#choicestrr

[princess-geek]

See you soon, my dear king :)

[elles-choices]

Godsend: Chapter 1 & 2 (TRR AU, Liam x MC)

A/N: Hey guys, I’m so excited about this series that I’m sharing a double chapter with you! I hope you guys like it as much as I do :)

Chapter 1: Hometown Glory

Pairing: Liam x MC (Catherine aka Cathy), Drake x Meg

Summary: As the spare to the throne, Liam leaves Cordonia to University in the States. Hoping for some normalcy in a life outside the spotlight, he leaves his comfort zone embarking in new adventures and falling in love for the first time until fate strikes.

Disclaimer: Some characters belong to Choices by Pixel Berry

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Chapter 1: Hometown Glory

Liam walks through the hallways of the place on the way to the Government wing to see his father. He has no idea why, but he was summoned by Constantine and this usually happens when he and his bother are in trouble — his thoughts start racing but he can’t think of anything that he might have done or taken part of. He takes a deep breath before knocking at the study door, slowly opening it. He sees his father on the phone, with a had gesture he signalizes Liam to come in and sit down, waiting until the call is over.

„Very well, Hakim. Why don’t we save the details for our dinner next week? Perfect! Alright, talk soon, old friend“, Constantin hangs up and looks at Liam very seriously. „So Liam, I heard from Regina that you were talking about transferring to an U.S. University“, he stands up and walks to the bar cart, pouring himself and Liam one fingers of whisky.

„Yes, father. I believe that living abroad would broaden my horizon and I’d like to get to know other cultures before I finish college and start working in service of the crown“, he looks at his father, who hands him a drink.

Constantin walks back to his chair, „Regina thinks it will be good for you“, he sits down and looks at Liam, „and I cant deny, I think it is a good idea myself“. Liam smiles and his eyes widen. „I pulled some strings and due to your impeccable curriculum and grades, you were admitted into Stanford. You will be flying next week to California“, he smiles.

Liam jumps from his chair and walks up to his father to hug him, „Father! I can’t believe it… I never thought you would ever consider letting me go! Thank you so so much!“, he smiles.

„Liam, my son, I just wish you would have come to me first“, he hugs him, patting him on the back. „However, there will be rules!“, his tone becomes stern and Liam goes back to his seat, „There can be no scandals and nobody can know you are a prince“, he opens a drawer, picking up a brown envelope and putting a few papers on the table, „In the U.S you will be known as Liam Thompson, a British exchange student from London. Only the US Government and the University know your true identity. This is your new passport, drivers license and everything you will need — The British Government has helped us with everything and it’s only be possible thanks to our shared ancestry with the English Monarchy, Queen Victoria. So, next time Elizabeth invites us for a wedding, we better show up!“, he smirks. „I’m taking your platinum credit card, you will get a normal one with  a comfortable limit to live off but not too high to draw attention — if someone asks about your comfortable life though, tell them your parents are bankers. You will live near campus in a two bedroom apartment that you will share with Drake. Your security detail will occupy the apartment in front of yours and will be always in your shadows, making sure that you are okay“, he puts everything back into the envelope and hands it to Liam. „However, if the press finds out about it and your whereabouts or if anyone discover your true identity… that’s it! You will have to come back home, understood?!“

Liam smiles, „Understood, father! This is only fair…“

„Alright, I guess you have a lot to get done before flying out to your new life in the states, so you better get it done!“, he walks up to Liam and hugs him once again. „Now, I will try to track down your brother to tell him the news. I’m sure he will want to say goodbye in style!“, he chuckles. 

„Okay. I really have a lot to get done. See you later, dad and tell Regina thanks from me!“, he smiles and walks out of his father’s study.

——————

One week later…

Leo knocks at Liam’s apartment urgently, „Come on, little brother! The guys are already waiting!“. Liam opens the door suddenly and Leo almost falls into his room, causing Liam to chuckle.

„Alright! I can’t even get ready for my own going away party…“, he shakes his head while his brother puts his arm around his neck and they walk down the stairs to meet Drake, Maxwell and Bertrand in the entrance of the palace. Liam greets each one of them and says: “If everyone is already here, what are we waiting for? Let’s get this party started!“. The guys cheer and one after the other enter the limousine but shortly before Liam’s turn to go in, he hears a familiar voice behind him.

„So, it is true?!“, Olivia stands there, her eyes welling up with tears.

„Guys, go ahead, I have to talk to Liv for a second… and no worries, I’ll be right behind you. Now, go, go, go!“, he shuts the car door and watches as they leave, turning back to Olivia. „Let’s go for a walk.“

Olivia crosses her arms in front of her and walks out of the palace with Liam following behind her.  Heading to the gardens, she says: „I can’t believe you were going to leave without saying goodbye! I really mean nothing to you…“, she lowers her head, looking at her feet.

„Liv, don’t say that“, he stops her and puts his hands on her shoulders. „You are one of my best friends. It’s just too complicated right now“

„I don’t wanna be your friend, Liam. I want more… that kiss meant something to me… I thought you felt the same way“, she looks at him, tears streaming down her cheeks.

He hugs her and she rests her head on his chest, „I’m sorry, Liv. I thought, perhaps there was more there but… I love you as a friend, as a sister and it won’t change!“

Olivia pushes him away, „Wow Liam… as a sister?! You kiss me and then tell me you love me as your sister?“, she looks at him for a moment in silence, her face expecting something from him but there is nothing there, „Good. I wish you a good flight, Liam. Have fun with your new life!“, she walks away.

„Liv… Liv! I’m sorry for hurting you… I really am!“, he says, walking in her direction but she doesn’t answer, just makes some motion with her hands and leaves. Liam watches her as she goes, torn between going after her or letting her alone but he knows, it’s better to leave things this way — he will never be able give her what she wants from him.

——————

Liam arrives at the beer garden thirty minutes later and everybody notices due to his facial expression that he had a lot in his mind. He sits next to Leo and Drake, watching Maxwell and Bertrand greeting someone on another table.

„What happened? You look down… it’s your going away party, you should be happy to leave this place for a while to enjoy some time with people of your own age“, Leo says.

„He kissed her, that’s what happened!“, Drake says sipping his pint, earning him an annoyed glance from Liam before he looked at Leo.

„Yeah, I just made my situation with Liv a lot more complicated“, he takes Leo’s pint and takes a gulp, „She spent the entire summer throwing herself at me, I thought maybe there could be something there… but there isn’t. Now she is hurt and mad at me“.

Leo takes the pint back from Liam’s hand, „She will survive, Li. This was a stupid move though, everybody knows she has been crazy about you from a young age. However, what is done is done. You are leaving and now with you moving away, she will have no other choice than get over it“, Leo wraps an arm around his neck, „“I’ll miss you, brother but I am glad you will be able to leave this madness. And I envy you for all those American girls… make me proud, little brother!“.

Liam laughs, „Yeah, I’m pretty sure being an asshole is not part of my curriculum“, they all laugh and Maxwell and Bertrand join the guys.

„Hey, what did we miss?“, Maxwell says smiling.

„Not much, just my brother being an ass…“, Liam laughs.

„Wait, you are talking to the next king, Liam. You better show some respect!“, Bertrand says in a very serious tone.

„Too late for that, Bertrand!“, Drake says smirking.

„Alright, who wants more beer?“, the guys put their hands up excited, „Good, let’s get this party started! My brother is leaving to the land of opportunity, we have a lot to celebrate!“

To be continued…

For more chapters go to my MASTERLIST in my bio.

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Chapter 2: Party In The USA

It’s been three days since Liam and Drake arrived in Palo Alto. While Liam has been busy buying books and getting ready for summer quarter, Drake has been out getting to know their new surroundings. Suddenly Liam hears a knock at his bedroom door:

„Come in!“, he looks at the door, closing his book.

„Hey Li, what are you up to?, Drake asks.

„Just catching up with my reading. Where have you been all day?“, he says smirking.

„Yeah, I wanted to go shortly to the coffeeshop but I met this cute girl, Meghan“, he walks into the room and sits down on a chair, looking at Liam, „She showed me around… and she invited us to this party tonight“, he puts his feet on Liam’s bed.

„Not a chance, Drake!“, Liam pushes his feet away from his bed, „I don’t know anyone yet and I’m not going to be your third wheel!“.

Drake chuckles, „She has a roommate… for what I head you two are perfect for each other, she is all about studying but she is cute, I saw her photo!“, Drake stands up, „And I’m not asking you to come, I’m telling you to because if you don’t… then her roommate is going to be the third wheel and you can’t let it happen!“, Drake smirks and Liam throws a pillow at him.

“Alright... but only because I can’t leave the poor girl alone with you two making out!”, he takes his book in his hands, lying down while Drake leaves his room.

—————

When Drake and Liam arrive at the party, they walk around looking for Meghan, finding her next to the drink table.

„Hey! There you are, I thought you guys had changed your minds!“, she says hugging Drake, „I take this is your roommate? Hi, I’m Meghan“, the petit brunette smiles friendly, shaking his hand.

„Meg, where is your roommate. Liam is already looking forward to get to know her!“, Drake chuckles and Liam throws him an annoyed glance.

„Cathy?! She should be here any minute. Last time I talked to her she was leaving the hospital to go home and change“, she says handing the guys a cup of beer.

„Is she okay?“, Liam asks.

