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placewheredreamsneverend · 4 years

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Chapter 3: In The Arms Of Love (mini-series)

The last night in L.A. A waitress from New York is preparing to make the biggest decision of her life. Will she become the next Queen of Cordonia or her heart will lead her in different direction? Game by Pixelberry

The Royal Romance from MC’s POV

MC x Liam x Drake (love triangle)

MC (Riley): Jenna Dewan

Drake: Daniel di Tomasso

Music (Book 1, Chapter 3): Florence + The Machine - Never Let Me Go

*The characters and original storyline are all from The Choices: The Royal Romance book 1. All characters belong to Pixelberry.

*I apologize for any misspelling or improper grammar structure. Sorry for any mistakes. English is not my native language.

I reached for Drake's hand, pulling him closer to me. As we touched his body turned abruptly towards me. I forgot how strong he was but I didn't let go of his hand. I couldn't let him leave without explaining him what happen with Liam and me. He was so close to me. I could feel heat in me rising. My heart was jumping out of my chest. I wanted him so badly but this wasn't the right moment to think about that even I couldn't help myself different. I noticed his thoughts were wandering. I saw it in his eyes. He was unable to hold his gaze. It took all my effort and strength to keep him here, by my side. He smelled of cigarettes and whiskey. He was drinking as I expected.

"Drake, we need to talk", I mumbled. This was the moment of truth. I couldn't let it slip out.

"I don't see about what", he sounded cold, emotionless and seemingly sober. Even I wasn't sure about that.

"About us." I continued. He managed to get out of my hand without hurting me. Thoughtful, as he always was towards me. I knew he wouldn't never forgive himself for hurting me in anyway.

"There is no us! You're getting married." He clenched his fists but remained where he was. He sounded angry and about to leave. I couldn't let that to happen at least not before he first hears what I have to say.

"About that... Congratulation. I'm glad for you and Liam", he said ironic. He clenched his fists even tighter now.

"I'm not marring Liam", I exclaimed.

"What?", he exclaimed, sounding shocked. He immediately turned his face to mine, looking straight through my eyes. I loved his deep warm brown eyes. They reminded me of the warmth of the forest trees.

"He purposed me this evening and I said... no", I explained.

"You did what?", he sounded quite shocked and surprised. I could see in his face traces of relief.

"I said I can't marry him because I'm in love with you", I looked at him and said in softened, tender voice.

"I can't... ", he said in disbelief as he looked away from me.

Why are you making this harder then it is? Why just you don't believe me?

"Drake, I came for Liam. I loved him and I still do. I will always do but I'm in love with you. You're the one I want to be with."

"How am I supposed to believe in it?", he stopped talking for few seconds and continued. Now his face was deadly serious. "Do you know what are you trowing away? I can't offer you half as he can." He sounded devastated and defeated by his own words.

"I didn't come for kingdom, Drake. I came for love and I found it... in the most expect way", I said as I was hoping I made him convinced in my love for him. "I'm sorry... I didn't mean to act... I don't know what to say. Nobody ever chooses me... ", he looked down at the floor.

"Please, don't say that no one ever chooses you. Just say that you want to be with me as I want to be with you" , I almost begged. Please, just say you want me as I want you.

Suddenly, he grabbed my waist and lightly pushed me against the wall and pressed his body against mine, one hand caressing my cheek, his tongue caressing my lips, then sliding deeper... then he stopped and pulled away.

"Hell, god, yes... Riley, I'm drunk", he said his last words with deepest regret. I knew what they meant. He wanted me as I wanted him.

"I know" , I said. He wasn't the only one who felt that way.

"We should probably take you to your room or something", I continued trying to suppress a smile from my face. I made it. It was over. He believed in my words. That's all I was asking for.

"I need to talk to Liam first", he mumbled.

"Not tonight. You are not in condition for such a thing", I said in resentment. What was he thinking? That I'm going to allow him to do such a thing tonight when he can’t hardly stands on his two feet?

"You are right", he agreed as I dragged him in the direction of my room.

"But I don't that's good idea for me to come to your room", he continued.

"We can always go to your room besides that it's not that we haven't already done something we shouldn’t have done... before", I chuckled, blushing at the thought of that. I will never forget that night, our first night together.

"You are not going to take no for an answer?", he grinned at me giving me the old familiar Drake Walker's smirk. That smirk that destroys me and had destroyed me at first place.

"No. Would you like it otherwise?", before I even realized I was flirting with him. By now I knew it comes naturally when I was near him and his presence.

"Me? Never. You know I can't resist you. I was a fool to even try it", he sounded disarmed and honest. I loved him this way. I love that side of him which was reserved just for me.

I took his hand in my and we both rushed inside of his room. I dragged him to the bed. Now he was barely standing by his own. I took off his shirt and pushed him into the bed admiring his defined muscles. I wanted to feel him body to body. I took off my shirt, threw on the floor, leaving my bra and pants on, and curled beside him. I laid my head against his chest. He wrapped his arms around me. I felt save and protected. He felt like home. He was my home. The only home I had.

"You don't answer my calls... I was worried", I mumbled caressing his chest by the slow and gentle movements of my fingers.

"I... thought I lost you... I'm so happy right now I could die", he said in a sleepy voice. I felt his muscles relaxing and his breathing calming. I huddled in his warm embrace, he felt asleep. I covered us with a blanket and very soon I felt asleep in his arms.

#the royal romance #royal romance #romance #love #story #choice #fanmade #chapter #writters on tumblr #writtting #drake walker #drake #mc x drake

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placewheredreamsneverend · 4 years

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Chapter 2: The Last Night In L.A. The Royal Romance (mini-series)

The Royal Romance from MC’s POV

MC x Liam x Drake (love triangle)

MC (Riley): Jenna Dewan

Liam: Daniel Henney

Drake: Daniel di Tomasso

Music (Book 1, Chapter 2): Ruelle - War Of Hearts

*The characters and original storyline are all from The Choices: The Royal Romance book 1. All characters belong to Pixelberry.

*I apologize for any misspelling or improper grammar structure. Sorry for any mistakes. English is not my native language.

I saw Liam standing next to the limo. He was wearing white dress shirt and a grey check suit. He looked stunning as always. He smiled when he saw me coming.

"Good evening, my lady", he said. He grinned and reached for my hand, drawing me in an embrace. He slowly lowered his head, his lips touched mine. I felt like the earth below me is melting away and all time stopped for that moment.

"Where are we going?", I asked him.

"To the place where we first met."

"New York? Where are going to New York?"

"Yes."

I haven't expect that. He took me by surprise. That's when I remembered I need to talk to him about my true feelings. I shouldn't have agreed to meet him outside in first place.

"Liam, we need to talk somewhere private."

"I have arranged everything", he said.

"What do you mean?", I asked.

"I was planning... " I didn't let him finish his sentence.

"As much as I liked it, we need to talk, about us."

"That was my intention", he said.

Suddenly I knew what he was planning to do tonight. He broke engagement off last night. My name was cleared. And he was talking about the future, our future, this morning... It was obvious.

"Liam... Are you saying you wanted to purpose me tonight?"

"You do know how to ruin the surprise. Clever as always. I should have expect that by now."

"About that..."

He knelt down in front of me, took the black box from his pocket and opened it. I looked at the shining ring, set with a diamond.

"Rose, will you do me the honor of becoming my wife?"

"Liam... I can't. We should probably back inside. We need to talk."

He looked shocked but he didn't said a word. He nodded his head in state of agreement as we went back inside and went straight to my room in awkward silence.I just couldn't let him do this. I turned towards him, looking straight at his eyes. He done the same thing. I took a deep breath and broke the silence.

"I guess I owe you an explanation", I mumbled.

"I understand Rose" , he said with sadness in his voice.

