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#choices fanfiction
choicesprompts · 7 months
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SMUTEMBER 2023
Please join choices prompts in making September very, very smutty.
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There's really only one rule here: Make it smutty. Real smut or cringey lemons, it's up to you. Submissions are open until 11:59 p.m. CST September 30th, 2023.
To ensure you get reblogged and added to the master list, make sure to do the following:
Tag @choicesprompts
hashtag #choicespromtps and #smutember2023
Don't forget to tell us which prompt you're using!
Prompts don't have to be done in order or used on any particular day. Pick and choose as you like, and submit whenever. You may combine prompts. You may have more than one submission per prompt if you like.
That's it! Go forth, create and be great!
Here are the prompts:
We’ve got time
The morning after
Let me taste you
I’ve never done this before
Let’s swap
Fantasy
Messy
Sweet and slow
Hard and fast
Caught in the act
Voyeurism
Three is not a crowd
Teeth and claws
Clothes stay on
We shouldn’t be doing this…
We just met and this is crazy….
Reclaiming (Make up sex)
Edging
Shower sex
Angry sex
Shhh, you have to keep quiet
Mark me, make me yours
You’re mine
Worship
Punishment
Self love
Jealousy/possession
I can make you forget him
Just friends?
I didn't know I was into that (Kink unlocked)
Bonus Prompts:
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@dcbbw @bebepac @karahalloway @harleybeaumont @aussiegurl1234 @alj4890 @nestledonthaveone
@twinkleallnight  @kat-tia801 @missameliep @jerzwriter @twinkle-320
@argylemnwrites  @katedrakeohd @peonierose @sillydg
@jerzwriter @choicesficwriterscreations
@choicesmonthlychallenge
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liaromancewriter · 2 months
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Daddy’s Girl
Premise: A poignant moment between father and daughter after the poison attack.
Book: Open Heart Pairing: Ethan Ramsey x F!MC (Cassie Valentine); feat. Robert Valentine (OC) Rating/Category: Teen. Angsty Fluff. Words: 1,510
A/N: Submission for @choicesjanuary2024 day 16 prompt "relationships". I'm also using @choicesflashfics week 69, prompt 3
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Robert Valentine had a plan. He’d graduate from college, sail around the world and then settle down to live out the Valentine legacy of working in the family business. His father also had a plan, and it featured only two of the three items on his list.
Unable to say no to the strict man who’d raised him, Robert gave up his dream of feeling the wind in his hair on the open seas. A chance encounter in Greenwich during summer break from Wharton further altered his plans.
A year later, he was married to a woman who not only shared his love of adventure but actively encouraged his carefree side. Becoming parents hadn’t been part of the plan, at least not so soon after getting married. But fate had other ideas.
As they stared down at the two tiny humans behind the glass of the nursery at Newport Hospital, he gently hooked one arm around Olivia’s waist. The boy was restless while the girl was asleep, their hands lightly touching.
“They’re beautiful, aren’t they?” Olivia murmured, still tired, her head resting on his shoulder.
Even though they’d known Olivia was carrying multiples, seeing them was a different reality. On top of that, the twins had arrived a month early. They still hadn’t landed on names or completed the nursery in the townhouse they’d bought near his work.
“We should come up with appropriate names,” he said quietly after a while. “Can’t keep calling them Thing One and Thing Two.”
“Imagine the shock on our parents’ faces if we put that on their birth certificates,” Olivia teased, her eyes swimming with laughter.
Robert chuckled, folding his wife in his arms. Being a father would change him; it was inevitable. But he didn’t have to give up his dreams, just adjust them for two more.
Now, all these years later, Robert watched his daughter’s even breathing as she lay sleeping on the hospital bed and wished he could turn back time to when she was a baby, tucked safe and sound in his arms.
The last two days had been harrowing and emotional. The panicked call from his son in the middle of the night, the long flight to Boston from Paris, the uncertainty about Cassie’s condition, and the anger when he and Olivia were denied entrance into the hospital.
But that was all over now, he sighed in relief. His daughter was no longer on death’s door. It would take time, but he’d been assured she would recover. If he thought Cassie wouldn’t be pissed at him for doubting her precious Dr. Ramsey, Robert would’ve whisked her off to the best specialists in the world for a second opinion.
Lost in thought, he didn’t notice Cassie’s eyelids fluttering as she slowly awoke. But he heard her whimpers and the sound of sheets rustling. He was out of the chair and by her bedside seconds before her eyes drifted open.
“Hey, kiddo,” Robert smiled softly, taking her hand.
“Daddy?” Cassie said in a confused tone, her voice reed thin and somewhat raspy.
She struggled to sit up, and he placed a steadying hand on her back while pressing a control button on the guardrail to raise the bed’s head. He adjusted the pillow to support her neck and poured a glass of water when she started coughing.
“Better?”
When she nodded, Robert set the glass down on the table. He turned away to drag the visitor’s chair closer to the bed and sat down, covering her hand with his palm. They smiled at each other, matching green eyes.
“You haven’t called me kiddo since I was ten,” she commented, smiling despite the sudden discomfort under her sternum.
The machines she was hooked up to briefly beeped before settling down as the pain subsided. Robert stroked the back of her hand with his thumb.
“Old habits,” he said, taking his eyes off the flashing numbers on the monitor. “You haven’t called me Daddy since you and Max decided that word was for babies.”
“Well, I feel weak as a baby right now, so that could be the reason,” she joked, and then tears filled her eyes, dripping down her cheeks. “I was so scared I’d never see you or Mom again. ”
Robert leaned in and wiped the tears away with his fingers, shushing her the way he used to when she was five and had a nightmare.
“When I was in that room, all I could think of was the last time you took us sailing,” she continued in a watery voice. “It was just before I moved to Boston. The fresh ocean breeze tossing my hair, the taste of salt on our lips as water crashed around us. Max cursing as the unruly waves rocked the boat and almost tipped us over. Your laughter booming in the wind. That feeling of truly being alive.”
Leaving the chair, he sat on the side of the bed and folded her into his arms, mindful of the drip lines and wires.
“You are alive, Cassie honey,” he whispered over and over as sobs wracked her body, and she burrowed her face into his chest. “You’re here, safe in my arms.”
Eventually, the storm passed, and he returned to his seat. The comforting silence stretched, broken only by the beeps and hums of the machines.
“Where’s Mom?”
“At the hotel, hopefully getting some rest,” Robert explained. “She barely slept these last couple of days. Max, too. Your brother pretends to be invincible, but he was running on fumes by the time we got here.”
“Maybe if he drank coffee every now and then,” Cassie said with a wry twist of her lips.
Robert shook his head in amusement and chuckled, well familiar with his children’s opposing views on this matter and their needling of each other as a result.
“Have you seen Ethan?”
“Yes, he dropped by an hour ago to check on you,” Robert replied, hiding his disquiet at how Cassie’s eyes locked on the closed door, waiting for the other man to walk in.
He steepled his index fingers under his chin as he sprawled on the chair, stretching his legs out under the bed. “I take it you’re both still hiding your relationship?”
Robert was glad Cassie at least had the good sense to look abashed. He wasn’t happy with the turn of events, but his wife was convinced it was the real deal and they should give the couple space to work it out. Olivia’s instincts were flawless, which was the only reason he exercised restraint.
“What do you think of him?” she asked, her eyes beseeching him to understand. “You didn’t say anything during or after the weekend in Newport. I really want you to like him, Daddy.”
“He’s certainly different from Jackson or anyone else you’ve dated before,” he said neutrally. “Older, reserved, and perhaps a little austere for my carefree daughter.”
“That’s just the side he shows everyone else,” Cassie said, her voice full of conviction. “He’s different when it’s just the two of us. Granted, our relationship is still evolving, but he cares for me, deeply.”
“I know, Cassie,” Robert said, remembering the tender look in the other man’s eyes earlier. “This isn’t up for debate. But as your father, I’m allowed to be concerned. Gossip from a workplace romance is rarely kind to the woman, especially when there’s a power imbalance.”
He held up a hand when she opened her mouth to protest. “You still have two years left in your training here. All I ask is that you be careful and protect your reputation if not your heart.”
Before Cassie could respond, there was a perfunctory knock on the door, and then it swung open. Ethan Ramsey crossed the threshold and suddenly stopped, causing the nurse accompanying him to crash into his back, the tray in her hand rattling before she steadied it.
“Sorry to interrupt,” Ethan said, his brows furrowing as if sensing he’d stepped into a quagmire. “We need to draw Dr. Valentine’s blood, check her vitals and run a few tests.”
“Yes, of course,” he said, pushing the chair back and standing up. “I’ll let you get on with it while I grab a coffee and check in on Olivia.”
Robert turned to smile down at Cassie. “Why don’t I get you something to eat?”
“Well, I am feeling a bit peckish,” Cassie mused, a teasing twinkle in her eyes. “Hospital food sucks.”
“I’ll ask the chef at the hotel to whip up your favorites.” Robert leaned down and kissed her forehead. “Be good, and no more heroics.”
He nodded at Ethan, who came to stand across from him on the other side of the bed. He noted the softness in Cassie’s eyes, the concern in Ethan’s and felt like a third wheel.
As Robert left the room, he glanced at the nurse, oblivious to their situation, and hoped Cassie heeded his advice. Ethan seemed decent enough, but if he hurt Cassie…. Well, when it came to his children, all bets were off.
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All Fics & Edits: @bluebelle08 @coffeeheartaddict2 @crazy-loca-blog @lucy-268 @jerzwriter @lady-calypso @mainstreetreader @peonierose @potionsprefect @queencarb @quixoticdreamer16 @rookiemartin @socalwriterbee @tessa-liam @trappedinfanfiction
Submissions: @choicesficwriterscreations @openheartfanfics
Ethan & Cassie only: @cariantha @custaroonie @youlookappropriate @zealouscanonindeer
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dutifullynuttywitch · 3 months
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Pancake mornings
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Takes place after Blades of Light and Shadow 2 (Pixelberry Choices)
Pairing: Mal Volari X f!mc (Autumn Nightbloom)
Rating: Teen
Word count: 650
Summary: Mal tries his hand at making Heroes of Morella pancakes ... and Autumn considers more legitimate career choices for her handsome rogue.
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Autumn awakens to the sweet smell of pancakes and peals of laughter coming up from the kitchen two floors below. She smiles at the novelty of normalcy. Something she never thought she’d have again.
Of course, there was still work to do. She and her friends continued to travel the newly merged realm to help the communities rebuild and fight off all manner of shadow beasts and fantastic creatures. But there were also moments of calm in-between, which she relished. She spent most of those weeks with Mal at the orphanage, making time to catch up with Nia, visiting friends, and Kade, when he wasn’t off to Zaradun with Cherta. Though she kept her room at the Palace, a standing invitation by King Arlan for the Saviour of the Realm, Autumn had pretty much moved into Mal’s cozy attic room.
She slips out of bed and quickly dresses, making her way downstairs towards the joyful ruckus.
“Morning, kit!” Mal calls out from the stove, flipping pancakes dangerously high into the air, to the delight of a dozen beaming kids gathered around.
“Morning, handsome.” She sidles next to him and places a soft kiss on his cheek. “Whatcha cooking up?”
“I call these my Heroes of Morella pancakes!” He proudly declares, to squeals of excited laughter from several kids.
She looks at a growing pile of deformed – faces? Some with elongated ears, others with points resembling horns, others just formless masses – and snorts. “Well, these certainly won’t win you any talent contests. Though I’ll give you points for originality, your magnificence.”
“Hey! I’d like to see you try to do better.” He mock-pouts.
“Sure thing. Watch and learn.” She smirks and grabs a ladle, dropping a dollop of batter onto the hot pan. She concentrates her magic, shaping the sizzling pancake into a perfect nesper shape.
“Oh, come on! That’s cheating!” Mal splutters, scandalized.
“And since when are you concerned about cheating, my handsome scoundrel?” She smirks mischievously, starting a new pile with her perfectly shaped pancakes.
"Since I'm not the one doing it!"
“I want Autumn’s pancakes! They’re so pretty.” “Me too!” “Me too!” The kids clutter around the counter, ooh-ing and ah-ing at Autumn’s growing pile of perfectly shaped heroes and nespers.
Mal huffs vexedly but relents with a magnanimous bow, “You seem to have won this battle, my fair lady.”
“oh, but you had the brilliant idea, so I say we share in the spoils of victory this time.” She sneaks a quick kiss, a promise of more to come.
He grins at her cockily, pressing himself against her back and whispering in her ear “That, I can get behind.”
“Mal!” She bats at him, eyes wide, and distracts herself with plating batches of pancakes for the anxiously waiting children.
Soon, the kids are settled around the dining table, munching away at their hero pancakes in a boisterous cacophony of talks and laughter. Autumn slips back to the kitchen and into Mal’s arms, hugging him lightly. He returns the embrace, sighing contentedly.
“Any plans today?”
“Well, I’ve gotten word that our dear friend Lord Thurgood has recently 'procured' a sword from a temple that belonged to the shadow realm. Apparently, it’s got some engravings that may or may not predate the Elven civilization.” He catches her scandalized look and adds on quickly “… for research purposes! It’s rumored to have magical properties… I’m sure Nia and elf boy would love to examine it.”
“And once they’re done researching…”
“Weeeeell… it’ll be worth a pretty penny.”
“Mal! Do I have to remind you how your last heist in Thurgood manor nearly ended in disaster?”
“Eh! I'd say it ended pretty good, considering I made it out with the statue and … made out with you.” He smirks devilishly, stealing a heated kiss.
Autumn sighs, biting her lower lip to hide an amused smile. “You know, Mal, as a hero of the realm, you should really think about other more legitimate avenues of employment.”
“… Such as…?”
“I mean you’re a pretty good cook, when you’re not trying to get creative with your pancakes.”
“I have to be, since you’re so godawful at it!” He smirks, tempering the criticism with a loving kiss.
“Well, I can’t be good at everything. But you could work at the bakery with Vivi.”
“Hmm… kneading dough all day, kind of like this…?” He grabs her waist, bringing her flush against him and lowers his hands to massage her backside, earning a soft moan.
"Well you are very good with your hands..." she trails off, kissing lightly down his neck.
"I love my sister and Vivi, don't get me wrong, kit, but I doubt they'd enjoy seeing me everyday."
"Well you're great with a weapon - for fighting!" she quickly specifies, growing scarlet at his suggestive leer. "You could join the Whitetower guards."
"Autumn, my love, the king may have absolved me of my past crimes, but I can promise you the Whitetower guards remember me very well, and we're not exactly on the friendliest of terms... any other brilliant ideas, kit?"
