#drake x Riley

[cordonianroyalairlines]

All I Want for Christmas Part 1

Series: Cordonian Royal Airlines

Fandom: The Royal Romance

Pairings for series: Various

Pairing for this chapter: Riley x Drake, Liam x Max

Word Count: 2,475

Rating: General

Warnings for this chapter: None

A/N: Listen. I had an idea for the @choicesprompts #rewritechallenge holiday edition. I had the whole scene in my head, but then I decided it needed a little lead-up. Then I decided the lead-up needed a lead-up and then these characters completely just took over, threw my script out the window, and took a whole detour to examine a little budding romance between Liam and Max when this story was supposed to be focused on Drake and Riley (and it still is, mostly).

Long story short, it got a little out of hand so I have split it into two chapters. I'm tagging all of the following:

@choicesprompts rewrite challenge, holiday edition TRR x Untamed Heart (one of my all-time favorite movies). @choicesficwriterscreations holiday prompt: Stuck together in the snow; @choicesdecember2023 Christmas and @choicesholidays: This is the worst Christmas ever.

“Goodbye, Mrs. Lassiter, have a pleasant stay!” Riley waved with a smile painted on her face as the last passenger debarked. The smile faded from her face as the guests disappeared down the jet bridge and her eyes took in the heavy snowfall blanketing the runway.

Max noticed her despondent expression. “You okay, Ri?”

She turned toward her best friend and coworker with a sigh. “Remind me again why I volunteered to work this flight?”

“Uh…because your sister is getting married in less than two months, and you needed the overtime to pay for the ridiculous over-the-top bachelorette party she wants.”

“Right. Amelia,” Riley nodded to herself, “I’m doing this for her.”

“I think you do too much for her, Ri,” Max clucked at her like a mother hen, “She takes advantage of your generous nature.”

“Oh, Max, it’s fine. You only get married once!”

He arched an eyebrow at her.

“Okay,” a giggle burst out of her, “Hopefully, she only gets married once!”

“Frankly, I’m surprised she found anyone willing to marry her. Is there something wrong with him?”

“Max!” Riley laughed as she thumped him playfully on the shoulder before turning serious. “I just hope we’re able to take off tomorrow as planned.” Tomorrow was Christmas Eve, and she had promised her mother she’d be home so she could spend Christmas day with her parents and siblings.

“I wouldn’t count on it.”

Riley turned toward the voice to find the pilot striding toward them. Captain Liam Rys stopped in front of the flight attendants to announce, “There’s a blizzard headed straight for us.”

“Maybe we could just fly out right now—” Riley started hopefully.

“That’s a negative,” Liam cut her off, “that would put me over my flight limit for the day. We’ll proceed to the hotel as planned and hope for the best but be prepared to spend Christmas here.”

“Remind me why you agreed to fly into Estonia, the blizzard capital of the world, two days before Christmas?” Max grumbled.

Liam’s eyes flicked to him in annoyance. “Because of the obscene amount of money Mr. Lassiter was willing to pay for me to do so. You’ll thank me when you get your next paycheck and there’s a substantial bonus on it, on top of the holiday bonus you just received.”

“It’s okay,” Max shrugged with a tinge of disappointment in his tone, “My brother is in Japan anyway.”

Liam’s expression softened a little. “I’m sure he wishes he could spend Christmas with you.”

“Well, he’s flying with Leo, which he loves. I’m just disappointed that we’re almost never assigned to the same flight.”

Liam averted his eyes, unwilling to tell Max that was on purpose. Bertrand had requested that Max not be on the same flight as himself after the younger Beaumont’s enthusiasm became embarrassing for him. Max had gushed to a passenger about his pride in his older sibling, proudly articulating that, “My brother’s the co-pilot. He’s really good at it. He’s almost good enough to be the pilot!”

Liam shuffled his feet awkwardly, then nodded at Max, “Yes, well…. See you at the hotel.”

“You will?” Max’s head whipped around in surprise. Liam had never expressed an interest in seeing him outside of work before.

“Well, he was a little snippy,” Riley observed as Liam disappeared down the sky bridge.

“But did he seem….I don’t know…interested in-“ a flush crawled up his neck and then flared across his face, “Never mind. Of course not.”

Riley’s brow furrowed. “Interested in what?”

“Nothing. Let’s just get this cabin cleaned up so we can go.”

***

Riley awoke the next morning to sheets of snow pouring from the sky, blanketing the city in white as far as she could see from her hotel window. Which wasn’t that far. The snow was coming down too fast and too thick for her to see past the parking lot.

“Shit!” She aggressively pulled the curtains closed and dove back under the covers.

***

“So, what have you two been up to all day?” Liam asked as the four-member flight crew sat down for dinner in the hotel restaurant.

“Well, I slept in, then I called my mom to let her know I wouldn’t be making it home today and probably not tomorrow either. Then I drown my sorrows in a steaming hot bubble bath.” Riley responded as she pulled the menu over to her.

“Yeah, but then we saw a movie,” Max reminded her. Turning to Liam, he rambled excitedly, “This hotel has a theater in it. There was popcorn and everything! And then we took a cooking class! Can you believe that? The hotel chef hosts a class here once a week, but they did an extra class today because it snowed everyone in.”

Liam smiled at Max’s enthusiasm. “That sounds like fun. Now I feel boring. I read all day. Drake, what about you?”

“What about me?” Drake was busy shoveling a complimentary roll into his mouth.

Riley laughed. “Have you not been listening to the conversation? He wants to know what you did to keep busy today, you dork.”

Drake grabbed his water glass and chugged the cold liquid down to cover the fact that he had not heard a word of the conversation since Riley stopped talking. He was still picturing her in that bubble bath. When he sat the glass down, he responded, “I did my usual morning workout. The gym here is excellent. Since I couldn’t go for a run, I hit the heavy bags and then swam a few laps.”

“How many is a few?” Max asked.

“Twenty.” Drake’s eyes flicked to Max as he answered before landing quickly back on Riley’s face searching for any clue that she was impressed, or at least interested in him.

Not that he cared. She was a coworker, and he didn’t date coworkers.

“All before lunch?” She raised an eyebrow.

He wasn’t sure if she found his morning activities impressive or stupid. Her expression gave away nothing. “I find it hard to sit still,” he answered.

Liam scoffed, “You sit in the cockpit for hours at a time.”

“First of all, that’s different. I’m doing plenty as you well know and second of all, that’s why I need more physical movement when I’m on the ground.”

“Makes sense to me!” Max nodded emphatically as the waitress arrived with the menus.

They ordered their food and ate while making companionable chit chat. After dinner, Max suggested they continue the night across the lobby.

The hotel bar was crowded. The four coworkers quickly parted in the crowd. Drake and Liam navigated to a small table in the back and ordered drinks.

“You don’t want to ask her to dance?” Liam nodded across the room to the dance floor where Max and Riley were laughing and twirling to the music.

Drake followed Liam’s eyes and froze as he watched her sway and shimmy to the thump of heavy base. “I don’t dance.”

“I’ve seen you dance.”

“Not well.”

“So, you’re worried about embarrassing yourself in front of her?”

“What? No!” Drake reached for the tumbler of single malt scotch as the server placed it on the table in front of him and took a long pull as his mind spun with ways to shift the conversation away from his nonexistent love life. “What’s going on with you and Max?”

Liam startled so hard that bourbon sloshed over the rim of his glass. He stared at Drake in a blind panic. “What do you mean?”

“I mean….you usually pay no attention to what the flight attendants are doing when we have layovers. Yet you invited everyone to dinner tonight and you’re the one that was watching them dance. I’m pretty sure you’re not into Riley because if you were, you wouldn’t be pushing me toward her. So that leaves Max. Tell me I’m wrong.”

He lowered his glass to the table with a sigh. “It’s that obvious?”

“To me, but I’ve known you for a long time, Li.”

Liam blew out a long breath. “Shit.”

“Why don’t you just tell him you’re interested?”

“No,” Liam shook his head vigorously, “I can’t do that!”

“Why not?”

“So many reasons! Starting with the fact that I’m his boss and that’s a sexual harassment suit waiting to happen.”

“Not if he likes you back,” Drake countered.

“That’s not likely.”

Again, Drake asked, “Why not?”

Liam scoffed as he gestured toward the dance floor. “I mean, look at him! He’s fun and popular and hilariously funny. And look at those dance moves! He’s interesting and cool. What could he possibly see in me?”

“Hey, don’t sell yourself short, man.”

“I’m a stick in the mud and you know it. I was the president of my debate team. He was the lead in his school’s production of Beetle Juice.”

“How do you know- “

“Bertrand told me.”

“So, you’ve been pumping his brother for information?”

“Not the point. He’s amazing and fun and talented and I’m….me.”

“Liam, come on, man, you-“

“When I was twelve, I read law books for fun.”

“Geez, okay. Never mind. You’re definitely going to die alone.”

“Shut up,” Liam laughed, “I know you think I’m being dramatic.“

“You fly planes for a living,” Drake reminded him. “In my experience, a lot of people find that sexy.”

“Yes, well, I know your experience is quite extensive in that area but-“

“Are you calling me a man whore?”

“If the shoe fits….” Liam muttered into his drink.

“Insult me all you want, but it isn’t going to change the fact that you’ve got it bad. You should just tell him.”

“Oh, okay, Mr. I don’t like Riley.”

Fuck. Drake took another long drink. The conversation had come full circle. His eyes drifted across the room to find her again. She was still with Max.

***

Riley led Max off the dance floor and to a table as she flagged down a server for some water. “What’s up with you tonight?”

“What do you mean?”

“I mean, you’ve been acting squirely all night and you keep looking around like you’re searching for somebody. What’s that about?”

Max flushed, “Ah….I think I might have a thing for Liam.”

“Wait…what?” Riley shrieked, then clapped her hands over her mouth.

“I don’t know….” Max dropped his eyes to the table. “I mean, you know, he’s hot or whatever.”

“Max!” She slapped his shoulder. “Since when? And why didn’t you tell me?”

He shrugged. “Just recently I’ve started to notice him more, that’s all. He’s always being nice to me and- “

“He’s nice to everyone.”

“I know, but it’s more than that! I can’t explain it, okay? It’s just…the way he looks at me sometimes….”

“I have never seen you act shy before! You hit on that model last week!”

“Oh, him? Yeah, but that was just--”

“That man is an international star, and you had zero qualms asking for his snap.”

“I know, but- “

“And he gave it to you!”

“Sure, but Liam isn’t just a pretty face, Riley! He’s so fucking smart and serious. He’s sophisticated, and there’s just no way he’d be into a goofball like me.”

“Ah, Maxey, anyone with half a brain would be into you.”

“You’re just saying that because you’re my best friend.”

“Yes. But also because it’s true.”

“No, it’s not. I’m the general fuckup in my family. Just ask Bertrand. Or my father.”

“Max, you’re not a fuckup!” Riley admonished. “You’re just different from your brother and father, thank God! I’m sorry, I know you love him, but Bertrand is the most boring man alive, and your father is a dick, so please don’t judge yourself by his opinion of you.”

“Bert’s not boring. He just had to grow up fast. My father put a lot of pressure on him and he, unlike me, rose to the challenge. I mean, look at us. He’s a pilot and I’m a flight attendant. Do you remember what my father said when I told him I wanted to be a flight attendant?”

“Yes, but on the bright side, it was the first time he acknowledged your sexual orientation.”

Max snorted, “That’s not funny, Riley.”

“You laughed.”

He bumped her shoulder with his own with an amused shake of his head, “If your point is that my father is a homophobic, controlling, abusive asshole whose opinion should mean nothing to me or anyone else with a lick of self-respect, then point taken.” He lifted his glass to her.

She lifted hers and tapped it into his with a grin. “My work here is done. Now go over there and ask him to shoot darts or something.”

***

“All right, well, this has been fun, but I’m going up to bed now.” Liam pushed away from the table and stood up, stretching as he did so.

“You really are a stick in the mud,” Drake laughed as the server cleared their table and asked if he could get them anything else. “Yeah, an unopened bottle of what we’ve been drinking tonight.”

Liam turned to go but froze as a voice that sent heat shocking through him spoke, “Hey…Liam….you wanna…go play darts or something?”

He turned to find Max smiling at him. Trying to push down the rising panic in his throat, his eyes flicked to Drake, who just gave him an amused smile, then back to Max, who looked uncharacteristically nervous. “Uh…. sure.”

“Great!” Relief washed across Max’s features. Then he remembered himself and begrudgingly turned to include Drake in the invitation. “Would you like to join us?”

“Nah, I’m good. You two go ahead. I’ve got a bottle of top-shelf whiskey, and this hotel has steak on their room service menu. I’ll be fine.”

“Okay then, goodnight and Merry Christmas,” Liam didn’t meet Drake’s eyes as he waved bye and then followed Max to the dart boards lined up against the far wall.

Drake chuckled to himself as he took the bottle from the server and thrust a handful of bills at him. He started for the door, then thought better of it and backtracked to the bar, reaching across and grabbing a clean tumbler to take to his room with him.

He had to dodge a bunch of drunk people on his way back, causing him to veer off course until he was damn near on the other side of the room.

It wasn’t so much that he saw her as he felt her presence. His head lifted and his eyes somehow went straight to her despite the dozen or so people between him and the table she was seated at. Without making a conscious decision, his body angled in her direction, and he made his way over to her, reminding himself the whole way that he didn’t get involved with coworkers.

#cordonianroyalairlines #trr au #the royal romance #drake x mc #drake walker #liam rys #maxwell beaumont #liam x max #christmas 2023 #drake x riley #choices fic writers creations #cfwc fics of the week

[dcbbw]

Catch and Release

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

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

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

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

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

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

Song Inspo: Fine Line, Harry Styles

Pairings: Liam x Riley, Drake x Riley

Rating: M for Mature for a smallish, unripe lemon

Word Count: 3,213

I can’t breathe.

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

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

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

Just candles.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Regret. Not remorse.

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

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

The rumors weren’t so unfounded after all.

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

She has no choice.

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

The wedding is in one week.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

All while Riley spent the night with another man.

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

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

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

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

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

I smoked a celebratory cigar with Drake.

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

Now ... I’m heartbroken.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

And apparently, best friends.

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

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

She has the decency to look ashamed.

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

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

I find the lack of apology perturbing.

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

Riley is the only winner here.

And I don’t care.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Kismet.

The Masquerade Ball

Hedge Maze

Cronuts

Forgotten Falls

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

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

Coronation Night

Fydelia

Barn Raising

Italy

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

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

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

The scene I walked in on.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

But they strike a nerve, sparking hope.

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

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

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

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

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

I wonder if I’m making a mistake.

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

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

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

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

And I let her go.

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

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

#dcbbw writes #trr au fanfic #liam x riley #drake x riley #writer on tumblr #it's been 84 years

[angelasscribbles]

Victim of Love Chapter 6: Quagmire

Series: Victim of Love

Fandom: The Royal Romance

Pairings: Liam x Riley (for now), Drake x Riley

Word Count: 1,404

Rating: MA

A/N: This is not sweet, canon Liam. Things are complicated. He might be a little selfish in this one.

Warnings for this chapter: None really. A very heated argument lol.

Song Inspiration for series: Victim of Love by The Eagles

I see a broken heart

You got your stories to tell

My other stuff: Master List.

Drake was afraid that lunch with Liam was going to be awkward, all things considered. But it wasn’t. They quickly fell back into the old, familiar patterns of their friendship. The teasing, the bantering, and the habit of telling each other everything.

Well, almost everything.

Drake squirmed uncomfortably when Liam asked about his love life. He decided to evade rather than lie, “Probably less complicated than yours.”

“Probably,” Liam mused as he lifted his water glass to his lips, “I haven’t seen Riley in weeks and last night, she wouldn’t even let me touch her!”

“What?” Drake almost choked on the forkful of potatoes he had just stuck in his mouth. That news made him happier than it should have.

