#challenge seven

[thyremainder]

c7 - with one heartbeat

hello hi :) i'm finally working on clearing out my backlog of unposted rps.

up first is the delightful photoshoot with raffy (@raphael-schreave) and meredith (feat. bianca and margot), which as always was fun and i enjoyed the challenges that came with it🥲 thank you anya!

with one heartbeat | wc: 5.1k

[arin-schreave]

Challenge Seven: The Game

Oh boy here we go. Welcome to Challenge Seven. I ain’t got nothin else to say.

For this challenge the remaining Selected have been divided into three groups based on the colors that were sent to us. For the Pink Team and Blue Team there will be required group RPs. Yellow Team (aka quaranteam) you will be on your own for what you come up with.

With the Queen due to arrive home soon Arin will be too busy to have any alone time with the Selected but he will be at meals. You are able to RP amongst the other Selected. Once group RPs have been completed there will be opportunities for side RPs.

Your group RPs will be set a week and a half into the challenge (September 24th).

The lead up is as follows:

The fire alarms go off in the palace and as you do everyone needs to make their way from wherever they are. 

If you would like to RP how you end up in the room with another Selected that’s fine but please keep in mind that the group RPs are mandatory and must be completed by August 8th. (This challenge covers from September 13th-October 4th.)

(Please click on your team names to be directed to the Hangouts group created for your team.)

Pink Team:

You are gathered up from where you are in the palace and brought to the Great Hall.

Blue Team:

You are either in the Women’s Room already or you are found somewhere else and brought. 

Yellow Team:

You will be told by guards to go to your room wherever you are in the palace.

As part of this (as stated at the beginning) there will be no RPs done with Arin or any other characters part of the host team prior to side RPs.

Fics are not required but are highly encouraged for this challenge.

Seating arrangements are as follows:

This challenge ends August 15th.

[totallymaxis]

Challenge Seven: Cosplay

Erin and Chloe as Aziraphale and Crowley from Good Omens by @whattheskell

(outfits to be release soon on my simblr)

[opheliagardinier]

hard to swallow

Here’s the second part of this challenge. It’s a bit choppy but well I’m running out of time.

Thank you @benjaminschreave Bri for the rp. It was fun and different, and hurt a lot to write at some points.

word count: 3017

I knew it was Ben before I even opened the door. I’d wanted to see him for the past few days but I wasn’t sure I was ready yet.

Ben looked rough with his hair messier than normal. His hands were deep in his pockets and his glasses did nothing to hide the dark circles beneath his eyes.

“Hi,” I mumbled, meeting his eyes for a moment then glancing away.

I opened the door wider and took a step back. Without saying anything else I walked to my bed to sit down, while he hesitated for a moment. Ben closed the door then shuffled over to my bed, keeping his distance. Ben didn’t meet my gaze at first as I expectantly looked up at him but then his eyes finally met mine.

For a moment I tried to search them to see what was going through his mind. If I knew him it was a million different things but he’d come to apologise.

“I’m sorry.” He said after nervously swallowing. “For the things I said. I... was stressed and took it out unfairly on Wyatt and you all. You didn’t deserve that.”

Understatement.

He had snapped so badly he’d dragged not only his brother into it but everyone else in the room.

“This is exactly what I told you would happen, Ben.” I frowned, letting out a huff of air, while he winced. “I knew that if you didn’t start letting people help you it was going to all come out at once- but at least you got to be honest about how you felt.”

The last bit sounded a bit harsh to my ears, but if he didn’t want me here- fine. He should have sent me home months ago. Maybe he should have sent each of us home and saved everyone the trouble.

“I know you were right.” He nodded, running a hand through his hair as a look of frustration crossed his face. “But- I wasn’t completely honest. Not about Wyatt or ending the Selection. I just... I was stupid and wanted him to leave me alone.”

I angrily shook my head. In the heat of the moment, people tended to be more truthful. Or at least I was… And just then I was afraid of what I might say- still without taking time to think I blurted out the first thing that came to mind.

“If you don’t want us here then just send us home.” One of my hands balled into a fist as I grabbed at my bed sheets. “Don’t lead us all on so you get to have fun messing around and manipulating us.”

My mom’s words echoed in my head. I didn’t want her to be right- but truth be told I was still sorting out what she’d said. And Ben’s outburst hadn’t helped a single bit. Somehow things had become more blurred and fuzzy.

“No no.” Ben gave me a pleading look, stepping closer. “I’m not doing that. I want you all here, I-“

Don’t. I didn’t want him near my right then. My judgement was clouded enough as it was. The closer he got the worse it would become. I needed to be as level-headed as I could- which was hard enough already.

“You mean more to me than you know. I want you to stay.” He added after letting out a breath.

“Stay as what exactly? Someone who just sits there and smiles and whose only job is to plan parties and have babies?” I shrugged then shook my head again. “Because it sure feels like that.”

I lied. It didn’t feel like that at all. But some part of me wondered if my mom could have been right. She only wanted what was best for me- and it was pretty apparent I wouldn’t be able to thrive in that environment. I would never feel fulfilled by being seen and not heard.

“God no Lia.” Ben reached out a hand for a split second then let it fall back to his side. “Haven’t you seen what my mother does? She helps people, service projects, counsels with my dad. Makes a difference. If-if I chose you, you’d have all those same opportunities.”

“Then why are you so set on changing me?” I exclaimed angrily, before softening my tone. “Because that’s what it feels like you’re always trying to do. And I’m not myself anymore.”

If anything I felt more myself with him, but at the same time, it was like I’d lost part of myself. I was less and more all at once.

“What?” He seemed shocked by my question. “I’ve never wanted to change you.”

“Are you sure about that?” I asked. “Because we both know I’m pretty far from what a princess should be.”

He pressed his lips together in anger. Part of me was relieved to see him undone that way. I’d always felt like I was the only one who ever had a temper- and seeing that side of him reminded me that he wasn’t perfect, which was something I’d desperately needed.

“I’ve never given you any indication that I like you any other way than exactly who you are,” Ben argued. “I don’t care if you’re not a typical princess, I care about you and our relationship. And from what I’ve understood you never cared much about what other people think.”

That was only partially true. I cared a great deal, just not in the way he thought.

“I care about what you think!” I half yelled- trying not to be too loud. The last thing I needed was for my maids to be in the room with that mess. “And maybe I should start caring what other people think because clearly, you have a few thoughts about each of us here.”

