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ashleyswrittenwords · 5 years

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How To Be A Queen [Part 11]

Note: Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhh. I said no cliff hangers. I’m a liar. Also wtf this surpassed 40k words. It’s 85 pages long on my word doc. How in the hell.

Summary: Princess Zelda is at a loss. Her handed royal responsibilities have begun to weigh heavily on her and she is eventually backed into a corner. Live a life she loathes or run away from everything she’s ever known? Navigating life is hard, and Link forces her to learn that she doesn’t have to do it alone.

Warning: Cussing. Like big boy words.

Part 1

How To Be A Queen

The few days before the festival flew by. Mrs. Harper had barely finished our gowns on top of the many last-minute requests from other Hateno residents. Anju and I were enlisted at times along to help with sewing. It was hectic, but I loved it. Nothing was expected of me other than my occasional assistance. Over the duration of this time, I had rarely bumped into Link. When I did, he asked what I was up to and was off again as quick as he came. Every now and again, I’d notice him hanging off to the side with that same group of men helping with putting together decorations or stalls for the festival. Sometimes talking with Aryll, other times being pushed away by her.

A boy ran across the courtyard in hot pursuit of a rooster while two other children trailed behind in fits of light laughter. The sun had long since set and a myriad of lanterns were lit around the village. Jovial music played from a makeshift band of young and old musicians alike. Some drifted off to join other festivities while others jumped in to fill the gap. The musicians hooted and hollered louder than their own instruments at times. The music never lost its beat and had been playing boisterously since early evening. I had never heard the likes of the tunes they played, but I could tell it could get the most sober man to clap along.

Which, incidentally, was what I was doing near the edge of the crowd. Sharla Harper had just parted from me to join the dancing throngs of people after our idle witnessing of her husband playing the violin with aggressive enthusiasm. Admittedly, I had turned down a dance with her and chose to become a sort of wallflower instead.

A thin-stemmed glass was pushed into my hands and Malon came into view. Her cheeks were red from alcohol and a smile brimmed her cheeks as she spoke, “Drink! We won’t be able to get free booze like this until Spring.”

“And without the judgement to boot,” I said, trying to match her enthusiasm and stole a glance around us. It seemed like everyone and their grandmother was taking part in the festival’s pleasantries. Not that I was expecting a castle ball’s scrutiny, but this was a completely different world after all. People were laughing, singing, dancing, and I was under the impression that they truly wanted to be here with their loved ones to celebrate another successful harvest season. I was out of my realm and I was loving it.

“You look like you’re having an amazing time and you haven’t even done anything yet,” Malon said, bringing me out of my thoughts. I shrugged and touched the glass to my lips, suddenly realizing I was beaming at nothing in particular.

“Have you seen him?” Her grin was almost devious and I took a small sip of the sparkling ricewine. It smelled vaguely of roses and the color was a matching light pink. “Who are you talking about?” I asked absently, my eyes were drawn to the band before meeting hers.

“Oh, don’t play coy. You know who I mean,” Malon’s voice was lowered as if anyone was eavesdropping.

I wrapped my arms around myself, the glass held lightly in my right hand. I spun a little, feeling my gown twist around my legs. I felt light and appreciate that the only layers needed was a bodice and a white slip. I admired how my drink wasn’t far off from the color of my dress and shook my head, “He probably doesn’t want to look after me all the time. It’s not a big deal.”

“Not a big deal?” The woman looked frustrated, “He’s missing out on the most beautiful woman in Hateno and it’s not a big deal?”

I laughed and rolled my head back to look at the sky, “You’re being ridiculous or are you talking about yourself? Because the latter would make sense.” The stars were glistening, not a cloud in the sky. It was like the goddesses blessed the night and were watching from above.

“I’m serious,” Her words were drawn out and she gripped her own glass tightly, “You look hot tonight.” I hid my smile behind the drink. “Thank you, love. You look gorgeous tonight too.”

There were a few men that hung around us. They stole looks at us and I felt bashful. I did feel confident in how I presented myself though. The gown Mrs. Harper had sewn together was perfect. The gown’s neckline heart shaped and was drawn tightly around my waist before flowing in an A-Line skirt. A thick lacy white ribbon was wrapped around my middle and a grey shawl was wrapped around my shoulders and tucked underneath my arms. It was very effective in keeping out the cold, but I dared not to stray far from fire pits that were littered throughout the square.

My shoulders loosened and I quickly realized I had downed the wine as I listened to Malon’s rambling. She gasped and took it from me, mumbling, “We need more drink.”

“Hm?”

“We need more drink!” She said quite a bit louder and turned. I lost her in the crowd and didn’t bother following.

Alone again, I turned my attention to the music and the dancers. They twirled and the partners parted to make lines, then moving through to find their partners again. The ladies bunched their skirts in one hand, laughing and stomping to the beat. I felt a hand on my shoulder and I jumped.

I looked over my shoulder and expected Malon but found Link squeezing between a couple. His hair hung partially in his eyes from navigating through the crowd, then he looked at me completely and I felt like my world stopped. The space around us seemed quieter than before and all I wanted to do was hear what he wanted to say. The air felt suddenly so warm that I was almost wanting to take my shawl off.

He had opened his mouth speak but seemed to forget his words. Instead he looked at the band. So, I did too. Occasionally, I looked over to see if he would finally say something – anything. He wore a nice white long-sleeved shirt and he smelled like mead. It could have been anyone that smelled like that around us, but I supposed since we were standing so close it had to be him.

“Hey,” he finally said. Link wasn’t really making eye contact.

For whatever reason I started laughing. Something about the prolonged silence and the sudden greeting tickled me. I didn’t doubt it was the ricewine from before that helped fuel it. Link finally looked fully at me and a flash of confusion ran across his features. Then, he was laughing too.

“Hello Link,” I managed to say between giggles. He was just softly smiling now, not nearly as troubled as before and watched as I calmed myself down. “I’m sorry, Malon forced a drink onto me before you got here.”

“She forced you to drink?” Link asked, sounding worried. His eyes flicked to the faces behind me, as if looking for her.

“Oh no. No, no,” I put a hand up, “I was more than happy to oblige. She just put it in my hands.”

He seemed relieved and then grabbed my hand that I had somehow put on his chest. I don’t remember doing that.

“Do you want to dance?” He lightly rubbed the top of my hand with his thumb as if it was a natural thing to do. As if he’d done it before.

“I,” I had no idea what to say. “Yes,” I said, my heart beating quickly as I glanced at where the music was playing and back to him. His smile reached his eyes and I panicked, “I-I mean no.” My eyes grew wide as I realized what I had said, “I mean yes! But!”

At this point I’m sure I looked redder than the tomato pin cushion Anju’s mum uses.

“I don’t know how to dance!” I said quickly in a horrible attempt to recover. I must have looked like a bumbling idiot.

“You knew how to dance the last time,” he said plainly. “Zel, are you sure you want to? We don’t have to.”

“Yes!” I had the itch to fiddle with my hands, but he was still holding one of them. Why was I so nervous? It was Link. It was only Link. “Ballroom dancing is all I can do. Usually it’s only 1-2-3-4 1-2-3-4… but this is not ballroom dancing and I’ll look-“

“You’ll look beautiful.”

I stopped talking. Feeling that feeling in my chest bubble up again. I felt inexplicably happy. So happy, in fact, that my brain forgot to spit out words for me to say. He thinks I’m beautiful?

“And,” Link continued, shrugging his shoulders, “I’ll only dance with you. So, if you don’t want to, we’re both missing out.”

“That’s evil.”

Link nodded knowingly, “I know, but it has to be done.”

“I don’t know the steps.”

“There really aren’t any steps. Just follow what everyone else is doing,” he said, tugging on my hand. “If it makes you feel any better, it’s gotten to the part of the night where everyone’s too drunk to care.”

I raised an eyebrow, “How do you know the right things to say all the time?”

That toothy smile was back, “Trust me, it’s pure luck.”

He led us out of the audience. The music was even louder here and somehow someone snuck a drum into the group of already noisy instruments. I gathered my skirts in one hand like many of the other women and somewhere along the way either Link had let go of me or we were forced apart. Now I was sandwiched between two rather large women. I copied the swaying motions and found myself doing rather well. One of the women nearly tripped and the other started cackling. There was a weird box step and the group moved forward as someone on a fiddle played vivaciously.

I noticed we had separated into lines with lines of men and boys themselves moving between and finding their partners. Rather inelegantly a smaller boy bumped into me but held out his hands. I paused, confused, but crouched down and offered my own. His little fingers interlocked with mine and we did a small circle swaying dance. I laughed at his pink face.

“You’re a rather good dancer,” I said.

He looked at me in surprise but put on a brave face. “Thanks. Mum says so too.”

I looked up to see Link with one of the women before with an expression not too different from my dance partner’s. His eyes caught mine and I tried hiding my laughter. Link mouthed something and I shook my head, not understanding. A beat went by and partners separated and reconjoined. Link closed the gap between us and didn’t hesitate to interlock his fingers with mine.

“Hey,” he said again.

My lips twitched upward, “Hello Link.”

“I see you found someone else to dance with.”

“Oh, yes. He was so charming. He stole my heart and left just as quick. Didn’t even catch his name,” I sighed wistfully. The couples moved to form a large circle with another group making another inner circle. We happened to end up on the inside.

“Really?” He asked with a surprised voice, “I’m so honored to know that the next king of Hyrule hailes from Hateno.”

I studied his face. The shape of his eyes, the small scar on his cheek, the way his smile started out lopsided before evening out on his cheeks. I nodded slowly. “Wouldn’t that be something?”

He spun me around and I pursed my lips, “I don’t want a king, though.”

“No? What do you want then?”

I shrugged with a smile, “I don’t know. Kings are awfully boring. Instead, I want someone who can make me laugh and smile.” I thought for a moment, then nodded, “Yes, that sounds about right.”

He hummed, “So, a court jester.”

“Exactly. A dreamy court jester.”

Link laughed at my expression and we were pulled apart again. The cold air replaced where his warm hands were, and the same sequence of dancing went on. After what seemed like forever, I had snuck from the dance and into the chattering audience once more. I hadn’t seen Link in quite some time, so I assumed he couldn’t find me on time to make a convenient exit together. It hadn’t bothered me and I found Anju and Aryll by a food stall.

Aryll noticed me first and pointed me out to Anju with her meat kabob, “Lookie here!”

Anju lit up when she saw me, making me smile back. “Do you want some?” I agreed and she gave me her half of the stick. “I’m full anyway.”

I thanked her and hung on the side, vaguely listening to their conversations as I watched people pass.

“Does he dance good,” Aryll said with a mouth full of steak.

I nodded bashfully, not bothering to ask how she knew. “He can waltz well too,” I said, pulling a roasted carrot off and popping it into my mouth.

Aryll blanked, “Pardon?”

Anju giggled, “Are you serious?”

“Mmhm,” I swallowed, “During the winter solstice ball.”

Aryll started choking and Anju laughed loudly, trying to smack her friend’s back in a lame attempt to help. “Oh-Oh my. Get him. I want to hear more. A first-hand account by the man himself,” Anju waved me off, keeling over at Aryll’s expression.

I walked around aimlessly for a moment and found a stray waste bin for the now empty stick. In all honesty, I had no idea where to find him. He had just narrowly found me before but looking at all the people it felt like searching for a needle in a haystack. There was no way everyone was from this little town and from what I overheard I was mostly right. Many people came from more rural outskirts.

My eye caught someone walking out of the square. It looked like Mac, one of the first people we had seen upon coming to Hateno and he seemed close to Link. So, I made up my mind to follow him.

“I’m sorry,” a man cut into my path and I stopped. “Do I know you?”

I squinted in the faint light of a lamp. He was a middle-aged gentleman with graying hair, but I didn’t recognize him. His smile was sweet and gentle, as if he already knew the answer. I shook my head, “No, sir. I don’t recall. I hope you find the person you’re looking for.”

His smile widened, “My deepest apologies.”

I looked at him questionably and he moved slightly to the side, giving me allowance to move past. I felt scrutinized and looked at my feet as I left. Strange. Nevertheless, I saw Mac just barely disappear around a corner and I followed. It was quieter here other than the soft chatter of standoffish groups. Some merchants hung around; others began packing up. I suppose it was that time of night. I hugged my shawl closer and felt unsure.

Mac didn’t move fast and he held two pints of mead - one for each hand. He turned another corner and Toma shouted his name.

“-you took so long I’m basically sobered up.”

“You are nowhere near sober. You can barely walk,” Mac grumbled and I heard a clanking of glass. I stopped just before rounding the corner with him. It felt weird to barge in, I didn’t know them like that. What was I going to say? That I stalked Mac to find them?

As I was thinking about excuses I heard Link say something mildly insulting to Toma and I thought Kafei’s laughter was a warning for a heart attack. He wheezed so bad he started coughing. “You sound like an old man,” Toma quipped, “You got asthma too.”

“Oof. That hurts, mate,” Kafei coughed again to clear his throat, “At least the ladies think this old man is sexy.”

“You have exactly one lady,” Link chimed in, laughing at his own joke.

“Um, one more than all of you!” He shouted, “Besides I have a multitude of women in several other regions. A platoon. You remember when I went to Gerudo Town?”

“Yeah. When you were ten.”

“I was an early bloomer.”

“Does Anju know that?” Mac’s voice disappeared into the pint.

“This conversation stays here and if anyone else knows you’re all dead,” Kafei shouted, again. Even if they didn’t tell, Anju was bound to overhear all the way in the square.

“I’d pay money to see you fight Link,” Toma snickered, “500 rupees right now.”

“Link is a fucking knight.”

Link snorted, “I’ll let you beat me if you split it.”

“With how competitive you are? I don’t want to die young.”

“You’re already old.”

“I’m only two years older than you, fucker.”

There was a wide array of bickering between Toma and Kafei. I rehearsed my excuse in my head, ‘Oh, no. I’m lost! Wait, friends? Thank heavens I found you all. I was just so lost. Aryll wanted to talk to you, Link.’ Okay, no, that won’t work. That sounds worse than stalking one of them.

“Besides Link already has a girl,” Kafei said, “We’re obsolete, boys.”

