe it was when my great-grandfather Leonidas was King. One of the nobles at that time was accused of spying on the Crown for another kingdom during WWII.”

“Wow!”

“So get ready my love. We're in for the trial of the century.”

The next few days were a whirlwind for the couple. Starting with their daughter finally starting school. And Her Majesty was anything BUT okay. She dreaded having to take her baby to her first day of school but she knew she had to. As they walked Khari to her class Shanelle’s emotions weren't having it. And Khari noticed.

“Now Mommy,” Khari said as she took her mother’s hands, “promise me that you'll be okay while I’m at school today.”

Shanelle wanted to die. She didn't want to let her baby go.

“…I promise,” she said sadly to Khari.

“Don't be sad Mommy! You still have Daddy.”

Shanelle’s bottom lip just quivered.

“Mommy I gotta be a big girl now. Right Daddy?” Khari asked her father.

“That's right my love. You’re a big girl now. Mommy knows that.” he replied.

“See Mommy?” Khari asked.

Shanelle whimpered and finally swallowed the lump in her throat.

“Okay, baby. Have fun at school today.” Shanelle finally spoke.

Khari hugged her mother.

“I will! I gotta go! I love you! Byeeeeee!” Khari said before she took off to her class.

That's when Shanelle broke and Marquise had to drag her back to their car.

“Myyyyyyyyyy babyyyyyyyyyyyyy!!!!” Shanelle cried as they rode back to the palace.

When they finally got back to the residence Marquise just looked at her.

“Jesus Christ woman!” Marquise said before shaking his head, “And you have the nerve to always call me overdramatic. She's fine. We knew this day was coming.”

“That doesn't mean I like it!” she snapped at him with tears in her eyes.

He sighed then led her to a bench where they sat down and pulled her close as she cried.

“I know you don't,” he spoke softly

“I don't like her not being with us. We are where she's safe. If anything happens to her—” she tried to say before her words were choked off by a sob.

“Shhhh! It's okay. As much as we hate it, my love, we can't stop her. She's a big girl now. She's ready to grow. She's ready to step out into the world.”

“You probably think I’m being ridiculous.”

Marquise shook his head.

“Not entirely. You’re a mother first and foremost. Your first instinct is to protect. And no one has protected our daughter more than you. No one has nurtured her more than you have. But she's more than just the Crown Princess of Cordonia who goes to ballet, voice, dance, painting, and piano lessons. While she succeeds at all of them she's ready to be around kids her age. She's ready for sleepovers and friends. The things we had as kids. Well, you more than me but I digress. She's ready to show the world who she is and who she can be.”

Shanelle nodded her head.

“I just love her so much that I…” she trailed off to get a hold of herself.

“Khari knows that. She knows that you're proud of her. And that you want her to do her best. That's how we've raised her to be.”

Shanelle smiled softly. Marquise kissed her forehead.

“Now dry your eyes. Because she’ll be home soon with a whole bunch of stories.”

A few days later, the couple were deep in conversation about their daughter's birthday party.

“While Khari’s at school, you and I can talk about the logistics of her birthday this year.”

He led Shanelle to a side garden where breakfast was waiting on them.

“Way ahead of you. It's happening at the winery.”

“Wonderful!”

“Sir. You will not be drinking at my daughter's birthday party.”

Marquise pouted.

“I don't need your big ass hobbling around the winery drunk.”

“I beg your pardon madam! I will have you know that I can hold my liquor!”

“Funny how you couldn't hold it that one time we were hosting a state dinner.”

Marquise made a face.

“My drink was spiked!”

“That's funny. Because mine wasn't. And we were drinking from the same wine bottle.”

Marquise grumbled.

“What is this giant teddy bear grumbling about now?” Margo asked as she stepped into the garden.

“Watch your tone or you'll be out of a job woman!” Marquise warned.

“Hah! You fire me now and you'll be a headless King by the time the Princess gets through with you.” Margo shot back.

“She doesn't get a say.”

“Hmm, I don’t know about that. One look at her and you'll fold like a cheap ass lawn chair.”

“What are you implying, my Queen?” he asked.

“That you’re a pushover for your daughter and that you’ll be even worse when the twins get here,” Margo replied.

“She's not wrong.” Shanelle piped up.

Marquise groaned.

“Had I known you two would constantly gang up on me I wouldn't have gotten married.”

“But you did. And now you’re stuck with us.” Shanelle said.

“So get used to it, Your Majesty.”

Marquise groaned as Shanelle and Margo laughed.

“If I didn't love you two as much as I do.”

Just then an attendant dressed in black and silver entered the garden.

“Pardon the interruption, my Liege, but I have news for you.”

“Go ahead,” Marquise said to the attendant.

“The arrest warrant for Princess Naya Laurent-Miller has been carried out.”

Marquise nodded.

“Where is she now?” Marquise asked.

“She is being processed before she is to be placed in a dungeon,” the attendant replied.

“Instead of a dungeon, keep her under heavy guard at one of the safe houses in the city center. Do not tell her husband anything about her whereabouts until the start of the trial.”

The attendant nodded.

“Take great care, do not let a word about this slip. Is that clear?” Marquise asked.

“Yes, my King.” the attendant replies.

“Good. Now you have your orders.”

“By your command, my Liege.”

The attendant bowed to Shanelle and Margo.

“My Queen. Madam Geaneaux,” he said to them before leaving.