He’d been so harsh on Danielle- who I didn’t know well but definitely didn’t think he’d deserved what he’d said. And then there was Gabby, who he’d accused Wyatt of stealing- which had pissed me off. She had her own feelings and wasn’t a thing to be taken. If she and Wyatt had a better connection then so be it.

Then it hit me- he liked Gabby. Or more than that. I wondered if he’d be just as upset if I’d been the one who’d gotten on so well with Wyatt. Maybe that’s why I was so mad because I wasn’t sure.

But as I’d been in the Women’s Room listening to him yell at his brother I’d begun to wonder if maybe he had some unaired criticism he might want to lay on me. It was only fair I felt. We said no lies and I wanted the truth- even if it hurt.

“Of course I do! And you want to know what I think?” Ben took a step closer and cupped my face with both hands. “I like you. A lot. Even more, if you’d stop and listen to me for a second. I want you here. Whoever you may and whatever you have to offer. Got it?”

“And I'd like you more if you didn't-“ I grunted, angrily. “I don't know what to say.”

I looked up at him in frustration. I’d like you more if you didn’t distrust me. I’d misjudged him early on and held things back- and it had hurt us. But he’d done the same thing and it was coming full circle.

“What do you want me to say, that your independence is admirable but wildly frustrating and a little illogical sometimes?” His frustration matched mine as he let his hands drop. “Or that I know you care about me and somehow you still find an excuse to put wedges in our relationship? Well too bad, Lia. I’m here. And I want you to be too.”

But he put wedges there too. I’d given him so many chances to just let me in- even a little bit and every single time he’d shut down. It didn’t matter if I wasn’t going to be anything more than what we were at the moment because above everything else I was his friend.

And I knew I should have given him space but instead I’d been stupid and pushed him. In trying to help I’d probably done the opposite and I felt bad. I’d failed him.

“I don't know, Ben.” I sighed and flopped back onto my bed. “You frustrate me too.”

Ben joined me on the bed, with one hand on either side of my body as he hovered over me.

“It’s called a relationship. No one’s forcing you to endure me and my frustrating qualities if you don’t want to.”

For fucks sake. He knew I wanted to be with him. But that wouldn’t matter if he decided he didn’t want to be with me. I didn’t want to get hurt- but I didn’t want to hurt him either..

“I know what a relationship is- even if it’s a bad one.” I looked up at him. “And I never said I didn’t want this with you.”

“Are you implying this is a bad relationship?”

Far from it. I’d been in one for three years before him… It hadn’t been until just recently that I began to belatedly recognise the signs… With Ben there were none.

“No- never.” I shook my head. With a sigh, I reached up to stroke his cheek with the back of my hand. “It’s good, we’re just having a bad moment.”

I wanted to tell him that we were allowed to have those. It didn’t always have to be picture perfect. That wasn’t realistic.

“Lia.” His gaze softened. “Are you going to believe what I said? Or insist on your crazy ideas that you’re just another potential housewife and I don’t care about you?”

I let out a groan. I needed to come clean.

“Fine… I believe you- even if I lied.” I chuckled a bit. “Besides I’m pretty sure if that were the case I’d end up being the housewife that poisoned her husband with some nice dinner I’d make.”

I could play Cell Block Tango while I cooked it.

“I’m sorry, you lied?” He blinked down at me. “About what?”

“I know you wouldn’t want me to just sit around and all that- I was mad and was just repeating something someone had told me… It wasn’t even about you.”

I’d told him he wasn’t his father and none of the girls at the palace were his mother. But at the same time what I needed to hear was that I wasn’t my mother and he wasn’t my father.

It was almost funny the way we came from opposites. His mother and father had a beautiful love story while mine had some doomed torrid affair.

He stared at me another moment before rolling off of me and falling onto the bed beside me.  Ben groaned, rubbing his eyes beneath his glasses.

“You’re going to give me a stroke. We shouldn’t be lying to each other.”

I rolled onto my side, using one arm to prop up my head. I watched him for a moment. I’d never seen him looking so rough. For once in my life, I wasn’t sure I wanted to be right- not with how badly things had turned out. I wished I had been more than wrong when I told him needed to let people in or it’d hurt those around him.

“I know, I’m sorry.” I gave him a soft smile. “Well, that was a fun little experiment I’d be happy to never repeat.”

Ben let out a sigh. As he stared up at the ceiling he dropped his hands onto his torso. It was such a simple motion, but I loved it.

I love him…. I love you.

I wasn’t going to say anything- not now. We needed to get through this and that would only complicate things. I knew Ben and he didn’t say things if he wasn’t sure.

I was glad his focus was on the ceiling. I wasn’t entirely sure what expression I wore on my face and didn’t want him to ask.

“I wouldn’t exactly call that fun.”

“I was being sarcastic Jam Jam…” I raised my eyebrows. “Do you at least feel better?”

“I guess with you, but... not really.” He mumbled.

“Do you want to talk about it?” I asked.

This is your chance. You already know what I think you should do.

He was quiet for a bit, worrying me that I’d been wrong. I wasn’t sure who needed him to speak more… me or him…

“I hurt Wyatt. More than anyone probably has before. He won’t even look at me.”

Ben’s expression crumbled, with his eyes closing. You’re wrong.

“He’ll forgive you, it might just take a little time,” I assured him. I reached out to put a hand on his shoulder. “Wyatt was worried about you and you both were frustrated- he knows that.”

I thought about when I’d run into Wyatt in the barn- with Kathryn. He’d been upset and not because I was feeding his horse grapes.

“It’s more than just being frustrated. I basically admitted some of his deepest insecurities in front of people he doesn’t trust.” Ben continued. “He- he thinks I’ll be okay without him. That no one really needs him around. I... I don’t know how to come back from that.”

“Wyatt knows you need him and he needs you.” I scowled a moment before pausing as I considered something. “You might not be talking but he’ll come back to you- he’s your best friend… shit…”

Kit was my Wyatt. I’d been too caught up in my own emotions and hadn’t considered what he thought or felt. And now he was off somewhere married to a girl I didn’t like and didn’t even have my emotional support- regardless of how I felt about his actions.

Ben seemed to think over what I’d said before realising I’d stopped in the middle of giving him advice.

“What? What’s wrong?” He asked, looking over at me.

“I’m a terrible friend.” I shot him a tired look then waved off his concern. “Don’t worry about it, I’ll take care of it.”

“You sure? I’m not exactly in my prime but I still have two ears to listen.” Ben told me. He looked equally as exhausted as I did as he raised his eyebrows.

All this was between me and Kit. I needed to fix the situation before I brought in more opinions or lost my courage.