Liam set his glass on the table and pushed it away with a sigh, “She’s angry. I don’t blame her, all things considered, but-“

“What is the story there?” Drake had paused chewing, eyes locked on his best friend as he waited for answers.

“As I told you, the council wouldn’t approve her nor would my father.”

“Because she’s a commoner?” He remembered Liam had told him that much at the wedding.

Liam nodded, “Yes.”

Drake placed his fork on his plate and leaned back in his chair as he regarded his friend solemnly, “And there was nothing you could do? No negotiations? No loopholes? I mean…clearly, she’s a duchess now…”

There were always loopholes.

Liam shrugged, “If Riley hadn’t existed, then my decision would have been easy. You’ve seen my wife. She’s not exactly hard to look at and she was raised for ruling. She handles the role well.”

“So what? You wanted to have your cake and eat it too?” 

“Is that so bad?”

Drake’s mouth fell open, “I mean…it doesn’t seem fair to either woman.”

“I’m surprised at your reaction, it’s nothing you don’t do.”

“What isn’t?”

“Sleeping with multiple partners.”

“That’s true but I’m not in a committed relationship.”

“Are you saying that if you found the right woman, you would give up all the others?”

Emerald eyes swam through his head as he nodded, “I would.”

Liam scoffed, “I’m not sure I believe that but regardless, you know that marrying was never about love and the commitment and duty part is all about Cordonia.”

“So you two have agreed on an open relationship?”  

“Oh, heavens no!” Liam reached for a roll, “Can you imagine the scandal if the queen had an affair?”

Drake’s brows drew together in confusion, “But you’re having an affair!”

“That’s different.”

“How?”

“First of all, because I’m the king. I can do what I want. Second of all, I can’t produce a child with the wrong parentage. She can. Even if I impregnated someone else, the public wouldn’t care. But if the queen had an illegitimate child? No. That can’t happen.”

“But-“

Liam waved his hand dismissively, “I know, I know. It seems unfair, but it’s the way of the world. I don’t make the rules.”

“You’re literally the king, you ass.” Drake shook his head half in amusement and half in disbelief.  

“Even that has it’s limits.”

“So, your wife doesn’t know about Riley?”

“I wouldn’t say that….”

“And Riley is okay with your marriage?”

“I wouldn’t say that either,” Liam sighed, “It’s….complicated.”

The door to the private dining room opened and Drake choked on his food again as Liam sprang to his feet.

Riley went willingly into Liam’s embrace, but her eyes zeroed in on Drake as she returned the hug. Turning her head to the side so Liam’s kiss landed on her cheek, she greeted them both with, “Good morning.”

Liam chuckled, “it’s afternoon, love. This is lunch.”

“For you,” Riley scoffed as she took a seat at the table, “first meal of the day is breakfast no matter what time it’s served.”

“Riley tends to burn the midnight oil,” Liam explained as he retook his seat.

“I’m a raging night owl, he means,” she smiled at Drake and his heart somehow managed to plummet and soar at the same time.

Drake cleared his throat as he reached for his water glass, “I wasn’t aware you’d be joining us.”

“Liam insisted,” she paused as a server placed a dish in front of her then spoke to her plate as she pushed the food around with her fork, “sorry I was late. I was a bit hung over this morning.”

“I want you two to get to know each other!” Liam interjected.

Riley’s eyes lifted from her plate to meet Drakes; her gaze laden with amused irony.

“Ah…I….” Drake had never been struck speechless before, but then he’d never been in such an awkward situation.

He was saved from answering when the door to the dining room opened again. The queen strode into the room, fury etched on every feature of her face, “I knew I’d find you with her!”

Riley’s fork clattered to her plate as an exaggerated sigh escaped her, “Just fucking peachy…”

Liam was on his feet again, “Darling, you’re supposed to be resting-“

“How can I rest when I know she’s here?” the new arrival leaned around Liam’s body to glare at Riley, “It’s bad enough when you disappear for days at a time to Valtoria, or she follows you to Paris but here you are carrying on under my own roof!”

Riley turned in astonishment, “Are you serious right now? After what you did to me?”

“What I did to you? You’re the one fucking my husband even though you know I’m pregnant and shouldn’t be placed under any undo stress! Have you no shame?”

“Me?” Riley pushed away from the table and strode toward the other woman, shoving past Liam as she went, “You’re the one that married the man I loved even though you were supposed to be my best friend!”

“I was your best friend, Riley! But I was sent here for a specific purpose, and I fulfilled that purpose!”

“Oh really, Hana? Don’t pretend that you gave a shit about what your parents wanted…you married him to punish me for not returning your feelings!”

Hana stumbled back like she’d been hit, “That’s an outrageous accusation!”

Riley scoffed, “It’s the truth! Two nights before the coronation you tried to get me to run away with you and when I told you that I was in love with Liam, you-“

“Riley, please,” Liam reached for her arm in an attempt to defuse the situation.

She jerked her arm out of his grasp and spun on him, “Fuck you Liam! You didn’t even try to fight for us and out of everyone you could have chosen, you picked my best fucking friend!”

Hana’s voice shook with outrage, “If you were my friend, Riley, you wouldn’t be sleeping with my husband!”

“If you were my friend, Hana, you wouldn’t have married the man that had already made promises to me! The man that fucked me in the hedge maze five minutes before getting engaged to you!”

Hana’s body jerked back at the revelation and a malicious smile spread across Riley’s face, “Oh, you didn’t know about that, huh?”

Hana’s face darkened even more as her eyes filled with angry tears, “I….you’re lying!”

“Sure I am,” Riley’s composure was back, “Keep telling yourself that because we both know he won’t tell the truth about a goddamn thing!”

Riley turned and headed for the door, “Fuck both of you! You deserve each other!”

Liam started to go after her, “Riley, wait!”

Hana stepped in front of him, “Liam! Are you serious right now? You’re going to chase after your whore? I’m your wife!”

Drake, who had sat watching the whole exchange with wide eyes scrambled to his feet. Clamping a hand on Liam’s shoulder, he told him, “It’s okay, deal with your wife. Stress can’t be good for the baby….I’ll go after Riley.”

“But…you barely know her…”

“You’re right. I just met her. But it doesn’t seem like she’s in the mood to deal with you right now, does it?”

Liam’s shoulders slumped as he blew out a breath of frustration, “You’re right. Thank you, Drake.”

“Sure,” he said as he headed for the door.

Don’t thank me. I don’t deserve it.

He threw a glance over his shoulder as he exited the dining room. Liam had Hana wrapped in his arms.

Drake shook his head as let the door fall shut and took off down the hall after Riley.

#victim of love #angelasscribbles #trr au #drake walker #drake x mc #drake x riley #the royal romance #trr #the royal romance fanfic #choices fic writers creations #cfwc fics of the week #choices #liam rys #choices stories you play

[txemrn]

Pour Two Glasses

Chapter 5: "... Wake Me Up When It's Over..."

Need to catch up? Masterlist

✨ Have you checked out this teaser video yet? Pour Two Glasses Teaser✨

Word Count: 3935 (+/-)

Series Synopsis:In the midst of a violent political war, Queen Riley Rys’s life is dismantled overnight, forcing her to flee Cordonia to live in hiding as a commoner with a loyal, best friend

Series Song Inspo: “Pour Two Glasses” by the Movielife

Chapter Song Inspo: "Wake Me Up" by Tommee Profitt ft. Fleurie (Avicii cover)

Series Warnings: 🔞 For Mature Audiences Only 🔞angst; profanity; major character death; grief and mental health discussion; discussion of violence & war; alcohol use; NSFW material

A/N: Characters and some plot references belong to our friends at Pixelberry. Big projects like this often takes a village of cheerleaders, barnstormers, listeners and readers. I am so blessed to have such a supportive village--huge thanks to y'all for making this story come to life! This was not beta'd, so please excuse my errors.

A/N 2: It's been a while, so how about a quick review? *clears throat* Previously on Pour Two Glasses... Sensing her need to be close to her husband, Drake coordinates for Riley to sleep each night of Liam's Royal Wake next to his closed casket; he also gives her a necklace to wear that holds Liam's wedding ring and signet ring; Riley and Drake have a heart-to-heart, which included the intimate story of the promise Liam and Riley made to each other: a promise to "pour two glasses"; after the funeral, a member of the 'Les Combattants de la Liberté' (the same coups that shot down Liam's plane) opens fire during Liam's funeral procession in an attempt to assassinate the queen. Despite Drake's efforts, Riley is shot.

~🖤~

"Ahhh! Fuck!" Drake grimaces, holding pressure to his left arm as blood seeps violently from his fresh bullet wound. Sucking in a sharp breath from the pain, he glances to his right where he had pushed Riley down, and hopefully out of the way.

Her body lies completely still as a pool of deep rouge grows from under her petite, lifeless frame.

"Brooks?" He stretches his neck in hopes of a glimpse of her face, but the abrupt shock of sharp torment in his shoulder knocks the air from his lungs. Anxiously panting, he glances back at Riley, realizing she remains motionless to the sound of her name. “Fuck,” he mutters. “Riley!” He frantically searches for a way to get closer to her. He peers at his injured shoulder and his crimson-stained fingers, weighing the options that don't exist on borrowed time that has already expired.

He grabs the collar of his shirt, bunching up the material in his palm before biting down on it. He rolls onto his stomach, his screams of torment muffled into his makeshift gag as he gnashes his teeth. With his good arm, he army-crawls on his side, pulling himself across the pavement with his elbow. The balls of his feet push to propel him, all the while he moans in agony.

His body finally gives out from the misery. "Brooks? Brooks?" He gruffly pants. He lays flat on the ground, reaching to her sprawled out hand with his unaffected arm. He nudges against her skin, but she doesn't move. His fingers find her wrist; he feels a weak, slow pulse.

"Goddammit!" Drake cries out in pain as he sits himself up. "No–no–no… Riley!" Groaning in anguish, he single-handedly pulls her body to himself, propping her head up in his lap. He tenderly peels the blood-drenched wisps off of her cheeks and forehead. Her head suddenly lolls back, her neck extended across his thigh with her pale lips agape. "Riley!" Tears flood his eyes, "No…" Surveying her body, he notices two bullet wounds to her left shoulder near her chest. 

Near her heart.

Drake turns to the other guards that are tending to a few critically wounded people in the otherwise desolate courtyard. "We need help over here!" He cradles Riley's head as he watches the color drain from her face. "Don't do this, Brooks,” he growls, “Don't you dare fucking do this.” He sobs angrily, gripping firmly to the fabric of her dress. "You can't leave me, too…"

------

A crisp gentle breeze catches her brunette waves in a delicate waltz of silk and sunshine. The softness of the evergreen grass tickles her toes as she ventures through the fragrant blooms. Somewhere amongst the fresh harvest of Cordonian rubies, a handsome melody echoes across the meadow, a deep baritone that Riley instantly recognizes.

“Liam?” Her steps begin to quicken as she searches behind the bark and the bend. “Liam?” Her voice is earnest and hungry as her widened, ocean-blue eyes survey the area for even just a glimpse of his beauty. She grips the sides of her skirt, lifting the hem to her hips as her feet become more swift amongst the uniform rows of bountiful trees.

As she approaches a knoll, a large shadow grants her body brevity from the warm sun. She brings a hand to her forehead, shielding the brightness from her eyes. She strains to make out the broad shapes and chiseled lines of the man standing before her, but she knows it's him. His eyes shimmer with the brilliance of the Mediterranean, his skin like the soft sands of Nissi.

“My love,” he smiles endearingly at her; he cups two filled wine flutes in one large hand as he extends his arm out towards her, his open palm ready to take her into his arms.

“My king,” she breathes, her heart swelling at the very presence of him. She drops her skirt. She draws closer to him as a smile brightly bubbles across her lips. It’s him; it’s really him.

But as their fingertips almost touch, Riley missteps. She trips over an imperfection in the terrain as she falls to her knees, her hands catching her on the ground. As she looks back to her husband, he is gone.

“No,” she whispers as she frantically scours the rolling hills around her. Empty. Not a single trace of life. Riley is alone. “No–no–no… Liam?”  She spins wildly around, searching for him. But suddenly, she hears an ear-piercing crackle like thunder.

And then another. 

A searing pain abruptly burns deep into her shoulder and chest, knocking her off her feet. The impact of the fall robs her of the air in her lungs. In a state of panic, she begins gasping for air, but the rise and fall of her chest makes her whimper, tears collecting in her eyes. 

"Liam?" She tries to scream, but can only muster a rough whisper. "Someone? Please?"

Riley tries to sit up, but an intense scorch of discomfort stuns her to lay back amongst the long blades of grass. Her mouth falls open from the sensation, but only silent sobs pour from her lips.

With a trembling hand, she carefully touches her fingertips to the painful area of her chest. Biting her lip to stifle her screams, she feels a thick oozing of warm fluid escaping her shoulder, flowing between her fingertips.

Blood.

"Help," she strains, but her words falter as her eyelids fall heavier with each blink. 

She hugs her body with her other arm as the breeze suddenly feels frigid against her pale skin. Her breathing becomes more rapid, each inhale growing laborious, more challenging than the last.

'Anyone?' Riley mouths as she grows still. The light in her eyes falls dim, her lashes fluttering as they begin to close.

Stillness.

Darkness.

Suddenly a large, calloused hand squeezes tightly to her petite weak fingers.

"Brooks," a deep, trembling whisper calls to her, "it–it's going to be okay, baby. Hang in there." A sense of relief rushes over her; hearing the familiar gritty voice comforts her, grounding her back with reality.

Riley can hear a soft shrill of metal on metal from squeaky wheels underneath her. She feels a light current of air swishing across her body as if she is being moved rapidly. The pungent smell of medical-grade antiseptic with the slight undertone of decay hits her nostrils, reminding her instantly of the night she had to identify her husband’s remains.

She tries to speak, but her mouth refuses to move; even her whimpers fall silent, unable to get anyone’s attention. She tries to grip onto the hand that is holding her fingers, but despite her effort, nothing moves.

As she relaxes her body, an excruciating pain suddenly penetrates through her torso, an inexplicable affliction of torment tearing through every last nerve, leaving her senseless, breathless, motionless.

An abrupt alarm of rapid analog chimes begins to whistle.

"Heart rate 152. We need to move, people…"

Riley's eyes flicker open to blurred fluorescent lights, flashing obnoxiously into her field of vision. She hears a twisted garble of concerned voices around her, but can barely make out the faces of the strangers surrounding her.  

"Hang another liter of NS. Go ahead and draw up fifty of hydromorphone…"

"...BP 88/42…"

"... prep OR six…"

"... order four units of O neg…"

The swift movements around her makes her stomach turn as the searing discomfort ravages throughout her chest. She grimaces, her eyelids shutting at the furrow of her brows.

Suddenly, she feels a pinch, like a tiny sharp prick of pressure pushed into the swell of her thigh.  A warming sensation follows, infiltrating through the area before finally swimming briskly through her body.

"Hydromorphone with Phenergan 25 in…"

The room begins to swirl into nothingness, the chatter falling into silence. Her hand falls limp, no longer able to feel Drake's tight grip on her fingertips. No more background noise; no more strange smells. Like falling into the deep end of the ocean, a single, high-pitched shrill rings incessantly in Riley's ears as she flails her arms and legs into the blackness. She finally clenches her eyes shut, terrified of the loneliness, terrified of the struggle, terrified of the emptiness.

Stillness.

Darkness.

Until a warm glow grazes her skin.

A gentle caress of her cheek leads to a tender stroke of a thumb across her full bottom lip.

Riley's eyes cautiously flit open.

And she gasps.

"Liam?"

------

"Sir, this is as far as you can go."

Though he understands hospital safety protocols, Drake scoffs as Riley's hand is pulled away from his grasp. An abrupt loneliness tugs at his heart as he watches the gurney rapidly wheel down the white sterile hallway. As his left arm hangs limp, Drake drags his fingers down his face, swallowing a sob. Will this be his last memory of her alive?

