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camillemontespan · 3 months

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@choices-myworld aww thank you ☺️

the best mistake he never had [drake x Camille au] part six: whiskey and fairylights

Drake went home to his apartment in town. It was small and bare, purely functional. He rented it because it was cheap and it meant he had his own life away from the ranch.

If that life involved drinking nightly at the bar and eating instant noodles in his crappy kitchen.

Drake slumped down on the couch and looked around. God, it was quiet.

Maybe he should get a dog?

Nah, too small a space for a dog

A cat?

Fuck that actually, cats were evil.

He felt empty. That was his overwhelming feeling right now and he didn't like it.

Drake's thoughts fluttered to Camille and Lily.

He hoped Lily was alright in the hospital and was getting some well deserved sleep. He hoped Camille was with her grandma and feeling less angry and more happy instead.

Drake pulled himself up from the couch and went to the crappy kitchen. He opened the cupboard and found a half empty bottle of whiskey.

Fuck it, that'll do.

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

‘I hate him, grandma,’ Camille sniffled.

She was cuddled up against Gisele. The two of them were lying in Gisele's bed, Camille with her head leant gently against her grandmothers shoulder. The TV was on, playing Some Like It Hot.

Gisele gently smoothed her hand across Camille's hair, trying to soothe her.

Camille had come home from the hospital crying. In a fit of sobs, she told Gisele that Lily was being kept overnight and how worried she was about her daughter. How they had never spent a night apart.

And then she told her about Drake.

If Gisele could gather strength and throttle Drake Walker, she would do it.

She always tried her best to keep her opinions about Drake to herself. She didn't want to sway Camille's perspective about anything. Plus, Drake was Bianca's son and Gisele liked Bianca.

But knowing how much he had hurt her granddaughter made Gisele angry inside.

Quite frankly, Gisele thought Drake Walker was a putain d'idiot.

‘I shouldn't have asked him why he rejected me,’ Camille said quietly. ‘That was a mistake.’

Gisele shook her head. ‘Never mistakes, only lessons.’

Camille smiled weakly.

Gisele pressed a soft kiss onto Camille's forehead. ‘You should be with a man who wants you AND Lily,’ she said. ‘Someone who isn't afraid to jump in with both feet.’

Camille kept her eyes fixed on the TV, watching Marilyn Monroe wiggle her hips.

‘I just want Lily to be happy,’ Camille told her. ‘That’s my only priority.’

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

Drunk off whiskey, Drake was thinking.

He lay on his back on the couch staring up at the ceiling which was moving.

He was thinking about Camille and that night. The night that changed everything.

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

F I V E Y E A R S A G O

Camille was drunk from tequila shots.

What had started as a ‘have one drink at the bar’ with Maxwell had turned into cocktails which turned into tequila and now she was insisting on dancing.

Dancing with Drake Walker.

He was her grandma's neighbour. They had attended the same high school -as did everyone in Applewood - and Camille had always had a crush on him.

Drake didn't know that of course.

There was just something about him. Sure, he was handsome in that rugged kind of way. He was tall with broad shoulders and big hands that looked like they could protect you from anything.

His brown eyes were kind eyes.

She liked that he was different to everyone else in Applewood. It was a small town, everyone knew everyone's business. But Drake didn't get involved with that. He always kept to himself, always walking around with an air of mystery about him.

Camille had tried her best to get to know him through the years but he held everyone at arms length. With her in particular .

Most people would have called him rude but to Camille, she thought he was shy.

He was sitting on the bar stool now with Leo sitting next to him. Leo's brother, Liam, was leaning against the bar.

Liam and Leo were laughing at Camille's attempts to get Drake to dance with her.

‘Camille, he isn't going to do it!’ Liam said, his eyes sparkling. ‘Trust me on this.’

Camille pulled on Drake's hands. ‘Come on, Drake! Show me your best moves!’

Drake groaned. ‘No way, Montespan. Dance with Liam.’

Camille pouted. ‘Absolutely not, he'd show me up.’

Liam laughed and winked at Camille. ‘Yeah, our prom queen and king dance didn't go well…’

Camille rolled her eyes good-naturedly and then turned her attention back to Drake.

He eyed her, waiting for her next move.

Drake quite enjoyed a drunk Camille. She was always fun but get her tipsy on tequila and she burned brighter than the universe.

He kept his face neutral, determined not to show her he was enjoying this.

‘Hey, I’ll dance with you, Cammy,’ Leo said, gently pulling Camille into him. Camille leaned back into Leo’s chest, letting him wrap his arms around her.

Drake swallowed, trying his best to push down the jealousy. Surely Leo and Camille weren't a thing? Or had a thing?

Nah, Camille had standards.

‘Any excuse to get your hands on her,’ Liam teased him.

Camille giggled and turned to nip Leo's earlobe with her teeth.

Leo’s eyes widened. ‘Guys, if Camille Montespan is coming onto me, she's fucked.’

He swiftly deposited Camille onto Drake's lap. ‘She’s all yours.’

Camille let out a cheer and threw her arms around him. He could smell her perfume and god, she smelled incredible. ‘Yay, Drake! I'm here, let's dance!’

Drake shook his head, chuckling. ‘Nope. Leo's right, if you're coming onto him, you're fucked.’

‘I came onto Leo?’

The guys exchanged glances. Liam let out a whistle. ‘Get her home, Drake.’