“Naya? Arrested?” Margo asked.

“Yes,” Marquise replied.

“Whatever for?” Margo asked.

“Murder,” he replies.

Margo gasped loudly.

“Murder?! What in the world?!”

“Of Tariq.” Shanelle piped up.

Margo looked at Marquise.

“I thought Tariq died of organ failure.”

Marquise shook his head no.

“That's what we all thought. But something always nagged me about the suddenness of his death. So I had his body exhumed and had an autopsy done. Turns out that he was poisoned.”

“Poisoned?! My God! With what?” Margo asked.

“Cantarella,” Marquise replied.

Margo’s eyebrows shot up.

“Impossible. Cantarella has been banned since the time of your ancestor King Fabian. It is said that he kept a small sample of it hidden when a cure for the poison couldn't be made or found. But no one is supposed to know where he hid it.”

“Well somehow it was found and used. And now we have a murder trial to prepare for.”

Margo shook her head.

“Lord Tariq was pretentious as all hell I'll admit, but that's no reason to poison him. It just makes no sense.”

“Well, we'll find out why she did it next Wednesday. That is when her trial will begin.”

Margo nodded.

“Very well, Your Majesty.”

Marquise nodded to Margo before looking at his wife.

“In the meantime, I have a meeting with Carlo about the trial that I can't miss. While you have a checkup to get to. I'm sorry I have to miss your appointment.”

“It's okay. I probably shouldn't have scheduled it at the last minute.”

“You'll call me if you need anything, yes?”

“Yup. Margo will go with me so I'll be fine.”

“Alright. I'll see you both later.”

With a sweet kiss to his wife, His Majesty was off to meet with his cousin. When he got to his office, Carlo was waiting.

“Good morning cousin. I hope I wasn't keeping you long.” Marquise said in greeting.

“Not at all, my King. I had just gotten here maybe 5 minutes before you.” Carlo replied.

“Please have a seat so we can get started,” Marquise said as both took their seats.

“Well, this is quite the predicament we find ourselves in, cousin. Charging a noble, much less a female noble at that, with murder is highly unorthodox.” Carlo said to Marquise.

“I understand. But I can't just ignore the fact that a man was killed with a poison that has been banned for centuries.”

“What poison?” Carlo asked.

“Cantarella. It was found in a tissue sample that was taken when I had Lord Tariq Sauvageon’s body exhumed.” Marquise replied.

Carlo nodded.

“And you think that Naya used it to kill her husband?” Carlo asked.

“Yes, I do,” Marquise replied.

“But why?” Carlo asked.

“That's for you to find out, Carlo. After all, you’re the prosecution,” Marquise replied.

“Very well. I will finish preparing my opening statement and I will see you Wednesday, Your Majesty.”

Marquise nodded.

“I just have to ask Marquise. Given the history she has with you and your wife, can you and Shanelle be impartial?” Carlo asked.

“Of course. This is a serious charge, Carlo. I don't have time to be emotional about Naya. I am a King. I have a job to do and a responsibility to uphold.” Marquise replied.

“Very good. I shall take my leave now. I'll see you Wednesday.”

Marquise watched Carlo walk out before getting on with his day. He had just finished lunch when there was a knock at his door.

“Come in,” he called out.

When he looked up, a group of guards walked in escorting Naya with them.

“The prisoner as you requested my King.” the lead guard announced.

“Thank you, gentlemen.”

Naya sat down across from Marquise with her chains making a loud clunking sound.

“Those won't be necessary.” Marquise indicated to the chains around her wrists and ankles. “I trust the Princess isn't stupid enough to try me.”

With a curt nod, a guard unlocked the shackles.

“Thank you. That will be all.”

The guards left the room, leaving Marquise alone with his former love.

“Well you certainly know how to make life difficult don't you?” he asked Naya.

She remained silent. Just glaring daggers at him. Which made him chuckle.

“The silent treatment eh? Very well. We’ll play this your way.”

Marquise dialed a number on his office phone.

“Yes my King?” a voice answered.

“Get in contact with Donnie Brine. Tell him to go ahead and run the story.”

“Yes, Your Majesty.”

When Marquise hung up the phone, Naya had a terrified look on her face.

“I suggest you start talking, Princess.”

“I've done nothing wrong!” Naya blurted out.

“I didn't know murdering your former husband was considered doing nothing.”

“Murdering my former husband?! You're insane Marquise! I would never kill Tariq!”

“Then explain to me how Cantarella got into his system.”

“What did you say?” she asked sheepishly.

“Cantarella. I take it that it's ringing a bell?” he replied.

He watched Naya shift in her seat uncomfortably.

“I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

“Yes, you do.”

“No, I don't. As far as I'm concerned this whole situation was orchestrated by your wife as a witch hunt!”

That's when Marquise presented Naya with the autopsy report.

“Then explain this.”

Naya went pale as she read the report.

“This is your only chance, Naya. What happened?” he asked.

Naya looked at him trying not to be scared out of her mind.

“How did you…”

“You're not saying anything.”

Naya remained quiet.

“Have it your way. Guards!” he called out.

“Wait!” she blurted out.

“Are you ready to talk?” he asked.

Naya nodded her head yes.

“Start talking.”

He watched her hang her head with tears.

“I…I…I didn't mean it.”

“You didn't mean what?” he asked.

