#and Barty still loving his mom and wanting to make his dad proud | Explore Tumblr Posts and Blogs

flourishandblctts · 3 years

Text

Home || 𝓒edric 𝓓iggory

ɪ ᴀᴍ ᴛʀʏɪɴɢ ᴛᴏ ʀᴇᴍᴇᴍʙᴇʀ ʏᴏᴜ ᴀɴᴅ ʟᴇᴛ ʏᴏᴜ ɢᴏ ᴀᴛ ᴛʜᴇ ꜱᴀᴍᴇ ᴛɪᴍᴇ -ᴛʜᴇ ᴍᴏᴜʀɴ

There were countless nights you lay in your bed letting the duvet cover the cold from you but it never seems to leave you alone, you toss and turn and try to find the right spot to fall asleep but this voice that calls you over and over again it will always make you cry out for his name in the silence of the night.

Many have thought it would be easy to forget the boy who had the sun and stars around him, that in the room he lights up the whole atmosphere and he was someone you’d never forget crossing paths with, those smile, laugh, his voice and his grey eyes that reminds you of the moon.

The moon, the moon that you look up to every now and then it was cold outside but you couldn’t careless because that moon up in the sky brought tears in your eyes, shutting everything off around you as you close your eyes and try to reminiscent the days that had left you behind.

Suddenly opening your eyes you woke up in a familiar room, it smelt sweet and masculine at the same time, she was wrapped around a gray duvet and to her surprise she was wearing Cedric’s quidditch jumper she looked around and everything seemed normal as if he never left.

The door suddenly swung open revealing Cedric with his hair damped and a towel around the back of his neck as he wore a black shirt and gray sweatpants, his eyes met yours he instantly smiled seeing you awake “Good morning darling.” he plopped himself next to you and kissed both of your eyes and nose until he was kissing you all over your face causing you to giggle. You were lightly pushing him away but you enjoyed it when Cedric was like this and he just loves to shower you with all his love and affection he has for you. As he pushed you down to his bed and both your hands on his he looks down at you while that gorgeous smile never left his lips and his eyes shone like the moon at cold night. “Let’s come down everyone will be looking for us.” You nodded and he helped you up getting ready and he always love doing your hair ever since you taught him he likes doing your hair because he’s so proud he can do braids now. Standing in front of the mirror fixing your uniform Cedric stood behind you wrapping his arms around your waist as he placed his chin up top your head with a smile plastered on his face you looked up at him and just giggled at the sight of him like this.

The day went by but it felt surreal, was this even a dream the last time you check you were outside admiring the moon but you just woke up being in his room and him being completely here, next to you, talking to you, beside you, and now as the night comes he insisted you sleep beside him which you did. ‘if this was a dream I’d never want to wake up from it’ you thought to yourself and snuggled closer to Cedric as he moves closer to you and his arm tightly wrapped around you as it made you feel safe around him.

The sunlight crept in behind the curtains, afraid that it was all a dream afraid to turn around and see him gone and that you slept in the cold again. You turned only to see Cedric still asleep, his eyes shut and his lips slightly parted you admire him a small smile made it’s way to your face you traced his nose, eyebrows, cheek bones, and down to his lips. He suddenly grabbed your wrist which took you by surprised and he shot his eyes open laughing at your reaction “I have been awake I was just waiting for you, but I must say I loved how your traced my face baby.” He kissed your hand and pushed you back down to his bed the duvet covering both of you as it was going to be a long Saturday morning. The two of you decided to take a picnic outside he was carrying the basket while his other hand held your hands, you smiled at him as you both went to your spot which it was the one surrounded around roses he loved the smell the flowers produced and he told you roses reminds him of you because you love roses especially the pink ones. You suddenly remember when he was chasing after you before you two ever started dating he would leave pink roses for you until you said yes to him being his girlfriend. It was until everyone was gathered around the great hall you sat next to Cedric who seemed to be anxious about something “is there something wrong Ced?” You asked him placing a hand under his chin making him look up at you as your eyes meet he just shook his head and rubbing your shoulders up and down “It’s nothing love, I’m fine.” You didn’t want to believe but you just decided to let it go.

It wasn’t until Barty Crouch Sr. was talking beside Dumbledore, and you remember this was the Triwizard but you forgot who were in the games all you could remember was Fleur and Viktor being there, until it was time to announce who were going to participate in the games you zoned out trying to wrack your brain until it hits you-

“Cedric Diggory!” You cried out causing everyone to look at you at the sudden outburst even the rest of the professors looked at you as fear was written all over your face, “you can’t join! Take him out.” You begged but then another note came out and Professor Dumbledore took it in his hands “Harry Potter” this was happening again but you thought you can save Cedric this time, “Professor it’s a trap Harry isn’t in the right age someone might have done that!” You said and the great hall was completely silent but your pleas could be heard from where Viktor, Fleur and Cedric were. “She seems to upset over something Diggory.” Viktor said looking at Cedric who was both hurt and confuse at your reaction to him participating in the triwizard, he expected you’d support him instead of pleading the professor to take him out. Nothing worked you tried everything you could to take Cedric out of the triwizard but all you could do is make sure he was alright running up to him when he got burns from the dragon, not leaving his side making sure he was close to you it’s beginning again the nightmares. You sobbed from your pillow until it was soaked with your tears, you over slept and forgetting it was the 3rd task and Cedric was looking for you but you weren’t next to your friends Katie Bell and Angelina, you were nowhere to be seen. He even whispered next to his dad Amos Diggory.

“I haven’t seen her I just want to see her before the games.” Cedric said looking upset that the games might start and him not being able to see you first, in your dorm it was one of your dorm mates waking you up until you heard the canon shoot you suddenly bolted up, you mentally scolded yourself for crying all night and ended up being knocked out asleep you made your way sitting next to Katie and Angelina who looked at you “I overslept, where is he what’s going on?!” Your voice scared the two as you seem to be anxious over something “Y/n calm down it just started and Cedric was looking for you he asked for 15 minutes before the games start but they couldn’t wait any further more.” Katie said as she munch down at her chocolate frog and Angelina was eating Bertie Botts passing you one but you shook your head not feeling like eating and waiting for them to come out, Minutes pass your thoughts run wild and your heart thumping rather fast as Fleur was out and next was Viktor, he was still inside this made you even nervous if you should tell them or not because this had happened before and you don’t want to lose Cedric again. You jolted up and ran to Professor McGonagall and Professor Dumbledore, “something feels terrible inside the maze I’ve seen it before like a vision or a dream-” “Y/n the games is a dangerous one so please take a seat-” You didn’t like to be cut off but they should get it direct then “Cedric will die if you don’t take them out, Voldemort and the rest of the death eaters did this I know it, I’ve seen it so please take them both out of there.” You pleaded and everyone was looking at you for mentioning such to your own boyfriend’s death and Voldemort’s, Amos looked at you as if he believed you he went down and grabbed your arm but it wasn’t harsh rather gentle as he seem to be in disbelief “is this true? Please if it is take my son out.” Professor Dumbledore suddenly stood up but then the band started to play music causing you to turn your head and saw Cedric was alive and Harry who seemed to be happy that the two of them got the triwizard cup together.

Not wasting any time you ran to Cedric and he opened his arm as your body collided with his you let out your sobs and he was rocking you back and forth, he was warm and you felt his breathing on your neck as he kissed your temple whispering “it’s okay I’m here, I’m here.” He was here. Here with you around your arms.

“Darling please open your eyes, it’s time to come home.” You opened your eyes only to be greeted by the round full moon shining in front of you, you felt someone behind you-you turned to see Cedric’s ghost smiling at you like he always does when he sees you, walking closer to it but slowly it faded away into the cold night.

“It has been years and your still the one I love Diggory, you still have my heart.” You said to yourself but realize a yellow and gray scarf was wrapped around you but it only made you smile because this was his scarf that you never gave to him but he loves it when you wear his clothes.

In the morning, your daughter was getting ready for her to return to Hogwarts she had dark brown hair and gray eyes a striking similarity to Cedric it was no lie that she is Cedric Diggory’s daughter she was in Hufflepuff like her dad and she was the seeker of her quidditch team, everything she was is very similar to her father. “Ready to go honey?” she stood up and took her trunk walking to Kings Cross and through platform 9 and 3/4 she saw her friends as he waved at them you smiled at the sight of your daughter who made many friends like Cedric did as well, she turned to you and ran up and hugged you tight.

“Take care mom, I’ll see you in the holidays and I promise to write back.” She spoke rather fast as she was out of breath, you pushed her curls back and kissed her forehead. “I love you more sweetie, don’t do anything that will cause me to have a letter about your behavior.” Both of you laughed soon after the train was off and you watched her go, “You’d be so happy to see her Cedric.” You wrapped yourself with the yellow and gray scarf around you and walked out heading to work, as usual. The life you lived on after Cedric’s gone.

the gif is not mine, credits to the owner.

#cedric diggory #cedric diggory imagine #cedric diggory oneshot #harry potter imagine #hp #harry potter #harrypotter #harry potter x reader #goblet of fire #hogwarts #triwizard champions #triwizard tournament #yule ball

26 notes · View notes

camillemontespan · 4 years

Text

ten years from now [AU. drake walker x camille montespan] [final chapter: the good life]

Master List

Thank you so so much for reading this series! I’ve loved all your feedback and support, it means so much. This is the final chapter and I hope you enjoy this. I certainly enjoyed writing it.

I know this series has been under the radar- certainly not as popular as A Kingdom Divided or The History of Us. But I haven’t minded in the slightest - I’ve enjoyed writing this AU and it’s been great having something to focus on during lockdown. I decided to finish this series on this chapter as I am now working full time in a temp job which leaves me exhausted when I get home so I feel it is time to finish Ten Years From Now with this.

@ibldw-main @pug-bitch @jovialyouthmusic @katedrakeohd @rainbowsinthestorm @emichelle @dcbbw @sirbeepsalot @notoriouscs @burnsoslow @marshmallowsaremyfavorite @gardeningourmet @pedudley @marshmallowsandfire @princessleac1 @kingliam2019 @drakeandkatherine ***********************************************

ten years later

The day was promising to bring the heat. The air smelled of peaches and suncream. The sound of laughter and barking mingled together, creating the special atmosphere that only the 4th of July could have.

Drake examined the burgers on the barbeque, making sure they were cooked.

‘Five minutes till the burgers are ready guys!’ he called out.

His daughters looked up to give him wide, beaming smiles before returning to play with their labrador, Clover - named after her predecessor. The dog barked happily as Lily tossed her a ball while Luna clapped her hands, laughing as Clover bolted to catch it.

Drake smiled and set to work on the hot dogs. He was making a feast today; Bianca, Savannah and Bartie were visiting for the celebrations and as the King of 4th of July, Drake was determined to make this year the best year yet.

He said that every year.

‘Hey you.’

Drake looked over his shoulder to find his wife, Camille, coming out of the house. She wore a white t-shirt, denim shorts and was barefoot. Placed on her head was her favourite white fedora. She looked happy and glowing.

‘Hey beautiful,’ he greeted her, gesturing for her to cuddle him. She wrapped her arms around him, smiling as Drake pressed a kiss on top of her head.

‘How’s the food looking?’ she asked. ‘I’ve prepared the sangria as I know your mom adores sangria, there’s wine chilling in the fridge and whiskey is on standby, ready for you when you finish your chef duties.’

Drake chuckled. ‘You really do know how to look after me.’

Camille raised an eyebrow, smiling at him mischievously. ‘Says the man who looked after me this morning.’

Drake blushed at the memory of earlier that morning, tangled in the bedsheets, his head between Camille’s thighs as her fingers gripped hold of the back of his head, her moans loud enough for only Drake to hear.

Camille gave him a wink and left him to play with their family, the Texas air blowing the scent of her coconut shampoo and Chanel perfume towards him.

Peaches, suncream, coconut and Chanel.

Drake’s favourite scents.

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

The past ten years had been a decade of joy, peace, love, sadness, grief and hardship. That was life. Nothing was perfect but for Drake and Camille, they certainly tried their best to make it so.

They lived with their two daughters and dog in the house that Drake had found after Camille broke down about budgets and future plans. He knew when he had seen it online that it was the house for them. When he stepped through the front door with the estate agent, he took in the light, airy rooms, the fireplace in the living room, the kitchen island, the outside space, and his feelings were confirmed.

Even better, it was only five minutes away from the Walker ranch.

Drake and Camille had moved in a few months later, excited to start decorating. They spent their days painting the nursery yellow, admiring the way the sunlight glowed against the walls, and they spent their nights out on the garden terrace, Camille setting her feet on Drake’s lap as he massaged them.

Lily was born on the 5th September. When Drake held her in his arms, he knew he would never breathe easy again; all he felt in that first moment was a wave of overwhelming protectiveness. As Camille rested, Drake cradled his newborn daughter, whispering to her about her new life. ‘You’ll be so loved,’ he reassured her. ‘Your life will be filled with sunshine and I’ll teach you how to camp, make s’mores and you’ll learn about the stars in the sky.’

He couldn’t believe that he and Camille had come this far. From best friends to strangers to lovers to partners; they had travelled every part of the relationship spectrum.. Except for one.

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

Drake aged 28, Camille aged 27

Camille sat out on the terrace with Lily on her lap, holding the five day old baby close. She held a daisy in her hand and was showing it to Lily as the baby reached out to stroke it.

‘You’re as pretty as this flower,’ Camille cooed, kissing Lily on the cheek. ‘My pretty flower, Lily.’

Lily gurgled, transfixed by the flower.

‘There’s my girls,’ Drake said, coming out to the terrace. Camille smiled up at him, letting him kiss her softly on the forehead. Drake sat down on the chair beside her, watching Camille and Lily play with the flower.

His heart was pounding now. The box in his pocket felt heavy, a weight he needed to take off his person and put on Camille’s finger instead; if she would have it.

Drake cleared his throat. ‘I need to ask you something,’ he said, his voice cracking.

Camille eyed him. ‘Daddy has to ask me something,’ she whispered in Lily’s ear. ‘Sounds serious..’

Drake smiled at her teasing. Camille grinned and adjusted Lily on her lap. ‘What’s up?’ she asked.

Drake swallowed. Without a word, he got up from his seat and sank down on one knee, keeping his eyes fixed on Camille. She was staring down at him, realisation dawning on her face. Lily was still playing with the flower.

Camille’s eyes were wide. ‘Drake..’ she whispered, her voice hitching. ‘What are you doing-’

Drake took the velvet box out of his pocket and opened it, showing Camille the topaz engagement ring that had belonged to his grandmother. Camille let out a breath, clapping one hand to her mouth as tears filled her brown eyes. Drake smiled softly.

‘We’ve been through so much,’ he said, trying to stop his voice from wavering but failing. ‘We lost each other for ten years. I don’t wanna lose you again. You’re my best friend, my partner, the mother of my child. I need you to be my wife. I need you to be mine and for me to be yours. I want to make this official. I want to call you my wife, I want you to wear this ring and I want you to be by my side forever. Right now, I’m the happiest I’ve ever been. It’s all because of you. So.. Camille, will you marry me?’

Tears slid down her face as she nodded silently. She held out her hand to Drake. ‘Yes,’ she croaked. ‘Yes, yes, yes.’

Drake let out a deep breath, mixed with a grateful laugh, and he slid her ring on her finger. It fit perfectly and gleamed in the sunlight. The light caught Lily’s eye and she reached out to stroke it; she was clearly a magpie for pretty things. ‘Gaaaah..’ she gurgled.