Drake blinked. ‘Uhhh.. why me?’

‘Because she's obsessed with you tonight,’ Liam told him. He clapped Drake on the shoulder. ‘Good luck my friend.’

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

It took thirty minutes to reach Camille's apartment in town.

It should have been a five minute walk.

Camille kept stopping and getting distracted. Normally, this kind of behaviour would have irritated Drake but because it was Camille, he didn't mind.

She dropped her keys on the doormat twice until Drake stepped in to help.

He had never been to her apartment before. Walking inside, he noted it was quite plush.

Camille wasn't rich by any means but she somehow managed to make the place elegant with thick white carpet, beautiful artwork on the walls and pillar candles dotted around randomly.

She kicked off her boots. ‘Want a beer?’ she asked, stumbling through to the kitchen.

Drake followed her. ‘Uhhh sure.’

He watched as she took a beer from the fridge and handed it to him. Their fingers brushed and Drake swore he felt electricity.

Camille pulled open a drawer and took out a box of ibuprofen and poured herself a glass of water. She winked at Drake. ‘See, I'm not a total liability.’

She swallowed the pill and downed the water. Still stumbling, she took Drake by the hand and led him through to the living room.

‘Camille, shouldn't you get to bed?’ Drake asked.

‘I’m not sleepy!’ Camille said, giving him a beaming smile. She made her way across the floor and opened the french doors. They stepped out onto a fairylight covered balcony which overlooked the square.

‘Cute balcony you have here, Montespan,’ Drake told her, looking around.

Camille smiled. ‘It’s the reason I took this apartment. I like sitting out here and people watching. You wanna sit?’

They both settled down at the little wooden table and looked out over the balcony in comfortable silence.

‘How are you feeling?’ Drake asked.

Camille snorted. Actually snorted.

‘Pretty buzzed.’

Drake laughed and leaned back in the chair. ‘Not surprised. You can really knock back the tequila.’

Camille pretended to bow. ‘Thank you, thank you…’

Drake chuckled and sipped his beer. Camille eyed him. ‘Want something stronger?’

Drake considered this. Sitting on this balcony with Camille was a nice experience. It made him feel cosy.

‘Sure. What you got?’

‘Whiskey.’

Drake smirked. ‘Woman after my own heart.’

Camille blushed and tucked a lock of hair behind her ear. She excused herself and left Drake to sit in comfortable silence on this glittering balcony, listening to the sound of people in the square laughing and talking as they enjoyed their Friday evening.

She came back with a bottle of whiskey and two glasses. She poured them both a measure and settled back on the chair, tucking her legs up underneath her.

‘So, Drake Walker,’ she said. ‘How’s life treating you?’

Drake sipped from his glass as he pondered her question. ‘Can’t really complain, Montespan,’ he said breezily. ‘Spend my days working at the ranch and hang out in the evenings. What about you?’

Camille smiled. ‘It’s good. Got this cute apartment and a cute guy in front of me.’

Drake rolled his eyes but couldn't help his smile. ‘Jesus, I'm gonna have to start calling you Leo.’

Camille giggled and sipped her whiskey. ‘I’m drunk, don't judge me.’

Drake studied her for a moment. She was so relaxed. Everything about her was effortless. She didn't even have to try. She was effortlessly sweet and effortlessly funny and effortlessly gorgeous.

‘I’m getting itchy feet though,’ Camille said. ‘Like… I want something more.’

Drake raised an eyebrow. ‘What does that mean?’

Camille shrugged. ‘I like my life, sure. But I want more. I feel like I'm just doing the same thing everyday. It's only me and my grandma really. But I just.. want the next step.’

‘What’s the next step?’

Camille downed her whiskey. ‘A family.’

Drake whistled. ‘Wow, I was thinking you meant travelling or something. That's cool, you always wanted a family?’

‘Since I was a little girl,’ Camille admitted. ‘You know that my parents aren't around anymore. So I guess I've always wanted a family to call my own. I love my grandma but I just.. I want someone to come home to and be safe with.’

Drake poured some more whiskey. ‘I’m sure you'll find that person,’ he said softly. ‘And you'll have a family and be happy.’

Camille sipped more whiskey. ‘Do you see yourself having a family?’

Drake smirked. ‘Nope. I don't think I'm the kind of guy women want.’

She frowned. Her eyebrows knitted together and her pixie nose wrinkled. She looked adorable.

‘I beg to differ,’ she said bluntly.

Drake laughed. ‘Camille, you're drunk.’

‘You’re too hard on yourself.’

In the silence that followed, Drake downed his whiskey, letting it burn his throat. He topped himself up and drank another.

‘Thirsty?’ Camille asked.

‘Always,’ Drake said.

‘I think you'd be a great husband,’ Camille told him. ‘I mean, you're very handsome and rugged-’

‘I’m really not-’

‘And you're also really funny? Like you can be so sarcastic and dry and I love it. You don't take any shit but you're also really sweet and kinda dorky? You're just an all round good guy.’

Drake could feel himself blushing. ‘Shucks, Montespan.’

‘It’s true!’ Camille hollered, pointing in the air. ‘You’re gorgeous.’

‘You’re drunk.’

‘So are you.’

She was right. Drake could feel the effects of the whiskey now. He felt warm and fuzzy.