She looks up at him, pondering, then sighs.
"Okay your magnificence, at what time are we headed over to Thurgood Manor tonight?"
Mal flashes her a dazzling grin, draping an arm across her shoulders as he walks her into the dining room.
"Well, see, I was thinking we could sneak in right at the change of guard..."
Autumn smiles to herself. Normalcy, with just a dash of danger and adventure. This, to her, was perfection.
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stars-are-within-me · 3 months
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Reflections
Book: Blades of Light and Shadow
Character: Aerin Valleros
Premise: Aerin and his conflicts.
Word count: 559 words
Warnings: N/A
A/N: I was thinking about that scene from ch 8 where the fortune teller talks about the conflicts of his past and so wrote a fic about his existential crisis. I hope you like it!
Time is a construct. It is built on dynamic moments. Which helps to distinguish between the past and the present and look forward to the future with hope. Alas, this wasn’t the case with Aerin. It had been a year since his arrest. His present was the same as yesterday; his past slowly but steadily ate him up like a disease spreading through him, defiling him, and he knew his future would be similar to his monotonous present. This state was a breeding ground for pessimism; a year in isolation would do that to someone. He was seated on his wooden bed attached to the wall. The dark pallor of his skin had disappeared, due to reasons Aerin could barely grasp, but this wasn’t his primary concern. It was a question that had consumed his mind for weeks:
Who was he?
Souls that wander the earth have a deep sense of purpose etched in their veins. They are striving for something, be it to make ends meet or just to get through the day. There is a fire inside them.
What was his purpose? Was it revenge that fueled him? Was it all that he was? A product of the neglect and abuse he experienced as a child.
Since every card had been dealt with, where did his journey end?
 As an empty, discarded vessel, his days spent inside the four walls, driven crazy by the mania?
His actions had been a result of pain. retaliation of sorts. Sometimes, when an individual is guided by their emotions, they walk down roads unbeknownst to them. Their hearts thumped with the need only they could feel; logic was out of the question, but once the emotion had played with them, it left them stranded. Leaving the victims with queries, it was as if they had woken up from a dream. This was one of those times.
He had chosen this path. He may not regret Baldur’s demise, but he couldn’t help but ask himself: Is this what he always wanted? There wasn’t any satisfaction. There was just a void of contempt inside him. He hated what he had become in the process. Sometimes, when he would look at himself in the mirror, he wouldn’t recognize himself. He was a stranger to himself.
Maybe this was the cost of being guided by your feelings. By your needs. Maybe his loss of control led to this, but what could he have done? He was hurting. There was no one by his side; he was all alone. The perfect target for the Dreadlord.
He sighed and got up. He walked towards the barred window to his left and looked outside. Seasons had changed from beautiful springs to scorching summers to ruthless winters to orange autumns. He had seen it all in his confinement, and he always contemplated
Could he ever change?
Or was he beyond repair?
Change seemed like a star, out of his reach. Maybe this is what he is supposed to be. A broken version of himself marred with self-loath forever and ever. And despite the truth staring at him, he allowed himself to be blinded by the brief glimmer of hope. A rare occurrence in these trying times is that one day he will identify himself as something better than what he is now. And that he would no longer be an alien to himself
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Blades tag: @baldwinboy5ive , @malthemagnifisent , @lilyoffandoms , @lovehugsandcandy , @oh-so-youre-a-nerd , @storyofmychoices
Others: @choicesficwriterscreations , @choicesbookclub
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alwaysmychoices · 3 months
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Making a Run For it
Synopsis: Today's the day that Ethan makes a run for it. He's leaving Edenbrook and moving to California before Charlie can ruin her career by running away first. When Charlie discovers his plan, she has to ask herself whether she really wants to lose him -- and when she realizes she wants him back, she has to find a way to convince him to stay.
Chapter 41 of the “with and without” series
Previous Series: “a weekend with dr. ramsey”
Pairing: Dr. Ethan Ramsey x MC (Charlotte “Charlie” Greene)
Words: 5.1k (sorry but also you're welcome)
Rating: Teen (language)
Also available on AO3 & Wattpad (link in Masterlist)
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It was hardly noon, but Charlie was already nursing her third cup of coffee. After texting with Ethan a few nights earlier, she’d barely slept. She was too aware of the absence in the other side of her bed, and no amount of coffee could make up for the sleepless nights she’d spent vacillating between making a run for it and showing up half-naked on his doorstep, begging for an ill-advised ceasefire.
Charlie thought it would help to focus on her new life waiting for her when she left Edenbrook and escaped this vicious back-and-forth. She searched for new apartments, scheduled flights, and sought someone to sublet her current place while she was away. But nothing could drive Ethan from her mind, nor could any amount of self-restraint stop her from drunk-purchasing new lingerie in Ethan’s favorite color just in case.
The longer she stood there, the more she lamented the lonely corner she’d backed herself into. But life crisis or not, Charlie had charts and paperwork to finish, and that required all the attention she could muster.
Charlie rubbed at her eyes, trying to focus on her charting, but the idea of a power nap in the call room was increasingly appealing. Just when Charlie was ready to cave, she was startled by a nervous-looking intern barreling towards her.
"Dr. Greene?” the intern – Amanda Stevens – called out to her, like she was afraid Charlie would escape before giving her advice. Admittedly, Charlie wished she had.
“Yeah?” Charlie raised her eyebrows, releasing the dream of a nap.
“I was wondering what I should do with the newest test results for the patient in Room 255.”
“255?” Charlie repeated. That was Ethan’s patient, and it said so on the chart. Charlie should know – she’d asked to be taken off the case last week to avoid any unnecessary interactions with Ethan.
Charlie was surprised to hear Stevens ask such an easy question. It was nearly the end of her first year of residency, and Stevens was known to be capable. Why was she still asking questions about where to send test results this late in the game?
Still, Charlie remembered how it felt to be a terrified first-year, so she tried to avoid sounding dismissive as she replied, “Dr. Ramsey’s the attending. Just send it his way if you’re unsure.”
“I know,” Dr. Stevens blushed, “I normally wouldn’t ask, but the system says Dr. Ramsey isn’t here for the next few days and to direct his patients to another doctor. But he was here this morning, and he didn’t say anything about leaving. Dr. Ramsey never goes anywhere. For the last few months, he’s spent more time here than at home. I was wondering if it was a glitch.”
Charlie frowned. It stung to be reminded that, since their breakup, Ethan had become a hermit in his office, but it wasn’t untrue. And anyways, Ethan never left without leaving detailed instructions on what to do in his absence. It was almost insulting how detailed his instructions would be – like he trusted no one but himself to care for his patients.
He wasn’t the type to leave without warning.
Or at least, leave without warning his coworkers. It wouldn’t be the first time he left without telling Charlie.
“Since you know him so well, I thought you might know what’s going on,” Stevens added, as if this would ease her odd request.
It didn’t.
Charlie didn’t know how to respond to that, so she didn’t. Instead, she pulled up the patient file to check for herself, and she saw the same notice – informing any reader that Dr. Ramsey was on vacation and to direct his patient materials to Dr. Carrick until he returned.
Vacation? Charlie’s face twisted. Ethan didn’t go on vacations.
“Give the results to Dr. Carrick and be prepared to present if necessary. If it’s a glitch, Carrick should be able to tell you,” Charlie stammered out, still staring at the screen.
Satisfied, Dr. Stevens hurried off to Dr. Carrick’s office, leaving a confused Charlie in her wake.
What the fuck is going on? Charlie thought. She knew Ethan was here – she saw him this morning doing rounds with the interns. Would he really go on vacation without telling her? Could he stomach leaving work without providing nauseatingly detailed instructions to the interns?
The mystery was too enticing to ignore. She knew it was dangerous to go to Ethan’s office – there was a 50/50 shot of having sex on his desk or screaming at him so loud the whole hospital heard. And they hadn’t been able to interact without exchanging longing glances in days. But Charlie had to know what was going on.
Closing out her paperwork, Charlie went to his office and knocked on the door. There was no way he’d already left. Even if he was going somewhere, he was probably just hiding out in his office. Yet no one answered the door.
She tried again – no response.
Charlie got out her phone and instinctively opened his contact, but she lost her nerve and texted Harper instead.
Charlie: Do you know where Ethan is? The system says he’s on vacation.
Harper: Did he not tell you?
Charlie: Tell me what?
The text turned to “read,” but instead of receiving a typically prompt reply, Harper hesitated. Three dots indicated she was typing, but they stopped without any message from Harper. Charlie’s stomach lurched, wondering what on earth could make Harper delay when she was famous for responding immediately.
“Charlie! Just who I was hoping to find,” Naveen interrupted Charlie’s anxious thoughts. He looked casual, but his gait was anything but. He was practically running towards her, carrying a small envelope with an unusually tight grip.
“Oh? Everything okay?” Charlie asked, trying to match his friendly demeanor. They were both faking it – and doing so poorly. The entire time, Charlie eyed her cell phone screen, frowning as Harper apparently started and abandoned a dozen text messages. What could be so bad that she didn’t want to tell her?
“Of course,” Naveen smiled warmly, but there was something strange about his expression. Unease. Concern. Panic, maybe?
Had something horrible happened to Ethan?
“I am under strict orders to give you this letter at 2 pm. Unfortunately, my afternoon is booked, so I’ll just have to defy orders and give you the letter now,” Naveen explained.
Technically, it wasn’t a lie. He did have a meeting at 2 pm – he quickly scheduled one as soon as Ethan walked into his office this morning and told him the plan. Naveen wanted to make sure he had a perfect alibi for defying his friend’s wishes. He loved Ethan, but this was undoubtedly the stupidest thing he’d ever done.
Naveen held out a small envelope for Charlie, and immediately, she recognized the impatient yet rigid handwriting on the front. It was Ethan’s handwriting, and the letter was addressed to her.
She accepted it, tracing her fingers over the imprint of her name. Charlie was desperate to open it, hoping it had some explanation for all the strangeness around her, but she was too embarrassed to tear it open when Naveen had just informed her of the intended delivery. If she wasn’t supposed to receive this letter for another two hours, was it fair to open it now?
Naveen watched expectantly, hoping she would tear that letter to shreds and stop the melodramatic catastrophe ahead. He frowned when she hesitated.
Finally, he pointedly said, “I’ll give you privacy so you can read your letter. I’ll be in my office when you have questions.”
“When I have questions?” Charlie repeated, but Naveen had already started walking away – eager to have that enveloped opened.
Charlie’s eyebrows furrowed as she stared at the small envelop once more. None of this made sense. Ethan was a creature of habit – but everything about this went against his usual behavior. He’d left work without warning. He’d written her a letter, which he’d never done before, and then cryptically given it to Naveen for delivery. Something was happening, and she didn’t like it.
Curiosity got the better of her, and within moments of being alone, she ripped the envelop to shreds, too curious to protect the paper. Her eyes flew over the words, too stunned to speak as she processed the contents.
“My darling Charlotte,
I don’t know if this letter is a relief or a betrayal. I don’t even know which I’d prefer.
I’m leaving Boston. By the time you read this letter, I will be on a flight to San Diego for an interview. If all goes according to plan, you’ll never have to see me again. I don’t trust myself to come back before starting the new job. I’m already so close to abandoning this grand gesture and selfishly demanding your forgiveness when I know you should never forgive me.
Charlie, you deserve Boston. You deserve Edenbrook. You deserve the illustrious career I know you’ll have. You deserve the dream I ruined.
I can’t stop you from leaving, but I can take away your reason for going. If you’re running away from me, there’s no need. I’m already gone.
Please stay. Be the amazing doctor I know you were meant to be. I’ll read every paper you ever publish. I’ll be proud of every discovery you make. And I’ll rest easy knowing that you needed to be free of me to achieve it all.
 Don’t let me be the reason you upend your life and career. I’m not worth it. But you, my brilliant Charlotte, are worth everything.
I love you, Rookie. Make me proud.
-ER”
Charlie read the letter over and over again – as if repetition could cure the incurable and explain the unexplainable.
Anger and despair roared with each new word, resulting in shaking hands and a tear-stained page.
This… This… This asshole.
This self-important, self-sabotaging asshole! He had to get his way. He was so insufferably stubborn – almost as infuriating a match to her own tenacity. Somehow, Ethan managed to be the worst of them both, indulging in all of Charlie’s worst faults and adding more of his own. To do something like this – Charlie raged and mourned in equal measure.
He left before she could. And then he didn’t even tell her!
Because of him, the last time she’d be able to see him was this morning in the halls.
She hadn’t appreciated it. She hadn’t catalogued all the lines on his face or savored the scent of his cologne. Now that she tried to remember, she didn’t even know what color his tie was. Had he been wearing a tie?
She deserved a better memory. And fuck, the last time she saw him couldn’t be today. She was tired and disheveled. She wasn’t even sure if she’d remembered to put in deodorant this morning, and this was her final viewing?
There was so much she still needed to do. She needed to yell and scream at him. She needed to hold him and smell him and remember all the little details. She needed more time.
No.
He didn’t get to leave like this.
Not without saying goodbye. Or giving her this ridiculous, infuriating, and heartfelt letter instead.
What a pathetic, ridiculous trade. She’d spent two years loving him and one year sharing his bed, and now she didn’t even get a proper goodbye.
It wasn’t even the first time he’d done this to her. He’d abruptly abandoned her in the name of self-sacrifice before, and she’d done the same to him. But it was different now. She knew how he liked his coffee. She knew the laundry detergent he preferred. She knew … him.
Charlie nursed her anger like a neglected seedling, hoping that fury could erase the deep sense of loss in her chest. But her wrath failed to take root. Every time she told herself she hated Ethan Ramsey, she remembered the last lines of the letter.
“I love you, Rookie.”
Ethan loved her.
Charlie loved him.
The rest of it was a petty race to see who could fuck up first.
The fights seemed so stupid now. The issues looked resolvable. She could spend the rest of her life with this man if they’d both just let the other stay.
And suddenly, it was so simple that Charlie felt ridiculous for not seeing it before. Charlie loved Ethan more than she loved her reasons keeping them apart, and she deserved the right to say that to his face.
She had to stop him. He hadn’t left yet – she had time.
The realization spurred Charlie to movement, and before she knew it, she was sprinting through the halls to Naveen’s office. She needed to find out which airport he’d gone to. She could track down the flight from there, and if she left quickly, she might make it in time. But she’d need to tell someone before she left. She couldn’t just abandon her patients without approval.
Everyone moved out of her way – some with confused expressions, others with a knowing sense of relief. Later, she would wonder how much her coworkers knew about Ethan’s secret plan to leave, but hopefully, she’d be safely tucked in Ethan’s arms by the time those thoughts reached her.