„Oh, yeah. She is a med student doing rotation, so basically she is assisting residents…”, she sees a familiar face coming to their direction, “There she is!“, she says excited. Liam turns around to see the 5’8 blonde with big green eyes and the sweetest smile he has ever seen — she is wearing a red floral summer dress and flats. He stares at her for a moment feeling his heart skip a beat. Meghan hugs Cathy and says: „So good to see you! How was your day?“.

„Good but I’m exhausted!“, she looks at the two guys behind Meghan, „So, I see you have made new friends already…“, she giggles.

„Yeah, these are the exchange students I told you about, Drake Walker and Liam Thompson. Guys, this is Catherine Levine but everybody calls her Cathy“, she says making them acquainted.

„Hi Drake, nice to meet you“, she shakes his hands and turns to Liam, „Hi, nice to meet you“, she offers him her hand and Liam takes it, kissing her knuckles without taking his eyes of hers. Catherine blushes and looks at the others. Drake shoves him discreetly and Liam releases her hand.

„Hi Cathy, I’m Liam and it is nice to meet you too“, he can’t stop looking at her, Meghan throws a glance at Drake and he says:

„Yeah, you two get to know each other… we have to go somewhere to do something else…“, he takes Meghan’s hand and they leave chuckling.

„Can I offer you something to drink? Perhaps a beer?“, Liam asks.

„I’m not of drinking age… and I don’t really like alcohol, thanks anyways. But I’d love a glass of orange juice“, Cathy smiles and leans on the wall next to Liam. „So, you are British?!“, she looks to the side and catches him looking at her.

„Yeah, how did you know?!“, he smiles, handing her her drink.

„Your accent makes it obvious… and no American guy would be such a gentleman and kiss a girl’s hand“, she giggles and Liam blushes. 

„I’m sorry for that… force of habit... I mean, not that I do it often... I just...”, he closes his eyes afraid he is making a fool of himself and breaths deeply for a second, “I never meant for you to feel uncomfortable“, he mumbles.

Cathy turns to him, „I didn’t… I thought it was really cute“, she smiles and takes a sip of her drink. She looks at some drunk guys trying to flirt with a girl, „I don’t really know why I agreed to this… I can’t stand these parties where people only come with the intent of getting drunk!“.

„So you hate college parties then?“, he chuckles, „Do you wanna go outside? It’s kinda loud in here“, Liam says nervously, „But don’t feel pressured to go with me… I mean, it is only an offer“.

„I know, Liam… relax, I don’t bite!“, she smiles, putting a hand on his shoulder, „Let’s go“. They walk through the crowd on their way outside and make their way along the sidewalk for a couple of minutes until they arrive in front of a car and Cathy sits on its hood, „Come on“, she taps on the space next to her.

„Won’t we get in trouble if the owner sees us?“, Liam says looking around.

„Nope… because I’m the owner, come on!“, she leans back against the windshield, looking at the sky, „So, what are you majoring in?“, she looks at him.

„Political Science and Economics“, he looks at her, „I was told you are a med student…“, he smiles.

„Yes, I always wanted to be a doctor but it does take a lot of my time and energy…“, she looks back to the sky. „Are you excited about living in another country?“

Liam chuckles, „You can’t imagine how happy I am! Back home, everything is so… different“, he looks down, his voice expresses sadness, „It was fine as long as my brother was around but when he was old enough to leave, things changed… thankfully Drake was always there for me“, he looks at her shortly, „I don’t wanna bother you with these things... let’s talk about something happier“. 

Cathy turns to see him and hugs him shortly, whispering into his ear, „Whenever you need someone to talk to, just let me know“, she looks into his eyes and smiles. They sit back for a while watching the sky in silence from a moment and Liam couldn’t stop himself from look at her every now and then. Suddenly, Catherine’s phone rings and she answers:

„Hey! We are at the car… when you leave the house just take the path to the left, along the sidewalk. We are waiting!“, she hangs up. „They are coming and we will drive to our apartment. Do you wanna come?“, she smiles.

Liam smiles brightly, „Yeah… sure. But we didn’t have time to buy a car yet. Do you mind if we drive with you?“

„If you trust me with your life“, she winks at him and gets out of the hood of the car, giggling.

Meghan and Drake get closer, he has an arm around her waist. Liam looks at Cathy and smirks and Meghan says: „Okay, okay… nothing to see here! Let’s go, this party sucks“. They all get in the car and drive to Catherine’s and Meghan’s apartment. They order in some pizza and chat for a while before Meghan and Drake disappear in the apartment.

Cathy and Liam are in the living room laughing together talking about movies and whatnots, when she hears something, „Psst…“, she says holding a hand up, „What is that?“, she hears faint panting, moaning, grunts and start blushing when she looks at Liam.

He starts laughing and whispers, „What about we give them some privacy and step out for a minute?“. Cathy stands up and leads Liam to the balcony, where he sees a telescope. „Is it yours?“

„Yeah, stargazing is one of my hobbies“, she leans on the railing and looks at the sky.

„This is a fascinating hobby. What is your favorite constellation? And can you show me?“, he leans on the railing looking at her.

„Orion… but you probably already know how to find it“, she giggles.

„No, tell me more about it, please“, Liam smiles.

„Okay… According to greek mythology, Orion was a gigantic hunter with supernatural powers. He was very strong but extremely dumb and one day he said he would kill every animal on the planet, enraging the goddess Gaia, who sent a scorpion to kill him. The giant soon realized he couldn’t shoot an arrow through the scorpion’s armor and jumped into the sea to avoid the creature. Artemis hit him with an arrow after Apollon tell her, this giant was a terrible villain. When she saw the body, she realized it was her friend Orion and begged the gods to bring him back to life but they refused, so she put his picture in the sky“, she smiles excited and places herself in front of Liam. He is so close to her that he can smell the lavender scent of her hair, „Hold me tight with one hand and give me your other hand“, he does as she says, „There, you see?“, she takes his hand pointing her finger to the stars, „Head, shoulders, the belt…“. Liam chuckles and Cathy turns around, „Wait… you tricked me! You already know, don’t you!“, she looks up into his eyes, he is still holding her tight.

„Yeah but I enjoyed your lesson anyway…“, he realizes how close they are and feels a force pulling him to her. He tries to resist it and his hand leaves her waist. „It’s kinda late… you said you were tired, I should go“.

„I’d love you to stay but I actually have to wake up early“, she sighs, „ But I’ll drive you home and no discussion… it’s not like I will get any sleep now with those two putting on a show“, she giggles.

Liam stares into her eyes for a moment, „Okay… Thank you!“.

Cathy takes his hand and they walk to the car. It was a five minutes drive and they listened to some music, Liam kept glancing at her, admiring her beauty while she was focused on singing the songs out loud. 

The car stops in front of Liam’s building, „So, here we are…“, she looks at him smiling.

„Give me your phone, please!“, he says with a chuckle.

„What? Why?“, she says giggling.

„Just give me your phone, you will see!“. She hands it to him and he types something in it, „Here… now you have my number. Let me know you are alright when you get home!“, he looks at her nervously for a few seconds, not really wanting to leave. Then, he leans in slowly to kiss her, noticing she is blushing. She looks down to her hands and he goes for her cheeks instead. „Sweet dreams, Cathy“, his voice is husky and tender.

„Sweet dreams, Liam“, she looks into his eyes one last time before he leaves and she drives away.

—————

After a shower, Liam lies in his bed thinking about this evening and he can’t stop thinking about her. He wanted so bad to kiss her but he was afraid of overstepping the boundaries with her. He doesn’t know her, yet he knows that there is something special about her, something that makes him nervous and his heart beat faster.  Her smile, her eyes and those lips of hers, something sensual and angelical at once. Suddenly a text comes in, pulling him back out of his thoughts. He opens it and smiles:

„I’m home. It was nice meeting you, Liam. Have a good night, x Cathy“

Quickly, he answers, „I’m glad. It was nice meeting you too, Cathy. I hope I see you around soon!“ And leaves his phone on the nightstand, knowing it will be hard to sleep thinking of her.

To be continued…

For more chapters go to my MASTERLIST in my bio.

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[ownworldresident]

Side By Side. Chapter 5: Influence

King Liam x Rayne (MC): With new additions to their family, Rayne and  Liam re-evaluate their relationship dynamic.

Disclaimer: Most  characters are the property of Pixelberry studios. I am just borrowing them and will return them when I am done.

MASTERLIST

“What if you went to them?”

“What do you mean?”

“If you think that the nobles are too scared to come to the wedding after… after the ball, then maybe you could go to them, convince them that we need to stand strong, and that we are stronger than our enemies. A personal visit from the King and the…” Rayne looked at the not-yet-queen, who raised an eyebrow and smirked at her. Swallowing the lump in her throat she continued, looking directly and determinately at the Countess, “and their future queen, that's sure to help” the room was silent when she finished, Constantine considered her words with a frown, Madeline crossed her arms and gave her a searching look, Liam smiled at her warmly, then looked at the others.

“That might work, a show of support, we can unite against the assassins. Show them that Cordonia will not bow to such a threat” considering the King Father’s hostility towards her, he now treated her with respect. Rayne was not sure if that was because she was not going to be queen, because of her significance to Liam, or because of the talk they had had during the engagement tour. It seemed unlikely that he had suddenly decided she was suitable for the court and consultation.