“Shut up,” I could barely hear Link. I swallowed thickly, thinking about just walking away, but I’m sure they would hear a pair of heels on the stone. Perhaps I can take them off.

“Who? Blondie?” Toma asked.

“That one girl,” Kafei asked. There was a bout of silence. “Selma.”

“What? That’s not even close to her name,” Link chuckled. Toma began laughing unnecessarily loud.

“Zelda!” Toma shouted, “Her name is Zelda. I remember. She’s cute. I almost bedded her.” His words started slurring. Someone probably hit him because there was a light “Ow” that followed.

“She’s not mine, believe me,” Link said.

“What’s the color of her eyes?”

“Green,” he didn’t even miss a beat.

“You’re basically married,” Kafei clapped his hands together. “Congratulations.” I stared at my shoes and felt my face flush. I wasn’t supposed to be here. My hands felt sweaty. I should slip away.

Link didn’t say anything for a long moment. “Trust me, that will never happen.”

Kafei made a noise, “Why not? Why else would you bring someone like that here?”

“Her dad-“

“Yeah, I get it. Her dad paid you. But you could have taken her anywhere. Rito Village and see the aurora borealis, the tops of Mount Lanayru, the warmth of the Gerudo. Anywhere in Hyrule. But you took her here. I’m assuming this girl comes from money and she could have gotten a whole party of people to accompany her just like how every rich person does. But it’s just you. So, what’s the catch?” Kafei quieted down. I pulled at my fingers, feeling overly nervous.

“It doesn’t matter,” He sounded frustrated. I could imagine that he was doing that tick where he ran a hand through his hair and lightly pulled at it as he did. Link sounded annoyed and for whatever reason it upset me. “She’s just immature and wanted to do something her parents wouldn’t allow. I was a convenient solution. She doesn’t mean anything to me, not like that. Lay off, alright? It’s fucking annoying.”

My blood ran cold. What?

“You don’t mean that. You know that I know you don’t,” Now Kafei had raised his own voice, “It’s bullshit.”

“It’s just a job. Nothing more. I’m literally just walking her from place to place and getting money from it. Easiest gig I’ve had in 5 years. Are you happy?”

There was silence other than a sniffle. I quickly went to hold my nose.

“What was that?” I heard Link say.

Toma cleared his throat, “I’m sorry I think I had too much of your aunt’s chili.”

“Are you kidding me, Toma? I swear I should beat your ass,” Kafei said. The bickering continued and I took it as my cue to leave. My heart felt heavy in my chest. ‘I should have expected this,’ I thought repeatedly.

Anju found me before I did her. She was smiling brightly until she saw my face. “Goodness, you look like you’ve seen a ghost.”

I knew I couldn’t smile to console her. “I think I’ll be off tonight instead.”

“Off?” She looked bewildered, “Off to where.”

“I’m not sure. Anywhere to be honest.”

She stared at me with concern filling her eyes and we later walked wordlessly back to her parents’ residence. They themselves were still at the festival and I felt a pang of guilt for not thanking them properly. She offered me a bag and I packed what little I had. The focus was getting out of here. I had gold and the clothes on my back. Anju packed what food she could.

Anju stood in the doorway of my temporary bedroom with my traveling clothes now clean and folded, “I won’t convince you to reconsider nor will I ask what happened.”

She set the clothes down on the bed and took my hands in hers, “However, when you go can I please tell Link?”

“I’m not so sure,” I found it hard to keep my voice steady. I couldn’t decide if I was simply mad or disappointed or sad. Whatever it was weighed heavily and all I wanted was to leave.

She dropped her hands and I frowned, “I think it’s for the best that I go alone.”

“Do you truly believe that?”

“No, but I’m trying to.”

Anju stepped out and I changed. With the backpack strapped, I followed her out of the village. There were plenty of people leaving from the festival and we didn’t stick out. Once we reached the outskirts I turned to her, “Anju, it’s okay if you want to go back. I don’t expect you to be out here in the cold with me.”

“It’s just that I don’t want to leave you,” she was tearing up, making me do the same.

I embraced her, “I’ll be okay! And you should be okay too. You’re one of my closest friends and I wish nothing but happiness for you.”

“Be careful. Whatever he said or whatever he did… I’ll kill him if you want me to, Zelda.”

I laughed tearfully at her comment, “It’s fine, Anju.”

“No, it’s not! Obviously not.”

I shrugged my shoulders, “All he did was make it clear that he didn’t want to babysit me.” I cleared my throat, “And that’s fine.”

She wasn’t too convinced but relented. “I’ll miss you.”

We said some farewells and I made sure to have her do the same with Aryll and Malon. Then, we parted. I had produced a map from my coat pocket, found Hateno, and traced my finger to the Gerudo region. I’d have to back track quite a bit before reaching a new trading route, but I supposed it couldn’t be the worse of situations. I thought momentarily of going to the Spring of Wisdom, Mount Lanayru was right here, but decided that would be awful in the dead of winter. Gerudo region it was then.

I had been walking for a half hour or so. I took my time, there wasn’t anywhere I had to be immediately. No one to keep up with and no one to listen to. I frowned to myself, his stories weren’t that good anyway. In fact, they were boring and dumb. Tears pricked my eyes. They were very dumb. I hated the fact that his absence gave me no solace. I went into this whole idea of traveling with excitement for my independence and look where that has gotten me? I should be excited. Eager, even. I was just a job, huh? Well, he should be relieved that I left without him. Hell, maybe Link wanted me to leave.

The tune of the festival music was repeating in my head. He had a stupid smile too. And I lied to Aryll, he dances very badly. A tear escaped from my eyes, leaving a trail that the cold air clung to. I’m not crying. I am not crying. I hated the way he talked and the way he’d look at me. Even the way he looks. Why not just add that to the pile too? Amongst it all, the thing I most hated about Link Forester was how he refused to get out of my head.

“Where are we going?”

I screamed and my neck nearly snapped off with how fast I looked to my right. I nearly started bawling.

“Why did you leave?” Link Forester didn’t even want my answer to his initial question, not like it properly registered in the first place. I stopped in my tracks. Link was staring at me as if he was angry.

“How did you find out so fast? How did you-”

“Anju is a bad liar. Why did you leave without me?” Link had frustration written all over his face.

My tears had dried and were replaced with anger. “Don’t talk to me like that. If anyone should be angry, it should be me!”

He looked taken by my outburst. I was too, my bottom lip quivered and I started walking again. I didn’t want to face him right now. He said enough and I didn’t want to hear it again.

“Could you at least tell me why you’re angry?” He sounded defeated, tired and that in itself riled me up more.

“You’ve been dishonest with me!” I threw my hands up. It was obvious, was it not? “I’m immature! I mean nothing to you and I’m just a job.”

Link didn’t move to negate anything. Instead he just watched my emotions bubble over idly. I bit my lip hard to stop from outright crying. “I would be fine if you had told me upfront that you felt that way. I would have accepted it and we would move on like that. It’s not odd that someone deals with me just for money. I’m accustomed to it. I expect that.” I put a hand behind my head, trying to find my words before speaking again. Slower now, partly to myself, “I didn’t with you. I wanted desperately to believe that you hung around because you liked me. That may have been my own fault. I don’t know what I was thinking.”

He just kind of stood there and stared. He was still wearing the same clothes from earlier tonight, his shoes were changed into boots though and he had his sword strapped to him. He was refusing to look at me. I drew my attention away from him. Link’s silence only confirmed my feelings and I hated it. Something dawned on me and I drew in a breath. If he wanted Princess Zelda of Hyrule, he could have her.

“I want to remind you that you are no means tied to my agency,” I had found my voice. It was an odd feeling to speak to him like this. But it did make him look at me.

My eyes stayed on him and he seemed shocked as if it were news to him. It wasn’t anything untrue. I stood tall in my boots and tried to void any feelings I had for him. They didn’t matter, much less to him.

“What are you talking about?” Link said incredulously.

I breathed inward. I knew I didn’t want to say it. In reality, I didn’t want him to leave my side. He was a comforting constant that kept me situations caused by my own shortfalls… but for someone who didn’t want to be by my side by pure choice alone wasn’t right. Goddesses, I want to be selfish and tell him he can’t leave my side even if his life depended on it. I knew he’d do it. I resented myself.

“You’re bounded by orders, right?” My heart was in my throat. “In the beginning I told you that you didn’t have to come with me. My uncle may be general, but by birthright my words hold higher precedence than his.”

I paused to read his face. There wasn’t much difference, as if my words didn’t register. Link moved his head to the side, as if about to deny me.

Frustration built within me, “Look! All I’m saying is that you don’t have to be here! I may be your charge and you may be the captain of my guard, but I’m also the high princess. So…” I pursed my lips, struggling to find purchase on what I was trying to communicate, “So, you don’t have to follow me around and deal with – everything. You can go back to Hateno or go back to Castle Town if you want to. Tell my father I fell into the mouth of a crocodile, I don’t care. I’m sure he’ll be relieved.” My voice gave out and cracked, “I apologize for getting you wrapped up in my own desires. It was never my intention.”

“Zelda, you can’t-“

“I’m sorry, but I really don’t want to hear another lecture right now,” angry tears stung my eyes. I sounded completely outlandish, but Hylia knows I was in too deep. There was a painful truth in my ramblings, and the harsh reality in his eyes stared back at me. “Everyone I’ve ever met has expected something from me and it usually ends in disappointment. Save yourself the breath.” I couldn’t look at him anymore. Here we go. Oh, woe as me. I turned and started walking, halfway into a jog. You know, in one of my sappy romance novels in Castletown the girl had a similar outburst. Poured all her frustrations out and tried leaving. It happened several times, but he always stopped her. Got her to stay until they could figure something out. Something to patch up their issues.

But I wasn’t living a sappy romance novel. I let my emotions triumph my logic all the time and nothing good has come of it. It was pathetic and impractical to think that I would ever have something akin to that. No knight in shining armor reached out to stop me. For the first time in a while, I wasn’t followed either.

I wasn’t sure how much time went by. I did know how much I cried.

A lot.

Anju had snuck tissues into my bag and I’ve never been more grateful for a person. I didn’t look back after I left him and after an hour or so I did. He wasn’t there, unsurprisingly. I was tired and wrestled with stopping, but I knew if I walked through the night I could end up at the stable in the early morning hours and a soft bed sounded much nicer than the dirt.

I wasn’t too sure about the time. It was very late and it was silent other than the constant sound of my footsteps. I had hummed a long-forgotten song earlier. It was hard walking by yourself I found. It was colder too. I had my coat of course and it was formidable against the temperature. But it didn’t compare to a person.

Against everything that happened tonight, I missed him. What was with bad nights and celebrations? What an odd streak of bad luck.

My ears perked up to another sound. A steady tapping? I knew it wasn’t just my sound. My eyebrows creased and my heart beat faster.

“Leave me alone, Link.”

It continued.

“I told you before to leave me alone!”

Again, it continued and I whipped around.

It wasn’t Link.

Note: Hey beech. So that was spooky. Who is it? Idk. We’ll see, I’m so tired.

#loz #loz fanftction #htbaq #how to be a queen #link #zelda #zelink #fanfiction #fanfic #ashley writes #ashleyswrittenwords

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thewarriorandtheking · 5 years

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Fallout

For Prompt 13 of the Tale Teller’s 52-Week Writing Challenge:

“Look at me, dammit.”

This is the sequel to last week’s Temptation, for those of you who are following along. Time for Thorin to face the consequences of his actions in the garden...

52-Week Writing Challenge Masterlist

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Thorin Oakenshield stood at the edge of the grassy slope, beneath his feet a sheer wall of rock descended to the sea that spread out before him. There was a slight breeze blowing in, full of the smell of salt and distant shores, the waves crashing on the rocks below him. It was a beautiful fall day, crisp and clear, the sun warm on his face. Thorin thought to himself he had never been happier than he was at this moment.

Just a few moments ago he and Kaylea Wolf had been married, again. This time it was in front of her family, this time it was Thorin’s turn to learn an unfamiliar ceremony. The Dorsai ceremony was quite different from that of the Dwarves. On Dorsai each spoke their own vows. Thorin had found himself nearly overcome with emotion speaking of his love for Kaylea, as she stood before him. When it was her turn, he could hear the emotion in her voice, saw the tears well in her eyes as she set the ring on his finger. It was a moment he would remember the rest of his life.

Thorin heard a step and half-turned his head. Kaylea came up behind him and slid her arms around his waist, nibbling on his ear. He looked down putting his hands over hers, their wedding rings sparkled in the sun. He realized suddenly this was the moment he had seen in the Lady Galadriel’s mirror all those long years ago. Although he had been afraid to believe it at the time, the mirror had shown him the truth after all. He turned and took his wife in his arms, kissing her deeply. Even after all these years, there was almost nothing he enjoyed more than kissing his wife. The way she tasted, the feel of her body against his, the smell of her skin. Once he started he never wanted to stop.

After a long moment, Kaylea pulled back. “What are you doing out here, husband?”

“Thinking I am the happiest man on this planet, my wife,” Thorin replied, with a wide smile.

“We need to go in and mingle.”

Thorin pulled her closer. “Do we have to?” He whispered into her neck. “I can think of several other things I would rather do.”

Kaylea laughed, she ran her finger down his nose. “Rules.”

“Ah, yes. Rules,” Thorin rolled his eyes, then took her hand and they walked together back to the Graham keep. The reception was already in full swing, there was a smattering of applause as they walked in. Thorin went to fetch drinks as Kaylea moved among their guests. He leaned on the bar, watching her across the room. He did love that dress. She was wearing the same gown she had worn at her coronation in Erebor, it had been fabulously expensive and worth every penny. Made of pale blue silk and real gold and silver threads it sparkled like a gemstone and fit like a second skin. She was wearing the necklace with the large sapphires he had made for her, to match her ring. It nestled perfectly in the wide heart-shaped neckline; with her long earrings and jeweled circlet she looked every bit the Queen of Erebor. It was a very different look for her here in her homeland, normally when you saw Kaylea Wolf at a formal occasion on Dorsai she was wearing a dress uniform. Idly, Thorin wondered if that dress had a proper closure now, the last time she had been sewn into it and he had to cut the seam. That was a pleasant memory.