“Yeah, I’m sure. I messed something up but maybe it can be fixed. I’ll tell you about it later.” I leaned in to give him a soft kiss.

Ben reached up with one hand to cup my face as he returned the kiss.

“It’s a bit different without cake.” I teased, pulling back for a moment before leaning in again.

I could hear him chuckle as his lips met mine again.

“Still good.” He mumbled against my lips.

Ben rolled over again so he hovered above me. I leaned back further into the bed as I reached up to take off his glasses off, lightly tossing them to the side. My arms went back to wrap around his neck so I could pull him closer.

I just wanted him to be as close to me as possible for as long as possible. I didn’t want to think about the way we’d fought or how I wasn’t the only girl in his life. I just wanted him with all the outside noise.

It was a heavy feeling that started in my chest and spread. I couldn’t figure out what it was at first. It had been so long since I’d felt that way I’d almost missed it.

Ben’s hands moved to my waist, while his kisses deepened. He moved closer while I lowered one hand to wrap around his shoulder. My other hand went back up to hold the side of his face.

His hands gripped my waist a little tighter before they wrapped around my torso. I hooked a leg around his waist and moved my hand from his cheek to run it through his hair. I wasn’t sure how long we stayed that way until he suddenly pulled back.

“I should um- go, probably.” He blinked down at me.

Please don’t. All I wanted to do was pull him back to me. I didn’t want to let him go even if I knew I should. It was too much.

“Of course, yeah, you’re probably busy.” I groaned.

Disappointment ran through me as Ben kissed my nose before letting go of me. He sat upright.

“You’re not the only person I have to talk to.” He reminded me, with his shoulders slumping as he sat on the edge of my bed.

The other girls. He almost looked tired at the thought.

I remembered telling him early on that who he kissed or kissed wasn’t any of my business… but now I wasn’t so sure I felt that way. No scratch that. I definitely cared. I just wasn’t allowed to tell him. The best I could do was comfort and support him.

“For good luck.” I sat up and wrapped my arms around him from behind, then held out my pinky.

Ben smiled a little as he took my pinky with his and gave it a squeeze.

“Thanks, Lia Bec.” He looked back over his shoulder and gave me a kiss on the cheek.

“Any time, Granny.” I nodded.

I let go of him and leaned back against my bed. He stood up and went to my door, then flashed me one last smile with a wave.

“See you at dinner.”

I laid on my bed after he left, considering everything, as I tried to recover. When I’d finally worked up the courage I went to the nightstand beside my bed. I picked up the phone and dialled the number I knew so well, holding my breath as the dial tone buzzed.

Then it stopped.

“Fee?” His voice was shaky.

“I’m sorry, it’s all my fault.”

[nathaniel-schreave]

Challenge Seven - The Caning

Ah! First, so sorry that this is going up so late, we were busy today. Second, four girls left! Third, it’s the challenge Grace and I have been waiting for so long to make.

In this challenge you will have to write about your point of view of the caning. The fics below shows different perspectives of what happened. Take into account all of the actions during the caning, as they will help with dialogue, action, and other things missing from one fic that might be in the other. The girls aren’t right next to the royals, but by the crowd. They aren't able to hear what the royals are saying to one another. The selected are unaware of everything before and after the caning.

Things to include in this fic

Your maids rushing to get you changed (black dresses)

Inner monologue

Dialogue from the royal fics

Feelings about the caning and everything overall

Side rps (optional) (excluding Malloy and Charlie)

Message us for any questions!

MALLORY/CHARLIE FIC NATE FIC

[arin-schreave]

Press Release

[opheliagardinier]

bird-day cake

Sorry, this is so long… We’re getting towards the end and I’m kind of like eff it here’s a 7.5k fic for one rp…? That and given the fact that I had such limited access to internet the past two weeks I had all the distraction-free time in the world- mostly. I also didn’t cut anything out, which is something I never do… So it’s a start to end fic. Side note there cake that’s in the fic and it’s a real cake and it’s a M a Z i N g and here’s the link to that. If you’re outside the US and you’d like the recipe let me know because I have a doc I can send you- it even has metric units J. In case you can’t tell, I loveeeeee this cake.

This takes place a few days before her family arrives for reference- so it’s a side fic.

Thank you Bri @benjaminschreave for the rp and both Bri and Ester @wyattschreave for being so accommodating!!!

word count: 7515

It had been a chaotic few weeks since Ben’s birthday. The news of Aran’s return home had surprised me- but not as much as the fact that he’d be coming back.

A few days before the Big Day I planned a surprise for Ben. Now normally this tended to involve scarring him in some way or another but I figured he’d had enough of that as of late. He deserved something nice.

Ben had told me he would get some cake at the end of the ball- but seeing as how events had unfolded I doubted that had happened. So with a favourite recipe and a little help I set out to rectify that. No one was going to go without chocolate birthday cake on my watch.

Eventually, they slapped a sling on my arm, I was released from the hospital and sent back to my room with very specific instructions to take things easy. I could easily sleep twelve hours sure- even without the meds they were still cramming down my throat but the constant rest was agony. And the only thing worse than the rest was when I had to take my little jaunts down the hall.

Over time got easier and easier until the hall was easy peasy and I was able to set my sights higher. At some point, the end of the hall gave way to out of the hospital wing, which gave way to the garden and so on and so forth. It was a lot of work but I was determined to get better. And some days if I was lucky Viv even joined me if she had the time.

“Hey there Jam-Jam.” I beamed as I entered the library.

I had so badly wanted to skip into the library but my injuries still limited me. But I’d been told if I was diligent enough about my recovery I’d be able to do more normal things by the time my family arrived.

Ben turned towards me from the bookshelf he was stationed in front of. He seemed happy to see me, smiling at me as he stopped what he was doing.

“Lia-Bec, how ya feeling?”

With a sigh, I raised my injured arm just enough that it didn’t hurt. The sling was an absolute bitch. And not even a cute bitch at that. I would have bedazzled it if I could have but it was a difficult task when you were down an arm. And my maids were stressed out enough as it was- Astrid especially.

“Like a funky broken chicken.” I inched closer.

I thought about the Chicken Dance Elmo I’d had as a kid. At some point, the batteries began to fade and Elmo’s dance slowed, with his song becoming increasingly distorted. That was exactly how I felt.

“A very cute broken chicken.” He let out a small chuckle, then leaned forward to kiss my forehead.

My nose scrunched at the word cute but the kiss brought a small smile to my face. Every time he did something like that it sent a small tingle down my spine. It was a feeling I couldn’t get enough of.

“So what do you say we get out of here?” I asked.