"You do?", I was shocked. Did he knew what happen between me and Drake? Did Drake told him?

"Perhaps I rushed to much. I just wanted to be with you. We don't have to marry now. When you feel ready... I can wait."

"Liam, about that. I can't marry you", I said as he looked away from me.

"I don't understand. Why?", he said with so much pain in his voice and it was written all over his face. I felt awful and guilty. I hurted him. But I didn't have a choice. He deserved to know the truth. I couldn't hurt him that way.

"I... slept with Drake." That was the first thought that came to my mind. I regret it immediately.

Damn, Riley! You shouldn't have said that. He didn't said a word to me. He was shocked. He turned his head away from me, deeply thinking. I waited for minute or two.

"I know you are angry. I would be. It is the truth." I couldn't lied to him. He would found that soon or later.

"I... guess I should have expect something like that to happen", he said still not looking at me.

"What do you mean?" , now I was surprised.

"I've hurt you that night, during the coronation. And I practically pushed Drake into your arms... I can forgive that", he explained.

"Liam, I'm not sorry. You did hurt me that night. But you should know me better by now" , he turn his head and looked straight into my eyes with so much pain and sadness I’ve never seen before.

"I didn't slept with him because of revenge. I slept with him because I'm in love with him." He didn't said a word to me. He looked defeated.

"Liam, I came for you. I loved you. And I still do. I'll always do. But you weren't there when I needed you the most. You left me all alone...", I mumbled.

"I'm sorry but I didn't have a choice", his voice trembled with emotions.

"You did. I know it's not simply. But you did have a choice. You simply didn't choose me." He waited for a few seconds, deeply thinking and then he replied.

"You are... right. I'm...", he sounded devastated.

"You broke my heart. I gave myself to you that night. I trusted you... You choose Cordonia over me. And I understand. Perhaps this was fate", I took a deep breath and continued.

"Please, forgive Drake. It was all my fault. I don't want to come between you two. I never did."

"He is grown old men. He can speak for himself", he was angry at the mention of Drake's name. I would be to. If someone done what I done to him I would be too. I would be mad, pissed off. But Liam... He was at the same time composed. Like I was expected from him to be. Always in control of his emotions. Sometimes I asked myself does he ever feel anything deeply? Have I ever talked to true Liam or only to the king of Cordonia?

"Liam, he is a loyal to you. He is your best friend", I said almost begging.

"Rose, I understand why you did but I don't understand why he did", he sounded detached and ironic.

"He knew I was falling for you... and he kept quite about his own feelings."

"He is that kind of type..." I explained.

"But he should have told me", he wasn't convinced.

"And what would you do with that kind of information?" I raised my voice defending the man I love.

"I don't know... "

"Exactly, you don't know... You won't do anything. You couldn't because he is your best friend", I continued, lowering my voice.

"Does Drake know how you feel about him?", he asked with sorrow in his eyes.

"No. I tried. But he kept pushing me away... I'm not sure that my love for him will overcome his loyalty to you. But I couldn't marry you. You belong to someone like Madeline or Hana. I don't fit. All the time, I was pretending to be something I'm not. It teared me apart."

"I understand. You followed your heart. I can't punish you for that. I should be thankful for you telling me the truth. I wish you both the best.", he said with a hollow in his voice.

"Liam, thank you for understanding", I mumbled fighting tears in my eyes.

"Rose, you said you love me?", he asked.

"Yes I did. It is the truth."

"I don't want to lose you, Rose", he sounded genuine and kind.

"I don't want that either. You, Cordonia, became my home", I explained. It was the truth. That's how I felt.

"That's why I propose you to stay. I can give you a duchy in Cordonia. You can become a duchess, if you want", he proposed.

I didn't expect that. That was very thoughtful of him. But I wasn't ready to decide now.

"I need to think about it", I said.

"I understand. I'll leave you."

I kissed him for the least time in the front of my door. He smiled and then we felt apart. I knew that was the last time I'll ever kiss him again. I wanted to cherish this last moment spent with him. And that's when I saw Drake standing in the distance with sorrow in his eyes. He turned his back on me and started walking away. Damn, Drake... I'm so sorry...

I ran towards him.

Music (Book 1, End Chapter 2): Daisy Gray - Wicked Game (Chris Isaak cover)

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placewheredreamsneverend · 4 years

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Chapter 1: The Moment Of Decision, The Royal Romance (mini-series)

The Royal Romance from MC’s POV

MC x Liam x Drake (love triangle)

MC (Riley): Jenna Dewan

Liam: Daniel Henney

Drake: Daniel di Tomasso

Hana: Yoon Bora

Music (Book 1, Chapter 1): Nightmare · Lillian Hepler

*The characters and original storyline are all from The Choices: The Royal Romance book 1. All characters belong to Pixelberry.

*I apologize for any misspelling or improper grammar structure. Sorry for any mistakes. English is not my native language.

I woke up in the middle of the night screaming. My body was covered in sweat. I had the worst nightmare ever. I was lost in the maze. I was badly wounded but I felt no pain. My dress was all covered with blood, my blood. I saw a knife in my hand. It was covered in blood. I dropped the knife and started running. I was terrified. I was running away from something. I didn't know what. The only thing I knew is that I must keep running and don't look back no matter what. I felt lost and frighten but I kept running and running... It felt like hours and hours were passing spinning in a circles of the maze. I couldn't find way out. Suddenly I felt dizzy. I was tired of running. The strength was leaving me and that's when I saw the prince standing in the center of the maze with his back turned away from me. I couldn't see his face. I ran towards him. When I finally got to him I was exhausted. I was ready to give up. I stopped in the front of him and I reached for his shoulder. He slowly turned towards me. His face was... The end. That was the moment I woke up from the dream. The moment when I knew that my heart made a decision.

The next morning when I woke up I felt like I could finally breathe. I felt so relaxed and calm. I felt like a heavy weight, a burden, lifted off my shoulders and from my heart. My name was cleared. Tariq did the right thing the last night talking to the press. He explained them what actually had happened between us that night in Cordonia. I was no longer known as 'slut' of Cordonia but I did felt like one. I had to talk to Drake before I talk to Liam. I putted on my jeans and blue shirt, tied my hair in ponytail and putted on my favorite sneakers, the white Converse shoes. We were not anymore in Cordonia. I could wear what I want. I got ready and left my hotel room heading towards Drake's room. I knocked at the door of his room but nobody answered. He wasn't there so I went back to my room thinking about where he possible could be. It was too early for him to be in a bar drinking whiskey. As I reached for my phone to call him that's when I heard a knock at my door. I opened the door to find Liam, standing.

He had a gentle smile on his face and his blue eyes were sparkling with joy. I loved that eyes. I grinned and reached for him, drawing him close in an embrace. I let him in and put my phone away in my pocket. As I turned towards to him, he took my hands in his, looking straight into my eyes. He was smiling.

"Rose, I broke things off with Madeline", he said.

"You broke things off with Madeline?", I asked feeling a little confused.

I wasn't surprised but I didn't expect that he would done it that soon. He didn't love her and she didn't love him either. I wouldn't wish that kind of marriage to anyone.

"I did", he said.

"How are you feeling? Are you okay?", I asked. That was the first thing that came to my mind. And I really did care for him.

"I'm more then okay", he stopped talking for one short moment and then he continued. "I feel like a weight has been lifted from my shoulders... And without that burden I'm able to see a future of possibilities. I couldn't wait to let you know and to speak with you about it...", he sounded very happy. I have never seen him so happy.

"Liam, we need to talk", I said determined.

"I agree. Unfortunately, there is an urgent matter that requires my attention. However, I have cleared my evening of all obligation. I would love you to meet you outside...", he said.

"Send me a text when and where and we meet there", I said to him.

"I'm happily looking forward to see you", he said.