He feels his chest begin to dramatically rise and fall, his breathing becoming quicker as his expression contorts into remorseful anger. He was supposed to protect her. He promised her–shit, he promised Liam that he would look after her, and now Riley is fighting for her life.

As Drake's jaw trembles, a petite hand tenderly pats his unaffected shoulder. He jerks around to find a familiar raised eyebrow, her piercing jades sympathizing instantly with his downcast stare. “Liv,” he whispers, a crooked smile flashing across his lips as his face twists with emotions. “You’re… here. You’re… you're okay,” he chuckles into a choked cry.

Noticing the sincerity of his tone, Olivia Nevrakis’s typical stone-cold presence melts into something more human and warm.  She smirks, holding her arms outstretched. "Come here, big guy," she snickers, waving him into her embrace. “You know that even rogue militant coups can’t get rid of me that easily.” The longtime friends squeeze each other more snuggly; though they might not always see eye-to-eye, they silently gesture in agreement that life is better together.

“Christ on a Kraken! Riley is never going to believe this.”

Drake turns towards the cheerful, flamboyant voice. He casually tosses his head to the side, his chestnut fringe cascading out of his field of vision. The corners of his mouth curl, grateful to see the youngest Beaumont brother alive and well with no obvious injuries.  

"Hey, man," Drake reaches out to take Maxwell's hand, pulling him into a brotherly embrace.

"We were so worried. I thought you were dead," his breath hitches in his chest, "and–and Riley…" The young lord succumbs to his tears, unable to speak. Drake endearingly pats his friend on the back as he flashes a knowing look to Olivia.

"I'm fine, Max," Drake mutters, signaling for him to let go. 

"Have you even been seen by a doctor yet?" Maxwell looks at the crimson gore, dried across the guard's once pristinely pressed suit.

"Not yet. I–" he freezes as he peers down the now empty corridor, the last place he saw her, the last place he touched her. The last place he felt her life in his own hands. A large lump forms in his throat as the horrific scene plays in his head.

The definitive cocking of the chamber of a glock; the smell of smoke and blood in the air; the unraveling of fearful screams of hopeless onlookers… 

"Riley! Look out!"

He tried to shield her; he tried to protect her. He tried to save her.

Was he too late?

The queen's guard shakes his head, staggering away from his friends, willing the sting of his tears away. He already lost his very best friend almost a month ago; he can't lose Liam's wife, too.

"She's strong, Walker–"  Drake stops in his tracks, turning to the fiery red head that fell into step with him walking down the hallway. He leans up against the wall, shoving a hand in his pocket as his head falls forward in anguish.

"I just… I feel so fucking guilty, ya know?” he mutters under his breath. “I was supposed to be there for Liam–I should’ve been there with him, and Riley?" He looks away, blinking away tears. “It should’ve been me–"

"No," Olivia interjects sternly. "Don't go there. You are not responsible for his death. And Riley?”  She takes Drake’s face between her palms, commanding his attention to focus on her words. "She will survive this–'

"I should've been there–"

"And you were," she interrupts. "Drake, she would've been killed if you hadn't intervened when you had."

"You saved her life, man," Maxwell tearfully steps forward, holding out a cup of coffee for the guard. "She's been through a hell of a lot worse." They all chuckle knowingly with one another. "She's going to survive this," Maxwell states encouragingly as he dabs away his tears.

Olivia nods in solidarity, looking towards Drake. "She will."

Drake stares at his styrofoam coffee cup before bringing it to his lips. "She has to," he breathes before taking a sip.

"Cmon, buddy," Maxwell's mouth begins to curl as he slaps Drake on his wounded shoulder. "Let's get you checked out–"

"Ow!" Drake roars, "Limp dick motherfffff–!" Drake bites his tongue as he shields his arm.

"Oh, there he is," Olivia snickers to herself, taking a seat in the waiting room. "I was concerned he left his balls next to his snuff in the back pocket of his Wranglers."

—---

Tangled in sheets of silk, Riley cradles Liam's head against her bare chest. He kisses tender pecks along her velveteen skin, her fingers mindlessly combing through his golden waves. 

Coming down from their euphoric bliss of making love, the gentle warmth of intimacy saturates the air. A soft hum escapes Riley's lungs as she is overwhelmed with the desire to cry streams of joy. To be at peace again. To feel whole again. To be herself again.

This is perfect. Too perfect. Riley had craved for weeks now to have just one more moment, one more breath with her beloved. And now…

Is this really happening? 

She presses her lips into his disheveled, blond hair, breathing in his intoxicating scent. His fingertips graze across her shoulders and down the slope of her full breast, his familiar touch igniting a scattering of goosebumps across her body. But when Liam looks up at her with his hungry gaze, his crystal blue stare that rivals the Northern Lights, relief floods her senses.

I'm home.

Biting her bottom lip, Riley guides her husband up her body until he's lying face-to-face with her, their longing stares never breaking from one another. She delicately traces the angles of his jaw, the contours of his neck until finally resting her palms in the scatter of hair on his chest.   

She rests her head against his body, her fingers lacing with his.

"Liam," she exhales as she listens to the rhythmic pulse of his heart. "I've missed you." Her words softly shudder against her stifled sobs, tears coursing down the curve of her nose. She nuzzles her forehead into him, wanting to be closer, deeper with him, thirsty to drink every last drop of him.

"Please tell me this is it," she flutters her eyes close, his large hands draped across her back. "Please tell me this is where our forever starts."

Feeling his piercing stare on her, Riley instantly meets his mouth in a searing kiss. She slips her tongue between his full lips as the passion continues to burn between them. 

Riley guides him to lay on his back, straddling his broad physique as their tongues continue to caress in steady pulses. She nips at him, coaxing for more.  Gently rocking her hips, Riley sits up on her husband, his length pushing against her slick folds. Taking his large, rugged hands in hers, they cup her peaking breasts, fondling them together.

"I love you," Riley moans into the darkness as her desire builds for her husband once more. 

But then she stops.

She looks back to Liam's handsome face. And a sudden chill runs down her back.

He didn't say, 'I love you'...

"Love," Riley grips one of his hands, bringing it to her lips to kiss. "Is this okay? Are–are you okay?"

He doesn't answer.

An uncomfortable coldness floods her veins as a familiar burning sensation grows in her lower left shoulder.

"Liam?" She shakes his body. "Liam baby, please," her eyes begin to water, "please talk to me." 

Riley glances around the dark room; it looks like their royal quarters, but deep in her heart, she abruptly knows she's far from home. 

And far from Liam.

And like an old film reel, the fantasy around her begins to burn away, slowly at first as a blinding light pierces through the darkness.

"This… this isn't real, is it?" She trembles, bringing his hand to her heart. "Please, baby…" the room becomes stifling as Riley begins to gasp for air, her husband’s touch nothing but a phantom pain. "Please don't leave me again…"

Suddenly, Riley feels like she's choking as a soreness forms promptly in her throat.

"That's it, your majesty," the assured voice of a stranger calls out to her. "We're done with your surgery. Take some nice big breaths for us."

Riley barely peeks through her heavy eyelids, but her stormy blues are instantly met with the brazen shine of surgical spotlights. And she grimaces, discomfort etching across her delicate features.

"Good job. Take another breath."

The queen can feel something weighted and quite warm being folded across her frigid body. Suddenly, she feels soft fabric engulfing her toes, then her feet.

Where am I?

"Let's get you some Fentanyl and the rest of your Zofran for the ride, your majesty."

Abruptly to her arm, she feels a twinge of heat expanding in her veins, traveling first to her shoulder before dispersing across her body. The panic that was building in her nerves subsides as she relaxes into a subtle snore. And then into nothingness all over again.

—---

"Rise and shine, little blossom…"

Hearing the muffled, yet familiar whisper of her dear friend, Riley cautiously opens one eye. But in an instant, she closes it. Her eyebrows knit together, the burn from the bright sunlight too much for her right now.

“Max?” She croaks softly, her lips dry and cracked. “Maxwell?” She makes a small effort to move, but a sudden ache knocks her back onto her bed. She mouths the word ‘Ow’ as she slowly reaches up towards her injured shoulder with a trembling hand. 

“Shhh, Riley,” Maxwell tenderly pats her arm. “I’m gonna go get someone. I’ll be right back.”  With a squeeze of her fingers, Maxwell takes off to the nurse’s station.

Feeling the agonizing pulse in her left shoulder, Riley tries to open her eyes again.  Everything remains a blur as her eyes dart to the glass door. Two large men stand just outside the windows like perfect statues on either side of the frame, wearing what appears to be… guard uniforms?

“Drake…?” She tries to call out, assuming he's one of the men, but the hoarseness of her voice silences her attempt as she winces at her sore throat. Where am I? She frantically peers around her bed, noticing a collection of monitors and clear bags of fluids, all attached to her body with various cords and wires. 

What happened?

Riley’s head feels a bit swimmy, dizzy from the heavy medications she has been given, not to mention the anesthesia slowly dissipating from her body. She was trying to put the puzzle pieces back together, fact versus fiction. Each part played like a vignette in her memory. 

Laying in bed with Liam… The airplane crash… Giving herself a progesterone shot... Sneaking into the church with Drake…  Dancing at the award ceremony.  Gunshots…

Had it all been a dream?

Suddenly, her eyes widen with realization, wishful-thinking blooming across her face. It was a dream.  Noticing a big red button on the bed with the word ‘Nurse’, Riley frantically presses it. A jolt of hope bursts within her chest. 

It was just a dream– a terrible dream– but just a dream.

The sliding glass door to her ICU room hurriedly rolls open, an older nurse with peppered short hair hurries in with Maxwell hot on her tail.  “Well, well… look who’s finally awake!” She smiles kindly, her hazel gaze sparkling with genuine joy. “Your majesty, my name is Vangie, and it has been an honor to care for you through your recovery–”

“Recovery?” Riley looks to Maxwell with curiosity.

“You have two nurses that have been assigned to specifically care for you per the guard's protocol,” Maxwell informs as he takes a seat next to Riley’s bed, gently grabbing her hand. “Vangie here is your night nurse, and she has been incredible.”

Riley turns to the nurse, giving her an uncertain half grin before giving her attention back to Maxwell. “But… what is going on? Why–why am I here?”

Maxwell grips tightly to her fingers, a pensive-look crossing his features.  “You’re in the hospital, Ri. You had surgery–”

“Surgery?” 

“Yes, your majesty.” Vangie finishes administering medications into Riley’s IV before glancing back to her queen. “You’re quite lucky, actually.  You lost a lot of blood, and it was touch-and-go our first night together, but you have pulled through nicely–” her pager suddenly beeps, a slight annoyance flashes in her eyes. “My apologies, your majesty,” she bows, “I need to take this.”

Riley gently nods, offering a soft smile before turning back to Maxwell. He sweetly leans over her, resting his elbow on her bed as he pushes away stray hairs on her face.  “I’m so glad you’re finally awake. I've been so worried.”

Riley’s eyebrows furrow, an expression of confusion falls over her as she glances around the room. “Maxwell, I–” she cinches her eyes closed in frustration, “how long have I been out?”

“A good part of three days.” His words drip with worry, “They said the injuries you sustained were pretty severe, but thank God, one of the bullets missed your heart by two millimeters–”

“Bullets?”

Maxwell pauses inquisitively. “You don’t remember much, do you?” 

Riley chews on her lip, shaking her head.

“That’s honestly a good thing,” he sighs heavily.

“Max,” she softly pleas, “please… tell me?”

Maxwell sits up in his chair, combing his fingers through the relaxed style of his hair. “Ri, you just woke up. I think you should get some more rest before we dive into what happened. Heck, Olivia and Drake will be back in the morning, and we can–”

“--and Liam?”

Maxwell freezes, the color draining from his face at the mention of his dear friend and king.  He swallows thickly. “Wh–what about him?”

“Is he–?” She presses the heel of her hand against her forehead. “I must sound like a lunatic,” she chuckles anxiously, “but… it’s all bleeding together, these thoughts in my head spiraling and mixing reality with fantasy. I feel like when I’m awake, I’m dreaming, and when I’m dreaming, I’m awake, and–I mean, I just…” She tosses her hands on the bed, another titter escaping her throat as tears prick her eyes. “The airplane crash, the funeral, his casket… please tell me the truth.”

Maxwell’s breath hitches, causing a sobering chill to overwhelm Riley.  Of all the images flashing through her mind–the morgue, champagne in the orchard, his wedding ring on a necklace–she had hopes that maybe–just maybe– the worst of them all was actually a nightmare, that maybe Maxwell can ground her back into reality, that maybe—

“My husband… ?”

A wave of sorrow pours onto Maxwell's features as his ever-optimistic expression drains. And he shakes his head.

It wasn’t a dream. 

~🖤~

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------

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

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[flowerpowelltales]

Like Fall, Like Spring (Drake x MC)

PART TWENTY ONE - FINALE + EPILOGUE

A/N: don’t touch me, i’m not okay 😭😭😭 i’m going to miss my babies! please read till the end!

Drake ate in silence and Riley waited. He surely needed to address his storming out and then being MIA for almost a whole day, right?

When he was finished and still made no attempt to say anything, Riley sighed and began collecting empty plates. Just as she reached for his mug, he grabbed her arm and made her look at him. 

“Are you okay?” She asked.

“I should be asking you the same thing, actually.” He rubbed his temple with his other, free, hand. “I left without saying anything but Leona hurt you too. I’m sorry.”

“No, don’t be. It was a lot to take in. And she’s your family.”

“She should be yours too.” Drake let go of her arm and clenched both of his fists. “I needed time to think. It’s not easy… I mean, Leona was like a second mother to me. And then like a mother and a father, when mine died. It’s hard to see her becoming… this.”

“It’s okay Drake, you don’t owe me any explanation.”

“I do. You're my wife, you were directly affected. It felt like I’m losing someone all over again. First dad. Then my mom, to depression. I only half-have her now anyway. Then Savannah ran away. She came back but she has her family now. Then you… And now Leona. I don’t want to have her in my life if she treats you like this but it’s not easy for me.”

“You don’t have to cross her out of your life, Drake. She’s still your family,” Riley said softly, rubbing his back gently. 

“So are you, Riley. And if she doesn’t want to accept you, I’m sorry. I will always choose you anyway.” He looked at her so affectionately she thought she’d cry.

“I’m sorry I didn’t choose you when I ran away. I promise I will always choose you, too. Always, Drake. You are my family. My whole world.” She was crying and Drake stood up and pulled her into his arms. 

“Shh, it’s okay, baby, it’s okay.”

“I’m so– so– sorry,” she said through sobs. 

“I forgave you, a long time ago. Please, forgive yourself, too,” he whispered and kissed her forehead. 

They stayed like that, embracing and gently swaying to the music of their hearts, for a few minutes before Riley remembered something.

“Drake!”

“Hmh?”

“I forgot to tell you something! I– When Leona said those things about me, about the dog being still in the U.S., me having a job in New York, I–I do have my dog with Ellen, true, but only because she really likes him and wants to have someone around. And about the job…”

“You don’t owe me an explanation,” he repeated what she said just minutes before.

“I do. You’re my husband and you need to know. I declined the job in New York. Long time ago but it doesn’t matter. That’s what I wanted to talk to you about. I… I found a job, actually.”

“You did?” He pulled back a little to look her in the eyes.

“I had a crazy idea… I talked to Hana and… Hana and I are starting our own pastry shop! We found a place, talked to lawyers and owners and everything so it’s all legit and we have the green light! I mean, now that we’re no longer nobility we need to support ourselves and since I wanted to become a baker when I was younger I thought that was a great chance and Hana is an amazing baker so it could actually work and I know I never really asked you about your permission and maybe you had other plans and now I feel very stupid but I don’t want you to think I was hiding anything because–”

“Riley, hey, relax. Take a breath. Pastry shop, huh?”