Camille cried as she laughed. ‘It’s beautiful, isn’t it Lily?’

Drake grinned and pulled Camille and Lily gently into him, kissing Camille hard before taking Lily into his arms and holding her close.

He was never letting his family go.

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

‘Are we making s’mores later, dad?’ Lily asked, wandering over to Drake as he placed the burgers on a plate.

‘Course we are, baby,’ Drake told her, giving her a warm smile. ‘Wouldn’t be 4th of July without them.’

Lily grinned and started to help him plate up the hotdogs. She was like her mother; always the perfect hostess even though she was only ten years old.

The plan for today was to have a barbeque at Drake and Camille’s, before the family went to the ranch to let off fireworks by the lake. Lily and Luna were particularly excited for the fireworks; Drake had raised them to be true Walkers.

‘Hey my beautifuls!’ Bianca called, coming through the door with Camille, Savannah and Bartie close behind. Lily and Luna rushed over to their grandmother, barrelling into her to give her hugs. Savannah passed Drake a dish of macaroni cheese, eyeing the hotdogs and burgers.

‘Dad would be so proud of you right now,’ she told him, smiling. ‘What a feast!’

‘More to come!’ Drake warned her. ‘Camille made Mississippi mud pie.’

Ten minutes later, the Walkers were sat around the wooden table, toasting their glasses together and tucking into the food that Drake had prepared. Luna snuggled into Drake, happily eating her hotdog in comfortable silence. She was the quietest Walker but also, at five years old, the most intriguing. Drake often wondered what she thought about in that beautiful mind of hers.

Lily was telling Bianca about her girl band that she had formed in the playground with her friends, Harper and Violet. They had plans to achieve world domination but only if Violet overcame her stage fright. ‘It’s not looking good, grandma..’ she said mournfully.

Drake saw Camille looking sadly at the empty chair at the bottom of the table. It had been set, as always, for the one person who couldn’t be there.

Gisele.

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

Drake aged 33; Camille aged 32

Drake didn’t want to tell her. He didn’t know how. He couldn’t.

Bianca had just phoned him with the worst news possible. Between her hiccups, haggered breaths and sobs, she had managed to tell Drake that she had found Gisele in her bed that morning, unable to wake up.

Camille’s grandmother had passed away during the night.

He found Camille in Lily’s bedroom, playing dollhouse with the five year old. ‘So daddy is making breakfast,’ Lily was saying, ‘and mommy is in the garden with the daughter...’

‘Is there a baby doll to add to this family?’ Camille asked. ‘Since you will be having a sister soon..’

Lily shook her head. ‘I don’t have a baby doll,’ she said sadly, ‘so the baby will have to be the pet dog too.’

Camille laughed and continued to play with the little dolls in the dollhouse. Drake cleared his throat, making her turn to look up at him, her eyes dancing with joy.

‘Hi honey!’

Drake winced. ‘Baby.. I need to talk to you.’

Alarmed, Camille left Lily to play and followed Drake out of the room, closing the door behind her. ‘What’s wrong?’ she asked, taking his hand. ‘You look like you’re going to be sick.’

He sighed. ‘I’m so sorry,’ he whispered, his voice cracking. ‘My mom just called.. It’s your grandma, Camille..’

He didn’t have to say the words. She knew what he meant instantly. He watched as the joy left her eyes and her face turned pale.

‘No..’ she said. ‘No, no, no-’

Her eyes filled with tears and her face crumpled. Drake pulled her into him, holding her as tightly as he could as she wept. She clutched onto his denim shirt, her tears soaking through the material.

‘I’m so sorry baby..’ he murmured. ‘I’m so fucking sorry.’

The door opened.

Lily peeped out, her eyes filled with fear as she listened to her mother, who was always so full of joy and sunshine, cry her heart out.

‘Mommy..’ she whispered. Drake reached out to take Lily’s hand, guiding her towards them. He slowly let go of Camille as Lily replaced him, wrapping her arms around her mother’s legs. Camille let out an anguished sob and sank down to wrap Lily into a tight embrace, holding onto her daughter for dear life.

Lily rested her head against Camille’s baby bump. The baby kicked gently, as if to say she was there too. Camille wasn’t alone. Even though her treasured grandmother had left this life, Camille had her girls and her husband. Even as she cried, she knew that.

She was grateful.

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

The Walkers went to the ranch a few hours later as the sun began to set. Armed with boxes of fireworks, Drake and Camille talked happily as their daughters ran along the dirt road to the ranch. Bianca and Savannah followed, arguing goodnaturedly.

As soon as they arrived, Drake instantly went to work setting up the fireworks. Bianca laid out pitchers of sangria while Camille helped Savannah put up the American flag bunting. Lily and Luna sat down on the jetty, looking up at the emerging stars in the sky. Luna rested her head on Lily’s shoulder, content to be beside her older sister looking up at the stars.

‘I wanna see the fireworks,’ she mumbled.

‘Soon,’ Lily assured her. ‘Dad’s getting them set up.’

Luna smiled, satisfied.

They watched as their mom walked towards Drake with the plastic crown in her hands. Drake let out a deep laugh, bowing his head so Camille could place the crown on his head.

‘Dad’s the King of the 4th of July,’ Lily said, smiling lazily.

‘The best king,’ Luna agreed.

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

‘Did you see that?!’ Drake hollered, pointing up at the firework that erupted overhead. ‘What a beauty!’

Lily and Luna jumped up and down, whooping and cheering. Savannah and Bartie oohed and ahhed at the pink, yellow and blue fireworks that lit up the night sky. Camille and Bianca stood behind them with their arms wrapped around each other’s shoulders, laughing at Drake’s excitement. The fireworks reflected on his crown, illuminating his features. His eyes were crinkled up in the corners as he smiled widely. He was in his element. He was happy and vibrant and alive.

Drake was the undisputed King of the 4th of July.

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

Later, Drake, Camille and their daughters settled down to sit on the jetty. Lily snuggled into Camille, wearing her mom’s fedora with style. Luna sat on Drake’s lap; he wrapped his arms around his youngest daughter, resting his chin on her head as he looked out onto the water.

The jetty had been his favourite place. It still was.

Once it had been a place for Drake and Camille to play together. Then it had become the place where they had lost their innocence to each other as the sun set down on them, casting their bare skin in a golden glow. It had been the place where Drake drank whiskey, celebrating life moments and drowning his sorrows. It had been the place where he and Camille reunited, sharing desperate kisses as they proved their love to each other.

The jetty was now his daughter's place. Lily and Luna spent every summer leaping from it, squealing with delight as they jumped into the lake. They read their books on the jetty and told their secrets to each other. Their skin turned darker as they spent countless hours under the hot sun, enjoying the privacy of the jetty and the stillness of the lake.

So much had happened in ten years and yet the jetty remained unchanged. It would stand for ten years more, and then another decade, welcoming new Walkers to spend their precious time on the wooden boards.

Drake smiled to himself. He felt complete. This was all he needed; his family. He couldn’t wait to see what the next ten years would bring but he hoped he would see more of the good life.

Endless Texas summers. Peaches and suncream. Sunshine and happiness.

#drake x camille

45 notes · View notes

msjr0119 · 4 years

Text

We Belong

Part 11 - Heaven (continued)

Evangeline Bruley returns to Cordonia to take over her families Duchy. She was betrothed to the now King, however he is engaged to Duchess Riley but still has lingering feelings towards his first love. What will happen during her time back in Cordonia?

Just using combined tag list- if you want to be removed just let me know 😊

@pedudley @kacie-0156 @loveellamae @annekebbphotography @burnsoslow @ladyangel70 @kingliam2019 @bbrandy2002 @butindeed @bascmve01 @drakewalker04 @captain-kingliamsqueen @duchessemersynwalker @kozabaji @texaskitten30 @ibldw-main @kimmiedoo5 @nikkis1983 @gnatbrain @walker7519 @lodberg @cmestrella @hopefulmoonobject @addictedtodrakefanfic @angi15h @liamxs-world @rafasgirl23415 @notoriouscs @yukinagato2012 @dcbbw @qammh-blog @nz1091 @cordonianroyalty @custaroonie @seriouslybadchoices @rainbowsinthestorm @princess-geek @jared2612 @desiree---1986 @gardeningourmet @twinkle-320 @queenjilian @forthebrokenheartedthings-blog @princessleac1 @scarletreesex

Warnings: Drama sorry not in this chapter 😉...FLUFF! What is wrong with me? I never do a full chapter of fluff, now I’ve done two 🤣, swearing, matchmaking friends 🙌🏼, smut.

This parts in two parts- click the continue link at the bottom to finish the part off 😊

Characters belong to Pixelberry apart from OC’s; Duchess Evangeline Bruley and Duke Tobias Farbridge.

*****

Drake and Evie woke up the following morning. Both feeling content in each other’s presence.

“Morning.” Drake said as he stretched his arms. They had a slight bit of cramp in them as he held Evie tenderly all night.

“Good morning. Thank you for staying.”

“No need to thank me, Evie.”

“Can I plait your hair now?” Smirking at him, she saw the horror written across his face.

“No chance! We’re not kids now. I only let you two mess with my hair and paint my nails because you ganged up on me. I was thinking....”

“Thinking about when you’ll allow us to do it again?” She laughed before seeing the serious expression he was providing her.

“No. We have time to go to the graves before the bachelor and bachelorette parties later.”

“That’s today? It slipped my mind!” Fuck I need to go to the hospital.

“Yeah, I mean you don’t have to go- Savannah won’t be offended. But I have no choice. Shoot me now.”

“I’d rather not shoot you. Quick get out of bed then, we have a busy day.”

*****

Arriving at the graveyard, luckily they were all buried near each other. When the two of them rushed out of bed, they quickly wrote a letter each; one for Jackson and one for Evie’s parents. On route, the stopped by a shop and bought a teddy each as well as a balloon.

Jackson Walker, beloved husband and father to Drake and Savannah.

“Hey, Dad. I hope you’re up there still looking down on us all. Sav is getting married tomorrow, I hope you’ll be there with her on her big day. Bartie looks the spitting image of you everyday that goes by. The main reason for me coming today, was to let you know that you was going to be a grandfather again. However life didn’t work out that way- I hope you are looking after mine and Evie’s baby, no dipping it’s pacifier in the whiskey though! No wonder I took a liking to the brown liquid.” Evie placed her hand on his shoulder, laughing at Jackson’s antics- before kneeling next to him, intertwining her fingers with his. This little gesture gave him the encouragement to continue.

“I miss you so much Dad, I hope I am making you proud- even though I have made some mistakes. If I do anymore please give me a kick up the ass. I love you, I always will do.” Placing the teddy bear on the grave, along with the fresh flowers he had bought in memory of his father- he wiped away the tears that were rolling down his cheek.

“My little baby, I’m so sorry I couldn’t protect you or your Mom. I am going to feel guilty for the rest of my life. I keep imagining what you’d have been like- obviously you’d have got your mom’s looks, and quite possibly her intelligence. But I’d have taught you skills that you need to know; including how to make s’mores. You can’t beat s’mores. I love you, I always will do.” Standing up, Evie pulled him into a hug. They lingered there for a while before making their way to her parents graves.

Duke Alexander Bruley and Duchess Michaela Bruley. Parents to Evangeline, both sadly missed.

“Hey you two. I bet you are ready to berate me. I can’t help it if danger likes to follow me. Surely? I’m just like a magnet. So Liam got married, Savannah and Duke Bertrand are getting married tomorrow. I know how you loved weddings Mother. When my time comes to get married, I hope that you are both there with me- in spirit. I wish you could walk me down the aisle father. Drakes here with me, you know the spare heir to our Duchy. I bet he’s glad that I survived.” Playfully nudging him, he held her. “Myself and Drake started a relationship, and I was pregnant. We lost our baby, but we hope that the both of you as well as Jackson are looking after your grandchild for us both. I miss you both so much. I wish I could just spend five minutes with the two of you if god gave us that chance.” Drake kissed her on the forehead, as she fought back the tears.

“To my little angel, I’m so sorry for not being there for you. For not protecting you like a mother should do. Daddy and I love you, we always will do. If you was a girl, you’d have been treat like a princess. If you was a boy, Daddy would have insisted on turning you into a Boy Scout before you could walk. Between myself, Daddy and Auntie Savannah we would have smothered you with love and attention. I love you.” Placing another teddy bear next to her parents grave, the two of them held on to the balloon before releasing it together.

“Thank you for doing this.”

“We both needed this closure, Drake. It was a sweet idea.”

“I better get to the palace, do you need a lift anywhere?”

“Could you drop me off home, I better find something to wear for tonight.”

“Of course I can.” Holding hands, they both slowly walked back to Drakes truck.

Do you think they’ll work things out?

Jackson you know as well as we do, that was the main reason you helped us get her out of that arrangement.

Yes and we are forever grateful for that, Jackson you knew before anyone did- they were too close to be just friends.

*****

Evie arrived at the hospital. She decided to go to there then straight to Ramsford for the bachelorette party. Spending as little time at home as she was on a tight schedule.

“Duchess Evangeline, it’s good to see you. If you are ready- please follow me into my office.” Evie nodded as she followed Dr Hussain.

“How are you feeling?”

“Fine considering I was stabbed and had a miscarriage.” Raising her eyebrows at the doctor, he gulped- he knew she would find out one day and was now regretting that this day had finally arrived.

“I’m sorry for the deceit Duchess Evangeline. The king and Duchess Olivia didn’t want to hurt your feelings. I went against hospital protocol and I feel awful for it. Do you have any questions regarding that or the wound?”

“Why did I miscarry? Was it due to that?”

“There are many reasons why women miscarry...”

“So it wasn’t due to me being stabbed?”

“Not necessarily.”

“Can I have children in the future?”

“I don’t see any problem as to why you won’t be able to conceive in the future. But if you do, I would suggest that you come in for regular scans. Are you planning on becoming pregnant soon?”

“No. I just wanted to know.”

“Would it be okay to have a scan now and have a look at your wound?” Evie nodded, attempting to hold the tears back.

*****

Bertrand and the men all met at a local bar in the capitol, he wasn’t one to let loose- but the men, especially Leo - had got the Duke drunk very quickly.

“Drake... I ... loveee your sister ... so much... I’m going... to look after her.... don’t you worry.”

“Good, because if not...”

“I know... you’ll beat the shit .. out of me...” Bertrand responded in between hip cupping.

“No, Bertrand. I’ll just never trust you again.” Leo and Drake assisted the Duke to sit down, as they did Bertrand was swaying before being sick all down himself.

“Liam get him some coffee, or he’s never going to make it to the wedding. And for a treat for the rest of us, I have a surprise. I’d like to introduce you to Brandy.”

“Leo, you know you’re the only single one here. I’d like to keep my bollocks thank you.” Liam smirked at his older brother.

“Drakes single too. C’mon you miseries- it’s bachelor night tradition to have a stripper!”

Drake shook his head, those words were technically true- he was single. But he wouldn’t do that to Evie.

“I might be ‘single’ but I don’t want to see another woman naked infront of me.” Liam pulled Drake to the side, as Leo looked frustrated at all the loyal men.

“Is everything okay?”

“Yeah why wouldn’t it be?”

“I heard that you slept at Evie’s last night...”