I reached for him and kissed him in his cheek. He blushed and then he left. I grabbed my phone from my pocket dialing Drake's number. I had to talk to him now more then ever before. It was ringing... but he didn't answered the call. I started to feel worried. I ran straight toward my bed, jumped on it holding my pillow to my chest... I caught myself staring at the ceiling for hour or two, holding phone in my hand, patiently waiting for him to call me back. More time has past... still nothing. Suddenly, I heard the knock at my door. I immediately jumped off the bed to open the door. I knew it wasn't Liam. It had to be Drake. When I opened the door, I saw Hana smiling at me. I was disappointed but also glad to see her. She became my best friend during the time I've spent in Cordonia competing for Liam's hand. I let her in.

"How are you feeling?", she asked. I sensed worry in her voice.

"Nervous. Liam was here earlier. He broke off engagement. We are supposed to see later this evening... ", I said.

"And what about Drake? Have you talked to him?", she asked.

"I haven't. When I woke up this morning I went to his room to talk... but he wasn't there. I called him but he didn't reply. I don't think he wants to see me or hear from me", as I said the words one single drop of tears felt from the corner of my eye down my check. That's how I felt.

"You don't know that for sure", she said trying to encourage me. I was feeling down.

"Have you decided between them two?", she asked.

"Yes, I have", I stopped speaking for one short moment, trying to catch my breath and then I continued. "You know, they two are so different. Liam is open, gentle, kindhearted, affectionate... while Drake is tough, closed-off, but loyal, caring and protective on inside... "

"What do you think who of them two is better for me?", I asked.

"Liam is good for you. He will always be good for you. Drake will be the best or the worst thing that can happen to you. The choice is yours. I can't tell you how you should feel about them."

"I love them both. I don't want to lose any one of them. I'm selfish, I know", I said.

"You are not. Okay, a little bit. You just care for them both", she said.

"So you have decided?", she asked.

"Yes", I said.

"So who is the one? May I know?", she asked curiously.

Just when I wanted to say... I had received the text for Liam saying to meet him in half hour in front of the hotel.

"Liam wants to meet me in half hour", I said.

"We will talk later", she said. She gave a friendly hug and then she left me alone in my room. I decided not to change my clothes. I had enough of that. I missed my comfortable clothes. I took a deep breath and then I went to meet Liam.

#the royal romance #romance #book #game #choice #love #friends #friendship #dreams #decision

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placewheredreamsneverend · 4 years

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Chapter 1: The Returning, Dark Knight Rising (Rose&Bruce)

The Dark Knight Rising from Rose/Bruce’s POV

MC: Rose (Rocio Crusset)

Music (Book 1, Chapter 1): Evanescence - Lost in Paradise

The first chapter of my daydreaming book series. Most of characters are used (will be used) from The Dark Knight series.

*I apologize for any misspelling or improper grammar structure. Sorry for any mistakes. English is not my native language.

“As much as I'd like the past not to exist it still does.”

Rose’s POV

It was late at the evening when I finally arrived at the airport. My private jet was ready to fly just as I’ve requested. I wasn’t sure is it the best thing to do to come back... after so many years and many things that have happened meanwhile. But it was the right thing to. I have some business to take care of. Some papers to read and signed. Mostly, legal matters. And perhaps to finally get in charge of my family company. I still haven’t decided that yet. That would require my long-stay in the town and I wasn’t sure about that. There were also personal things that I needed to take care of as well like Harvey’s funeral. I got his letter too late. I haven’t yet opened it. I still carry it with me wherever I go... So much time has passed. I owned him. He was one of my closest friends. I own him to find out what happened. I still couldn’t believe that he’s gone. I’ve lost so many people I love... I should be adjusted to it by now, but I wasn’t. How could I ever been? I was bleeding inside out and time didn’t help me. Time is an illusion, I should know it better than anyone by now. It didn’t healed my wounds. They only become worse... I did everything I could to heal my pain but my best wasn’t enough. One day I’ve decided to stop trying. I was tired. Let it be there. Now I carry it with me where I go. I’ve learned to live that way. I’ve learned to find strength deep within myself in my darkest moments. Because of her. She was my light of the end of the tunnel. She needed me. And I needed her too. I needed to finish what I had here and come back to her.

Here I come, Gotham.

It was nearly 3am when I arrived at my apartment. I traveled all day/night, I wasn’t sure, and changed planes and cars few times before I finally arrived to Gotham. Something urgent came up, I had to stop to some places. I locked the front door and put my suitcase aside. The apartment was almost empty of furniture. I didn’t have time to arrange anything. The apartment was bright and big with large rooms and floor-to-ceiling windows and the terrace in the living room just as I remembered. I really loved the view on the city, from here you could see the whole Gotham. I almost forgot how it feels like being here. I didn’t want to spent the night in my family manor. There are so many memories I fished to avoid. I took a shower and went straight to bed. I couldn’t sleep all night. It was a day to me. Different time zone. In the early morning I took my phone and sent Lucius message. We have a meeting in the afternoon. And he doesn’t know I’m coming. He doesn’t even know I’m in the town. He is not informed what I was planning to do. I wished I had the time to explain him soner.

Bruce’s POV

He was sitting in his chair at home, deeply thinking about everything that has happened. It was quite in the city this evening especially after recent events. He was feeling angry, lost, confused and ashamed. How that happened? How could he allowed that to happened? He felt responsible. He left everyone down: Gotham, her and himself. He lost the women who he loved. He lost Rachel. He didn’t know what hurts him the most: her death or that she choose Harvey instead of him. There will never be a women in his life like her. He felt guilty for her death. He is never going to allow himself to forget that. He did tried to move on... He tried to ‘replace’ her, like that even possible, and got deceived... by Thalia. She was the worst thing that happen to him. She broke him down. She took everything for him, almost everything. He still had the manor and...But he wasn’t the same anymore. He is not going to feel anything anymore to anyone, especially towards women.

“Sir, wasn’t enough for this evening? The city is safe. You should get some rest. Tomorrow is a big day for you”, said Alfred with familiar worry and eyes pointed at his wardrobe, He didn’t realized that he was still wearing his batsuit on. Alfred was one of the few persons who he trusted. He was his confidant and the closest person he had.

“I’m coming, Alfred.”

True. It will be a big day and possible one of the worst time of his life. When he is probably going to lose one of two things he had left - his family company, just because he believed the wrong woman.

#the dark knight #the dark knigth rises #bruce #bruce wayne #rose #book #fanmade #romance #happyend #happy ending

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placewheredreamsneverend · 4 years

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Chapter 2 : Welcome to Cordonia

The Royal Romance from MC’s POV

MC x Liam x Drake (love triangle)

MC: Jenna Dewan

Liam: Daniel Henney

Drake: Daniel di Tomasso

Maxwell: Xavier Serrano

Hana: Yoon Bora

Olivia: Sophie Turner

Music (Book 1, Chapter 2): Vanessa Carlton - A Thousand Miles

*The characters and original storyline are all from The Choices: The Royal Romance book 1. All characters belong to Pixelberry.

*I apologize for any misspelling or improper grammar structure. Sorry for any mistakes. English is not my native language. And also this is my first time doing something like this. I was inspired by other amazing fanfiction writers on this site.

After packing my bags and leaving my New York apartment behind, one single thought came to my mind: Is this really happening? Here I was, on a plane, with Maxwell and Drake. And I still couldn't believe that I'm leaving my home for someone I've just met, who actually supposed to be to a prince, a real one, not some prince of some kind of a fairy tale. What was I thinking? Where was my common sense? I didn't even know will this all be worth it in the end. What if I made a total fool of myself there? I didn't know much about royalty. I wasn't sure what actually awaits me there... All this thoughts and doubts... I noticed I was driving myself insane. But truth is I didn't care. I just wanted to see him. Liam... My heart pop out of my chest just saying him name in my head.