“You know these outings of yours have somehow terrified me each time. I want to stay in the comfort of the library I think.”

I jokingly rolled my eyes then told him to name one time as a smirk played across my lips. Ben knew I would never do anything awful to him. There was no way he could name a single instance.

He quickly listed off the picnic I’d taken him on and that the time I’d put a whole bunch of baby birds on the roof. With a smile, I narrowed my eyes but still conceded.

“But you owe me,” I told him, leaning in closer.

“If anything you owe me.” Ben scoffed, which cause me to laugh.

“Now that’s where you’re wrong,” I told him with a wink, before leaning up to kiss him on the cheek. ”You lied to me, Jammy.”

“When have I ever lied to you?”

“On your birthday.”

Massacre aside I knew that despite his promise he likely would have been too caught up trying to make sure everyone else was taken care of.

“I'm positive I didn't lie to you then.” He gave me a sceptical look.

“You told me you’d get a piece of birthday cake and I know you didn’t.” I nodded. “And a birthday without cake just won’t do.”

“That wasn't a lie. “ Ben argued. “I thought I would, but... well you know. Why does my birthday cake matter anyway?”

Sometimes it was like Ben felt he didn’t deserve normal things. He’d had a big birthday party and had been so busy he didn’t even get to have some of his own cake. That was both a huge problem and a tragedy.

“Your birthday cake matters to me a lot.” I shook my head then held out my right hand. “Come on.”

“Alright...” He let out a small confused laugh as he took my hand.

I started leading him towards the doors of the library. I didn’t want to rush him but I was a bit concerned that if we weren’t quick someone might happen upon the cake on the kitchen island.

“I might even tell you where we’re going if you ask nicely- you know… since I scare you so much.” I teased.

“Keyword is might. Who knows if I can trust you.” His eyebrows wiggled while a smile tugged at his lips.

“Now Jammy have I ever lied to you?” I asked, pretending to be offended by his implication.

“At this point, I'd say we've gotten to know each other pretty well.” Ben chuckled.

We continued on down the hall, taking one of the couple turns that led to the kitchens. Ben looked around as if he was trying to see where we were headed.

I felt the urge to rub my arm but realised I couldn’t because we were holding hands. Not that the sling helped matters. So instead I just frowned a little.

“Mostly…”

“I'll say the same that whatever you want to know you can ask.”

I paused for a moment to think, then nervously looked up at him. Phrasing wasn’t always my forte- especially when it came to delicate subjects.

“It's not so much a question as it is an observation... Sometimes I say things and you seem haunted but you never want to risk burdening anyone else.”

His lips pressed together as his ears went red. A pang of guilt hit me.

I shouldn’t have said anything.

“That's pretty spot on.” He muttered.

“Yes well… I didn’t know how else to put it. It’s kind of like you just shut down and I never know what to do.” I sighed, giving his hand a squeeze.

“Well, it's... it's already hard enough for me, why would I put that on someone else?” Ben winced.

I gave Ben a sympathetic looks as I told him he might feel better if he shared and that maybe other people wanted to help- it was what partners did. Then I closed my mouth.

The worst thing about giving advice is when you have revelations about things you’ve done and times you should have followed it yourself. There were so many warning signs that I was just now beginning to recognise. I had never thought I was dumb but Jesus I had sure been an idiot in the past.

“I don't know.” Ben sighed, running his free hand through the top of his hair. “It just feels like I'm making more problems for someone else.”

If they can’t accept you and your problems then maybe they aren’t worth it. What I would have given for someone to have told me that sooner.

“But who does that help?” I asked. It doesn’t help you at all or your relationships so in the end it becomes problematic for other people and might even hurt them.”

I took a nervous breath as I waited for his response.

“I... yeah. Fair point.” He looked away from me.

I nodded as I considered what I’d said, a bit confused that I was able to say something like that considering my past failure when it came to relationships. 

Relationship.

“I’m sorry.” I murmured.

“For what?” He asked, blinking as he looked back at me. “You were just being honest.”

My head shook as I told him I didn’t like upsetting him. But god I’m good at it. I looked up at Ben as he stopped walking for a moment and squeezed my hand.

“I'm not upset. Something I needed to hear is all, so I'll probably thank you in the long run.” He gave me a small smile.

“I guess.” I sighed. My eyes closed for a moment then I looked back up at him.  “When all this is over can we still be friends...?”

“You-what?” He reared back in surprise.

“Prepare for the worst in case the best doesn’t happen.” I gave him a weak smile, but he had a sad look on his face.

I hadn’t done that before so I was trying to make sure that no matter the outcome I’d be okay. And it would be a real shame to not have Jam in my life if this didn’t end with us together.

“Lia... I really don't know how this is going to end yet. So can we forego that talk until we know for sure?”

“Yeah- I just-“ I sighed. “It's just different for you and sometimes that's hard for me to deal with.”

“Different meaning I'm the one making decisions?” He asked.

“Partially.” I groaned as I began walking again. “Just disregard me and my need for independence and forget I said anything about any of this- okay?”

It was something that had weighed on me for a while. Normally in a relationship, if things were going south you could tell. Or you could at least try to work things out. With this, it could end as quickly as it started.

“No- no, you said I could ask anything.” He said, trailing behind me. “What else makes it different?”

“I’ve been here before and done this.” I shook my head in frustration. “So there’s that.”

As we neared the kitchens Ben asked me if I meant being one of six girls he could end up with, giving me a small smile.

“Smartass,” I muttered, feeling the mood lighten ever so slightly.

I looked up at him with a much more serious demeanour. I explained that I’d been referring to being on the verge of getting married and being at the start of your life.

“Ah. That.” His nose scrunched up for a moment. “Intimidating.”

“Intimidating?” I asked as we stopped in front of the kitchen doors.

“Being married.” Ben clarified. “I don't mind the whole relationship part, because I want to be with that one, specific person. But marriage seems like a whole other ballgame.”

“Are you afraid you’ll get stuck?” I tilted my head to the side.

That could be a very reasonable fear he had. It could be entirely possible that out of thirty-five girls not a single one was perfect for him. I doubted it- but it was possible. From the way, he had a calming presence I imagined he’d fit well with Viv, or with his quirkiness, he’d do well with Gabby.

“In the relationship?”

“No- on a rooftop full of baby birds.” I smiled, rolling my eyes. “Yes the relationship- oh shit that was mean, I'm sorry.”

Ben let out a snort and told me he thought it had been funny.

“And not necessarily stuck. “ He added after a small pause. “I mean... don't people get more time than this? To build a relationship before getting engaged and married.”