There was a loaded silence between them. Drake could see Camille's eyes fixed on him, her glass of whiskey pressed against her lower lip. God, he wanted to kiss that lip.

‘What about you?’ she finally said. ‘What’s your dream?’

Drake tossed back his whiskey. ‘Honestly? I guess leave here. I love Texas but there's more out there. I went to college in New York for a semester but that didn't work out… so I guess I'd like to live in New York properly.’

Camille grinned. ‘Which college?’

‘Columbia,’ Drake told her. ‘I enjoyed learning. Lots of people spend their time partying but I knuckled down.’

‘Why did you leave?’

Drake went quiet. He sipped his whiskey.

‘My mom got depressed,’ he said softly. ‘The pills in the bathroom were startin’ to look real friendly. So I came home.’

As he thought back to that awful time, he realised that he couldn't stop talking. Maybe it was the whiskey, maybe it just because talking to Camille felt good, but he found that he couldn't shut up.

‘I know she struggled after dad died,’ he said, ‘and what with my sister just up and leaving. I came home because I couldn't lose her. I couldn't lose another person in my family.’

He smirked. ‘I guess I also came home for selfish reasons. The thought of being alone.. it freaks me out. I'm usually always alone anyway but to be ALONE alone with no family. So I started working at the ranch, helped her talk to a doctor, made sure she was looking after herself. And I guess I've stayed there ever since. She's my momma. I love her.’

Camille tilted her head and observed him. Without a word, she stood up and knelt down in front of him.

‘Camille, what are you-’

She kissed him deeply.

She tasted of watermelon lipbalm and whiskey. Drake made a low noise in his throat. Her lips were like paradise.

An animal instinct kicked in. Drake raked his hands through her dark hair, pulling her closer so their chests were flush against each other.

Camille gripped onto his broad shoulders, deepening the kiss.

Drake pulled away and stared at her, his eyes wide and pupils dialated. ‘Should we doing this? You've been drinking -’

‘I want to,’ Camille said simply. Her mouth crashed against his again. Drake held her close, his tongue twisting around hers, unable to comprehend the fact that he was kissing Camille Montespan.

Camille stood up, breaking the kiss. Drake was on his feet after her. He looked down into her brown eyes, his chest heaving and heart pounding.

‘Come with me,’ she whispered.

She took him by the wrist and gently pulled him from the balcony and through her apartment towards her bedroom.

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

No.

Drake had to stop thinking about her. Stop thinking about that night. Stop torturing himself.

Just stop.

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camillemontespan · 3 months

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Ahem, Drake Walker

#drake walker #the royal romance #drake walker x mc #choices the stories you play

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camillemontespan · 3 months

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TIM & LYLA — 3x01: I Knew You When

Maybe you need to get a workout before breakfast.

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camillemontespan · 3 months

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#my edit #drake walker #drake x camille #the royal romance

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camillemontespan · 3 months

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Drake and Camille

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camillemontespan · 3 months

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the one i want to dance with [drake walker x camille montespan]

I wrote this a while ago and forgot about it until I was looking through my drafts :) some early, angsty pre-Cake (drake x camille= cake)

@moonlightgem7 @burnsoslow @emichelle @ibldw-main @fromthedeskofpaisleybleakmore @mskaneko @flowerpowell @saivilo @jovialyouthmusic @katedrakeohd @gardeningourmet @dcbbw @walkerswhiskeygirl @loveellamae

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

Camille sipped her champagne as she partly listened to Madeleine and Olivia exchange barbed insults. Another evening, another ball, another test in patience as she spent time with these ladies.

Hana and Kiara were talking about films they had recently seen, a much nicer conversation, yet Camille couldn’t focus on any of it.

She was watching Drake Walker.

What was it about this man that caught her attention?

He was always in the corner of the room, never taking part. He would sip his whiskey, ignore the other courtiers and never dressed up in a suit.

Despite all of that, Camille found him refreshing. She thought it took courage to be able to go against the grain. He was certainly different.

Liam wandered over to their table and gave them all warm smiles. ‘Ladies,’ he greeted them. 'Who shall join me for the first dance?’

Camille averted her eyes. Don’t pick me, don’t pick me.

Keep reading

#old fic reblog #drake walker #drake walker x mc #trr fanfic #the royal romance

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camillemontespan · 3 months

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Thank you @kingliam2019 ❤️

her one constant [drake the bodyguard AU] [chapter fifteen, part one: rose gold glow]

So it's been a long time since I wrote more of this! I went on hiatus just before the finale and now I'm writing more of this again. Apologies if this isn't very good, I'm a bit rusty!

This was originally going to be the final chapter but I have more to write so this is the first part of the finale!

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

The dawn light filtered through the window, waking Camille. Blinking, her eyes adjusted and she found that she was lying on her side facing Drake.

They were sharing Lou's narrow sofa. Drake's back was pressed up against the back of the sofa and his arm was protectively curled under Camille, keeping her from falling off. Even in sleep, he kept her safe.

Camille's eyes scanned Drake. His dark hair was tousled and his face needed a shave but to Camille, he looked perfect. Everything about him was perfect.

His body was hard and muscled against her. Softly, Camille reached out to stroke his broad shoulders before sliding her fingers down his arms that were corded with veins. She focused on the bullet wound that was covered with a bandage and she felt her heart tug with guilt.