Naveen’s assistant wordlessly motioned Charlie into his office, despite the meetings Naveen said would consume his entire afternoon.
Breathlessly, Charlie heaved at the door and sputtered out a series of questions, “Where is he? When’s his flight? I need to go, I’m so sorry, but someone needs to cover my patients because-“
Naveen cut her off. Luckily, he’d prepared for all of those requests. Otherwise, he would have had to rely on her labored speech, and that would have been too time-consuming to decipher. How fast had she been running?
“Dr. Carrick has taken over your patients for the next hour, and Dr. Trinh offered to take the hour after that, if you need it. The list goes on, as you can imagine,” Naveen calmly shuffled through his papers, “Ethan is flying out of Logan Airport on a Delta flight scheduled for 1:55. The monitors will tell you his gate number. If you leave now, you’ll make it there before he gets through security, but just in case, I bought you a ticket.”
Naveen held out a piece of paper – an airline ticket to Nevada leaving at midnight. It was the cheapest same-day flight he could find.
“But how…?” Charlie trailed off, accepting the paper. It was too grand of a gesture, but she also couldn’t fathom giving it back.
“People who aren’t in love don’t have to run thousands of miles away to stay away from each other,” Naveen smiled softly, “I always knew you two would find your way back to each other. I just wished you hadn’t been so dramatic in getting there.”
“Naveen,” Charlie choked, rubbing her thumb along the ticket barcode. Charlie knew she’d never step foot in Nevada, but it was still the greatest gift she’d ever received, “Thank you so much. I can’t begin to tell you how much this means –“Charlie wiped at her eyes, momentarily forgetting the rush as she tried not to cry.
“Sweet Charlotte, you are one of my dearest friends. But you need to leave right now and stop Ethan from making a huge mistake.”
“Right, oh my God,” Charlie felt the anxiety creep back into her bones, making her practically bounce in place with the effort to stay still, “Thank you! I need to get a cab, fuck,” Charlie covered her mouth, offering an apology for her language as she rushed out of the office.
 Naveen smiled softly with relief.
One day, he would tell them that watching them fall in love was one of the most stressful experiences of his life, but today, he was satisfied that they were still in love.
Charlie bolted though Edenbrook with less care than should have been reserved for such a delicate place of healing. She weaved and ran through the halls, apologizing when necessary and promising to make up for the inconvenience. But she didn’t stop running.
Not even when she got out her phone to secure the fastest ride to the airport she could find, even if the cost made her wince.
Ethan was wrong. He was worth it. He was worth everything. Even an outrageous cab fare.
She imagined his face when she found him at the airport. What would she say? How would she convince him to stay? Would he even listen to her? For the first time, Charlie was thankful for the luxury of a long cab ride to compose her thoughts.
But then she didn’t need to imagine his face.
Because, when she reached the front door of Edenbrook, there he was.
He was standing outside, still putting his suitcase in the backseat of the cab. She didn’t need to race to the airport – he was still here.
Charlie couldn’t believe it, staring at him with a mix of awe and disbelief.
“You’re here,” Charlie breathed, amazed he heard her over the bustling city behind them. But of course, he did. It was Charlie. He always noticed her.
But she wasn’t supposed to be here.
“I am,” Ethan froze.
I almost didn’t go, he thought. His car was originally scheduled for 11:30 sharp. He’d technically been off the clock for an hour now, but he’d pushed back his car so many times that a bad stretch of traffic could ruin his entire itinerary. He’d lingered in his office for so long, finding every reason to procrastinate his exit. It was as if he’d hoped she’d sensed the danger and come running. When she didn’t magically come to stop him, he’d forced himself out of the hospital – only to wander the block for a while before finally getting in his cab.
He'd wanted to see her one last time. He wasn’t sure if he could leave without a proper send-off. But he also knew that seeing her would ruin his whole plan. There would never be enough “lasts” with Charlie. He would always want one more look, one more conversation, one more kiss. He’d spend his whole life chasing the perfect memory with her, and by then, it would be too late. He had to go before his mistakes were too engrained in her life to be undone.
But there she was – his beautiful Charlotte. He felt his resolve break before he could even admit it to himself. He’d always find a reason to stay for her.
And Charlie’s resolve broke a little bit too – just for different reasons. Her simple realization was muddied with hard truths and stinging betrayals – the most daunting of all was how much she loved him. She was so angry and hurt, but she was still so foolishly in love. She was his to hold and his to break, and they were both very good at breaking things.
It took a very large dose of courage to finally start talking.
And she began terribly.
“You are stubborn. And you think you’re always right. You’re so fucking afraid of ruining things that you try to ruin it. You should have let me make my own decisions, and you were wrong to try to fix everything because you disagreed with me,” Charlie puffed out. Her cheeks flushed with the effort of running after him and the frustration flowing through her words.
“Charlotte I’m so-“
“I’m not done,” Charlie cut him off. “You were an asshole to leave without saying goodbye – when you went to the Amazon and now.”
“How did you know I-?” Ethan began, but she silenced him with a look.
It wasn’t two yet. She wasn’t supposed to have the letter.
“But I did the same thing to you. We’re both…” Charlie paused, trying to find the perfect way to describe their cosmically misaligned faults. But all she could come up with was “Assholes. But I love you, and I’m not letting you get on that plane.”
Ethan’s hands itched to take hers – to abandon his grand gesture and run up to her. To hold her. To feel the warmth of her skin and feel the thump of her heartbeat. To promise to spend the rest of his life making up for his mistakes.
But at his core, Ethan didn’t believe he deserved her. He was too damaged. Too insecure and irrational. To self-righteous and overbearing. He’d done too much wrong to ever deserve something so right.
“I’ll ruin your life,” Ethan managed, despite the lump in his throat and the crippling sorrow that he’d never be enough for the woman he loved. He said it like a warning, like he was begging her to believe him. Even in protesting, he knew he couldn’t resist running back to her.
“No, you won’t,” Charlie said firmly. She didn’t know where she found such resolve when, in all likelihood, he would ruin her life. She’d never be the same after him. One misstep and she’d be destroyed. But she gave him the trust she wanted them both to earn.
Ethan shook his head, but he was already walking toward her. She was like a magnet, pulling him closer and closer to danger. He was close enough to smell her shampoo – coconut and vanilla – and it almost broke him. Tears welling in his eyes, Ethan’s fingertips grazed her cheek. When she leaned into his hand, he instinctively cupped her face, pushing a stray curl out of her eyes.
When he looked at her, it was with desperation.
Desperation that she believed him – that she understood the profound risk associated with loving him.
And desperation that she wouldn’t care. That he could hold her until they were nothing but bone and old memories.
“I couldn’t even tell anyone you were mine. Just like you said – I was so afraid of fucking everything up that I actually fucked it up,” Ethan was pleading with her to appreciate how horrible he’d been, “You deserve better.”
He didn’t even realize that, since approaching her, he’d bent his knees to even out their height difference. He didn’t feel the way he bent to her, still desperately concerned with being close to her. Something about that made her smile.
“Would you do that now?” she asked, hoping she already knew the answer.
He should have lied.
That would be the right thing to do.
But the idea of hiding her now was so outrageous that Ethan laughed. A weak, tear-stained, breathless laugh – but a laugh all the same.
“No,” he shook his head, “I’d scream it from the atrium. I’d be obnoxious about it. Probably even marry you and force you to take my last name like some asshole.”
Dr. Charlotte Ramsey.
It wasn’t terrible to either of their ears.
“I wouldn’t change my name,” Charlie countered, the smile still lingering on her lips.
“Good,” Ethan was laughing again. He traced the curve of her cheek, swallowing back a sob as he asked himself what the fuck he was doing.
He was supposed to be running away right now. Why was he holding her?
“I know we keep messing it up,” Charlie chewed on her lower lip, and it took every ounce of Ethan’s resolve not to free it, “But I love you. I don’t want to live without you, and I genuinely believe we can make it work. We just… need to be less dramatic, maybe. Talk it out instead of threatening to move to different states.”
That was funny, Ethan thought to himself, but he was too panic-stricken to laugh.
“What if I hurt you?” Ethan asked with such raw pain and fear that it took Charlie aback.
“You will,” she said quickly – too quickly to phrase it as delicately as the conversation deserved.
Of course, he would. Reminded of his ultimate mission, Ethan started to pull away – intent on getting the hell out of Massachusetts before he could harm her. Charlie stopped him, clamping her hands on his wrist desperately.
“I’m going to hurt you, too. That’s just what happens, Ethan. But I still love you, and if being in love with you means that we’re going to hurt each other sometimes, I still want you,” Charlie confessed, “I trust you, Ethan. Even if you don’t trust yourself.”
By now, they’d amassed a curious crowd of onlookers, but Ethan would have rather died than let her go and pretend like he didn’t love her for the sake of some strangers. Sensing them, too, Charlie started to untangle herself from their complicated embrace, but Ethan stopped her.
I don’t care if they see, he quietly implored. Her eyes widened, and to her own surprise, she did trust him.
“Stay with me in Boston,” Charlie begged.
“What if I ruin your career?”
“I don’t care.”
“What if I hurt you and we don’t work it out – and all of it could have been avoided if I’d just left today?”
“I’d still want you to stay.”
She’d want me to stay, Ethan mulled over that phrase until it was part of his soul.
This brilliant, wonderful, kind, and thoughtful woman. She’s everything he ever wanted but never thought he’d deserve. And she trusted him. She wanted him.
Maybe he just had to trust her, too.
His plans crumbled in his hands – self-sacrifice be damned. All he ever wanted was Charlie, and oh my God, he was actually going to let himself have it.
“I’m going to stay,” Ethan said, eyes dazed. Like he hadn’t really processed what that meant.
But Charlie had. She was grinning ear-to-ear, and in his stunned state, Ethan thought she looked the most beautiful she’d ever looked.
I’m staying, he thought, I’m going to live the rest of my life loving Charlotte Greene.
How the hell did he get so lucky?
Eyes still brimming with tears, Ethan’s face split into a smile, and he scooped her in his arms, forgetting about their height difference as he lifted her off the ground to hold her close. His darling, wonderful Charlotte.
“I love you so much I can’t sleep without you,” the words flowed out of his mouth so quickly that Charlie could hardly process them. Every compliment and moment of affection he’d held back poured from his lips, intermixed with kisses across her skin. “I love you,” he kissed her nose. “I love you, Rookie.” He kissed her cheek.
He would have carried on like that forever – finding some new way to say he loved her as he kissed every inch of her face.
But Charlie interrupted him, looping her arms around his neck and kissing his lips the way she’d wanted to for months. It was raw and unrefined, blending pure adoration with desperation and unbridled need. It was spliced with flowing tears and face-splitting smiles, and it was the best kiss she’d ever had.
“I love you, Ethan Ramsey,” Charlie breathed against him, so mind-numbingly happy that she momentarily forgot every sadness she’d ever felt.
“I love you, Charlotte Greene,” Ethan replied, matching her smile. Passively, he wondered how long he’d have to wait until he could tack on a ‘Ramsey’ to that last name. Given how he felt right now, he’d last an hour before he was on his knees begging her.
Then again, doing that would require releasing her from his arms – and he had no interest in doing that.
HOOONNNKKKKK.
Charlie jumped, breaking apart just enough that Ethan could mourn the absence of her warmth, and he carefully put her down. They both looked to find the cab driver impatiently waiting for them. Admittedly, he’d been interested in their grand reunion, but he didn’t have all day to wait on a pair of lovebirds kissing on a sidewalk.
“Are we going to the airport or not?” he demanded.
“We are not,” Ethan grinned, reaching into his back pocket for his wallet. He pulled out two hundred dollar bills and offered them in conciliation for the wasted time. He looked back to Charlie, “We could still do a local fare. I have the rest of the day off.”
He hoped she’d suggest they just went home. He was eager to spend the entire day reclaiming every inch of that apartment with affection for Charlie, rather than the ghosts of her devastating absence. It was only a bonus if that day was mostly spent in bed.
But before she could say yes, her pager buzzed, informing her of an urgent patient update. Wasn’t Tobias supposed to take her calls?
“Shit, I need to check on this,” she frowned down at the device, cursing it and whoever sent the message, “But don’t go! I’ll find you right after. Just wait here.”
Charlie couldn’t fathom the idea of letting him go off in that car alone. She wasn’t convinced he wouldn’t still go to that stupid airport, so she lingered nervously.
“I promise I’m staying – in Boston and here while you check on the patient.” There was nothing that would take Ethan away now.
Charlie looked back at her pager, wondering how bad it would be if she just ignored it. But when confronted with all the horrific possibilities, beginning with a harmed patient and ending with the loss of her medical license, she immediately tucked the pager back in her pocket and rushed towards Ethan, giving him a quick kiss, “I’ll see you soon.”
“I know,” he kissed the tip of her nose.
“I love you.”
“I love you, too. Now go.”
Ethan watched Charlie rush back into the hospital, despite looking over her shoulder at least a dozen times. When she was out of sight, Ethan gave the cab driver another fifty-dollar bill just to celebrate his good mood, and he took his suitcase out of the back, allowing the man to get about his day.
When Ethan started walking into the hospital, he got a better look at their witnesses, and he recognized a few faces. They looked nervous, like witnessing Charlie and Ethan was too personal to be the hospital gossip they’d hoped for.
Ethan waved politely, unbothered by their presence.
“We won’t tell, Dr. Ramsey,” one of them spoke up – a nurse on the third floor who Ethan recognized as being particularly kind to the residents when she helped clean up their mistakes. It was fitting that she would try to clean this up, too. Even if she didn’t know the full extent of Bloom’s threat, she knew that professing his love for a resident would be a huge scandal for Dr. Ramsey.
“No need,” Ethan shook his head, “But thank you.”
The nurse eyed him, silently offering him another chance to save himself, but Ethan didn’t take it.
Ethan picked Charlie. Despite all the danger of heartbreak and personal ruin, he’d promised to stay. And he knew that he couldn’t do that if he maintained the secrecy that drove them apart in the first place. Something had to change, and that meant being open about who he loved and how much he loved her.
So, Ethan knew exactly what he needed to do – beginning with meeting with Leland Bloom.
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choicesholidays · 4 months
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Choices Fandom Holiday Events
December Fandom Events!
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Hey everybody!! It's that time of year again! This is what @choicesholidays was created for but it's not the only event in December. I wanted to make you aware of the cornucopia of holiday goodness the fandom has to offer over the next month and a half.
There are several events going on and the best part is that you can cross-tag them all with each other if your story or artwork fits in more than one of them!
The December challenge from @choicesmonthlychallenge isn't up yet, but I'm sure it will be amazing so don't forget to check back for that!