"Say 'goodbye' to New York and 'hello' to Cordonia!", Maxwell exclaimed as the airplane begin to take off the ground. We were suddenly in the clouds.

"I can't believe this is actually happening...", I said to Maxwell in disbelief.

Can someone please pinch me to see if I'm not dreaming?

"Believe it. We'll be landing soon, ready or not. And if you are not ready, those ladies of court are going to eat you alive", Drake said as he crossed his arms and glanced away from me.

What the hell that was supposed to mean? Is that a threat? A warning? Perhaps some kind of friendly warning... even through it didn't sounded much friendly to me.

"Yeah, don't scare her, Drake. Are you okay, Riley?", Maxwell asked with worried look on his face. He almost felt like a brother I always wished to have and I never had one... And he definitely sounded like one now.

Well, Drake, mission accomplished.

"Honestly..."

No. How can I possible be okay? This is all still new to me... I didn't know what to expect... I was worried but... also excited.

"I'm not afraid of anything", spoke my adventurous spirit. I didn't wanted to give him the satisfaction of knowing.

"Heh. We'll see once we land" , Drake said.

You mean if we land? And when I say 'we' I mean 'you'. I still haven't decided whatever I should throw him out off the plain or not.

Judging by the look on his face I've noticed that he liked what I've just said. Strange. But I didn't care. Much.

"I don't get why you're being so grim about this... " I suddenly felt the urge to confront him.

What is your problem? Seriously?

"Look, no offence, but I've seen girls like go come and go. It never ends well. Not for you, not for Liam, not for the royal family."

No offence? Too late for that. Don't you think?

Even if I was angry at him I believed him. There was something more hiding behind his words...

"She is not some crown-chaser", said Maxwell trying to look angry at him.

Thanks, Maxwell, but I will take it from here... I'm perfectly capable of defending myself even if it means literally like punching Drake in his face.

"Drake, I'm different that those girls. Liam being a prince doesn't matter at all to me." True.

It was true. It didn't matter me. At all. Now that I think about it I even didn't usually go for rich boys, much less royalty...

"That's exactly the kind of naive thinking that's going to land you in trouble here."

I scoffed at him as I thrown my earbuds on and turned up the music. He said something. It felt like mumbling. I didn't hear what. I looked out the window and watched clouds as they move through the sky. I eased myself into my seat, thinking about Liam, thinking about the last night... An hour late I have realized that my thought are wondering... At one moment I was think about Liam, kissing him, and on the next moment butchering Drake. That was so tempting. Where is Michael Myers when you need him? I hope I not become a serial killer in the end of all this. And It hasn't ever started yet... I'm doomed. I wonder what would Liam think if he knew what I was thinking about right now. Would he cared for Drake? He would probably think that I am insane. I smiled quietly at the thought of that. I've seen from the corner of my eye that Drake is looking at me intrigued by my laugh. He is in such trouble. I'm going to figure him out and I'm going to make his life a living hell.

A while later...

"Hey, look! You can see Cordonia out of the window. You don't want to miss this!", said Maxwell nagging me to look. I pulled my earbuds out and looked out the window to see the beautiful town surrendered by water and green trees. I saw the palace standing at the top of it. It looked magnificent. I presumed that was the place we're headed for intentionally.

"That's Cordonia? It's like it look something out of a fairytale! The sparkling ocean, the swaying trees..." I was impressed. I wasn't even imagine how it would look like... All I was thinking was Liam... Well, most of the time. That part was true.

"If you burst into song. I'm jumping out of a plane" , said Drake annoyed by Maxwell's behavior and my words, obviously.

Please go ahead, I won't stop you or perhaps you need someone to push you? This guy is really getting on my nerves... But I didn't wanted let him notice it.

"I'm just saying it's beautiful", I said as I calmed myself down.

"It is, isn't? Are you ready?"

"Ready as I'll ever be."

One car ride later, I stepped onto the ground of the Royal Palace.

"Welcome to your home for next few months", said Maxwell helping me with my bags. I didn't expect that I'll be living here.

"This is where I'm staying. I didn't realize I'd be living in the palace!" The Palace was more beautiful in person. It had gold trim with white and blue colors all around it.

"Most of the nobility live here while the social season is underway... Including all the ladies vying for Liam's hand", he explained.

"Yeah, living under one roof just makes it easier to attend the rose ceremony later", said Drake, laughing.

He is joking, right?

Maxwell rolled his eyes. I knew it.

"Drake's just kidding... at least about the roses... Anyway, I'll show you to your room...", he nodded his head showing me the way to the main entrance.

"This is my cue to take off. See you around... if you're lucky", Drake said taking his bags and leaving. I saw laugh on his face, again.

What that supposed to mean?

I followed Maxwell into the palace, where I climbed the grand staircase. I couldn't help that noticed the bright-red carpet rolled down the stair. The dominant color of interior was gold. The palace was more beautiful on the inside.

"So, what the deal with Drake. Why is he is jaded?", I had to ask.

"Oh, don't mind. Drake's never really... fit in."

"Not used to courtly life?"

"Definitely not. He's a commoner. He's always been outsider here. Even if he is Liam's best friend", he explained.

Drake was Liam's best friend! I found it difficult to believe. They were so different for each other. How can someone be friend with Drake? He has no manners and dislikes everyone and everything he encounters while Liam... Perhaps I judged him too hard.

At the top of the stairs, Maxwell turned down a corridor, showing me my room.

"Your room is here in the west wing. In case you need anything from me or my brother, our rooms are just couple doors away."

"I didn't know you had a brother."

"Yeah, an older brother. His official title is Duke Bertrand Beaumont. As the eldest son. He is the hier and I'm the spare. You'll see him tonight. He'll be excited to meet you."

He stopped short in front of an ornate door.

"This is it... Here is your room!"

As I opened the door I found a lavish guest room with full-length paintings, gilded ceiling and a bed of fluffy pillows.

"As a royal quest, you're spared no luxury..."

"So nothing is stopping me now from jumping on the bed?"

"Only your dignity", he laughed.

"Perfect."

I ran and jumped on the bed, feeling happy as I sinked into the mattress.

"This is so much better then memory foam." Not that I really knew.

"I'll let you settle before your big debut tonight..." Excuse me, my what?

"My what?"

"I'm sorry. I keep forgetting that you're not used all this. The first event of the social season is tonight.... The Masquerade."

The Masquerade? Does that mean that everyone's going to be wearing costumes? Will I need one?

"It's the ball where all the suitors will be presented to the Prince, as well as to the King. Not everyone dresses in costume, but you can be sure that the ladies competing for Liam's attention will be pulling out all the stops." He locked doubtfully at my modest-looking suitcase. And then I remembered I didn't have a costume. "I guess it's too much to ask if you've got a costume or fancy ballgown in there..."

"I packed a dress." It should do that job.

"Well, I wasn't sure so I've made an appointment for you at the palace boutique. Maybe you will find something you like better there."

"I'll check it out."

"Remember. Tonight is very important.It's your chance to make a first impression on all influential people at court and to stand apart from everyone else."

"Don't worry. I've got this."

A few minutes later, I stepped into the palace's boutique and find a women in her bra and underwear, holding a dress. He shrieked and covered herself up with her wardrobe. I immediately turned away from her. She had long straight brown hair with side bangs and beautiful dark brown eyes. She was gorgeous.

"Sorry. I didn't realize someone was already here", I apologized.

"No problem. To be honest I didn't have an appointment. I'm Hana. I suppose you are also here to prepare for the Masquerade tonight. Since you are here and now already dressed, I must assume that you're just like me... searching desperately something to wear", she sounded polite and friendly.