“Well- who’s to say you have to get engaged and married the moment this all ends.” I shrugged with my one good arm. “You’ve basically got six girlfriends at the moment so when this is all over couldn’t you just have the one for a while and then get engaged and married?”

“I... don't know. That's not how it's been done in the past. I mean, look at my parents. They're constantly called the "cutest couple in Illéa" and they got engaged right away.” He explained.

I obviously wasn’t the biggest champion of keeping up with customs. Born out of wedlock, breaker of multiple laws, habitual drinker- wasn’t exactly fitting for the definition of the word “traditional”.

“And?” I argued. “You’re not your father and none of the girls here are your mother. So why should you have to try and copy their love story? Make your own.”

“But theirs is so good.” He told me after letting out a small groan, before adding with a tired laugh.  “I'm not quite there though.”

“And yours could be better for all you know- and you shouldn’t be there… I’d be worried if you were.” I smiled letting go of his hand. I turned away to push open the doors, but the stopped so I could motion to his eyes. “Normally I’d cover your eyes but I can’t so…”

“I think everyone would be worried if I was already there.” He told me as he shut his eyes.

With a snort, I joked that sometimes he worried me in general. I pushed open the door then walked behind him and set my good hand on his waist.

“That's not the first time I've heard that, by the way.” Ben began walking forward.

“From me?” I asked, guiding him along.

“From everyone.” He put his hands out in front of his body. “You know I've walked this kitchen since I took my first steps, right? We're about to hit the island.”

“Shit,” I muttered, stepping around in front of him.

I pressed my back up against the edge of the island as Ben snickered. He took another step forward and put his arms around my waist. And true to his word his eyes remained shut.

“I know my way around.”

For a split second, I studied his face as I sometimes did when I thought maybe he wasn’t looking. I desperately wanted to memorise these moments because I knew someday- and soon at that- we might not have this. I wanted to remember the good things.

“But you don’t know everything.” I playfully tapped his nose. “Now before you open your eyes should tell you I’m giving you a free pass to lie to me- just this once.”

I hadn’t been able to create my masterpiece myself so I wasn’t entirely sure it’d be the same as when I did it back home.

“Lie about what exactly?”

“Open.” I smiled up at him.

One thing first.” He said, leaning down. Ben fumbled for a moment before kissing me.

“You’re tricky, you know that?” I giggled.

I waited until he started opening his eyes to step out of the way. He began to grin when his eyes spotted the cake. Ben called me an angel- which I resisted the urge to roll my eyes at- then he gave me another quick kiss before letting go of me so he could inspect the cake.

It was a flourless chocolate torte with a chocolate ganache that coated the outside. There was also a raspberry reduction to go over the top because the tart taste was perfect with the richness of the cake. Normally I would have also added just a little dollop of mascarpone on top of each slice but unfortunately, the kitchen didn’t have any.

“And to think you were scared.” I chuckled. “Though don’t say that until you’ve tried it. My maid, Astrid, made it and I gave the orders- which she didn’t appreciate but I got shot so she had to.”

Astrid hadn’t really seemed to believe me when I told her I needed her help baking a cake. It was even harder to convince her once I told her what type of cake it was. But the injury card was a doozy and she felt guilted into saying yes.

Ben let out a short laugh then spared me a glance.

“It's true either way.” He said, turning to presumably search for flatware.

“One step ahead of you.”

I pointed over to another counter where I’d set everything out before I’d gone to get him. There were a couple plates, forks, and a wine glass ready for us. Ben brought over the plates and cutlery first then went back for the wine glass.

“Only one?” He questioned, raising a brow and the glass in unison.

“I can’t drink.” I nodded solemnly then pointed to the fridge. “There’s a bottle of white wine in there and a raspberry reduction for the cake.”

I’d attempted to sneak into the wine cellar again- which hadn’t exactly worked out. Given the recent increase in security, I’d unsurprisingly been caught. After putting on quite the show and going into great detail about how the tart flavour of a white wine would perfectly compliment the cake the guard finally had escorted me into the wine cellar. I’d had to pick the perfect bottle while being watched like a hawk.

“Mm. Well if you won't drink then I really don't have to.” Ben went to the fridge and pulled out a bowl with the raspberry sauce.

“Oh no. Mr, you need to drink for me.” I shook my head with a smile. “Let me live through you.”

I was counting down the days until I was completely medication free. I’d even had to forgo putting in the rum in the cake- which had hurt me immensely.

The pairing is perfect so I’m especially not letting you out of this one.

I thought it was probably best I didn’t bring up my run-in with security.

“You sure?”

“Positive.” I gave him a quick not then chuckled under my breath. “God I’d make the worst pregnant person.”

“I think you'd somehow manage for the sake of your children.” He told me with a laugh, bringing over the wine bottle.

“I think that’s what mothers are supposed to do so I’ll just have to- though I could be mean and either tell my partner they couldn’t have any alcohol, raw fish, and soft cheeses- or I could make them eat a ton of it for me.” My fingertips tapped against the island.

“Whoever it is would be happy to do both.” He stated, filling the wine glass halfway. I struggled for a moment to lift myself up onto the island. Ben reached out to help me but by that point, I’d already managed.

“Or there’s always the third option,” I said as I pulled the plates closed to me.

“Which is?”

“Doing it alone.” I shrugged, eyeing the cake.

“Having a kid by yourself?” He asked as he took the knife and began cutting into the cake, which I nervously watched.

“You might want to make them small- it’s kind of rich and I don’t think you’ll be able to finish all that.” I motioned to the overly ambitious slice he was working on, then nodded. “But yeah.”

In that instance, of course, I’d have to get married first and somehow ruin the marriage just in time to have a baby on my own. I didn’t exactly want to do things the way my mom had had to. Though knowing me I wouldn’t be surprised.

His lips pressed together in a way that puzzled me. I wasn’t sure if it was because he was disappointed by my idea or if he was equally as confused as I was.

“We'll just share this one then.” Ben handed me a fork then picked up the bowl of raspberry sauce. “You don't see yourself... I don't know, having a partner with kids? Or you don't mind either way?”

“No- just life doesn’t always work out how you want it to and sometimes you have to entertain other ideas.”

“What's that like?” There was a hint of teasing as he poured the raspberry reduction over the slice of torte.

“Honestly not fun.” I tapped my fork against his. “You first- wait I forgot the candle.”

Something told me my dearest Jam had never had the absolute pleasure of peeing on a stick then waiting a few eternal minutes. But that also meant he’d never known how stunningly beautiful a single line was. It really made you understand why all those women in commercials are twirling in fields.