“Here you are, your majesty,” said the young Graham behind the bar, interrupting his reverie to hand him his drinks. Thorin turned around to find himself looking into a very familiar pair of green eyes.

He had seen Lady Sinclair at the ceremony, sitting near the front. Today she was wearing an even more spectacular necklace made with one of the rarest jewels in the Empire. The only other khyrstone Thorin had ever seen was worn by the Emperor’s daughter, and this one was a smaller but finer stone. She was wearing a tight-fitting rose-colored dress, though it was long-sleeved and floor length it somehow showed off her body just as effectively as the short one she had been wearing the previous day.

“Did he call you ‘your majesty’?” She raised her eyebrows, her lips curled into surprised smile. “There must be a story there.”

Thorin nodded, carefully not looking at her necklace. “In my own country I am a king.”

“Really?” She moved closer, Thorin stepped back but ran up against the bar. “If you are a king, then you can do whatever you want!”

Thorn shook his head. “I am afraid not. Kings are restrained by a great many rules, my lady.” He could smell her rich, exotic scent, impossible to ignore. “If you will excuse me.”

She leaned in, looking up at him coyly. “What do you think of this necklace? I thought of your interest in gems when I chose it.”

He glanced down quickly, then met her gaze. “It is exquisite, my lady.” And indeed it was. Khyrstones were prized for their inner fire, for Thorin they always brought to mind the fabled silmarils of the Elves. He wondered if even those famous gems contained the same light as this stone. He wanted to take a closer look, but he was more interested in getting away from her. “Now, if you will excuse me,” he said again.

“What’s your hurry, your majesty?” Siann asked, stepping in and laying her hand on his arm. She ran her fingers over the jewels sewn into the designs. “Mmmm…I like your coat.”

“My lady, I would like to deliver this drink before it gets warm,” Thorin said patiently. As hard as he tried, he could not keep himself from admiring her youthful beauty. She had so many qualities Dwarves prized in their women: petite, voluptuous figure, pale skin, spectacular jewelry.

Before Siann could reply, Kaylea was behind her, speaking into her ear. “Find yourself another toy, little girl,” her voice was full of venom.

Siann glanced at her, then back at Thorin with a smug smile, not moving her hand. “How’s your leg?”

Kaylea’s eyes narrowed, she leaned forward slightly. “Run along now, before you get hurt.”

Lady Sinclair turned to face her. “You would start a war with Clan Sinclair over a bit of fun?”

Kaylea stared at her coldly, it was a look that would make even a Kzin back down. “Try me.”

Siann shrugged, rolling her eyes as if unimpressed, but she had turned a shade paler. She moved off to join her kinsmen on the other side of the room. Kaylea watched her go, then turned her gaze on Thorin. “We need to talk.”

“Right now?” Thorin asked, but Kaylea was already headed across the room to the door in the corner that led to Ian Graham’s office. He took a deep breath and followed her, wondering if he had enough time to down both the drinks in his hands before he got there, and if it would even help. He certainly did not have a good excuse for his behavior the previous night, he still didn’t fully understand how it had even happened.

Kaylea shut the door behind him and Thorin put the drinks down on the desk before turning to face her. He had an odd flashback to the last time they had been in this room, explaining their love for one another to her lord. Ian’s office was all dark furniture and paneling, with a beautiful portrait of his late wife behind the desk. It had the air of a place not much used.

“So, tell me about your leg,” Kaylea asked in Khuzdul, which meant she was doubly serious. She stood in front of the wide desk, arms crossed over her chest. Thorin could see she was angry in the set of her jaw, the way she held her shoulders. All he could do now was tell his wife the truth and hope she forgave him. He took a deep breath and told her the story. The meeting in the garden, how he had felt somehow bewitched, the almost kiss. And how Vuko had intervened. They had not seen each other since the previous morning, but Kaylea had certainly noticed the stiffness in his leg, she missed nothing.

Kaylea was silent for a long time, looking at him expressionlessly. Thorin knew from past experience she was a master at controlling her emotions, it had taken him forever to puzzle out that she felt the same passion for him as he did for her. He wished she would show him some passion now. He almost wanted her to yell, rage and throw things. Instead, she stood in stony silence.

“This is the whole story?” She asked at last.

“Yes,” Thorin replied. He could not meet her eyes. “I am sorry, my love. I do not know what came over me.” He shook his head. “I have no excuse.”

She made no answer, instead turning her back and walking over to gaze out the tall windows. It was some time before she spoke. “I am disappointed, my king.”

Her anger he could face, her disappointment wounded him to his core. Thorin felt as if she had speared him in the chest and twisted the shaft. Quickly he crossed the room and knelt before her, bowing his head. “I have told you the whole truth,” he said. “Tell me what I must do to earn your forgiveness, my queen. I will swear any oath, do anything you wish.” He reached up to take her hand in his, but she seemed unmoved, still looking out the windows. At least look at me, dammit. Thorin thought to himself.

“You know what oath-taking means on Dorsai,” Kaylea said quietly. “When I disappointed you it cost me my braids. What will you give up for me?”

Thorin looked up at her, remembering that day. After he had questioned her loyalty she had cut off her braids that matched his to seal her oath that she would prove herself to him. It had been one of the worst days of his life, she was twisting that spear with a vengeance.

He bowed his head, speaking carefully. “If you ask for a finger, I will gladly give it. If your ask for my braids, you can have them.” He looked up just as she turned her head to look at him.

Kaylea regarded him silently for a long moment, then she dropped her eyes, smiling faintly. “I will have neither,” she said softly. “Siann Sinclair has…a reputation. I am well aware of the games she likes to play. But to be taken in by that girl, husband! I thought you were stronger.”

Thorin took a deep breath. That had really hurt, because she was right. He got to his feet, grasping her other hand. “And so I should have been. As I said, I have no excuse. Shall we call your weapons master?” Thorin was ready to face that round room with its center stone and waiting knife. If she needed him to swear, he would gladly give up a finger. He met her eyes, awaiting the verdict. He felt sudden stab of relief when he saw the rigid posture of her body just slightly relax. She reached up to put her hand on his beard.

“There will be no need for that, my king. I do not forgive you yet, but I understand. And though there was intent, all that passed between you was words – thanks to Vuko. Let us speak no more of it.”

“Your disappointment wounds me deeply, my love. What must I do for you to remove this spear from my chest? I would not have you leave it there.”

“Now you know my pain,” Kaylea replied. “When you told me you no longer trusted me, it was like a knife to my heart. It was years until you pulled it out.”

Thorin remembered when she handed him her braids and swore her oath. Afterwards she had gone on as if nothing had changed, he had not realized until now how hard it had been for her. Now he must bear her disapproval, and prove himself as strong as she was. “If that is your decision, I will not argue. I will do my best to earn your forgiveness,” he said. Feeling the discussion was at an end he picked up the untouched drinks. “I suppose we should go back to the party.”

Kaylea took a glass from him. “First, let us drink a toast,” she said with a soft smile. “To happily ever after.”

“Happily ever after,” Thorin clicked his glass to hers and drank. He could read her well enough to sense she had already come some distance toward forgiveness, she just wasn’t about to let him know yet. He reached around her waist and drew her close to kiss her. “Does this mean we will have a proper wedding night?”

Kaylea chuckled. “You wish. You will be sleeping alone for a week.”

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

Now I am thinking of writing a third part to this...can Thorin charm his way into her bedroom on their wedding night, or will Kaylea stand by her decision?

Read the complete adventures of The Warrior and The KIng on AO3 & FanFiction, links on my homepage. Books I & II also on Wattpad.

@sdavid09 @fizzyxcustard @soradragon

#tale teller's 52 week writing challenge #thorin and oc #thorin oakenshield #fanfic #writing challenge #fanfiction #true love

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lady-of-starlight · 7 years

Text

Let The Star Lead The Way - Chapter 10 - "I know you’re there...”

It’s time to celebrate: The harvest feast is upon you.

You stand in your chambers in front of a large mirror as Emlineth crouches behind you, tightening the lacings of your dress. Oddly enough, Erchiel, the elf lady you had met some time ago right after that perplexing training session with Thranduil, had volunteered to help to dress you up. Now she and Emlineth are fussing around you, pulling the folds of your flowing skirts and tying delicate gold chains and red ribbons around your arms and across your cleavage.

You take a shy look into the mirror: On paper, the idea of your gown had looked marvelous. Now you start to second-guess that idea, for it seems almost too bold. Indeed, as Emlineth had said before, everyone’s attention would surely be on you, but you aren’t so sure anymore if you want all of that. You had voiced your concerns when Emlineth had arrived earlier today, but she had passed your pleading objections, assuring that the gown was completely appropriate for the standards of the Woodland realm.

Is it though, you wonder and turn a bit to get a better look at the gown: It’s made of several pieces of flowing silk in all colors of autumn, the deepest, darkest shades of burgundy placed beneath the outer layers that look as fiery and red as the flames in the fireplace. The silk layers are very thin, as Emlineth had insisted for the fabrics to be light. The thin material clings to your body, embracing every curve - one can faintly see the outlines of your legs while walking as your thighs shift against the layers, proving the silks to the even more transparent than you had expected. Turning your hand, you eye at your arms, now covered with the small chains and ribbons that disappear under the billowing sleeves. Your shoulders stand bare with only a few ribbons crossing over them, their ends attached to the neckline of the bodice. The neckline itself isn’t very revealing, but considering the thickness of the material (or, rather, the lack of it), it still shows off quite a lot. You can’t deny the fact that you look absolutely breathtaking, as if the fierce colors were creating an aura of warmth around you. Emlineth is beyond excited, which is understandable - she has single-handedly sewn the whole gown, and has every right to feel proud of herself.

“Oh, the slippers! Don’t forget the slippers! Where are they?” She turns around, and then groans. “I must have left them in my room, please wait here, my lady”, she says and hastily runs to the corridor. You take a silver comb from your dressing table and start brushing your hair. You have decided to wear it down for the feast, as you like the way your new gown compliments the color of your hair, making it appear even more vibrant than usually.

“My lady, may I offer you a small gift?” You turn around. Erchiel approaches you, with something glimmering in her hands.

“For me? Oh, you shouldn’t have...” She stretches out her hand, giving you a necklace etched with both gold and silver, with small diamonds decorating the center of a...

“Star”, you whisper. The patterns carved around the diamonds show tinier stars that, together, form the biggest one. You watch, amazed, how the light reflects from the diamonds, making the whole piece sparkle like a real star on the night sky. “Thank you, it’s wonderful.”

“We weren’t sure if your outfit actually needed any necklace to go with it, but I saw this one lying abandoned and thought it would be the perfect one for you.”

She helps you to fasten it - the chain is slightly too long, leaving the pendant hidden under the layers of lace at the neckline of your bodice, but you do not feel bothered by it. The weight of the pendant on your chest feels comfortable and you place a hand over it, wondering how it already feels warm against your skin.

The sound of footsteps comes from the corridor and Emlineth rushes back into the room with a pair of slippers, their color matching your gown perfectly. She is also carrying a delicate lace mask, decorated with wine-colored stones and small feathers. “It is a masquerade after all”, she explains cheerily while helping you to put it on. “The greatest feast of the year, as the harvest ends and winter is ready to arrive. It’s our way to offer our respects for the seasons that have passed and prepare for the darkest time of the year, while waiting for the light of spring to be brought back to us once more.”

You find it interesting that in the Woodland realm, the harvest feast is the biggest celebration of the year - in Lothlòrien it had always been the spring feast, when the light of the sun returns as a sign of winter finally being over. Then again, the season of darkness lasts longer in this part of Ennor, the days being very short in the middle of winter, offering very little light. No wonder if they want to throw a good party before it.

A sound of a horn echoes through the realm, and Emlineth jumps. “Oh my, is it this late already?! I must go get myself ready - my lady, I trust you to find your way to the feast on your own?”

“Of course, please go, I wouldn’t want you to be late”, you smile and urge her to hurry up. As the other elven ladies leave the room, you take a last glance in the mirror, then throw your hair over your shoulder and turn to the doors.

I am ready.

✽ ✽ ✽

You make your way towards the ballroom through the dim corridors and passageways. There is just barely enough light to see where you are heading, as none of the bigger lanterns have been lit and the only source of light comes from some small candles placed here and there. You pass a few other elves, but you can’t recognize any of them because of the darkness and the masks they’re wearing. Something in your mind is telling you that it is exactly the purpose of the whole thing: Tonight, every elf in the realm shall remain faceless and freed from their identity, allowing them to become whatever they wish to be, if only for a few hours.

As you near the ballroom, the sounds of laughter and drunken joy grow stronger, echoing from the walls. Once you peek from behind the corner, your jaw drops. The ballroom had looked marvellous on the first time you had been there, but now that it is decorated and filled with celebrants, it takes your breath away. It is just as dimly lit as the rest of the realm: the tiny candles placed around all the statues flicker and reflect their light from the moving participants, casting shadows on the walls and leaving the edges of the room filled with soft darkness. The vines climbing up the walls and around the statues have changed color to fit the season of autumn, paired with heavy brocade tapestries that show different images: One displays a forest scenery with a bonfire in the middle and elves dancing around it, while the other shows a pair of elves clad and masked similarly to the real-life elves now flooding the dance floor. Everyone seems to be taken away by the fun, and you decide it is time for you to step in as well.

You straighten your back and walk down the stairs, holding the railing gently with your fingertips, barely grazing it. Once you reach the bottom of the stairs, you notice the looks directed at you by some of the elves, their joyful laughters silenced for a moment when they eye at you from behind their goblets of wine. You feel flushed under their heated gazes, when their eyes travel up and down your body.

You make your way along the edges of the room, watching the pairs dancing in the middle. Many of the costumes present an animal theme: You spot one lady with a swan mask and feather-covered dress dancing with someone that appears to be dressed as a fox, and you could swear you see a bear disappearing through the balcony doors.

Behind one of the statues, you notice two elves leaning against the wall, not participating in the feast. Despite the masks that are supposed to hide their identities, it’s not difficult for you to recognize Edraith and Tharon, as they are the only ones in the room that appear slightly lost. You chuckle and pick up your pace, as you walk towards them.