"More or less."

"I can show you around. The boutique has most exquiste gown. Let me just slip my dress..." She put on a dress she was holding in her hand as trying to reach for a zipper. She looked like she was struggling.

"Need a hand?", I offered my help.

"That would be amazing", she sounded thrilled.

I moved towards to her and zipped up her dress. She picked up the matching mask. She was wearing pink dress with gold design throughout.

"Thank you. Not many girls here are like you..." What do you mean?

"Helpful?"

"Nice." I believed her.

"Ah, this dress is perfect!" I agreed. She looked like a princess.

"Now what about you? One must have a mask for the Masquerade!" I totally forgot.

"Have you seen the angel costume? You'd look amazing in white.Or there's also a red one, if you're feeling more... devilish."

"I'll take a look..." , I said as I walked over to the angel dress. I decided to try it. A few minutes later...

"How do I look?", I asked her while I was watching myself in the large mirror. It looked like the perfect dress for occasion like this.

"Heavenly!", she ran up to me and spun me around. I felt excitement running through all of my body. I picked up the matching mask and I was ready.

That evening I met Maxwell at the bottom of the main staircase.

"Nice outfit. You look great."

"Thanks."

He guided me to the doors of the grand ballroom and then whispered in my ear.

"One thing I should mention. As soon as you enter, you'll tell the herald your name and title so that you can be announced..." But I don't have a tittle...

"What's my tittle?", I had to ask.

"You really don't have one, but since my family is sponsoring you, you could technically be considered as 'lady'. Or we can go with your hometown. I guess I should've asked before. What's your last name?"

"Brooks."

"Well, it's not a classical name as Catherine Elizabeth Middleton... But It would do."

As I make my entrance to the grand ballroom, the herald announced Maxwell and then turned to me.

"Please announce me as Lady Riley Brooks."

The herald announced me and I walked into the ballroom. It was exquisite as I imagined it would be. People were all over the room dancing, talking, laughing in their fancy costumes. It looked like everyone is having a good time. But I knew better...

"I've got to talk to Bertrand for sec. You'll be okay on your own, right? Just mingle."

"Mingle... Right... I can do that..." This can't be harder then working in a restaurant and serving costumers. I can do it.

Looking across the ballroom I saw Drake standing alone... and on the other side I saw Hana and a group of finely dresses ladies. I walked towards Hana and gave her a wide smile. I was so glad to see her. She was so polite and friendly towards me.

"Hello again. I'm glad to see you made it", she said with the smile on her face. She was glad to see me too.

"Thanks."

"So, what do you think of the Masquerade?" , she asked curiously.

"Honestly, the Masquerade is a little overwhelming." It was beautiful but it was just too much.

"I know what you mean. I've been coming to these events since I was a little girl!"

I saw sadness in her eyes. I understand. I guess that's was the price you have to pay when you're born in royal family. I wanted to comfort her. I just didn't know how.

"So it never gets easier?"

"To be honest.... It gets more complicated. At least as a child I could run around and have a little fun!"

"Who says we can't do that now?" I saw on her face that she liked that idea.

"Believe me, it'd cause quite a scandal." She was right. I understand. But I don't care... I'm not noble. I'm free to do whatever I want to do with no shame attached to it. At least I was till this moment.

She was about to say more when someone caught her eye from across the room.

"Please, excuse me. There is someone I need to greet. But maybe we can talk later?" , she said.

I was really looking forward to it and I noticed she was too.

I nodded and start walking towards Drake. As i approached him, he nodded and give me a stiff bow. He was wearing the same clothes he did earlier today.

"Good evening, my lady", he sounded politely. I guess it's because he didn't know with whom is he talking to.

"So you do have manners", I teased him.

".. Riley? Is that you?" , he said. He was looking quite surprised.

"Yeah. You didn't recognize me?", I continued.

"I... I was caught off-guard. You clean up well."

I took you by surprise, didn't I?

"Drake... was that actually a compliment?", I keep teasing him.

"Uh, no. " He stopped talking for a second surprised by my question and then he continued. "Looking the part doesn't mean you're going to be welcome here, you know."

"Well, you are as charming as ever..."

I turned away for him feeling angry and trying to keep myself for hitting him.

"Hah. Compared to the most of nobles here, I'm your best friend."

Somehow I understood what we wanted to say.

"Drake. I believe you."

"That's the first smart thing you've said."

Here I was, feeling angry at him... again.

"Thanks."

I turned towards to him with furious look on my face. He notice it.

"Look, I'm not trying to be a jerk. I'm just trying to help."

"You have a very peculiar way of helping."

"I'm just saying the things that I wish someone would've told me a long time ago."

That was the second time I believed him. Perhaps, there was something more in Drake to be seen then his tough exterior. As I was about to say more...

"Ahem! Pardon me, but I absolutely must steal her away", said a women with long bright red hair as she pulled me. I was surprised by her and her behaviour. I managed to control myself not punching her in her gut with my elbow. It wasn't the right place to do such a thing. I saw Drake's laughing out of the corner of my eye. I guess it was written all over my face... But I wasn't here to amuse him.

"Forgive me for being forward but I've never seen you here before.I always notice when heralds announce a new name. I make it a point to know all of the ladies at court. I'm Lady Olivia Nevrakis, Duchess of Lythikos. Lady Riley Brooks... I can say that I'm familiar with your house. It must be... nouveau. Well, seeing as you're the new girl at court, let me give you some advice. When you are presented to the King, you should kiss him shoes when you curtsy to him", she said to me trying to hide away her mischievous look on her face. It was unsuccessful. I notice it.

Excuse me? I didn't believe in a single word she said.

"Really?"

"It's Cordonian custom to show deep respect and reverence for the monarchy. You're lucky that I was here to warn you! Otherwise, you'd look completely ridiculous."

She didn't seems like to be a genuine type of people. More a bitch to me. And I was very good at reading people. She wanted from me to humiliate myself. It was obviously. I wasn't planning to give her that kind of satisfaction. Drake was right...

"Thanks", I said in disbelief.

As I turned away for her Maxwell rushed back to my side.

"Prince Liam is here. Ready to see him again?", he nodded his head at him.

My heart skipped a bit just at the mention of his name. I looked across the crowded ballroom and there he was... He was wearing a back tuxedo with a red sash draped across his torso. He looked stunning as ever.

"Do you think he'll be glad to see me?" , I asked Maxwell seeking for encouragement.

I was feeling nervous and my palms were sweating...

"Only one way to find out... Go talk to him."

A took a deep breath... It's now or never...

#royalromance #theroyalromance #king #liam #cordonia #love #romance #book #fanmade #choice #choices

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placewheredreamsneverend · 4 years

Text

The Royal Romance Book 1 - Chapter 1: Once Upon A Time

The Royal Romance from MC’s POV

MC x Liam x Drake (love triangle)

MC: Jenna Dewan

Liam: Daniel Henney

Drake: Daniel di Tomasso

Maxwell: Xavier Serrano

Music (Book 1, Chapter 1): It Never Ends - Oliver Stay

*The characters and original storyline are all from The Choices: The Royal Romance book 1. All characters belong to Pixelberry.

It will be just an ordinary night at work, I thought while I was preparing for work at local restaurant also a bar. Manager will be quite demanding as usual. Customers will be, well, customers. At least I have Daniel, my best friend, who also works with me at the restaurant, to keep my back. Not that I need it. I know how to take care of myself, as I always have. And I do know how to put people on their place. It was part of my charm. Well, except one exception. But that doesn’t really count. It was my manager. I needed that job. It paid the rent. That was the only reason why I have tolerated such a jerk even trough I loved to throw him insane talking and innocent flirting with customers. The harsh truth is I really needed that job. I can’t afford to get fired and I was already late for my shift. I closed the front door of my apartment in a hurry with keys in my hand and went straight to work.