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Note
Hello, I like the stories you create, especially the one about Bloodbound. Can you create a story about Adrian Raines, MC, and Zuri again? Thank you!
Hi darling! Thank you so much for your kind words! I'm truly happy you enjoy them! And... Omg, it's like you read my mind! I just finished this piece of them and let me tell you, be ready for an overdose of cuteness! lol (Or at least that it's how it felt while writing it!) I just love them together! Here hoping you enjoy it!
First birthday
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Pairing: Adrian Raines x MC x OC Zuri (their daughter)
Warning: Just a tiny bit of angst but fluff fluff fluff!
Words: 1.133
As always, tagging in the reblog!
Amy turned around on the bed, surprised to see the absence of Adrian's arm around her and his side of the bed empty. She hadn't heard the baby monitor go off so she knew Zuri hadn't disturbed his sleep. She stood up and walked towards the baby's room first. When she pushed open the ajar door, a little smile blossomed on her face, watching Adrian attentively looking at their little girl. She tip-toed up to him and hugged his waist from behind, kissing his nape.
"Is she okay? I didn't hear her cry." Amy whispered as he turned, holding her back and kissing her forehead.
"She's fine, love. I woke up and took the opportunity to check on her." 
"And you? Do you feel alright?" 
"Everything is just perfect." She studied him for a bit before gently cupping his cheek, making him look at her. Zuri's first birthday would be in a couple of days and Amy was pretty sure what was going on in his mind.
"We are okay. Nothing bad is going to happen to her. Or me." Adrian paused for a moment with a serious expression, before sighing, his shoulders slumped a little and his brows knitting together. 
"It scares me to think that history repeats itself. To lose everything I love again."
"It won't." She knew that he had lost his son just a few days after his first birthday.
 "I will mentally torture anyone that even tries to touch her." His hands squeezed her involuntarily. "They can ask Gaius how that feels." He quietly chuckled, a bit of tension smoking away from him. "I promised you, when I woke up, that you will never lose me again. Let me add something to that promise." Their eyes fixed to each other, intensely and profoundly. "You are not going to lose her either, Adrian."
"It just… You two are everything to me." His voice was low but filled with emotion, directing his gaze back at Zuri, still asleep in her crib. "My whole world." 
"Do you trust me?" He turned to her, surprised at the question.
"You know I trust you more than anyone or anything, Amy." 
"Then trust me when I say that nothing bad is going to happen." 
"I'll try, my love." She brushed his cheek with her lips before detangling from his hold. "But it's not easy…"
"Of course it's not. But you have to try." Slowly and tenderly, she lifted Zuri from the crib, careful to not wake her, leaning her on her shoulder. Her little arms rested on her chest, her mouth slightly open while Amy gently patted her back. "You deserved to enjoy every second with her, to not be worried or scared." He kissed Zuri's small head.
"Believe me, I am." Careful to not disturb the baby, he sweetly took Amy's lips with his. "I love you, my eternity."
"Almost eleven years together and you still sound as cheesy as the first time." She said with a little smirk as he silently chuckled and leaned his head against hers. "I love you too, handsome."
"As if you don't like it." Adrian winked at her.
"Of course I do. I mean, there's a reason I married you." Zuri moved against her causing Amy to tighten her hold a little more. "Let's go back to bed. This lady can sleep with us for a few days." She moved to the door, quietly walking to their bedroom, Adrian turned off the dim light and followed her. Carefully, she lowered Zuri's tiny frame onto the bed, laying her down in the space between them. Amy smiled at her as she caressed her cheek with the back of her finger, getting comfortable beside her. "Having her in our lives still amazes me sometimes.”
"I know the feeling. She's positively extraordinary." He gently and protectively rested his hand on her belly, his thumb stroking her tummy below the soft light pink onesie with the print of a joystick and the quote 'Player 3 has joined the game' that Lily had given her. Amy moved her finger, leading it inside the tiny loose fist, holding her hand, and kissed the side of her head until she fell asleep once more, her face almost touching Zuri's. 
Adrian stood awake a long time, simply observing them, hearing their steady heartbeats and the soothing rhythm of their breathing. He knew Amy was right, after all it had been years since something dangerous had happened to them but no matter how hard he tried, the uneasiness was still there. Zuri gave a little kick with her right leg and he smiled at her. When they had decided to start the adoption process, he knew he would love them no matter what but he hadn't expected it would be this much. At that time, he had noticed how worried Amy had been for him, trying not to make him feel they were replacing his first family. And he loved her for that, even more than he already did.
Zuri's cry called his attention. He picked her up, activating the bottle warmer with the remote, going to the kitchen so Amy could keep sleeping. He checked her diaper just in case but it was completely clean. 
"Sh sh, beautiful. It's almost done." He rocked her a bit, waiting the last two minutes until the bottle was ready, kissing her forehead. He took the bottle, offering it to her, smiling when she vigorously drank it, her bright eyes glued at him. "You and your mom are equally enthusiastic about food." Her gulps continued like that for a little while, becoming gradual until it finally stopped. Adrian left the almost empty bottle in the sink and gently leaned her over his shoulder, clapping her back softly, waiting for her burp. The little belch echoed in the kitchen, making him smile, and wiped her mouth with the towel he was holding. He gently lay her over his arm, calmly passing around, until her eyelids flushered, beginning to close again. "Time for bed, little angel." He returned to the bedroom, grinning at Amy profoundly asleep. By the time he sat her down on the mattress, her cute snores had begun again. He took the hem of the cover and pulled it up, making sure that neither of them were cold. As he looked at them he thought of all the years of darkness and pain, all the times that he had felt empty or lost. Of course he would never forget those years but… If it meant being this incredibly happy again, he would definitely go through all that again. Because they are definitely worth it. As his own eyelids started to close, a smile curved his lips up, noticing how Amy's finger, somehow, was in Zuri's grasp again.
💗
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ladylamrian · 14 days
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✨️ Kit meets Rook ✨️
Female Main Character: Alexis Clarissa Fontaine (Nightbound) & Astrid (Blades of Light and Shadow)
Characters: Nik Ryder, Mal Volari, Tyril Starfury, Imtura, Nia Ellarious, Vera Reimonenq, Katherine, Cal Lowell, Threep, ...
Pairings: F!MC×NikRyder & F!MC×MalVolari
Summary: Astrid accidently opens the wrong portal.
Word Count: 3.2K words
Rating: Teen (Magic, Adventure, Friendship, Fluff)
Warnings: none, just a small fighting scene
-> My complete Masterlist here <-
Taglist: @infactnoimmasitinthemiddle ; @peonierose ; @secretaryunpaid ; @jdstar88 ; @blackcatkita ; @lilyoffandoms ; @liviusofpella ; @mxdanni ; @mariemarieohcontrary ; @tessa-liam ; @choicesficwriterscreations ; @hopelessromantic1352 ; @rosepetals1 ; @stars-are-within-me ; @dutifullynuttywitch ; @thosehallowedhalls ; @artbyalz ; @choicesficwriterscreations
Some parts grammar checked by @lilyoffandoms
Comments via Reblog wholeheartly welcome
Author's note: The tiny story takes place after Nightbound and Blades of Light & Shadow Book 1. Special thanks to @chanceisagoodboy for the inspiration and idea ✨️
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New Orleans always looked beautiful at night. Shops, restaurants, bars and dance pools were gleaming with bright colors and lights. But in the middle of an abandoned alley, near the street, where no one else was there, something mysterious happened. Air was filled with magic. The weather changed within seconds. The clear nightsky turned into a thundery scene as rain was falling down the earth and thunderbolts flashed above. But there was something else, something strange and unusual. A mysterious vortex appeared which tossed six strange figures outside. And then... it closed. The six beeings remained.
"Ouch, what an uncomfortable landing!!", a lady in gown commented as she was lying with her companions on the ground. She focused her lavender-colored eyes on her surroundings and wondered where they got.
"Well done, kit. Now care to explain where you transported us, because this doesn't look like Whitetower.", a young man with brown, shoulder-lenght locks and light beard spoke. He discovered his two daggers, Stabby & Stabby Junior lying infront of him as he crashed on the ground, so he quickly picked his loyal weapons up and stashed them back inside.
"A powerful and wise nesper like me doesn't deserve to be lying on the dirty floor and get treated like this.", Threep, the bat-winged cat hissed. As the cat saw how everyone finally stood up from the ground, he fluttered it's wings and landed on Astrid's shoulder. His cat-eyes fixed on her, waiting for an answer.
"I'm so sorry for the hard landing, Threep. I didn't know it would be like this."
"Hmmph."
"Threep, will you please forgive your Astrid?"
"I suppose a snack wouldn't hurt to make it up for you, dear realmwalker.", he meowed and played around with her blonde braids like a playful kitten which made her giggle.
"Sure, Threep. But first we have to figure out where we landed. This world looks so weird.", Astrid's blue eyes scanned the surroundings in the dark with the help of her night-vision abbility.
All around them were humans. No elf and no orc. They were all dressed in a diffrent style which neither Astrid or her friends understood. Not only this, strange machineries drove by in which humans were sitting, but there were no horses which pulled them. They moved on their own. Colorful lights everywhere on the street. Was it magic?
"What strange world is that? Where did you brought us, Astrid?", Tyril asked.
"I don't know, but looks all so new and interesting which got me curious... Let's explore and begin a new adventure!!", she announced with confidence.
"Astrid, I don't know. It could be dangerous. We don't know anything."
"Come on, priestess. Be a little more active and open to the world. We pirates explore new places and find treasures.", Imtura agreed with Astrid.
"Imtura's right! Who knows what shiny treasures and gold we'll find."
"Can't you just NOT think about gold for once, treasure hunter. I have to agree with Nia. It could be dangerous. We don't know anything."
"Three against two, elf boy."
"Excuse meow, I would like to be included with my opinion top. I'm with Nia and Tyril, because I want to go home. My warm food is waiting for me.", the nesper licked it's palm with attitude.
"So it's three against three. We have a tie. Means we'll explore a little and then we'll go back home. Do you all agree with me?"
"Yes Astrid, that's fair! I just hope you know how to open the right portal which leads us back home.", Nia Ellarious, the priestess agreed, along everyone else too.
"Honestly, I'm still learning my powers. I seriously didn't thought this would happen, but I promise that I'll do better. We'll find a way to get back home!!", Astrid, the realwalker ensured her friends.
The group of friends walked through the bustling streets of the unknown place and everytime surprised as they made a new discovery. There were small, shining figures in green and red which signaled the humans when to cross the streets and when to stop. These secured the safety of both, the walking humans and the ones who were sitting in these strange, horse-less machinaries. Was this magic?
"Hey, why are some humans looking at us like this and then laughing? Are they making fun of us? Maybe because we're dressed differently or...?", Nia asked with concern.
"Yeah, it's like they never saw an orc!"
"Or a noble elf like me. I feel that we're beeing watched and I do not like this, my dear friends. I told you before too, that it could be dangerous here.", Tyril agreed with Imtura.
Not far from them, a group of youngsters were enjoying themselves. One even held a small, metallic device which flashed like lightening. Out of curiousity, Mal moved closer to the group to take a closer while remaining hidden in the shadows. It turned out that the group of young people now could see a picture of them in that pose when that mysterous device flashed at them. It's like watching a portrait of them which just got painted by the flashing light.
"How can they still be here standing in front of me and also beeing captured in that small device at the same time?", Mal thought and immediately left, because he didn't wanted to accidently get captured in an item.
He quickly joined his friends in a more quiet place, but shocked as he saw them facing a very familar figure.
"Well, well, well, who do we have here? How interesting! Humans, along with an elf and an orc. These two might fit well into my collection", the mysterious woman in black smirked. Behind her were standing tough, muscular men who looked dangerous.
"Uhh, who are you? What collection?"
"Oh, dear. You don't know me? Everyone knows who I am. Would your elf friend and orc friend be interested to join my secret fighting ring under Club Persephone? Elf versus Orc. That would create a huge audience and a lot of money.", she answered Astrid's questions while pressing her face with her gloved hand as she moved closer towards her.
"Hey!!! Let Astrid go!!!", Mal shouted at the woman. He grabbed Astrid's arm and pulled her protectively closer to him till their bodies pressed eachother's.
"Mal, I'm fine. Don't worry, I can handle.", she showed strenght, but also gratitude towards her caring lover. They glaced at eachother with full affection and love until their attention turned towards their friends and the mysterious woman.
"Oh, so you're a couple? You two remind me of that annoying hunter and his fairy girlfriend. You disgust me."
"Leave us alone, thief master.", Mal warned her which made her even more angry while the friends got surprised.
"Mal, you know that woman?", Imtura asked.
"Thief master??? You dared to call me, a thief?!! I am the Lady Smoke!!! The most powerful woman and most dangerous murder mob boss of New Orleans??!", she unleashed her anger, finally removed her glove, revealing her palm which showed black, poisonous vains. The whole crew shocked at the discovery. While the lady in black moved her hand towards Astrid and Mal, her muscular men grabbed the rest of them.
"Let go!!! Don't hurt my friends.", Nia shouted.
"I'll show you the strenght of an orc, you rats.", the orc hissed.
"Threep, is that woman corrupted or why does she has these black vains?", Tyril asked while fighting one of the goons.
"No, it's something else.", he meowed as he tried to free Nia, the priestess. The nesper began attacking the enemies with his sharp claws.
The whole situation turned into a fighting scene. Mal tried to protect Astrid, she tried to protect him, as they switched back and fourth. Trying to protect eachother.
"Astrid, I'll handle.", he grabbed his two daggers and got into fighting position.
"Mal, I can do it. Let me use my powers."
"But..."
"Ssshhhh, I'll be safe. Don't worry, love."
"But I'll..."
BANG
Before Mal could say more, a bright light appeared out of nowhere which illuminated their whole surrounding. It took everyone a little time to adjust. They shielded their eyes from the light which was so bright. When the light faded, they slowly opened their eyes. There was a mysterious young man in a leather coat facing them, holding a crossbow in his hands. It was the holy light arrow he just shot, which caused the bright light. The arrow landed on the ground near Lady Smoke and her goons as a warning and not to injure them.
"Let them go, Smoke!", he warned her.
"And if I don't?"
"Don't make a fuzz of this, Tonya. Just let them go and everyone will be happy."
"Mind your own business, nighthunter."
"Heyyy!!! Nobody speaks to my partner like this!!", a silvery-black haired woman appeared next to the mysterious man.
Nik smirked as she called him her partner and wrapped his free arm around her waist.
"My rook."
"Oh, so the couple is here together now. Solo suited you better, Nik Ryder", Tonya mocked.