“Considering the amount of work you two have done in the past weeks, one would expect you to have earned yourselves the permission to celebrate a bit?” you speak when arriving to them. Both turn to look at you, and it takes a second before they register who stands before them. Once the realization hits, they falter a bit, seemly not knowing where to look at.

“Wha-- what did they do to you?” Edraith manages to speak, unable to hide the appreciation in his voice.

“What do you mean?” You ask innocently, giving them a swirl in your gown, paired with a little smile playing on your lips. “I rather like this, don’t you?”

“Oh, I’m sure you’re not the only one who likes it”, Tharon mumbles under his breath, and quickly clears his throat. You laugh merrily and do another swirl, before stopping and asking them: “You look quite out of place, what’s with the distressed looks on your faces?”

Tharon and Edraith share a look, before Tharon answers: “It’s just... We are not used to this kind of feasts. Not like we wouldn’t have attended any in the past, but all this appears to be so... Shameless”, he glances at the dance floor, and you follow his gaze to see what he means: Indeed, there is a couple dancing so close to each other you wonder how they even manage to move, their hands curled around each other in a rather questionable manner, something one would not see happening in the feasts of Lothlòrien: The male elf has placed his hands on his partner’s hips and thighs, while his companion slowly wraps her fingers around the edges of his collar, drawing him closer. You blush, while a familiar heat sweeps up your thighs and makes you shiver.

“I guess it is their way, their habits are a bit different after all”, you remind them.

“Yes, but... Going that far? Should I go and remind them there are surely some more private areas where to display such moves?” Tharon sounds almost mortified by the mere idea.

“Nonsense, leave them be”, you laugh and turn away, as the sight is doing some weird things to you, awakening an aching need that spreads through your body.

You fall silent, trying to distract yourself by curiously looking at everything around you: The tables on the far end of the room are filled with finest sweets and fruits. And wine, lots of wine, served from fine silver goblets that seem to disappear from the table at an accelerating speed.

“Dance with me”, you plead after some time from the two elves still standing next to you. “It’s been such a long time since I have been able to dance. Please.”

Tharon and Edraith look at each other again, and then Edraith stands forth, offering his hand to you. “With pleasure.”

He leads you to the dance floor, just when a new song is about to start. It is a familiar tune you have heard before, and you hope you still remember the steps for the dance. Some of the dancers appear to be so drunk though that no one would probably care about a few slips in the choreography.

Edraith takes your waist and joins the moving crowd. “It’s been a while since I have danced, too”, he admits, yet his steps never falter when you pass the other couples.

“Together in trouble, then”, you laugh. For a second, a weird sensation passes over you, as if you’re being watched, but it fades quickly when some other elf approaches you from the corner of your vision, taking your hand while Edraith lets go and takes the hand of an elf lady standing behind you, disappearing in the crowd. You had forgotten that this dance includes changing partners, but gather yourself quickly and follow your new partner as he takes you deeper into the mass of swirling gowns and hearty laughter.

You’re lost in the dance, barely aware of the changing elves that spin you around, with their appreciative whispers grazing your ears, when at the last partner switch you’re snapped awake from your trance-like state: This new partner holds you tighter and much closer than any of the ones before him. Granted, many of the previous elves had been drunk, but they had still been acting like gentlemen, safe for sharing some suggestive words. This person, however, is nothing of the sorts: The minute his hands find yours, he draws you flush against him and places his arm tightly against your lower back, locking you in place while pressing your bodies together.

“I-- I’m sorry,” you stutter as you suddenly feel flushed all over, “I would prefer to not to stand so close--”

An amused chuckle. “Would you really?”

Your partner’s voice finds your ears, and sends a jolt down your body. You know that voice. Raising your head, you meet the eyes that are fixated on you. The mask does little to hide the piercing blue color of them, as they glint in the dim lighting.

You gasp for breath. “You-- Your Highness--!”

“Shh.” Thranduil presses one finger against your lips, silencing you. “I believe we are past the formalities by now, are we not? Besides, tonight I am but one of the common folk, no titles to be held at value here.”

“I didn’t believe we would be even at speaking terms”, you say, trying to ignore the warmth of his fingers that hold your hand as you reluctantly hold on to his shoulder with the other. He is dressed in a long jacket, the color shifting from gold to silver with every move, paired with a mask woven of small twigs in the form of tiny horns. He isn’t wearing any of his royal jewels tonight, yet you suspect that at least some of the elves would surely recognize him nevertheless. His regal aura is prominent, even when shielded with a costume and a mask.

“And why is that, if I may ask? Did our little... incident scare you that much?”

You blush at his words, but also feel anger building inside your chest. “You ignoring me didn’t have anything to do in the matter, or?”

He looks confused. “Ignoring you? I would beg to differ, as you have been effectively trying to escape from me in every turn after that one time in the High chambers.”

You are baffled. “I beg your pardon? You were the one to not show up the next day, or the next days, at that.” You try to pull away from him, but he doesn’t allow it, as he keeps his arm locked around you and suddenly looks angry.

“Did you not receive my message?! I couldn’t be there for your training for a few days, as I was forced to arrange meetings with the council and discuss the safety strategies. The kingdom doesn’t run on its own without a leader, as you’re well aware.”

“What message?” Your mouth goes dry. “I received no such thing.”

“I sent a note to be delivered to your chambers, telling about the time change. Am I to understand it never reached you?”

“No”, you reply, your heart starting to race. If he wasn’t avoiding you after all... Now you understand why he looked so angry the other day in the woods, when you had exchanged looks with him after a long time of not seeing each other. He must’ve thought you had thrown his offer of teaching you straight back on his face, when you hadn’t appeared. And one does no such thing, not to a king like him.

“Well, that explains quite a few things”, He says with a bitter tone.

“Oh, is your pride hurt?”, you tease, but then go serious. “I assure you, it was not my intention. I had no idea that there had been any changes, it appears we have both been blaming each other in this.”

He must see the honesty in your eyes, as he replies after a while: “So it would seem. The next question, however, is how we are to proceed from here.”

Your head spins and makes it hard to follow the steps of the dance, but Thranduil leads you firmly and with ease, until the music stops and the dance ends. He lets go of you as claps and cheerful shouts fill the air, and leads you to the tables covered with food and drink.

“Wine?” He asks, offering you a goblet. You take it, despite your hands shaking so badly that you’re afraid of dropping the whole thing. He picks up another goblet and leads you to the less crowded area in the shadows. You try to start a conversation:

“So, um... You seem to have planned this feast for a long time, I heard it’s one of the greatest in your realm?”

“And one of the wildest”, he replies suggestively, his eyes meeting yours over his drink as he takes a sip.

“How so?” you blurt out. He chuckles and moves closer, forcing you to back against the wall behind you, as he leans over you.

“Let’s just say that... Things tend to get very heated in a feast like this”, he teases, clearly finding your bewilderment entertaining. Not knowing what to say, you take a huge gulp of wine and almost start coughing, amusing him further.

“Try not to choke, little one. Though, I would be more than happy to offer you some assistance in the form of mouth-to-mouth resuscitation if needed.” You blush crimson at his words and slap his arm.

“I am not choking, don’t get ahead of yourself!”

His laughter vibrates in the air around you. Then the current dance ends, and people start to gather up for the next one. Thranduil takes the goblet from your hands and takes it to a nearby table with his own, and returns to you. “May I have this dance?” He takes a bow, his eyes never leaving yours, while a smirk rises to his face, offering you a challenge. You take it.

“Of course”, you reply with a little smile and bend your knees for a graceful little curtsy, before extending your hand for him. He takes it, and once again you’re being swept away in a dance that has a quicker and more powerful tempo than the previous one.

“I have been thinking...” He starts, giving you a look. “Since it appears that we have a bone to pick, so to speak, and both seem to have an interest in challenges, may I suggest we play a little game?” His voice drops low at the word game, and you feel a delicious shiver running down your spine.

“And what would that be?” You ask and gasp as he bends you over his extended arm, dipping you backwards so that your head falls back, offering him a good glimpse of the skin on your neck before he sweeps you back up and swirls you around.

“Call it a game of hide-and-seek, if you will, with a little twist.” His grin deepens. “I will be the seeker. You can hide to any part of my realm, as long as you stay inside the gates. Should you manage to remain hidden from me until dawn, I shall offer you one thing you desire, anything within my power.”

You swallow. “And if you catch me before it?”

His grin grows almost malicious now. “I shall have whatever I desire, and you will offer it to me.” His hand that is flexed around your waist travels lower, grazing your hip and ending up on your thigh, grasping it tightly. Your breath catches in your throat, making you unable to resist him when his hand moves sideways, trying to find a gap between the folds of your silk skirt so he could get closer to your skin. His touch burns you through the flimsy material, as does the look in his eyes when they travel down your face and towards your cleavage.

“That is... a generous offer”, you whisper, trying to find your voice again. He lifts his eyebrow in return.

“Do we have a deal? An offer for an offer?”

You think about it for a minute, although your inner voice is practically screaming at you to take the chance. The excitement starts to bubble inside you, and before you know how to stop yourself, you answer: “Yes.”

At that, he bends down to kiss you, with his hands pressing against you shamelessly and without hesitation. Just as quickly, he releases you and whispers into your ear, while your knees are still wobbling from the kiss: “I will give you a head start, but do keep in mind... Once you leave this room, the game is on, and no power in the world will stop me from catching you.”

“Perhaps I manage to escape?”, you dare, staring him in the eye. He chuckles, not answering to that.

“I suggest you to take your leave, and quickly... Or would you like to surrender at once, here and now?”

You give out a laugh that apparently causes a reaction in him as his look grows darker, promising all kinds of things. You lean closer, and whisper against his lips:

“Never.”

Then, you push your hands against his chest, escaping from his arms and running through the crowd and up the stairs. You don’t stop before you’re at the doors, where you turn to look at the dance floor.

He isn’t there anymore.

You hear the echo of his words whispering in your mind: No power in the world will stop me from catching you.

Drawing breath, you turn your back to the room, lift your skirts and run.

- End of chapter 10 -

Ennor= Sindarin name for Middle-earth

Author’s notes: This chapter has been teasing me inside my head since the very beginning of this fanfic. Not to forget the next chapter - be prepared for some smut!

#Thranduil #thranduil x reader #lee pace #lotr fanfic #woodland realm #mirkwood #mirkwood elves #LOTR #the hobbit #tolkien fan fiction #tolkien #fanfic

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naughty-teddy-innit · 7 years

Text

Emily & Ed: Part 1 Forever and Ever…A Love Story.

Title: Ed and Emily - A Love Story Author: @naughty-teddy-innit Rating: PG- No smuts, brief sexy texts, making out

Enjoy, and comments, Asks, Feedback and Reblogs are LOVE! Xoxoxoxo

There are certain moments in my life that I will hold tight and keep just for me, memories that are indelibly inked on my heart. These memories, the building blocks of my soul, could never be adequately captured in a photograph or described in a journal, they exist only in me. They sneak up and trigger that waterfall of emotion that remind me why life is worth living. The first time those beautiful, soft, perfectly pink lips found mine. The first time his soft accented voice murmured the word “Forever”, and every single time after, because “I love you” was never enough. The day I had to say goodbye to my grandmother, when my heart was broken and the arms I needed around me, to keep me strong, were halfway across the world and when I thought I couldn’t feel more pain, he was there, his arms around me, holding me up. Christmas morning. Walking into the living room to the glow of the lights from the tree lighting his face like an angel, and the sight of him down on his knee, pure love in his eyes, and my grandmother’s ring in his hand. The smile on his face when I managed a “Yes!” through the tears. These moments are the ones that will stay with me, seared into my heart and spirit for as long as I live. Today, the one instance that tops them all, the one that will stay with me until my life leaves me, is the look in his eyes as I walked towards him, down that aisle, to become his wife.

From the moment we became engaged, we knew we wanted a wedding just for us, simple, with just our family and loved ones. The people we cherished the most. Ed’s heart lay in his hometown, it always had, and I knew when it came time for us to make those promises, that’s where we would do it. We chose the church where he first sang in the choir as a child for our ceremony, knowing that going back to where it all started was the perfect way to symbolize our new beginning. We debated where to have our celebration after the ceremony, a local B&B or maybe a hotel, but none felt right. One night, laying in the hammock overlooking his gorgeous property in Suffolk, with our cold beers in hand and a blanket wrapped around us, we realized what we’d been missing the whole time. We didn’t need a fancy hotel, we could bring our celebration to us, in the place where our new life was about to begin. From that moment on, every bit of our planning led to home.

All these months later, I couldn’t believe The Day was finally drawing so near. All week we’ve witnessed the transformation of this simple, yet stunning piece of land as it turned into our dream come true. A huge, beautiful marquee would be set up, in beautiful blues and silvers, with what would seem like thousands of wildflowers hung everywhere. Candles and lanterns would line the walkways and delicate fairy lights would line the roof of the tent and the trees that dotted the property. We didn’t want our guests to be separated, so we planned for only two single long tables set up on either side of the tent, with candles and creamy roses scattered throughout the table settings. Our sweetheart table was simple, festooned with daisies and tiny candles, and framed by the glow from the fairy lights. A classic, simple dance floor would be set up at the far end, with a small stage for the band, and in the opposite corner would be a full bar, a requirement for my hubby to be. It was going to be our dream English Garden celebration, and I couldn’t wait to see it all come together.

I opened my eyes this morning to the sound of rain, but I couldn’t have cared less. I rolled over in my bed, a smile plastered on my face as I caught sight of my dress hanging from the window, and the small velvet box on the dresser containing Ed’s ring. Today, he would officially, and legally, be forever mine, and I would be his. We would make our vows and exchange our rings, and our new life would start. I could not wait. I hopped out of my bed, thinking that it possibly was the first and only morning of my life that I wouldn’t need coffee! My family, of course, had flown in for the wedding, and we were staying at the hotel where Ed actually had his first job. Under any other circumstances I would have simply stayed with Ed in our flat in the city, but being the traditionalist I was, I had decided we would not stay together the week leading up to the wedding. Even worse for the poor boy, I had made the decision that sex was off the table for the month leading up to the wedding, wanting our wedding night to be memorable and special. Ed had NOT particularly been a fan of this turn of events, but despite many, MANY temptations, we’d managed to abstain. Barely. Just barely.