“I didn't mean to kill him! I swear!” she replied.

“You expect me to believe that you poisoned him accidentally?” he asked.

“I didn't know it was poison until after he died. The original coroner's report confirmed that it was Cantarella that killed him. I knew that if you, his parents, or anyone else found out I’d be screwed so I begged the coroner to change the cause of death on the report.” she replied.

Marquise shook his head.

“You killed an innocent man Naya. I can't overlook this.”

Naya scoffed.

“My late husband was a lot of things. Innocent was never one of them.” she sneered.

“What are you talking about? He loved you.”

“That's what he wanted people to think. In reality, I was just a trophy to him. A reason to elevate him and his parent's station. I was nothing more than a glorified contractual obligation.”

Marquise shrugged.

“You agreed to the betrothal Naya. You were even given a chance to back out of the marriage before you got married.”

“And what good would that have done me?! It wouldn't have erased my father's debt and it wouldn't have brought you back to me so what other choice did I have?” she asked.

“If you were that unhappy why didn't you ask for a divorce?” he replied.

“I tried! I begged Tariq for a divorce. I even told him that I wanted nothing from him. I just wanted our marriage to be over but he said no. He was going to make sure that I kept up my family’s end of the agreement. I even went to your father and asked him to grant me a divorce on the grounds of irreconcilable differences and even he refused. He said, while he understood why I wanted a divorce, it was none of his or the Monarchy’s business to get involved in our personal affairs.” she replied.

“You could've come to me.”

Naya scoffed.

“Oh please! You would've been no better than King Constantine. Besides, you've had your head way too far up your commoner wife’s ass to care about me.”

“If you're trying to be funny, you just failed.”

“There was nothing you could do for me.”

“For the record, had you come to me I would have granted you your divorce if you were that unhappy. But it's not just the divorce that you wanted. You wanted the divorce and you wanted me to leave my family for you.”

Naya looked down at her hands.

“We should still be together. We belong together,” she whispered.

“For the love of God! Let it go Naya!”

Naya went to say something but instead suddenly clutched her stomach.

“Are you sick?” he asked.

Naya shook her head no.

“When your guards came to arrest me, I had just gotten back from my doctor's appointment.”

“Okay and? What does that have to do with this conversation?” he asked.

“I had a blood test done. And it confirmed that I'm pregnant,” she replied.

Marquise looked at her skeptically.

“You're lying.”

“I'm not lying!”

“Then why am I just now hearing about this?” he asked.

“Because you have me charged with murder Marquise!” Naya replied.

Marquise raised an eyebrow at her.

“Naya, where did you get the poison?” Marquise asked.

Naya swallowed hard.

“Answer the question Naya.”

“I don't have to tell you anything else,” she replied.

“Is that your final answer?” he asked.

“Yes. I no longer wish to speak with you without my legal counsel present,” she replied.

“Very well,” he said to her before calling out to the door. “Guard!”

The guards entered the room.

“Take the prisoner back,” Marquise instructed.

Just then Marquise’s phone pinged.

“Well now you've just made front-page news,” he said as he showed her the headline that was going across his phone. “Also since you claim to be pregnant, you have 24 hours to produce proof of this pregnancy.”

“How the hell am I supposed to do that?” Naya asked.

“That sounds like a you problem not a me problem. Get this woman out of my sight,” he replied.

Marquise watched his guards escort Naya out of his office.

As Naya was escorted out she ran into Shanelle as she was coming back from her appointment.

“Hello, Princess or should I say, soon-to-be former Princess?” Shanelle said to Naya.

“Go fuck yourself, Your Majesty!” Naya sneered.

“Why do that when I can fuck the man you'll never have?” Shanelle asked smugly. “Get this bitch outta my palace!”

Shanelle watched as Naya was hauled away before walking into her husband’s office.

“You met with the suspect without me?” Shanelle asked.

“Yes,” Marquise replied.

“What did she tell you?” Shanelle asked as she sat down.

“Nothing outside of the fact she claims she's pregnant,” he replies.

“Whoa! Whoa! Whoa! Naya?! Your ex?! Is pregnant?!” Shanelle asked

“That's what she told me,” he replies.

“Geez!”

“She has 24 hours to prove it though.”

“If she actually is pregnant God help us all.”

Marquise nodded as she joined him behind his desk.

“Indeed. How was your appointment?”

“It was good. She decreased my blood pressure meds and increased my potassium and iron intake. She said my levels aren't where she wants them to be.”

“You're not anemic are you?”

“Yes. Because this pregnancy is more than one baby, anemia is to be expected.”

Marquise nodded.

“That means you need more iron in your diet, my love. I’ll call the kitchens to make sure that you are given more iron-rich foods.”

“Yes, Mom.”

He cut his eyes at her.

“Don't get smart with me.” he snapped at her.

“Ooh! Someone’s in a mood today.”

Marquise sighed.

“I'm sorry. I didn't mean to snap at you.”

“You can make it up to me by buying me a Birkin.”

“I take it back,” he muttered.

He placed a hand on her belly.

“And how are my little ones?” he asked.

“Still playing too damn much. They're not in position!” Shanelle complained.

Marquise tapped a finger on her stomach.

“Hello, my little ones. I'm not sure if you can hear me but Daddy needs you two to do him a big favor. I need you both to prepare for your debut. That includes the two of you getting into your birthing position. Daddy can't hold either of you if you two aren't in position.”