"Shut up, Smoke!! And let these innocent people go."
While Tonya was focused at Nik and his girlfriend, Astrid used her skills to free her friends. Time for the Seduction Skill!! She swayed her hips and leaned closer towards a man who held one of her friends captured. Mal surprised at her sudden move.
"Hello, strong man.", she winked at one of them.
"Me?"
"Yes, you. You're very strong and look at your muscles.", she traced a finger on the stranger's arm who suddenly felt attracted towards her. The rest of them wanted that too now.
Mal definitly didn't liked it even though, she used her seduction skills several times and it helped. But this time was diffrent. They were nasty men who could hurt her who were now hungrily staring at her. Mal had to do something.
"Hey Astrid, you haven't seen my muscles yet. Let me use them to smash those bastards.", Mal got jealous. Astrid's eyes were still on the men.
"Oh yes, Mal is right. You guys have muscles, but use it for what??!! To serve an unthankful woman. I definitly would value your hard work and loyalty. All of you.", the braided blonde played with her lashes which made the men loosen their grips.
And with that, Tyril, Imtura, Threep and Nia managed to free themselves and began fighting. Even Astrid now used her combat skill and threw a few punches at the men, while Tyril, Imtura and Mal used their weapons. Threep supported the priestess to defend everyone.
"How dare you treat a legendary and wise nesper like that??", he hissed and used it's cat claws to hurt the enemies.
"Watch out!!!", the silvery haired girl shouted and blasted a flame of  light towards a goon who was about to hit Astrid from behind. The bad guy couldn't harm her now, fell backwards and then fainted.
"Thanks!!", Astrid shouted towards her and continued her battle.
Tonya Reimonenq noticed that her men couldn't win, especially against a strong orc like Imtura. So she demanded her men to retreat, getting back to her Club.
"I'll be back. You haven't heard the last from me, Ryder.", she swore revenge, quickly stepped inside her limousine and commanded her driver to escape.
"Phewww, she and her men are gone.", Nia got relieved when Lady Smoke and her goons were finally gone.
"I knew it!! An unknown world could be dangerous."
"I know, Tyril. You were right, but I'm glad we got rid of them. And these two helped us.", Astrid turned her attention towards the couple in front of them. The two stepped closer towards the group.
"Damn, didn't know you guys would handle it on your own. I'm impressed. At least some people don't need to be protected which makes my work easier. And you did a great job too, rook.", Nik praised everyone.
"Awwww, thanks.", she got delighted, stood on her toes and planted a quick kiss on his cheek. Then she stepped closer towards the group to introduce herself and Nik. They shook eachothers hands.
"Nice to meet you, Alex. I'm Astrid. These are my friends, Imtura, Nia, Tyril, Mal and Threep."
"Awwww, Threep is soooo cute!!!! Eeeeeeekkk...", she admired the little, winged cat and wanted to cuddle it.
"Pardon me, but I need my personal space. No cuddles when I'm hungry, milady."
"You can talk??!!"
"Of course. I'm a very wise nesper who has to confess my hunger and speaks wise words."
"Awwww, poor kitty. You must be sooo hungry. Let's get you some food, huh? Garrus's bar isn't far away, he'll serve you food and I'll feed you as much as you want.", Alex picked Threep up from the ground and held it like a baby in her arms, gazing sweetfully at him.
This time the nesper didn't complained because he was ready to get treated like he always wanted to.
"What's a bar?", one of the friends asked.
"Uhhh, it's where you drink? You guys never went to a bar? My friend, Garrus serves non-alcoholic drinks too if you want.", Nik informed.
"Ooooh, so it's a tavern. Then let's go!! I could use some refreshment.", Mal immediately agreed.
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"Threep, meet Tinkerbell. Tinkerbell, meet Threep.", Alex tried to introduce Threep and her pet with eachother.
"Is that a kricken? But what is it doing here?", Nia asked and petted the pet.
"A kricken? It's a perrikin."
"Oh, I see. In our realm it's called a kricken."
"Oh, so you're from another realm?", Alex asked with curiousity.
Nik, Alex and Astrid's crew were now sitting in Garrus's bar, called The Graveyard Shift along with some more friends. Each of them were getting along with another very well and were having a great time.
"So you're a nighthunter who hunts evil creatures and beeings at night?", Mal was talking with Nik.
"Not only do I hunt. I make sure that both sides of the world, the World of Day and World of Night are save and secure against the evil. So yes, I'm a professional nighthunter. And you are...?"
"A thief. A professional thief.", Mal grinned, raising his arm to show Nik what he was holding.
"Hey, is that... My wallet?!! How the hell did you...??"
"Don't forget to look after yourself too while protecting the world, nighthunter.", Mal mischevously smiled and returned Nik's belonging back to him.
"Hmm... I like you already, thief. You're not bad actually. I'm impressed by your skills... And I like your shiny daggers."
"Thanks, Nik. My daggers are my tiny babies. But you're very skilled too."
Not far away, Katherine and Imtura were laughing together.
"Woah, really?!!! Could you teach me how to throw axes? It could come in handy for me while hunting."
"Now that's what I call a strong woman!! You may not be an orc or strong like me, but you have the spirit. I'll definitly teach you that, Katherine."
"Thanks, new bestie.", Katherine high-fived with Imtura.
Nia Ellarious and Vera Reimonenq enjoyed eachother's presence with having conversations while drinking warm lemon tea together. Both admiring eachother's outfits and figured that they had a few things in common.
"So that dangerous woman we met before was your mother?"
"Yes, but I'm not like her. Don't worry."
"Oh, I'm not afraid of you. I can sense that you're a sweet and pure person. Besides, I also had the similar experience. I looked up to the Light court, but they were not like I expected them to be. I may belong to them as a priestess, but I can still be diffrent and choose the path I want to. The path of harmony.", she explained Vera and both sweetly smiled at eachother with affection.
"Wait, you're her child?? That means she can't be the person I thought she was. She looks exactly like the thiefmaster.", Mal passed by as he overheard Nia and Vera after finishing his conversation with Nik.
"The thiefmaster?", Nia asked him.
"Oh, never mind. Forget it, priestess.", Mal tried to avoid the topic and decided to look for Astrid.
"Is that a fae??", Tyril got shocked as he saw Garrus passing by with a tray of drinks. The fae was too busy with work and serving customers to notice Tyril, the elf. Then Cal answered him.
"Yes, that's Garrus. He's a fae. And the silvery-haired girl you met earlier, she's a half fae. Are you a fae too?"
"A half-fae, how rare and astonishing!! And no, I'm no fae. I may have pointy ears too, but they are longer. I'm an elf. Tyril, House of Starfury."
"Oh, a noble?"
"It's complicated. My sister takes care of House Starfury now. I don't feel like I belong with the rest of the noble elves."
"Hey, I know what you mean. I also feel like I don't belong to my pack anymore. I'm a werewolf, but I'm not like them. An outsider. I'm diffrent, but I feel proud of it. By the way, my name is Cal. Cal Lowell.", he extended his hand forward and Tyril accepted to shake it.
"A pleasure to meet you, Cal."
Later, Mal finally found Astrid in the corner of the room who was talking with the silvery-black haired woman from before.
"Hey, kit."
"Hey, rook."
Nik and Mal greeted their own girlfriends at the same time when they appeared. Both got surprised. They stared at eachother open-mouthed for a while before turning their attention back to their partners. Alex and Astrid began to giggle.
"So Nik calls you rook, Alex?"
"Yup, and you're Mal's kit. Am I right, Astrid? Guess our boys have a few things in common just like the two of us.", she continued laughing with Astrid at the boys.
"Oh Alex, as much as I enjoyed tonight with you and your friends, but it's getting late. We must return, but I will never forget tonight. You're my new friend in this weird, but modern world."
"I will miss you too, Astrid. I hope you will visit us again. Threep is sooo adorable. And next time when you come, you should definitly teach me your seduction skill."
"Oh nooo!!! For god's sake, please don't!!! There are enough people hitting on her already, I don't want her to get started too or get in trouble.", Nik begged the girls who giggled again.
"Awww, Nik. You're my everything. But I could use the seduction skill to convince you whenever we both disagree with eachother."
"Oh, so that's your evil plan? How cruel of you, my rook?", he raised his eyebrow, then chuckled.
Then Astrid spoke, promising to teach Alex the seduction skill if she would teach her some magic. Afterall the flame of light which the nighthunter's girlfriend used against Lady Smoke's goons was impressive and could be useful. Maybe Alex could also convince her friendly stepmother, Lady Thalissa to teach both of them. For example how to open the correct portal.
And with that, it was time for Imtura, Nia, Tyril, Mal, Threep and Astrid to go back to their realm. Back home. This time Astrid opened the right portal. And if not, then they would have landed on their next adventure.
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September 2023 WOTM: lilyoffandoms
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Each month CFWC highlights one of our talented fanfic writers, and this month’s writer of the month is @lilyoffandoms. We hope you will enjoy learning more about them and their work below! The writer is selected at random. More info can be found on the navigation page.
This month's Writer of the Month was selected a little differently than normal. We announced that we would be selecting the WOTM from the participants in last month's Writer Appreciation Event. But the eleven writers involved all agreed the honor belonged to Lily. Lily has been a staple in the Choices community for so long, and they continuously go out of their way to support creators and spread positivity while continuing to inspire and create themselves. We couldn't think of anyone better suited for the honor, so please join us in congratulating Lily... September's Writer of the Month!
Quick Links:
Tumblr Blog Name: lilyoffandoms Blog Masterlist
How do you want to be known on Tumblr? Lily is fine (they/them preferred)
1- When did you start playing Choices? What was the first book you played? 
Best guess would be back in January of 2018. It was a joke at first since a friend saw one of their god-awful ads and said we should both try it. Next thing you know, we were both arguing over which books were better and regretting our decision to start. Though their opinions on what constitutes good books are almost as bad as the Choices ad that got us to jokingly play (and I say this most lovingly because they are awesome and I love them). I started with Most Wanted, and my friend started with The Freshman. 
2- When and why did you join Choices fandom?
Oh gods! I joined back in March 2019. I know I’m a Tumblr baby by most everyone’s standards, but that feels like a really long time. I joined when Open Heart book one was released. I had lurked, reading fanfics, for a few months before biting the bullet and creating a blog and actually posting. Only joined because I was taking my editor’s advice and writing something entirely outside my norm to break a particularly bad case of writer’s block. Thought I might as well share those silly things if I was taking the time to write them. Maybe someone would enjoy them. Never did plan on sticking around, but found so many lovely people that I’ve come to call friends.
3- How did you pick your blog name? 
It was lilyofchoices. My name + Choices because I am super creative like that with those sorts of naming things 😅 I changed it to lilyoffandoms when I left the Choices fandom for a bit. I’ve thought about changing it more times than I can count but I can’t bring myself to actually follow through on it. How do y’all’s change your blog name with each new book release? You are a crazy different breed of tumblr and you fascinate me.
4- Pull up the first post in your archive, and tell us about it!  
I deleted the first one years ago. It was my first drabble. Currently, as it stands, the first thing in my archive is this post about Desire and Decorum, and it still makes me giggle.
5- How long have you been writing fanfiction?
I’ve only been writing fanfic since I joined Tumblr. I never really tried writing fanfic before that. Some nonfiction personal things before that but never anything like this world. It's been an adventure, to say the least haha
6- What is your favorite Choices book, and what is your favorite Choices book to write about?
My favorite book is probably Blades of Light and Shadow, book one, but there are plenty that are really close behind. This is also the book I’d say I enjoy writing for the most because it is my favorite book, contains my favorite LI, and has one of my favorite OCs (Maiele) in it.
Though recently, I’ve been writing more for Crimes of Passion because it's more of a challenge for me. It's a different vibe between the MC and the LI and it's one I don’t often explore so I’m here for that right now. But I have a sneaky suspicion once Blades 2 drops I’ll be back on my bullshit with that again.
7- Share the first fanfic you wrote with us. Do you still like it, or would you change it if you were writing it today?
I don’t think it exists on this site anymore. Maybe in someone’s reblog? I still have it in my files. It was an Ethan x MC drabble featuring my MC, Merida. I still like it. I’d not change it cuz I’m a firm believer in writing it and don’t look back haha.
This is it:
He swallowed the lump forming in his throat, trying to hold back the tears that were threatening to form in his eyes. There it was. He had told her. Dr. Banerji was dying and Ethan was at a loss as to what was ailing his mentor and friend. Ethan stared at the young woman in front of him and then to the floor. He cleared his throat and made a small motion to turn back into Naveen’s room but froze instantly the moment he noticed her take a step towards him.
She threw her arms around him and hugged him, wishing to take away all of his pain, all of his loneliness. Silently willing him to understand that she cared for him. Cared deeply for him and much more than she should. “Ethan. I’m so sorry,” she whispered, one hand stroked through his hair while the other grasped his neck and slowly bent his head toward her shoulders as she raised herself to her tiptoes to meet him halfway.
He tensed upon feeling her arms around him. Arms, he thought to himself, that he had imagined holding him for a number of weeks now. Ever since that night spent sitting up with her watching little baby Ethan. “Merida,” he sighed as he gradually relaxed into the embrace.
She didn’t let up on the hug, squeezing him to her just a bit more tightly. God, she had wanted to comfort him when Dolores died but she didn’t know how he would respond. Now, he was facing the possibility of another friend dying and she couldn’t help herself.
He responded to the increased pressure of her hug and tightened his own hold upon her. Finding himself tracing circles up her spine and imagining what it would feel like to move his hands to tease along the skin of her back where her pants met her shirt.
Her breath caught when she felt his hands move lower. No longer making gentle movements along her spine but increasing their pressure upon her body, nearly massaging their way lower. She brought one of her own hands around to his chest, lightly bunching his white coat in her fist to try and pull him closer to her.
A loud crash echoed down the hall. “Shit!” a construction worker cursed. The two doctors jumped back from each other both staring into each other’s eyes seeming to question if they had both felt the same in the other’s arms. She blushed slightly. “I should see to my other patients. Dr. Banerji’s condition stays between us. Understand, Rookie?” he stated, his eyes narrowing. She nodded and he turned and marched down the hall.
8- What is your favorite fic that you’ve written?
I love asking this question of others but don’t like it asked of me. I’m so bad at self-rep and advertising my wares 😂 But if I had to pick one, I’d say this one. It was so far outside my comfort zone when it came to writing that I almost abandoned it two paragraphs in. But I’m a stubborn person, and I refused to let it beat me. Plus, I had been wanting to write a noir fic for this book since it was released. Furthermore, I adore Hayden’s work too much not to gift a little something back for all the art he shares with us, so I knew I just had to make it work.