He had thrown himself in front of her to protect her from the assassin. He had carried out his role as a bodyguard but knowing that he had done it out of love for her, not duty.. Drake was hurt because of her.

Blinking away hot tears, Camille leaned into him and pressed a soft kiss on his skin near the bandage.

'It doesn't hurt, you know..' Drake suddenly spoke, his voice cracking with sleep. 'I know you're worrying.'

He moved to pull her into him, his strong arms wrapping around her. Camille breathed in his familiar scent of leather and sandalwood.

'I just feel guilty -'

'Don't,' he murmured.

His eyes opened now to look at her. He smiled and his brown eyes crinkled around the corners. What kind, gorgeous eyes he had.

Camille leaned in to kiss him. Drake smiled against her lips. 'I'm so happy I get to kiss you every day now,' he murmured.

'Me too,' she whispered.

They were engaged now. Drake was going to be her husband. Camille felt her heart swell and she kissed him deeper this time.

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

They were spooning.

Drake nuzzled his face into the crook of her neck, inhaling her scent. She felt so delicate in his arms.

‘So, how are we going to do this?’ Camille asked, lazily stroking his hand with her fingers. ‘Like.. announce that we're engaged?’

Drake chuckled. ‘If it were up to me, I'd take you away and we elope. No announcement necessary.’

Camille smiled. ‘That would be perfect. But…’

‘But not realistic,’ Drake said. ‘I know. You're the Duchess of Valtoria. You've decided not to marry a noble and are instead slumming it with your bodyguard. How Whitney Houston of you.’

‘Hey!’ Camille protested, rolling around to face him. ‘I love Whitney Houston!’

Drake chuckled. ‘Of course you do.’

Camille stuck out her tongue playfully.

Drake loved this side of Camille. She was the most carefree and relaxed she had ever been in the time that he'd known her. When they had first met, she had been anxious, skittish at every noise, constantly analysing her surroundings, never being fully present.

She had shielded his body amongst the bullets. As every instinct in her body screamed at her to get out of danger, she had stayed with him. Drake could not imagine how terrified she had been in that moment.

Camille was the strongest person he had ever known.

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

As Camille changed into her silk dress from the ball, Drake padded through to the bathroom. On his way, he bumped into Lou, who was also creeping his way around. Clearly he didn't want to wake up his house guests.

‘Hey Lou,’ Drake whispered.

Lou smiled, relief flooding his face. He looked genuinely happy to see Drake.

Oh god. Were they friends now?

‘Glad you're on your feet, Walker,’ Lou said. ‘That bullet wound got us all a bit scared.’

‘The mighty Lou Costello, scared?’ Drake smirked. ‘Wow.’

Lou chuckled. ‘Hey, in our line of work, it's always in the back of my mind. Especially seeing you with Camille.’

Drake smiled and looked down at the floor. ‘Speaking of..’ Lou said coyly. ‘How is she?’

‘She’s perfect.’

Lou grinned. ‘Glad to hear it. You look really happy, man.’

Drake smiled. ‘I am.’

He wasn't going to tell Lou they were engaged. Better to wait for Camille to decide a game plan. She was the Duchess of Valtoria after all.

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

Drake and Camille left Lou’s shortly after. They were dressed in their clothes from the night before. Thank god it was still early and nobody was around yet. They must have looked quite a sight.

Camille's long silk dress was stained with blood with a rip running down her thigh.

Drake's white shirt had an ugly red blood stain which had bloomed over his shoulder, directly over his wound.

Gently, Drake took his suit jacket and wrapped it over Camille's shoulders. The jacket covered the damage, at least. Camille's fingers wrapped around the fabric, pulling his jacket in close to her. She felt cocooned in the material, as if Drake was around her. As he always was.

The streets were silent after the chaos of last night. It felt eerie. If Camille thought too hard about last night, her throat would constrict and her heart would begin to rapidly beat in her chest.

She exhaled.

Drake gently reached out and took her hand, giving it a squeeze. He knew. Somehow, he knew exactly what she was feeling. Then again, she shouldn't be surprised. Drake could read her better than anyone.

‘Let’s go for a walk,’ Drake said softly. Together, they wandered down the street with the ocean in the distance.

They reached the harbour. Personally, Drake loved this place. It was so peaceful. The complete opposite to Drake's life.

Their fingers entwined, Drake and Camille walked along to the small beach located close by. It was so quiet. The sun was low, not quite risen, and cast a warm, peach glow over the water.

‘So.. can we talk about us?’ Camille asked, looking up at Drake.

Drake squeezed her hand. ‘Serious business.’

‘It is,’ Camille agreed. ‘I just wanted to know your thoughts.

‘As I said before, I'd take you away and we elope,’ Drake explained, ‘but obviously we can't do that. You'll need to speak to King Liam. Oh fuck, should I have asked his permission first? Is that a thing?’

Camille giggled. ‘He’s not my dad, Drake! Besides, I don't want permission to marry you.’

‘It might be different now you're noble,’ Drake told her. ‘Besides, he's your friend.’

Camille sighed. ‘You’re so wise..’

They both settled down on the sand. Camille snuggled up to him as they looked out at the water.

‘Are you happy to become a Duke?’ Camille asked. ‘I don't want you taking on the title if you aren't comfortable. It's a lot to get used to. I'm still adjusting.’