Shanelle laughed.

“You love talking to them.”

“Of course. It helps in their development before birth. Besides, I like hearing my own voice.”

“Gee! I hadn't noticed.”

Marquise snickered.

“What are your plans for the rest of the day?” she asked.

“Prepping for the trial,” he replied.

“Since you met with her, do you still think she did it?”

“Yes, I do. When I asked her where she got the Cantarella she clammed up.”

“She could be protecting someone.”

“That's the problem. She is protecting someone. And since she wants to protect whoever this person is, she can go to the dungeons for them.”

Shanelle had never seen him have this much conviction.

“You sure are confident.”

“I have to be. I don't have time to let her tears sway me.”

“Very well. I won't keep you long. Besides, I have to go pick up your daughter from school. I'm sure she and her friend will have a lot to say about their day today.”

The record in Marquise's head stopped.

“Friend?! What friend?” he asked.

“You know her cute little friend Xavier. The one she always walks out with,” she replies.

“He is not her little friend.”

“Stop being jealous.”

Marquise gave his wife a lopsided look.

“She does not have a little friend!” he said through gritted teeth.

“Poor Papa Bear. Can rule a kingdom but can't let his baby girl go.”

“I said what I said!” he said emphatically.

Shanelle shook her head with a chuckle.

“I'll see you later babe.”

“Uh-huh. I'll see you later.”

Marquise watched his wife walk out of his office before he went back to prepping for the trial. Later that night after prep for the trial and family time with his sweet girl, His Majesty was coming out of the shower with a million and one questions that had no real answers.

It started to remind him of the first time she snapped.

The kingdom was abuzz for their new King and Queen. They had just returned to Cordonia after being married. They were greeted by fanfare and many were excited to get a glimpse of their new Monarchs. After meeting with the Parliament and establishing the new Monarchy it was time for the newest Royal Couple to host their first state dinner.

The palace was alight with activity. Many spent days preparing for the dinner. None more than Marquise. He had done these in his sleep but his new bride had not. And he was excited to show her what life as a reigning Queen was really like. The day of the state dinner was a busy one for the couple. But they handled it beautifully. They were almost ready to debut but something was missing for Marquise.

“Okay, so why are we going to the vault?” Shanelle asked as they walked to the vault.

“You'll see in a minute,” Marquise replies.

Once inside the vault, they headed towards the Queen’s section. They were looking for a tiara for Shanelle to wear that night.

“Look at them! They're all so beautiful,” she said to him.

“Indeed they are. And they’re all yours to choose from. The custom one I had made for your coronation isn’t quite ready yet. So that’s why we’re here. So you can choose one to wear tonight. So take your time but don't take too much time. We do have a debut to make.”

Shanelle shook her head with a smile before she browsed the many tiaras. Each one was unique. Some were simple and others were way too gaudy for her taste. She settled on one tiara that didn't look like the rest. It was studded with diamonds like the rest but this one also had a blood-red ruby in the middle that was surrounded by smaller rubies.

“I think I found the one I want to wear,” she said to him.

Marquise looked at the tiara in its case with a fond look on his face.

“Are you sure, my love?” he asked.

Shanelle nodded her head yes.

“Very well.”

With a snap of his fingers, an attendant opened the case and removed the tiara and the ceremonial pillow it sat on, and presented it to Marquise.

“Thank you,” he said to the attendant as he sat it on the pedestal next to the case. He picked up the tiara with a fond smile on his face as he held it in his hands.

“This one is my favorite out of all the tiaras,” he said before turning to Shanelle.

“Why is that?” she asked.

Before answering he gently placed the tiara on her head. She turned to the floor-length mirror to the left of her.

“Because this was my mother’s crown.” he finally answered.

She looked at him and then looked at her reflection in the mirror.

“This was Eleanor’s crown?” she asked.

“Yes. It's been in the vault at the main house of my duchy for years. I had it brought to the palace in hopes that you'd wear it one day.” he replied.

Shanelle stared at herself in the mirror. She couldn't believe he wanted her to wear something that belonged to his mother.

“No Marquise I can't. As beautiful as it is, I can't wear this. I wouldn't dare disrespect Eleanor, like that.”

As she went to take it off he stopped her.

“Please don't take it off. I want you to wear it. I want the world to see you wear it. It's a beautiful crown and it deserves to be worn by a beautiful woman. This is one of the many gifts I have for you. I want to see you shine in it. And okay, maybe I wanna stick it to the old codger my mother called her husband.”

Shanelle looked back at herself one last time before nodding resolutely.

“If it means that much to you, I’d be honored to wear it. Besides, anytime we get to stick it to the old man is a perk for me.”

“Now you’re getting it.”

He offered her his arm as they walked out of the vault. When they got to the main dining room Shanelle was nervous and Marquise knew it.

“Nervous love?” he whispered.

“That obvious?” she replied.

Marquise kissed her cheek.

“No need to be nervous. Let's take a deep breath, straighten our shoulders, and command the room and those within it the way it's supposed to be.”

Shanelle snickered.

“You are about to have fun with this aren't you?” she asked.

“Absolutely,” he replied.

With a nod to the guard at the door, the doors opened and the couple made their debut.

“All rise!” the herald announced. “Introducing His Majesty King Marquise Rys and Her Majesty Queen Shanelle Miller-Rys!”