“I’m still in the doghouse Li. I don’t know if she will ever forgive me. We went to our parents graves today- sent a balloon up to the sky for the baby. Everything just hurts so much. I’m jealous of what you and Riley have- we could have had that if I didn’t fuck up.”

“Evie will come around. Why don’t you and I take Bertrand back? Did Savannah leave anything last night by the way?” I know she did, I just want to know why you haven’t mentioned it.

“Why would she leave anything?”

“Nevermind.”

*****

Evie arrived at Ramsford later than expected, out of breath she announced her presence as she barged through the door- all the women gawking at her as if she had grown ten heads. Savannah smiled softly at her.

“About time! Where the fuck have you been?” Olivia snapped at her, before pulling her in for a hug.

“Ouch! Why have you got daggers on you? It’s a bachelorette party! And I’ve been at the hospital- you know checking that the miscarriage was fully over- the miscarriage that you all kept from me.”

“Evie, I’m sorry. We didn’t know what to do.”

“It’s fine. I’m here now.” Riley overheard the conversation, feeling guilty that she was carrying a healthy baby.

“Hey.”

“Hey look at you... what are you feeding my niece or nephew?”

“Your niece is craving anything and everything.”

“It’s a girl?” Riley nodded, Evie bent down to Riley’s growing bump. “Hey darling, it’s auntie Evie here. We are going to have to convince your parents to call you Evie- what do you think?”

“I think you’re delusional, they are calling her Olivia!” The three women stood together talking about potential names for the future crown princess. Kiara and Penelope joined in, Evie suddenly felt an awkward situation occurring.

“Bonjour Evangeline, how are you doing? I’m so sorry about what happened.”

“Je vais bien merci d'avoir demandé. Tu n'es pas en colère contre moi Es-tu?”

Kiara pulled her in for a hug, no one knew what Evie had said apart from Kiara.

“Pourquoi serais-je en colère contre toi? Parce que je suis tombé amoureux de Drake. Il était à toi avant. Je ne veux pas que cela affecte notre amitié.”

“Myself and Drake would have never worked out, he was clearly in love with you all this time. I’m not angry. It’s not going to affect our friendship.” The women around them now were grateful for Kiara speaking English for once- now they understood what the conversation was about between the two intellectual women.

Savannah joined the circle, explaining that they were all going to have a pampering session.

“How are you feeling about tomorrow Duchess Beaumont to be?”

“Evie, I’m shitting myself. But it’s my day. I’ve been waiting for this day to come for ages. I wanted to ask you something...” Evie waited for her to elaborate, assuming it was going to be Savannah’s way of digging for gossip after she left abruptly last night.

“Will you be my maid of honor? We’ve always been like sisters in my eyes. You looked after me as if I was your younger sister. All my favourite memories are of us two, especially when we bullied Drake.”

“I haven’t got a dress?”

“I bought you one incase you said yes. It’s upstairs.”

“I’d love to be your maid of honor Sav.” Savannah’s eyes lit up, feeling relieved that she had accepted.

The night went by, the women socialised drinking mocktails- So Riley didn’t feel left out. As the women left one by one, there was only Savannah and Evie left- they took the opportunity to try the dress on. Luckily it was a perfect fit, flaunting all Evie’s assets.

“You look beautiful Evie!”

“I’ll second that.” Turning around, she saw Drake stood in the threshold.

“What are you doing here?” Savannah asked her brother, hoping he had heard her as his eyes were locked onto Evie.

“I came to inform you that Bertrand has passed out, but don’t worry. Luckily he didn’t get chance to see the stripper that Leo had organised.”

“I hope you didn’t either Drake!”

“Why? He’s single.” Evie said in a stern voice.

“That’s what Leo said, you don’t need to remind me Evie.”

“I’ll leave you both alone for a bit.” Savannah smiled at the two of them, hoping this wasn’t going to be the second wedding where neither was talking to each other.

“I’m sorry for snapping at you. I didn’t mean it in a nasty way.”

“Evie, we aren’t all like Leo. You should know that from my eighteenth.”

“When I offered for us all to be your strippers...” Drake nodded, before they both began laughing at the memory.

“I’ll see you tomorrow beautiful.” Drake didn’t want to leave her, if anything he wanted to scoop her up in his arms and stay with her again. As he left Evie looked at herself in the mirror, beautiful- the way he said that word pulled on her heart strings.

*****

Evie had decided to stay the night at Ramsford due to her new role with the wedding, getting up early- she prepared Savannah a champagne style breakfast.

“Aw Evie, you’ve done all this for me?”

“You have to start off your wedding day in style Sav! Eat up, then I’ll do your hair and make up like old times.” They did as they planned, Evie assisted Savannah into her lacy dress before exiting the room to get ready herself.

“You look beautiful princess.. I’m sorry I can’t be there to walk you down the aisle. I know Drake will be the proud big brother doing this role. I love you Sav.”

“Dad?”

“I’ll be there with you on your special day. I love you....”

“I love you too.” Crying as she looked at herself in the mirror, she was glad that Evie used waterproof mascara.

“You look beautiful Sav. Are you ready?” Drake asked as he walked into the room, Evie following shortly after. Turning to face her brother and maid of honor she noticed how Drake had his arm around her waist.

“Wow look at you two. Drake you look dashing, and Evie- are you trying to upstage me?” Pulling the two of them in for a hug, she whispered to the two of them that she loved them both.

“I’m ready to become Mrs Beaumont. With my two favourite people beside me. Let’s go!”

*****

“I now pronounce you man and wife, Duke and Duchess of Ramsford.” Liam said with a grin, before cheers erupted throughout the room. Bertrand lent down kissing his bride, his new wife with passion- he wasn’t sure if it was Savannah that had flooded his senses making him feel drunk or if he was actually still drunk from the previous nights antics.

During the ceremony, Evie sat in between Drake and Maxwell- towards the end of the ceremony Drake placed his hand into hers.

“You’re going to have competition now, with who’s the most beautiful Duchess in Cordonia.” He whispered into her ear. “I was going to compliment you on how handsome you look- but I’ve changed my mind.”

“I take it back, there’s no competition. It’ll always be you.”

“It better be too. I think you’re needed for family photos, I’ll see you at the reception.”

*****

The guests all gathered around for speeches, all praising the newly married couple. Afterwards the guests mingled with each other, Drakes eyes watched Evie’s every movement- Liam noticed and shook his head.

“Why are you sat with us? Go and speak to her.”

“I don’t know what you are talking about your Majesty.”

“Drake, your eyes are following Evie around. Why not make your legs do that too?”

“Okay agent bossy pants!”

“Queen bossy pants, Walker. Do as I command. You don’t want to piss off a pregnant Queen!”

“Your majesties, I hate you both right now, because you are both right. I need to talk to her.” Liam pat him on the shoulder, providing him with an encouraging smile. Handing him a whiskey, Liam knew that his friend was cutting down on alcohol- but knew he would need a bit of Dutch courage. Drake ambled towards Evie, Olivia and Bastien after doing a detour via the DJ. It’s just Evie, you love her- you know she has some love for you. Stop being a nervous wreck.

“Drake, take a seat son.”

“Thanks Bastien, but I just wanted to talk to Evie....” The three of them waited for him to continue, but the words failed to escape from his lips.

“Walker come on she hasn’t got all night. Just spit it out.” Gulping, he took a deep breath.

“Duchess Evangeline, may I have this dance?” Holding his hand out to her, she smiled- standing up he placed his arm around her waist as he guided her towards the dance floor.

“There’s no music yet. We look idiots stood here. You’re smiling, a lot more than usual. What’s up?”

“I requested the next song- I hope you like it, the lyrics mean something to me, to us. Hopefully you’ll understand. It’s my sisters wedding day, even though I’m not thrilled with her choice- Bertrand has stepped up though. He makes her happy, so the protective big brother is happy.”

Oh thinkin' about all our younger years

There was only you and me

We were young and wild and free

Now nothin' can take you away from me

We've been down that road before

But that's over now

“I hope that roads over now, Evie I hope that you’ll forgive me?” Looking into her eyes, she noticed sorrow and hope. Cupping his cheek, she provided him with a smile.

“I already have done. I just don’t want to rush into things like we did before and for it to fuck up.”

“It’s not going to, you are my priority. I don’t have to look after Sav now. Just you and I. I don’t want anything to take you away from me again.”

You keep me comin' back for more

Baby, you're all that I want

When you're lyin' here in my arms

I'm findin' it hard to believe

We're in heaven

And love is all that I need

And I found it there in your heart

It isn't too hard to see

We're in heaven

Even though it was Savannah’s and Bertrand’s day, everyone gathered around watching the two of them slowly dance, whispering to each other as they gazed lovingly into each other’s eye.

“Congratulations baby.” Bianca interrupted the silence.

“Thank you Bianca.” Ignoring her mother’s presence, she focused her gaze towards her brother instead.

“That’s no way to speak to your mother.”

“I will speak to you how I like. You are lucky that Liam allowed you to come. You are not ruining my day. You are not going to mess mine or Drakes lives up anymore. Have a look at your son, MOM. He is trying his hardest to get his rebuild relationship after all the hurt you caused. Can’t you see how much he loves her?”

“He may love her darling, but she’s not right for him...”

“She is perfect for him... I’ve never seen him smile this much...”

“He did with Riley...” Maxwell interrupted whilst overhearing the conversation. Savannah gave him a stern look, encouraging him to change the subject. “Why don’t we all go and join them. Turn this song to the more upbeat type, the DJ Sammy version- have a dance-off?”

“No, leave them to have this dance alone. Don’t you agree Duchess Savannah?” Liam stood along side Savannah, placing a comforting arm around her waist- whilst sternly looking at Bianca. He was ready to defend anyone that Bianca came in contact with - hoping that his kindness wouldn’t be taken advantage of.

“Yes, your Majesty. Leave my brother and Evie to have this dance. Mom, if you want to make amends- get help. Prove that you want to change, before you lose everyone and everything. Evie is potentially going to be your daughter in law one of these days.” Everyone looked at Savannah wondering what she knew, she wouldn’t bring that up without a reasoning. “Accept the fact that your son loves her and forget this vendetta. The only person that has been in the wrong all these years is you- no one else.” Bianca felt all eyes on her for a split second, before they reverted to Drake and Evie. The guard took her to the nearest table to sit down, offering her a drink of water.

“Who are you?” Bianca jumped, believing her imagination was playing tricks on her. Being sober, this scared the shit out of her. “You are not the woman I fell in love with. That woman would be encouraging her son to be happy with the woman he has always loved.

“You knew? All this time...”

“Yes, I knew a few days before I left you all. He will never forgive you if he lost her. Michaela and Alexander have forgiven you. Evie has forgiven you for everything. As our beautiful daughter said, make amends.... before it’s too late...”

“Jackson....”

“Do the right thing Bi... I need you to... you owe it to everyone..until we meet again, my love.”

And love is all that I need

And I found it there in your heart

It isn't too hard to see

We're in heaven

Oh once in your life you find someone

Who will turn your world around

Bring you up when you're feelin' down

“You’ve been in my life all these years, every time I’m with you- you bring my smile out. I’ll wait an eternity to get what to what we was, if you want that.” Drake whispered to Evie, he knew he was potentially sounding desperate with everything he was saying, but he needed her to know that he was committed to them both.

Yeah nothin' could change what you mean to me

Oh there's lots that I could say

But just hold me now

'Cause our love will light the way

Twirling her around effortlessly, she turned back to face him- standing on her tip toes, she pulled him towards her and kissed him on the lips in a small yet warm smooth. Sparks flew in every direction, and the world slowly disappeared around them. Hoping that this kiss was the beginning of all of their worries and troubles becoming distant memories, possibly starting a fresh. Their lips were moving in perfect sync, breaking the kiss- they turned to face everyone who were silently cheering them, all wearing the same smile as if it was a reflection from a mirror. His hands returned towards her waist; pulling her closer, as he lent down for another kiss - this time it was deeper, more passionate. Unexpectedly he lift her in the air, as he spun them around- holding her tightly, she held on to him tightly before he put her back down onto the ground. Wrapping his arms around her again, she rest her head onto his chest as they began to sway to the music.

And baby, you're all that I want

When you're lyin' here in my arms

I'm findin' it hard to believe

We're in heaven

Yeah and love is all that I need

And I found it there in your heart

It isn't too hard to see

We're in heaven, yeah

“Neither of them have mentioned about Paris. Do you think they were stalling? Waiting to see what happened between the two of them?” Riley asked Liam, as they watched their two friends hold each other lovingly on the dance floor.

“I’m not sure? I’d have assumed Drake would have mentioned something even if Evie didn’t. I hinted to him but he seemed clueless.”

“I’m surprised Maxwell hasn’t blurted it out yet. Do you think they will get back together? Officially?”

“I hope so, I hope Biancas actions haven’t prevented that from happening. Before we go on our honeymoon in a couple of days, why don’t I talk to Drake and you talk to Evie?”

“Can I talk to Drake? I know him more than I do Evie. You talk to her. Who knows tonight they may go back to what they were.”

“If they don’t, I’ll talk to Evie and you talk to Drake. I love you my Queen.”

“I love you too my king.” Holding Riley, he placed one hand over her growing bump.

I've been waitin' for so long

For somethin' to arrive

For love to come along

Now our dreams are comin' true

Through the good times and the bad

Yeah I'll be standin' there by you

“Through the good times and the bad... how many more bad times do we have to go through?” Tears began to form in Evie’s eyes as she reiterated the lyrics, thinking back to what the two of them had suffered over the years.

“Hopefully none, but I’ll be standing by you at all times.. I’ll protect you, and love you for the rest of my life.” Sounding sincere, she didn’t want to be stubborn and give up what they once had. It was the happiest she had ever been, and she assumed it was with him.

“I love you Drake Walker.”

“I love you too Evangeline Grace Bruley.”

And baby, you're all that I want

When you're lyin' here in my arms

I'm findin' it hard to believe

We're in heaven

And love is all that I need

And I found it there in your heart

It isn't too hard to see

We're in heaven, heaven, oooh

You're all that I want

You're all that I need

“You’re all that I want and need, don’t you forget that. Thank you for the dance Duchess.” Kneeling onto one knee, he kissed her stomach, letting it linger there for a moment.

“I wish things were different...” He whispered, hoping that no one heard him.

“Drake, Evie?” Hearing her voice, Drake immediately stood up in front of Evie protecting her.

“What do you want? Are you drunk?”

“Son, I’m a horrible person. I’m sober. I’m not allowed to drink. It was the condition that I had to keep to in order to attend my daughters wedding. I’m sorry for all the hurt I’ve caused. I know that isn’t going to be enough. Evie?”

“Yes?” Bianca moved closer to her, Evie noticed sorrow in eyes. Placing her hand on Evie’s arm, she flinched- not understanding why as the woman was surrounded by guards.

“Don’t you dare touch her!” Drake forced his mothers hands away, not wanting to cause a scene but needing to protect the woman he loved.

“I’m sorry. Evie I know my words will never be accepted, and I’m not blaming my alcohol addiction for my past actions. But I truly am sorry for all the hurt I’ve caused; for the death of your parents, for hurting you and my grandchild.”

“Our baby wasn’t your grandchild. You don’t deserve the title of grandmother.”

“Drake!”

“Evie, she doesn’t deserve your sympathy.”

“Savannah and Bertrand doesn’t deserve you both causing a scene on their special day. Bianca, thank you for your apology. It’ll take time to forgive you, but I will never forget.”