“We would have to push back our wedding darling, that would be tragic” Rayne looked from Madeline’s feigned hurt to Liam’s set jaw and clenched fists and wished she could reach out and touch him but couldn't with these two watching, “I just can't wait to be married to you” the woman came around Liam’s other side and lifted an arm to touch his. She looked at Rayne with an amused expression, and Rayne met her gaze with irritation. It wasn't at Madeline herself perse, it was at the way she was treating Liam and the malcontent that wouldn't get them anywhere. Taking comfort in the fact that she could hopefully help him relax tonight. The not-yet-queen would never care enough for that. Lifting her chin up, she trained confidence back on the Countess, narrowing her gaze in a challenge.

“Whilst I appreciate your anticipation Countess Madeline, Lady Rayne’s suggestion has some merit. If we can bolster the people's faith in the monarchy, then we should do it. Thank you for your insight, Rayne” Constantine nodded to her. It made her uncomfortable when he did not address her with a title.

“Thank you, your Majesty”

“Of course it does, though to be perfectly candid I still do not understand why Lady Rayne is here at all, she is not noble, and the assassination attempt was aimed at the monarchy, not the people” Madeline looked her up and down as though she were sizing her up.

“It is an excellent idea” said Liam finally, we will postpone the wedding to visit each of the noble houses in person, to invite them and to reassure them of our strength” sounding relieved at the prospect of postponing his wedding, Liam smiled at Rayne, then looked to Madeline, “and to answer your question Madeline, the attack targeted Rayne as well. She has just as much of a stake in this as we do” that was a bold statement, she thought, and evidently so did Madeline as she scowled. Clutching the chair in front of her, Rayne closed her eyes as the memory of the ball came back… the lights going out, the armoured man with the gun pointed at her… she grimaced, then breathed deeply and came back to the room.

“A Unity Tour” she said quietly, opening her eyes to see them all looking at her, “that's what you could call it” Liam looked worried, but nodded.

“It’s settled then. Thank you, Rayne”

 The office seemed alien to him when Liam finally returned to it. Three weeks he had given himself to spend with the twins and with Rayne. Rayne might not see it that way, but he knew she was his partner, his soulmate. He knew she was the only woman he had, could, or would ever love and that they were partners in every sense but title. But now he had to get back to this, back from being a father and a partner to be the King of Cordonia. Regardless of her encouragement, it still felt strange to be away from them, where he could miss something.

Unfortunately the flipside was that his workload had piled up in his absence. Some things that he did not trust to Madeline, some things that she refused to do, and some things that could only be completed or approved by him. Letters for consideration of proposals… documents that had been through the council and needed his approval… memos from council and staff and community leaders… things that took time in an everyday capacity and now required long hours. Physical copies were easier to go through, and he would not compromise detail orientation in favour of speed. Some of them contained congratulations to him and Rayne which made him smile, but also made him wish that he was back there with them. Again he reminded himself, he had a responsibility to the people, in addition to Rayne and his children. As soon as he had come in that morning, he had organised the piles of work according to their complexity, time consumption, and urgency, and started working quickly. Every couple of hours his assistant would come in with a fresh cup of coffee, they were his salvation. After a very early start and about six hours making his way through complicated documents the door opened without a knock and Madeline walked in. From the sweetness of her expression he could tell this would be an unpleasant interaction.

“Husband” that opening confirmed it. Liam looked at his watch. Still early.

“Good morning Madeline, what can I do for you? Thank you for working through some of these in my absence”

“You don't need to thank me, Liam. I am the Queen. I take my responsibilities and commitments seriously” Liam put down his pen and leant back in his chair, projecting confidence to outmatch hers. She noticed and narrowed her eyes at him.

“Nevertheless, I appreciate it” he smiled, unphased by her clear intention to overpower him.

“Indeed” she smiled again, “this is something I would like to do for you” she glanced and then gestured to the unattended piles of work on his desk, “I would like to offer a suggestion that would allow you to lessen the burden on yourself of having to split your time between the prince and princess, and your duties as the King. Those responsibilities do not go away just because you have re-prioritised to assist your mistress with your children”

“I am aware of this, Madeline” Liam gritted his teeth and fought to keep his tone diplomatic. It was not worth taking the bait.

“Of course you are Liam, you are the King” she walked towards the documents and opened the first. Liam knew it was a proposal by a lord in a bordering duchy, and the first paragraph was a lengthy congratulations and in support of Rayne. Madeline scowled, which satisfied him, before schooling a warm smile at him a second later, “as such, for the benefit of our people, I have appointed a nanny to help Rayne. I know she will appreciate it, especially since it came from her Queen. If, however, she does not understand, you may have to convince her that it is the best course. Cordonia will suffer without a King, Liam, there is only so much I can do” with increasing difficulty, Liam remained calm and his head clear, a very small, well-practised fake smile on his lips.

“Thank you, Madeline, for your thoughtfulness and generosity, however it was unnecessary. I am perfectly capable, as you see, of splitting my time effectively” he gestured to the work he had done already, more than twice what he would usually achieve by this time and all thoroughly read through with notes and adjustments.

“Liam you have had four coffees this morning. You look as if you haven't slept for days, and if you want to continue this you will remain in that routine. It is unsustainable, my love, and will hurt you” the appearance of hurt was something that Madeline had used before, but he knew it was a ploy. He was compassionate and forgiving by nature and she tried to take advantage of that. Sometimes she succeeded. Not this time.

“Fortunately I do not have to do this long term. It is only until I am caught up on these, and then I will be back to a normal routine. I appreciate your looking out for my wellbeing”

“You know that Rayne needs all the help she can get. She couldn't handle being queen, yes I know about that, and the heirs to the Cordonian throne need to be taught right, starting now” Liam cleared his throat and considered what she had said and presumed, surprised but not concerned that she was aware of the reason she was still queen. Consciously remaining with his back against the back of his seat, he measured his words.

“You cannot judge a woman you do not know, Madeline. Rayne is single most capable person I have ever met. She will help to raise two strong and independent children, who love their family and their country. Of this I have no doubt. Appoint the help if you must, but if she decides to refuse it then please respect that” they locked eyes for a moment, both determined but with her resolve shifting.

“When the time comes to choose, Liam, I hope you remember that I tried to help you” and with that she turned and left. Liam stared at the door for a full five minutes before leaning forward and looking down at his work again. He ran a hand along his forehead and then through his hair and frowned. It would be difficult to focus now.

What he said was the right thing, the right decision. When he got back to Rayne, he would ask what she thought, and if she told him he was ridiculous then he would believe her. More than anyone, even himself, he trusted her.

 Walking into Rayne’s suite was like walking into another world. He could see why Liam preferred it. The King’s apartments were tall and dark and impressive, every vestibule emitting than sense of grandeur as if somehow the King or Queen would need a reminder of their own wealth and rank. This suite was slightly smaller, the ceiling was slightly lower, and the whole place was bright and warm. The sun shining through the open curtains cast natural light into the space he could see and only upon conscious thought did Drake realise that the lights weren’t even on. There was so much love here, it was palpable. He stood in the centre of the main room. Earlier he had walked past Liam’s office and seen him still drowning in documents from the past three weeks, even though he wanted to get back to his family Drake knew his friend was under a lot of pressure to serve his country well. A lot of that pressure, they both knew, came from himself. After a few minutes just observing the room Drake heard voices from an adjoining one.

“I'm sorry Mrs Dayton but I do not need another pair of hands. I am managing just fine”

“Lady Rayne, I have been sent by the Queen, I believe she wished to ease the pressure on yourself, as King Liam is unable to attend with his work” the voices came closer and Rayne stepped in to the living area with a large, older woman with a kind face. Rayne did not see Drake at first. She had Leo in her arms and a calm and friendly expression, with barely a reaction to the news of Madeline’s involvement. Unsure whether to announce himself or stay quiet, he stood still and followed their conversation.

“Please thank Queen Madeline for her thoughtfulness Fay, but I assure you it is superfluous. If I require assistance you can be assured that I will ask for it. And dispense with the ‘Lady,’ just Rayne is fine” noticing Drake standing there awkwardly, Rayne looked surprised, then smiled a little wider and winked. Fay Dayton seemed to struggle with herself a bit. She sighed.

“As you wish La - Rayne” she gave her a short bow, “if ever you should need or want assistance, you have my credentials and contact information”

“Thank you, Fay” Rayne gave her a wide smile, holding Leo close, “I wish you all the best” nodding to the door, Fay seemed to take it as a dismissal.

“And you Lady Rayne. Please give my best to Prince Leo and Princess Evelyn. Good day” and with that she turned and left. As soon as the door closed behind her Rayne let out a huge sigh of relief and turned to smile at Drake.

“Hey Drake” she leant her head against Leo and swayed, and he could see how precious he was to her even if that was all he had ever seen.

“Hey Stevens. What was that about?” he gestured to the door. Though he already had a pretty good idea he wanted to hear it from her. She rolled her eyes.

“Oh nothing. Just our benevolent queen trying to force a nanny down my throat” Drake chuckled.

“That went well I see”

“You seem surprised. Expecting more New York waitress than King Liam’s mistress?” though her accent was still detectable, much like his own it had been changed by her time in Cordonia.

“You know that isn't who you are, right?” hooking his thumbs in his pockets he observed Rayne for her response, frowning at her.