They entered the room to fanfare and with all eyes on the two of them. It was the first time in a long time that Marquise didn't hate hearing his name be announced to a room full of nobles. When he looked out into the crowd he saw her parents as well as George and Margo. Both couples stood proudly as they watched their children, the new Monarchs enter the room. When his eyes landed on the sour faces of his father and stepmother and then Shanelle’s aunt and uncle, he couldn't help the satisfied smirk that crossed his lips.

As they reached the middle of the room, Marquise held up a hand to silence everyone in attendance.

“Good evening one and all! On behalf of my gorgeous wife, I want to say thank you to everyone and welcome you all to the very first state dinner hosted by your newest Monarchs. Now I know that some of you are still getting used to the idea that little ole me has gone from Prince Of North Cordonia to the King Of Cordonia now. But I assure all of you that as your new King, it is my goal to make sure that Cordonia begins to thrive and work for all of us. And now I believe my beautiful wife would like to say a few words.”

Shanelle shook her head before addressing the crowd.

“First off, good evening everyone! Thank you all for attending this dinner tonight. I know there have been a lot of changes within the kingdom since His Majesty and I were married and we came home. But I promise all of you that these changes are for the greater good of Cordonia for all Cordonians. We have made it our mission to be mindful of all of you as well as the people when decisions are to be made. We want a prosperous kingdom for Cordonia and all of her people.”

Marquise smiled at her before addressing the room.

“Please everyone be seated so dinner can be served.”

As they took their seats, Shanelle noticed the venomous look on Naya’s face.

“Husband of mine.”

“Yes, my love?” he asked.

“Your ex is giving me the death stare to end all death stares,” she replied.

Marquise groaned.

“She'll get over it. Now let's eat.”

As they ate, Shanelle couldn't shake the uneasy feeling of being watched. After dinner and dessert, it was time for dancing. The room watched the couple take their first dance as King and Queen. Shanelle still felt uneasy as she danced with her husband and soon her father. And he noticed how troubled his daughter looked.

“Are you alright my darling?” he asked as they danced.

“Yes, Daddy. I'm okay,” she replied.

“Are you sure? Because you don't look okay.”

Shanelle sighed.

“I think I’m being stalked.”

“By who?” Damien asked.

“Princess Naya Laurent-Sauvageon. Better known as His Majesty's former lover.” Shanelle replied.

Damien nodded his head.

“She's King Elgin’s daughter, yes?” Damien asked.

“Yeah, that's her,” Shanelle replied.

“I grew up with her mother Queen Bernadette. She was on my school’s debate team with me.”

“What was she like?” Shanelle asked.

“She had her…peculiarities that's for sure. But she was mostly harmless.” Damien replies.

“Yeah well her daughter isn't.”

“I'll speak to Marquise about amping up your security.”

“You don't have to do that Daddy. I'll be fine.”

“Are you sure?” he asked.

“Yes, I’m sure,” Shanelle replies.

“You can't blame me for being protective.”

Shanelle kissed her father on the cheek.

“I know. I love you.”

“I love you too my darling.”

As that night wound down Shanelle’s feet started to hurt so she stepped out into a side garden and sat down on a bench to rest with the music

“Ugh! My feet! Note to self: don't wear heels to a state dinner.” she said as she rubbed her aching feet.

“Good evening, Your Majesty.” a voice called out.

When Shanelle looked up she found herself looking at Naya.

“Good evening, Princess. Can I help you with something?” Shanelle asked.

“Yes, I was hoping I could have a moment of your time,” Naya replies.

Shanelle sized Naya up.

“Sure. What can I help you with?” she asked.

“Let's take a walk, shall we?” Naya suggested.

Shanelle looked at Naya sideways.

“Lead the way, Princess.”

The two walked down the cobblestone path toward a small pond.

Naya cleared her throat.

“Now that we're alone, I have a question for you.”

“Yes?” Shanelle asked.

“When are you leaving?” Naya asked.

That question stopped Shanelle in her tracks.

“What do you mean?” Shanelle replied.

“Just what I asked. When are you leaving?”

Shanelle started to get annoyed.

“I don’t know if you know this Naya, but I’m not going anywhere. I am the Queen Of Cordonia after all.”

Naya scoffed.

“Not for long.”

“What the hell are you–” Shanelle started to ask before Naya pulled a knife on her.

“You crazy bitch! Are you insane?!” Shanelle shouted.

“No. I'm tired. I am tired of you and I’m tired of seeing you with the man that is supposed to be mine. So we are going to take a walk and then you will disappear permanently.” Naya replied.

“I'm not going anywhere with you!”

“You don't have a choice, Your Majesty.” Naya sneered.

That's when Naya lunged at Shanelle but she was able to dodge. When Naya turned around Shanelle grabbed for the knife and the two struggled to gain control. Shanelle had just knocked the knife out of Naya’s hands when Naya kicked her in the stomach. Naya had just wrapped her hands around Shanelle’s neck when she was pulled off by Marquise.

“Guards! Over here!” he shouted.

A few guards rushed to their King’s side followed by Shanelle’s parents.

“Arrest her now!” Marquise ordered.

As the guards subdued Naya, Marquise checked on his wife.

“Are you alright?” he asked.

“No, I’m not alright! Your crazy ass ex just tried to kidnap and then kill me!” Shanelle said as she tried to catch her breath, “How did you know where to find me?”