“Yeah. Are you mad?” She asked.

“Mad? That my wife is fulfilling her childhood dream? That she starts a career of her own? That I’ll probably have lots of yummy things for free? Are you mad?”

Riley laughed, relief spreading through her body. “You can have anything you want. You’ll always be our most treasured customer.”

Drake smiled and leaned to kiss her. She melted into him, finally feeling like they were back together for good. Like they found back their missing piece and now they could be whole again. The familiarity of them overwhelmed her.

“Drake…” she moaned in between the kisses. “I…. have the best… idea… mmm.”

“What? Are we going to have dessert now?” He asked and she couldn’t help but roll her eyes slightly.

“No, but maybe later.” This time she pulled away. “I thought we could celebrate? If you’re up for this?”

“Mhmm, of course we can. Come here.”

“Not like this,” she laughed. “Okay maybe that too. I thought with Maxwell, Hana, Liv, Liam and the rest of ours.”

Drake opened his eyes and raised an eyebrow. “I was thinking only the two of us…”

“And I was thinking something like renewing our vows? A small ceremony? Since our wedding was a big one? Now that we’re no longer–”

“Nobility, I know. I actually think this is a nice idea.”

“Right? A second chance wedding!” She babbled on and Drake chuckled.

“Okay, okay. I get it. You can plan it if you want but now about that dessert you mentioned earlier…”

Riley burst out laughing. “So needy!” 

But she didn’t protest any further and definitely not when Drake was showing off his ‘dessert’ skills.

~~~~

The ceremony was just like Drake and Riley wanted. Small. Intimate. Romantic. Cozy. Only their closest friends were invited, Ellen came and brought Lasse with her while Bianca declined saying she wasn’t feeling too well. Leona, for obvious reasons, was banned from coming. Drake protested wholeheartedly against inviting Olivia but Riley couldn’t imagine that day without her. After all, it was Liv that helped them get back together. Even if unintentionally.

The vows were renewed, Drake and Riley kissed as a husband and wife and they moved to the Valtoria gardens where the party began. Even though she wasn’t a Duchess anymore, she really liked the gardens of her duchy and Liam helped her organize the ceremony there.

After a few hours of dancing, eating and talking, Riley stood with Drake and watched Savannah and Bertrand running after Bartie, who was trying to mimic Maxwell’s crazy dance moves. 

“How does he have so much energy? I’m beat!” Riley exclaimed, rubbing her back. 

“He’s still a kid.”

“No, not Bartie. Maxwell!”

“Well... Technically it applies to Max, too. Want a drink?”

“Oh yes, I think I could use a drink.”

“I’ll get it for you,” Drake said and Riley nodded. She was looking at him with a big smile on her face, until he disappeared. She turned around and noticed she wasn’t the only person following him with her eyes.

The woman was definitely not invited; at least Riley didn’t invite her. Silky blond hair, beautiful smile and a bump. When the woman turned to look at Riley and their eyes met, Riley swallowed hard.

Mary-Anne was even prettier in person.

Her face lit up and started making her way towards Riley. When she finally reached her, she extended her hand. 

“Hi, Riley!” Even her voice was attractive. Riley plastered a smile and shook Mary-Anne’s hand. How could she even compare to Drake’s ex?

“Hello.”

“I’m Mary-Anne, Drake’s friend from Texas by the way! You were probably wondering who’s that strange person bothering you,” she laughed and Riley fake-chuckled.

“Yeah, well, it’s a private party so I was a bit surprised. Drake invited you, I suppose?” She asked.

“Erm... Not really. Savannah did mention you were renewing your vows and since I couldn’t come to your wedding when Drake invited me I thought I’d come to this party. I--I’m sorry if it was a bad idea,” she added when she saw Riley pale. “I came to apologize, actually.”

“Really? What for?” Now Riley was interested.

“I... Um... Found out what Leona said about me to you. Sav called and asked if the baby’s Drake’s. Apparently that’s what Leona kept telling you. It’s not, by the way. The baby, I mean. It’s not Drake’s. It could never be.”

“Thanks... I mean, I knew it, Drake told me but thanks.”

“I felt really bad and I figured calling would be not enough so here I am. Listen, I’m sorry about Leona. She’s like that. She’s always had this vision of me and Drake married with ten kids on their family Ranch. We even tried to date to please her but we’ve always been more like siblings than lovers. And I love Leona.”

“Leona is lovable?” Riley raised a brow and Mary-Anne chuckled.

“Yes, well, I love her.   She’s the only mother I ever had. I have four older brothers and a clueless father. He had no idea how to raise a daughter. When I got my first period and stained my jeans he thought I was dying. It was Leona who taught me about those things. I know she loves me and I guess that’s why she wanted me and Drake to work out. But it’s not going to. Besides, he’s so happy with you! When you left him and he was super upset, he got drunk and I found him in a bar. You know what he did? He showed me every single photo of you on his phone and described when it was taken, where and why in so much detail I was afraid we were going to spend a week in that bar. I’ve never seen him so in love. It’s a good look on him. I’m happy you’re back together.”

“Wow, I... I don’t know what to say. Thank you for telling me, that... does make me understand Leona a bit better. But I still don’t like her,” Riley added.

“And I’m here to change your mind. I’d be mad at her too if she did this to me.” Mary-Anne shrugged.

“And the father of your baby? Leona doesn’t like him?”

“It was a mistake. My mistake. I was sad and lonely and it was a one time thing with a guy I met in a bar. I don’t even know his name but it doesn’t matter. I was actually kind of happy I got pregnant. My father never cared too much about me, my brothers have their own life and I thought I might finally have someone in my life. It was like my lil miracle. My bestie. My family.” She cradled her bump affectionately. “It’s the two of us against the world.”

“You know what?” Riley asked her suddenly, a brilliant (in her opinion) idea coming to her. “I’m so glad you came! Let me introduce you to my friends,” she said and watched Mary-Anne’s face light up. Riley took her arm and led her in the direction of Liam and Maxwell. To be fair, she only wanted to introduce her to Liam in hopes something could happen between those two but Maxwell being there too was for the best. She wouldn’t want to be too obvious.

Apparently she was too obvious though because when she turned to go back to her place, smirking, Drake was already standing there, watching her, his eyebrow raised. He handed her the drink when she reached him. 

“What are you trying to do?” He asked.

“Umm... Your friend came and I thought she was lonely so I introduced her to our friends.”

“Really? Just that?”

“Err... What else do you want me to say?”

“Riley, I’m not stupid. Are you trying to play a matchmaker? Because let me remind you, we needed therapy to work out.”

“That’s because you didn’t even know my matchmaking plan! I actually asked Liam to give us a month to work things out between us, it’s not really a legit--” she paused realizing she was about to confess to a lie. 

“I actually do know it was your plan, believe it or not.”

“What?” She asked. “How? When? Why?”

“From the moment the two of you announced it. I’m not stupid and I can think. There has never been a rule like this and will never be. Not within the Cordonian mentality.”

“And... You just went with it?”

Drake shrugged. “I was mad at you. But I did have a bit of hope that maybe it would help us. So I didn’t say anything.”

“Drake Walker! I swear you always find a way to surprise me.”

Drake smiled and pulled her towards him. “I hope I’ll never stop surprising you.”

“Mhmm,” she murmured as he kissed her cheek. “I might have to start thinking of ways to surprise you, too.”

Drake froze and pulled back. He looked at her intently for a few seconds before cracking a smile. “Maybe not. I think I had enough of your surprises in this lifetime.”

~~~~

EPILOGUE - ONE YEAR LATER

“One more!” Maxwell yelled from his seat and pointed to an empty plate.

“That would be your tenth!” Hana yelled back and Riley stifled a chuckle. She kept making coffee until she felt a pair of arms encircling her waist.

“Eek!”

“Hello, I missed you,” Drake's voice was muffled as he buried his face in Riley’s neck. 

“I missed you, too. Three days feel like three years without you,” she admitted. Drake kissed her and nodded towards coffee. 

“Got one more for your beloved husband?”

“Always. And I also put away an orange and bourbon flavored cupcake for you. Since Maxwell eats most of our supply.”

Drake laughed and the whole shop seemed to be positively vibrating with him in it. He sat down on a chair closest to the counter, ignoring Maxwell patting an empty chair beside him. 

Riley brewed Drake’s coffee (black, no cream, no sugar) and retrieved the cupcake, pretending she didn’t hear Maxwell’s gasp. She looked at her shop, her and Hana’s pastry shop and smiled. A lot of energy and effort went into their little venture but it was worth it. Hana and Riley were great partners and worked perfectly together. Riley learned a lot from Hana and Hana from Riley. Their business was flourishing, although it was to some extent thanks to Maxwell - he came every single day and ate at least seven pastries. How he kept in shape - that was the greatest mystery.

Drake also worked - he was a full time photographer now and even though he mainly took photos of different events in Corodnia, sometimes he had to go to other countries. If the job was longer than a week he took Riley with him - they didn’t want to be far from each other for too long. In between the jobs he also taught a photography course at the University of Cordonia and was considering switching to full time teaching and doing photography on the side. He felt he wanted to be home more often.

Her and Drake were also better than ever. They kept on going to therapy and worked through every single little thing together. Not only were they closer than before but also their marriage was stronger. 

There were also other changes in Cordonia. Mary-Anne and Liam were raising her almost one-year old daughter together (to Cordonian citizens’ outrage) and planning their wedding (to Cordonian citizens’ joy). Mary-Anne finally found a community that cared about her, although it wasn’t the easiest for Leona, who felt like she lost two children. 

As far as Leona was concerned, she reached out to Drake a few weeks prior, full of remorse. Drake didn't even want to listen to her but Riley insisted they work things out. They started talking, little by little. It still wasn’t a relationship Drake or Leona wanted but they were trying. 

And there was one last change. A change that no one but Riley knew about. She smiled at Drake blowing her a kiss while finishing his cupcake. She would tell him soon. She only just found out herself, but her little, approximately six-week old secret, still nestled safely in her womb, was ready to be shared with her husband. 

And she was sure it was going to be a whole different adventure.

 THE END. 

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Pssst! If you made it this far and also don’t want to say goodbye to Riley and Drake, let me know in the reblog/comments and I might have a little something for you 😏 

#the royal romance #choices #playchoices #drake walker #the royal heir #the royal finale #drake walker x mc #drake x mc #drake x riley #drake walker x riley brooks #trr #my fics #like fall like spring

[harleybeaumont]

Unintentional

Chapter 12 - Crisis

Book: The Royal Romance AU

Pairings - Liam x Maxwell, Drake x Riley

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

A/N - This story is a bit different than what I usually write.. Ok a LOT different. Some terrible things have happened during Liam's life.. But the story isn’t without humor or joy. I swear it’s not all bad! The characters are still canon in the sense of their whole overall personalities, but of course there are several changes to fit the story.

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

Word count- 2,235

Catch up here.

Chapter 12 - Crisis

Liam paced the room nervously, with Max following behind trying to get him to calm down. His chest was tight and he could barely breathe. He killed his father. He killed the King of Cordonia! And where did he put his body? His hands were clean.. Surely he didn’t bury him. This was too much and Liam dropped to the floor in anguish, his head in his hands.

“Oh god, Max.. what do I do?!”

Maxwell wrapped his arms around him, completely at a loss for words. All he could do was rub his back and hold him, trying to get him to calm down.

“I can’t believe I fell asleep without getting you to tie me up first!” Liam said angrily. “God, I’m so fucking stupid!”

“No, you're not..”

“I’m a monster! Max.. I murdered my own father!!” Liam was full on sobbing at this point. “What kind of sick person does that!? I need to turn myself in.. I need to be locked up in an institution!”

“Don't start that again!” Max grabbed Liam's face, forcing him to look at him. “Just.. don't. I can’t handle you spiraling and leaving again. Please.”

Liam groaned in frustration. “I’m sorry. I’m not leaving.. Ok? I’m not leaving. I’m just trying to figure this out.” Liam tried to take calming breaths, but it didn’t help. He ran to the bathroom and vomited.

Max pulled out his phone and dialed Drake with shaking fingers. “Hey. I know you were supposed to come pick us up this afternoon, but.. uhh.. change of plans. Can you guys meet us here and come to Liam’s room? We’re having a proper crisis.”

Not long after, Drake and Riley knocked on Liam’s door, and Max answered. Liam was still in the bathroom alternating between vomiting and sobbing.

“What’s going on?” Drake asked. “The guards are going berserk out there. They almost didn’t let us in, but Bastien vouched for us.”

Max pulled them further away from the door, into a sitting area in Liam’s suite. He spoke quietly. “Constantine is missing.”

Drake and Riley both looked at each other wide eyed. “You don’t think..” Riley asked hesitantly.

Max shrugged. “Liam’s been in the bathroom all morning. He’s completely sick over it. He thinks he killed him.”

“Oh my god.” Drake dropped his head in his hands. “How did he get out of the handcuffs?”

Max gave them a rueful look. “We fell asleep watching a movie. Liam woke up in the middle of the night and asked me to handcuff him.”

“Shit.” Drake groaned. “This is.. What are we gonna do about this?”

“It’s all I could do to stop him from turning himself in right now!”

Riley shook her head. “Well that’s out of the question..”

“Agreed.”

“Let’s just wait and see what happens.” Drake frowned as he watched a pale, sweaty Liam make his way out of the bathroom. “Maybe he’s not dead.”

Liam sighed, “Of course he is.. His son is a fucking psycho.”

“Stop, Li.” Drake walked over and put an arm around him. “Just snap out of this and get it together! The police might question you and if you’re acting this way, they'll throw you in jail for sure!”

“That’s what I deserve.”

“I��m going to slap you, Liam.. Literally slap you.” Max said as he made his way over to him. “Now you get a hold of yourself. No one in this room knows what happened to Constantine.”

“That’s true.” Riley said hesitantly. “That is actually completely and honestly true.”

“But-”

Maxwell interrupted him. “No buts! Now you get in there and take a shower and make yourself look presentable and we are going to act like everything is normal.. Because for all we know, it is.” Liam stared at Max in awe. He was surprisingly calm and collected. “But if you sit here and try to convince yourself that you did something to him, it’s going to make you guilty. And you honestly don’t know what happened. Right Liam?”

Liam nodded. “Ya.. I guess so.”

“Good. Now go shower.”

Liam obeyed, slowly making his way back into the bathroom and shutting the door. A moment later they heard the water turn on.

“Wow.” Riley looked at Max in amazement. “That was awesome! You laid down the fucking law!”

Max chuckled. “I just had to get him to snap out of it.”

“No Maxy poo, you handled that like a boss!” Riley beamed at him. “I’m so proud of you.”

Even Drake smiled, “You’re really good for him.”

Max looked at them, feeling slightly embarrassed from their praise. “You guys are going to make me cry.. I’m gonna go bring him some clothes. Be right back.”

Once Max disappeared into the bathroom, Riley glanced over at Drake. “I am feeling so many things right now..”

“Right?!”

“What do we do? Should we leave? What if they question us about Liam? I’m a really bad liar!”

“Nah.” Drake shook his head. “They won’t bother with us. We’re just here visiting our friends. That’s all.”

“Right.” Riley nodded at him. “You’re right.”

A few minutes later Liam stepped out of the bathroom, fully dressed and looking like his old self. “Anyone want lunch?”

Liam forced himself to act normal, even though he was screaming internally. He had so much practice at doing so over the years it was like falling back into a routine. The guards had the palace on lockdown, and police were searching the grounds, questioning everyone. The press were parked outside of the palace gates, trying to get a glimpse of what was going on. Liam finally saw his mother when he went into the kitchen for lunch. She was leaning against Leo, crying softly.

She rushed over and gave him a huge hug. Liam pretended that he was sad about his father for her sake. If he was sad about anything, it was that he caused his mother pain.