Drake exhaled. ‘I won't lie. Being a Duke is not exactly my life ambition. It's unexpected. But I want to be with you. I want you to be my wife. Jesus, Camille, the thought of that makes me so excited that I just forget about everything else. And I think that says it all.’

Camille's cheeks turned pink. She played with her fingers, feeling like if she looked at him she would end up acting all giddy and embarrass herself.

Right now, she wanted to shout from the rooftops. Drake wanted to be with her. The title didn't put him off. Her baggage didn't put him off. He wanted HER.

She told him this, her voice wavering with emotion.

Drake chuckled. ‘Camille, you do realise I've always wanted you? Ever since our first meeting?’

Camille covered her eyes with the palms of her hands and groaned. ‘Oh god, I was such a mess.’

‘No you weren't,’ Drake said softly.

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

SEVERAL MONTHS AGO

Drake knocked on the heavy wooden door and waited patiently with his hands crossed. It was a force of habit. He always stood upright, his back straight, hands crossed as if he was in church. Not that Drake went to church. But if he DID.

The door opened.

For some reason, the Duke of Ramsford was standing at the threshold. Drake had seen him on TV and across the newspaper pages. He was infamous for his Beaumont Bashes, his annual party, and his arrogant attitude.

He was holding a clipboard and looked rather serious.

‘Good morning,’ he greeted Drake grandly. ‘Are you here for the bodyguard interview?’

‘Yes, I'm Drake Walker,’ Drake told him, bowing his head slightly.

Why was he bowing his head? Was it because the Duke was a noble and Drake felt he had to defer to him? Jesus Christ.

‘Excellent, please come in,’ the Duke of Ramsford said in a clipped tone. He strode ahead of Drake, leading him through a marble foyer and down a long corridor that smelled of jasmine and glowed from the light of pillar candles.

‘So, I can see from your résumé that you have great experience working with high profile figures,’ the Duke said, flipping through the pages on the clipboard. Drake could see that it was indeed his résumé and there was a ton of writing all over it with some of his information circled in red pen.

‘Yes, I've worked with diplomats mainly,’ Drake explained.

‘And you are aware of the.. sensitive situation with the Duchess of Valtoria?’ the Duke asked, eyeing Drake.

Drake cleared his throat. ‘Yes,’ he said. ‘I’ve read the news reports, I know she's had a hard time since becoming the Duchess of Valtoria.’

The Duke scoffed. ‘That’s putting it lightly, Mr Walker. Right, she wants to conduct interviews on the terrace. She feels more relaxed there.’

They reached French doors which opened out onto the terrace.

That was when he saw her.

The Duchess of Valtoria was beautiful. Of course, Drake had known she was beautiful as her image was always plastered over magazine covers. But to see her in person… she was gorgeous.

As soon as the thought occurred to him, he pushed it down. Not professional in the slightest.

She stood up from the table and gave him a nervous smile.

‘This is Drake Walker,’ the Duke told her. ‘Excellent resume.’

Camille reached out to shake Drake's hand. ‘Pleased to meet you. Would you like some coffee?’

‘Uh, sure,’ Drake said. ‘Black please.’

Camille poured him a cup of steaming hot coffee. The Duke tutted. ‘Camille, you have servants to do that.’

‘It’s just coffee, Bertrand,’ Camille said with a sigh. ‘I’m hardly going to hurt myself.’

The Duke shuffled Drake's résumé, clearly not wanting to dignify her reply with a response. God forbid she pours me a cup of coffee herself, thought Drake.

The Duchess passed Drake the cup of coffee and sat down at the table, crossing her legs. ‘So…’ she began.

She eyed the Duke.

He cleared his throat. ‘I’m helping the Duchess with interviews as I want to ensure she employs the best bodyguard possible. As you know, there was an assassination attempt at the palace during a ball. The Duchess was caught up in the event. Her bodyguard, Mara, was dismissed the following morning.’

Drake nodded, his eyes flitting from the Duke to settle on the Duchess. She was playing with her sleeve, an anxious gesture he assumed. Her eyebrows were furrowed, intense.

‘The Duchess has been feeling-’ the Duke said. Drake snapped his attention back to him.

‘I mean no disrespect here, sir, but surely the Duchess should be the one to say how she's been feeling?’ Drake interrupted.

The Duke stared at Drake. The Duchess's eyes widened and she abandoned her sleeve.

Drake nodded at her, giving her an encouraging smile.

‘Umm.. okay, I've been seeing a therapist once a week,’ she explained, ‘and I've been diagnosed with PTSD. I have nightmares. I can't set foot in the palace. I prefer to stay at home, declining invitations… which as the new Duchess of Valtoria, doesn't make me very popular.’

‘Being popular is overrated anyway,’ Drake said, half joking.

She laughed weakly and tucked her hair behind her ear. ‘I have to be seen in public but the idea of being in a crowd freaks me out right now. I just worry someone is going to be there with a gun. So I'm not at my most.. confident.’

Drake smiled sympathetically. ‘I can help you with that.’

The Duke of Ramsford cleared his throat. ‘Mr Walker, if you were employed as her bodyguard, your job is simply to keep her safe. You won't need to help her with confidence issues or anything else-’

‘If she has to go to events under my protection, I'd prefer knowing she was walking in there feeling assured and confident,’ Drake cut in.

The Duke gave Drake a level stare. ‘Were you like this with all your previous employers?’