Thank god I forgot the candle. I was not in the mood for a follow-up question to the little comment I’d made- especially since I was pretty sure he didn’t know what I’d meant.

“Are you going to sing too?” He flashed me a grin.

“Can I hum it?” I asked. “Or is singing what the birthday boy wants?”

“Singing is definitely what the birthday /man/ wants.” He corrected me, then picked the candle up from the counter and plopped it into the slice.

I jokingly rolled my eyes. Technically he was a man but that boyish charm and grin didn’t help his case. To me, he’d be a boy until he was eighty.

“Oh fine.” I smiled and shook my head. “Light it up birthday man.”

He lit the candle then lifted the plate up between us. Ben gave me an expectant look as he leaned into the island with his hip.

You’re lucky I like you.

I groaned then took a deep breath. I did my best rendition of Happy Birthday- interjecting after the first two lines to jokingly tell him I hate him.

“Happy birthday dearest Jammy, happy birthday to you.” I finished my song.

He was laughing by the time I had finished. Leaning in closer he blew out the flame.

“You have a nice voice, you know,” Ben told me, looking back up at me.

“I mean it's not too bad within the tone-deaf whale community- and with a little work maybe I can be considered good to tone-deaf walruses as well.” I winked at him. “I hope that wish was a good one”

“A very good one. Like your voice.” He grinned.  

Ben picked up a fork then stabbed a piece onto the tongs before holding it up to me. Semi horrified I asked if he was trying to feed me. My gaze shifted between the fork and him.

“It's because you're incapacitated. And I've never done it before. Giving you first honours.”

Questionable word choice, Jam Jam. I didn’t want to let him but I remember the deal I’d made with him. He would do less if I let him do more.

“As you wish.” I sighed, then opened my mouth in a way that made me feel like a baby bird.

“Interesting.” He gave me a sweet smile as he spooned- forked…? the piece of cake into my mouth.

I brought my hand up to cover my mouth as I chewed. When I was finished I asked what he thought was interesting. Before taking a bite he told me he’d meant feeding another person.

“Yeah- normally that's reserved for infants...” I agreed as I watched him just about melt as he took a bite, which brought a smile to my face.

“I've only fed a baby once. At least you didn't spit up on me.”

“Have you?” I asked as he ate some more.

I took my fork then cut off a piece of cake and held it up. With a grin, I told him it was my turn. Ben nodded, saying he’d been cute, then opened his mouth. As I put the cake into his mouth I made sure to get a little bit onto his nose.

“Whose baby?” I asked as Ben blinked at me then shot me a flat look.

“The son of an Italian ambassador at a ball.” He scooped up some of the chocolate with one of his fingers then smeared it across one of my cheeks.

I made a face as I felt the chocolate from the cake begin to melt against my skin. I reached down to dip my finger in the raspberry sauce. With a smirk, I reached up and dabbed it onto his lips.

“Lucky duck, I’ve never met a baby.”

“You’ve never met a baby?”

“No.” I shook my head.

He gave me a look of surprise then paused. Ben leaned in with his own smirk to kiss me. I giggled against his lips.

Not a human baby at least. I’d met plenty of animal babies- raised them even. I was twenty-two and somehow I’d never gotten around to meeting an actual baby…

“Tasty.” He commented as he pulled back then went to take more cake.

“I hope you meant the cake.” I chuckled, taking my own piece.

“/Obviously/.” He gave me a sideways glance with a laugh.

“So…” I swung my legs out from the island. “Did you wish for something with a shorter delivery time?”

“Same wish. “ He said. “Hopefully shorter delivery time as of now.”

“You must really want that wish to come true.” I smiled- ignoring the fact that I was dying inside to know what it was.

He told me he really really wanted it to come true and I told him I hoped it did. Ben then gestured to the cake and thanked me. And when I told him any time I really meant it. I liked these moments of “any time” with him.

“Did you ever get yours?” He tilted his head. “A chance?”

I’d forgotten that I’d told him about that. Then again it had been the night of his birthday… so wishes were the last thing on my mind.

I continued trying to block most of that out. At some points, it was harder than others and sleep was still the only place free from the memories. Sometimes high pitched laughter or the sound of things falling was enough to send me into a full blown panic. I just tried to make sure I didn’t put myself in situations that might be hard- and if I did I had an exit plan well thought out. Though usually I could lie and say I was tired, which was enough since I was recovering from my injuries.

“I think so .” I nodded, shaking off the thought. “Though I got a bit of help from a nice prince.”

“Which one?” Ben asked with the corners of his mouth lifting. “You know several.”

I let out a dramatic sigh. He’d been right when he said he’d learned not to trust me. Messing with him was something I just loved to do.

“Gosh you know I didn’t want to tell you this way.” I touched my fingertip against the melted cake that was still on my cheek then tapped it onto his nose. “It’s Wyatt… I’m in love with him.”

His nose scrunched up as he asked if his brother felt the same way.

“I sure hope so- especially considering I'm willing to commit treason for him,” I smirked.

“What kind of treason?” Ben’s eyes narrowed.

He took a step closer then leaned in to kiss my cheek. The cake that had been on the tip of his nose smeared against my skin, causing me to groan.

“Wouldn't falling in love with him be treason enough?” I asked, looking up at him with raised brows.

“Considering I like you far too much, I'd say yes, I suppose.” He smiled a bit as he put both his arms around me. “Can I convince you otherwise?”

I reached out and put my right hand on his waist. Over the fabric of his shirt I could still feel how soft and warm his skin was.

“Well, that's a shame because I've been told I'm very stubborn and I don't think anything could convince me,” I told him.

“Are you sure? Really really sure?”

“Absolutely positive.” I sighed.

Without saying anything else been leaned in and kissed me deeply, lingering for a moment.

“Still sure?” He asked, pulling back just a hair.

“Less sure.” I giggled.

Liar. If anyone can change your mind it’s him.

“I'll try again.” He said with a small smile.

One hand went up to the side of my face while his other arm stayed wrapped around me. I made a surprised noise as he leaned in and kissed me again, though it was deeper and longer than before. I moved closer to him, holding his waist more firmly.

Before Ben, I wasn’t sure I’d ever enjoyed kissing as much. Sure kissing and beyond had been amazing with Alex- but as time went on I began to wonder if things had just been more physical. I’d loved him sure… but kissing Ben was different and felt better. Right.

As we continued kissing Ben ran one of his hands went through my hair. I back on the island a bit, placing the hand that had been holding his waist back onto the counter. To my surprise, my palm made contact with the unfinished cake instead.