“Can you help me? I need help...”

“Only you can help yourself.” Evie gave Drake a kiss on the cheek. “Thank you for the dance. I’ll talk to you later.”

*****

The night came towards an end, and everyone began to retire to their rooms. Drake picked Maxwell up as he was that intoxicated he couldn’t remember his own name.

“Who are you?”

“Drake. You know who I am.” Maxwell’s drunk mind started to function.

“You’re going to Paris.”

“No I’m not. But you’re going in a cold shower if you carry on talking shit.”

Once he had assisted Max in his bed, he headed towards Evie’s room- they never got the chance to talk after their dance and conversation with Bianca. Knocking on the door, he hoped that she would answer.

“Hey, what’s the matter?”

“I just wanted to make sure you got to your room okay, and to say goodnight.”

“I haven’t been drinking that much so it would have been slightly embarrassing if i couldn’t figure the way to my room.”

“Fair point. Anyway, goodnight.” Drake kissed her on the cheek, before he could escape- she dragged him into her room by pulling on his tie.

“Stay with me? Let me lay in your arms?”

*****

Continue here

#trr #trr fanfic #trr we belong #drake x mc #drake x evie #liam x riley #maxwell beaumont #bertrand beaumont #savannah walker #trr bianca walker #drake walker #liam rhys #leo rhys #trr kiara #olivia nevrakis

32 notes · View notes

pug-bitch · 5 years

Text

That’s not why I’m going (26)

Yass Kween, right?

Book: The Royal Romance

Pairing: Drake Walker x Amara Suarez

Rating: some foul language, some extremely suggestive, and a steamy scene. This is absolutely NOT appropriate for people under 18.

Word count: around 4,900 (let me know if the ‘keep reading’ cutoff isn’t working well!)

Notes: This picks up pretty much where we left off, during first night in the cabin (yes I am taking my sweet time writing the happier parts, after everything our little guys have been through!), starting with Drake’s POV.

*****

Drake sighs wistfully. He can’t sleep, but not because he’s stressed out. On the contrary, he’s too blissful to sleep, and he didn’t even know that was an option. He looks at Amara, who is peacefully asleep next to him. They made love three times, once outside, and twice upstairs, in his bed. Suddenly, it dawns on Drake that he’d never had sex in this bed. Always at the palace. In fact, he’d never brought a woman back here. Too intimate. Now he’s grateful; it only makes this night more special. He pushes a strand of hair away from Amara’s face so he can see her better. He feels like a creep for a second, watching he sleep, but he just loves her face so much. And seeing her like this, relaxed and asleep, makes him feel at peace. No comparison with the nightmares she used to have. Or maybe still has, PTSD doesn’t go away like that. But at least it has calmed down.

Drake hopes her stress doesn’t come back running when they get back to court. He loves Portavira, even Penelope’s parents’ estate is quiet and beautiful, no frills. But he just wishes they could both stay here. Maybe they could, someday? It feels like such a pipe dream.

First, they have to get through the last week of the competition. Drake shudders, remembering the last competition, when Leo had to propose to Madeleine and then skipped town, wreaking havoc on everything. Would it be as bad this time? Probably. Ever since Drake was with Amara and had snapped at Liam several times, he had no idea what was going through his mind. No more late night chats, no more confidence. Did he miss it? Sure, but nothing he can do about it now. Liam had been a dick to Amara a few weeks ago, and even if he was a lot better, it still doesn’t excuse everything he’s said and done. Drake simply doesn’t know if he can just go back to normal. They would hopefully stay friends, if Drake and Amara played their cards right and announced their relationship in a timely manner. But best friends again? Probably not.

Drake feels a pang in his chest just thinking back on all the moments Liam had been there for him and vice versa.

No more, he thinks. This is not the time to turn this happy night into a stressful one. He’d deal with everything another day. Maybe it would be a catastrophe --probably would be-- but right now, all he wants to do is keep snuggling with Amara.

His phone buzzes on the nightstand. Shit, he thinks. Hopefully Amara doesn’t wake up. He grabs it and sees a text.

Amara is lovely, Drake. Well done. It was good talking to you today, you look happy. I love you.

His mom never said anything this nice, not anymore, not since Dad had passed and Sav had left, and Drake had closed himself up. He could tell how much his mom had taken to Amara. Of course she would, Amara is the Sun. Easy to talk to, smart, funny. Hauntingly beautiful. God, he loves her.

Insightful, too. She’d hit the nail on the head a couple months ago, when they had talked about Drake’s mom having remarried and how it had made him feel. He starts typing.

Love you too, Mom. Happy you like her. I like her too...a lot. Give my best to Barry.

His mom instantly replies, visibly excited given the speed at which she typed the second message.

Barry says hi too!!!!!!!!! We both want to see you soon!!!

So many exclamation points. Maybe because to this day, Drake had never acknowledged his stepdad via text, except for the odd text for birthdays.

He puts the phone down and starts closing his eyes, hoping to join Amara in slumber soon.

*****

‘You can’t sleep either?’ Maxwell whispers, approaching his brother in the family room.

‘Oh, Maxwell, you scared me,’ he says, startled.

‘Sorry,’ Max mutters, stifling a smile. His brother is wearing a burgundy satin robe, and matching slippers. He’s sitting on the couch, his back perfectly straight, his legs crossed in his tweed pyjama pants. As he sees Maxwell come in, Bertrand tightens the tie of his robe, and Maxwell realizes that there are gold tassels on each end of the rope. He chuckles on the inside, remembering the one time Amara had asked him if Bertrand sleeps in a Victorian nightgown. This is almost worse. All he’s missing is a pipe. And maybe 30 years added to his age.

‘Do you want to sit down with me?’ Bertrand asks. As Max sits, he wishes he could take a picture of the robe and slippers to send it to Amara.

‘Are you ok?’ Max asks, forcing himself to be serious again.

‘I’m fine,’ Bertrand smiles weakly. ‘Just...thinking, you know.’

Max nods. ‘I know. Me too. I’ve been thinking about Mom and Dad a lot, and… this explains many things.’

‘It does. I’m sorry for keeping this from you for so long, Maxxie.’

Tears threaten to fall from Maxwell’s eyes. Years since Bertrand had called him Maxxie. ‘It’s ok, I get it. You were doing this to honor Dad’s memory.’ What’s Max’s excuse for keeping the Bartie secret from Bertrand? He knows he promised Dramara to hold on until they find her and get her side of the story, but he longs to be close to his brother again. The secrets are driving an invisible wedge between them.

‘Still,’ Bertrand whispers. ‘I’m sorry, Maxxie. Can you forgive me?’

‘Of course. We’re brothers. The Beaumont Boys. Nothing can keep us apart!’

Bertrand chuckles. ‘We are not boys, Maxwell.’

Max eyes him from head to toe. ‘No doubt about that, given what you’re wearing.’

Bertrand dismisses him with a hand gesture. ‘Oh stop. How is Hana holding up? She seemed well at dinner.’

‘She’s fine. Brave. Relieved. Strong. All of those adjectives. I can’t wait til tomorrow when we get to go hang out at the Walkers’ cabin. You sure you don’t want to come?’

Bertrand shakes his head. ‘I can’t. I’m meeting with Liam, remember?’

Shit, Max thinks. He really isn’t being a considerate brother right now. ‘Do you want me to come with you?’

‘No, there’s no need, really. I would like to see you for maybe an hour tomorrow morning before you head to Portavira though, to convene of a plan that I can relay to Liam. You know, weigh some options.’

‘Of course! We’ll get coffee and discuss it.’

‘Great. Also… I think maybe we should both let Albert go, when all of this is said and done. Together, you know. To strengthen the Beaumont name and show that we are both proud of our father’s legacy.’

‘Yass Kween,’ Max says excitedly. He loves that Bertrand thinks of everything, from every angle.

Bertrand looks at him, confused. ��Qu...queen? You mean Queen Regina?’

Max bursts out laughing. ‘No, Bertrand, it’s an expression! I’m just saying ‘Yass Kween’ to you, as in I love your idea.’

Bertrand squints. ‘So...I’m the queen in this scenario?’ He shakes his head. ‘I don’t get it, Maxxie.’

Max shrugs, grabs the remote, and fires up Netflix. ‘Oh well, since we’re both up, let’s just watch some Queer Eye, maybe then you’ll get it.’

*****

Liv wakes up in a sweat. She didn’t even realize that she had fallen asleep. She was awakened by a nightmare, the same recurring one for over twenty years: she’s a little girl, watching her parents disappear like holograms, unable to hold on to their hands.

She shakes her head and assesses her surroundings. Too much vodka last night.

She jumps at the sight of Rashad, sound asleep on her ottoman. So, they’d both passed out. Great.

She looks at the clock, it’s past 2am now. She gets up to pour herself a glass of water from the bathroom sink and shakes Rashad awake.

‘Wake up, Domvallier. We fell asleep.’

He jumps up, startled. ‘Huh?’

‘You’re on my ottoman. You should go.’

Rashad wipes his eyes, and slowly comes to. ‘Oh God, Liv, I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to invade your space.’ He gets up hastily, and her heart sinks a bit. So, he did find her terrifying after all.

‘Hey, don’t worry, we just got too drunk and watched too many episodes.’

He starts washing his dirty glass and putting away the blanket he was using. Liv can’t believe he’s tidying up.

‘Leave it, I’ll do it. Thanks, though.’

He smiles and nods. ‘Thanks for the company, Nevrakis. It was a thousand times better than dinner would have been. Good night.’

Before she has time to respond, he’s out the door. She locks it behind him, gets out of her dress, and into bed. A strange feeling invades her. What is that? It feels warm, oddly normal and comforting. Like a blanket.

What the hell is she thinking? A fucking blanket? What happened, did this whole photo leak turn her into a pathetic mass of feelings? Stupid.

Regardless, she had a good night.

*****

Amara awakens to the sound of birds chirping at the window. She turns around, and sees Drake still spooning her, half asleep.

‘Morning, Suarez,’ he mutters, still sleepy.

‘Morning, Walker!’

She plants a kiss on his mouth, and he lingers a bit, kissing her deeper. God, she loves his kisses. He pulls her closer, their lips firmly tangled together, until she straddles him. She feels his cock between her legs, and she instantly feels herself get wetter and wetter. He smiles at her through their kiss, and lets out a soft moan as she rubs herself onto his hard cock. She wants to take her time, though. Thoroughly enjoy the morning with him. Feel his naked body against hers, truly feel him close.

They make love lazily, tenderly, for a long time. When they part, Amara nuzzles in Drake’s arms, comfortable and happy. ‘Can we stay here forever, please?’

Drake chuckles, kissing her head. ‘I wish, babe. Did you sleep well?’

‘Like a fucking baby. I even had nice dreams!’

He smiles at her, and she feels like her heart might explode. ‘You did? What did you dream of?’

‘Just some nice sceneries, some beaches, a quiet lakefront, and...you.’

He smiles again, a bright smile that shines on her like a Sun. ‘I’m glad you’re comfortable here.’

‘Oh, I am. So comfortable. Thanks for having me, Drake.’

He tucks a lock of hair behind her ear. ‘You don’t need to thank me. I can honestly say that I’ve never been happier.’

As if on purpose, Drake’s phone aggressively vibrates, and makes Amara jump with surprise.

Drake frowns and glances at it, with no visible plan to pick up. ‘It’s Liam,’ he says, his voice void of any enthusiasm.

‘Oh…’ Amara says, unable to say anything else.

‘I’m not picking up.’

She nods, silent. She almost says that he should, just so Liam doesn’t get suspicious. But right now, she doesn’t really care. ‘I’m excited to see the guys, but I’m gonna miss our alone time…’

Drake kisses her lips. ‘I am too… It’s been really nice to be away from the world. But I guess I--nevermind.’

She sits up, curious. ‘No no, tell me!’

Drake puts his head in his hands. ‘Ugh, I’m so lame. I was gonna say that I’m kind of excited about um…’ He pauses, and continues in a whisper. ‘Entertaining.’

Amara’s face lights up. She loves seeing him like this. He told her, weeks ago, that his dream was to open a small restaurant, and she can see why. He beams when he’s making his own food. And it doesn’t hurt that his cooking is absolutely delicious. She strokes his hair. ‘It’s not lame at all, it’s actually really sweet. And Drake?’

‘Hm?’

‘I love you.’

He pulls her closer, until her head rests against his chest again. ‘I love you too, Suarez. So fucking much.’

*****

Liam didn’t sleep at all. Well, maybe a little bit. Not much. He thought about what Madeleine had told him, and about his lack of agency in all that. About his father, who would probably not be around for much longer. About Amara, who didn’t reciprocate his feelings. About Olivia, who probably fucked her bodyguard to spite him. And about Drake, his best friend in the world, whom he really needed right now.

He waited until a decent time to call. A few weeks earlier, he wouldn’t have hesitated to call him at 4am if he needed to talk. But not now. Why, though? What happened to them that they didn’t even talk to each other anymore? Drake had been supportive enough, but probably just the bare minimum for someone who was like family. Liam missed him.

So, he called him as soon as it was appropriate. He figured, since he was at Ramsford, he was probably up early, what with Maxwell being a walking alarm clock.

But Drake hadn’t answered.

He tried again, several times, but no luck. He hesitated a bit, and after a quick look in his bathroom mirror, he realizes he cannot just stay with his own thoughts all day. He needs to be with his friends, even if only for a few hours. He needs to be at the Palace in the early afternoon for some meetings, including one with Bertrand, and at night he has a one-on-one with Kiara. But he has a couple of hours to kill.

He dials his phone.

‘Your Highness.’

Bastien always picks up right away. ‘Bastien, hello. Could you please take out the car? I need to go to Ramsford.’

*****

‘Do you think we need to bring her any nail polish?’

Maxwell was in charge of packing Amara’s suitcase, but Hana had insisted on helping him out. She responds right away, ‘Yes, I think so. What if hers is chipped? We did our nails together a couple of days ago already, so she may need some. Pack her light gray one, and also a bolder color. Oh, and her remover.’

Hana was carefully packing Amara’s dresses into a small suitcase. Enough formal wear for Penelope’s estate tomorrow and the day after, and some casual dresses, jeans, and a sweater for downtime. Heels, and her Steve Madden slip-ons. Hana was used to packing all the right things. She was used to doing all the right things.

She closes the suitcase, after Max hands her the toiletry bag that he has just made up. She sits on the bed, taking a breath to think about the amazing friendships she’s made here. She definitely does not want to go home, not anytime soon. Maybe she’s ready to come out to her parents, but she does not want to be under their control anymore. She wishes she could stay here, with the Beaumonts, or with Amara. But after the competition, there is something else she needs to do. If she doesn’t, she’ll have regrets for the rest of her life. She’ll gather all the strength she has, and go to London to see if she still has a chance, or if she truly messed up years ago.

She is drawn from her daydream by Max, who is gently tucking a lock of her hair behind her ear. ‘What’s on your mind, baby girl?’

She smiles and shrugs. ‘Nothing much… I’m excited about tonight.’

Max beams. ‘Me too! You’ll see, the Walker cabin is beautiful, and so quiet, you will love it so much.’

She nods, ‘I can’t wait. I also really want to see Drake and Amara again. It’s weird without them.’

‘You mean Dramara?’

Hana laughs heartily, ‘If you say so!’