I had also insisted on maintaining the age old tradition of the groom not seeing the bride before the ceremony. Ed had always been one to treasure of every single moment; one of the things I loved most about him was how he always wore his heart on his sleeve. He’d talked many times about waiting for this moment his whole life long, and I was so ready to BE that moment. I wanted to see the emotion in his eyes, the expression on his face, as he saw me for the first time at the back of the church. He wasn’t the only one who’d been waiting his whole life, and I wanted to soak every bit of it in.

The hours leading up to the ceremony were a blur of waffles and mimosas, hair rollers and hairspray, and best of all, giggles and time with the ladies I loved the most. My younger sister was my maid of honour, and my childhood best friend, along with my 2 best girlfriends from college, were my bridesmaids. My hair was simple, I wore it half up, flowers pinned behind my ear, soft waves on my shoulder. I kept my makeup soft and natural, Ed had always said less was more, and had never been a fan of any kind of makeup at all. I had never much cared either way, so I went for the natural look, hoping it was enough to look pretty in our pictures. Hair done and face all pretty, it was time. I had been ready to step into my dress for weeks; I think I was in love with it as I was with Ed. From the moment we began planning the wedding I knew how I wanted to look walking down that aisle. Simple, traditional, classic, beautiful. I had tried on only 4 dresses, and from the second that first one slid up my body, I knew it was the one. Fitted to my body perfectly with a slight flair and with delicate, tiny, beaded cap sleeves, it was made of the most beautiful, intricate lace I had ever seen. The embellishment of the tiny cap sleeves was accented by the simple elegance of the illusion neckline, accented with the same lace that flowed over my dress. It fastened with tiny pearl buttons up the back, flowed into a sweep train, and in my eyes, defined simplicity and beauty. Initially, I had fought against a veil, thinking it would be far too much, and really, I wasn’t a bells and whistles sort of girl anyway. That all changed when my mother had managed to unearth the stunning, hand-sewn lace veil my grandmother had worn when she married my granddad. It was light and airy and edged in gorgeous antique lace with tiny pearl accents, and flowed to the perfect length to frame my dress. My mother had gently placed the veil on my head during my last fitting, adjusting the comb so that its cathedral length flowed around my body, and in that moment, I could feel my grandmother’s presence all around me. I knew she would be with me as I walked down that aisle, and there was nothing I wanted more.

Me: 2 hours to go and you’re all mine…thought maybe you’d like a little taste of what’s waiting for you later…xoxoxox…

Ed: Can’t wait till you’re MY WIFE. Also can’t wait get those fucking sexy panties OFF my wife…Fucking HELL.

Me: You’ll have to unbutton and unlace me first…

Ed: Jesus. Em, you’re the ONLY wedding gift I plan to unwrap tonight….

Me: It’ll be worth the wait. I promise…. See you at the altar, Teddy <3 xoxoxoxox

Ed: I’ll be the one in the monkey suit…probably trying not to cry. Forever and ever Love…

I let eyes my shut for a moment and let the enormous smile inside of me spread across my face. I loved this man so much. I wanted to call him husband and wear that ring and be his wife, I was READY. Well, except for the half naked part, though I’m sure Ed wouldn’t have minded. Time to put on the dress and become a wife! I wrapped a silky robe around me and hurried out of the bathroom, ready to step into my gown and get this show on the road. Our talented photographer arrived just in time to capture the getting-ready moments that I knew would be so lovely to look back on; the smiles and giggles, last minute jewelry and makeup touch-ups, and group hugs with the women I loved the most. I stepped into my dress, carefully sliding it up my body and guiding the tiny sleeves over my shoulders. My sister and mother fastened each button, while my best girlfriends helped secure my tiny teardrop earrings and pearl bracelet. My dress in place, I slid my feet into my comfy, specially bedazzled flats while my bridesmaids held my skirt. Heels and I did not have a good relationship, so this was my special treat on my special day, and I LOVED them. The veil would be placed in my hair once we arrived at church, simply because of its length and my not wanting to ruin it in the car. I swallowed, and with the help of my entourage, turned to face the mirror, ready to see myself as a bride. The reflection that stared back at me was everything I hoped to be on my wedding day. The dress clung to me perfectly and made me feel the most beautiful I’d ever felt. I didn’t feel overdone and gaudy, but rather natural and soft and stunning. I couldn’t wait for Ed to see me. The tear on my mother’s cheek and the looks on the faces that surrounded me…they spoke volumes. I was ready.

We took many photos, I wanted to capture every moment I could. We posed on the bed, by the window, all together and one-on-one. As we finished with photos, and began to gather our handbags and emergency supplies, we were interrupted by a knock at the door. My sister waved me aside as she ran to check who it was, not wanting anyone to see me who shouldn’t. The visitor turned out to be Ed’s older brother, and best man, Matthew. He had the sweetest smile on his face when he saw me, and in his soft voice commented on how Ed was the luckiest man in England today. That brought a blush to my cheeks and a smile to my face, and so I gently hugged him and thanked him. He was carrying a medium-sized, flat box, simply wrapped, with an envelope tucked under the silver ribbon. I felt a hand guide me to the chair by the breakfast table, and someone helped hold my skirt while I sat down. Matthew placed the package on the table beside me, and said simply “He wanted you to have this.” As he stepped back, I carefully untied the silver ribbon, and slipped the card from its envelope, steeling myself for what was written inside. I knew my fiancé better than anyone, and I was betting it was a good thing I was wearing waterproof mascara. I wasn’t wrong.

Em, My Love,

Everything I’ve done in my life has led to this day, and I can’t wait to share it, and every day after, with you. Every moment with you has been the best of my life, and I know it’s only going to get better with you by my side. I can’t wait to be your husband for all of our days.

Hurry up Wife, I’m waiting….

Forever and Ever Xo

Teddy

That man had the power to undo me in a heartbeat, and reading those words, had my heart nearly bursting. I looked to the ceiling, trying to hold back the tears that had sprung to my eyes.

I could barely comprehend how one man could complete me the way he did. I felt tissues being pressed into my hands, and heard the sound of my sister gasping that I’d smear my makeup, but in that moment I could have walked that aisle with raccoon eyes, and not cared a bit. I dabbed my eyes, and took a slow, shaky breath, replacing the card on the table. I reached for the package, carefully unwrapping the paper and seeing a simple white gift box. My fingers fumbled with the lid, eagerly trying to remove it so I could see inside, but in my eagerness it didn’t want to cooperate. My mom quickly helped lift the other end of the lid, allowing me to yank the whole thing off, and I tossed it to the side, dying to see what was underneath. My breath slowed and my eyes widened as my fingers found the soft leather cover of the photo album inside. I pushed the tissue paper aside and lifted it carefully from the box, setting it on the table. I could feel my eyes water as I took in the intricate detail embossed on the cover, and the gorgeous smell of the leather. I gently flipped it open, and the only words I could force from my mouth were Oh Teddy, as my eyes welled up. The first page contained the very first photo ever taken of us, a selfie of all things at mutual friend’s holiday party, ugly Christmas sweaters and all. He’d collected photos from our friends and family, combed through our personal collection; even printing snapshots from our phones. I even recognized a couple of photos as shots taken from various Instagram’s. My eyes couldn’t take them all in fast enough; as I continued to flip through the pages, the memories and feelings that came with each one almost overpowered me. Rosy cheeks on a ski vacation when I’d managed to wreck my ankle the second day. Our first New Year’s Eve together as a couple, silly hats on our heads, noisemakers in our mouths. Arms wrapped around each other, goofy grins on our faces at my college graduation. A sneaky shot of us fast sleep on an airplane, my head tucked in his neck, his face buried in my hair. My first (and only!) tattoo experience, the cookie monster on my foot, my hands clutching Ed’s as he tried not to laugh. An intimate selfie of us cuddled up in bed, me in my glasses and makeup free, both of us content and cuddled up in blankets. The two of us entwined under the Christmas tree, the lights reflecting in our eyes as I showed off my ring the morning we got engaged, my face wreathed in the biggest smile I’d ever seen. I noticed looking at it now, how Ed had eyes only for me, there was such love and tenderness on his face; it was like he didn’t even realize the camera was there. The gorgeous engagement photos we had taken on his property in the spring, the sun on our cheeks and the beautiful trees he’d planted in the background. So many precious moments captured, and he’d put them all together in this gorgeous book, and even dated and handwritten a caption under every single one. Our whole life together so far, my whole heart, wrapped up in a box. It was so beautiful, so thoughtful, so overwhelming that he’d put so much time and effort into this perfect gift. I couldn’t have been more in love with him than I was at that moment.

I gently closed the book, smoothing a hand over the cover before placing it back in the box. I looked at Matthew, and still trying to hold back tears, gave him a message for Ed. “It’s perfect. Utterly, completely perfect. I love it. Tell him I’m ready, and he better be waiting!” Matthew grinned, promising to pass on my message, and then politely showed himself out. I stood up from my chair and determinedly declared it was time to go, I was ready to marry my man. “I’m leaving with or without you”, I told them with a grin, and with a chorus of “Yes ma’am’s!” we gathered our bags and belongings and headed out.

I was extremely close with my mom, she was my best friend and most loyal supporter, and I was so thrilled to have had her by my side during this whole wedding planning process, but since the day I was born, I was, and always would be, a Daddy’s girl. He had insisted that he not be told a single detail about my dress, that he didn’t want to see a thing until I was ready to walk the down the aisle, and so he had stayed in the dark, until now. I knew he’d be waiting for me at the bottom of the gorgeous staircase that led down to the lobby of the hotel, and I couldn’t wait for his reaction. My bridesmaids went ahead of me, followed by my mother, and when I could see them along with my dad in position at the bottom, I began my descent. I hadn’t gone down 3 steps when I eyes locked with my daddy’s, and that was it. The pride and emotion was literally beaming from his eyes, and his mouth was open as if in awe. As I reached the bottom, he stepped forward and proffered his hand, assisting me down the last step, with the biggest smile I’d ever seen dancing on his face. He kissed my cheeks and twirled me around, his eyes crinkling as he took me in. He opened his mouth, trying to find the right words, and when nothing came out, that’s when I noticed his eyes were damp and he was struggling to keep it together. Oh my sweet Daddy. I kissed his bearded cheek and told him how debonair and handsome he looked, and that he’d better keep it together or we’d never make it down the aisle. He just grinned and shook his head, telling me I’d always been his voice of reason. He took my hand and we headed for the doors, ready to go to the church. Thankfully, any rain that had fallen that morning had disappeared, and the skies were now clearest blue. The sun was brilliant, its warmth enveloping me as we walked through the door, and I couldn’t help but bask in it, just for the briefest of moments. I hadn’t any idea how we were getting to the church, only that my dad had promised he’d get us there in style. He had refused to reveal anything more than that, so I was more than curious to see what awaited us outside. I gasped when I walked through the doors, seeing the sleek, snow white, vintage Bentley that was awaiting us at the curb. I could picture Princess Diana or Duchess Kate making their grand entrances from this gorgeous car. All I could do was clap my hands and let out a squeal when I saw it, it was just incredible. My mother and my dad helped me climb into the plush backseat, and arranged my skirt just so. I noticed a second, more modern Bentley pull up behind us, ready to chauffeur my mother, sister and best friends to the ceremony, right along with us. After he ensured that they were safely tucked away in their ride, my dad climbed into the backseat right beside me, motioning to the driver that we were ready to go. It was only a short drive, but that few minutes was enough for the butterflies to set in. Unconsciously, I began twisting my fingers together, tracing my manicured nails over and over, and tapping my foot. My gentle daddy, he clasped my hands in his, gently stroking my knuckles, and smiled that reassuring smile that had brought me through many difficult times. “He’s the luckiest man this side of the pond, you know.” He whispered softly. “He’s so good for you, and you bring out the best in him. I wouldn’t walk you down that aisle to just anyone. You know that.”

I swallowed back the tears that threatened, my father’s strength was my strength, and it had carried me through so much. I could only imagine how difficult the prospect of “giving his daughter away” must have been for him.

“There won’t ever be anyone else, he’s the only one for me.” I took a deep breath, and gazed at him, the first man that ever loved me. “I love you so much, Daddy. I’m so glad you’re here with me today. I doubt I’d make it down that aisle without you holding me up!” I let my fingers brush the softness of his beard as I wrapped my arms around his neck, hugging him as tightly as I could. Before he could utter another word, the car came to a stop, and there was the church, right in front of me. Gallant gentleman that he was, he stepped down from the car first. I had warned Ed the night before that he was to stay in his designated space inside the church once he got there, no sneaking any peeks, and he’d promised to behave. Two strong hands suddenly grasped mine and helped me step out of the car and onto the walkway. The second car pulled up behind ours and my mother, sister, and bridesmaids were suddenly all around me, escorting me into the church. The bridal room was ready for us, and the flowers had been delivered, much to my relief. We had chosen simple garlands and bunches of wildflowers and daisies for most of our décor, accented by clusters of soft pink roses, to go with the English countryside/garden motif, and I’d wanted to keep the bouquets to the same theme. My lovely girls carried small, simple bouquets of gorgeous, brightly hued wildflowers, and I had chosen a simple bouquet of creamy roses, accented by wildflowers in softer, pastel hues. Boutonnieres had already been distributed, and I watched as my father pinned the corsage he’d chosen onto my mother’s dress, and then kissed her cheek. They loved each other so much, I hoped one day Ed and I would still be that in love when our children were grown.

I smiled at him and said “We’ve just got to pin the veil on and we’re ready! Less than 10 minutes, I promise!” I went to shoo him from the room, and a thought suddenly occurs that made me pause and call him back. “Murray, WAIT. You or John or Matt or SOMEONE, make sure he’s done his tie straight! He can’t get it right to save his life!”

“On it!” he says authoritatively, dashing from the room in his usual comic way, causing everyone, including me, to fall to pieces laughing. I shook my head and took a deep breath, all of a sudden feeling the rollercoaster sensation in my stomach again. He was waiting for me, and all I had to do was make it down that aisle.