At first, I wasn’t sure what to do but it became apparent Ben hadn’t noticed as he deepened the kiss. He again pulled me neared while I leaned in more. My hand went back up to his waist while I grabbed the fabric of his shirt.

One of Ben’s hands went behind my neck pulling me even closer. My grip on his shirt loosened and I reached up to put my hand on his cheek. A few moments later he pulled back in surprise, with the colour of his face flushed from kissing.

“Uh, what-“ He looked between my hand and the cake then let out a laugh. “What'd you do?”

I held back a laugh as I pulled my hand back and wiggled my fingers. My nose scrunched up while I explained that I’d touched the cake. With a smile, I reached up and smeared his other cheek with more chocolate.

“There- now it's even,” I said as he let out a snort.

“Thanks, just what I wanted.” Ben paused then looked down at his shirt with his eyebrows raising at the sight. “Nice, Lia.”

The was a lovely crinkly chocolate stain on his shirt roughly in the shape and size of a small fist. I had to admit it really completed his outfit.

“Well... you said purple wasn't your colour.” I gave him an innocent smile. “And the brown matches your eyes.”

I stuck a finger in my mouth and licked off some of the cake, while Ben reached for some napkins. He quickly wiped the chocolate off his face.

“You just love being coy, don't you?” An amused smile played across his lips.

I took the napkin he was holding and wiped the rest of the cake from my fingers. I doubted Astrid would appreciate chocolate stains on my clothes so I wanted to minimise the risk. However, it made me feel a bit bad about getting cake all over Ben’s shirt.

“I love being a lot of things.” I chuckled.

“But a bird especially, of course.”

I scooted closer to the edge of the island and smirked at him. As I made some chicken noises I pretended to flap my arm in the sling. With a small laugh, Ben reached out and put my arm down.

“Careful there, you're still injured.” He reminded me, as my nose scrunched up.

It was mostly a sore feeling in my shoulder by that point but I still had to be cautious. Despite the pain being less apparent I was still making sure to take my painkillers like clockwork. I had only a few days left of medication but I’d for sure be taking those until they were gone.

“I can't wait until it's healed,” I told him as I swung my legs a bit. “Help me down?”

“You? Asking for help? I should take a picture.” Outside of raising an eyebrow at me, Ben remained motionless.

I gave him a look that showed I wasn’t amused. I’m trying to compromise.

“I can always go back to just doing things myself- no picture needed,” I warned.

“No, no, I have to be good for something.” He snickered, wrapping an arm around my waist to help me down.

A jolt of pain ran up my ankles as I hit the floor but I ignored it. I’d stupidly forgotten to bend my knees. Or I was getting old.

/Practically a cougar./

“You're good for a lot of things.” I looked up at him.

“Probably. Eating for another.” Ben picked up a fork to eat some of the cake that had escaped my little accident.

“Not probably.” I shook my head, glancing at the cake, before adding with some certainty. “Definitely.”

“So vague.” He gave me a sideways glance then ate some more.

“I can be less vague if you want.” I retrieved my own fork from the counter to get another bite.

“Please.” He gestured to me, giving me an amused look as he leaned against the island.

“You're good at making people laugh, you wear cake wonderfully, and you're the most patient person I've ever met.”

Before meeting Ben I thought my mom was the most patient person, but Ben definitely took the cake- literally.

“Hm. Patient?” He asked, seemingly surprised by my comment. “Really?”

“Exceedingly.” I nodded.

“Give me one example.” Ben let out a short laugh.

There were countless times he’d put up with me. I made ill-timed jokes, wasn’t always the most understanding person, could not get along with his brother for the life of me…

“The way you put up with me for starters.” My eyebrows furrowed.

“That doesn’t require much patience believe it or not.”

Ben’s focus shifted to the cake as he reached for my hand and pulled me to his side. A heavy feeling formed in my chest as I felt the heat of his body and smelled his cologne. I leaned in closer.

Play it cool.

“Oh, it certainly does.” I nodded in argument. “There's a good reason Wyatt and I struggle.”

“Okay, that doesn’t surprise me.” He chuckled. “You two always seem at odds with one another.”

“We're working on it... I promise.” I groaned. “He even came and visited me in the hospital.”

Ben looked at me more intently after that revelation, with his head tilting curiously.

“How’d that go?”

“Well, he didn't smother me with my hospital pillow so it definitely could have gone worse.” I chuckled.

“Dramatic.” Ben rolled his eyes.

“Just the way you like me.” I teased, smiling up at him.

“The way I like you is dramatic?”

“Gosh, I hope so...” I mused. “It seems to be my default setting according to your brother.”

I’m sure Wyatt had all sorts of other kind words for me as well- because I certainly would have. Bitchy, horrible, self-centred…

“He’s not wrong.” He laughed before wiggling his eyebrows and adding. “What, are you so overcome with your deep and ravishing feelings for me?”

Ravishing? That’s quite the romance novel vocabulary, isn’t it?

“Yes, my dearest Jammy- I can't contain it any longer. I need you so badly.” I swooned dramatically.

Ben laughed, then dipped me a little.

“Don’t contain it. At all.”

He gave me a small peck and I sighed.

“Oh, Jam I won't.”

Using my good hand I pulled him down to me and kissed him passionately. Ben laughed along with me as I drew back. Keeping his arm around me he pulled me back to my feet.

“You’re sweet.”

“Mmmmm I disagree but thanks.” I gave him a kiss on the cheek.

“You don’t have to agree. I just know it.” Ben smiled then let go of me to start the cleanup.

“Just like I know how patient and kind you are.”

I went to pick up the cake so I could put it back in the fridge. By tomorrow it would probably be gone, but if I left it out much longer it would melt. If people were going to sneak pieces they would at least be properly chilled.

“Ah, flattery. Simple joys of life.” Ben put the dishes in the sink to begin washing up.

“Does it count as flattery if it's true?” I went back for the bowl of raspberry sauce and placed it next to the cake in the fridge.

“I’d say so.” He told me. “You’re obviously sweet and tenacious which is true, but you can take that as flattery.”

My nose scrunched up. Flattery or truth I wasn’t a fan of being showered in compliments.

“If you say so I guess...” I conceded.

“You should get used to the fact that I like to compliment you.” He laughed a bit.

Never going to happen.

“I'm more used to it now than I used to be,” I admitted. “Now the day Wyatt starts complimenting me is the day I'll really flip out.”

I leaned against the counter as I watched him clean. I’d have helped, but I was a bit useless with my arm bundled in a sling. No wonder Wyatt had really milked it when he’d fallen out of the tree. Life was so much easier when you didn’t have to do anything like dishes.