9- Do you have a fic that you didn’t expect to be well received, but it was? What about one you expected to be but found could use a little more love?
I didn’t expect last year’s Luck of the Draw fic to garner much love. Attention? Maybe. But not love and definitely not the response I got. I really enjoyed writing that one. 
10- If you could write only angst, fluff, or smut for the rest of your writing life, which would it be and why? 
Fluff. I’m a sucker for happy-ever-afters and an endless hopeless romantic. Give me the fluff. All the fluff. 
I pull a lot of what I toss into my silly drabbles from real life. Always been a believer in writing, most often what you know, and sprinkle that all with a dash of the stuff you don’t as a treat. And my life is pretty fluffy thanks to my incredible partner. 
However, I do so adore angst I’m just not able to write it often because it hurts more to write. But I’ll always always read it. That pain is *chef’s kisses*
11- Do you ever recognize yourself in any of your MCs or in your writing?
Maiele, my Blades MC, is most definitely me coded. His whole personality, his choice of partner when it comes to personality, his constant flirting with said partner, his sense of humor, his lack of a filter most times, it’s all pretty much me. Gabriel, my CoP MC, is me when it comes to romantic gestures and Valentine’s Day. I may be a romantic, but I get weird when it’s aimed at me 😂 
12- What element of writing do you struggle with most?
Editing. I refuse to do it. I hate it with the burning light of a thousand suns. Those of you that manage to edit your fics have all my admiration. I honestly don’t know how y’all do it. Doesn’t it just bore you to no end? 
13- Do you have any neglected work you really want to finish?
I have more drafts than I care to admit. I would like to complete a series I started long ago for Ethan x Merida, but I don’t know if I’ll ever do that. I’d settle for finishing one of my drafts 😅
14- If someone you know in real life (who isn’t involved in fandoms) asked to read your work, would you let them? If yes, what would you recommend they read first? 
Nope, haha, I’d not be able to do that. If I were that brave, I’d recommend this one maybe. I do so love Flynn. Or this one, mostly because I do so love the idea of Gabriel just pouting on the couch.
15 - Are there any writers (published authors and/or fanfic writers) who influenced your writing?
Not really. I mean all of em probably. I read a lot of books in a lot of genres. Mostly I use my drabbles as morning warm ups for my day job. 
There are definitely fanfic writers I admire around here that encourage me to share my silly things everyday. Especially all those queer writers out there that have a rather thankless existence sometimes around here but keep sharing their stories! They are all my heroes!!
16- Which one of your stories would you most like to see as a movie/series? 
Any and all of my Maiele and Tyril stories. I just love them sooooo much!!
17- Do you write original fiction? 
Yes, but until recently, I wrote mostly nonfiction.
I do have a fic I began a few years back when I was still teaching. I had a student who hated their writing class, so I promised to write a short story alongside them and read it to the class like all the students had to if they gave it an honest go. 
They did and so I did too, and I was asked the following year to do it again by more students and so I continued the same story. I’ve since continued that same fic, and maybe someday I’ll actually go looking to publish it. 
18 -  What other hobbies do you have?
I love the outdoors. Hiking, spelunking, kayaking, gardening, camping, anything and everything outdoors. My other favorite hobby, which I've done for years and years, is fencing. I still am part of a club and teach a few levels. 
19 - What’s your favorite emoji? 
😅 because it’s legit my state of existence at this point in life. 
20: BONUS - tell us anything you’d like (if you want to).
I want to send a special shout-out to all the absolutely lovely participants of August’s writer appreciation event I hosted. I still cannot believe y’all did this for me. 😘 These are each of my favorite fics you’ve written. Thank you for making our fandom a little brighter each and every day!
@aallotarenunelma Bathed in Sunlight @coffeeheartaddict2 Moths to a Flame @karahalloway A Leviathan Surprise @jerzwriter A Mother's Journal @ladylamrian Ma Cherie @mydemonsdrivealimo Run, Run @peonyblossom We're Gonna Get Married @petiteboheme Familia @storyofmychoices Passing Shower @tessa-liam All is Fair in Love and War @trappedinfanfiction What's In a Name? Lily's Top Three Commissions can be found here:
Crimes of Passion by @javsarts
A Year of Kisses by various artists: @lethendralis-paints @cashweasel @kundool @deheerkonijn @javsarts @weetlebeetle @kollapsar @mooreaux @rosefuckinggenius @/ArtbyAinna (IG) @littlestpersimmon @callmebeem
Trystan x Noel by @rosefuckinggenius
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kristinamae093 · 18 days
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Ghosted
Ghosted - Altering Visions (Chapter Eleven)
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Series Summary - Prince Liam fell for Riley Brooks hard and fast. A marriage filled with love and devotion was within his reach. But everything changed when she vanished just before the end of the social season. As everyone voices their concerns regarding her scandalous departure, a confession from an unlikely source turns Liam's world upside down and makes him question everything around him.
Book/Pairing - TRR - Liam x f!MC (Riley Brooks)
A/N 1 - This AU starts right before the beginning of the engagement tour. There is a two-month lapse between the coronation and where we pick up, but we will stray from canon. Please excuse any errors found.
A/N 2 - It's been a while 🥲. Here's hoping it doesn't take me another six months to post the next chapter 😬🫡.
PSA it's a long one. Whoops, lol.
Characters belong to Pixelberry.
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Liam fluttered his eyes open a short time later and squinted them against the harsh, blinding light blocking his view. When he took a deep breath, a distinct, stale aroma invaded his senses; it sparked some kind of recognition even before he could fully view his surroundings. He slowly sat up with a groan and blinked until his vision centered. He glanced around and noticed the outdated wood panels, along with the oval shape of the sconces. There was only one estate in all of Cordonia with those outdated features, and he noted that fact immediately. 
Panic flourished through his body as Liam realized he awoke in Applewood. 
He frantically stood with labored breaths and patted his abdomen, almost to ensure he was real. He pinched his thigh and winced, afterward placing a trembling hand on the wall to steady himself. His mind raced as he tried to comprehend what transpired and how he’d gotten there to begin with.
The events of the night suddenly invaded his thoughts. The image of a lifeless Penelope in Landon’s arms engraved and forever etched itself into his memory; he felt guilty, enraged, defeated, and a slew of other emotions.
Penelope was the big break they’d hunted high and low for. She held vital information Liam desperately needed, but seemingly would take her secrets to the grave with her. He couldn’t understand any of it — nothing made sense. The list of unanswered questions swirling around was enough to make him nauseous. A carousel of sorrow and confusion he couldn’t seem to slow down — no matter how hard he tried. 
Amid his tilt-a-whirl moment, an angelic voice rang out not far away, drawing him back to the present. “Who are you? What are you doing here?” 
Liam’s thundering heart suddenly stopped as recognition swept over him. He’d been so entrapped in his thoughts, he hadn't even noticed what portion of the estate he was in. 
Only a few inches away was a door he remembered all too well — Riley’s. His eyes welled with tears as his vision centered on the structure, but as much as Liam wanted to rush to her, he physically couldn’t. The receptors in his brain went crazy — a jolt of electricity shot to his legs, demanding he move, but his feet weighed hundreds of pounds. Dazed and confused, he could only gawk at the blockade separating them. 
“Lady Riley, we have much to discuss — have a seat,” another individual answered. Liam knew it was a male but couldn’t place his identity; although it sounded familiar, as if he could remember it from a vague, distant memory. 
“Tell me who you are and what the hell you’re doing here!” Liam’s blood ran cold at Riley’s tone; the fear and adrenaline were prominent in her shaky voice. His breaths quickened and his instincts screamed to rush to her, but again, his feet refused to cooperate. 
“That wasn’t a request — I told you to have a seat.” Again, Liam swore he could recall that voice, but couldn’t fully register it. He thought about it for a split second until the sounds of a loud screech and a shatter echoed behind the door. 
“Don’t touch me!” Riley hollered, instantly breaking Liam’s trance. He lunged for the doorknob, but when he twisted his wrist, it snapped and turned to dust in his palm. The disintegrated fragments floated to the floor in slow motion, his heart following suit. 
“You’re so beautiful when you squirm.” Liam gasped as he fully recognized that person — it was Tariq. “But if you don’t fucking stand still–”
“Riley! RILEY!” Liam forcefully pounded on the structure. “Open this door! Open it, goddamnit!” He bellowed, but the commotion inside continued, escalating by the second. The next instant, he sprinted down the hall, frantically hunting for somebody — anybody — to get him inside that room. “I need some help!” He hauled over to the other side and yelled once more, but faced only cold, deserted silence. 
His vision darted all around the area before he spotted a window at the end of the seemingly never-ending hallway. Liam sprinted to it and gazed at the scene below. Outside, he could see the country jamboree still in full swing. He scoured the crowd and spotted everyone except Riley; Drake, Hana, Madeleine, and upon further inspection, he saw himself at the head table beside his father. He stumbled backward with a strangled breath, truly dumbfounded by what was going on. 
As Liam recovered, he re-approached the window and banged on it. “Hey! Hey!” He wailed, but nobody below batted an eye. His hits came harder and harder, but the glass never even cracked; his hand took the damage, although he felt no pain. 
The only thing he heard was Riley’s pleas for help, the sounds making his desperation grow by the second. He rushed back to the door and ran full force at it, using his shoulder as a battering ram; it wouldn’t budge. He repeated the process — again and again — but never even split the wood. Liam let out a primal wail and fisted his hair, taking deep breaths to preserve any semblance of sanity. His pulse thundered in his ears and tears stung the corners of his eyes, while he frantically determined what to do.   
He took a step back and realized there was a shadow cast over the doorway. It appeared to be a man, standing with his arms crossed. He wasn’t sure if it was there before, but Liam waved his hand and nothing changed the stony silhouette. The fixture remained cemented in place, not flinching or moving a muscle, regardless of the commotion developing beyond.
“LIAM!” Riley suddenly screamed, ripping him from his trance. He was up against the structure in an instant, using every ounce of strength he had to force his way through, but his attempts were futile. Riley repeatedly called for him and every time, a dagger went straight through Liam’s already hollowed-out chest.
He couldn’t control his overflowing tears at hearing her cry out for him. No matter what he did, he couldn’t get inside; they wouldn’t acknowledge him, nobody came to help, and there was nothing he could do except sit and listen. With a loud sob, he slid down the door and sat in front of it, hoping at some point it would open and he could get to her. 
Riley’s whimpers continued throughout the vicinity, but Liam’s skin turned ice cold as he heard laughter inside; not Riley’s, and certainly not cheerful. The vile sound caused all the color to drain from his face. He leaned his head against the door and completely broke down, letting the devastation and defeat wash over him. 
“I — I’m sorry Riley…” He swallowed thickly, but soon let out an anguished cry. “I’m so sorry…”
The room went eerily quiet for a long while; Liam couldn’t hear much except the sound of his heart shattering, but eventually, the voices began once more. With a shuddered breath, he held his ear up to listen. 
“When will I receive payment?” Tariq questioned. 
“You don’t need to worry about that. Where you’re going, you won’t need it.” 
“W–what do you mean?! I did what I was called to do!” Tariq’s panic was clear to Liam, even without seeing his face. His pulse somehow thundered faster, carefully processing every word.
“There is too much at stake — more than your simple mind could ever understand. For this to work, you need to disappear. You’re a weak, pathetic excuse of a man — we can not risk this entire operation being ousted because of a lousy nuisance.” 
“I swear to it — you have my allegiance and my silence.” Tariq pleaded. “I will disappear, and—” 
“You’re going to, alright — the both of you.” 
What little color remaining in Liam’s complexion drained, and the shakiness in his hands amplified. After a split-second of complete and utter stillness, the phrase resonated and ignited a deadly determination within.
Liam sprung up and kicked the door with all his might. “LET ME IN!” He repeated the process, but again, the barrier showed no signs of weakening. He threw his fists at the structure in a mad frenzy — anything to get inside and get to Riley, then deal with this — man. 
“Liam! Liam! LIAM!” Leo yelled. He repetitively jabbed the button next to Liam's head to summon the nurse, as his brother flailed in his hospital bed. 
Liam was being monitored for dehydration, severe exhaustion, and a touch of malnutrition. Doctors said he had a panic attack, which combined with everything else, made him lose consciousness. All his labs came back normal, thankfully; Leo was worried someone could have slipped Liam something, but the hospital was quick to put that suspicion to rest. 
Since Liam arrived, he had been resting comfortably, but that changed about twenty minutes ago; it started with small groans and subtle movements, but soon turned into blood-curdling cries and forceful thrashes. Leo hoped he would wake himself, but Liam was getting drastically worse with every passing second. 
Liam suddenly flew forward with a loud gasp. His tearful eyes darted all around the room while he grabbed at his gown-covered body. As the world centered, a tidal wave of frustration and confusion washed over him. 
When Liam stopped and stared down at his clasped hands, Leo cautiously re-approached the bed. “Liam?” When he didn’t answer, Leo spoke a little louder. “... Li?”
“I was there.” Liam weakly croaked, his vision locked on his lap.
Leo’s brows furrowed. “Where?” 
“I heard it.”
“Heard what?”
“Riley…” Liam whispered, followed by a shuddered breath.  
“What about her?” 
“I was there… th–that night… just n–now—” Liam stammered, struggling to make sense of the situation. “I couldn’t get in…”
Leo’s heart instantly shattered at seeing the devastation in Liam’s features. “They gave you some medication, Li.” He reasoned. “It’s possible that—”
“I KNOW WHAT I HEARD!” Liam bellowed. The nurse appeared next to him and attempted to speak, but he shouted, “GET OUT!” 
Leo lifted his hands in surrender. “I believe you, Liam… Tell me what happened.” 
“She yelled for me…” Liam faintly answered, refusing to make eye contact. “She yelled and screamed and — I couldn’t get inside, Leo... I tried, but — I — I… I couldn’t save her…” 
Leo took a deep breath to gather his thoughts and responded in a calm, reassuring voice. “Liam, it’s been a long couple of days and I know this has been incredibly rough on you–” 
“STOP PATRONIZING ME! I KNOW WHAT I HEARD!” 
Leo remained reluctant to entertain this idea. He knew Liam was dreaming, but at that moment, he was completely irrational. Leo had never seen him in such a way, even when his mother died. Given the past couple of weeks, the events of that night, and the medication, there was no rationalizing with him — Liam was spiraling, and bad. But perhaps if he entertained the notion — for now — Liam would eventually calm down.  
Leo carefully spoke. “What did you hear?” 
Liam stayed silent for a long moment before he turned his head to meet eyes with Leo. The look on Liam’s face slightly took him aback; the determination in his features was deadly — his sunken, puffy eyes were nearly black. 