“Alright girls, veil me!” I commanded with a smile, wanting to get to those doors and see those clear blue eyes gaze back at me. The veil itself had been very carefully cleaned and steamed so that there was not a wrinkle in sight, and it was hanging in a clear garment bag, ready to be placed on my head. I watched my mom unzip the bag and gently pull it from the hanger, laying it over her arm so that it wouldn’t catch or wrinkle. I faced the door so that I wouldn’t have to turn around too much once it was in place. I felt my mom’s gentle hand smooth my hair and position my head, and then I closed my eyes and she slid the comb into the hair that was teased at the top of my head. My sister and my 3 bridesmaids gently fluffed the long length of tulle, arranging the material so that it flowed smoothly over my shoulders, cascading down to my train. I could feel the gossamer light material brush against my bare arms, and my fingers found the lace edging, tracing the lines of the scalloping and the tiny pearl accents that dotted the lacy pattern. Having this piece of my grandmother literally surround me on my wedding day…it was everything to me. I turned to the side, loving the feeling of the veil flowing down my body. Catching sight of my reflection in the mirror, I abruptly froze in place, taking in the sight of myself as a bride. I could barely believe it was me…my dress fit me beautifully, my hair was sleek and beautiful, my face flawless. My jewellery caught the light, and my grandmother’s stunning veil….it took my breath away. I just hoped Ed would feel the same way.

“If he doesn’t cry…I sure as hell will.” I heard my father’s gruff voice in my ear as he took his place beside me, his eyes staring at the same reflection mine were. “You ready to get married, sweetheart?” I squared my shoulders and exhaled, as a grin spread across my face. “Let’s do it, Daddy” I said, the butterflies gone and my heart ready. I squeezed his hand and nodded at him. My three sweet bridesmaids left the room first, followed my mother and best friend. It was just my daddy and I, and he gently scooped up my veil and helped me carefully walk down the hallway to the vestibule around the corner from the big doors that led into the church. The pastor who would be performing our ceremony, a sweet older gentleman whom we affectionately called Father Patrick, was waiting for us. He offered kind words of encouragement and instructed us to wait for the cues in the music before we began our walk down the aisle. With a final smile and a wink, he headed through the doors to take his place at the front of the church, his bible tucked into the crook of his arm. Matthew would be waiting at the front of the church with Ed, as his best man, but Stuart, Murray, and Jovel would walk down the aisle, accompanying my girls.

I hadn’t allowed myself to look to the front of the church, I didn’t trust myself to keep it together, but I couldn’t wait any longer. I had to and he was there, my beautiful Teddy. He wasn’t facing me, not yet. He’d wait for the cue from the pastor to turn around, but oh….the way the lights caught the fire of his hair, the soft curls like spun gold. The lines of his broad shoulders, and the way his tux jacket hugged him, oh my…. I could see his foot jiggling nervously, and then his hand reached out to touch Matthew’s shoulder as they exchanged a grin. His head lifted suddenly, looking up to the ceiling and I could see him taking a deep breath, trying to prepare himself. I could feel that strong, familiar hand holding me steady, and squeezing my hand, as the notes of Pachelbel’s Canon (Didn’t I say I was a traditionalist?) filled the church. I lifted my head, smiled at my Daddy, and took the first step.

I held it together until I looked in his eyes. I could see Father Patrick with a broad smile on his face, gesture to Ed that it was time. That I was ready. His shoulders lifted, and with knowing smiles from him groomsmen, he turned around. It was as if everyone else disappeared, the music faded, time slowed and my heart felt as though it was going to thrum right out of my chest. His eyes widened, his mouth parted, and the wonder and joy in his eyes…it would stay with me every day for the rest of my life. His hands were clasped in front of him, and it looked as though he’d forgotten how to breathe, but he never took his eyes off me. My eyes found his, those clear blue eyes that could see into my soul, and the love that fairly shone out of them, I couldn’t get to him fast enough. The grin that spread across his face, it spoke of pride and love and pure joy, and it was like pure sunlight shining over me. I took slow, shaky breaths, reminding myself to breath as I slowly made my way down that aisle. I couldn’t see a single face in that church, besides Ed’s, and I could feel the tears as they spilled down my cheeks. He was everything. After what seemed like an eternity, we reached the front, and Ed stepped forward. I looked in to my father’s eyes, and lifted my face for a kiss. His fingers brushed my face, wiping the tears away before he kissed my cheek one last time. Ed reached his hand out to grasp my dad’s, and in return, my dad raised his eyebrow in jest, and wrapped his arms around him in a big hug. A smile lit both their faces, and it meant the world to me to see the love and affection between the two most important men in my life. My dad stepped back, and we all faced the pastor, waiting for the words that would finally allow me to join my soon-to-be hubby. He asked the traditional question, who gives this woman to this man, and when my father responded: Her mother and I do, I couldn’t keep my eyes off of Ed. He was standing proudly, his chest puffed out with his hands at his sides, but they were restless, like he just couldn’t wait any longer. My dad lifted my hand and with a twinkle in his eye, finally, placed my hand in Ed’s.

His hands, they were so soft, so warm, and so strong. They cradled my fingers, while the pad of his thumb skimmed gently over my knuckles, in such a gentle, tender way. I squeezed his hands, and we both just gazed at each other, our eyes locked, and the most ridiculous of smiles on our faces. There was such joy coursing through me, I could barely contain it. I squeezed his hands and bit my lip, ready to marry this man. He shook his head slightly, almost as if in disbelief, and when he mouthed “So beautiful…” the look in his eyes was almost reverent. Our ceremony was to be traditional and spiritual, and so we bowed our heads and spoke our prayers, and both of our mothers read beautiful passages from the bible. We sang a beautiful hymn in honour of my grandmother, and Ed’s Granddad, who were no longer with us, and knelt down to be blessed. The pastor invited everyone to sit, and motioned for us to stand and face each other. His hands found mine, and my fingers slid around his, holding on as tightly as I could. We’d contemplated writing our own vows, but ultimately had decided those sentiments would be ours to keep private, and to stick with the traditional vows in church. The only thing we both agreed we didn’t care for was the “till death do us part”, and so we chose to change it to “for the rest of our lives”. I spoke my vows first, my heart beating out of my chest, repeating the age-old words that Father Patrick murmured to help us along:

I, Emily Grace, take you, Edward Christopher, to be my husband, to have and to hold from this day forward; for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish for the rest of our lives, according to God’s holy law. This is my solemn vow.

As I finished speaking, I saw Ed swallow hard, the emotion on his face threatening to spill over. I couldn’t help myself as I gently reached up with my hand to caress his face, mouthing the words “Forever…” so only he could see. His face split into that brilliant smile, and his lips formed the words that always followed, “…and ever…” He adjusted his stance as if to steady himself and gripped my hands tight as began his vows. “I, Edward Christopher, take you, Emily Grace…”

Every word he spoke was fervent, passionate, and clear as a bell, there was not a shake or stammer to voice, not one trace of nerves. We never broke eye contact, his clear sea-blue eyes fixed on mine with such devotion my tummy danced. I could lose myself in those eyes every time I looked in them. When the last word left his mouth, he exhaled, and lifted my hand to his mouth, brushing his lips across my knuckles, his eyes crinkling as the biggest smile spread across his face. I tried so hard to pay attention to the pastor’s words, but looking into Ed’s eyes, holding his hands, the smell of his cologne wafting over me, I was just lost in him. Father Patrick began to read the passage that would have us exchange our rings, and suddenly, I saw Ed’s little goddaughter running up to us, waving the ring pillow frantically with a grin on her face. My heart just melted as Ed knelt down to meet her, kissing her cheek as he palmed our rings. She threw her arms around his neck with a squeal and he squeezed her right back, a gigantic grin on his face as he lifted her right up into the air in a bear hug before he put her back down. She skipped off to find her mum, and the chorus of Awwww’s that echoed through the church definitely included every of us standing at the altar. Her dad, Jovel, was beaming and trying not to fall to pieces laughing, and even Stu had a grin on his face. It was a perfect moment. Oh my Teddy, he was going to be the most amazing Daddy one day.

His hands found mine again, and we bowed our heads as a prayer was spoken over the rings. Father Patrick placed Ed’s ring in my hand, and asked me to repeat after him:

Edward, I give you this ring

as a symbol of my vow. With all that I am and all that I have

I honour you, in the name of God.

I let my fingers quickly brush across his knuckles as I repeated these words, and I couldn’t help but bounce lightly on my toes and lift my shoulders in excitement as I slid that simple gold band onto his finger. I looked up at him, and grinned, and the look on his face as gazed down at his finger. It was just so adorable, like he couldn’t quite believe it to be true. Ed was handed my ring, and he gently slid his hand underneath mine and lifted my hand to his lips, kissing it softly before repeating those same traditional words to me; “Emily, I give you this ring as a symbol of my vow…” I’d chosen a simple, delicate gold band that matched Ed’s, and we both let out deep, shaky breaths as he finally slid it onto my finger; It sparkled in the light, and I loved how it nestled perfectly against my grandmother’s ring. Neither of us could control the smiles on our faces as we clasped our newly ringed hands, and it took every ounce of control I had not to grab his face and kiss him right then and there. The pastor lifted his hands and recited a beautiful blessing over us and our marriage, and then together with our family and friends, we spoke The Lord’s Prayer. His face beaming, Father Patrick had us join our right hands, and then raised his hands, uttering the words we’d been waiting over a year to finally hear.

Edward and Emily have joined themselves to each other by solemn vows,

signified by the joining of hands and the giving and receiving of a ring.

I declare, in the name of God, that they are husband and wife.

Those whom God has joined together let no one put asunder.

I thought Ed’s face would split in half his smile was so big, his eyes were dancing, and he literally was bouncing on his feet waiting for the signal that he could finally, finally kiss me. I kept pressing my lips together while I squeezed his hands so tightly, wanting to wrap my arms around him and never, ever let him go. I was trembling and giddy and impatient, and I truly thought I might actually burst if I couldn’t kiss my husband right that very minute. I fully expected the traditional words from the church ceremony when Father Patrick opened his mouth, but his eyes had an extra twinkle when he turned to Ed and proclaimed “Lad, what are you waiting for??”

Before I could even breathe, his lips were on mine, a kiss so full of love and promise and adoration, and he was everything and that kiss was the only thing in my world. I cupped his cheeks with my hands, kissing him back with more fervour and promise than I could ever have thought possible, loving how his lips were just made for mine. I could feel his arms lift me up under bum, and I squealed and locked my arms around his neck as he spun me around and kissed me again, like he just couldn’t get enough. My eyes filled with happy tears at his jubilant expression. I suddenly was aware of everyone in the church clapping and cheering and hollering for us, and I couldn’t stop laughing as Ed set me back on my feet, and grabbed my hand, lifting it in the air with what I can only describe as a triumphant expression on his face. He was my husband, I was his WIFE, I couldn’t believe it, and we were married. He was irrevocably mine and I was NEVER going to let him go, ever. He laced his fingers through mine and led me up to the altar, followed by my sister and Matthew, where we officially signed our wedding register, and posed for some photos. The exuberance that was positively radiating from his face was incredible, it lit his face up like an angel, and I couldn’t stop looking at him. As Matthew finished signing his name on the register, I felt a soft, fuzzy cheek press against mine, and his warm breath tickle my ear as I heard him whisper softly so no one else could hear. “Love you forever and ever, Wife…” He pulled my hand to his mouth and kissed my fingertips softly, without taking his eyes off me. We finished with the signing, and Ed helped lead back to the steps at the altar, where we faced towards our friends and family, hands and hearts intertwined, ready to be introduced as a married couple. Father Patrick ended our ceremony with a beautiful blessing and the sign of the cross, before he raised his arms once more and announced with great enthusiasm and gusto;

“I’m proud and pleased to introduce to you to the new Mr. and Mrs. Edward Sheeran!”

Cheers, applause and roars of excitement filled the church as everyone jumped to their feet, and I took that perfect opportunity to sneak one more kiss with my new husband before we headed back down that aisle. It was a sweet, perfect kiss, and I loved that even with my eyes closed I could tell he was grinning as big as I was. The processional music swelled, and I pulled back, ready to walk down the steps and back up the aisle, this time as husband and wife. I noticed the look on Ed’s face before I even had a chance to move, and before I could guess what he was up to (I KNEW that face!), he’d swept me up in his arms and was down those steps! I threw my head back and wrapped one arm around his neck, while I lifted my bouquet in the air with the other, waving it in celebration! I kicked my legs up, waving to everyone while I shook with giggles. What better way to start our journey, then in the strong, sexy arms of my husband?

Once we made it to the back of church, we were supposed to head outside to greet our guests and take pictures, but all I wanted was just 5 minutes alone with my new husband. I looked down the hall, and looked at Ed with a grin, pointing to the door of the bridal suite I’d left behind not so long ago. “Just for a minute…” I whispered in his ear, biting my lip. “I want my Teddy all for myself, just for a moment…” He dropped a kiss on my lips and nodded enthusiastically. “Hell yes!” He murmured with a grin, setting me down on my feet, and then gripping my hand and fairly yanking me down the hall into that room, slamming the door behind us. It just the two of us, no one else, and I wanted to just absorb every bit of my handsome, sexy, adorable new husband before I had to share him with the world.

“Teddy…” I gasped, breaking away from his kiss with a giggle. I dropped a kiss on his nose. “”We have to behave. There’s about 100 people waiting on us out there and I don’t think a catholic church is the place for us to be….well…”

Ed’s face was flushed, but he was giggling too as he straightened up and tucked a strand of hair behind my ear. “Just got a bit carried away with my wife, didn’t I?” he said with a grin on his face. “Guess I can behave for a while longer if I have to…” I bit my lip and tried not to giggle as I noticed him adjusting his pants while he took a deep breath, trying to, um, calm himself down before we faced the masses. I smoothed out my dress, checked my hair and touched up my lipstick, making sure that I did not, in fact, look like I just came out of heated make out session.

“Shall we go, Husband?” I said teasingly, lacing my fingers through his as I pulled him through the door. “I am ready to be adored, worshipped and praised by the crowds!” As we set off down the hall, I felt his soft breath in my ear, and it sent prickles of electricity through my body as his lips caught the soft skin under my jaw.