“He does at the right moments.” Ben snickered. “Unexpected but weirdly nice.”

“Not to me, he doesn't... The two of us are far too different I think.” I told him.

“Give it some time. I think you'll eventually get along.” He assured me.

“We're getting along as best we can- just sometimes our stubbornness clashes.”  

“Only sometimes?” Ben spared me a glance, with a small smile.

“Always?” I sighed.

I was trying to be optimistic. Besides we’d had had our moments early on where we’d gotten along. I wasn’t sure if Ben realised just how much I wanted things to work out with Wyatt. There was a bit of potential in my opinion and I thought maybe with some more work we could actually make decent friends.

“Bingo.” Ben splashed me with a bit of water, which I responded to by reaching down into the sink and splashing him back.

“Not true actually,” I argued. “We worked really well together on the pigeon fiasco.”

“Until he, you know, fell out of a tree.”

Ben used his sleeve to wipe some water off his face. /It’s a miracle it’s not all covered in cake./

“That's why I called it a /fiasco/.” I raised my eyebrows.

I’d thought it was hilarious after, but the two of them had really scared me. Poor Ben had slammed into the tree and hit his head, while Wyatt had somehow managed to fall out of a tree. Though for someone who claimed to be experienced I still wasn’t sure how that’d happened.

“There was only one good thing that came out of that day.”

“And what was that?” I asked.

If you say it was slamming into a tree I’m going to splash you again.

“The burritos we made.” He grinned.

There was definitely more to it than just burritos- no matter how good they were. All in all, it had been my best birthday to date.

“You also gave me my favourite flowers.” I smiled softly.

“Second good thing.” Ben looked at me with an even softer, sweeter smile.

He was wrong. There’d been something better than pigeons, or burritos, or flowers.

“And you kissed me just like this,” I said.

I leaned up to give him a kiss on the cheek, which caused his ears to turn a little red.

“I think that was the first time if I'm not mistaken.” He chuckled.

“It was.” I nodded.

I liked that day a lot. It was one of my favourites even. I hadn’t been in the palace that long and Ben didn’t know me well- and even after he got hurt he still did his best to make sure I had a good time.

A good sport.

Ben paused for a moment, going quiet for a little bit.

“Are you happy here?” He mused aloud.

I wasn’t exactly sure where that’d come from. Then again I wasn’t always the best with feelings- at least not when it came to sharing them. If I was unhappy you’d definitely know because I tended to get frustrated easily. But maybe Ben thought my happy moments weren’t genuine.

“Oh um.” I stammered in surprise, then took a second before continuing. “I think so... There's a lot I miss for sure but I like being here and spending time with you- and Viv.”

“Sorry, I know it’s random, I just-.” He shook his head as he put down the dish he was holding and faced me. “I wanted to make sure is all.”

It was funny to me that the master of hiding feelings would broach the subject with me. More was going on with Ben and something told me things weren’t exactly as peachy as he let on. But he wasn’t ready to share so I was just going to have to let go.

“Don't get me wrong there are moments where I'm not having the time of my life.” I motioned to my arm, which caused him to laugh a bit. “And others when I don't feel like I'm doing enough with my free time.”

That was one of the downsides of the Selection. I had all this time on my hands but I was living it up in the palace. There’d been “what if” moments I’d had, where I’d considered what I’d do supposing this worked out between us. But I had nothing tangible yet. The change I wanted the most wasn’t likely to happen any time soon, no matter how much we desperately needed it. I hadn’t made my peace with that fact yet, but I’d accepted it. And all I knew is that I wanted to actually do something to make a difference.

“But for the most part I really am- I promise.” I nodded.

“Alright. Good.” He smiled.

“Don't worry about me too much.” I winked at him. “I'm doing just fine.”

I appreciated his concern, but sometimes I worried that he was a bit too anxious. I could take care of myself. Maybe I could even take care of him if he’d let me.

“Worrying is all I do.” Ben rolled his eyes and clicked his tongue.

Oh trust me, I know.

“Well, maybe it's time to find a new hobby,” I suggested, shaking my head at him.

“I have plenty other hobbies.” He told me as he went to dry his hands off, having finished the dishes.

“I know you do,” I smirked, pointing to the chocolate stain on his shirt.

“Hey, you’re only fuelling my hobbies,” Ben smirked back.

“I'm glad to hear it,” I said.

Well if making out in chocolate cake is a new hobby then sign me up.

I moved away from the counter. There was something I was forgetting, I just couldn’t put my finger on what it was.

“Thank you, by the way. Sweetness continues.”

“Like I said, any time.” I smiled up at him.

Ben leaned down to kiss me softly. When he pulled back he told me he probably needed to go since work was busy.

“Of course.” I nodded. “I should probably get back to my room before Astrid sends a search party since I'm supposed to be taking it easy.”

“Lia, those instructions are there for a reason.” He shot me a flat look.

“If they're there to drive me insane they're certainly working.”

I was terrible at just laying around all day. I needed to be up doing something, anything. It didn’t matter how much I liked reading and all that. I’d finished Pride and Prejudice twice in the past few weeks and that was enough for the foreseeable- no matter how amazing Mr Darcy was.

“For your health.” Ben sighed, as his eyes went to the ceiling. “You and your independence.”

“My health means nothing if I don't have my sanity,” I argued.

“Or your lung.” He raised his eyebrows at me.

I had to admit he had me there. I liked breathing properly and was looking forward to not being winded by something as simple as a flight of stairs.

“Boo you and your logic.” I scrunched up my nose at him.

“My greatest weapon.” He grinned, reaching out to squeeze my hand. “Get back to bed so I can go to my meeting.”

There was something a bit attractive about having him tell me what to do, but in a toned down way.  

Aha! I wanted to get some cake for Astrid.

“Fine.” I sighed. “Let me just grab a piece of cake for Astrid and I promise I'll go.”

“Thank you.” He let go of my hand and began walking backwards. “See you soon.”

Not if I see you first.

“Late gator.” I flashed him one last smile then went back to the fridge.

[thyremainder]

c7 - grander celebrating

i know this is late but let’s just pretend it’s keeping in line with meredith’s lack of punctuality🙈. and so i present a delightfully festive rp thanks to anya (@raphael-schreave) who is constantly finding new ways to break my heart for raffy but also to mend meredith’s broken heart with joy and kindness. so without further ado here’s another favorite rp full of gift giving, mistletoe, and a trip to gingerbread central.

grander celebrating | wc: 19.3k