Liam let out a long, sharp huff of air and sternly explained, “There were two male voices. I can say with confidence one was Tariq, but as far as the other, I — I don’t know…” He shook his head with furrowed brows as he racked every recollection in his brain. He could almost visualize the man in question, but his face appeared blurred and no matter how hard he tried, he couldn’t clear the fog. 
“Alright, well, let’s just take a minute to—”
“They were fucking laughing, Leo. They assaulted her and laughed about it.” Liam growled, his chest rising and falling with every sullen breath. “I want Tariq found, now. He’s going to pay for ever laying a fucking finger on her. I swear to God, Leo — I will put an end to his sorry existence with my bare hands.” He clenched his palms, squeezing hard enough to turn his knuckles white. 
Leo once again held his hands up in surrender and replied in a soft voice. “I believe you. Just — take a couple of deep breaths and try to relax—” 
“What if she didn’t leave Cordonia?” Liam suddenly blurted out. “What if she’s…” He trailed off, swallowing thickly. No part of him wanted to finish that statement in any fashion; the unending possibilities gave him instant nausea. “That man… he said, ‘where you’re going you won’t need it’, and then h–he said both of you... BOTH OF YOU, Leo!” He ran his palms over his head from front to back, repeating the process with a crazed look in his eye. 
Leo opened his mouth to speak, but Liam swiftly continued. “It would make sense… Tariq has been untraceable… But–but Riley…. She — Bastien told me she went back to New York. But that person… I know I heard him say it… Where you’re going you won’t need it, where you’re going you won’t need it—” He repeated to himself, his voice diminishing with every anguished syllable. He clutched his hands into fists and forcefully yanked at his hair, rocking himself back and forth. 
“Li,” Leo cautiously started. When Liam whipped his head to look at him, Leo was once more temporarily shocked by the fury and turmoil staring back at him; he realized Liam was hastily elevating himself to a dangerous level. “We can’t jump to conclusions… Okay? Let’s just take a deep breath and try to calm down—” 
“Don’t tell me to calm down, Leo! I KNOW WHAT I HEARD!” Liam shouted as he ripped the IV from his arm, the pain not even phasing him. He ditched the rest of his connections shortly after and dashed out of bed. “Where are my CLOTHES?”
“I’m not saying you didn’t,” Leo reasoned as he followed his brother’s movements. “All I’m suggesting is that we take a step back and really think about this—” 
“I’m tired of taking a step back! Look where that’s gotten us!” Liam seethed. “There is so much goddamn blood on my hands! I let her get hurt! I am responsible for all of this madness—” 
“Stop that — right now,” Leo sternly returned. “You know that is not true even in the slightest.” 
“Say it to MY FACE then, Leo!” Liam barked as he invaded his brother’s personal space. “LIE to my fucking face!” 
“It’s not a lie, Liam,” Leo stood a little taller. “You are not responsible–” He stopped as Liam rolled his eyes and looked away. This time, it was Leo who stepped up to Liam. “No — look at me,” He bore his eyes into his brother, forcing him to see the truth in his gaze. “You are not responsible for any of this, Liam. We’re going to figure this out, I promise.” 
Liam studied the conviction staring back at him and his frustration soared. He spun away and grabbed the bedside table, sending it flying with a primal roar. 
Leo flinched as the wood shattered against the wall, but knew he had to calm Liam down. However, the person he was trying to reason with was not the version of Liam he was used to; this was a side Leo didn’t know lay dormant in his normally calm and stoic baby brother.
“Liam,” Leo softly started. “This is an incredibly shitty situation, and I’m so sorry that you’re being put through this. I love you, and I’m always here for you no matter what.” He confidently stated, but after a moment of silence, hesitantly added, “But I just don’t think a dream is—” 
“I don’t give a damn what you say, Leo! Someone is going to pay for this!” Liam growled, his face reddening with every deep, labored breath. He directed his attention back to his earlier quest for his clothes; he didn’t know where he was going or who he was looking for, but someone was going to feel the wrath of the King of Cordonia — tonight.  
Olivia didn’t even bother to knock before she and Ray joined the room. The pair opted to stay behind and investigate in Portavira a little further — that is until a random guard threw them out. Without Liam or Leo there to ensure their access, they were told to vacate the premises shortly after Liam left for the hospital. Regardless, they had enough time to prove at least one pivotal thing about that ordeal, and possibly solve quite a few others — if Liam believed them. 
They walked in and stopped short at Liam’s crazed expression. “What’s going on?” Olivia sought. 
“I’m leaving,” Liam bit out through clenched teeth. 
“Hold on, we need to talk about something—” 
“Move out of my way!” 
Olivia arched her brow. “We need transparency, Liam. Tell me what is going on — calmly.” 
“I was there, Olivia! I heard it! They fucking attacked her!” Liam bellowed as he found his garments and rifled through the bag. 
Olivia placed a gentle hand on his shoulder to stop his mad dash. “Liam, please — I need a full explanation. I’m not stopping you or downplaying anything, but we need to know what the hell you’re talking about.” 
Liam met her eyesight and saw the genuine interest in her gaze. He could tell Leo thought he was baffling, but he wasn’t. He couldn’t fathom the experience, but knew that was no dream; with every fiber of his being, Liam believed what he heard was reality. The universe mercilessly gifted him a blocked front-row seat — it was a curse, yet oddly a blessing. They spent all this time wondering what happened that night, but now he had a soundtrack to re-play. He wasn’t willing to rest until he deciphered this code, to ensure justice would be swift to all who deserved it. 
He explained in great detail his occurrence and exactly what happened. When he finished, he stared blankly at the floor, cradling his head in his trembling hands; he knew how wild it sounded but didn’t particularly care. It felt so real — so raw. Just thinking about the vile chortles raised goosebumps on his arms, and Riley’s screams now played on an insistent loop in his mind — torment that would never stop. Even if good trumped evil and Riley was located safely in the end, those sounds would be a continuous source of torture until he took his final breath. 
Olivia listened intently to everything he recalled. At the surface, she knew how preposterous it sounded — it was a dream, regardless of how strongly Liam felt otherwise. Her heart ached for her friend at that moment; clearly, everything that happened was taking a major toll on her childhood friend. 
But — given the bombshell she and Ray sat upon, Olivia couldn’t help but wonder if there could be some truth to Liam’s encounter. 
Olivia sat forward and patted Liam’s leg with the gentlest of touches. When she spoke, it was calm and reassuring. “I’m not sure what to say, Liam. I realize you want to believe it to be true, but you and I both know it’s nothing concrete…” Liam opened his mouth to respond, but Olivia held her hand up to stop him, as she saw the fire burning behind his narrowed eyes. “Let me finish… I know tonight has been hard on you for a lot of reasons, but I believe Ray and I have found a very promising lead…”
Liam’s ears visibly rose as his interest grew. “What do you mean?” 
“Sir, I know it’s not what you initially hired me for, but there are a lot of things that do not add up in this current situation...” Ray started. “Between some of Lady Penelope’s behaviors, her father’s statements, and this—” He produced his phone from his pocket and handed it to Liam. “I find it very hard to believe she took her own life.” 
Liam glanced at the device in his hands and realized he was looking at a photo of Penelope’s last statements. He read through it and found nothing of relevance; no mention of Riley, her involvement in the scandal, the maid, nothing. It was incredibly vague, considering it was her concluding words to the world. 
“Why are you showing me this?” Liam demanded as confusion and annoyance rushed through him. 
Olivia produced a document from her pocket. After questioning the legitimacy of the note left in Riley’s room, she wanted to have it near in case the situation arose. “You remember my blackmail letter — the one I got the night of your coronation?” She handed him the paper.
Liam held both items and scanned back and forth; he gasped when he realized they were nearly identical. “But, this — this means—” 
“Someone took her out, Liam.” Olivia finished. 
“I’m not positive if someone would have done it for her, or if she felt pressured into doing it. Either way, since she was saying goodbyes to her family, that leads me to believe Penelope knew she was in danger and foresaw her demise.” Ray added. 
“This is impossible!” Liam shook his head, his rage returning full force. “How does this keep happening?!” 
Olivia and Ray shared a look; the two calculated a theory, and it seemed the more that unfolded, the greater that assumption solidified itself. There wasn’t a lot of evidence to point fingers, but Olivia realized they couldn’t wait any longer; if they were correct, this situation just escalated tenfold. Liam already teetered an incredibly dangerous ledge, but perhaps that’s what the circumstances called for. Plus, after his — experience, she knew he would believe them. 
Olivia softly started. “I need you to stay as calm as possible — at least until I’m finished and we know for certain who we’re directing this hostility at.” Liam nodded with furrowed brows, but Leo shifted uncomfortably in his seat. “I don’t know what to say about your — encounter, but — there is reason for us to believe Riley could be in Cordonia.” 
“WHAT?!” Liam practically choked as all the color drained from his face. Even though he was there and truly believed what he heard, someone else saying it out loud momentarily knocked the wind out of him. 
“I checked all outgoing flights from the night of the jamboree and she wasn’t on any of them,” Ray explained. “Every log received a thorough examination, even those with different destinations — she has yet to board a plane to exit the country, to this day. I’ve looked at other modes of transportation and she is the same as Tariq — there is nothing.” 
“But…” Leo hesitantly started after a moment of tense silence. “If that’s the case, then where is she?” 
Olivia sighed and her eyes softened. “We’re — not entirely sure at this point… Somewhere in Cordonia, but…”
“Believe me when I say I am checking everywhere.” Ray confidently inserted. “Every crack, every crevice — any place I can think of. If she truly is in the country, I will locate her.” 
“Okay, but — why haven’t we found her?” Leo returned. The uneasiness in his stomach suddenly bolted to the back of his throat, securing itself and taking root. As he took in Ray’s uncertainty, the lump multiplied in size. 
“I — I don’t have an answer for that right now,” Ray calmly returned. “But I’m working around the clock and using every resource I have to uncover her location. I know those sound like empty promises, but I assure you — I will not rest until Lady Riley is located safely.” He emphasized.
Liam’s heart pounded so fast, he was sure it would give out at any moment. “I — She — B–but —” He stammered, trying his hardest to comprehend the conversation. “Bastien told me—”
“I think Bastien is involved.” Olivia abruptly cut him off. “When we found Riley’s stuff, I swear to you, Liam, I saw the fucking guilt in his eyes. Plus, he’s got his hands in everything at court. I’m not saying he’s as powerful as you, but he can twist and manipulate things like no other because of his position.” 
Olivia continued. “To be honest with you, I don’t think any of us really believe Penelope killed that maid. During the social season, I saw her cry over a fucking crab bite — you can’t tell me she murdered someone in cold blood. Also, I’m thinking, based on his actions tonight, Bastien knew Penelope was already dead — I’m nearly certain of it.”
“Not to mention, he kept this information to himself until we were ready to question her,” Ray added. “I know for certain those reports take only a few days — most likely less if it’s a priority case. I haven’t seen the photos from your first crime scene, but I can tell it was a setup from Olivia’s descriptions. As the head guard, it would’ve been easy for him to manipulate the situation.” 
“Are you sure, though?” Leo interjected. “I mean, I’ve dealt with Bastien a lot over the years, and I can say he is not a genius. Maybe the opposite — butter knives are sharper than he is.”
“He’s capable, though — that’s what troubles me. I think most of the time he gives off the impression he’s useless, but he’s highly trained in a sum of areas.” Olivia explained. “I sincerely doubt he’s the mastermind behind everything, but I’m confident he’s the reason we keep being set back. Who’s always around? Who’s the one directing these ‘investigations’? It’s him.“
“I — damn…” Leo ran a hand through his hair with wide eyes. “You’re not wrong, and it does kind of make sense…” 
Everyone suddenly recognized Liam remained mute as they spoke. His face showed no emotions; he only stared at Olivia as if she wasn’t even there with an unreadable expression. Liam was a world away as various open ends snapped themselves into place. The murky waters of uncertainty clarified, and the bottom of the cesspool became sharper with every jumbled thought dashing through his mind.
All security decisions went through Bastien, including unauthorized entry into an estate. Bastien was the one investigating the maid’s death, and he was accountable for the search for Riley and Tariq — until Ray came along. Bastien didn’t want to let Ray into Penelope’s room because he knew what was in there, and realized Ray would see right through it; past the stuff even Olivia would have missed. He could outsmart her, but knew he couldn’t Ray, which ultimately meant Bastien knew of Ray’s true purpose. He continuously told Liam he was working to provide answers, but suddenly, he believed Bastien’s intentions to be the exact opposite. 
This whole time, a mole sat right under his nose, continuously feeding them the vaguest of answers. Every time they took a step forward, it was never because of Bastien, but someone always ensured they took two back. He didn’t understand how whoever held the cards seemed to be a move ahead, but now — it made sense. 
Liam thought back to all these instances and realized he didn’t remember seeing Bastien. The night of the country jamboree, a different person escorted him to his room at the end of the night. He never questioned it because it wasn’t unheard of for guards to switch out positions, but now he wondered where Bastien truly was. 
The night of the Apple Banquet, he recalled seeing him at the start of it, but not again until Bastien barged in to inform him of the discovery. Now, he couldn’t help but speculate Bastien took the maid’s life himself, or at least staged the scene to frame Penelope. 
Tonight, before Bastien came to Liam and gave him the news of their suspect, he was nowhere to be found; until Olivia, Ray, and Leo left to interrogate Penelope. 
When Bastien told Liam their person of interest was Penelope, he was in a state of disbelief. Liam questioned him, but Bastien stood his ground. However, now he believed with everything in him, Bastien knew she was already dead and intended to manipulate the circumstances further.
Since he opened his eyes to the truth, he often felt as if he mindlessly ran in a circle, desperately trying to piece small portions of a scattered puzzle together. Now he realized he was — and Bastien directed the never-ending laps, all while dangling tiny slivers of hope in front of Liam’s face — taunting him.
Ultimately, Liam concluded without a shadow of uncertainty — Bastien knew what happened to Riley, and likely held knowledge regarding her location.
Liam suddenly shot up from the edge of his hospital bed. “BASTIEN!” He bellowed at an ear-piercing volume, loud enough to rattle the windows. 
Leo winced. “H–he’s not here, Li.”
“What the fuck do you mean, he’s not here?!” 
“There’s some other guy outside!” 
“He was still lingering around Penelope’s room when Ray and I left.” Olivia chimed in. 
“That’s it — I’m going to find him,” Liam growled through clenched jaws. 
“Liam, wait—” 
“NO MORE WAITING, OLIVIA! Do you see what is happening?! All the blood that’s being shed?! This has to stop!”