His voice was low, teasing, as he murmured softly so only I could hear, “Don’t think I’ve forgotten what you’re wearing under that dress, Love. You will be worshipped and adored. All. Night. Long….”

To Be Continued.... Xox

*MASTERLIST HERE*

#Ed Sheeran #Ed Sheeran fanfic #Ed sheeran fanfiction #ed sheeran love story #Code Ginger #Teddy Sheeran fanfiction #Teddy Sheeran fic #Ed sheeran fic #Ed and Emily #Teddy Sheeran

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artificialqueens · 7 years

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Chapter Three: We'll Show Them- Luci

summary: things take a turn for the worst when Farrah suggests a night out, and Shea risks everything when Sasha gets into trouble

tw: drinking, mild harassment, slight homophobia (not as dark as it sounds)

The day had begun like all the ones that week, quietly and dull. Sasha sat behind her desk with her elbow rested on the wooden surface, chin held up in her palm. Her eyes stared blankly at her computer screen, the words of a forwarded email blurring across the page. She narrowed her eyes, trying to focus on each sentence, but her attempts brought no success. Sasha minimised the email, leaving the screen on her desktop background. She smiled nostalgically as she remembered when the photograph had been taken.

The picture was of every member of staff that worked on Good Morning Bitches during Sasha’s first week. She was stood with the other anchors, Alexis and Shea, her arms draped shyly over their shoulders. Shea held her arm around Sasha’s waist; whilst a reluctant Alexis let her arms hang at her sides. The receptionists and assistants were adjacent to them, the cheerful group engulfing each other in a hug. Farrah, Kimora and Aja often seemed closer than any friend group Sasha knew, which seemed especially odd for colleagues. Trinity and Eureka stood firmly at the centre of both groups, neither indulging in the cheerful photo. They both managed a small smile, however.

Although Sasha had always loved the photo, one part in particular always caught her eye. Sasha’s mouth was slightly agape and her head was slightly tilted towards Shea. Shea’s own head was thrown back in laughter, eyes sparkling in amusement. Of course Sasha remembered the significance of the photograph; it was the memory behind it. It was the first time Sasha made Shea laugh. It had cost her a stern word from Trinity, something along the lines of, ‘we’re using the picture for the website, even if you made my staff look like a bunch of monkeys’.

Sasha longed to make a joke that would make Shea look at her like that again. She knew, however, that Shea wouldn’t want to hear one of her jokes for a while. Shea had created distance between herself and Sasha, hurt from Sasha’s rejection the week before.

“Hey, idiot, when were you actually planning on starting work? You’ve been staring at nothing for like 10 minutes.” Alexis scolded, peering over Sasha’s shoulder. Her comment had snapped Sasha out of her daze, and she glanced up sheepishly.

“Why can’t you smile like that anymore?” Sasha pointed to where Alexis stood in the photo, “What happened to that tiny, barely-there smile that you used to have?” Her joke made Alexis roll her eyes.

“You’re unbelievably useless. Eureka said that Aja was supposed to ask you about finishing a report from last week?” Alexis prompted.

Sasha sighed dramatically, moving the mouse so it hovered over her recent emails. Sure enough, there was a reminder from Aja. Both she and Shea were meant to find a story to discuss for the following week, when they were given a longer time slot. Sasha figured she’d find something herself as opposed to forced conversation with Shea. Alexis, satisfied that she’d done her job, walked back to her own desk.

Sasha tapped mindlessly on the keyboard, which was stained with coffee, as she opened the long forgotten google tabs on her computer.

Shea approached, and Sasha couldn’t be happier for a distraction. Clutching her clipboard, however, Sasha assumed that it was a business talk, not a friendly one. She opened her mouth to greet Sasha but Farrah interrupted, standing in between the two women. Farrah sat on the edge of Alexis’s desk, much to the woman’s annoyance.

“Hey guys.” Farrah grinned as the group turned to face her, wondering what she wanted. Kimora and Aja followed closely behind, both looking equally as happy as Farrah. None of the three had the most exciting jobs and, if Sasha got bored at her job, she’d had to have to suffer through theirs. It was unusual for even these usually charming girls to be that happy at work.

“What are you so chipper about?” Shea asked with a laugh, but Farrah’s smile didn’t fade.

“We’re going out for, like, the first time in months. It’s not often that we all have the same night off.” Kimora answered, leaning on Shea’s desk.

“You three need to come with us tonight! There’s a great bar a couple of streets down from here, we were planning on going after work.” Farrah clapped excitedly, her mouth spread into a wide grin. Sasha’s eyes switched from Farrah to Shea, who was sitting behind them with a grimace. Alexis, who was the oldest of the group, seemed much less inclined to join them, but agreed to do so after some persuading from Aja.

“Yeah, I’ll come, it sounds fun.” Sasha decided, hoping that her own disbelief wouldn’t seep through her deceptive words. “Me too. See you around eight?” Shea asked, turning her attention onto Farrah, who nodded in agreement.

Farrah was called back to her desk by Eureka, who had already managed to herd Aja and Kimora back to the office.

“If you want, I can pick you up at 8 and we can go to the bar together? Saves you getting the bus.” Shea offered, her voice still lacking in its usual friendly tone. Sasha was just grateful for the conversation. She’d missed it and she felt deprived, even if it had only been a week.

“That’d be great, thanks Shea.” Sasha smiled, watching Shea return the smile and walk back to her desk.

Sasha waited for her desk clock to tick its way to 6pm, tapping her finger on the mouse in time to the ticks. Eventually, the hands formed the straight line that Sasha had been waiting for, and she practically leapt from her seat. She was looking forward to mending her relationship with Shea, even if it meant having to deal with drunken barely-adults. She couldn’t pretend that she was the mature one of the crew, but at least she didn’t chase men around the bar and dance with them on tables. But, she supposed, there was more than one reason for that.

The bus was waiting to pick her up just 20 minutes later, and Sasha revelled in the chance to sit and think without the ever-present interruptions from her co-workers. Her mind wandered to her wardrobe as she wondered with dread how many of her clothes were actually clean and stainless. Picking out clothes for work that weren’t covered in pen or paint was difficult enough, and she had a lot less clothes for going out. She just hoped she hadn’t ended up painting in one of her nicer dresses, though she wouldn’t have been surprised if she had.

The bus stopped right on her street, and she was thankful because she wasn’t sure how much walking in heels her feet could take without a break.

She chose a black bodycon dress that stopped at the middle of her thighs. She paired it with a colourful blazer, patches sewn all over it, and some black heels that made her almost as tall as Alexis. Her makeup from her day at work was bold enough for her to not be able to justify redoing it, so she opts to just darken the shade of red on her lips and add more eyeliner to sharpen her wings.

The ring of the doorbell made Sasha jump as she sat on the end of her bed, tying up the laces on her heels.

Of course, Sasha couldn’t see her own face when she opened the door to Shea, but in every scenario she could think up, she was staring like an idiot, mouth open and eyes wide. She wouldn’t be surprised if she’d actually been stood there drooling. Shea wore a tight red backless dress with a plunging neckline and black kitten heels. Her hair was curled and sat like a frame around her face. It was a well-known fact that Sasha loved art; anyone could look at her and see that. But if you had placed her in a room full of her favourite paintings, from The Birth of Venus to Café Terrace at Night, Sasha could almost guarantee that she’d still be looking at Shea.

“Hey, you clean up real nice.” Shea grinned as Sasha twirled on the spot once she regained her composure.

“So do you, you look amazing.” Sasha exclaimed, returning the smile. Shea gave a mockingly humble shrug.

“Come on, let’s go. The others will be waiting for us.” Shea pulled Sasha towards the door and waited for her to lock it on the other side. They walked down the apartment building’s stairs until they reached the car park, chatting the whole way. The tension from earlier that day seemed to have lessened drastically, but Sasha was still watching her words. She certainly didn’t want to upset Shea again. Especially not on the first night they’d spent time together outside of work. Just the thought of it made Sasha nervous.

Shea held the passenger door open for Sasha before walking around to the other side of the car. They drove with music blaring, which Sasha wasn’t used to considering her daily commute was a bus, where most people offered a glare to anyone who even dared to cough. Sasha was happy to sing along to the song on the radio, only pausing to laugh with disbelief when Shea rapped the rap verses perfectly.

“I have more talents than just bossing you around, you know.” Shea laughed, tapping the side of her nose to indicate secrecy.

They arrived later than anyone else, and a drunken Aja managed to tell them that everyone else had been at the bar for 20 minutes. Sasha braced herself for one of Alexis’s infamous lectures, but the woman was enjoying a drink and didn’t seem to care less about their late arrival. Sasha and Shea took a seat next to her on the corner sofa that their group had migrated to. The pair both sat on the side adjacent to the bar, legs pressed together as they fought for space amidst their drunk co-workers.

Farrah was known for being a lightweight, but Sasha wouldn’t have been surprised if the woman had broken a record this time. It took her just over half an hour to start dancing on the tables, much to the bartender’s disdain. She was yelling and laughing, pulling an equally as drunk Kimora to dance with her. The pair had their eyes on men sat by the bar, and it was very clear that the men were equally as interested.

Shea laughed from her seat on the sectional sofa. They’d found themselves watching the younger women in their drunken antics, making the occasional comment to each other, Shea delighting in Sasha’s jokes.

“I need a drink if I’m going to forget that,” Sasha laughed with a grimace as she pointed to Farrah dancing up on one of the men, “you want anything Shea?”

She politely shook her head and watched Sasha amble over to the bar. She leaned towards the barman so he could hear her over the loud music, shouting out her order. When she turned around again to walk back to the group, two drinks in hand, she didn’t miss the scowl on Shea’s face. She didn’t realise what was wrong until she heard a catcall from the men on the bar stools.

Sitting down in her seat, she sat further back so that Shea’s body shielded her from their gaze. She leaned over and handed the margarita to Alexis, taking her own gin and tonic, placing it on her bare thigh. The bottom of the glass left a ring on her skin when she picked it up to take a sip, the alcohol warming her throat.

Sasha hadn’t realised how much she’d had to drink until Shea had commented on it. Shea had been talking to her, something about Farrah’s dancing, while Sasha stared up at her, a lazy smile on her face and a glazed expression in her eyes.

“-I don’t know who taught her that move, but they shouldn’t have. Damn, you’re really drunk aren’t you?” Shea laughed fondly as Sasha tried to comprehend what she was saying.

“Hey, Velour, come dance with us!” Kimora shouted from across the room, linking arms with Aja. Farrah had since sat down, barely able to stand. She was still breathing heavily as she curled up in Sasha’s spot on the sofa, an empty glass on the floor beside her. Sasha glanced up at Shea who answered for her, “Go on then girl,” nudging her in the direction of Kimora, whose arms were outstretched to hug her.

Aja twirled Sasha around on the wooden floor that had been proclaimed the dance floor by the locals. Sasha was largely unaware of her surroundings, only of Kimora dancing on a man by the bar and Aja’s hands clasped in her own as they span around, humming in time to the music.

The bartender had since added some dull strobe lights as dancing grew more popular with the people drinking, and the music had gotten louder. Sasha was only alert when she stumbled or when the strobe lights caught her eye, flashes of colour blinding her temporarily.

“Oh fuck I’m gonna puke.” Aja groaned, clutching her stomach. Sasha watched in concern as she grabbed a hold of whoever was closest to the bathroom, who happened to be Kimora, and pulled her through the ‘ladies’ door for assistance.

Sasha was left standing on her own and she stopped dancing facing the direction of the bathroom in concern. Once convinced that Kimora had it covered, she turned to look for Shea. She frowned when she noticed that she wasn’t sitting on the sofa as she had been before.

Sasha focused on searching for a glimpse of red, but she couldn’t see Shea anywhere in the bar, which in itself wasn’t that big. Although busy, Sasha knew that if Shea was in the bar somewhere she’d be able to spot her.

Sasha’s missteps had led her to the small garden outside the bar. Usually, the garden was full of people smoking, but it was unusually quiet. Sasha imagined it was because everyone was dancing inside the bar, too drunk to think about their next smoke break. Sasha knew Shea didn’t smoke, but she thought she might find the woman in the garden, getting some fresh air. She gave a heavy sigh when she realised that she’d been wrong.

With a slight stumble, she gripped the wall for balance. The brick wall of the bar’s exterior was cool, and Sasha was grateful for it when she pressed her back against the wall. The wall made her sturdier and gave her the courage to take another step around the corner, hoping to see Shea waiting for her there. Someone was stood around the corner, but it wasn’t Shea. A man stood; one foot rested on the wall, the other firmly on the ground. He didn’t seem drunk at all, but Sasha’s senses were hardly at their peak, so she couldn’t be sure.

“Sorry.” Sasha spoke, her words merging together as they slurred. The man’s attention turned to her, and she could just about see his smirk in the darkness. He slowly brought his foot to the ground so they were both firmly planted on the ground.

“It’s alright love. No worries.” The man spoke coyly, his voice much stronger and steadier than Sasha’s. She nodded politely and attempted to back away. Walking backwards proved difficult and she stumbled, only evoking a huff of amusement from the stranger.

“You don’t have to run away or anythin’. What’s your name?” The man asked, turning his body so that he faced Sasha. He was standing close to her now, close enough that Sasha was conscious of her own breath, tainted by intoxication. She didn’t have the mental capacity at that moment to weigh up the pros and cons of giving away that information.

“It’s Sasha.” She mumbled, scanning her surroundings with tired eyes. There was no one around, and Sasha was sure as hell not able to run anywhere.

The man’s hand has found its way onto Sasha’s arm and was working its way upwards when he paused. His eyes narrowed as he watched her frightened expression.

“As in, that Sasha Velour woman?” The man asked; the lustful smile wiped from his face. Sasha braced herself and took a deep breath. The man’s eyebrow rose as if prompting her to acknowledge her question. She gave a slight nod, and the man’s body tensed.

“So you were just gonna let me chat you up and make a fool of myself? You lesbians think that’s funny?” The man growled, his grip on Sasha’s arm growing in strength. His fingers left red marks on her arm, his chewed nails still managing to dig their way into her skin. Sasha flinched, trying to pull herself free.