They both go back downstairs, where Bertrand awaits them for brunch. As they are all seated on the patio, digging into their frittatas, they see Liam’s towncar pull up. Hana’s heart jumps in her chest, and she looks over to Max, who looks agitated. Liam thinks Drake and Amara are here, what is he going to think when he sees that they are both gone?

Liam gets out of the car, and Hana cannot help but think that he looks terrible. Has he been sleeping? He certainly hasn’t been shaving today, or washing his hair.

‘Good morning, friends!’ he says as he approaches them. ‘Sorry for barging in, I was hoping I could see Drake.’

Maxwell regains his composure and responds, ‘Good morning Liam, please join us for brunch! Unfortunately Drake isn’t here, he had to go to his cabin to deal with something.’

Liam nods, but Hana can’t tell if he believed Max. ‘Oh ok, that would probably explain why he’s not answering his phone. I’d love to join for brunch, thank you Maxwell.’

He comes onto the patio and takes a seat at the table. Max gets up to fetch him a plate. The Beaumonts had dismissed their staff for a few days after they realized that one of their employees must have taken Liv’s phone. They were planning to question them as soon as possible, and in the meantime, they were getting by without help. Bertrand’s frittata was surprisingly good, though.

When Max comes back with Liam’s plate, they all bid each other bon appétit and start eating again. Liam, visibly surprised, asks, ‘Oh, aren’t we waiting for Amara?’

Oh God, Hana thinks. She has to think on her feet, think of something, anything.

As she’s about to open her mouth and improvise, Bertrand chimes in, sounding incredibly natural. ‘Lady Amara is in her bedroom, she has a migraine. She asked not to be disturbed, she needs to be in complete darkness.’

Damn, Bertrand, Hana thinks. How did he think on his feet so fast?

‘Goodness,’ Liam says, visibly convinced. ‘That’s too bad, poor Amara. Well, I’ll see her in Portavira tomorrow I hope.’

Bertrand flashes a bright smile. ‘I sure hope so! Those intense migraines ought to go away after a day, I’m sure.’

They finish their brunch all the while making small talk, all carefully avoiding the main topics at court. No one is even remotely mentioning Olivia or Madeleine or anything like that. Just pleasant, completely phony conversation.

As Liam gets ready to leave, Hana offers to accompany him to his car, which he gladly accepts. Once they are alone, she asks him, ‘Liam, are you ok?’

He chuckles, ‘I look like shit, don’t I?’

Hana is surprised to hear him curse. He’s always seen him very prim and proper, except when he was propositioning Amara. This time, it’s different. He really doesn’t look well. Still, she lies, ‘No, you look great! You just seem… preoccupied.’

He sighs and looks her in the eye. ‘I have no idea what I’m going to do, Hana. Truly no idea.’

Hana squeezes his arm and says, ‘If you need to talk about it, maybe you and I could grab coffee in Portavira tomorrow? Just a friend date, so you can put all your thoughts out there.’

He smiles, ‘I’d like that very much.’

Once Liam gone, she heads back inside, where the Beaumonts are finishing up their coffee in silence. She can tell that Max is dying to ask Bertrand about his lie, but is containing himself. Still, Hana wants to know. She needs to be bolder, just like she has been recently. So, she asks, ‘Bertrand, can I ask you something?’

He takes one last sip of his coffee and says matter-of-factly, ‘I had to make something up. I couldn’t let Liam get suspicious.’

Hana’s jaw drops. ‘What--what do you mean?’

Bertrand smiles faintly. ‘I’m not blind, Hana. I see what’s going on. I just don’t think Liam needs to know right now.’

Max’s eyes are the size of cantaloupes. ‘What do you mean you know what’s going on?’

‘Come on, Maxxie. Drake and Amara. It’s obvious.’

Max shakes his head and asks hesitantly, ‘You’re--you’re not mad?’

Bertrand snorts, ‘Oh dear, do you really see me as a grumpy old man who can’t rejoice for two people in love?’ He rolls his eyes. ‘Plus, with all the crap that’s raining on us right now, it’s nice that at least two of us are happy. Yass Kween, right Max?’

*****

‘Drake, can you come here?’

Drake is setting up their lunch table in the backyard, when Amara calls him from the kitchen. ‘Coming!’ he says.

‘I can’t find the baking powder, could you point me to it?’

He smiles, and digs deep in the cupboard where the baking powder is behind a bunch of cans. ‘Here you go, babe. How’s the batter going?’

She smiles excitedly. ‘Great! I cut the pineapple in little pieces, and plus I found some coconut shavings in your pantry, so I’m adding that to the cake.’

He chuckles as he sees that her face is covered with flour. She must not be very gentle when mixing her batter. ‘Where’s your phone? I gotta take a picture of your face right now, it’s priceless!’

‘Oh come on,’ she says, attemting to wipe her face. ‘It’s over there, if you insist on making fun of me.’

He picks up her phone, and notices the multiple missed calls. ‘Um, Amara? Did you see this?’

‘Hm?’ she asks absentmindedly, adding the baking powder to her mixing bowl.

He shows her her phone. ‘Michael. He called you eight times, just today, and it’s only like 6am in New York.’

He hates himself right away for bringing it up, when he sees the cloud loom over her eyes. ‘I know. I’m just not ready to talk to him.’

Drake nods. ‘I get it. He texted you, too, you don’t want to at least read what he wrote?’

‘No,’ she says curtly. ‘I know he’s going to apologize, that’s what my dad said. I don’t want to hear it now, I don’t want to think about it. I’ll deal with it another time.’ She pauses. ‘I know what it must look like.’

He closes the distance between them and wraps his arms around her. ‘It looks like you’re hurting and I want to help you get better, because I love you.’

She nods, obviously fighting back tears. ‘I love you too. I appreciate you wanting to help me…’

‘Hey, you’re helping me find my sister. we have each other’s backs, ok?’

‘Fair. But the situation with your sister is promising. It holds hope. My situation with Michael is fucked. He will never see me as his sister ever again. I’ll always be the person who failed his entire family.’

Drake holds her tighter. ‘I hope you know that it’s not true. Remember what your father said. Forgive yourself.’

She nods and offers a faint smile. ‘I’m trying, Drake. I really, really am. But for right now, I think the best way for me to do that is to keep some distance between me and Michael. It hurts us both too much. Hopefully someday…’

She trails off, plants a kiss on Drake’s lips, and continues mixing her batter. Drake watches her intently, his heart aching for her. He wants to take away the pain. But really, he’s probably making it worse, comparing her situation to his own with Sav. Sav is alive, and Drake will, hopefully, see his little sister soon.

Amara will never see her brother again.

But Drake can’t help but think about what she had told him about her bond with Michael. That they used to be like siblings. He hopes that, one day, she finds this bond again.

‘Do you want a beer with lunch?’ he asks, trying to lighten the mood.

Without looking up from her mixing bowl, which should be completely mixed by now, she says ‘Sure, if you’re having one.’

*****

Amara doesn’t want to ruin the moment. No, on the contrary, these moments spent with Drake in the cabin are so special, so happy, that she wants nothing more than to enjoy them. But she has a lump in her throat now, that she can’t swallow just yet. Not Drake’s fault, not at all. He doesn’t understand completely, how could he? He’s lost people he loved, of course, but not by his own fault. Not in circumstances that he could have avoided.

He understands her well otherwise. She’s never had a connection like this one in her life, not ever. She knows what he’s trying to do, too. He wants her to reconnect with Michael and find the sibling connection that they lost along with Sergio. But she knows that she can’t force that. They both need the space, even if Michael isn’t aware of it right now.

She wonders for a second if something is truly wrong, and if she should in fact call him back, or at least read his texts before deleting them. She shakes her head. No, if anything was wrong, Dad would call. Amara had answered every single text from her dad and Nancy during her time in Cordonia. After her dad’s heart attack, she never took a chance with a missed call.

Once the cake is in the oven, she sets the times --that damn cockblocking timer-- and joins Drake outside. When she sees his face, she realizes right away that he feels bad for insisting earlier. Her heart melts a bit. She’s been too harsh, too radical with him. He just wants her to be happy.

She softens and smiles, kissing his cheek before sitting at the table.

‘You ok?’ he asks.

‘Yeah. Sorry about earlier. I get why you said all that, and I love that you want the best for me. Thank you.’

He smiles, visibly more relaxed, and kisses her hand. He holds on to it for a while.

*****

Madeleine checks her phone for an answer from the middleman. Finally, her screen lights up.

It is booked. Arrival Friday morning.

She suppresses a smile. Her idea was retained. She knows they have something else in store for her, something big and public apparently, but she thinks they need more ammo for this bitch. Something more personal. Something to break her.

Oh well, they’ll see on Friday.

For now, she needs to make nice with the others. She puts on her best fake smile, and heads to Kiara’s room, who she knows is getting ready for a one-on-one with Liam in a few hours.

‘Knock knock!’ Madeleine says out loud.

‘Entrez!’ she hears Kiara reply.

Ugh, she thinks. Why is this bitch constantly speaking French? Madeleine had always thought that French was a language for whores and peasants. But she has to keep that smile on. She can’t make all enemies. ‘Hi, Kiara,’ she says. ‘Want some company?’

Kiara is sitting at her vanity and she is putting on makeup. ‘Oui, avec plaisir!’

Madeleine comes in and closes the door behind her. ‘So, are you ready for the big date?’

‘Oh I definitely am,’ Kiara purrs. Madeleine can’t believe that Kiara has a date with Liam before her, but oh well. Soon enough, everything will be under control.

‘Do you know where he is taking you?’

‘I think he wants to go get a drink and take a stroll through the Capital. It should be fun!’

Madeleine nods, keeping up appearances. She and Kiara were close, once. When they were younger and probably more naive, full of dreams and hope. Before Leo fucked it all up and made Madeleine have to go get things on her own instead of simply sitting back and relaxing. Back when Kiara wanted to bone Walker, and marry a diplomat. And now that stupid bitch thinks she has a shot at being an actual Queen? Ha! If she could, Madeleine would laugh.

Madeleine responds, ‘Yes, you will have fun, I have no doubt. Now, is that what you’re wearing?’

*****

‘Babe, look at my cake! I think I didn’t fuck it up!’

Drake looks over his shoulder while he’s doing the dishes. ‘Wow, that cake looks fucking delicious. Well done!’

Amara beams. The cook of the house, complimenting her cake? She definitely is a decent baker, but it’s been a while since she has baked something, unless you count that apple pie competition at Applewood Manor, or as Drake refers to it, the ‘apple shit’.

She used to bake with her mom, back in the day, but of course she would only do the mixing and the bowl licking, and none of the oven business, she was too little for that.

‘Alright,’ she says, ‘now i’m gonna make a pitcher of margarita.’ As Drake opens his mouth to say something, she pursues, ‘Or maybe two. Two, right? It’s Max and Liv we’re talking about.’

‘My thoughts exactly,’ Drake chuckles.

Before getting started on the lime juice and tequila, she goes over to Drake and hugs him. ‘I’m so happy to be here with you.’

‘I’m happy too, babe. It feels right to have you here.’

As if on cue, there is a knock on the door. Amara can already hear Max and Hana joke around on the other side of the door. She kisses Drake’s cheek and goes over to open.

‘It’s us, bitches!’ Maxwell yells. ‘And we brought Olivia!’

*****

Taglist:

@andy-loves-corgis @drakeandcamilleofvaltoria @jovialyouthmusic @mariahschoices @drakesensworld @thequeenofcronuts @notoriouscs @drakewalkerisreal @nikkis1983 @simsvetements @alesana45 @iplaydrake @emceesynonymroll @lily1999love @drakewalkerwhipped @drakxwalker @drakewalkerrosenberg @drakeswalkers @drakelover78 @silviasutton1989 @dcbbw @carabeth @furiousherringoperatortoad @hollygirl1269 @sirbeepsalot

Thank you for your encouragements, everyone! Let me know if you want to be added to the taglist :)

#that's not why i'm going #dramara #drake x amara #drake walker x amara suarez #trr drake #drake x mc #drake walker x mc #drake walker trr #drake walker #drake trr #trr #the royal romance #the royal romance fanfic #choices fanfiction

40 notes · View notes

depulsorpg · 5 years

Photo

WHATS IN YOUR FILE.

NAME: Bartemius “Barty” Crouch Jr. GENDER & PRONOUNS: Cismale, he/him. HOUSE & YEAR: Ravenclaw, 7th. BLOOD STATUS: Pureblood. AFFILIATION: Death Eaters.

WHAT DO THE RUMORS SAY.

POSITIVES: Studious, imaginative, skilful. NEGATIVES: Cynical, cruel, aloof . LOOKS LIKE: Cody Christian.

WHAT IS THE TRUE STORY.

Loves his mother dearly, but despises his father.

Suffered a lot of cruelty from his father during his childhood.

Has a thirst for knowledge, somewhat of a prodigy.

Finds most people quite irritating to converse with.

Has a slight obsession for the Dark Arts, finds them fascinating.

I 1958

Your peers came into this world as the apple of their fathers’ eye, their heirs, the ones they had been waiting for all along. Meanwhile, you came as a nuisance, a disruption to your fathers carefully laid out plans. Your young mother blissfully cradled your tiny frame in her arms, finally having found a purpose, something to put all her passion into. Until now she had only been a girl, living all alone in a big mansion that had never started to feel like her own but now she had a purpose, now she was a mother. Your dad saw you for the first time almost two days after you had been born. “Work.” He muttered under his breath to the young woman holding his child. You were named after him anyway; it was the proper thing to do after all. And while your father could barely manage to look at you for another two seconds, your mother’s fingertips carefully caressed your cheek. “Barty.” She mumbled reverently, overwriting your fathers wish. You would never become Bartemius like your father, you were hers from the beginning so you proudly wore the name she gave you.

I 1964

With your nose scrunched in disdain and anger, you watched the son of one of your mother’s girlfriends run through your garden like a berserker, disregarding the flower your mother so carefully and lovingly planted just a week earlier. You had watched her closely, fascinated by the care she took. She had explained to you that the young plants were fragile, that you needed to be very careful so that they would have a chance to grow and become strong and beautiful. Your beloved Mother, she always knew too much of fragility. When the heat of the midday had started to tire her you told her to sit down and finished the work, recreating her every step, being careful not to destroy any of the delicate petals. You had felt her proud and adoring gaze on your back.

Now she wasn’t saying anything as the careless boy trampled the little flowers that had sparked such joy in her. You knew she was too polite to do so; you knew she didn’t want to anger her friend. You, however, had no issue doing so. Rage was pulsating through your veins as you stormed towards the other kid, as fast as your legs would carry you, and pushed them into the little creek running through your garden. Pleasure fulfilled you as you watched him sputter and cry out for his mother. He had deserved it. Your mom scolded you a little, asked you what you were thinking to push the other boy into the water but you could see in her eyes that she knew. She knew what you had done and she was grateful for it. If anyone understood that beautiful and delicate things needed protection it was her.

I 1967

More often than not these days you found yourself with your head bowed over a book and whenever your mother spotted you like that she ruffled through your hair and called you her “smart boy”. Pride lit up her eyes whenever you showed her how good you were doing with your teacher. It was so easy to make her happy and proud, at least whenever she was actually around. These days she spent a lot of time in her bed, managing only the slightest of smiles whenever you slit through the bedroom door to visit her. Your father wouldn’t even have noticed unless hadn’t you begged him to call a doctor for her.