‘Yup,’ Drake said, ‘that’s why you've got a solid recommendation letter.’

The Duchess hid a smile. The Duke sighed.

‘Right, moving on.. you are aware that the post would require you to live in this manor with the Duchess?’

Drake nodded. ‘Yes.’

‘You have no family that would have an issue with this?’

Drake smirked. ‘What family? It's just me.’

The Duke nodded. ‘Perfect. The other interviews we've had have all failed at this step.’

The Duchess let out a weak laugh. ‘I’m quite fussy, apparently.’

She was mocking herself. She looked down at her hands and clenched and unclenched her fists. Another anxious habit, Drake bet.

‘You would be willing to protect the Duchess with everything you have?’ the Duke asked. ‘You would put yourself in harms way to keep her safe? You would be happy to move into this manor and essentially live with her?’

Drake's eyes flicked to the Duchess's. Her eyes bore into him, like his answer was the most important thing in the world.

‘I will protect the Duchess with my life,’ Drake replied, keeping his eyes fixed on her. ‘It will be my duty and honour.’

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

Drake looked at Camille now. She was looking out to the water and the sun had cast her in a rose gold glow.

‘You look beautiful,’ he murmured.

Camille bit her lip and smiled. She turned to look at him and leaned forward to press a soft kiss on his lips.

‘Wanna go home?’ she asked.

Drake blinked. Home. Of course. The manor was his home now, officially.

‘Sounds perfect.’

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

Camille practically dragged him through the manor upstairs to her bedroom. She kicked the door shut with her foot. Drake laughed and pulled her into him.

‘Someone’s eager.’

Camille gave him a mischievous smile. ‘Can you blame me?’

Drake chuckled. He stepped back and looked around the room. ‘Just one second…’

He started to look around the room, opening the door to the en-suite, pulling open the closet doors.

Camille watched him as he did this. He was so careful, so serious about her safety. She knew this of course but knowing he was doing it because he loved her, not just because he was her bodyguard…

Satisfied that the room was clear, he returned to her arms, kissing her roughly. His fingers raked through her dark hair as he pulled her into him.

‘Someone’s eager,’ Camille joked against his lips.

‘Can you blame me?’ Drake teased, smiling against her mouth. She gently nipped at his lower lip, making him groan.

Camille stepped back and looked up at him with her brown eyes. He watched her, his chest rising and falling.

Slowly, she reached out and started to unbutton his shirt. She did this delicately, careful not to brush his wound. Drake closed his eyes and swallowed as he felt her fingertips trace lines along his chest.

Camille studied him. He was so broad and strong. He was built perfectly.

She slowly pulled his shirt off, letting it drop to the floor. Gently, she traced his hip lines, making him breathe in sharply.

‘You’re so handsome,’ Camille murmured.

Her hands found his belt. Keeping her eyes on his, she made quick work of unbuckling the belt, prising it off with her fingers. Drake pulled his trousers off, kicking them away.

Camille's fingers latched onto the waistband of his boxers. She pulled them down, Drake helping her impatiently.

He stood before her, completely naked.

Camille ran her hands down his chest, her fingers lightly dancing down his abs.

Drake reached out to brush her jawline with his thumb.

They were being so.. tactile. After all this time of trying not to touch, trying to be professional, occasionally failing at that… now they could do what they wanted. And it was sheer, utter bliss.

‘Your turn now,’ Drake murmured.

Camille gave him a shy smile.

Drake gently pulled the skinny straps of her silk dress down past her shoulders, pressing butterfly kisses along her neck, across her collarbone, along her shoulder.

Camille closed her eyes, focusing on his lips and his warm breath against her skin.

Her dress fell down and pooled at her feet.

He continued to kiss her skin as he pulled down her underwear.

Drake stepped back to look at her. His eyes slowly travelled down her body and back again. He couldn't believe that she was now his. He got to be with her like this for the rest of his life.

Camille stepped closer to him and kissed him, a deep kiss that he sank into.

‘You look very serious right now,’ she whispered in his ear.

‘Because this is serious business,’ Drake murmured, closing his eyes as he focused on her lips on his skin. ‘Very serious business loving you.’

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camillemontespan · 3 months

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her one constant [drake the bodyguard AU] [chapter fifteen, part one: rose gold glow]

So it's been a long time since I wrote more of this! I went on hiatus just before the finale and now I'm writing more of this again. Apologies if this isn't very good, I'm a bit rusty!

This was originally going to be the final chapter but I have more to write so this is the first part of the finale!

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

The dawn light filtered through the window, waking Camille. Blinking, her eyes adjusted and she found that she was lying on her side facing Drake.

Camille's eyes scanned Drake. His dark hair was tousled and his face needed a shave but to Camille, he looked perfect. Everything about him was perfect.

Blinking away hot tears, Camille leaned into him and pressed a soft kiss on his skin near the bandage.

'It doesn't hurt, you know..' Drake suddenly spoke, his voice cracking with sleep. 'I know you're worrying.'

He moved to pull her into him, his strong arms wrapping around her. Camille breathed in his familiar scent of leather and sandalwood.

'I just feel guilty -'

'Don't,' he murmured.

His eyes opened now to look at her. He smiled and his brown eyes crinkled around the corners. What kind, gorgeous eyes he had.

Camille leaned in to kiss him. Drake smiled against her lips. 'I'm so happy I get to kiss you every day now,' he murmured.