“I’m sure he’s ok, mother.” Liam said as he hugged her tightly, giving Leo a doubtful look over her shoulder. Leo returned the look, shaking his head. 

She sniffled, pulling away. “I just don’t understand where he would have gone. The last time I spoke with him was last night, and believe me, he did not want to leave.”

Liam tried not to roll his eyes as he realized why. Of course Constantine didn’t want to leave. He wanted to be there to watch his queer son and his boyfriend get thrown out of the palace, and see his wife served divorce papers. Sick fucker.

Eleanor shook her head sadly. “Well, there’s nothing we can do at the moment.. Let me fix you all some lunch.”

“No mother, just sit and relax.”

“Liam.” She grabbed his hands. “Just let me do this. Let me feel useful right now.”

Liam nodded and he and his friends sat at the table somberly.

The police questioned everyone separately. Liam and Max had already rehearsed what they were going to say. They fell asleep watching a movie and didn’t wake up until morning when Bastien knocked at the door. Drake and Riley were just coming by for lunch. As far as they were concerned, nothing else happened. Bastien told Eleanor that the outside security footage showed nothing. No one coming or going.

Cadaver dogs were brought in, and Liam began to sweat. If Constantine was somewhere in the palace, they would surely find him. No one was allowed to leave the kitchen while the dogs searched the grounds. Maxwell took Liam’s hand and squeezed tightly. Waiting was agony.

Half an hour later, Liam heard a police officer's walkie talkie crackle. “..found something..”

Liam's blood ran cold. He turned to his friends wide eyed and it was all he could do not to hyperventilate. Max squeezed his hand again to reassure him.

The officer stepped out of the kitchen, but they could still hear every word. “Say again?”

“We think we found something.”

“Where?”

“The abandoned palace dungeons. The dogs are going crazy in one of the cells. We’re working on getting it cleared now.”

Liam turned to his mother who was white as a ghost. “No..” She whispered before sobbing into Leo’s chest again. Madeleine was actually crying, but Liam was never sure if she was sincere or not.

“Can we get out of here?!” Leo spoke to the police officer once he returned to the kitchen. “You seriously stood there letting us hear that our father is probably dead in a cell and we’re supposed to just sit here with our thumbs up our ass?”

The officer stammered. “I, uh, apologize Your Highness. But I can't let anyone leave the room.”

“Fucking ridiculous.” Leo rolled his eyes and stalked over to the other side of the room.

Another officer stepped in. “Can we speak with Prince Liam again?”

Liam was sure his heart stopped. He wasn’t sure how, but his legs were moving and he was walking out with the officer. He didn’t dare look at Max or his friends.

The officer took Liam to a small sitting room.

“I know this is a trying day for you, Your Highness.”

Hold it together. Liam forced a sad smile.

The officer looked down at a piece of paper. “There are just a couple more things we need to ask you.”

“Ok..”

The officer held up the handcuffs and Liam’s mind began racing. “Are these yours?”

Liam nodded.

“Can I ask why you have handcuffs in your bedroom?”

Liam forced a small laugh, “Sir. I am in a relationship with someone who very much enjoys restraining me.. And vice versa. These are completely for recreational purposes.”

“Oh.. Ohh!” The officer blushed and cleared his throat. “Ok then. I apologize but we need to cover our bases. You understand.”

Liam nodded.

“And for the record, who are you in a relationship with?”

“Is this something that you honestly need to know? I would like that person to have some privacy.”

“I apologize Your Highness, but it’s just a formality.”

Liam sighed. He didn’t want Max to get grilled by them even more because of their relationship. “Maxwell Beaumont.”

“Come again?”

“I am in a relationship with Lord Maxwell Beaumont.”

The officer stared at Liam for a while like he thought he may be joking, and Liam started to stand. “Was that all you needed, officer?”

“One more thing.” The officer glanced down at his clipboard. “We have a statement from one of your housekeepers who said you and your father had a  heated argument in your bedroom yesterday morning. Can you tell me what that was about?”

“Do I need to have my lawyer present or something?” Liam spoke hesitantly.

“No sir! I assure you it’s just a formality. I just need to wrap this up and I promise we’re done.”

Liam’s mind was racing. Do I tell him the truth? Will that make me even more of a suspect because it seems like motive? The housekeeper probably heard everything word for word and told the police anyway.

Liam cleared his throat. “I’ll be honest with you, sir. My father walked in on myself and Maxwell engaged in.. intimate activities. He was upset that I wasn’t ready for the meeting with the Italian governing body. We were supposed to be discussing trade agreements, and I completely forgot. That’s what the argument was about.” Half true.

The officer nodded, blushing again. “I.. thank you for your honesty. I will be sure to check all of that out. You may go now, Your Highness. I apologize for the inconvenience during this difficult time.”

“Thank you.” Liam gave the officer a small smile and walked back to the kitchen.

Maxwell rushed over to him, hugging him tightly and whispering in his ear. “Are you ok?”

“It’s all good, Max.” He whispered back.

They sat back down at the table, no one daring to speak and accidentally reveal any damning information. Half an hour later, two officers entered, looking sadly at Liam’s mother. “Your Majesty. I am very sorry to tell you this, but we discovered your husband’s body in the dungeons.”

Eleanor gasped and ran into the oversized pantry, throwing the door closed behind her. Liam sighed sadly. “I’ll go check on her.”

While everyone else was preoccupied talking to the officers and getting more information, Liam knocked on the pantry. “Mother? Can I come in?”

“Yes.”

Liam entered and closed the door behind him. She was seated in the far corner, her knees to her chest. Liam had never seen her look so broken. He sat next to her and wrapped an arm around her shoulders and she leaned against him.

“Liam?” His mother spoke softly as she momentarily ceased her sobbing. “What do you think happened to him?”

“Maybe.. Someone broke in?” Liam’s heart broke lying to her. He honestly debated whether or not to just come clean and save her the worry of not knowing who did it.

She leaned over and whispered into his ear and Liam froze, sure that he didn’t hear her correctly. He furrowed his brow. “What?”

She spoke a little louder this time, her voice trembling. “I’m so sorry Liam, but.. I think I might have done it. I think I killed him.” She put her head in her hands. “I.. have something I need to tell you about myself. Something I have been hiding for years.”

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

[queenmiarys]

@harleybeaumont @yolandawalker@bebepac.@angelasscribbles @queenrileyrose @ao719 @shewillreadyou @yaniradolton @honey358luv @iglovequotes @instagram @luvquit @mom2000aggie @lilyoffandoms @sincerelyella

@kingliam2019 @kingliamandmia @hangulteam @tessa-liam @choiceskatie@choicesficwriterscreations

@superharriet@queenmiaandkingliam

Book: Royal romance

Pairing: Liam x Mia

Most characters belong to Pixelberry

Amelia Ramos, Jennifer Lawson , Daniel Lawson and Amy Rodriguez belong to me and so do this story.

Warning: Gun violence, Oral sex

Summary: This take place 2 year’s after meeting Riley, Liam meets 24 year old Amelia Ramos and starts a new relationship.

Chapter Summary: Liam and Mia grow closer, Disaster strikes.

Word count : 2,166

Song inspiration:https://youtu.be/PASAYTTLZDQ

ENVY

Chapter 2: Never thought

Drake arrived at Riley’s apartment, nervous that she’ll turn him away, he stood listening he heard a male voice and his heart sunk in his chest, he

thought maybe she has moved on or maybe she never wanted me, a few minutes later the door opened, a man who kind of reminds you of Leo walked out, Drake quickly ran to the stairs and watched as the man and Riley got on the elevator, her hair was longer and she looked more polished, she looked like a business woman she now had changed her hair color to blonde with dark brown highlights, she had put on about 10lb or so but he liked it she was beautiful still small, but the extra weight hit her just right, he waited for five minutes getting his thoughts together, then left.

Once back at the hotel he confided in Maxwell about seeing Riley but didn’t have the courage to actually show himself

Maxwell patted him on the back “ we only have two more days, so if you want blossom back you better let go your fears Liam already gave his blessing, only one stopping you is you.

“I know, But this guy came out of her apartment what if they’re together or worse married, then I’ve lost her for good.

Liam walked in the room smiling, “good morning gentleman, I have meetings all day

“And you are happy about that hmm

“I’m cool no big deal.

Liam Had two in person meetings , the other agreed to zoom meetings, he wanted to spend as much time as Mia as he could, they had spent the week getting to know each other, she had moved her work to home for the week, he arrived at Mia place he stopped and picked up a dozen of a white roses.

---------------

He pulled up in front of her building and pulled out the key she had given him, it was November and very cold out, it was just 2 weeks from Thanksgiving, Mia had invited him to go to California with her to her father for Thanksgiving, she warned Jennifer would be there too.

Once his meetings were over he walked to the near by grocery store to pickup a few items, he wanted to surprise her with a dish his mom had taught him as a boy.

Mia walked in, “What smell so good in here, what did you make, and those roses are beautiful.

“I made Mediterranean lamb ragu, my mother taught me, she learned how to prepare a few dishes for my father, they sit and ate, and talked.

Neither of them wanted to bring up the Elephant in the room , that they only had one more day together.

They finished dinner and played a few games and watched a movie, Liam felt as if he was really dating it wasn’t social season, even tho his father asked him to do another social season to find a bride, after finding out Riley was into Drake, he refused to even think of marrying Madeline.

He now wanted to find his own wife not some arrangement, Riley opened his eyes to actually finding real love with someone.

Mia turned on some music asking him to dance, they slow danced for a while and went to bed .

“Bastein you are to keep me updated on my son, why haven’t I heard from you all this week?

“Sir I just been keeping an eye on them, he’s been with her every night, her name is Amelia Ramos, she lives in the penthouse and sir the penthouse lights went out about 30 minutes ago, he must have a key, he was there hours alone.

“God dammit my son can’t be falling for another American, we need a strong queen who knows what we she’s getting into and he think that it could just be any stray woman off the street.

Bastein listened in disbelief. Eleanor was strong beautiful queen and had a heart of gold, he thought. “Sir if I may speak?

“ Sure Bas go ahead

Liam is much like his mother, but like you when he wants something he doesn’t stop till he gets it.

“My son Dating is a joke, I want Ms. Ramos visited after he leaves warn her to stay away from him, offer money all Americans like money.

Yes sir on it, this kind of stuff Bastein hated, but Constantine was his king.

--------

It was the next morning, Liam woke up at 6 am, with a dozen of calls from Drake and a few from his father, he walked in the kitchen and started a pot of coffee and scrambled eggs whites and fruits on the side.

At 7:20 Mia was up, she walked into the kitchen and kissed Liam it took everything in both of them not to give in ,they both agreed to wait to have sex, they wanted to know each other first

My love what’s wrong?

“Nothing

“Remember I been trained to read people, something is wrong.

“Okay you are right, we known each other now 2 weeks, I wish I could jump on your plane and go with you, I will miss you .

“ In a few weeks I want you to come out to visit me, I will be free and have more time for us.

“I was going wait but I don’t know if I can’t stay away from you that long, he takes her hand with a sad look in his eyes.

My love these has been the happiest 2 weeks of my life, I feel like I’m home if that makes sense, things with you feel right.

He hugged and kissed her, then fixed her a plate honestly this is what he wanted just a normal life with someone he loved and hopefully children one day now this made him want to stay in New York, but he knew he also had a duty to his country, but he felt his father was pushing Madeleine on him, in his father mind she would be a good choice, his father knew how he felt about Riley, he had told him pick Madeleine but keep Riley as his mistress, the nerve of that man he thought, he was brought out of thought by Mia voice.

“My love what did you say?

“I said did you want to shower together, I need to meet up with Jen and Amy, I’ll only be an hour then I am all yours.

“Love too, I got to go meet my friends too

They showered and got dressed.

While no sex, they did oral and hand jobs, they couldn’t go without exploring each other, they both was tempted, but both thought they was protecting their hearts, but not having sex didn’t stop them from falling, the time they spent and the things they did together, they both had past relationships where their person wanted someone else.

He made it back to his hotel, he opened the door, he liked to jumped out of his skin, Drake was sitting in his room in a chair, “what the hell Drake, how did you get in here?

“ I have my ways Li, so you mind telling me what the hell going on with you, I mean some nights you haven’t checked in, guess what Con on my ass because he put me in charge of you, so wherever you go he wants me to go, you know I don’t want to do this but it’s my duty.

“I am fine Drake just went on a morning run he lied.

“Hmmm that run was all night, I been waiting since last night, so I believe you need to try another lie, look Li your personal life is your business, if you’re not ready to tell us yet. but I am your security detail so I am to know to make sure you are safe.

He stood with his mouth slightly open,. “sorry man, they sit talking for a while, he had fill him in about Mia and apologized.

Drake told him about seeing Riley.

He no longer had any emotional ties towards Riley, all he wished is that she was healthy and wanting for nothing, “that’s a good thing you should talk with her, how do you know who the man was ? if you don’t actually say anything? What if he’s just a friend or family member

“I’ll think about it.

They heard a lite knock on the door, “Hey you guys hungry?

I can use something

“I already ate, I have a meeting at 10.

“Okay please check in with me.

“Okay I will, let me get going

He had 2 meetings then met up with Mia, it was almost 1pm, She was quiet, not wanting to look at him, he noticed.

He felt sad and guilty, he wanted her with him, they spent the rest of the day together; it seemed like night came too fast .

Tonight he wanted to taste her to be inside her, but he settled on wanting to taste her, she laid back on the bed opening her legs to give him full access to her, he give her 3 orgasms two with his tongue and one with his finger, they both wanted more.

She got on her knees in front of him,, he stopped her saying she didn’t need to, “but I want too, you’ll be leaving early morning I want more but l miss you even more, but let me return the pleasure you just give me.

He wanted to stay, but his flight left at 6 am.

It was 10:15pm he headed back to his hotel.

----------

The next morning he woke up at 4 am showered and got ready to leave, they boarded the plane.

Liam was in a really bad mood, he hated leaving he just wanted to sleep not to talk about it and not to be bothered.

Mia woke at 7, remembering Liam was gone, she just wanted to not be bothered but promised her friends they would hang out, she told Jennifer and Amy he was leaving today.

They did their best to take her mind off Liam but nothing was working.

Liam had woken up 2 hours later, he looked around, he had a dream about Mia, Drake was looking at him strange .

“You okay Li?

“Yeah I’m fine, we still got a few hours

“So you want tell us about Amelia?

“There is really nothing to tell.

Ha Max let a laugh giving Drake a knowing look

“And what do that mean Mr. Beaumont

“Well you are holding back, you spent most of your time with her, so that tells me that you really like her, so when can we meet her? Max was happy that Liam could finally date again he wanted his friends to be happy, he kept in touch with Riley but after sometime she had completely cut him off, him and Bertrand both had missed her a lot, it was like they had lost another family member.

Drake got some water.

“Who are you Max and Liam said in union

“You both know I am on duty, and I need to be ready for anything.

---‐-----

It had been a few days, they had talked over video chat and phone and text.

Liam had a fundraiser to attend, that evening .They blow quick kisses.

Jennifer and Amy showed up with take out and some wine coolers.

“We can’t leave you alone at a time like this, I don’t know you haven’t known him that long but the sex must be hot? She doesn’t make eye contact with Jen, oh my God you never had sex with him?

“Jen please we are getting to know each other, everything isn’t about sex.

So you have fallen in love with a man, you haven’t had sex with?

“Can we change the subject you are making her uncomfortable.

“Okay mother Amy, they played a few games of cards calling over Daniel, who was 2 years younger then Jen and Mia, Amy was a year old than Mia.

It was now 6 pm and midnight there, not really watching the news, but there it was Prince William Rys of Cordonia was shot.

Mia wasn’t the only one watching the news, “ You get me there or I go to the press about everything, if you think I am joking try me.