The next day you diligently waited outside your mother’s bedroom for the doctor to come out again, worry burying creases into your youthful face. When he came out though all he told you was that your mother was fine, that she just needed rest and quiet for a while. He gave you a pitying look as he laid one hand on your shoulder and told you not to disturb her too much. You could see it in his eyes, that he wasn’t being entirely honest to you, that he didn’t think you were old enough to understand. That night you tried asking your dad about it, which only prompted him to let out a snort and shaking his head. “Your mother was never equipped for real life.” He just mumbled, which was all the information you would get from him that night. Anger started swelling in your stomach as you looked at him with disbelief, how could he say something like that about his wife? There wasn’t an ounce of worry for her in his gaze, he just plainly didn’t seem to care.

That day sparked a newfound interest in medicine for you as you were hellbent on finding out what illness actually ailed your mother. Days were spent in the library, instead of meeting up with your friends in order to enjoy those last days of summer. The house was eerily empty and quiet with your father at work the entire time and your mother barely ever leaving her bed. The doctor had told you not to disturb her but every now and then you still sneaked into her room. You wanted to ask her about her symptoms, but whenever you started inquiring, she just took your hands in hers and told you not to worry. How silly of her to think that was even possible.

I 1972

Coming back to school after the summer was bittersweet. School was alright, you even enjoyed most of the classes and some of your peers weren’t even too bad. However, it also meant leaving your mother all alone. She had seemed fine when you left, waving you goodbye from the door of the mansion. You had made her promise not to be alone too much, knowing all too well how isolation worsened her condition. It didn’t help much that word about Audrey Crouch’s mysterious disease had spread over this last year, turning her into somewhat of a spectacle for her usual girlfriends. You knew worrying wouldn’t help you much, but it was what you did the best. While all around you your housemates were excitedly sharing stories about their summer you solemnly unpacked your books. All too often you felt like an old man among kids, as your concerns seemed all too different from theirs. It was hardly tolerable to hear them making tiny issues out to be disasters when your life had never granted you such luxury.

Over the last year, you had been able to figure out that your mothers’ ailment was most likely one of the mind, not the body. A theory your father obviously didn’t care about, which he had made abundantly clear by throwing his glass at the wall behind you, missing by only centimetres. The thought of how much more choleric he had apparently become over the last year also didn’t do much to stop your worrying about your mother’s well-being. Over the summer your father had paid you more attention than ever before, seemingly hell-bent on picking arguments with you over just about anything but especially your mother. Having spent years without a care about her, his sudden involvement only made your blood boil with familiar hatred. After all these years of ducking from his gaze, you weren’t going to continue like that. Finally, you were at the same height as your father and both of you knew that the time of his undisputed authority had gotten to an end.

Back at Hogwarts however, you needed to remind yourself how to be a boy, how to walk a little less straight and speak a little softer. Not that you were good at it, blending in, or that you really cared for it either. Your only friends were those you had known for as long as you could remember and even in their eyes, you could spot the bewilderment at his behaviour at times. However, while others with similar patterns of behaviour were secretly called weirdos or even freaks, you were more of a mystery than an outcast. For some reason, your harsh words and the smug smirk you had fashioned for your façade seemed to intrigue people, even though they weren’t the kinds of people you were even remotely interested in associating with. Popularity had never been far up your list of priorities anyway.

I 1977

The light of your wand was the only thing spending even the slightest bit of illumination as you squinted in order to make out the words written on the pages before you. Small illustrations accompanied one of the rare texts about dark magic you had been able to acquire. What had started as an eccentric hobby was now your main field of interest, leading to you spending your nights up and reading instead of sleep. Dark bags below your eyes had long since become your constant companion, alongside ruffled hair and raised irritability, even though that last one was more of a permanent character trait than a momentary condition.

You long since left the lanky boy, that consisted mostly of anger, behind. Or maybe you had just become a more polished version, hiding the rage behind smooth words and a hollow smile. Most people were still insufferable to you, especially those your own age but you had learned to hide your contempt. These days you channelled your more destructive instincts into this, dark magic. The words still prompted a sinister grin to appear on your lips. Busying yourself with learning about one of the things your father despised the most had been the initial motive for your intrigue with the Dark Arts but those days had long passed, while your interest stuck with you.

Therefore, when you had heard about the Dark Lord and his following it didn’t take much to convince you. You could feel that there were big things happening, that history was being written and you so badly wanted to be part of that. There was such an allure to this movement that seemed to have just the right place for you. You finally found the darkness that had been brewing inside of you for many years mirrored in those around you. It certainly seemed that maybe this is where you, the boy with the dark thoughts and ambitions, might find your place after all.

WHAT ARE YOUR RELATIONSHIPS.

EVAN ROSIER: Friend, one of the few people he gets along with. RABIA SHAFIQ: Vaguely irritated by, but also admires. DIRK CRESSWELL: Enemy, often fights with. ISOBEL CLEMONTE: Attempting to manipulate. THEO STEBBINS: Potions partner, cannot get along with.

#hp rp #new rp #marauders rp #harry potter rp #barty crouch jr #bartybio #r #de #t

8 notes · View notes

mrswalkers-blog · 6 years

Text

A Golden Cage

Chapter 1 - Love at First Sight

Book: The Royal Romance (AU)

This is the story of Emily, daughter of Drake and Riley. She just celebrated her 18th birthday. She is young, beautiful and full of energy.

Summary: Drake and Riley are excited to introduce their son Jack as their heir to the court. King Liam and Queen Olivia visit Valtoria with their son, James. Drake and Riley’s daughter Emily is excited to meet her childhood friend Daniel. Emily is invited to participate in Social Season. Would she fall in love with the Prince or fall for a commoner?

Warnings: PG.

This series will be NSFW. It will have mentions of sexual abuse and violence. I will tag the chapters accordingly.

A/N: I know I have still to finish Falling in Love with You. But I am possessed by this story. I have many chapters of this one already written in the draft. And I am not able to stop. So I have kept Falling... on pause until this story gets out of my system. Or maybe I will write them in parallel. God Help me!

Word Count: 2000

FaceClaim: Please suggest me!

Emily Walker

James Rhys

Daniel

Emily woke up to her cell phone ringing. She grunted and searched for her phone on her bed, fumbling her hands around with her eyes still closed.

‘Hello?’ she said in a sleepy voice.

‘It’s noon Emily! You are still sleeping?’ Riley said annoyed on the other end.

‘Mom! I was studying late, let me sleep.’ she said rubbing her eyes.

‘I know you were out partying!’ Riley said firmly.

‘Oh, Mom! Chill!’ Emily exclaimed, ‘I was back at 11. I just couldn't sleep, I was binge watching Friends.’

‘Fine! Listen, have you picked out a dress for tonight? I want you to look your best. And be at your best behavior!’ Riley declared.

‘God! No one is going to notice me! Everyone is going to rant about Jack!’

‘Emily! King Liam and Queen Olivia are attending with Prince James. I don't want you to roam around in your jeans... Emily? do you hear me?’ she asked as she didn't receive any response from Emily.

Emily’s jaw dropped and eyes went wide hearing James was attending the party.

‘Mom! I gotta go!’ Emily dropped the phone on the bed.

‘James!’ she shouted excitedly. She jumped out of bed and ran in the bathroom to get a shower.

---

Emily spent the day getting ready for the evening at her salon. She excitedly shared the news with her beautician that she is going to meet the Prince that evening. Of course, she had met him before, but he had never noticed her like a lady. She was always John’s little sister for him. Today she wanted to look the most beautiful lady in the room. Someone he couldn't ignore.

She looked at her reflection in the mirror, turning around, in her pink silk gown. Baby pink color suited her, the dress fitted her perfectly enhancing her curves. Her hand brushed at the boat neck of the dress. She wanted to wear something more revealing but knew mom would never approve of it. She blew a kiss to her reflection in the mirror before walking out of the salon, with a spring in her feet.

---

At the party, she stood in a corner with one of her friend eating hors-d'oeuvre. She hated these formal parties. Parties to her meant dancing to loud music, shouting, laughing, drinking (to some extent), flirting with boys. But she could do nothing here.

She hated the fact that she never got any such party in her honor while his brother got to celebrate at least twice a year. Every time he achieved something, their parents gathered all nobels and spent the evening boasting his achievements. While she was only allowed a single friend to invite, with whom she spent the evening avoiding the nobles.

‘You know I hate these parties!’ she complained to her friend. ‘Every time these nobels remind me that I am good for nothing. What talents do you have? You should dress properly like a lady. You should do a course in interior decoration. I think Jewelry designing will suit you.’ she said mocking the questions and advises thrown at her.

‘Why the hell do they care what I do with my life?’ she complained scanning the room.

‘Who is that guy?’ he friend asked her, looking at a handsome guy in his late-twenties, talking with some nobels.

‘That is Bartie. My cousin. Haven't I introduced you to him?’

‘No! Can you please! He is HOT!’ she said checking him out.

‘Maybe, but he is a bore. Are you sure you want to meet him?’

‘Yes, please’ she replied.

‘Okay’, she walked down to the group Bartie was standing. She greeted everyone and politely asked to borrow Bartie. She dragged him to her friend.

‘Bartie, I would like you to meet my friend Anna.’ She said pointing her hand to Anna.

‘Anna, this is my cousin Bartie, the one you were checking out earlier.’ she said and walked away without looking back at Anna’s shocked expression.

---

She sighed, feeling bored and alone in a room filled with people. She saw her mother and father, with her brother Jack, talking happily to some guest. She pretended she didn't care, but she wanted her parents to be as proud of her as they were of Jack. Jack was the heir of Valtoria. He was good at everything. Every time, first in his class, excellent in sports, life of party, he could charm young and old, women and men, everyone.

She knew her parents loved her as much as they loved Jack, maybe more. But she knew she had done nothing to make them proud. She had tried hard but just kept failing at everything. She was always a mediocre at everything she did, never a champion like her brother.

She saw Madeline approaching her. She immediately turned and walked in another direction when he spotted a guy wearing a black suit, looking lost in the crowd. He saw her and flashed a smile. She immediately recognized her friend Daniel who had vanished some three and a half years ago.

‘Oh My God! Daniel!’ she ran excitedly towards him and wrapped her arms around him. ‘Where have you been for so long!’

‘You knew I was in London studying.’ he chuckled.

‘But you never called! How can you forget about your friends?’ she slapped his shoulders playfully.

‘I didn't forget, I just got busy.’ he shrugged his shoulders, smiling.

‘Busy! So busy you didn't have time for me? And as far as I know, your graduation was six months ago.’

‘Yes, I returned from London six months back.’

‘So where were you last six months?’

'I was taking training to become a security officer.’

‘Security! So can you shoot bullets? Do you have a gun?’

Daniel looked on both sides and moved his suit away to reveal his gun, tucked in his belt. Emily jumped with excitement. ‘Cool! Can I see it?’ she said reaching for the gun.

‘No! you will get me fired before I even start!’ Daniel moved his hip away avoiding her.

‘What do you mean? Where are you joining?’

‘I am your security guard!’

‘Mine? Seriously! That is going to be amazing!’ she raised her hand for a hi-five. Daniel chuckled and clapped her hand.

‘Daniel, is it?’ Daniel turned to see Jack approaching them.

‘Jack, how are you?’ he greeted him politely. Jack gave him a hug. Daniel returned the hug with same enthusiasm.

‘By the way, congratulations on winning the Royal Annual Sports Challenge!’ Daniel smiled and shook his hand warmly.

‘Thanks! You just missed the games. You would have enjoyed them.’ Jack

‘Jack, you are only worried that if he had come back a month ago, he would have kicked your ass in the challenge!’ Emily kept a hand on Daniel's shoulder.

‘I am glad that now I don't have to look after you!’ he flicked Emily’s nose,’ He will be there to handle your nonsense.’

‘You knew!’ she asked, eyes going wide.

‘Ofcourse! Bastien called dad this morning. I know because I work with Dad, and don't sleep till noon.’ he commented before turning to Daniel.

‘Daniel, I have to warn you. Being her security guard, you will be just following her to salons and parties and carry her drunk back home.’

‘I don’t get drunk!’ she exclaimed. Jack chuckled as Emily started hitting him and he dodged her effortlessly.

Jack paused abruptly as his eyes moved to the door. ‘They have arrived! I will take your leave now.’ he said walking towards the door.

Emily turned to the door, King Liam, Queen Olivia, and Prince James had arrived. Jack joined Drake and Riley to welcome them.

‘Isnt he handsome!’ she sighed looking at James.

‘The Prince?’ Daniel asked. He noticed the spark in Emily’s eyes.

‘Ofcourse, you silly! He has just turned 21. Rumour has it that King and Queen are planning Social Season to find a wife for him.’

‘Frankly, I don't understand this custom. Marriage is a stage in a relationship. You need to be in love to marry someone. Competing with other women to marry a stranger, it seems ridiculous!’ he remarked.

‘Shut up!’ she smacked the back of her hand on his arm.’You know nothing about love and marriage!’

Daniel noticed her cheeks turning red as James threw her a smile from across the room. They kept looking at each other for a while until Drake escorted them to meet other guests.

Emily turned towards Daniel, smiling widely,’Did you see how he looked at me?’

‘Yaah, looks like love at first sight.’ he said mockingly.

'You really think so?’ she asked excitedly, unable to understand the sarcasm.

Emily’s eyes followed James in the entire room. Her heart started beating fast as she realized they will soon be meeting her.

‘Oh God! they are coming this way!’ she grabbed Daniel’s arm. Daniel hesitantly released his arm from her grasp. He walked back as they approached her. She gently bowed in a curtsy. ‘Your Majesties’

‘You don't need to be so formal. Emily’ Queen Olivia said giving her a short hug.

'It's lovely seeing you again, Emily.' King Liam smiled at her.

'We hope to see you at the Social Season. We will, of course, send you an official invitation soon. ' Olivia said to Emily.

'Social Season? Emily is just 18!' Riley looked at Drake, eyeing him to say something.

'Well, it's true. We don't think she is ready to get married.' Drake reasoned with Liam.

'Oh come on! She is an adult. She can make her decisions herself. What do you say Emily?' Olivia dismissed their argument.

'Well, I think it would not hurt to participate.' she blushed.

'That's fair. I think you should sponsor her in the social season. Let her get to know James. And then she can decide.' Liam suggested.

'It's settled then. See you soon dear.' Olivia said to Emily before going to meet other guests.

Emily watched James walk away. James turned to catch her staring at him. Emily bit her lip and turned away.

Emily found Daniel with a drink in his hand. She looked around and snatched it from his hand. She sneaked a sip and thrust the glass back to him.

'What was that?' he asked sipping his drink.

'Mom doesn't let me drink.' she shrugged.

'You are 18. You can drink.' he said.

'Mom was raised in the USA. The legal age to drink there is 21. she said no alcohol till 21. She thinks I don't drink.' she said lowering her voice, giving him a wink.

'Which apparently is not true.' He teased.

'I had my first drink when I was 16. It is a secret.' she said with a finger on her lips.

'Your secret is safe with me.' he raised his glass. Emily again snatched his glass to take a sip.

'Hi' James said joining them. Emily held the glass tight in her hands.

'Hi, James! This is Daniel. Daniel, James.' she introduced them.

'Of course. It is an honor meeting you, Your Highness.' Daniel bowed his head a little.

'Daniel, I have not seen you before. Which house do you belong to?’ James asked.

‘I... I am a commoner, sir.’ he said.