"Just another glamorous New York Saturday night of hauling trash to the dumpster...", I said to Daniel as we walked outside of the restaurant to throw out the trash in nearest container.

"It could be worse. There could be...” before he could finish his sentence a giant rat run across his foot. Suddenly they were all around. “Rats! Riley, help!", Daniel screamed with terrified look on his face. I was surprisingly calm. It's not that I haven't seen them before, especially working in place like this. I feel needed to say something to calm him down.

"Don't tell me you're afraid of this adorable little mouse family. They're trying to get by, just like us...", I said as calmly as I could. Just when I wanted to say more... our manager had showed up with furious look on his face.

"Hey! Riley, Daniel, quit slacking off over there!", he yelled as we quickly hurried to get the rest bags in the container.

"You told us to take out the garbage", I said, annoyed. Which I pretty was. Annoyed. By his presence.

"And now I'm telling you to wait on the bachelor party that just rolled in. Chop chop!", he said with the usual look on his face telling us “Get inside or you are both fired!” Nothing new. A jerk. And then he left. He was a word-class jerk. And there was any doubt about that.

We went back inside to find the bachelor party. It was Daniel’s turn to serve new customers, I remembered.

One man yelled inside of the restaurant as I entered.

"Waitress, there you are. We need your best table!" I looked around but I didn’t notice him. It was very crowded tonight. And it was Daniel’s turn... I went straight to the bar just when I heard another men yelling.

"Forget the table. Just bring us whiskey and lots of it.”

My kind of man. I thought. I really could use a one glass of whiskey right now.

“Riley, please take this one. I’ve got a date tonight and I’ll never make it out of here in time...”, Daniel said already untying his bow tie and apron. Somehow I wasn't surprised... much. He's been acting weird lately. Love. I guess.

“You really want me to take the bachelor party? I’m on it. The tip will be insane. I will have those guys eating out of my hand in no time.” I really needed that tip. The pay was too damn low.

“You are the best”, Daniel patted me on the back, happy, and then he left the restaurant smiling. At least, someone is going to have some fun tonight.

“Are you two still talking? I’ve seated them already. Now get over there before I dock your pay”, the manager yelled showing me the table waiting to order.

Oh boy, it will be a long night.

I grabbed my pen and paper and then I headed over to the table where three men were seated, talking, and waiting for my to take the order. They were sophisticated well-dressed. Well, except one, the men with dark messy hair and brown eyes. He was dressed casually in jeans and a blue shirt. He is handsome, I thought. But there was something about them... different. They were overdressed for a place like this.

“Hello, gentlemen. I’ll be taking care of you this evening”, I said politely to them.

“Waitress, steaks for the table”, said the man with brown hair and funny loving smile. I liked him immediately. There was something about him... He sounds friendly. I smiled towards him.

“How about some filet mignon, medium rare and prepared with a bearnaise sauce?”, said the other men with dark eyes and sophisticated stature. Wow! Look around. You do know that you are in a bar? Right? This isn't some kind a fancy restaurant. I thought.

“The closest thing we have to filet mignon is the deluxe burger”, I said.

“Dare I ask for your wine list?”, he said annoyed. He is such a snob.

“We’ve got excellent vintage house red...” He didn't let me finish my sentence.

“House red?”, he looked at me with a disgusted look on his face. Correction, a wine snob.

“It also comes in white.” I definitely didn't like his attitude. He sounded pretentious. And I was very good at reading people...

“We will be fine with a bottle of whiskey... and four deluxe burgers”, said the handsome one with half-smile, half-laugh on his face. Oh, I really liked him. He looked like the type of guy I usually dated.

“Four?”, he nodded behind me and I turned to see the last man man at the party. Whoa. He is really cute! I thought. He had blond hair and the most mesmerizing blue eyes I’ve ever seen. I could easily get lost in them if I allowed myself to. He was wearing a blazer. He also was very handsome.

“Sorry, I’m late.Thank you for your patience, Mis...?” And he sounds politely.

“Uh, Riley”, I said noticing I was holding my breath. He took my breath away.

“Charmed to make our acquaintance, Riley. I’m Liam”, he introduced himself in such delicate manner. Handsome and polite. I’m in so trouble...

“Trust me the pleasure is all mine. Now let me go and put your order. Be right back”, I said with large smiley on my face as I walked away.

There was one thing I was sure of: they were definitely not from around here.

Later that evening, a little after the bar has closed I was finishing up when someone tapped me on the shoulder... It was the man with mesmerizing blue eyes. It was Liam. I remembered his name. How could I forget? You don’t see men like him often at the place like this.

“I think we are about ready to head out. I just wanted to thank you and apologize. I know we keep you late and my friends can be... demanding”, he sounded genuinely.

Demanding, you think? I do have another word for that...

“Demanding? Nothing I couldn’t handle.” Truth.

“I got the feeling that you could take care of herself. If you don’t have any plans tonight, maybe I can make it up to you by buying you a drink. We are about to go to a club”, he looked me with a large smile on his face, the same smile like mine was earlier before. I was melting.

You want to buy me a drink? Like a date? Are you asking me out on a date?

“Oh? Which one?” I didn’t mind. Count me in. It’s not that I have any plans tonight... I noticed that he was hoping for my acceptance.

“We are hoping that you may have some advice about that. We’re not from around here.” No, kidding.

“I recommend going...” before I said anything I remembered that all the clubs around here are crowded and noisy. What I really needed after long work is quite place to rest my head. And I had just the right place in mind.

“...to a gorgeous secret cove by the beach. Forget the club.” My favorite spot. Just what I needed right now. Trough I wasn’t sure will he appreciate it.

“You know... that actually sounds perfect. To be honest, I’m getting a little tired of the usual bachelor party antics. Lead the way!”

You are? I was feeling little confused and at the same surprised by his words. I didn’t expect it. He got me...

“Sure. Let me finish up here and I’ll meet you out front...”, I said and headed back to change. My heart started pumping fast thinking about spending night with him... I’m in a such big trouble...

My heart was still pumping fast when I threw on my casual green dress, my favorite dress, I was so glad that I’ve decided to show up at work tonight wearing her, and stepped outside of the restaurant. I was feeling so excited. And they there were. The four men were waiting for me to come next to the limo. At least, that’s what I thought. I heard Liam calling them by their names. The one with funny and loving smile was Maxwell. Tariq was the pretentious one. Oh, I really didn't like that one. And the one with messy brown hair and casual look was Drake. As I approached them, Drake’s eyes went wide.

“Wow”, he said surprisingly. I didn’t expect that. I was surprised as well.

“Wow?” It almost sounded like a compliment. I wasn’t sure.

“I... almost didn’t recognize you.” Definitely a compliment. It was kind of cute. He was kind of cute. I thought.

“That uniform wasn’t doing you justice”, said Tariq, the pretentious sophisticated wine snob. Flattering. I wasn't surprised. I knew that type of men very well. A slimy ones.

Thanks. But don’t think for one second that you can fool me...

“Yeah, the waitress is hot”, said Maxwell. I didn’t mind... Much. Nothing I haven’t heard before.

I noticed Liam didn’t like the way they were talking about me, especially in front of me.

“Ahem. Her name is Riley and I doubt she appreciate you talking about her like that”, said Liam to them with an angry look on his face. Only if a look could speak... his would be saying: "behave". A truly gentleman. I thought. I did appreciated his words. Not that I needed it them. And they didn’t bothered me... much. I’ve got used to hear stuff like that. That��s when you work in a bar, you get used to of all sorts of people. But still it was very consider of him... He cares about how I feel... He does look like a person who cares...

“Right. Sorry, Riley”, said Maxwell looking at me with the “puppy eyes” look. How can anyone could be possible angry at him? He looked like a childish men but in some sort of good way.