“Let go.” Sasha spoke, making her voice as firm as she could. It still cracked, both from nerves and her dry throat. She wondered if the man had even heard her, because he showed no signs of acknowledgement. Instead, he just leered over her, his grip as strong as ever.

He leaned in closer when Sasha mumbled protests, her pounding head causing her disorientation.

“Have you ever been kissed by a man? I mean, a real man. Maybe that would solve all your problems.” The man sneered, holding Sasha’s jaw with his free hand. She pulled away, holding the corner wall in hopes of someone seeing her. Surely enough, she heard distant footsteps become louder and quicker.

“Hey fucker.” The newcomer called, pulling Sasha away from the man so they could confront him. Sasha’s eyes darted to her saviour, seeing a familiar red dress and dark hair. It was Shea who now stood in front of Sasha, separating her from the man. Farrah stood behind Shea, wrapping an arm around a shaking Sasha.

“Are you trying to protect that? You should be protecting me.” The man shouted with outrage. Shea paused for a moment, her mind clearly running with scenarios. She bit her lip for a second before balling her fists.

Shea’s punch came suddenly, knocking the man back as her fist made contact with his face, just under his jaw. He cried out angrily, swinging his own fist at Shea. It missed her as he was still regaining balance.

“Come on sweet, let’s get you inside.” Farrah gently pulled Sasha into the bar after giving Shea a meaningful look. After assessing that the woman would be fine, Farrah held the door open for Sasha to walk through.

Sasha sat on one of the barstools, as it was the only spare seat in the now very busy bar. Aja, Kimora and Alexis watched Sasha with concern. Aja and Kimora were arguably as drunk as Sasha, however, so didn’t bother sobering up to check on her. Farrah re-joined the others when Sasha had insisted that she was fine.

The bottles of alcohol glittered with colours, changing from red to blue with the strobe lights. It made Sasha feel dizzy and she shook her head gently to fix her swimming vision. Her head protested the sudden movement, and she held it with a grimace. In her disorientation, she hadn’t seen Shea pull up a stool next to her. When she noticed the woman, Sasha grinned widely.

“There’s my knight in shining armour.” Sasha hummed.

“You okay bitch?” Shea asked, shaking her head fondly at Sasha’s absentminded smile. Sasha nodded distractedly, but judging by her frown, something else caught her attention.

“Why aren’t you drinking?” Sasha asked curiously, her words slurring together. It took Shea a few moments to comprehend what she was saying.

“I don’t really drink.” Shea explained simply. “Then why did you come here?” Sasha asked, watching Shea with a curious stare. She reminded Shea of a young puppy when it tries to understand a command for the first time.

“Honestly, I came because I wanted to see you. That’s it.” Shea confessed, hoping Sasha wouldn’t notice the flush appearing on her face. In her current state, Shea doubted it.

“Why’d you tell me that?” Sasha grinned. She drew out her words, each one bringing more notice to the liquor on her breath. Shea just shrugged, “because I know you won’t remember this in the morning.” Sasha nodded in agreement, a gesture that read, ‘fair enough’.

Sasha’s eyes were wide, her brain only just beginning to process the situation she’d been in before. She checked Shea’s face worriedly, gasping gently when she saw blood on Shea’s knuckles.

She shrugged, as if claiming that she was fine. Sasha’s lips were still drawn into a smile, but it seemed to be forced, as if it were frozen on her face. It looked out of place with the panic in her eyes and her tense muscles. That was typical Sasha; even in her drunken stupor, her intelligent mind was still running wildly. She tucked her legs under the bar stool, as if that made her feel safer, and swivelled to face Shea. The other woman tried to disguise the concern from her expression.

“I like you.” Sasha mumbled; her empty vodka shot pressed to her lips.

“I’ll get Alexis to drive you home.” Shea announced, placing a kiss on Sasha’s cheek. Sasha brought up her hand to where Shea had kissed her, her hand shaking slightly.

She watched Shea as she walked away, not sober enough to call out to her. Instead, she pouted on her stool until Alexis walked over, handbag slung over her shoulder, wrapping an arm around Sasha’s waist as she brought her to the powder blue fiat waiting outside.

#sasha velour #shea coulee #sashea #luci #rpdr fanfiction #wst by luci #lesbian au #s9

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naughty-teddy-innit · 7 years

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Ed and Emily Part 1- Forever and Ever. *REPOST* An Ed Sheeran Fanfic!

Authors Note: It’s been ages since I posted these, and I thought I’d do a little Self-Promotion while I work on Part 3, especially with many new lovely followers since I originally posted! :-) Any and ALL feedback, comments and reblogs would be WONDERFUL! Encourage me to write more! Hope you enjoy and I’ll Repost pt. 2 in the next couple of days! Love you guys! Xoxoxoxoxo

ED AND EMILY PART 1: FOREVER AND EVER

I was as desperate for our wedding night as Ed was, a month is a LONG time, and so I had wickedly chosen my undergarments knowing they’d drive him wild once he got to them. I chose a simple lace bustier, sheer with lacy patterning on the boning, with embroidered cups, laced with silky ribbon in the back. To say it enhanced my cleavage would be an understatement, but thankfully the lacy illusion neckline of my dress kept that secret hidden, a little something just for Ed. The matching lacy panties were high cut and butt-cheek baring, with tiny bows at the hips. I wore thigh-highs, specifically for the purpose of tantalizing and teasing Ed later on, and the little straps at the bottom of the bustier clipped to the tops of those. I caught a glance of myself in the mirror, and biting my lip with a wicked smirk, thought maybe I’d share a taste of the view. Grabbing my phone off the bathroom counter, I angled it low and snapped a quick shot. The angle of it showed the lace edging at the bottom of the bustier, the bow at the curve of my hip, and the beginning of the strap that reached down to where it clipped to my hose. I flicked open my messaging app and attaching the pic, sent a quick message to my soon-to-be hubby: Me: 2 hours to go and you’re all mine…thought maybe you’d like a little taste of what’s waiting for you later…xoxoxox… Ed: Can’t wait till you’re MY WIFE. Also can’t wait get those fucking sexy panties OFF my wife…Fucking HELL. Me: You’ll have to unbutton and unlace me first… Ed: Jesus. Em, you’re the ONLY wedding gift I plan to unwrap tonight…. Me: It’ll be worth the wait. I promise…. See you at the altar, Teddy <3 xoxoxoxox Ed: I’ll be the one in the monkey suit…probably trying not to cry. Forever and ever Babe…

That man had the power to undo me in a heartbeat, and reading those words, had my heart nearly bursting. I looked to the ceiling, trying to hold back the tears that had sprung to my eyes.

Unconsciously, I began twisting my fingers together, tracing my manicured nails over and over, and tapping my foot. My gentle daddy, he clasped my hands in his, gently stroking my knuckles, and smiled that reassuring smile that had brought me through many difficult times. “He’s the luckiest man this side of the pond, you know.” He whispered softly. “He’s so good for you, and you bring out the best in him. I wouldn’t walk you down that aisle to just anyone. You know that.” I swallowed back the tears that threatened, my father’s strength was my strength, and it had carried me through so much. I could only imagine how difficult the prospect of “giving his daughter away” must have been for him. “There won’t ever be anyone else, he’s the only one for me.” I took a deep breath, and gazed at him, the first man that ever loved me. “I love you so much, Daddy. I’m so glad you’re here with me today. I doubt I’d make it down that aisle without you holding me up!” I let my fingers brush the softness of his beard as I wrapped my arms around his neck, hugging him as tightly as I could.

Before he could utter another word, the car came to a stop, and there was the church, right in front of me. Gallant gentleman that he was, he stepped down from the car first. I had warned Ed the night before that he was to stay in his designated space inside the church once he got there, no sneaking any peeks, and he’d promised to behave. Two strong hands suddenly grasped mine and helped me step out of the car and onto the walkway. The second car pulled up behind ours and my mother, sister, and bridesmaids were suddenly all around me, escorting me into the church. The bridal room was ready for us, and the flowers had been delivered, much to my relief. We had chosen simple garlands and bunches of wildflowers and daisies for most of our décor, accented by clusters of soft pink roses, to go with the English countryside/garden motif, and I’d wanted to keep the bouquets to the same theme. My lovely girls carried small, simple bouquets of gorgeous, brightly hued wildflowers, and I had chosen a simple bouquet of creamy roses, accented by wildflowers in softer, pastel hues. Boutonnieres had already been distributed, and I watched as my father pinned the corsage he’d chosen onto my mother’s dress, and then kissed her cheek. They loved each other so much, I hoped one day Ed and I would still be that in love when our children were grown.

We touched up our makeup, checked our earrings, and brushed our teeth within an inch of our lives. A visit to the ladies room also became a necessity, and all I can say is thank heavens for helpful bridesmaids! A knock on the door suddenly caught all of our attention, and a smiling, eye-twinkling face poked through. I grinned, seeing Murray, Ed’s cousin, so full of happiness and energy, but then he always was. “I’m told to tell you he’s ready and waiting, love! Church is full and he wants to get married!” I smiled at him and said “We’ve just got to pin the veil on and we’re ready! Less than 10 minutes, I promise!” I went to shoo him from the room, and a thought suddenly occurs that made me pause and call him back. “Murray, WAIT. You or John or Matt or SOMEONE, make sure he’s done his tie straight! He can’t get it right to save his life!” “On it!” he says authoritatively, dashing from the room in his usual comic way, causing everyone, including me, to fall to pieces laughing. I shook my head and took a deep breath, all of a sudden feeling the rollercoaster sensation in my stomach again. He was waiting for me, and all I had to do was make it down that aisle.

I heard the soft strains of the piano and violin begin to play, and steeled myself, trying to keep my composure. Matthew had already escorted my mother to her seat before the music began, so it was just us, and it was time. The moment was finally here. He was waiting for me. Stu, Jovel, and Murray all kissed my cheek and squeezed my hand with encouraging smiles before offering my ladies their elbows, and lining up in the proper order. Ed’s little goddaughter was our flower girl and my little nephew was our ring bearer, and we’d see if they made it down the aisle together. They looked completely adorable in their matching white dress and cream suit. The doors were pulled open, and one by one, my girls made their way down the aisle with their dashing escorts, to take their places at the front, followed by the little ones, who were so excited they fairly tore down that aisle, forgetting even to spread the flower petals from the basket. They were so sweet, I truly didn’t even care. Then, it was time. The music faded out for a moment, and that was our cue. I felt such affection as I watched my father fluff and straighten my veil, and brush a strand of hair from my eyes. He kissed my forehead and lifted his arm up, tucking my arm through his, holding me tightly. I hadn’t allowed myself to look to the front of the church, I didn’t trust myself to keep it together, but I couldn’t wait any longer. I had to and he was there, my beautiful Teddy. He wasn’t facing me, not yet. He’d wait for the cue from the pastor to turn around, but oh….the way the lights caught the fire of his hair, the soft curls like spun gold. The lines of his broad shoulders, and the way his tux jacket hugged him, oh my…. I could see his foot jiggling nervously, and then his hand reached out to touch Matthew’s shoulder as they exchanged a grin. His head lifted suddenly, looking up to the ceiling and I could see him taking a deep breath, trying to prepare himself. I could feel that strong, familiar hand holding me steady, and squeezing my hand, as the notes of Pachelbel’s Canon (Didn’t I say I was a traditionalist?) filled the church. I lifted my head, smiled at my Daddy, and took the first step.

Edward, I give you this ring as a symbol of my vow. With all that I am and all that I have I honour you, in the name of God.

Edward and Emily have joined themselves to each other by solemn vows, signified by the joining of hands and the giving and receiving of a ring. I declare, in the name of God, that they are husband and wife. Those whom God has joined together let no one put asunder.

“Lad, what are you waiting for??”

“I’m proud and pleased to introduce to you to the new Mr. and Mrs. Edward Sheeran!”

“Jesus…” he murmured, wrapping his arms around my waist. “Em, you’re so goddamn beautiful. And you are ALL mine forever. And ever. And…” His words faded out as his hands found my hair and his lips caught mine, softly at first as we savoured our first embrace alone as husband and wife. I locked my arms around his neck, pulling him close and loving the sensation of the tickly hairs of his beard against my jaw. He tasted so good and his lips were so soft, and the kiss deepened as I tried, somehow, to absorb every bit him. His hands traced their way up my body, his fingertips leaving fiery tingles in their wake, from my hips to my waist to the curve of my jaw, as his hands finally found my face. His kisses, lingering, deep kisses so full of passion and promise, they stole my breath and lit me on fire. My hands wound their way into his hair, those silky soft curls at his neck begging to be tugged. His tongue begged access to my mouth and oh, God, any self-control I had was slipping at the fervour and intensity of his lips, his tongue tasting every bit of me and me trying to taste every bit of him. I felt his hands leave my face and his fingers trail back down my body, down my arm, along the curve of my hip and then his hands were gently cupping my ass as he pulled the length of my body as tightly against his as possible, leaving not the smallest space between our bodies. It was the sudden feeling of his hardening length against my leg that suddenly jolted me back to reality, reminding me that as badly as my body wanted me to hike my skirt up and consummate our marriage right then and there, we couldn’t, not in church, not with our families and friends waiting outside the door. Tonight would be the one of most incredible nights of our lives, I could wait for just a bit longer. “Teddy…” I gasped, breaking away from his kiss with a giggle. I dropped a kiss on his nose. “”We have to behave. There’s about 100 people waiting on us out there and I don’t think a catholic church is the place for us to be….well…” Ed’s face was flushed, but he was giggling too as he straightened up and tucked a strand of hair behind my ear. “Just got a bit carried away with my wife, didn’t I?” he said with a grin on his face. “Guess I can behave for a while longer if I have to…” I bit my lip and tried not to giggle as I noticed him adjusting his pants while he took a deep breath, trying to, um, calm himself down before we faced the masses. I smoothed out my dress, checked my hair and touched up my lipstick, making sure that I did not, in fact, look like I just came out of heated make out session.

“Don’t think I’ve forgotten what you’re wearing under that dress, Love. You will be worshipped and adored. All. Night. Long….”

PT. 2 Coming Soon!!

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