‘Daniel is my friend. And now my security too.’ Emily corrected him.

‘Nice to meet you, Daniel. Can I borrow Emily for a moment?’ he asked.

‘Ofcourse, I will give you two some privacy.’ he said backing away.

“You look gorgeous today, Emily!’ James said.

‘Thanks’ Emily looked down at her cheeks turn red.

‘I am afraid I won't be able to spend much time with you tonight. But could you share your number with me?’ he said pulling out his mobile.

‘Sure!’ she said taking his mobile. She saved her number and handed the mobile back to him.

‘I will take your leave now..’ he said taking her hand in his, pulling it up to kiss her knuckles, looking in her eyes. Her cheeks turned red as his lips brushed her hands softly. She smiled, tugging a loose strand of hair behind her ear, as James waved her goodbye.

Love at first sight, she had seen in movies, read in novels, but had never experienced it. Not till today. She knew she was in love when all she could think about today was him. How his smile had brightened up her life. There is no other feeling in the world as beautiful as love. But what if she fails to win his heart in the social season? What if someone else wins him over? Will she fail again? Was she ready for the biggest challenge of her life?

Disclaimer: The characters belong to Pixelberry. I only own my Original Characters

Taglist : @agent-bossypants , @mymandrake , @writtenbycandy , @mind-reader1 , @alesana45 , @the-excelsior , @walkerisbae , @butindeed , @notoriouscs , @speedyoperarascalparty , @stopforamoment , @andy-loves-corgis , @jenp02cutie-blog , @drakelover78 , @silviasutton1989 , @annekebbphotography, @stopforamoment @traeumerinwitzhelden , @blackwidow2721 , @flowerpowell, @blubutterflyy, @mrsernestsinclaire , @liamskinkyqueen , @idonthaveacluesoyeah, @cleareclipsedeputyathlete, @fluffy-marshmallow-heart

I have used the taglist of Falling in love with you. Please let me know if you want me to remove you or add you to the tag list.

13 notes · View notes

indescribablechoices · 6 years

Text

Count Your Blessings - Part Four of Enchanting (TRR)

Enchanting follows the story of Liam and Alicia (MC)’s daughter Lyra as she enters the social season in search of a husband. Familiar faces, sibling shenanigans and naturally; romance, all await along the way.

Part One/Part Two/Part Three/

Tag list: @brightpinkpeppercorn @iknewyoudcome @mitalijoshi @mynameiskaylabella @cocomaxley @boneandfur

Summary - Whilst Lyra takes her time in the garden with Bartie, the rest of the Rys children contemplate the news about their father and find companionship and comfort in their own ways.

Rating - Teen; nothing extremely mature, but discussions of terminal illness, coming out, and suggested sex.

Word count - 3089

Enchanting Masterlist

Alodie leaned in the doorway to the music room, listening to the sad melody that was drifting out from within. Drake was alone inside, eyes closed as he slid his bow across his violin strings, flawlessly drawing beautiful notes from it. His glasses sat at the end of his nose as they always did when he played, ignoring how they slipped as he lost himself in the music.

Her heart ached to watch him. She couldn’t imagine what he was going through right now. To find out that your father had only a few months to live… But as always, he had said very little. Queen Alicia had given them all the news when they arrived from the palace, and Bartie had gone to go find Lyra. Everyone else had remained in the sitting room together, comforting each other with friendly jokes and hugs, taking it in turns to go in and sit with Liam for a while, but Drake had quietly slipped out.

She had excused herself from where she sat between her Mother and her Mama a few moments later, saying that she wanted some air. She knew exactly where Drake would go. He was a creature of habit.

He found comfort in his music. It was his way of channelling his emotions and hearing the sorrow in the melody that he now played, there was no doubting his inner turmoil.

There was a sudden screech as his bow slipped in his hand and he played the wrong note. He slammed the violin back in its case, “Damn it, damn it, damn it!”

“Hey,” Alodie kept her voice calming as she stepped into the room, her heels echoing across the wooden floor as she went to his side.

“Allie,” he said quietly, glancing around at her, tears glazing his eyes, “I didn’t know you were there.”

“I was enjoying the music until you decided that you had some personal vendetta against your violin. It was just a wrong note, Drake. We all do it.”

“I… I can’t make a mistake with this piece,” he told her, “I just…” he brought a hand to run through his now mess of light brown hair, “I…”

She reached across and took his other hand in hers, giving it a gentle squeeze, “It’s me. Just talk to me.”

“I’ve been trying to write a piece for dad,” he whispered as the tears welled up fully in his eyes, “I’ve been working on it for months. I was going to play it for him and Mom to dance to at his birthday, but… he’s not going to have another birthday.”

His voice cracked and a broken sobbed wracked through him and she put her arms around him, holding his tall form close to her. He clung tightly to her, body shaking as he tried to hold back his tears, eventually letting them free from exhaustion.

A little while later they sat together on the floor, backs pressed against the leg of the grand piano as he showed her his notebook in which he had kept the composition for the piece he was working on. She kept her hand on his as he spoke.

Apart from his sister Lyra, Alodie was the only person he confided in. They had been close since his Aunt Hana, her Mama, had taught them both how to play piano when they were children. Drake took to playing in his spare time as Alodie practised even more with her mother, but they would always find an excuse to play together.

He was a young man of few words, always letting his siblings take the spotlight, but with her, he knew there was no competition. It was just the two of them as equals.

“I just can’t get the ending of the song right,” he told her, “And even if I never play this to dad, I have to finish it.”

She nodded understandingly, “Then I’ll help you. I just… need to hear it in my language.”

She climbed gracefully to her feet and slid onto the piano bench. She took the book from his hands so that she could read the notes and she began to play, translating the melody flawlessly from violin strings to piano keys. Drake remained on the floor, hanging on her every note as he watched her, his head cocked curiously to the side, heart melting in gentle realisation.

She brought the song to an end, improvising the last few lines to draw the melody to a close, turning to look at him, “What do you think?”

“You’re beautiful,” he said quietly, eyes suddenly going wide, “The song- The song is beautiful. The… The way you played it… It’s something we can work with.”

He scrambled to his feet to fetch his violin, cheeks burning as she smiled to herself whilst his back was turned. He returned with his violin, clearing his throat awkwardly.

“From the top?” she glanced at him.

He gave a nod, “From the top.”

Together they played their way through the song, the soaring notes of the violin melding seamlessly with the melody of the piano. As they reached Alodie’s improvised ending, he followed her lead and ended the song on one joint lingering note.

He set his violin down and sat beside her, looking at her with the first shred of happiness she had seen all day.

“It’s perfect,” he said, a smile beginning to twitch at the corners of his mouth, “Thank you, Allie… Can I ask you something?”

She sat up a little in her seat, “Of course.”

“If the time comes when I want to perform this; will… will you play it with me?”

She felt her heart sink briefly, but she met his eyes regardless, “Drake, are you sure?”

He never performed his music himself, let alone with someone else.

He nodded, “I want to do this; for Dad. But I don’t think I can do it alone. It… It has to be perfect for him. And you’re the only I trust enough.”

She offered him a smile and took hold of his hand where it rested on the bench beside her, “Then I would be honoured.”

There was a moment of tension between them and Alodie felt herself leaning in closer before he turned away, standing up to grab his violin, “We should practice.”

She glanced back to the piano keys, “Of course.”

***

As the afternoon melted into evening, everyone began to drift off into little groups, Liam insisting that he didn’t want everyone moping around when he was still very much alive. He managed to make it out of bed just as Leo and his family arrived; his wife Kaylee and their twins Lysander and Lily. Neither of them held much of Leo’s features, heavily favouring their mother in terms of looks; paler skin, dark hair, but Lily managed to inherit his baby blue eyes.

Lily stayed close to her parents during the evening, both she and her mother comforting her father at the ill news of her uncle. Lysander on the other hand seemed to take the news even more to heart and disappeared to get some air.

Lyra and Bartie returned from the garden as the sun began to set, joining Percy, Gareth and Natalia for dinner in one of the more comfortable dining rooms. The kitchen prepared them a small buffet of comfort foods and Lyra felt more at ease with Bartie beside her, surrounded by their friends.

Elias closed himself away in his bedroom, trying to take all of the news in. He ate very little of the soup and grilled cheese his mother made sure was sent up for him but appreciated the gesture anyway. He glanced around at the room, his home away from home in his mother’s estate, letting out a shaky sigh as he thought of all of the memories they had here.

They had been here in Valtoria when he had come out to his family. He had been sure of his sexuality since he was eight years old, never taking an interest in girls, not even when puberty hit and girls started taking an interest in the handsome young prince. He had told Lyra and Drake when he was fourteen, and his twin when they were thirteen.

But as he hit sixteen, and suggestions were made about certain expectations concerning dating and marriage, he knew that he had to be honest with his parents. He had sat them down in the area of the garden that was reserved solely for their family and after awkwardly fumbling through words for the first time in his life, he had told them the truth.

The queen’s eyes had filled with tears as she wrapped her son into a tight hug, kissing his messy brown hair and telling him that she was so happy that he felt comfortable enough to talk to them about it, and that she loved him and wanted him to be happy with whoever he loved. She reminded him that he could always talk to them, but that he also had relatives who could give him advice and support that she couldn’t; her half brother James, for whom he had been middle-named, had been happily married to his husband for years, and his godmother Hana as well; she and Kiara had been together for longer than he could even remember.

He had thanked her, then glanced to his father who was still sat, clearly deep in thought. Eli’s heart had clenched in his chest. His father was an accepting man, he knew that, but would it affect his nature for his own son to come out to him? That one of the royal children wouldn’t be able to be used as a marriage prospect for better alliances?

But then the king had stood and pulled his son into a tight hug. He assured him that he would always love him, and he was so proud that he could live his truth comfortably around his family. He told him however he wanted to go forward concerning any future questions from the media or the nobles, it would be Eli’s choice.

Two years later during the party that had been held for his and Leona’s eighteenth birthday, he made a statement to the press, announcing his sexuality for the country and the world to hear and it brought nothing but love and support for the prince and others in Cordonia.

Eli smiled to himself at the memory, tears welling up in his eyes as he remembered that he probably wouldn’t get many more memories like that his with his dad. His wonderful loving father who had taught him to ride a bike, helped pick out his first suit, and pointed out hot guys at parties for him to talk to.

He snapped out of his thoughts as his phone vibrated on the bedside table. He picked it up, expecting it to be a message from one of his sisters, but instead it was from Edward.

Elias, I’m sorry if I’m being presumptuous or bothering you by messaging you on a day like today, but my mother has just told me what’s going on in Valtoria. I can’t begin to imagine what you’re going through, and I know it’s foolish for me to say but I hope you’re okay. - Edward

Eli let out a soft hum of laughter, shaking his head to himself as he typed out a reply.

It’s not presumptuous. We exchanged numbers so we could text… I’m not okay, but I will be. Eventually. I think. But thank you for asking. It means a lot.

A few minutes later his phone went off again.

Elias, I understand what you mean. I have to admit that I was worried when you suddenly rushed off at the picnic, I was really enjoying our talk. – Edward

So was I. I normally find tea parties boring af, but talking to you made it worth it, for however short our time was… btw, you don’t have to sign your name after every text. I know it’s you.

I know, but it shows care to be formal in any situation. – Edward

Care, huh?

You know what I mean. – Edward

Do I?

Now you’re just mocking me. – Edward

Perish the thought… Seriously though, thank you for texting to check in on me. My family is here making sure my beautiful body doesn’t waste away after missing one meal, but it means a lot that you thought to check in.

You missed a meal? Are you sure you’re okay? Eli, you need to make sure you eat.

A grin spread across the prince’s face as he replied.

You forgot to sign your name. Does that mean you care more or less now?

I’m being serious. You need to take care of yourself. A second text came through. – Edward

I’ll be fine. Just haven’t got much of an appetite.

I suppose given the circumstances that can be understood. Just let me know if there’s anything I can do. – Edward

Far short of you sending me a topless pic, I’m good, Eli typed out, smirking to himself, but as he went to delete the message his phone slipped in his hand and he hit the send button. He stared at his phone for a solid minute, swearing under his breath, desperately trying to prevent it from sending but the damage was already done.

He flopped back in his pillows, arm thrown over his face. Of course he had just ruined it with the first guy he had taken a real interest in in ages. Five minutes passed when suddenly his phone went off again.

Is this what you had in mind?

Below was attached a selfie of Edward led in bed, blankets pooled around his waist, torso bare; usually pristine blonde hair slightly ruffled. Eli damn near dropped his phone in shock, mouth suddenly going dry. He hastily typed out a reply

Holy shit, are you trying to kill me?

Edward replied quickly.

I’m nothing if not loyal to my prince’s requests.

Eli hugged his phone to his chest, allowing himself the most shit eating grin ever.

***

In the room across the hall, Leona awoke from the gentle doze she had found herself in, dark hair fanned across the pillow, sheets twisted around her legs. Her eyes opened and she focused on the figure that led beside her who was also awakening.

“We really need to stop meeting like this,” Jack said quietly.

Leona rolled her eyes, “Y’know, that joke gets less funny every time you tell it.”

“And yet you’re smiling.”

“Because I’m looking forward to having my bed back to myself.”

“Come on, Lee. How many more times are we going to do this before you realise that there is something more going on here than just sex?”

She propped herself up on her elbow to look at him, “And what is this exactly, Jack? Because we’ve been sneaking around since we were seventeen and you know that you’re not the only person I’ve slept with.”

“And yet I’m the one you keep coming back to.”

“You’re good in bed, sue me.”

“And that’s why you dragged me in here tonight? Because I’m good in bed?”

“Yes,” she said, “I needed something to distract me from everything else going on, and you are one fantastic distraction.”

“I knew you only used me for my body,” he playfully fainted backwards into his pillows, before he rolled onto his side to look at her, his eyes turning serious for a moment, “You’ve been using me to distract you about your dad for a long time, Lee. There’s a reason you told me what was going on over a year ago before even my dad was allowed to tell me.”

“What do you want to hear, Jack?” she challenged, “That I trust you? That I care about you? Of course, I do, you know I do.”

“Then why has this,” he ran his fingers gently down her cheek, “Never been anything more?”

“You know why, Jack,” she sighed, sitting up, reaching for her dress to pull back on.

“Because you’re a princess and I’m the son of your father’s bodyguard?” he asked, “You remember that your mother used to be a commoner, right?”

“That was different,” she reminded him, “She won her right to be queen by playing along with the media games that eligible bachelors now do for my sister. Natalia should be glad that she isn’t a boy so that she doesn’t have to put up with it.”

He ran a hand through his hair, “Yeah, about that…”

She glanced around at him, “What?”

“Since the Nevrakis family don’t have a male heir to present, it is still their right to sponsor someone else to represent their house. Olivia asked me if I would do it.”

Her mouth fell open, “You have got to be fucking kidding me? You’re in the running to marry my sister?”

“It’s a formality,” he assured her, “You know I don’t want to marry her.”

She scoffed, “Spare me the bullshit. Who wouldn’t want to marry golden girl Lyra? Win the perfect girl’s hand and get the crown whilst you’re at it.”

“Lee, hey,” he said, sitting up to join her as she angrily began to yank her clothes on. He grabbed her hand and turned her to look at him, “I don’t want any part of this. I’ll jump through some hoops, ride some horses and sail a boat or two, snap some good pictures and represent the Nevrakis family for my sister’s sake if nothing else, and then in a few weeks everything will be back to the way it should be.”