'Me too,' she whispered.

They were engaged now. Drake was going to be her husband. Camille felt her heart swell and she kissed him deeper this time.

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

They were spooning.

Drake nuzzled his face into the crook of her neck, inhaling her scent. She felt so delicate in his arms.

‘So, how are we going to do this?’ Camille asked, lazily stroking his hand with her fingers. ‘Like.. announce that we're engaged?’

Drake chuckled. ‘If it were up to me, I'd take you away and we elope. No announcement necessary.’

Camille smiled. ‘That would be perfect. But…’

‘But not realistic,’ Drake said. ‘I know. You're the Duchess of Valtoria. You've decided not to marry a noble and are instead slumming it with your bodyguard. How Whitney Houston of you.’

‘Hey!’ Camille protested, rolling around to face him. ‘I love Whitney Houston!’

Drake chuckled. ‘Of course you do.’

Camille stuck out her tongue playfully.

Camille was the strongest person he had ever known.

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

‘Hey Lou,’ Drake whispered.

Lou smiled, relief flooding his face. He looked genuinely happy to see Drake.

Oh god. Were they friends now?

‘Glad you're on your feet, Walker,’ Lou said. ‘That bullet wound got us all a bit scared.’

‘The mighty Lou Costello, scared?’ Drake smirked. ‘Wow.’

Lou chuckled. ‘Hey, in our line of work, it's always in the back of my mind. Especially seeing you with Camille.’

Drake smiled and looked down at the floor. ‘Speaking of..’ Lou said coyly. ‘How is she?’

‘She’s perfect.’

Lou grinned. ‘Glad to hear it. You look really happy, man.’

Drake smiled. ‘I am.’

He wasn't going to tell Lou they were engaged. Better to wait for Camille to decide a game plan. She was the Duchess of Valtoria after all.

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

Drake and Camille left Lou’s shortly after. They were dressed in their clothes from the night before. Thank god it was still early and nobody was around yet. They must have looked quite a sight.

Camille's long silk dress was stained with blood with a rip running down her thigh.

Drake's white shirt had an ugly red blood stain which had bloomed over his shoulder, directly over his wound.

The streets were silent after the chaos of last night. It felt eerie. If Camille thought too hard about last night, her throat would constrict and her heart would begin to rapidly beat in her chest.

She exhaled.

‘Let’s go for a walk,’ Drake said softly. Together, they wandered down the street with the ocean in the distance.

They reached the harbour. Personally, Drake loved this place. It was so peaceful. The complete opposite to Drake's life.

Their fingers entwined, Drake and Camille walked along to the small beach located close by. It was so quiet. The sun was low, not quite risen, and cast a warm, peach glow over the water.

‘So.. can we talk about us?’ Camille asked, looking up at Drake.

Drake squeezed her hand. ‘Serious business.’

‘It is,’ Camille agreed. ‘I just wanted to know your thoughts.

Camille giggled. ‘He’s not my dad, Drake! Besides, I don't want permission to marry you.’

‘It might be different now you're noble,’ Drake told her. ‘Besides, he's your friend.’

Camille sighed. ‘You’re so wise..’

They both settled down on the sand. Camille snuggled up to him as they looked out at the water.

‘Are you happy to become a Duke?’ Camille asked. ‘I don't want you taking on the title if you aren't comfortable. It's a lot to get used to. I'm still adjusting.’

Camille's cheeks turned pink. She played with her fingers, feeling like if she looked at him she would end up acting all giddy and embarrass herself.

Right now, she wanted to shout from the rooftops. Drake wanted to be with her. The title didn't put him off. Her baggage didn't put him off. He wanted HER.

She told him this, her voice wavering with emotion.

Drake chuckled. ‘Camille, you do realise I've always wanted you? Ever since our first meeting?’

Camille covered her eyes with the palms of her hands and groaned. ‘Oh god, I was such a mess.’

‘No you weren't,’ Drake said softly.

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

SEVERAL MONTHS AGO

The door opened.

He was holding a clipboard and looked rather serious.

‘Good morning,’ he greeted Drake grandly. ‘Are you here for the bodyguard interview?’

‘Yes, I'm Drake Walker,’ Drake told him, bowing his head slightly.

Why was he bowing his head? Was it because the Duke was a noble and Drake felt he had to defer to him? Jesus Christ.

‘Yes, I've worked with diplomats mainly,’ Drake explained.

‘And you are aware of the.. sensitive situation with the Duchess of Valtoria?’ the Duke asked, eyeing Drake.

Drake cleared his throat. ‘Yes,’ he said. ‘I’ve read the news reports, I know she's had a hard time since becoming the Duchess of Valtoria.’

The Duke scoffed. ‘That’s putting it lightly, Mr Walker. Right, she wants to conduct interviews on the terrace. She feels more relaxed there.’

They reached French doors which opened out onto the terrace.

That was when he saw her.

The Duchess of Valtoria was beautiful. Of course, Drake had known she was beautiful as her image was always plastered over magazine covers. But to see her in person… she was gorgeous.

As soon as the thought occurred to him, he pushed it down. Not professional in the slightest.

She stood up from the table and gave him a nervous smile.

‘This is Drake Walker,’ the Duke told her. ‘Excellent resume.’

Camille reached out to shake Drake's hand. ‘Pleased to meet you. Would you like some coffee?’