#Liam Rys x mc #trr #Drake x riley #Maxwell #Cordonia #royalty #fiction #Choices #Fanfics

[findingdrake]

The Common Romance

I finally landed in Melbourne, Australia. I have worked my ass off to get this dream job as a Software Engineer in this dream city. Getting the job wasn’t as difficult as getting the Visa. Even though my employer has sponsored me, the last formality for the visa is still pending. After landing in Oz, I have to attend an interview and get my visa stamped by the immigration officer. Pheww... "Keep calm, it’s the last step, and there are hardly any rejections at this step... Deep breaths...", keeping my composure, I head to my sister’s place, where I’ll stay for the initial days.

The next morning, I hurriedly collect my documents, and then take a cab to the Immigration office. As I walk across the Immigration Office my clumsy and anxious ass drops a document or my mobile or wallet every few steps.

Drake Walker, Immigration officer, I read the nameplate outside his office. I wait outside in the waiting lobby, impatiently making E-O-E-O faces. It’s been 2 hours, and my name has not been called. Everyone seems to have a prior appointment except me. Waiting... And waiting...

It’s lunchtime now. I know this because I see the immigration officer move out of his office, and yes, also there is a display board that says ‘Office will be closed for a lunch break between 12:30-1:30’. But mostly the immigration officer. I didn’t get a good look but he’s ruggedly handsome. Tall, I guess 6 feet and a good build. I follow him as if I was charmed. “Pss.. stop following the immigration officer you idiot!”, says my rational self. They win this time, but I am already in the canteen following him. I head to the vending machine while he is, well, I lost him. I look around as I get my snack pack. Obviously, he’s eating a salad. “Handsome men don’t eat like pigs and you”, says my critical self.

“How about we sit next to him? He’s eating alone”, says my swooned self.

“Have it occurred to you that maybe he wants to, not like he can’t get a company”, says Miss rational.

“I’ll sit next to him and bring up my visa appointment”, says my smart self. “And we can ogle at his handsomeness”, says Miss Swooned. So after a detailed discussion with myself, I decided to head to him with my snack pack and a water bottle. I hope he’s not done by now.

I am at his table and he’s busy looking at his phone. My tongue seems numb, but somehow I mutter, “I sit here!”. I wanted to make it a question, but it came out as an exclamation in broken English. He looks up. Those gorgeous eyes filled with depth and annoyance? He looks around, and he can see a few empty tables. “Covid protocol, can’t share tables”. “That’s not a covid protocol!”, my ego frowns as I take a seat at the next table.

“Ok! We have lost hope of a romantic relationship because of this pathetic and desperate start. Now, he’s the immigration officer, and you are the applicant. Try it that way”, came Miss Smart for rescue.

“I have an appointment for my 186 application with you. I need to get it stamped before I can join the office, so how long does it generally take”, I am suddenly more confident when I talk professionally, in a totally unprofessional and inappropriate setting.

At first, the handsome officer tries to ignore me and pretend that the question was not directed at him. But taking a quick look at my leaning posture, question mark face and constant stare, he sighs. “It can take 1-46 days.”

“His voice is so raspy and the accent…. Shut up slut!”, fight Miss swooned and Miss rationality.

“46 days?”, I was seriously concerned until I saw him give a sly smile.

“Emm... I can keep coming here for 46 days, no problem. Not like I have a job”, I smile confidently at him. I’m sure he can sense the cockiness in my voice.

“Should I wait the second half of today, Mr Walker?”, I dare to ask him, while this is going in my head, “Mr Walker, that sounds so sexy!”

He finished up, and I think early, because of my irritating presence. “I’m afraid we are all booked today and won’t be able to take any on-spot cases. You got your appointment right? You can come when you get a call”

“I’ll definitely cum when I get your call”, I blurt out.

“I won’t be calling you, my office will”, he said with a straight face.

“Why don’t you just jump into his arms, that will be more desperate and embarrassing”, he leaves with his salad plate while I’m being slut shamed by myself.

…………………………………………………………………………

“Come in!”, Drake tries to stifle a giggle and keep a straight face as he calls in the next applicant. A few routine questions before he stamps the Chinese family’s Visa.

“Come in!” he calls in the next applicant. “Fuck that idiot tiny woman! She ruined come in for me.”, Drake frowns, thinking to himself and the Pakistani applicant gets nervous. “Is anything wrong Sir?”, asked Ahmed. “No, Mr Khan, your papers seem just right. Welcome to Australia”. Drake goes about stamping his Visa.

“Next!”, Drake sighs tiredly as he calls the next applicant. 4 more hours of this before he glides towards his car.

…………………………………………………………………………

He likes taking the scenic route home. It’s long but has no traffic, it does remind him of a far land he once called home. This is a bittersweet path because Home is the beautiful memories, but home is also the pain and the betrayals. Some days, he can’t brace the memories, and either take a sharp u-turn to a different route or speed past this one. Today, was not such a day. Today he tried to distract himself. His hand reaches toward the car radio, but who is he kidding. Australian music doesn’t excite him like the Cordonian classics. It has been almost 2 years in Aussieland, but he still hasn't completely adapted. “Huh.. hmm. Hmm.. hmm..”, he tries to hum, but he knows he can’t do it. He’s clicking his fingers on the steering wheel. “Today was fine, that Syrian family totally deserves to move here. That’s what the humanitarian Visa is for. I’ll speak to Kyle to escalate the process tomorrow.”, he tries to think about something interesting in his day. “What else... the British journalist and that tiny lady can wait a few more days. The tiny lady, she was utterly annoying.”, he involuntarily chuckles at her naiveness. Then he freezes for a second. He clearly remembers how Naive Riley was. That’s exactly how she used to look at him, at Liam. He sharply crams the accelerator and speeds home, to his kids.

#the royal romance #drake walker #trr #drake trr #drake x mc #choices fanfiction #choices drake #choices trr #trr fanfic #the royal romance fanfiction #the royal romance fic #the royal romance au #the royal romance fanfic #drake walker fanfiction #trr drake walker #drake walker fanfic #team drake #drake #drake x oc #drake x riley #liam x mc x drake #liam x riley #oc rp #melbourne #australia

[msjr0119]

Hiiii

One simple question. R you still alive? 😆

I miss your storiees thar i followed on my old account.

Pleassseeeee come back soon 🙏

Erm, hi….. 👋🏼

I’m still alive just about ☺️🤣 ….

Sorry for the long hiatus, life has been hectic and kind of taken over! Moving house, work, three children, holidays, planning a wedding…… I have no energy left 🙈

Whilst I’ve been away I have been writing ‘one shots’ based on my current life and attempting to do some writing that people have asked specifically for in the past 😬

These include pairings of; Drake x Riley, Liam x Riley, Drake x Madeleine and Riley x ?

I am determined to post these ASAP! I promise ❤️ I just need to get my MOJO back 💪🏼

Thank you for the ask! And let me know what your old account was 😁 I’m very intrigued with your blog name 🤣

#trr #trr fanfic #trr fanfic long hiatus #drake x Riley #Liam x Riley #drake x Madeleine #msjr0119 #choices trr #theroyalromance #riley brooks #drakewalker #liam rys

[dcbbw]

Sneak Peek Sunday

Hoppy Easter to all the Tumblrs that celebrate! 

I am behind on a ton of deadlines posting-wise. I’m just dealing with a LOT: medical issues, legal issues, family drama, and hot-ass messiness at work. I’m also pondering my future on tumblr, but for now I do have at least 4 more fics that I intend to write, and post here: an MC lunch ask, #KLAW submission, @bebepac​’s birthday fic, and possibly a Drake-centric fic inspired by a song (or two) currently on repeat in my Spotify.

All of that is to say I DO have something to share: snippets from two fics that WILL be posted this week: my submission for Maxwell Beaumont’s birthday appreciation and my Luck of the Draw fic.

Snippets are below the cut, and a little longer than six sentences as I only have two entries this time around. As always everything is in a state of rough draft; final versions may vary.

Birthday Boy

Once again, it’s my birthday. A milestone one: The big 3-5.

I remember when I thought 35 was old.

I’m celebrating at the Great House that belongs to the duchy King Liam bestowed upon my wife. I’m celebrating with family, friends, and members of Cordonian Court. How I’m greeted lets me know which category a person falls into.

The East Ballroom has been transformed from cold marble and stiff curtains into a discotheque, complete with sequined balls suspended from the ceiling, a DJ, and a dance floor with color-lit tiles. At the moment, the children of Court are playing hopscotch on it while the adults partake of the buffet tables and open bars.

As I make my way through the throng, I grin, shake hands, and thank people for coming. I see my children in my peripheral vision and feel my heart swell to near bursting; my daughter is the spit and image of her namesake, Annabelle. My mother. Her tobacco-colored ringlets bounce as she skips over squares colored green, blue, red, purple. Her sapphire-blue eyes squint in concentration, and her plump lips part as she emits laughs and squeals.  

Her brother Dimitri, two years younger, follows behind her as he clumsily mimics her movements while yelling it’s his turn. He has dark hair and brown eyes like his mother, but he gets his personality from me.

I press forward, my wife now in my sights. Her dark hair is in an upsweep knot, and her cream-colored gown flows over her body. I pause to take her in and marvel at how far she’s advanced since Social Season. She’s no longer coarse and rough-edged; now she’s polished and cultured.

Sometimes.

She’s talking to the King and Queen, and I can tell from her posture the conversation is either agitating or exciting her. Her hands are gesticulating wildly; I already know words are tumbling from her lips as if they were balls being lobbed from a machine.

The King’s eyes roll in amusement while my wife talks; I assume it’s excitement that has my partner so animated. Liam tugs his Queen closer to him just as Crown Princess Eleanor tugs at her mother’s dress and pulls the monarchs’ attention.

As I draw closer to the trio, I wonder for the zillionth time how she’s with me.

After all, she came to Cordonia for Liam.

She stays in Cordonia because of Liam.

Three Blind Mice (LotD, Chapter 6 of The Commoner’s Wife)

“I appreciate your obvious…. attraction to me, Your Highness, but my heart and affections have been claimed by another.”

“You mean your best friend’s wife? Listen to me, Your Majesty….no royal or noble worth their salt will accept a divorced commoner as Queen. Your court will be the laughingstock of Europe and you…. you’ll be the biggest scandal since King Edward VIII. At least he was lucky enough to choose love over Crown, but you don’t have that luxury, do you? Your brother beat you to it.”

“What I do with my personal life, especially when it takes place in Cordonia, is no one’s business but mine. And if you wish our countries to remain in good standing, you will stop talking,” Liam growled.

“Even when it involves fucking other men’s wives?” Marguerite arched an eyebrow.

She lowered it when Liam’s eyes narrowed dangerously. The Princess still needed to make an advantageous match; Liam was the best of the lot. When she spoke again, her tone was more conciliatory.

“Darling, I’m offering you not only a union, but an alliance … a chance to rule over two countries, not just one. We don’t need to be in love and arrangements can be put in place, but only one of us can be scandalous, and I’ve already claimed dibs on that.”

The Princess smiled brightly before downing the remainder of her beverage. She looked around the room before setting the champagne flute on the table in front of her and gathering her purse.

“I’m sure the three of you have much to discuss; I’ll see myself out,” she spoke to everyone and no one.

She began rummaging inside her bag, murmuring to Liam that he could email her a non-disclosure agreement. “As juicy as this morning has been, I wouldn’t tell anyone; however, I understand the need for assurance.”

Marguerite rose, a plastic keycard between her fingers which she offered to Drake.

“Retaliation fucks can be most satisfying. I have a standing room at the Savoy Five Kingdoms. They have an excellent bar and even better room service. Drop by anytime today; I fly out in the morning.”

Riley’s face was dark with anger; her eyes held a flicker of fear.

Liam’s head fell into his open palms.

Drake stared blankly at the key before raising his eyes to the monarch of Monaco.

“Fuck you,” he spat.

Marguerite looked puzzled as she tucked the key into his jacket’s breast pocket.

“That’s the entire purpose, darling.”

Tagging: @jared2612​ @ao719​ @marietrinmimi​ @queenjilian​ @indiacater​ @kingliam2019​ @bebepac​ @liamxs-world​ @mom2000aggie​ @liamrhysstalker2020​ @neotericthemis​ @twinkleallnight​ @umccall71​ @superharriet​ @busywoman​ @gabesmommie1130​ @tessa-liam​ @beezm​ @gardeningourmet​ @lovingchoices14​ @mainstreetreader​ @angelasscribbles​ @lady-calypso​ @emkay512​ @princessleac1​ @charlotteg234​ @queenrileyrose​ @alj4890​ @yourfavaquarius111​ @motorcitymademadame​ @queenmiarys​ @choicesficwriterscreations​

#dcbbw writes #wips #maxwell beaumont #the commoner's wife #liam x riley #drake x riley

[angelasscribbles]

The Proposal

Series: None, this is a one-shot and you can find those here.

Fandom: The Royal Romance

Pairing: Drake x Riley

Rating: G

Warnings for this chapter: None

Word Count: 1,471

A/N: This is finally! @twinkleallnight ask from my prompt wheel event. The ask was for Drake x fluff and angst x secrets and romance. I decided that any fluffy, romantic gesture from Drake Walker is going to be angsty because he's unsure of himself. What other romantic gesture would you keep secret than a proposal? So here it is finally. Hope you enjoy!

Also submitting to @choicesjunechallenge for Proposal.

My other stuff: Master List.

“What’s going on in here?” Riley asked.

The conversation had ceased the moment she walked in. That was the second time in as many days and Drake had been acting squirely for a week. Fidgety, secretive, and quieter than normal. Not that he was ever a huge talker, but this was quiet even for him. He seemed lost in thought often and when she asked what was on his mind, he just dismissed her with “nothing.”

She sighed and shook her head when Drake once again responded to her question with, “Nothing.” The same answer he’d given her earlier when he’d hung up on a call that he’d clearly been in the middle of when she’d walked in the room.

She was starting to worry that there was someone else or that he’d realized he’d made a huge mistake wanting to be with her.

Not that she would blame him. She had come here for his best friend after all. But the spark with Liam had fizzled and died quickly. There was no way the royal council ever would have approved her as a match for him anyway and she had figured out not long after landing in Cordonia that there was no way she would be happy living under the restraints that Liam lived under.

She thought that Drake had moved past the fact that her initial interest had been in Liam, but maybe he hadn’t. She had never meant to fall for someone else after realizing she and Liam weren’t meant to be, but she had fallen for Drake in slow motion, and had been unable to stop it from happening.

Maybe he had just gotten swept up in the excitement of the engagement tour and the adrenaline rush of all the sneaking around, trying to be discreet as they cleared her name and now that it was all over, regular life with her was boring. Maybe he liked damsels in distress and now that she wasn’t one, he was losing interest.

She turned her attention to the other man in the room and demanded, “Max?” Surely Max would tell her what was going on.

Max gave her a wide-eyed stare, like a deer caught in the headlights before blurting out, “Nothing!” and bounding out of the room.

Well, fuck.

She turned back to Drake with a tremble in her voice, “You’d tell me if something was wrong, right?”

“What? Of course! Riley, baby, nothing is wrong!” Drake was shaken to his core that she thought that. He took her in his arms and pulled her tight against him as he told her, “Nothing is wrong! I love you! Please tell me you know that!”

“Uh-huh,” she nodded as she pulled away and gave him a sad smile, “I’ll leave you alone and let you get back to…whatever you were doing…”

He watched her leave with his heart in his throat.

Shit!

This was not supposed to happen. He was apparently a terrible secret keeper and a worse boyfriend. His girlfriend, the love of his life, thought something was wrong between them because he was making such a mess out of this.

He pulled out his phone and started typing into the group chat he had created a week ago.

Drake: Change of plans! We need to pull this off tonight! She’s suspicious and thinks something is wrong.

Max: Sorry, I have no poker face!

Hana: We can do this! Can’t we, Liam?