“When you didn't come back inside, your parents got worried and they came to me. That's when I had the guards go looking for you. When they heard you shouting they alerted me.”

When the guards presented Naya to Marquise he was furious.

“Get this woman out of my sight!” he hissed.

“Shall we escort her to the dungeons?” the guard asked.

“Yes. And find Lord Tariq! Now!” Marquise replied.

The couple and her parents watched as the guards hauled Naya away; that's when Shanelle looked at her father.

“What were you saying about her mother being harmless?” Shanelle asked Damien.

Later that night while Shanelle was safely with her parents, Marquise was in his office with Tariq.

“My wife did what?!” Tariq asked.

“You heard me. She tried to kidnap and kill your Queen.” Marquise replied.

“Your Majesty, surely there must be some logical explanation for this.”

“Oh, you want a logical explanation for this? Here it is, your wife is fucking crazy and she will be stripped of her title and lands.”

“No Marquise please don't do that!”

“You don't get a say in the matter, Tariq.”

“Your Majesty, I beg you not to strip her of her title and lands. Because doing so would weaken my family’s standing in the court as well as hers. I will do anything to make sure that doesn't happen.”

Marquise looked at him.

“You'll do anything?” Marquise asked.

“Yes, my King! Anything. Just name it.” Tariq replied.

Marquise thought for a moment.

“Here's the deal. You are to go pick your wife up from the dungeons and you two are to never return to my palace unless I send for you both. Also, you are to keep her under lock and key. She does not leave your house and duchy without you at her side. I don’t care if she's going grocery shopping or going to see her father. You will be with her while she is among the populace at all times. If I see her out or if I hear she has traveled outside of your home much less your duchy without you, I will publicly execute you both. Is that clear?”

Tariq swallowed hard.

“I asked you a question, Tariq.”

“Yes, Your Majesty. I understand.”

“Good. Now get out!” Marquise hissed.

Tariq scurried out of Marquise’s office.

Marquise shook his head at the memory as he got ready for bed.

The next day he and Shanelle were up bright and early. After breakfast with their daughter and getting her off to school, Their Majesties were getting dressed for the trial. Once his regalia was on, Marquise went to check on his wife. She had just finished pinning her hair so that it flowed down her right shoulder when her husband walked in. Because of her being so far along in her pregnancy, she chose to wear a simple olive green Maxi dress.

“You are a vision to behold my Queen,” he said as he walked up behind her.

“And you are a kiss ass, Your Majesty. But I appreciate the compliment,” she replied as she stood up from her vanity. “Well don't you look official.”

Marquise smiled proudly.

“Like the Kings of old!” he replied.

Shanelle shook her head.

“You're such a dork. Are you ready?” she asked.

“Yes. I don't have a choice not to be,” he replied.

“Marquise look at me.”

Marquise looked at his wife.

“I know that this trial will affect you. Because as strong and confident of a leader as you are, my King, I know that there's still a small part of you and your heart that still cares for Naya.”

Marquise sighed deeply.

“You're right there is. I will always care for and about her. There's even a part of me that wishes I didn't have to do this. Hell, if I’m to be quite honest with you, I don't want to do this. But she brought this on herself. She forced my hand.”

“I know. And I know you don't like this. I get it but as you and I both know, we have to do things and make decisions that neither of us will like or necessarily agree with. As you've taught me it comes with the territory of being the Monarchs.”

Marquise had a look on his face.

“What is it?” Shanelle asked.

“There's a bug in my ear,” he replied.

“Ew!”

“Not that kind of bug.”

“Then what do you mean?” she asked.

Marquise sighed.

“Something my father said to me years ago,” he replied.

“Oh, dear God! What?” she asked.

Marquise took a deep breath before contorting his face to mirror Constantine’s scowl.

"Pretty soon you'll find out that you can't have it all. You will have to make decisions that you won't like. Ones that will haunt you. And you'll have no one to blame but yourself and that girl you're so in love with."

“A.) don't ever do that again. B.) ugh! What the hell would he know anyway?” she asked.

“He knew that if something like this were to ever happen, I wouldn't know how to handle it,” he replied.

Shanelle took her husband's hands in hers.

“Stop it. Stop it right now. Connie said that to attack you and shake your confidence in yourself and your abilities as King. Don't you dare let what that old bastard said to you get to you. You are ready. You are willing. And God knows you are able, Marquise. So let's go.”

Marquise nodded his head with a smile.

“Thank you, my love. I appreciate you,” he said before kissing her softly on her forehead.

“You're welcome babe. Now we have a trial to get to.”

“Indeed we do.”

He offered her his arm.

“Milady.”

“M’lord.”

The two walked out of her closet and headed to the northern wing of the palace where the trial is to take place. As they walked, Shanelle got curious.

“Now why is the trial in this part of the palace?” she asked.

“Because this part of the palace stands on top of the old courthouse. It was burned down when the old palace was burned down back in the 1700s,” he replied.

“What a time that must've been,” she said.

“Indeed.”

When they reached the doors of the courthouse, Marquise closed his eyes and took a deep breath. Shanelle laid her head on his right shoulder. He opened his eyes with a smile before kissing her forehead gently.

“Well, this is it. Are you ready, Your Majesty?” she asked.

“Yes, I am,” he replied.

“Then lead the way, my King.”