“I meant to say you look lovely. Now let’s get this party going”, he sounded so excited. He was happily looking for this night to start.

Thanks, Maxwell. I forgive you. Not that I need to.

“Hang on... The waitress is coming with us?”, said Drake in some kind of shock state.

“Actually, we’re going with her. She’s is picking our next destination”, Liam explained.

“So she is our tour guide now?” Drake continued looking at me kind of surprised and angry at the same time. What the hell is wrong with this guy? I was hundred percent sure that I didn’t do anything to piss him off... Thought, I even kinda liked him... and I thought he kinda liked me too. Liam put his arms around Drake’s shoulders and calmly said to him:

“Riley, was kind enough to agree to show us around. She’s doing us a favor, so play nice”, Liam smirked at me and nodded as Drake calmed down.

I wasn’t convinced. Drake didn’t wanted me to go with them. And I didn’t know why. But I didn’t care. I was there for Liam.

A short time later... We all pilled out of the limo at the beach and the guys headed off toward the ocean.

“We should build a bonfire”, said Drake as he searched for nearby woods. He didn’t look angry any more. What the hell was back that then?

“I’m not doing manual labor”, said Tariq. Of course, what else could you possible expect from sophisticated wine snob?

“Sorry I forgot who I was talking to. What I meant was, I’ll go build a bonfire”, said Drake as he walked away. He is handy. I though. I had dwelling thoughts about him.

“This place is awesome! Skinny dipping!”, said Maxwell as he started to remove his shirts and unbutton his pants.

“Keep your pant on, Maxwell!”, Tariq shouted. Maxwell continued to strip and then ran towards the ocean. Liam turned towards to me.

“Thank you for bringing us here. I can tell the guys are enjoying themselves already”, he said with warm smile on his face.

“I bet you’ve used to putting everyone else first”, I said as I looked up at him and our eyes met.

“And why would you say that?”, he asked, astonished.

“I can tell. I’m good at reading people...” Truth. I am. But tell me more about you... I really want to know you.

“Now forget about your friends. What about you? Do you like it here?”

“I love it”, he sounded happy.

“It’s my secret spot, so I’m really trusting you.”

Why did I just said that? I really do trust him... even trough I don’t know him that well... yet.

“I’ll do my best to be worthy of that trust. Though there’s just one problem... How am I supposed to buy you that drink?”, he asked me with a chuckle as I blushed. He was charming.

“You’ll think of something. Or maybe you’ll just keep owing me.”

“Fair enough. So what should we do?”, he asked and then patiently waited for my reply while as I was thinking.

“We should... jump in the ocean!”, I said, thrilled.

“Won’t we get soaked?”

Yes. That’s the point!

“You are not afraid of a little water, are you?”

Where is your sense of adventure? I stared running off into the water.

“Wait up!”, he exclaimed as I ran straight into the water catching ice cold waves. COLD!

“Cold!”, Liam yelled as catching up to me.

“But worth it, right?”, I said to him hoping for him to understand the deeper meaning of this little adventure. And he did. I saw it in his eyes.

“I never felt more alive... “, he said as I stared to shiver from the cold. I believed him. Even then I didn't know why.

“You cold?”

“Maybe just a little...” A lot.

“I see that the guys got the bonfire going. Let’s head back and warm up...”, I shaked my head in the state of of an agreement as I wanted to reach for his hands and feel his touch on my skin badly.

We walked back over to the bonfire. We were alone. Liam’s friends went to play by the water.

“Tonight has been quite the adventure... I never thought my night out on the town would end up like this. You are something else, aren’t you?”, he said as I smiled towards him, blushing again.

“I’m going to take that as compliment.” Now that I think it better... every word coming for his mouth sounded like a compliment to me. He was to way good with words, I noticed. It almost sounded frightening on some way. And I don't know why I felt that way.

“Believe me, it is. Spending time with you tonight has been the most fun I’ve had this entire vacation.”

“I guess that means you haven’t really been enjoying yourself very much.” I pulled myself closer to him. We were so closer to each other. I could almost feel his shoulder touching mine.

“It’s been wonderful, but there’s something missing. I really wanted to do the one thing in particular while I was here...” I saw the longing in his eyes. That’s when I knew that I need to do something.

“And what is that?”, I asked him, intriguingly, then he looked straight into my eyes.

“It’s... well... you’re going to think it’s silly, but I’ve always wanted to see the Statue of Liberty... It wasn’t really the guys plan so we just never got around it. And now it’s my last day here... I don’t mean to sound ungrateful. It was thoughtful of my friends to throw me this bachelor party. They’ve done their best...”, then he stopped talking for one short moment. Something was bothering him. I could tell.

“... but I’m not in mood to celebrate” he sounded devastated. I saw some kind of sorrow deep in his eyes.

“Wait for a second, it’s your bachelor party?... Congratulations.” I looked down in the sand and pulled myself away from him. It felt like someone has just punched me in my stomach. Of course, the bachelor party! How did I forget about it? I wasn’t even thinking about it... I have totally forgot it. I felt stupid and sad. I even started falling for him...

“If you knew the whole story, you might not congratulate me so quickly”, he looked away.

And how is that? Please, explain.

“Oh?”

I looked up at him and saw sad smile on his face. He wasn’t happy. Why he wasn’t happy. I didn’t understand.

“I actually don’t know who I’m going to marry yet... only thing I’ll have to pick my fiance by the end of year.”

You don’t know who are you going to marry yet? Are you kidding me?

“What’s that supposed to mean?”

“The truth is Riley... I’m the Crown Prince of Cordonia.”

He was a prince. And I didn’t know about it. The entire time I was talking to a prince without knowing it. Even I kind of had a feeling... I didn’t expected to find something like this. I dragged him into freezing cold water. What was I thinking? Am I even allowed to talk to him?

“This doesn't change anything. I don’t care what your title is. You’re still the same guy I met earlier this evening... Caring, thoughtful. I have seen a lot of costumers come and go, but I’ve never seen any guy at his bachelor party be concerned about whether the waitress was having a good night.” I poured my heart out in front of him without realizing before it was too late.

“You don’t know how rare it is to hear someone say that. You’re the first one, in fact”, he smiled as he reached for my hands. My heart dropped by the touch of his skin. He liked what I said. I could tell. And I really meant it. Every word.

“It seems the more I talk to you, the more I like, Riley” The feeling was mutual.

“It’s strange... I’ve have know my whole life that I have to take up the duties of the monarchy. I always wandered how that shaped me, who I’ve might have been without the crown.”

“You could be anything, do anything. What drives you, Riley?” Well, that wasn't the hard question. My adventurous spirit.

“What I really want is to live every day to the fullest. Sure I’m only waiting tables now, but.. I like to make every day an adventure. You only get once chance at life, I want to make mine mean something.”

“That’s beautiful, Riley.” I saw in his eyes that he really meant it.

Looking out at the surf, I saw Maxwell, Tariq and Drake splashing in the water.

“Looks like your friends are having fun...”, I chuckled. And then suddenly I had an idea.

“Good. I’m happy for them. They deserve to have fun... Tomorrow it’s back to Cordonia for the start of the social season.”

“But it’s now tomorrow yet...”

“What are you suggesting, Riley?” I saw a sparkle in his eyes. A sparkle of excitement.

“You said you wanted to see the Statue of Liberty. Let’s do it! I know a place where we can catch a boat tour. Best view in town.”

“Right now? But It’s way past midnight. Won’t all the tours be closed?

“Oh...right. I forgot how late it’s gotten. In that case, you are lucky I can call in a favor.”

“A favor? And just like that, you can get us on a tour boat after midnight to see the Statue of Liberty?”