Liam: Of course! Anything for our two best friends my love!

Drake: Seven?

Hana: Seven it is. Max, come to my office so we can coordinate.

Max: On my way!

Drake pocked his phone and went to find Riley.

*****

After reassuring his girlfriend that everything was okay between them, Drake met his friends on the palace roof. “Oh my God, you guys, this looks amazing! How did you get it done so fast?”

There was a table draped with a white linen tablecloth, adorned with red and white roses and tapered candles. Twinkle lights stretched overhead and soft classical music floated through the air from hidden speakers.

“Being queen has it’s perks!” Hana giggled.

“She’s being modest,” Liam draped an arm around her shoulders, “My wife is amazing at everything!”

“Besides, you did all the planning,” Max interjected, “all we did was make it happen a few days earlier than originally scheduled!”

“Okay, okay,” Drake muttered as he walked around the area checking things, “Flowers… music… champagne….candles… what am I forgetting?”

“Uh…do you have the ring?” Max asked.

“Shit! The ring! Right!” Drake patted his pockets, then blew out a huge sigh of relief when he found it, “Got it!”

“Okay, now all we have to do is get Riley up here!” Hana nodded.

“I’ve got that part under control,” Drake answered, “Thank you all for everything!”

“Are you okay?” Liam peered at his best friend, “You look a little pale.”

“I’ve never been so nervous in my fucking life! What if she says no? What if she doesn’t want to get married? What if-“

“Hey, hey, hey!” Liam placed a hand on his shoulder, “She will!”

“Yeah, anyone can see how in love you two are,” Max assured him.

“As her best friend, I’m telling you, she’s going to say yes!” Hana added.

“Okay,” Drake took in several gulping breaths, “Let’s do this!”

*****

“We’re having dinner on the roof?” Riley asked as Drake led her through the door at the top of the stairs and out onto the moonlit rooftop of the palace.

“Yeah, I thought it would be fun.”

“Wow!” She breathed as she took in the scene in front of her, “You did all this?”

“I had a little help,” he admitted.

“Why?” She asked as her eyes took in the table that was set with fine China, crystal champagne flutes and actual silverware. “Not that I don’t appreciate a good, romantic gesture, but this is out of character for you…oh! Is this what you’ve been so secretive about lately?” She watched his face hopefully.

“What? I mean…yes, yes! This is what I’ve been planning! I wanted to recreate the night we met!”

Relief crashed through her as she sat in the chair that he pulled out for her. “I’m pretty sure there was no China or champagne that night…”

“Yes, but this was the best I could do in the palace kitchens! There are no plastic plates in the place. But look!” He pulled the cover off her plate to reveal a deluxe cheeseburger and fries.

“Oh my God! This looks amazing!” she laughed, “This is great! I was starting to worry about you for a minute there, Walker!” Burgers and fries were much more his speed, and hers, than any of the fancy dishes that usually came out of the palace kitchens.

“So, you like it?”

“Of course! But why all the secrecy? You scared the crap out of me! I thought you were going to break up with me!”

“Yeah, sorry about that,” he ducked his head sheepishly, “I guess I’m not good at keeping secrets.”

“Ya think?”

His smile vanished as his countenance grew serious, “Riley, I never want you to be afraid of that. I want to be with you now, tomorrow and forever.”

Something in his tone made her body go still. Her eyes widened as she took in his serious demeanor, “What are you trying to say right now, Drake?”

“I’m saying…” he was suddenly down on one knee holding a ring up to her, “I love you, Riley Brooks and I want to spend the rest of my life proving that to you! Will you make me the happiest man on the planet and marry me?”

Her hands flew to her mouth as she sucked in a shocked gasp, “Drake!” tears started falling down her cheeks as she nodded.

“Yes? That’s a yes?”

“It’s a yes!” she nodded harder.

“Oh, thank God!” He slid the ring on her finger as his hands started to shake from the adrenaline that had dumped into his body.

He stood up and pulled her from the chair, crushing her against him as his lips crashed into hers.

When they pulled apart, she was laughing, “I can’t believe you thought I would say anything other than yes!”

“I have never been so scared in my life, Riley!”

She looked at him incredulously, “Did you really think I’d say no?”

“Maybe….”

“Not a chance! You’re stuck with me, now!” She teased as she admired the ring on her finger.

“Good!” He kissed her again then leaned his forehead against hers, “I love you, Riley.”

“I love you too, Drake,” she murmured as her hands ran through his hair.

The food was forgotten for the moment as they clung to each other with love and happiness flooding through their hearts.

#drake x mc #drake walker #angelasscribbles #the royal romance #the royal romance fanfic #trr #choices fic writers creations #choices #choices stories you play #cfwc fics of the week #drake walker x mc #drake x riley #one shot #fluff #proposal #choicesjunechallenge #choices monthly challenge

[yjhariani]

I wanted to make a full version of this, but I can't decide who I should write it for.

He always preferred wired earbuds. Regardless of his wealth, his friends' influence, or just the development of technology in general. He always preferred wired earbuds. For various reasons.

He preferred it even more when he wanted to share some songs with you. If he could, he would put one of his earbuds on your ear. If you had some or if it was of access, he would tuck your hair behind your ear beforehand.

Sometimes, even when you were sitting next to each other with one earbud on, he would slightly lean to the other side so you had to lean closer to him to prevent your earbud from slipping.

If you told him that you really disliked the type of earbuds that he had for whatever reason—especially comfort reasons—he would change earbuds right away. If he disliked the type of earbuds that you liked, he would even take the time to modify his earbuds to have one of them replaced so the both of you could use it together comfortably. Even better, that now you had two pairs of modified earbuds, you could swipe which side you wanted to listen on. He figured it would be a good investment.

Sharing it while watching a movie on a laptop was one of his favourite times to spend with you. If you fell asleep, it would always be on his shoulder. If you cried, he would instantly console you. If you paused the film and removed your earbud because you had to go to the toilet, he would wait for you patiently whilst holding your side of the earbud until you returned.

He did not only share his wired earbuds with you when it was convenient. One time, on public transportation, you got yourself a seat, but not him. Instead of letting you stand with him, he insisted that you stay seated while he hunched himself down a little so that you did not have to strain your neck whilst wearing one of his earbuds with him.

One time, he tried sharing bluetooth earbuds with you in public. It took only a few minutes until the two of you were accidentally separated and he disliked it a lot. He never used his bluetooth earbuds since.

He would never, however, get an earbuds splitter. That meant the two of you could use two different wired earbuds and that meant putting a distance between the two of you. That meant when someone wanted to talk, they had to pause the music so the other could hear.

So, if someone asked why he preferred wired earbuds, his honest answer—though he might not say it out loud—would be that it got you closer together and it felt more intimate that way.

#simon ghost riley x reader #simon riley x reader #ghost x reader #jason todd x reader #red hood x reader #tim drake x reader #red robin x reader #kyle gaz garrick x reader #kyle garrick x reader #gaz x reader #damian wayne x reader #damian al ghul x reader #robin x reader

[flowerpowelltales]

Like Fall, Like Spring (Drake x MC)

PART TWENTY

A/N: maxwell has entred the chat. again.

It was over before Riley even realized it started. The meetings, one with Hana, another with a lawyer and then another one with a few more peope went smoothly and very fast. After mere two hours, everything was settled and Riley breathed a sigh of relief. 

She knew Drake wasn’t home yet; he messaged her saying that Liam needed him for a few more hours. She sent a cryptic message back: she was busy as well and he didn’t have to worry about going back home late. Drake replied with a question: “Busy?” but Riley didn’t want to tell him yet. “Busy:)” was all she said back. 

She smiled at her phone and texted Maxwell. He kept asking her when they could meet up to catch up (and Maxwell needed to know everything about how her and Drake made up) and Riley decided it was time. Seven minutes after her message, Maxwell was already waiting for her in the bakery and eating his first, out of five, cronut. 

“I’m so happy you messaged me, Little Blossom! We haven’t talked in ages.”

“In fours days,” Riley corrected.

“That’s ages in my world. Come, sit. I ordered you a vanilla late.”

She obliged and took a sip of her drink. Maxwell knew how much she loved all those sugary syrups in her coffee and he always made sure to get her a coffee with one. That was one of their things; Drake claimed adding anything to coffee is a crime so she drank plain latte or a cappuccino whenever she was with him. Giving up milk was still too much to her. 

“Sooooo! You and Drake, huh. The therapy. Camping. Huh?” He wiggled his eyebrows and Riley laughed.

“Yes, the therapy helped and we made up. Happy?”

“Very!” He raised his oatmilk hazelnut caramel decaf macchiato with extra cinnamon and whipped cream in a toast. When it came to coffee drinks, Maxwell was even more extra than her. “Tell me everything!”

Riley took another sip of her coffee and began to tell the story, from the therapy, the camping trip to Leona’s phone call and their making up. She did leave out the actual making up in bed but she did tell him they kissed and that it felt like they were okay. Maxwell obviously read between the lines because his face was very smug. 

“And what did you tell Leona? I hope you told her to kiss your ass. Or to back off! Or--”

“I just hung up.” She shrugged.

“What? Nooo! Riley, no! You can’t! You need to do something! Look, someone suggested you take a photo of you and Drake kissing and send it to her. Other people thought it’d be better if you sue her for emotional damage. And then this one person--”

“Maxwell, who’s suggesting these things and why do they know about our problem with Leona?”

“Umm... Would you like another coffee?”

“Maxwell!”

“Cronut, maybe?”

“MAXWELL!”

“Okay, so I made a poll online.”

“A poll? What?”

“Yeah, my fans were supposed to pitch their ideas to me, how they would deal with aunt Leona.”

“Maxwell! You didn’t! The whole Cordonia knows about my beef with Leona?” She hid her face in her hands.

“Noo! Of course not! It’s um... an anonymous website. No one knows it’s about you.”

“What do you mean anonymous?” Riley looked up at him.

“So... I’m writing fanfiction about you and Drake. Although it’s not really a fanfiction but rather a friendfiction, since I’m your friend, not a fan. Don’t worry I changed the names!” He said quickly seeing the horror on Riley’s face. “So Bailey is a poor woman from the U.S. and one day she met Blake, a handsome, grumpy whiskey addict and they fell in love with each other. But there were many obstacles, obviously. There was an awful old King who tried really hard to send Bailey back to America but luckily with a help of their amazing friend, lord Maximiliano, the handsome and courageous man who fought the old king himself, they were able to get together and get married. But then another obstacle came, namely Blake’s awful old witchy aunt Leana who loved the old King and wanted revenge. So she bullied Bailey into leaving and she left and then Blake was searching for her for months, with his best friend Maximiliano, who eventually found Bailey and reunited two lovers. And now my readers are waiting for the epilogue and suggesting different ideas what to do with Leana.”

Riley’s eyes widened and she was too stunned to speak for a few minutes. Maxwell took her shock for amazement and calmly sipped his extra fancy drink. 

“I... I don’t know to say,” she finally croaked. “You’re writing fanfiction about us?”

“Friendfiction, and yes. I have over three thousand followers on Tumblr. Each chapters gets over four hundred notes! Can you imagine?”

“Does Drake know about this?” She asked.

“Do you think I would be so good-looking and alive if he knew?” Maxwell answered with a question and Riley nodded. 

“That makes sense,” she murmured. 

“So... About Leona, how about I--”

“No, Maxwell. I-- We will handle it ourselves.”

Maxwell shrugged. “Okay. But if you need ideas, you know where to find me.”

~~~~

After the weirdest afternoon with Maxwell, Riley was too tired to have any conversations with Drake. He asked her how she spent her day and she vaguely told him she met up with Hana and Maxwell to catch up. She left out the purpose of meeting with Hana and the fact that Maxwell wrote fan-- pardon, friendfiction. Drake told her about a few new ideas that Liam had for developing Cordonia and that Liam asked him to be the official photographer for all upcoming events. 

They ate dinner together, watched a movie and went to sleep (together) as if that was their routine for years and they never had any breaks. 

~~~~

The morning came too soon in a form of a phone call. Riley, rubbing her eyes in hopes to wake up faster, reached out for her phone to see who was calling her. 

“If it’s Maxwell tell him I’ll kill him,” Drake murmured, still refusing to open his eyes and take his arms away from Riley’s waist. When she didn’t reply and they phone was ringing, he finally opened one eye and then another as concern began to paint his face.

“What’s wrong?” He asked.

“It’s Leona,” she whispered, all pale and quiet. Drake sat straight abruptly. He was awake now.

“Put her on loudspeaker,” he demanded.

“Maybe we can just ignore her forever and--”

“Put. Her. On. Loudspeaker.” He repeated and Riley nodded. 

“Hello?” She said.

“Riley! This is honestly rude to hang up and stop answering my calls.” Leona’s voice filled the bedroom. “Of course you’d end the call like a coward you are! You don’t want to hear about the things you’re ruining cuz’ it’s nice living in that happy bubble you built!”

Riley felt Drake stiffen next to her and her hands started getting sweaty. 

“Leona, listen...” she began but the woman didn’t let her finish. 

“No, you listen. I told you everything a few months ago. You made a good decision to leave and my poor baby was finally getting better. And I thought, wow, maybe I was wrong about Riley, maybe she really cares about Drake since she let him go. Maybe she really wanted the best for him. But then you come back. You don’t want to give him a divorce. You force him to live with you. Once again, you’re not letting him live the life he wants! You’re taking away his happiness! You’re so selfish, you can’t even look past your needs! It’s all about you! You don’t care about Drake, never did. He has a real chance to build something good with Mary-Anne, have a child with her, his child, may I add, live in Texas, just as he always wanted. Live the life he wants. Not you. How many times do I have to beg you to let my baby be happy?”

Riley paled even more and she wanted to throw up. What if Drake agreed with Leona? 

“Leona, I--” She started but this time it was Drake who didn’t let her finish. He took the phone from her hands spoke to his aunt himself.

“Bullshit, Leona. You know nothing except for how to bully my wife.”

“Drakey? Of course!” Leona snorted. “Riley had to snitch, didn’t she? She--”

“I honestly don’t care what you’ll say about her. I have enough of your crap, aunt Leona. Nothing you described is my dream life. Because there’s no Riley in it. Maybe it’s time to accept it and stop calling her like a maniac because this will not change how I feel about her!”

Leona was silent for a few moments and Riley almost thought she gave up. 

“So it happened, huh?” Leona’s voice sounds as if she was crying. “She finally turned you against me, huh? Against me, the person who helped changing you diapers. The person who was always there for you. Who was a mother and a father when your parents couldn’t. A person who has only your best interests at heart. She really is worth it, huh.”

“Leona...” Drake started and sighed. He looked equally mad and heartbroken. “You’re the only person who’s trying to meddle. This is my life, not yours. Please, accept that I make my own choices and I want Riley to be in my life. She’s my wife and I love her. I am happy when I’m with her. And I would appreciate if you stopped calling her.”

“Drakey, you don’t see it the way I see it! I’m older than you, I’ve seen things! You say that now but in a couple of months, maybe weeks, you’ll start feeling unhappy again! Look, she’s back in Cordonia but her life is in America. She’s no longer a Duchess but does she have any job? Did she do anything to stay here? To prove she’s about to stay? Even her dog is still in Vermont. Her job is in New York. That doesn’t look like someone who wants to stay with you, Drakey. It looks like a person who’s planning her life without you. And breaking our family in the meantime.”

Drake looked at Riley and she looked down. Leona had an awful talent to speak things that were true but in a such a way that it sounds worse that it was in reality.

“Leona...” Drake’s voice was breaking and Riley almost started crying herself. “I no longer believe you. I... You did it yourself, you know. You broke our family. I love Riley. Whether you accept it or not, I’m not going to change my mind. I don’t want to see you calling Riley ever again and I’d like to ask you to stop calling me as well. I... I don’t want to talk to you for a bit. And you can tell Mom, I’m not going to visit her in Texas this summer. I don’t want to be around you when you’re so full of hatred towards someone I love so much. And if you don’t comply... I’ll have to take it to the courtroom. You can’t harass us all you want without any consequences. Liam will help me make you unwelcome in Cordonia. So please, think about it and accept that I’m living my own life, separate from you.”