Marquise squared his shoulders and then nodded to the guard at the door. The herald on the other side could be heard.

“All rise and remain standing for Their Majesties! Introducing His Majesty King Marquise Rys! And Her Majesty Queen Shanelle Miller-Rys!”

With the announcement of their arrival, the couple donned stoic masks as they entered the room. All eyes were on them as they made their way to their seats. All of the Heads Of State were in attendance as well as Shanelle’s family and Tariq’s family. Once at their seats, Marquise addressed everyone in the room.

“Everyone be seated.”

Everyone took their seats as Giancarlo addressed the room.

“Good morning everyone. We are here today because one Princess Naya Laurent-Sauvageon-Miller stands accused of the murder of the former Lord Tariq Sauvageon of Duchy Arnaud. Her Highness’s former husband.”

Many in the room started to whisper amongst themselves. As Carlo continued with his opening speech, Marquise looked in Naya’s direction, he watched her have her eyes trained downward.

“You think she's scared?” Shanelle whispers to Marquise.

“She’s terrified. Because I got a look at Giancarlo’s witness list, the original coroner is one of the witnesses,” he replied.

“Does he know that you have the new autopsy report?” she asked.

“Probably not. Because he wouldn't be on the witness list if he knew,” he replied

“Why not?” she asked.

“Because I could charge him with conspiracy,” he replied.

“Really?” she asked.

“Yes. It would be the same as charging him with tampering with evidence in America,” he replied.

“Safe to say she did not think any of this through.”

“That could be a gift for the defense.”

“How?” she asked.

“They could argue that only someone with intent to kill Tariq could pull this off,” he replied.

Shanelle shrugged.

“I mean she did hate him.”

“She hated the circumstance she was in. Not him.”

“Then why kill him?” Shanelle asked.

“I guess we'll find out,” he replied.

“One last question, when does this trial end?” she asked.

“It ends when I've heard enough from both sides and I’m ready for the Parliament to vote,” he replied.

Just then Giancarlo had finished his opening statement.

“Thank you, Giancarlo. And now Princess Naya’s legal counsel Lady Stephanie Hellstrom may rise and give her opening statement.” Marquise announced.

Just as Naya’s attorney began their opening statement, an attendant handed Marquise a Manila envelope.

“What's that?” Shanelle asked her husband.

“Let's find out shall we?” Marquise replied.

He opened the Manila envelope and raised an eyebrow as he read the documents within.

“Well, I’ll be damned.”

“What is it?” she asked.

“Naya was actually telling the truth. This is the result of her pregnancy test. It confirms that she is 12 weeks pregnant,” he replies.

“Seriously?!” she asked.

“Read it for yourself,” he replies.

Shanelle read the report and her face soured.

“Dear God! Here comes the Antichrist. Gird your loins, Your Majesty.”

Marquise rolled his eyes.

“Stop that.”

“So what happens now?” Shanelle asks.

“Once Lady Hellstrom is done with her statement, we get this trial underway,” Marquise replied.

“And how long will this last?” Shanelle asked.

“No more than 7 days. I'm not about to drag this out for weeks. We still have a kingdom to run.” he replies.

“Okay. Well, Lady Hellstrom is almost done with her statement.” Shanelle to him.

“Good. Let's get this show on the road.”

Once Lady Hellstrom was done with her statement, Marquise cleared his throat and addressed everyone in the room.

“Now that both sides have given their openings, the trial may commence. Both will present their cases and once I have heard both sides, I will end the trial and the Parliament will convene. Members of the Parliament will then vote to either convict or acquit. Both sides get two days each to present witnesses for questioning and evidence for their cause. Any witness can be called or recalled by myself or Her Majesty at will. The prosecution may now present their case.”

Giancarlo nodded.

“Thank you, my King. As my first witness, I'd like to call Lord Dr. Bailey Oscar the Medical Examiner of Duchy Arnaud.”

Shanelle glanced at her husband who was stone-faced. Many watched as the elderly man took his seat in front of the King and Queen.

“Lord Oscar. Thank you for coming this morning. Now you performed the autopsy on Lord Tariq did you not?” Giancarlo asked him.

“Yes, sir. I performed the autopsy.” Lord Oscar replied.

Marquise steepled his fingers together.

“Tell me what was your cause of death?” Giancarlo asked.

“Organ failure. From what I gathered during the autopsy, Lord Tariq's organs had slowly been failing for months.” Lord Oscar replied.

“Could you tell me how a man who was relatively healthy suffered from organ failure?” Marquise asked.

“Acute organ failure can happen to any one of us my King. But in the case of Lord Tariq, I determined that he had a sepsis infection.” Lord Oscar replied.

“And you know this to be true?” Marquise asked.

“Yes sir. Lord Tariq’s sudden organ failure was caused by a sepsis infection.” Lord Oscar replied.

Marquise nodded.

“He's lying,” Shanelle whispered to Marquise.

“I know,” Marquise replied before clearing his throat.

“Lady Hellstrom, do you have any questions?” Marquise asked.

“No sir. I am satisfied and confident in his findings.” Lady Hellstrom replied.

“Very well. I have just one request for you, Lord Oscar. Will you take a look at this?” Marquise asked as he handed off the new autopsy report to an attendant standing to his right.

“Of course my King. May I ask what I’m looking at?” Lord Oscar asked.