“Well, maybe a few favors, actually, but I do have some friends who owe me. Let’s go!”

“Right now?”

“It’s only getting later every minute we wait. It looks like the guys are busy enough. I bet they won’t even notice you’ve gone.”

“You’re not going to take no for answer, are you?”

“Nope.”

“Then I happily surrender your demands.” I saw a sparkle in his eyes. A sparkle of excitement.

I took my phone and start dialing some numbers. I smiled and took his hand in mine as we walked off the beach.

We went to the docks. Waiting for our boat to arrive.

“... And there we wait.”

“For?”

“A magical boat I’ve summoned just for you”, I said smiling.

“Now, I’m dying to know why you’re so eager to see the Statue of Liberty.”

But I already knew... It was obviously. And I was a good listener.

“Can’t you guess?”

“You want to see the Statue because she symbolizes freedom.”

“Freedom is something that I’ve always wanted. But I’ve always know that my role would require me to give up much of what I desire”, he explained.

“You’re the prince. Can’t you do what you want, at least some of the time?”

“As a member of the royal family, my actions reflect on my house and all of Cordonia. It’s something I’ve never been allowed to forget. No matter how badly I might want to.” He looked deeply at me for one long moment and then sadly looked away.

“Liam... “ Before I could finish my sentence I heard the blast of a horn.

“There is our ride!”, I said standing up to meet him.

The boat arrived and we stepped inside.

“Part of me didn’t think you’d pull this off”, he said.

Don't underestimate me.

“You didn’t think I could pull it off? You just don’t know me very well.”

Truth. And I don’t know you either. I would like to change that... Both.

“You are right. But I’d like to fix that. You’re fascinating, Riley. Why are you doing this for me?”

I saw a spark in his eyes again. He was happy. I make him happy. My heart wished for that to be true.

“I’m doing this because I love a good adventure. And this is going to be an amazing story to tell my friends about.”

And because I falling for you... More then you know.

“To be honest, no one’s ever done anything like this for me before.”

He took my hand in his. Our skin touched.

“Really? Come on, you are prince. I bet people do things for you all the time.”

“I do get all the perks of being royalty, but no one’s ever seen me as just... me. No one’s ever listened to me the way you do. No one’s ever come up with a spur-of-the-moment plan to make my dream come true.”

“Liam... I’m glad I could help.”

“You’re an amazing person.”

And so are you. I’m definitely falling for you...

In the distance, we saw the Statue of Liberty appear. He looked up at her then down at me with amazement.

“So, what do you think?”, I asked him.

“Magnificent. I’ve heard that art has meaning because of what makes the viewer feel. Whether it’s ink splatters on a canvas or the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel, it only matters if it moves you.”

You are moving me.

“And?”

“And right now, looking at this view with you, I feel like everything is possible.”

It felt like time has stopped. It was just him and me like we were the only two persons left in the whole world.

“Thank you for this moment, Riley.This feeling... this means more to me than you could ever know.”

“Liam...”

“I want you to know that I admire you. Your adventurous spirit. The way you follow your heart.”

“You can live that way too.”

“If only. My whole life I’ve prepared myself to do what’s the best for Cordonia.”

“Well, we’re not in Cordonia now...” I looked up to him. His eyes meet mine. He pulled closer to me as I drove him and kissed him deeply. He returned. He kissed me back. He ran his fingers through my hair. I pulled away. Breathless. My heart was jumping out of my chest.

“You’re full of surprises, aren’t you?”, he smiled satisfied.

“I try”, I chuckled as I was trying to find my way back to reality.

“I’m glad I’ve meet you, Riley. I will never forget this night”, he sound sincerely. And I believed him.

Mee too.

When I came back to my apartment, I took a long shower and then I went straight to bed. A few hours later, I caught myself staring at the ceiling, thinking about Liam and the kiss we shared that night. His kiss was sweet and gentle like I've imagined the first kiss would be even if it wasn't the first time I've kissed someone. I silenced thoughts in my mind and closed my eyes. The tiredness soon has consumed me. I felt asleep.

The next morning, when I woke up, I couldn’t stop thinking about the last night. About Liam. That night meant something to me. It was special. He was special and now I’m never gonna see him again. I got ready and went to work still thinking about him all the way, losing all my hope...

When I finally got there, as I walked up to the front door, I heard familiar voice calling my name. I stopped and turned to see. It was Maxwell. I was surprised to see him and a little bit happy too. A lot. Perhaps Liam was with him... I look to see around. But he wasn’t there. Of course he wasn’t. What the hell was I thinking of? He is a prince and I’m, well, me.

“Riley! Glad I caught you. We’re heading back to Cordonia so Liam can find someone to marry and all that jazz. But before I go, I wanted to officially extend to you an invitation to join us for the festivities in Cordonia”, he said with familiar funny loving smile on his face. I loved that smile.

You do... want what? Is this for real?

“You wouldn’t usually be allowed to join... but I wanted to sponsor you”, now his voice sounded serious. That’s when I knew he wasn’t joking.

But, sponsor me? What do you mean?

“Sponsor me?”, I asked confused. I was confused. It doesn’t happen every day for you to meet a real prince charming and the next day one of his friends comes on your front door asking to sponsor you. What actually that does mean?

“I’m from a noble house, but I don’t have any sister, so we don’t have anyone in contention to marry the Prince. Instead, we can sponsor any girl we choose. And you’re my pick”, he explained.

But why me? I’m just an ordinary girl trying to find her place in this words. What possible can I have that other girls don’t have?

“You want to sponsor me? Why?”

“I’m not doing it for you. I saw how Liam looked at you last night. I’ve never seen him so happy. Honestly? I don’t want him to lose that. We’re kinda crunched for time, though. I’ve go a plane leaving within the hour...”

Liam was happy last night... With me. He seen it too. I wasn’t imagine it. But wait...

Within the hour?!

“You’re moving a little fast, don’t you think?”, I said, annoyed.

How can I possible have an answer in such a short time? I need time to think it through.

“No time to waste. The opening Masquerade is tonight! It’s the start of the... uh,I guess I could say, it’s the start of the competition.”

Competition? What kind of competition? Just when I thought that this conversation can’t sounded more weird than already is.

“What do you mean?”, I asked him, confused again.

REALLY MAXWELL, WHAT DO YOU MEAN?!

“There’s a whole horde of gorgeous, rich, noblewomen vying to become Cordonia’s next queen. And it’s not just about winning the Prince’s hand. You’ve also got to prove to the council that you can rule Cordonia with him. But I think you’ve got what it takes. You’re witty and charming”, he explained as I sensed hope in his two last sentences.

Just what I needed to hear. Like I couldn’t feel more... smaller. Thanks a lot, Maxwell. Council? I’m definitely not ready for such thing. And I couldn’t imagine myself as queen. But thought of seeing Liam... It changed everything.

“Uh, thanks. So... a fancy Masquerade... and what else I am getting myself into?”

“Fun stuff I promise! You’ll get to go yachting in the Mediterranean, skiing in Alphs and dancing in the Royal Palace... Or, you know, you can stay here. Go back to your waitress gig with your crappy boss.That’s probably about as good.”

He does have a point. And it does sound fun... Even through I’m not quite sure about dancing. I have two left feet when comes to dancing. But what do I have to lose? And thought of me actually going to work today... And it doesn’t sound like me to run away from an adventure... I counted all the pros and cons I could remembered as I summoned all my courage and made a decision.

“I’m in”, I said determined. But I wasn’t...

Oh, boy. I’m willing putting myself in trouble... But I have to see him again. At least once again. I think he wants that to.

“Yeah! Go pack your bags. This is going to be the adventure of a lifetime!”, he was thrilled.

#royal romance #the royal romance #king #queen #new york #statue of liberty #liam #romance #love #game #book #moment #fanmade

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