“In my heart? Of course not. But externally…” she sighed again and looked down to her son as Drake saw him lift his head and start crying, “shh baby it's okay, mommy is okay” she patted his back and closed her eyes as she swayed and Leo slowly quieted. Drake smiled, even three weeks in, Rayne looked as confident here as she did when answering to the press, calming the citizens, and charming the nobles. He smiled, but in his mind once again was the again unvoiced question of why she wasn't queen, “there we go, it's okay, go back to sleep” she looked up again, “I know that many people see me at face value. Just the mother-”

“Those are people Madeline has poisoned Rayne it-”

“No listen, please. You know as well as I do that it is good practise to try and understand their misconception. I know that I am more than they say, I do Drake” she spoke firmly as he tried to interrupt, “I know what you are thinking” she gave him a knowing look. That was a look she had given them all the night she met them.

“Then why are you resisting?” Rayne sighed again and looked away and Drake knew he had crossed a line. Again.

“Why do I keep having the same conversation with everyone? The only person who has respected my decision from the beginning is Liam. It is my choice Drake” her voice was raised in her frustration and Leo woke up again, “excuse me” she left the room for a moment, presumably to take Leo to the nursery, he had intentionally come whilst the twins would be sleeping, and Rayne might like company. Though he felt bad for bringing it up yet again, Drake was sure that after enough attempts to convince her would eventually succeed. Already she had done so much for this country… he looked up as she came back in, determined, “it's my choice. I chose to be a mother and to that I hold. I will not fall back on expectations because you think it is the best course. You don't decide for me” she met his gaze unflinching for a moment before he nodded.

“You're right” and stubborn, and brave, and strong willed…  and exhausted, “I'm sorry”

“Thank you” she closed her eyes and took a few deep breaths to calm herself, before going over to sit on the arm of one of the lounge chairs, “now, I'm glad you came. I have a question for you” almost immediately he knew what it would be just from her tone.

“I really don't think-”

“Why haven't you asked Olivia out yet?” he stared at her, lost for words, then took her stance.

“Because I choose not to-” no… that will be seen as mocking her… Rayne raised an eyebrow at him, “even if I was interested, there's no way she'd agree” she was coming to the palace in a couple of days, and they had some free time planned. That was all. Rayne rolled her eyes.

“My god Drake grow a pair. She isn't going to agree if you don't actually ask her, and she isn’t going to wait forever” she grinned as he blushed, but he was saved from having to answer her by someone knocking at the door. They both looked to it.

“Expecting anyone?” he asked.

“No. Maybe Liam is back early?” it hurt to hear all of the heart and hope in her voice. Drake knew Liam wouldn't be back any time soon.

“I don't think so, I'll get it” he had a bad feeling about this. There was a knot in his stomach that warned him to be wary. He stood and took a step towards the door, but Rayne put up a hand.

“No Drake. Thanks but I'll get it”

“Stevens I have a bad feeling about this one”

“I know, so do I. I'll be fine” usually he would protest, but the look in her eyes was the same resolve as when he questioned her decision about becoming queen and he nodded, positioning himself so that he would be able to see whoever was there.

Stepping towards the door, Rayne took a deep breath, squared her shoulders, and threw it open.

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[zaffrenotes]

Prank Wars - Part 2 of 2

Book/Setting: Post-Book 3, Future Pairing: Liam x MC (Katrina) Rating: 18+ NS*W (language and sex) Word Count: 2370 Summary: Liam instigates a little prank war with his Queen, but who will have the last laugh? Author’s Note: A little bit of fluff from @i-choose-liam writing prompt list #16 *All main characters belong to Pixelberry*

Tagged: @brightpinkpeppercorn​

Read Part 1 HERE!

A few days later, Katrina was at her wit’s end with her prank war against Liam. They’d moved on from stealing and hiding clothes to harmless – but equally annoying – juvenile pranks. With Hana’s help, she changed the default language on Liam’s personal cell phone to Mandarin and set the notifications to full volume. She made sure to do this when he cleared a morning for a training/sparring session with Drake, and called him repeatedly. Maxwell inadvertently assisted in the prank by sending Liam multiple texts; Drake told her later that Liam nearly threw his phone at a wall out of frustration.

Liam rotated Katrina’s monitor so everything was upside down, and taped the underside of her mouse so she couldn’t do anything on her desktop. Nicola was able to fix the monitor issue, but she and Katrina were embarrassed when they had to call someone from IT about the defective mouse. The IT guy found Liam’s ‘love note’ when he turned the mouse over.

Her retaliation was to fill their showerhead with flour, knowing he was usually the first one up. She woke to a steady stream of expletives coming from the bathroom that Liam only used when they were in the throes of passion. “TRINA?! This is getting out of hand! I’m covered in paste now!”

She walked into the bathroom as Liam stood in the shower with his face covered in flour, the rest of it sticking to him as the water ran down his body. She tried not to bite her lip as she stared at his naked form, opting instead to hold her hands steady as she snapped a photo of his adorably exasperated face. “Do you have any idea how long it took to fix my monitor settings yesterday? Or to figure out that you’d stuck a piece of TAPE to my mouse to keep it from working? Serves you right.”

“You’re asking for it,” Liam threatened, though he smiled at her.

Katrina put her phone down on the counter and walked over to him, shutting off the water. “Here, unscrew the head,” she said. Liam did as instructed. She separated the pieces, rinsed off the remnants of the flour in the sink, and handed it back to Liam, who attached it back to the pipe. “Forgive me long enough to join you for an actual shower and clean up?” She pulled off her tank top and sleep shorts.

Liam smirked at her as he turned the water on again, rubbing his face as the water sprayed down, washing the flour off his face. She stood behind him and pressed her body against his, kissing his back, and wrapped her hands around his waist, reaching for his half-hard member. Liam groaned at her touch and turned around. He lifted her up as she wrapped her legs around his waist and yelped as he pressed her against one of the shower walls.

“Let’s get you dirty before cleaning you up,” he growled, rubbing his stubble across her neck. “But for the record, this doesn’t mean it’s over, love.” He braced himself against the wall with one hand and kissed her hard as he sheathed himself between her legs.

Katrina gasped as he penetrated the slick folds of her skin while his tongue parted her mouth in a searing kiss. She closed her eyes as he thrust himself into her over and over again. “Du…ly…no…ted…” she panted, pulling the hair at the back of his head.

~

The last straw for Katrina was when she thought Liam cut her hair. They’d been getting ready for a formal but unofficial dinner with some nobles, and her hair was down in loose curls while she applied eyeshadow at her vanity. She heard the unmistakable sound of scissors snipping as Liam stood behind her, and she whipped around to see him holding a handful of hair.

“Liam! What the FUCK?!” she cried out, feeling the back of her head for her missing locks. Only…nothing was missing. She ran her hands through her hair, waiting to feel her hands empty as she looked in the mirror, her heart racing…but her hair looked fine.

Liam was beside himself with laughter, holding a fistful of hair in his hand. “It’s fake, sweetheart, it’s just from a wig,” he said, hands on knees, as he laughed harder. “You should have seen your face!”

She swatted at his thigh, a little harder than intended. “That’s not funny, Liam!” She huffed and turned away from him, her heart still racing, and she tried to ignore his laughter. She bit the inside of her cheek to keep herself from smiling; truthfully it was a damn good prank, and hearing his heartfelt laugh was one of her favorite sounds. Even if hearing it had been at her expense.

Liam took a few breaths to stop laughing, putting the scissors and fake hair on the corner of the bed. He stepped behind her and tenderly placed his hands on her shoulders, dipping down to kiss her on the cheek. “I’m sorry, my love, it was just meant as a joke. You know I’d never actually do something that callous to you. I love your long locks….especially when I can pull on your hair when I’m behind you.” He nipped at her earlobe and kissed the sensitive spot on her neck, making her gasp.

“You’re such…a jerk…” she whispered. She glanced at the clock as his hands roved the front of her dress. “We can be a little late…”

~

Later at dinner, Katrina walked over to Drake while Liam was busy talking to several noblemen about expanding a grey area on their respective property lines. “Drake, I need a favor, “ she said, quietly.

“What’s up?”

“I need to get Liam back for pranking me earlier tonight.”

“Oh my GOD, you two are still at that?” Drake shook his head. “He told me you stole all his underwear the other day when we all had lunch. I did not need that mental image, let me tell you.” He took a sip from the glass of whiskey in his hand. “What did he do to you this time?”

“He pretended to cut my hair while we were getting ready. Bought extensions that looked like my hair.”

Drake chuckled, earning an elbow to the ribs from Katrina. “Come on, that was a pretty good one on his part,” he said, smiling. He was silent for a moment, scanning his memory for something useful. “Are you asking me to help with retaliation, or do you want him to surrender?”

“Drake, I need your help to win this. Please! It’s been fun, but I’m not sure how much longer I can keep this up. We’ve got too many things going on for me to think of ways to trip him up without outright embarrassing him.”

Drake nodded. “He hates roaches. Big ones.”

“What?”

“We went to an insect zoo when we were…ten? Twelve?” Drake explained. “Some of the exhibits were live, like the butterfly room. All these butterflies just sorta swarmed him to rest, on his hands, shoulders, on top of his head. You’d swear he was like a Disney princess or something,” he laughed, recalling the memory. “But we got to this exhibit with those Madagascar hissing cockroaches, and Rhinoceros roaches, and he practically noped outta the building.”