“A new autopsy report. I had Lord Tariq’s body exhumed and a new autopsy was done. Can you tell me, Her Majesty, and those of The Parliament what it says?” Marquise asked.

Lord Oscar read the report and his face paled.

“Lord Oscar, what does the report say?” Marquise asked.

“It says that Lord Tariq was poisoned.” Lord Oscar replied.

Gasps were heard throughout the courtroom.

“Poisoned with what Lord Oscar?” Marquise asked.

“It says here that Lord Tariq was poisoned with Cantarella.” Lord Oscar replied.

“But Cantarella poisoning isn't on the original autopsy report you submitted is it?” Giancarlo asked.

“No sir it's not.” Lord Oscar replied.

“Why?” Marquise asked.

“I didn't think to test him for poisons, sir.” Lord Oscar replied.

“You are the Medical Examiner for Duchy Arnaud, how could you not think to test him for poison?” Shanelle asked.

“Because his body showed no signs of poisoning. I didn't think it was necessary. I've never been wrong, my Queen.” Lord Oscar replied.

“Except for this,” Shanelle said under her breath.

“Then we have a dilemma, Lord Oscar because one of these autopsy reports is lying. And I need to know which one.” Marquise said to the Lord.

Lord Oscar fidgeted with his hands.

“Also you know what the penalty for lying to your King is, don't you?” Marquise asked him.

Marquise watched the Lord swallow hard before hanging his head.

“Alright! Alright! I admit it! The autopsy I submitted nearly a year ago is false.” Lord Oscar admitted.

“Explain,” Marquise said to him.

“I ran a toxicology screening on the former Lord and I found that he was poisoned.” Lord Oscar replied.

“Then why lie on the autopsy report?” Marquise asked.

“I didn't lie. I just omitted the true cause of death.” Lord Oscar replied.

“A lie of omission is still a lie, Lord Oscar. But my question is why lie at all?” Marquise asked.

“Because I was told to.” Lord Oscar replied.

“By who?” Marquise asked.

Lord Oscar looked nervously between Marquise and Naya.

“By Lord Tariq’s wife. Her Highness, Princess Naya.” Lord Oscar replied.

“Lord Oscar. How do I or anyone know that you aren't just saying all of this to save your own skin?” Shanelle asked.

“Because I would have everything to lose, my Queen.” Lord Oscar replied.

“What do you mean?” Shanelle asked.

“When Lord Tariq died, Her Highness inherited the duchy. She begged me to change the cause of death. Said that she would lose everything if his true cause of death came out. And initially, I declined to do so, but she said that if she lost everything then she’d make sure that I would lose everything. I couldn't put my family through that. So I went ahead and changed the cause of death.” Lord Oscar replied.

“What were you saying about this being a gift for the defense?” Shanelle asked her husband.

“Thank you for your time, Lord Oscar. You will return the day after tomorrow for the defense to question you as well.” Marquise said to him.

Lord Oscar bowed before taking his seat amongst those in attendance. Shanelle was thankful his testimony took two hours because she was starting to get hungry.

“Think we can break for lunch now?” she whispered to her husband. “These munchkins are trying to tell me something.”

“Very well,” he whispered back before addressing the room, “we will take this time to break for a 90-minute lunch. Giancarlo, I expect your next witness at the break’s end.”

“Yes, my King,” Giancarlo replied with a head bow.

Marquise helped his wife out of her seat before they made their way out of the courtroom. As they walked, Marquise shot off a text to have lunch brought to them. They walked to a sitting room with French doors that led out to a small garden.

“Are you comfortable, my love?” Marquise asked his wife.

“Yes. This couch is doing wonders for my back. That chair is too hard.” she replied.

“I apologize. Even I forgot how hard those old seats are. I'll have a cushion put in yours so you'll be a little more comfortable as the trial goes on.”

“Thank you, baby. So when does this trial adjourn?” she asked.

“4:00 pm every day. I'm not about to spend all day staring at Naya shed crocodile tears,” he replied.

Shanelle snickered.

“You are so mean sir.”

He shrugged.

“If you say so. Now how are you feeling? Anything sore?” he asked.

“No, but I think it's a good idea that I put my feet up,” she replied.

Marquise tapped the inside of his right thigh so she could rest her feet on his lap. It made Shanelle giggle when he took off her flats and started to massage her feet.

“You and your foot fetish.” she giggled.

“Look, you have your kinks and I have mine,” he said before kissing the sole of her right foot. “I don't judge you so don't judge me.”

“You are so grumpy! Wait until I tell your daughter how you've been visiting the planet of Grumpola again.”

Marquise rolled his eyes with a smirk. He found the pressure point on her foot and kneaded a circle into it disarming her.

“Oooh!” she cooed.

He watched her squirm in delight before he stopped, causing her to pout.

“Nooooooo!” she whined.

“If you want more of that you'll keep your mouth shut and not tell my daughter anything. Understand?” he asked.

“Yes, Grumpy Bear,” she replied.

“That's Mr. Grumpy Bear to you.”

This was a side of him that she loved. Many have often assumed that because of his calm nonchalant nature, Marquise is soft. But Shanelle knows better than anyone that that's never been the case.

He is just as dominant as she is. He's just not outwardly open about it as she is. He has always preferred to be the quiet yet firm and unrelenting type. He always has to keep his emotions in check. And she appreciates that about her husband. It's always what makes him so sexy to her.

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