She met his eyes and he watched her relax for a split second before she yanked her hand out of his grasp, “Just get your clothes on and find your own room for tonight. I want to be alone.”

“Lee…”

“I said I want to be alone,” she hissed under her breath, “Just go.”

He pulled his clothes on, glanced back at her one last time, then left the room.

Come the morning, all four Rys children awoke in their separate bedrooms, minds split between the harrowing news of their father and the revelations that had occurred the night before. Whatever came of it, they knew that today life had to go on, and with it; the social season. Which meant that they were headed to Lythikos for the Winter Ball.

#the royal romance #liam x mc #enchanting #writing #trr

12 notes · View notes

camillemontespan · 4 years

Text

ten years from now [AU. drake walker x camille montespan] [part nineteen: the king of 4th of july]

Master List

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

'Alright, so we have everything for the sangria, hot dogs, burgers, all of the carbs, pain au chocolate for Gisele as she doesn't eat much at the moment, whiskey.. Am I forgetting anything?' Bianca asked Drake and Savannah as she studied their newly bought groceries for the 4th of July celebrations.

'You've got everything, mom,' Savannah assured her.

Bianca smiled. 'All we need now are fireworks but Drake is going into town to buy some today, my helpful little boy!'

'Mom..' Drake groaned. 'I'm not a little boy..'

'But you're so helpful!' Bianca cooed, gently patting his cheek.

Drake rolled his eyes. He was indeed picking up fireworks today and he had enlisted Camille to be his shopping buddy.

'I'm gonna go pick up Camille,' Drake said, eager to get away. He gave Bianca a quick hug and turned to leave the kitchen, ignoring Savannah who was making kissing noises at his retreating back.

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

Drake collected Camille in his pick up truck. He smiled as he watched her leave her house and make her way towards him. She looked beautiful today, even though she was only wearing a simple white t-shirt and denim shorts with Converse. Drake always thought she looked beautiful.

They chatted easily as Drake drove them into town. They had become closer since Camille had been back in Texas. Their baby steps mantra was working. Forcing themselves to take it slow had deepened their connection but Drake was still fully aware that Camille had only just come out of an engagement. The ball was entirely in her court.

'Here's our list,' Drake said, handing her a sheet of paper as he drove. 'We need to get all of these fireworks.'

'Jesus, Drake, are you buying up all the firework supply in Texas?!' Camille cried, staring in bewilderment at the list that detailed 15 types of firework Drake desperately wanted.

Drake rolled his eyes. 'It's the 4th of July, Camille! We gotta go hard!'

Camille let out a throaty laugh, which made Drake's heart flip. 'Jackson would be so proud of you,' she told him.

Drake smiled. 'I'm just trying to carry on his legacy, you know? He was the king of 4th of July. I'm not letting that slide.'

They drove on in comfortable silence until Camille broke it.

'You could be the new king of 4th of July, you know..' she suggested in a soft voice. 'I'm sure Jackson would be happy to pass the mantel to you.'

Drake chuckled. 'One day,' he replied simply. 'It all hinges on tonight.'

'I'm sure it will be perfect,' Camille assured him.

Drake tried to stop himself from turning pink but he couldn't. Camille smiled at his embarrassment and reached out to squeeze his hand.

'I'll help you,' she said. 'We can be a team!'

Drake grinned, his cheeks turning back to a regular colour. He stole a glance at Camille.

'We always are,' he said softly.

It was now Camille's turn to turn pink.

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

Camille had been horrified when she saw that Drake was intending to purchase M-80s which were used by the military.

‘Isn’t this a little.. Over the top?’

Drake had stared at her, unamused. ‘No such thing as over the top for 4th of July, Montespan,’ he told her seriously. So, Camille tried her best to keep her mouth shut and helped Drake purchase a vast selection of fireworks, some legal, some… not.

‘I am a terrible, terrible person,’ she muttered as she waited for Drake to finish purchasing an illegal firework. ‘A fucking accomplice.’

‘I can hear you,’ Drake said dryly, giving her serious side eye as he waited for the cashier to bag up his fireworks. Camille bit her tongue, making Drake smirk.

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

They arrived back at the ranch to find it decked out in American flag bunting. Bianca had set up the barbeque while Savannah was decorating the long wooden table for their guests, covering the surface with red, white and blue streamers.

‘You’re back!’ Bianca cried, clapping her hands excitedly. ‘How was firework shopping?’

‘We came, we saw, we conquered,’ Drake replied breezily, setting the bags of fireworks down. Savannah ripped opened the bags, eager to see what he had bought and her face lit up with a wide smile as she spotted the M-80s. The Walkers adored 4th of July and it was all down to Jackson.

‘I’m going to pick up my grandma,’ Camille told them. ‘We’ll be back soon, ready to party!’

‘That’s the spirit!’ Bianca cheered.

Drake followed Camille out to the front door. She turned to face him and gave him a sly smile. ‘I’ve seen a different side to you today,’ she told him. ‘Kinda scary.’

Drake chuckled. ‘Sorry. I get all excited for the fireworks. I didn’t mean to make you uncomfortable.’

‘I know I was a little funny about it,’ Camille admitted. ‘But this is your day. If you want to go crazy with fireworks, then you go crazy with fireworks. It’s what your dad would have wanted.’

Drake smiled bashfully. ‘I just want to remember him in the best way,’ he said quietly, shuffling on his feet. ‘This is how I remember him. I get carried away, sure, but it’s worth it.’

There was a pause. Drake wondered if he had been too sentimental.

Before he could react, Camille leaned up and kissed him.

She tasted of watermelon lip balm and lemonade.

As quickly as she had kissed him, she pulled away. Drake was staring at her with wide eyes. ‘What was that for?’ he asked, his voice hitching..

Camille blushed. ‘I just wanted to kiss you.’

Drake couldn’t argue with that. Smiling, she said goodbye and left the porch, leaving Drake staring after her with a dopey grin on his face.

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

Camille and Gisele came back an hour later armed with champagne. Gisele had insisted on bringing the fizz and she also insisted on dressing as elegantly as possible; she was wearing a blue linen trouser suit and her silver hair was coiffed to perfection. She had tied red, white and blue bows around her crutches as a way to commemorate the day.

‘You will have to come over for Bastille Day!’ Gisele said as she hugged Drake. ‘We don’t make quite as much effort but we do watch the fireworks light up the Eiffel Tower on our computer and we drink champagne! Would you like to come over for that?’

Drake cast a glance at Camille who gave him a shrug, trying to appear casual although really, she quite liked the idea. Drake smiled warmly. ‘That sounds perfect.’

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

The day passed in a flurry of laughter, eating and drinking. While Savannah played with Bartie on the grass, Gisele and Bianca drank champagne and talked about everything without pausing for breath.

Drake and Camille had changed into swimwear and jumped into the lake, screaming as they did so. When they broke the water’s surface, they swam towards the edge of the lake near the jetty, their fingers brushing each other’s skin.

Drake gently pushed Camille up against the jetty, his eyes roaming her face. Her dark hair was slicked back and water dripped from her eyelashes. The sunshine cast a golden glow over her skin; she looked like a mermaid from the deep.

‘You’re staring at me,’ Camille said, interrupting his thoughts.

Drake smirked. ‘Can’t help it.’

He reached out to graze her jawline with his finger. Camille’s cheeks turned pink but she didn’t push him away. Drake floated closer so their chests were flush against each other. Camille ran her hands down his muscled arms, tracing his veins with her finger.

‘I’m so happy you’re here today,’ Drake murmured, not taking his eyes off hers.

‘Thank you for the invite,’ she replied quietly. ‘It’s been so fun.’

Drake’s eyes softened. Feeling brave, he leaned towards her, his lips opening slightly. Camille’s mouth parted and their lips met softly, tentatively.

They were hidden from view. Nobody could see them kissing; with that knowledge, Drake increased the pressure, turning the kiss from one of softness and light into an urgent, intoxicating embrace.

Camille pulled away first.

‘Baby steps,’ she gasped. ‘I know I kissed you earlier but that was different. Nothing could happen-’

‘I get it,’ Drake interrupted, breathing heavily. ‘Baby steps.’

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

That night, when the twilight sky turned a deep navy, Drake set up the fireworks, animatedly explaining which ones were which to the party. Savannah looked like she wanted to step in and let some off herself; Bianca was filling up her glass, tipsy from sangria; and Gisele was nodding with a smile on her face, trying to look interested when really, she had no idea what he was talking about.

‘This one makes a KABOOM noise that you can hear from three miles away!’ he said, his voice coming out in a quick flurry, ‘and this one takes its time before it suddenly explodes into gold dust! Oh my God, okay, look at this one, this one is the shit!’

Camille watched him as he showed off the fireworks, unable to stop herself from smiling. She loved seeing Drake in his element; here, he was confident and self assured. He was determined to make this a spectacle - and it would be- but the way he talked so passionately about the fireworks made her want to listen to him forever.

She realised that she always wanted to listen to him when he talked about fireworks. She wanted to be here, every 4th of July, listening as he showed them off. She wanted to watch him, giddy and childlike, completely at odds with his rough exterior. She wanted to see him be happy.

Camille sipped her whiskey, trying to push down the realisation. But she couldn’t take her eyes off Drake now and she didn’t tear her gaze away when his eyes met hers. For that moment, he was stripped back, laid bare to her. He was the Drake Walker she had grown up with and fell in love with. He was lit up like the fireworks he adored; shining brightly for all to see.

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

The fireworks had lit up the sky in a colourful display of gold, pink, blue and red. Drake worked hard, making sure each one went off at the right time, while everyone else oohed and ahhed.

‘Fuck, that one was incredible!’ he hollered.

When the display finished up, he topped up his glass with whiskey and sat beside Camille.

‘You want a blanket?’ he asked her, seeing that her knees were pulled up to her chest and her arms were wrapped around her body. Not waiting for her to answer, Drake found a blanket and wrapped it around her shoulders. ‘Can’t have you getting cold,’ he told her gently. ‘Not on my watch.’

Camille rested her head on his shoulder, closing her eyes as she savoured this moment. The whole day had been incredible. Everything she had loved about Texas had been pulled to the forefront of her mind and she felt more content and happy than she had in months. Now, she felt her worries slide off her shoulders and all she could think about was where to go from here.

‘Ahem, attention..’ Bianca announced, standing up. She turned to Savannah. ‘Let’s do it, baby girl.’

Savannah giggled and rushed indoors, peaking everyone’s curiosity. Bianca turned to look at Drake and gave him a wink.

‘Mom? What’s happening?’

Bianca ignored his question. ‘Following a simply spectacular 4th of July celebration, I am pleased to announce..’

The doors opened and Savannah came back outside, holding something shiny in her hands. As she got closer, Drake realised what it was.

A plastic gold crown set on top of a cushion.

Bianca smiled at her son. ‘I am pleased to announce that my son, my baby boy, Drake Walker, is now the new King of the 4th of July!’

Gisele and Camille burst into applause. Drake stared at his mother, unable to form words. Seeing this, Bianca made her way towards him and crouched down to look up into his face. She placed her hand on his cheek and smiled a wobbly smile.

‘Your dad would be so proud of your efforts today,’ she said, her voice cracking. ‘You went above and beyond to make this party one that we’ll never forget. He always wanted you to love 4th of July and here you are. He would want you to be the new king.’

Savannah held out the cushion to Camille. ‘Will you do the honours?’ she asked.

Camille stood up and adopted a regal pose, throwing her shoulders back. ‘I would love to,’ she said grandly, making Drake laugh. She took the crown and stood in front of Drake.

‘Drake Walker,’ she said, trying not to laugh. ‘Do you accept the responsibility of being the king of 4th of July?’

Drake chuckled. ‘I do.’

‘And do you swear to uphold the values of 4th of July and to make all other 4th of July celebrations pale into insignificance?’

‘I swear.’

‘And do you swear to wear this crown every 4th of July because you will look adorable wearing it and I need to take a picture of you?’

Drake rolled his eyes. ‘I swear.’

Satisfied, Camille placed the crown on top of his head. Everyone erupted into cheers and applause, chanting Drake’s name.

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

Savannah, Bianca and Gisele soon started to yawn. ‘I should get going,’ Gisele said. ‘I need my beauty sleep.’

Camille stopped playing cards with Drake to look at her grandmother. ‘I’ll come with you-’

‘No, mon petit chou, you stay here and play cards,’ Gisele interrupted. ‘You’re having fun.’

Bianca stood up. ‘I’ll take you down the road.’

Savannah eyed Drake and Camille, who were cosied up together with a whiskey bottle between them, decks of cards in their hands. Drake was currently winning.

‘I’ll come with you too,’ Savannah said.

They left Drake and Camille in the garden; the two of them didn’t mind. They were enjoying each other’s company.

‘And that,’ Drake said, banging his cards on the table, ‘is how you win at cards!’

‘You’re such a smug bastard!’ Camille protested. ‘A king would never rub his fortunes in his subject’s faces!’

Drake smirked. ‘This one does.’

Camille swatted his hand playfully, jumping when his fingers trapped hers in his. Their hands remained clasped.

‘Wanna go down to the jetty?’ Drake asked her softly. ‘It’s our spot. Thought we could have some peace and quiet.’

Camille smiled. ‘That sounds nice.’

They abandoned their cards and wandered down towards the jetty, still holding hands. The moonlight bounced off Drake’s crown, making him look quite fabulous.

They reached the jetty and settled down. Drake leaned back on his hands, breathing in the warm Texas air. Camille looked down at her hands, now no longer in Drake’s, and she bit her lip. Sensing a change in her, Drake looked at her steadily.

‘What’s up?’

Camille smiled. She forced herself to meet his eyes. Her heart was hammering in her chest and she was in danger of word vomiting; this was not the time to word vomit. She needed to be clear. She needed to take a breath and tell him that in no uncertain terms-

‘I love you,’ she whispered.

Drake’s eyes widened. He stared at Camille, unable to form an appropriate response. What happened to the baby steps? Or had the baby steps worked? Had she made her choice now and he was it for her? She had chosen him?

Camille couldn’t work out what he was thinking. And so, the word vomit burst out of her.

‘I love you,’ she said quickly. ‘I guess I always have. But ever since I saw you again, I felt a pull towards you and I kept trying to push it down until I couldn’t do it anymore. I made some bad decisions along the way, I hurt Liam, I hurt you.. But I feel clearer now. I have clarity. I’m home. You are my home, Drake. I know we were trying to do baby steps and I’m so happy we managed to because it’s only made us closer and I’ve learned so much more about you now. But I don’t want baby steps anymore. I want to dive in and just be with you, all of you. I watched you tonight and you were so bright and happy.. I felt so much love for you right there. I want to see you be the 4th of July King every year. I want to help you buy fireworks. I want to host 4th July parties and go crazy and drink whiskey and sing bad songs and lose at cards. I want to celebrate it with you every year. I want it all. I want you-’

Drake’s mouth crashed against hers with such a force that his crown fell off. Camille made a startled sound until she realised what was happening; he was kissing her. He was kissing her desperately, urgently, with all the pent up frustration and love that he had kept cooped up in his heart for so long. His hands raked through her hair, bunching it into clumps, and he held her close, as if he was trying to keep her together.

‘I love you too,’ he murmured against her lips. ‘Always have, always will.’

#drake x camille

42 notes · View notes