Katrina scrunched up her face in disgust. “Ugh, I can imagine.”

“They weren’t that bad, those two roaches are massive, but they don’t fly. It took some coaxing to get him to speed walk to the other side of the room to keep up with the tour group. Though if you decide to use this information, go with something fake. I don’t think you want actual roaches wandering around the palace.” He winked at Katrina.

“Noted,” she replied, casting a mischievous smirk in Liam’s direction. “If you’ll excuse me, I have to see a man about a dog,” she said, walking out of the formal dining room. Drake raised his glass at her, grinning as he shook his head. She slipped out and found Nicola in a nearby room, typing away into her phone.

“Your Majesty,” Nicola said, standing up. “What can I help you with?”

“I’m wondering if you can help with a little mission,” Katrina replied. She spoke with Nicola in a low, hushed voice, even though they were the only ones in the room, and Nicola stifled a laugh. “I’m entrusting you personally with this mission, and this secret,” she said, fighting the grin that wanted to flash across her own face. “For all I know, Drake is the only other person that knows this information about our sovereign king.”

Nicola’s eyes lit up with delight, though she quickly composed herself. “You can trust me, ma’am, I’ll say nothing. Do you need this…item…tonight?”

“Preferably, yes. If not, as soon as possible.”

“If you don’t need anything else ma’am, I’ll see what I can find right now.”

“Thank you Nic. And remember, tell no one,” Katrina warned. Nicola nodded, and Katrina went back to the dining room, rejoining the noblemen and ladies, ushering them into a drawing room for after dinner drinks.

Before the night was over, Nicola had returned, successful in her mission. She gave Katrina a small parcel, and Katrina recoiled when she saw the replica roach inside. “Oh my god, it looks so real,” she said, rolling the bag down, and stuffed it into her clutch. “Excellent work, Nic.”

“If that’ll be all, ma’am, I’ll be off,” Nicola said. “Enjoy your day off, and do let me know how this all ends up,” she added, grinning wide. She curtsied and left the room.

Katrina composed herself and returned to the drawing room, where only a handful of guests remained. She and Liam entertained every one of them, feeling exhausted when the last guest finally left the palace. They walked back to their apartment as quickly as their tired feet would allow. Once in the bedroom, Katrina slipped out of her dress, tossing it on a chair as she slipped out of her heels. She wandered into the bathroom in just her underwear and washed the makeup off her face, before applying her specific routine of serums and creams to her face.

She unhooked her bra and tossed it at the basket of dirty clothes in her closet, slipping into one of Liam’s worn-in shirts as her nightgown, and climbed into bed next to her husband. As soon as she joined him, he rolled over and kissed her, pinning her to the mattress as he attacked her lips with one heated kiss after the other.

“I’ve been waiting to be alone with you all night,” he breathed into her ear, sending a pleasant tingling sensation straight to her core.

“And what were you planning to do with me once you had me to yourself?” she crooned.

“Let me show you, my queen,” he replied, his voice low and full of desire.

~

Katrina quietly crept out of bed after several rigorous rounds of lovemaking with Liam. He was completely passed out, and she grabbed the clutch she’d left on her vanity and took it into the bathroom. She tried to make as little noise as possible retrieving the parcel in her clutch, gingerly removing the lifelike replica of the massive roach that Nicola had obtained. She shuddered as she slipped it into the breast pocket of Liam’s shirt and folded the bag back up to hide in her clutch. She flushed the toilet for good measure and washed her hands before returning to the bedroom.

Liam was still asleep. She tiptoed across the room to his side of the bed and placed the roach on top of his phone. Then she made her way back to her side of the bed, trying not to disturb him as she got back under the covers. It was only when she pulled the covers up to her chest that Liam stirred, and he rolled over to spoon her.

Katrina woke with a start the next morning, hearing a high-pitched shriek. She fell out of the bed on her side with a hard thud, and looked up, confused. Liam was on the edge of the bed, his eyes wide with fright.

“Oh my god, Trina, I’m sorry! We have to get out of here!” He looked at her apologetically from the edge of the mattress.

“What’s happening?”

“Roach! Monstrous roach! On my nightstand!” Below him, Katrina shook with laughter as she bit her tongue. “What the—why are you laughing? This isn’t funny! There’s a roach over there the size of a boat!”

Katrina clutched her stomach as she laughed. Liam looked at her with confusion, then irritation, as he realized what was happening. “It’s…fake…” she choked out, between laughs. “It’s just a toy.” Tears fell from the corners of her sleepy eyes, and her stomach hurt from laughing so hard.

Liam grabbed a book from Katrina’s nightstand and moved across the bed, noticing that the offensive creature hadn’t stirred at all. He pushed it with the book until it fell to the floor. He rolled back to look at Katrina, who was convulsing with laughter so hard that she wasn’t making a sound. “That’s not funny. Who told you I hated those vile things?”

He pulled her back into bed as she took deep breaths and wiped the tears from her eyes. “Drake,” she muttered, suppressing her laughter to short bursts of giggles. Liam scowled next to her. “Do you surrender to our prank war?”

“I yield to you, my queen,” he replied, wrapping his arms around her waist. She straddled him in the bed, running her hands through his tousled hair. “But this marks the start of a new war, on Drake…after I punish you for scaring me,” he said, as his hands started unbuttoning her shirt.

Katrina burst into another fit of giggles despite her sudden arousal. “You screamed like a little girl!”  

Liam smirked as he slipped the shirt off her shoulders and rolled to flip her on her back. She let out a squeal of delight. “And now I’m going to make you scream my name,” he growled.

[choicesteamdrake]

I’M ENGAGED!!!!!!!!!!!

live footage of me after Drake proposed:

[sazanes]

I would like to thank you for this amazing week where fans of The Royal Romance could show their love for this game. Thank you @decisso  @boneandfur  for this week !!! A hug for everyone !!! 

[blackcatkita]

The Consequence of Secrets- Chapter 22

The Fear of the Unknown

Liam x Jennifer(MC)

This is it everyone, we finally find out what is wrong with Queen Jennifer... This chapter, like those before it may be difficult for some people to read and I urge you to read the warning below. I don’t think I can say anyone will “enjoy” this chapter per se, but if it moves you, please like comment or reblog! I appreciate every single note! Tag list is at the end, if you would like to be added or removed you need only ask. Angsty af moodboard made by @darley1101 Word Count-3931

For all other works, please see my MASTERLIST.

WARNING- This chapter contains serious medical conditions, vivid descriptions of fear, and dialog of possible pregnancy loss and death.

“We don’t know…”

It had been hours since they first heard those words, long before the moonless night painted the sky black and a hush fell over the hospital. In that moment, he wasn’t the King hindered by propriety. He was a husband and a father, a man angry and terrified that the doctors were unable to provide a diagnosis. “What do you mean you don’t know?! This is your Queen!” He had bellowed, forgetting himself in his rage. It was Jennifer that brought him back, gently wrapping her small hand around his much larger fist, telling him to calm down and that they were doing the best they could. It was incredible. There was a woman who was suffering unimaginable pain, riddled with fear not just for herself but for the child she was carrying as well… and she was comforting him, as she so often did.  

“We don’t know…”

Seemingly endless ultrasounds had been taken, each one focusing on a different area of her abdomen and carrying with it the hope that this one would provide answers, bringing with it a fresh wave of heartache when it didn’t. Helpless, Liam could only watch as she became sicker, weaker, more tired, and her pain level increased. Though it wasn’t enough, he did whatever he could to comfort her; rubbing her back when the pain flared, feeding her ice chips when her throat was dry, holding her hand through every test, and promising they were going to figure it out, she was going to be okay, she just had to stay strong for a little while longer. 

“We don’t know…”

As the hours went by, he began to fear he wouldn’t be able to keep that promise, but it wasn’t until the fourth ultrasound came back with nothing, and he overheard the doctors quietly discussing the possibility of cancer that he nearly broke down and had to excuse himself, calling Drake of all people because he didn’t know what else to do. For a moment, he was back on the beach, listening to his father tell him he was dying, and to hear that word spoken about Jennifer… it was too much to bear.  

Now, sitting in the chair beside her bed, Liam watches his beloved, her face relaxed in merciful slumber after finally succumbing to sheer fatigue and the increased dose of morphine necessary to dull her worsening pain. The nighttime lighting mounted to the wall casts shadows in the hollows of her cheeks and eyes, stark against her pallid skin and giving her an almost skeletal appearance. When she told him she didn’t want to die, that she was scared, he did his best to assuage her fears… but he would be lying if he said he hadn’t begun to share them. Not even his father looked this close to death as he took his final breath, and he can’t help but wonder how much more she could take.

Feeling his throat tighten, he leans forward, pinching the bridge of his nose against the stinging in his eyes. He couldn’t allow fear to take over, couldn’t allow his anguish to consume him. Not yet. As long as he could hear the steady sounds of her breathing and their child’s muffled heartbeat through the monitor strapped to her belly, there was still hope and he could remain strong. He had to. For her, and the baby.