‘Uh, sure,’ Drake said. ‘Black please.’

Camille poured him a cup of steaming hot coffee. The Duke tutted. ‘Camille, you have servants to do that.’

‘It’s just coffee, Bertrand,’ Camille said with a sigh. ‘I’m hardly going to hurt myself.’

The Duke shuffled Drake's résumé, clearly not wanting to dignify her reply with a response. God forbid she pours me a cup of coffee herself, thought Drake.

The Duchess passed Drake the cup of coffee and sat down at the table, crossing her legs. ‘So…’ she began.

She eyed the Duke.

Drake nodded, his eyes flitting from the Duke to settle on the Duchess. She was playing with her sleeve, an anxious gesture he assumed. Her eyebrows were furrowed, intense.

‘The Duchess has been feeling-’ the Duke said. Drake snapped his attention back to him.

‘I mean no disrespect here, sir, but surely the Duchess should be the one to say how she's been feeling?’ Drake interrupted.

The Duke stared at Drake. The Duchess's eyes widened and she abandoned her sleeve.

Drake nodded at her, giving her an encouraging smile.

‘Being popular is overrated anyway,’ Drake said, half joking.

Drake smiled sympathetically. ‘I can help you with that.’

‘If she has to go to events under my protection, I'd prefer knowing she was walking in there feeling assured and confident,’ Drake cut in.

The Duke gave Drake a level stare. ‘Were you like this with all your previous employers?’

‘Yup,’ Drake said, ‘that’s why you've got a solid recommendation letter.’

The Duchess hid a smile. The Duke sighed.

‘Right, moving on.. you are aware that the post would require you to live in this manor with the Duchess?’

Drake nodded. ‘Yes.’

‘You have no family that would have an issue with this?’

Drake smirked. ‘What family? It's just me.’

The Duke nodded. ‘Perfect. The other interviews we've had have all failed at this step.’

The Duchess let out a weak laugh. ‘I’m quite fussy, apparently.’

She was mocking herself. She looked down at her hands and clenched and unclenched her fists. Another anxious habit, Drake bet.

Drake's eyes flicked to the Duchess's. Her eyes bore into him, like his answer was the most important thing in the world.

‘I will protect the Duchess with my life,’ Drake replied, keeping his eyes fixed on her. ‘It will be my duty and honour.’

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

Drake looked at Camille now. She was looking out to the water and the sun had cast her in a rose gold glow.

‘You look beautiful,’ he murmured.

Camille bit her lip and smiled. She turned to look at him and leaned forward to press a soft kiss on his lips.

‘Wanna go home?’ she asked.

Drake blinked. Home. Of course. The manor was his home now, officially.

‘Sounds perfect.’

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

Camille practically dragged him through the manor upstairs to her bedroom. She kicked the door shut with her foot. Drake laughed and pulled her into him.

‘Someone’s eager.’

Camille gave him a mischievous smile. ‘Can you blame me?’

Drake chuckled. He stepped back and looked around the room. ‘Just one second…’

He started to look around the room, opening the door to the en-suite, pulling open the closet doors.

Camille watched him as he did this. He was so careful, so serious about her safety. She knew this of course but knowing he was doing it because he loved her, not just because he was her bodyguard…

Satisfied that the room was clear, he returned to her arms, kissing her roughly. His fingers raked through her dark hair as he pulled her into him.

‘Someone’s eager,’ Camille joked against his lips.

‘Can you blame me?’ Drake teased, smiling against her mouth. She gently nipped at his lower lip, making him groan.

Camille stepped back and looked up at him with her brown eyes. He watched her, his chest rising and falling.

Camille studied him. He was so broad and strong. He was built perfectly.

She slowly pulled his shirt off, letting it drop to the floor. Gently, she traced his hip lines, making him breathe in sharply.

‘You’re so handsome,’ Camille murmured.

Her hands found his belt. Keeping her eyes on his, she made quick work of unbuckling the belt, prising it off with her fingers. Drake pulled his trousers off, kicking them away.

Camille's fingers latched onto the waistband of his boxers. She pulled them down, Drake helping her impatiently.

He stood before her, completely naked.

Camille ran her hands down his chest, her fingers lightly dancing down his abs.

Drake reached out to brush her jawline with his thumb.

They were being so.. tactile. After all this time of trying not to touch, trying to be professional, occasionally failing at that… now they could do what they wanted. And it was sheer, utter bliss.

‘Your turn now,’ Drake murmured.

Camille gave him a shy smile.

Drake gently pulled the skinny straps of her silk dress down past her shoulders, pressing butterfly kisses along her neck, across her collarbone, along her shoulder.

Camille closed her eyes, focusing on his lips and his warm breath against her skin.

Her dress fell down and pooled at her feet.

He continued to kiss her skin as he pulled down her underwear.

Drake stepped back to look at her. His eyes slowly travelled down her body and back again. He couldn't believe that she was now his. He got to be with her like this for the rest of his life.

Camille stepped closer to him and kissed him, a deep kiss that he sank into.

‘You look very serious right now,’ she whispered in his ear.

‘Because this is serious business,’ Drake murmured, closing his eyes as he focused on her lips on his skin. ‘Very serious business loving you.’

#drake walker #trr fanfic #the royal romance #drake walker x mc #drake x camille #choices the stories you play #drake the bodyguard

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