“Drakey...” Leona was crying. “She’s breaking the family. She’s turning you against me when I’m trying to protect you from a heartbreak, baby. Drakey, I love you, don’t do this.”

“Please, don’t call us again,” Drake said and hung up. Then he blocked Leona’s number on Riley’s phone and his. 

“Are you... okay?” Riley asked when he handed her phone. 

“No.”

“Do you want to talk about it?” 

“No.”

“Do you want--”

“I’m going for a walk. I’ll be back in a few hours,” Drake said getting out bed and putting on his jacket. He didn’t even change from his pajamas. Riley followed him with her eyes and gulped. Did Drake realize he was making a mistake by being with Riley?

Drake opened the door and hesitated. He turned back, kissed Riley’s forehead and only then walked out.

~~~~

Drake was gone for most of the day. It was evening, the sky was already dark and Drake was still gone. He did reply to all Riley’s messages though, saying he needed more time and that he was okay but Riley still worried. It was getting colder and Drake was only in his PJs and a jacket. He didn’t eat the whole day. 

Riley was making her teenth cup of chamomile tea when she heard Drake coming back. 

“Drake!” She cried out and launched herself into him. He was very cold but his arms were still the coziest place known to Riley. He returned the hug and Riley felt melting into him.

“Are you better? You know what, just go change into warmer clothes and I’ll reheat the soup for you, okay? And I’ll make tea. Do you want me to add whiskey to it?” She asked.

“Riley--”

“Shh, we’ll talk when you’re not cold and hungry, okay? Don’t worry about anything!” She said it more to herself than to him. Truth be told, she was very nervous and didn’t know what to think. She only hoped Drake wouldn’t change his mind.

TAGGING: @gardeningourmet​​ @delightfullypinkglitter​​ @alesana45​​ @walkerdrakewalker​​ @karahalloway​​ @kingliam2019​​ @lovingchoices14​​ @tessa-liam​​ @gkittylove99​​ @texaskitten30 @twinkleallnight​​ @rubiwalker​​ @differenttyphoonwerewolf​​ @nestledonthaveone​​ @marshmallowsandfire​​ @21-wishes​​ @thequeenofcronuts​​ @iaminlovewithtrr​​ @angelasscribbles​​ @ladyangel70 @tinkie1973 @belencha77​​ @lunaseasblog​​ @alyshak92​​ @xpandass420x​​​ @queen-arabella-of-cordonia​

#choices #playchoices #the royal romance #drake walker #the royal heir #the royal finale #drake walker x mc #drake x mc #drake x riley #drake walker x riley brooks #my fics #trr

[stararch4ngelqueen]

TW: Imagine the heart attack Ghost, Price an Konig will have once you introduce them to vapo rub

- -

The change in seasons definitely affected something in everyone. You always made one thing incredibly clear to him;

Season allergies are a bitch.

He had picked up movement from the corner of his eye at one point, unaware you had trodded out of your warm bed when he snuck off to make something hot to combat October’s chill.

By the time he turned around, you tugged off a folded comforter from the couch’s armrest and settled in on the cushions. A makeshift cocoon, a blanket consisting of oversized yarn tied into decorative knots you had bought from an overpriced store, hiding the body of his lovely person underneath.

With such a unique ability to move quietly, you’d make an incredible assassin in his book.

You didn’t respond when he asked if you wanted tea diluted with copious amounts of sweet honey, or cider. You didn’t move when he carried two steaming mugs, settling them down on the coffee table.

“Hun,” He nudged your shoulder. “Open those eyes. C’mon, you’ve got to tell me how awful I made your drink. Can’t start my day without it.”

Nothing. Not a peep.

The couch slouches with his weight as he sits, strong hands maneuvering to settle along your hip.

“Babe.” He gently shakes your arm with more effort, watching those pretty lashes flutter once you decided to open them.

“Hm?” You finally reply, like a little church mouse.

“C’mere.” His hands gently cradle along your thighs, a rumbled grunt emitting from his chest as he hauls you to sit up. Your sniffles become uneven sonnets, your body trembling like a leaf barely clinging to its dead branch on a dying autumn tree.

“Poor little thing,” he hums, a calloused hand cradling your very warm, very flushed cheek. “Why didn’t you stay in bed? Was barely gone five minutes.”

You pitifully shrug, hanging your head like a guilty child. He clicks his tongue, shaking his head in both amusement and mock disappointment.

With as little to no effort, he slips an arm under your buckled knees and torso, raising you up from the couch, in your expensive chenille blanket.

“Alright, c’mon. Back to bed. I’ll get ya some more Benadryl to help you sleep.”

Not to knock on wood, but if he gets sick after you, he knows your ciders will be heavenly. Especially with a splash of something strong to clear those airways.

#simon ghost riley #jason todd #ghost x reader #jason todd x reader #simon riley #simon riley x reader #jason todd x you #simon ghost x reader #dick Grayson x reader #konig x reader #soap x reader #Gaz x reader #keegan x reader #bruce wayne x reader #price x reader #tim drake x reader #damian wayne x reader #reader saw the hat man from all that Benadryl #get yourself some vapo rub #will fix you right up #l

[harleybeaumont]

Unintentional

Chapter 11 - Caught

Book: The Royal Romance AU

Pairings - Liam x Maxwell, Drake x Riley

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

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

Chapter Warnings - homophobia (homophobic slurs)

Word count- 2,000

18+ only

Click here to catch up.

Chapter 20 - Caught

“What the fuck is going on here?!”

A very naked Maxwell was straddling a very naked Liam, who still had one wrist handcuffed to his bed frame. Max quickly rolled off of Liam, pulling the sheet over the both of them as the man continued to gape at them.

“What?! W-why?!” Constantine shook his head, completely dumbfounded at the scene he was witnessing. 

Poor Liam still had one wrist handcuffed to the bed, and Max handed him the key. Both of them were mortified. 

“How long has this shit been going on?!” Constantine shouted, surely alerting everyone in the palace to what was happening.

“Father, will you please get out and let us get dressed so I can explain?!”

“No! You can explain now! My god, what am I witnessing in my own home?! Were the two of you.. Oh my god!” Constantine’s face was red with anger as he gestured between them.

Liam tried to stay calm. “Look, I know this is a shock, and it is definitely not how I wanted to tell you about us, but-”

“Us?! You mean the two of you are seriously.. together? I assumed this was just some one-time fucking mistake!” Constantine was shaking with rage. “No! This is not happening. My son is not a.. a.. ugh!”

“Dad, please stop. I need you to leave so we can get dressed and talk about this calmly.”

Constantine pointed to Maxwell accusingly. “This is all your fault. I knew letting some little faggot live in my house was a bad idea!”

“I..” Max tried to come up with some way to defend himself, but the raw anguish in his heart left him speechless.  

“Shut the fuck up!” Liam yelled at his father for probably the first time in his life. “Just shut up and get out!”

Constantine shook his head angrily and stormed out, slamming the door behind him. Liam felt like he had been punched in the gut. He looked over to Max who was still slack jawed staring at the door his father had just left through.

“Max..” Liam spoke softly, placing a tentative hand on his knee.

Maxwell turned his gaze to Liam, as tears threatened to fall. “I’m so sorry Li.. fuck, I’m so sorry. This is all my fault!”

“Stop!” Liam held him tightly. His father did not get to make Maxwell feel bad. “Don’t say that ever again, please.”

“But what if he was right.. Did I.. make you do something you didn't want to do?”

“Fuck no!” Liam was practically shaking with anger. “Don’t listen to a fucking word he said.” He cupped Maxwell’s cheeks. “Hey, hey.. Look at me. I love you.. Ok?”

Max nodded sadly and Liam swiped the stray tears from his cheeks. “I love you too.” Max said so quietly it was almost a whisper.

Liam pulled Max against his chest and held him tightly. “I love you. I love you. I love you. And don’t let anyone tell you otherwise.”

Max could barely breathe and he squeezed Liam hard. “Ok.”

“Now, I’m going to get dressed and go downstairs and have a talk with that fucking-” Liam bit his tongue to stop himself. “I’m going to go talk to him. It’ll all be ok, I promise.”

Max nodded again and pulled his clothes on while Liam did the same. Liam placed a soft kiss on Maxwell's forehead and walked him across the hall to his bedroom. “Just stay in here until I finish speaking with him. I’ll have breakfast sent up for you.. ok love?”

“Ok.” Max said softly. It broke Liam’s heart to see Maxwell hurt that way. How could his father say that?! How could he hurt Maxwell like that?! It made him sick. 

Liam gave him a quick kiss, and mentally prepared himself for the inevitable argument he was about to have. Liam was broken hearted that Maxwell was sad, but also because he finally saw what kind of man his father really was. He was so ashamed of his dad for the things he said. He was a King, he wasn’t supposed to make people feel bad about themselves. Constantine always pretended that he cared about everyone regardless of their race, gender, or sexuality (those were the exact words he used in almost every speech), but at least one of those was a lie. 

Liam took a deep breath and reached up to knock on his father’s office door when he heard raised voices inside. He put his ear to the door and froze in shock. His mother and father were having a heated argument.. about him.

“You can't be serious right now, Constantine!” Eleanor shouted.

“Do I look like I’m joking?! I can’t believe you’re so calm about this! He’s your son too after all!”

“Exactly! He’s my son, and I want him to be happy! Maxwell makes him happy! If you opened your eyes, you would actually see that.”

“What I saw, Ellie, was that little fag boy naked on top of my son, handcuffing him to the bed!” Constantine yelled. 

“Constantine!” Eleanor's voice was trembling. “First of all, I am deeply ashamed of you for using that word! And second, Liam is a grown man! What he gets up to in his own time, is none of your business.”

“I am the fucking King and his father! Everything is my business! And the business of the nation! Do you want everyone to know your son is a -”

“Don’t!” Eleanor screamed, cutting him off. “Maxwell is a wonderful man, and they love each other.”

“Oh my GOD! Just stop, Ellie! They are not in love! Liam is just.. confused. We need to send that boy away, and then Liam can get his head on straight and find a proper woman to marry.”

“Oh the hell you are! Maxwell is not leaving. I won’t allow it. Neither will Liam or Leo.” 

Liam was trembling as he continued to listen at the door. He wanted so badly to throw open the door and punch his father’s lights out. There’s no way in hell he was sending Max away.

“Oh, so everyone is ok with this?! Leo knows too?” Constantine was speaking calmer now, but his tone was threatening. “I thought I had at least one son who was a real man.”

“I can’t talk to you right now.” Eleanor’s voice was shaking. 

Liam heard someone approaching the door and he ducked around the corner, out of sight. His mother breezed past, tears streaming down her cheeks. All Liam wanted to do was hug her and thank her for standing up for him. Through his father’s open office door he heard him pick up the phone and dial someone. Liam knew he should get out of there, but morbid curiosity kept him glued in place.

“Bastien.” Constantine spoke curtly into the phone. “I need you to do something for me. I want Maxwell Beaumont out of this house by morning.. Liam too, if he protests. Get my lawyer over here by 9 am sharp tomorrow. If Liam goes with Beaumont, I’m officially disowning him. And tell him to bring those divorce papers that I had drawn up years ago...Yes, I am serious. Dead serious.”

Everything around Liam blurred and his ears were ringing. He knew he needed to breathe before he passed out. Liam staggered down the hallway into a bathroom and pulled out his phone. He slumped on the floor and tried to take deep calming breaths as he pulled up the number.

“Drake..” Liam’s voice was quivering as he struggled to breathe. “Can me and Max stay with you guys for a while?”

That night, Liam and Maxwell packed up some clothes and personal belongings. The next morning they were going to move in with Riley and Drake temporarily. Liam hadn’t even seen his mother since the argument she and Constantine had. He tried to call and text her but she didn’t answer. Liam was overwhelmed with grief and anger towards his father, and he assumed his mother was too. 

He cuddled Maxwell on the bed, both of them emotionally and physically exhausted. “Hey.” Liam kissed his temple softly. “Wanna watch a movie?”

“Sure.” Max said sadly. Liam had spent hours that afternoon trying to calm Max down once he told him what he had overheard his mother and father saying. Although he left some of the more hurtful details out. 

Liam had an idea of how to cheer Max up. “What Adam Sandler movie do you wanna watch?”

Maxwell laughed loudly, the sound warming Liam’s heart instantly. “Any! You pick.”

“They’re all the same to me.”

Maxwell gasped, his hand over his heart. “How dare you?”

Laim laughed, “Ok, ok.. Look, you pick the movie and whatever it is, I’ll give it the utmost attention and respect.”

“Deal.” Max chuckled and turned on Billy Madison for the thousandth time.

Liam started to protest but Max gave him a playful warning look, so he shut up. Liam snuggled into Maxwell’s side, stroking his hand down his toned chest, letting his fingers glide across Max’s hippo tattoo. The two were exhausted, and soon they both drifted off to sleep.

3:15 a.m. Liam awoke with a start. The first thing he realized was that his arms were free and he was on the floor. Shit, shit, shit! Liam stood up, trembling and saw Maxwell was asleep on the bed. Liam looked him over carefully, making sure he was ok. Thank God. Liam padded into the bathroom in his suite and checked himself over in the mirror. He looked ok. Maybe he just fell out of bed. He tried to steady his breathing and reassure himself. He was ok. Max was ok. He just fell out of bed. Liam washed his face and nudged Maxwell gently as he climbed in bed next to him. 

“Max.. Can you cuff me?” Liam whispered.

“Gladly, Your Highness.”  Maxwell chuckled sleepily. He looked over at the clock and sat up with a start. “Oh crap, I fell asleep! I forgot to handcuff you! I’m so sorry-”

Liam held up a hand, “Hey, it’s ok. Everything’s fine. Let’s go back to sleep.”

Max restrained Liam to the bedpost, gave him a soft kiss, and the two drifted off to sleep together. The next morning Liam awoke to a knock at his door. Max uncuffed him and hid in the bathroom as Liam hesitantly made his way over to answer it. He was sure it was his father’s guards coming to kick him out.

“Your Highness?” Bastien stood before him, looking worried.

“I know. Don’t worry, we’re going to leave.” Liam said sadly as he avoided eye contact. “Let me just get our stuff.”

“No Liam, I was just coming to ask you if you’ve seen your father this morning.”

“No?” Liam furrowed his brow in confusion. Why would he have seen his father? As far as both of them were concerned they would never see each other again.

“It’s just that.. No one has seen him since last night. He missed two meetings this morning and his lawyer is here for.. personal reasons.” Bastien cleared his throat awkwardly. He clearly didn’t know that Liam overheard his father’s plans. “But no one can find him. Not even your mother or Leo has seen him.”

“Sorry. No idea.”  Liam honestly couldn't care less where his father was.

“Ok, well if you hear from him, will you let me know immediately? We are all beside ourselves with worry, as you can imagine.”

“Sure.” Liam said flatly as he closed the door.

Max walked out of the bathroom with a look of horror on his face, and suddenly realization dawned on Liam. 

He woke up on the floor in the middle of the night.. 

After hearing his father say terrible things.. 

And now his father was missing.

“Oh shit.” Liam swallowed hard, his wide eyes never leaving Maxwell’s. “I killed him.”

#unintentional #trr fanfic #the royal romance #choices fanfic #liam rys #maxwell beaumont #liam x maxwell #drake walker #drake x riley #tw homophobia

[trrvisuals]

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Lavender and Crimson

PRIDE:

A Lavender and Crimson One-Shot

Star Crossed

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Still Believe (one-shot)

#trr visuals #angelasscribbles #trr au #trr fandom #drake walker #drake x mc #drake x riley #the royal romance