Taking a deep, steadying breath, he opens his eyes, studying her again. Despite the sickness marring her features, she’s still the most beautiful sight he’s ever seen, and he’s unable to stop himself from reaching out, cupping her cheek in his palm. “We were dancing…” She sighs, a ghost of a smile touching her lips before she opens her eyes, taking a few moments to focus on him. “Do you remember that? When we danced at the Masquerade Ball?” She asks quietly, her voice weak.

“Of course I remember. The moment I first saw you in Cordonia, I feared I was dreaming.” He smiles softly, picturing her standing before him in her angel costume, the image so clear it was as if it happened yesterday.

“I loved you… even then I loved you.” Her eyelids slowly close, and a tear spills over, wetting his thumb as he traces it along the dark purple shadow beneath her eye. Her skin feels warm against his hand… too warm, and a fresh tinge of worry twists his stomach.

“We have a lifetime of dances together still ahead of us My Love.” He tells her, unsure if he’s saying it to assuage her fears or his own.

Her eyes flutter open briefly, only to close again. “I’m so tired Liam…”

“I know Baby…” His breath hitches, and he takes a moment to compose himself, brushing a lock of hair from her cheek and tucking it behind her ear. “Go ahead and rest. I’ll be right here.”

The corners of her mouth twitch in the briefest of smiles and painfully slowly, she reaches for his hand as though it took every ounce of effort she had left to lift her arm. Squeezing his eyes shut to stop his beginning tears, he presses a kiss to her hand, feeling his lips tremble against her skin as he holds it in place. This isn’t right… none of it was. If only his father had warned him that it could be agonizing to be a devoted husband and a King… to be the most powerful man in the country and yet be utterly powerless to help the woman who was everything to him. Perhaps his father felt the same anguish as he watched Liam’s mother die a slow and painful death and that was a factor in his support of Madeleine. His father knew how much he loved Jennifer, and he wouldn’t have wanted his son to feel that pain, to love someone so completely that he would be willing to lose everything to save her. He would lay down his very life for her, would take her pain for the rest of his days if it meant she didn’t have to bear it for another moment.

Hearing the door open, he glances up to find Lucy approaching, still on duty as Jennifer’s nurse. “How is she doing?” She asks quietly.

Liam clears his throat, attempting to steady his voice. “She’s in and out but when she is awake she’s very weak, and she seems extremely warm to me.”

“She’s had a trying day.” Lucy replies, giving him an understanding look before taking the blood pressure cuff from it’s hook on the wall.

Trying to gently wake her, Liam rubs his palm against the top of Jennifer’s hand. “Love… Lucy is here to take your vitals.” Groaning with her eyes still closed, she rolls over onto her back and Liam stands, getting out of the way so the nurse can do her work. After watching Lucy take Jennifer’s vital every thirty minutes like clockwork, he knew the routine inside and out.

The thermometer beeps and Liam catches a brief look of concern flash in Lucy’s eyes as she looks down at it before excusing herself and walking quickly from the room. Moments later, she reappears and rushes back to Jennifer’s side, taking yet another tube of blood. “Her Majesty has developed a fever, and Dr Brooks wants another set of labs done to see if anything has changed. The results will only take a few minutes, and Dr Brooks will come speak to you as soon as he has them.” Unable to fully process what just transpired, Liam nods in understanding and Lucy dashes back out of the room.

“What’s going on?”

He can hear the weariness in Jennifer’s voice and he turns to her, taking in the line of sweat that has formed at her hairline before sitting on the edge of the bed. “You have a fever and they took more blood to see why.”

“It’s hot in here, and I don’t feel good.” She whines, her pouting lower lip trembling.

“I know Baby.” Frowning, he presses a kiss to her forehead, hot and clammy against his lips before picking up the cup of half melted ice chips from the counter next to her bed. “Here, this will help you cool off a bit.” Using the spoon he left in the cup, he scoops up a few chips as she lifts her head slightly, parting her lips to allow him to feed her the ice. Breathing out a sigh of relief, she relaxes, giving him an affectionate look as her head sinks into the pillow. “Good?” She nods, opening her mouth for him to feed her more. “The baby’s heartrate is still okay… it hasn’t gotten higher.”

“I know. I can hear it.” She struggles to stay awake, each blink taking longer than the last and just as Liam thinks she’s drifted off to sleep, they open again. “Liam.”  She swallows hard, gazing up at him pleadingly. “If it comes to me or the baby, promise me you’ll…”

“Don’t.” Squeezing his eyes shut against the look in hers, he shakes his head. “Don’t ask me to choose Jennifer.”

He feels her fingers graze his cheek before she presses her thumb into the furrow between his brows, and he draws in a shaky breath, relaxing under her touch. She always did that, when she was telling him not to take things so seriously, or anytime he was upset or stressed, and she was worried about him. It worked without fail, reminding him that he wasn’t alone in whatever issue he was facing. “I’m afraid you may have to… my love.”

Taking her hand from his face, he stands, turning away from the name he used for her. She speaks his name softly, her voice dripping with emotion, imploring him to face her and make the promise that he would save their child’s life over hers. Doing so would be the compassionate thing to do, to bring her comfort and ease her mind that no matter what happened to her in the coming hours, their child would have a chance at life. Perhaps if he were the husband she believed him to be, if he were a stronger man, he could turn around and make that vow… but it’s a promise he knows he wouldn’t keep, and he won’t lie to her. His decision would weigh on him for the rest of his life, potentially destroying his marriage to the woman he was desperately holding onto, but he would choose her. In a heartbeat he would choose her. It wasn’t that he didn’t love his unborn child, he did with all his heart, and with every pregnancy milestone that passed, he felt more and more like the father he became when he saw those two little lines on the pregnancy test. But Jennifer meant everything to him, she was his world, and he couldn’t bear a life without her by his side.

“I know it’s not an easy choice for you to make Liam…” She continues behind him as he cravenly remains facing the other direction, his hands balled into fists at his sides. He doesn’t know what’s worse, not being able to give his wife the comfort she so desperately needed or being such a coward that he couldn’t face looking at her as he told her the truth. “…but I also know what a good man you are and if it should get to that point… you’ll make the right decision.”

“Jennifer…” Sighing heavily, he rakes his fingers through his hair before turning around to see Dr Brooks return with urgency. “Have you found something Doctor?” He asks, grateful for the interruption.

“I have.” Dr Brooks replies before dropping his gaze to speak to Jennifer directly. “Since your last set of labs, your white blood cell count has become extremely elevated, indicating a significant infection, and we must perform an exploratory laparoscopy posthaste to find the source.”

Exhaling slowly through his nose, Liam runs his hand across his lips, pinching his chin as he considers the doctor’s words. There was no doubt that they needed answers, and a first hand look would certainly provide them, but he did not relish the idea of her undergoing surgery while she was pregnant with their child. “Would there be any benefit in trying to find the source of the infection through other diagnostic means first?” Liam asks, watching Jennifer’s brows draw slowly together as she stares blankly between him and the doctor.

“Unfortunately we no longer have the luxury of time Your Majesty, and there are no other diagnostic means to try. Because Queen Jennifer is pregnant, our diagnostic imaging options are quite limited, and the laparoscope will allow me to see what can’t be seen on ultrasound. When I have a better understanding of what’s going on, I can determine what steps need to be taken, but I’m afraid this is the only way I can do that.”

For several seconds, Jennifer continues to stare at the doctor before turning her confused gaze to Liam. “I don’t understand… What is he talking about Liam?”

“You have an infection My Love, and Dr Brooks is going to take you into surgery to find where it is.” He explains, stepping forward to rest his hand on her shoulder.

“I don’t want to have surgery.” Her chin puckers, and her eyes flit to her abdomen before meeting his again. “What if he cuts the baby?”

“Surgery is performed successfully on pregnant women every day Your Majesty.” Dr Brooks assures her. “We have the best anesthesiologist on board and Dr Colle will be present the entire time monitoring the health of the baby.”

“But…” She argues.

“You don’t have a choice Jennifer. They have to do this to fix you.” Giving her shoulder a light squeeze, Liam catches Dr Brooks’ eye. “Give us a moment please.” The doctor bows, taking his leave as Liam sits halfway on the edge of the bed, his thigh pressed against Jennifer’s side with his other foot anchored to the floor. She watches him, wide red-rimmed eyes swimming with tears and her trembling lip tucked between her teeth. Understandably, she’s scared. He is too, and he wants nothing more than to wrap her in his arms and tell her she doesn’t have to go, they will try something else... But he knew in his heart the doctor was right, they were running out of time. Forcing himself to ignore the gripping pain in his chest, he reaches out to cup her chin in his palm, tugging her lip free with his thumb. “Don’t be afraid My Love, everything’s going to be fine. The surgery will be over before you know it and I’ll be right here waiting for you when you get back. You just have to be strong for a little while longer… can you do that for me?”

Jennifer nods rapidly, sniffling with her lip back between her teeth, “Okay…” She whispers in a squeaky voice, her breath catching as she attempts to reach out for him, too weak to raise her arms more than a few inches.

Slipping his arm beneath her shoulders, he lifts her into an embrace and she burrows her face in his neck, trembling as she grasps the fabric of his shirt tightly in her hands. “You’re the bravest person I know Jennifer, you can do this.” He assures her, rubbing her back until she stops shaking and her breath evens out. From the direction of the open door, he hears Lucy softly clear her throat and he knows it’s time for her to go. “That’s our cue…” He whispers, trying to control the emotion in his voice as he pulls back, pressing a lingering kiss to her lips before gently lowering her back down.

“They are ready for you, Your Majesty.” Lucy smiles comfortingly as she begins unwrapping the bandage around Jennifer’s stomach that holds the fetal heart monitor in place, while a male nurse crouches down at the foot of the bed, presumably unlocking the wheels.

Reluctantly, Liam begins to stand, but is stopped short by Jennifer, gripping his arm as she cries out his name in a panicked voice. Placing his hands on either side of her to support his weight, he leans down, resting his forehead against hers. “Be brave.” He whispers against her lips. “I love you, and I’ll see you soon.”

“I love you too…” She cries, her eyelashes wet from her tears. “I love you so much.”

Her hold on his arm relaxes as he kisses her again, first on the lips then her forehead before he stands, following beside the bed with her hand in his until the two nurses wheel her out of the room. Following them into the hall, he watches until they’ve turned the corner and she’s out of sight before turning to Bastien, standing at his post outside the door. “I trust the surgical area was secured?”

“Of course, Your Majesty.” Bastien affirms with a nod. “Only medical staff is allowed in the operating room, but Mara and Patrick will be standing guard outside.” Bastien clears his throat, looking at Liam as though he’s mulling something over in his mind. “Sir, may I… may I trouble you for an update on Her Majesty’s condition?”

“I’m afraid we still don’t know, but I’m hopeful the surgery will provide some much needed answers. I must thank you for getting her here Bastien, without you and Lord Maxwell, I don’t know what might have happened.”

“There is no need to thank me Sir.” Bastien holds up his hand, shaking his head. “Queen Jennifer has become very dear to me, as are you. I will be praying for your family.”

“Thank you, Bastien. We are very grateful for your friendship.” Liam assures him, forcing a smile that surely looks as pitiful as it feels. “Now, if you’ll excuse me.” Bastien nods, his steel grey eyes already sweeping the hallway.

Closing the door behind him, Liam’s gaze locks on the empty space made by his wife’s absence and he feels a tightening in his chest, like a fist squeezing his heart. Every moment of sadness, fear, and frustration he’s pushed down since learning of Jennifer’s distress adds to the crushing wave of emotion, threatening to consume him as he presses his fist firmly against his lips to stop himself from crying out. His vision blurs and he staggers across the room, barely making it to the couch before his knees buckle and he collapses onto the seat. Silent tears flood his cheeks as he leans forward, trying to control his breathing as he holds his head in his hands. Please God, make them find what’s wrong. Don’t take her from me. She’s all I have. The only thing that matters. She’s my angel, a beacon of light in a world that’s all too often dark. I love her more than life itself and I can’t bear to lose her. Please save her God… please save my wife. I’m begging you to save her.

Bastien’s deep voice, muffled by the closed door reaches Liam’s ears, startling him out of his silent prayer. “What the hell are you doing here? Have you lost your damn fool mind?” There is no mistaking the shock and anger behind his words and Liam knows exactly who he’s talking to... Drake. “He doesn’t want to see you Drake, especially at a time like this.”

“He’s the one who called me!”

Grabbing a few tissues from the box on the table in front of him, Liam wipes the tears from his face as the men in the hallway continue their conversation in voices too low to make out more than a few heated words. “Let him in Bastien.” Liam calls out. Drake enters immediately, taking tentative steps into the room before stopping several feet away, averting his eyes as he slips his hands into the front pockets of his jeans. “Thank you for coming.” Liam mutters, dropping his gaze to the floor. There was so much that needed to be said, so much to atone for, but he wasn’t capable of doing so at the moment. Not when his entire being was wracked with worry for Jennifer and the baby. He could barely form a coherent thought, let alone have an uncomfortable conversation that was long overdue.  

“Yeah man… of course I would come.” Drake pauses, scuffing his brown leather boot on the floor. “Thanks for calling me… you didn’t have to do that.”

“She would have wanted you here.” And I needed my brother… The thought surprises him. He had long since let go of the anger he held over what Drake had done but the hurt was still present, and he doesn’t know when he started to think of Drake as his brother again… or if he ever truly stopped.

Time passes in awkward silence, Drake’s pacing footfalls the only sound as Liam remains seated, pitched forward with his forehead resting in his palm and his eyes closed, feeling the raw burn of acid in the back of his throat from the thoughts running through his mind, each one worse than the last. They were only supposed to be looking… Why is it taking so long?  Lifting his head to check the time on the inscribed watch Jennifer had given him, Liam sees Dr Brooks turn into the room. His pulse quickens as he leaps to his feet, ignoring the sharp pain in his shin from its impact with the table as he assaults the man with questions. “What is it Doctor? How is my wife? Is she going to be alright?”

“Her Majesty is still in surgery with Dr Colle.” Dr Brooks’ eyes shift to Drake and he forcibly clears his throat.

Taking in the doctor’s grave expression, Liam draws in a slow breath, squaring his shoulders to steel himself against the blow that he knew was coming as his father’s words echo in his mind. Focus Liam, only you are in control of your emotions. “You may speak freely in front of Mr. Walker.”

“Very well. King Liam, under normal circumstances I wouldn’t be here, but being who you are, and who we are performing surgery on, I felt it prudent to give you an update myself.” Dr Brooks pauses, reaching up to adjust his wire rimmed glasses and Liam waves his hand, urging him to continue. “Her Majesty has peritonitis, caused by a perforated appendix. Peritonitis is an inflammation of the peritoneum, the tissue that lines the inner wall of the abdomen and covers most of the abdominal organs. If not treated properly, it can rapidly spread into the bloodstream and she could become septic. To prevent that from happening, I need to go back in there, remove any infected or damaged tissue and essentially clean the inside of her abdomen.”

Liam’s heart thunders in his chest, so hard he can hear it in his ears and he feels a coldness spread across his cheeks and around the back of his neck before it trails down his spine, almost making him shiver. “And what about my child? Has the baby been affected?” He asks, swallowing hard against the lump that has formed in his throat.

“The baby did well in the first stage of surgery but at this point it’s unclear how extensive the tissue damage is and what organs may be involved. Dr Colle and I will do what we can to save the pregnancy, but please understand, our priority is the Queen’s health.”

“I understand. Thank you Dr Brooks.”

_____________

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[blackcatkita]

The Stroke of Midnight

Liam x Jennifer (MC)

Book- The Royal Romance. Word Count- 2326

This one-shot serves many purposes. For one, it is the fluff they deserve and an apology to them (and to you) for what I’ve put them through. I’m combining quite a few requests in this... from @kinda-iconic December challenge list, Day 10- Conflict, requested by @annekebbphotography, Day 13- Choice and Day 30 Midnight Kiss, both anonymous and also some dialogue prompts requested by @lodberg. Special shoutout to the Nonny that sent this title in! I wish I knew who you were so I could thank you properly! Tag list is at the end, if you would like to be added/moved/removed from any of the series I write for, you need only ask. My masterlist can be found in my bio because I don’t know if Tumblr is still being a butt. I hope you enjoy reading this floof fest as much as I enjoyed writing it and if you do, please like, comment or reblog. I appreciate every single note!

 “Jen… Jen…” A voice whispered, breaking through Jennifer’s slumber. Unconsciously, she rolled onto her side and shifted closer to the middle of the bed, thinking Liam was finally climbing in beside her as she drifted back to sleep. “Jen… wake up, I have a question.” The voice continued, tapping her on the shoulder. That’s not Liam. Liam never called her Jen. She rolled back over toward the sound of the voice and slowly opened her eyes to see Maxwell sitting on the edge of the bed. He smiled down at her, half of his face illuminated by the light streaming from downstairs into the darkened bedroom. “Hi. Do you have a sewing kit?”

Jennifer blinked slowly, her sleep addled brain not fully processing Maxwell’s words. “What?”

“Do you have a sewing kit?” Maxwell repeated. “Liam said he thought you had one, but he doesn’t know where it is. I need a needle.”

“Check the front closet.” Jennifer yawned, drawing the blanket over her face as she closed her eyes and snuggled into the mattress. There was a vague feeling of being patted on the head and Maxwell’s faraway voice telling her to go back to sleep as she dozed off again.

Her eyes flew open, finally registering what Maxwell said and she reached for her phone, charging on the nightstand to check the time. Almost midnight… Liam had gone ‘out’ with his two best friends for a night of billiards and drinking in the game room, so what would Maxwell need a needle for? More importantly, why did they bring the party to the apartment when there was a toddler and a nine month old sleeping upstairs?

Getting out of bed, Jennifer slipped her white dressing gown on over the silk chemise she wore to bed, the fitted fabric already slightly snug from the tiny bump of her growing belly. She tied the gown shut and left the bedroom, stopping to peek in the kid’s rooms to make sure they hadn’t been woken up before heading downstairs. Half-way down she glanced over into the living room, just in time to see Maxwell bring a sewing needle to Liam’s earlobe. “Don’t even think about it!” She shouted, scurrying down the remaining steps to the two men on the couch as Maxwell let out a yelp and jumped back.

“Ooh… busted.” Drake goaded from where he stood at the kitchen island, refilling his glass of whiskey.

“Hello my angel.” Liam smiled adoringly up at her. “Look at her my friends. Didn’t I say she looked like a beautiful angel in her new dressing gown?”

“You might’ve mentioned it two or five times.” Drake grumbled, joining them in the living room and taking a seat in the grey club chair to Liam and Maxwell’s left. “Before you start yelling, I want it known that I had no part in this.”

“You said he wouldn’t dare…” Maxwell argued. “Which everyone knows means ‘I triple dog dare you to do it’.”

Drake raised an eyebrow at Maxwell, huffing out a chuckle. “No, it means if he’s smart he won’t do it.”

“That’s not what you…” Maxwell began.

“Enough!” Jennifer hissed. Pausing, she placed her hand on her hip and squeezed her eyes shut, taking a deep breath and letting it out slowly before looking at them again. “Explain to me how three grown men came to the conclusion that driving a sewing needle through the King’s earlobe was a responsible thing to do! And in the middle of the night too! I swear to all that is holy, if any of you wake the kids up you are all dead men.”

“I just said I had no part in it. I can’t help it if they didn’t listen.” Drake took a sip of his whiskey, avoiding her gaze as he mumbled against the glass. “You’re the one who’s gonna wake up your kids…”

Raising her eyebrows, Jennifer leaned forward, pivoting her head slightly to bring her ear closer to Drake. “What was that?” Drake grumbled a response she couldn’t hear as Liam stood, stepping around the coffee table to reach out for her as he opened his mouth to speak. “And you.” She pointed at her husband, cutting off his words and putting a stop to his embrace. “You know damn well we have to leave for Valtoria in five hours to open the Candyland festival, which means I have to get up in three hours to get myself and the kids ready. It’s bad enough you come traipsing in here in the middle of the night, lights blazing with them sleeping upstairs, but then you have to wake up your pregnant wife for this nonsense.” Biting his lip, Liam tucked his chin to his chest, looking up at her through his lashes as he rubbed the back of his neck. “Piercing your ear of all things.” She continued. “What were you thinking? What would the press say when they saw you? What would you tell your children when they asked, Daddy why do you look like a pirate?”

“Well…” Liam grimaced. “I hadn’t planned on wearing a gold hoop.”

“Or a skull and crossbones!” Maxwell chimed in.

Lips pressed together, Jennifer narrowed her eyes at Liam’s horrible attempt to diminish the smile that was twitching on his lips as Drake and Maxwell barely contained their laughter. They might appreciate his joke, but she certainly didn’t. “You’re not funny.” She crossed her arms, tilting her head to the side. “Did you even sterilize the needle? Or were you hoping to add infection to the mix?”

“Man…” Maxwell muttered from the couch. “you’re cranky when you’re pregnant.”

Her muscles stiffened and she curled her fingers into fists, her manicured nails, longer than usual from the pre-natal vitamins she was taking digging into her palm. I’ll show you cranky, she thought as Liam quickly stepped forward, protectively placing his hand on her stomach while glaring at Maxwell. He didn’t think it was so funny now... “Watch yourself Lord Beaumont. That is my wife you are speaking to.” She placed her hand over his, thankful for the support and also for stopping her from ripping Maxwell’s face off.

Drake whistled, raising his eyebrows with his wide eyes watching Jennifer. “Bad choice of words Maxwell. Never, ever, bring up cranky and pregnant. Believe me, I learned that lesson the hard way. On that note…” Drake slapped his palms against his thighs and stood from his chair. “When Liam busts out the titles, it’s time to go. See you all in five hours.” He mocked, waving his hands before looking down at Maxwell and jerking his thumb towards the door. “Let’s go. It’s not safe for you here.”

Maxwell’s eyes darted from Drake to Jennifer and back again. “Good call Buddy. Also, I applaud the use of the jazz hands. It was an excellent choice.” Standing, Maxwell scrunched his nose at Jennifer sheepishly. “I don’t really think you’re cranky Jen. You’re a beautiful ray of sunshine and I’m sorry I almost maimed Liam… but he totally said I could do it!”

“Oh for the love…” Drake grumbled, pushing Maxwell across the room. He opened the door and Maxwell slipped out as Drake turned to the couple, bringing his hand to his forehead in a salute. “Have a good night you two.”

The door shut behind them and Liam stepped to stand in front of Jennifer, pouting adorably as he wrapped his arms around her waist and pulled her close. “Please don’t be mad at me My Love. Maxwell was rather enthusiastic, and my judgement was clouded by drink.”

Encased in his muscled frame, the heat from his body seeped into her skin, settling in her lower abdomen. Her tongue darted out, licking her lips as she looked up at him, willing herself not to lean forward to pull his pouted lower lip between her teeth. “And could…” She croaked, pausing to clear her throat. Damn him and his effect on her without even trying. She was supposed to be mad at him, not melting into a puddle of hormones and lust. “Could Maxwell convince you of anything just because you had a few drinks?”

“I think history proves that is not the case.” Liam chuckled. “To be honest, part of me wanted to see how far he would take it. I fully intended to stop him before he actually poked me.” He shrugged. “Worst case scenario I would have a hole in my ear for a few weeks.”

“Liam…” Jennifer chided with a furrowed brow as Liam pressed his fingers into her lower back, making her moan softly as he gently massaged her aching muscles. “How am I being the appropriate one here?”

“Because you My Queen, are a woman of grace and poise.” He leaned down, tilting his head to place a gentle kiss to her lips. “I want to show you something.” Taking her hand, he ignored her protests that they had a long day ahead of them as he led her up the stairs, across their bedroom and through the French doors that led to their balcony.

The moon was high in the sky, shining brightly and larger than usual, surrounded by countless stars glittering against the cloudless night. “Look at those stars…” Jennifer gaped.  

“Isn’t it beautiful?” Liam stepped up behind her, wrapping his arms around her waist and she leaned against his chest, resting her head in the hollow of his neck as he began to sway back and forth. She heard the grandfather clock chime twelve downstairs as his lips brushed her ear, raising goosebumps across her skin. “I would pull every star from the sky for you if I could.”

Turning to face him, she ran her hands up his arms and across his shoulders, lacing her fingers together at the back of his neck as his hands settled on her waist. “I don’t need the stars Liam. I just need you.”

“You have me Jennifer. Always.” Liam smiled, resting his forehead against hers. “Close your eyes.” She complied, missing the warmth of his arms around her instead of the kiss she expected as he let her go. “Keep them closed.” He whispered. His touch ghosted around her neck, making her shiver as his fingers tickled the fine hairs at the base of her skull. Liam’s hands trailed down her arms and she opened her eyes, looking down to see an incredibly large blue oval sapphire, surrounded by diamonds and dangling from a platinum chain. “In the light, it’s the exact color of your eyes.”

“Liam…” She marveled, momentarily at a loss for words. “It’s breathtaking. This is too much… it must have cost a fortune.”

He tucked his fingers beneath her chin, lifting her face gently to kiss her softly. “Jennifer, you are the first thing on my mind, the last thought before sleep, and my truest love. You are my soulmate, my best friend, my fiercest protector and the mother of my children. You have given me more than I have ever dreamed of and there is nothing I could give you that would ever be ‘too much’.” Looking down, she reached up and held the massive stone in her palm, feeling it’s weight. “I believe the sapphire is just over forty carats and the diamonds total around ten. I hope it’s not too heavy.” Jennifer looked up at him in disbelief and a deep frown creased his brow. “Do you not like it My Love? We can pick something else out if you’d prefer.”

“Are you kidding?! I love it, it’s amazing.” Pouting, she placed her hand against his cheek. “It’s just… it’s still a few weeks ‘til Christmas and some of your gifts aren’t ready yet.”

“You don’t have to get me anything Jennifer, you being my wife is gift enough.” Liam laughed. “But I know you will regardless of what I say and I will adore anything you give me. I intended to wait until Christmas to give this to you, but I picked it up from the jeweler earlier today and I simply couldn’t resist giving it to you now. Don’t worry, there will still be gifts under the tree for you to open.”

“Don’t you dare get me anything else.” She warned, pulling back.

Covering his mouth, Liam faked a deep yawn. “Better get some sleep. We have a long day tomorrow after all.” Smiling, he winked and cupped his palm against her bump for a moment before turning to enter their bedroom.

“Liam! I’m serious!” She called, following him into the room. He ignored her, walking into his closet to remove the day’s clothes. After a stop in the bathroom, she re-entered the bedroom to find Liam, splayed out beneath the covers, snoring softly in an unconvincing act of sleep. “I know you’re faking.” A smile crossed his lips and she reached up to release the clasp on the necklace, placing it on her dressing table before removing her dressing gown, laying the garment on the upholstered bench seat at the foot of the bed. Climbing in beside him, she snuggled against his side, laying her head on his bare chest as he draped his arm across her shoulders. “I don’t want you spending more money on Christmas gifts for me Liam. The necklace is already above and beyond.”

“Love, I’m going to spoil you for the rest of our lives. Surely you won’t begrudge me for that.”

“No, I suppose not.” Jennifer chuckled. “I would be lying if I said I didn’t enjoy it and I really do love the necklace.”

“I’m glad.” Liam’s arm tightened around her and he kissed the top of her head, resting his other hand on her waist. “Now, get some sleep. And make sure to wake me to help with the children.”

She closed her eyes and burrowed her face in his neck, inhaling his scent as she kissed below his ear, making him shiver beneath her. “Hey Liam? I love you.”

“Hey Jennifer? I love you too.”

__________________

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