“I know and I agree. But we need some kind of strategy–”
“No — this ends now.” Liam bit out. He hastily made his way to the bathroom with his bag of clothes, slamming the door shut behind him. 
Olivia had half a mind to stop Liam until they had some kind of plan, but also felt time was of the essence. If they couldn’t prove Riley left the country, their urgency had to intensify. Her location remained unknown, but they believed she was at least in New York. When Ray first mentioned the possibility that she never left the country, Olivia didn’t want to believe it; after Penelope’s untimely demise, she realized this was a vicious, bloody pattern, and the suspicion needed to be taken seriously.
As the body count rose, Olivia’s concerns steadily increased. If history repeated itself, everyone involved would meet a deadly fate, but they didn’t have a detailed log of all entangled in this web. They had no clue where Riley’s name lay on the list of potential victims, and now they held very little information regarding her whereabouts. An involuntary shudder traveled down Olivia’s spine as the air in the room shifted, filling with an amplified haze of grim uncertainty felt heavily by everyone.
Olivia wholeheartedly believed Riley was alive, but for how much longer she couldn’t determine. The lingering feelings of uneasiness in her gut told her they were correct — she never left Cordonia — and if that was the case, her safety was more in question now than ever before.  
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Within the hour, Liam left the hospital and was on his way back to the main estate in Portavira. Although doctors wished to keep him longer, he left AMA — he didn’t need fluids; he didn’t need rest; he needed Riley. If Bastien knew something, he was going to tell them, even if he had to use brute force.
A part of him didn’t want to believe it, but the more he pondered, the more sense it made. A small portion of his heart wanted to give Bastien the benefit of the doubt, but that was no longer an option. The betrayal Liam felt was like no other and quickly created a raging storm inside of him, simply waiting to be unleashed.
Hearing Riley could still be in Cordonia, combined with his out-of-body experience, the need to locate her was higher than ever. Of course, he wondered where she ended up when he believed she went back to the States, but now even that was up in the air. The one thing holding Liam above water was knowing she was far away from the carnage, but that was no longer a valid crutch. The waves of despair rose dangerously high, threatening to overtake and drag him under in one fell swoop. 
Liam tried his hardest to push the instantaneous bad thoughts away, but could feel it in his bones — Riley was in danger. From the beginning, he’d always thought something felt off, but he let his pride stand in the way of seeing the truth. Now it was impossible to ignore, as it tore away at his conscience. Guilty wasn’t even a suitable word to describe how he felt, knowing his negligence let this monstrosity escalate as it had. He turned his back on Riley when she needed him most; she screamed for him, yet he tried his damnedest to leave her in the past for so long. 
However, he used all his willpower to remain in the moment and stay afloat; the only thing he cared about was Riley. Even if they found her and she wanted nothing to do with him, he simply needed to see with his own two eyes that she was safe. He didn’t want to think about why she could still be in Cordonia, but the growing ache in his chest told him it wasn’t a good reason. 
The SUV pulled up to the front entrance of the estate, and Liam didn’t even wait for it to come to a complete stop. He rushed out and barged in through the front doors with fire under his feet. The halls remained eerily quiet as the nobility slept, but he was sure word traveled about not only his hospital stay but Penelope’s tragic passing. Leo, Olivia, and Ray all trailed behind as he ran at top speed. 
Liam dashed up the stairs and rounded the corner, but abruptly stopped once Penelope’s room came into view. The door had yellow caution tape covering the opening, and Liam heard Bastien’s voice inside; the sound reigniting the rage burning deep within. He went to make a bee-line for the door, but a timid hand on his forearm ceased his movements. 
“Y–Your Majesty,” Emmaline got out through hiccups. She retracted her hand with wide eyes and shakily bowed as he faced her. Liam’s features momentarily softened as he took in her running mascara and puffy eyes. “P–Please, Sir… I beg you to reconsider… Please — s–she wouldn’t d–do this…” 
Liam’s brows furrowed. “What do you mean?”
“We were told they’ve ruled Penelope’s d–death… They w–were picking everything up but n–nobody would listen to us! That wasn’t her handwriting. She–she wouldn’t do this… None of it… She was happy — she wouldn’t—” Emmaline shook her head as more tears fell. 
Liam placed a gentle hand on Emmaline’s shoulder and firmly responded, “I apologize for what you were told, but that is not the case — it will become a homicide investigation as soon as I can get someone else assigned. I promise you — I am going to figure out what happened and ensure she receives the justice she deserves.” 
Emmaline swallowed a sob. “W–where did they take her body? They wouldn’t tell us. T–they came in and ripped my baby out of my arms and I don’t know where she is and—”
“Wait, who took her?” 
“Your head guard said h–he had the authority to — remove her.” Emmaline squeezed her eyes closed as her tears fell harder, trying her hardest to wake herself from this nightmare.
Liam used every ounce of resolve he had not to march straight up to Bastien and securely wrap a hand around his throat. “Emmaline, I assure you — I will find her and bring her home. You have my word — I am going to figure this out.” He reiterated, but the fury coursing through his veins was at an all-time high. The amount Bastien thought he could get away with made Liam sick to his stomach, but he was determined to put a stop to it. 
His answers were suffusive for Emmaline, so she bowed and made her leave. After taking a microscopic moment to gain some clarity, Liam addressed Ray. “Since I am removing Bastien, I need you to take over. And I want you to backtrack and look into Rhonda’s homicide as well. I’m not sure if you’ll be able to find anything, but I want you to double-check. I’ll ensure you have access to everything you need, and I’ll inform everyone you are now in charge here. The crown will compensate you generously for your additional time and effort.” 
“Yes, sir,” Ray returned with a confident smile.
“Leo, I need you to figure out where he’s sending Penelope. I’m going to ask him, but in case he won’t tell me, I need her found before anyone messes with or blatantly destroys her body — there is no doubt in my mind that’s where she’s headed. Grab Maxwell and have him help you — I want her returned at once.” 
“You got it.” Leo nodded before he swiftly vacated the area. 
“I’m going to need some guards with me to do this,” Liam spoke, more so to himself than anyone else. 
“Guards?” Olivia repeated. 
“Yes. I won’t risk something happening to him — we will immediately detain Bastien. If he did nothing wrong, I’ll release and reinstate him, but until then, I am officially removing him from his position as head guard.” Liam answered, but regardless of what he said out loud, both of them knew Bastien was guilty; they just weren’t sure of the extent. 
Olivia smirked. “Welcome to the game, King Liam. Would you like for me to assist with questioning?” 
“I have a different job for you first. I need you to sneak into the security office and search through everything. If he’s working to cover up crimes or anything of that nature, he’s got to have something on him — I’m sure of it.” 
“Knowing that cockeyed baboon, I’d say that’s a safe assumption.” Olivia snickered. “But I don’t know if I like the idea of you interrogating him by yourself...” She cast him an unsure glance. 
“I don’t plan on it, Liv. I just need to find Drake.” 
Almost as if on cue, Drake emerged from Penelope’s doorway, carefully dodging the caution tape. He glanced around and as his eyesight landed on Liam, he furrowed his brows and approached. “What’re you doing here, Li? Are you alright?” 
“We have something to take care of.” Liam quickly and quietly laid out the current plan, as well as a vague description of their accusations. 
“Fuck, man… I gotta admit — I had no clue why Liv and that guy had to leave, but I got to stick around.” Drake shook his head, trying to comprehend this blindsiding revelation. 
“If I had to take a guess, I’d say he wanted someone Liam trusted around but needed to ensure the person was completely and utterly clueless,” Olivia inserted with a crooked grin.
Drake scoffed. “First of all, fuck you. Second, you might actually be right, but — you’re still a flaming bitch.” 
“Stop trying to flatter me, Walker,” Olivia retorted, afterward focusing on Liam. “Are we doing this?” 
Liam let out a deep huff of air. “Yeah, we are. Let’s do this.” He responded with the utmost resolution. He squared his shoulders, craned his neck from side to side, and strode into the room with Drake close behind. Olivia took off in the other direction to do her part in Liam’s plan, moving with brisk precision to reach her destination. 
As he entered, Liam got the attention of a few guards and motioned for them to follow. Bastien examined underneath Penelope’s bed, completely oblivious to the added presence in the room. He cleared his throat to gather Bastien’s attention, and Liam noticed his shoulders tense as he identified who stood before him. 
Bastien slowly rose with uncertainty painted on his features. “Your Majesty? What are you doing here? Shouldn’t you be receiving treatment?” 
Liam chortled as he stalked toward Bastien. He kept a smile plastered in place and shook his head, muttering to himself. When he made it directly in front of him, Liam lowered his voice to a low, gravely rumble; the fake grin he wore instantly replaced by a menacing scowl. “... I bet you’d like that — wouldn’t you?”
Bastien visibly and audibly swallowed. “I don’t know what you’re insinuating, sir, but I—”
“Of course not.” Liam dismissively agreed. He took a couple of steps back and shrugged. “Regardless, you’re coming with us.”
Panic flashed in Bastien’s eyes; it was brief, but Liam caught it. “With all due respect, I’m not quite finished investigating Lady Penelope’s suic—”
“That is not what this is, and you damn well know it!” Liam abruptly shouted. A tense silence hung for only a moment until he cleared his throat and flatly added, “This is a homicide, and you are no longer a part of it.” He met eyes with one guard who got the silent order loud and clear, the other following suit. They rushed Bastien and captured his arms behind his back, securely holding him in place.
“What is the meaning of this?!” Bastien hollered as he attempted to evade their grip. 
“You’re being taken into custody.” 
“Whatever for?!” Bastien demanded. 
Drake stood in Bastien’s line of sight, mirroring Liam’s irate features. He held his gaze for a long, heated moment before snapping, “You’d better hope and pray we’re wrong, Bastien.”
“What the hell are you talking about, Drake?!” Bastien yelled, squirming against the grasp of those holding him.  
Neither answered the question but merely glared at him; the sheer betrayal and outrage they felt radiated off of them, eliciting a shiver to run down Bastien’s spine. He calmly reasoned, “Sir, I don’t know what this is about, but we can have a rational conversation without all of this nonsense.” He motioned to the guards holding him. 
“No, I don’t think we can, because you see —” Liam stalked toward Bastien, staring into his eyes so intently that he could almost see the wall behind him. As he made it into his comfort zone, Liam lowered his voice and rasped, “They’re only here to get rid of your body if I have to.” He smirked at Bastien’s wide eyes, as well as his complexion paling instantaneously. 
Liam held Bastien’s gaze but addressed the guards. “Take him down to the cells. I’ll be right behind you.”
As they dragged Bastien away, he hollered and stirred up a fuss. Liam ignored his pleas, instead trying to prepare himself for what lay ahead. He wanted clarity, but a part of him dreaded Bastien’s confession; it would be another stark reminder of what his negligence caused. The guilt tearing away at his insides was at an unfathomable level, but he had to push that aside to focus on the task at hand.
He tried to keep his composure, but the gloves were off; there was no more control. Bastien knew something and regardless of what he had to do, Liam was hell bent on making him talk. Innocent lives taken and families destroyed, along with Riley’s heinous attack — all of which rested heavily on his conscience. He was determined to serve a steaming hot platter of justice to all he deemed deserving, regardless of what it took.
The next step in making that happen was getting a pig to squeal. 
As he stood next to Drake, the facade of a composed monarch slipped onto the floor. He didn’t have enough strength left to keep it together. He embraced his emotions and vowed to follow their direction, but the only thing remaining was pure, unfiltered rage. 
Gone was the timid, people-pleasing prince with his mother’s baby-blue eyes. Instead, a carnal lion with dark, dilated pupils awakened, centered on the dangling piece of meat in his face — Bastien. 
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jerzwriter · 6 months
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High Seas (2/2)
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And here is part two! Based on this ask from my bestie @icecoffee90 I hope you enjoy this, Z (and everyone else too!)
Book: Open Heart (Post Series)
Characters: Tobias Carrick, Ethan Ramsey
Category: Humorous fluff
Words: 2,500
Summary: Casey and Tobias have been looking forward to their vacation plans, a cruise on the high seas with some of his old friends from Hopkins. But when work got in the way, Casey convinced Ethan to join her husband instead. Now, out on the high seas, some confusion ensues. Will the friends turned frienemies now friends again survive?
A/N: There are author's notes at the end. Participating in @choicesflashfics Prompt 3 — “You like getting under my skin, don’t you?” and @choicesseptemberchallenge2023 Day 2 - Stars.
Part One
My Masterlist
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It was impossible to miss Ethan’s annoyance as he waited impatiently by the baggage carousel. If his tapping foot and the vein protruding from his temple weren’t proof enough, his exasperated sighs would have given him away. He has his bag in hand. Bag. He had the common sense to bring one carry-on. But not his prima donna companion was still waiting for his third.
“Jesus, Carrick! We’re gone for a week! How much did you pack?”
“Sorry,” Tobias snapped, lifting his final suitcase from the carousel. “But being fashionable matters to some of us; we’re not all Neanderthals.”  
“You’ll be fashionable back in Boston when the ship sails without us!”
Tobias stopped dead in his tracks and shot Ethan an incredulous look. “It leaves in four freaking hours! Damn! I forgot how much of a pain in the ass you were to travel with.”
Ethan opened his mouth to launch an acerbic retort, but as his words formed, he couldn’t fight the smile tugging at his lips.    
“In fairness, it’s been over a decade... and at your age, memory isn’t what it used to be.”
“I’m a year younger than you!” Tobias laughed as Ethan lagged behind. Throwing his last suitcase in the taxi’s trunk, he turned around with a smirk. “Try to keep up, old man. We don’t want to miss the boat.”
~~~~~
Somehow, Tobias managed to convince Ethan to carry one of his suitcases, and he hadn’t stopped complaining since. Having effectively tuned his friend out as they moved through the halls in search of their cabin, Tobias was relieved to see they were almost there.
“The suite is right down here,” he pointed.
“Suite?” Ethan asked. “I thought Casey said she changed it to a room?”
“She was going to, but I told her I’ll need my space if I’m stuck with you for a week. A separate sitting room and a balcony will come in handy when I can’t take listening to you anymore.”
“I love you too, Tobias. But weren’t you two getting a honeymoon suite?”
“It’s just a name, Ethan,” he laughed as they neared the door. “Casey told them there was a change in plans, so you have nothing to worry about. They promised to remove the sex swing from the room before our arrival.”
Ethan ran a hand down his face, and Tobias delighted in seeing his friend so irritated. After all, aggravating him was the man’s second favorite hobby.
“You really like getting under my skin, don’t you?” Ethan grumbled.
“Come on, sweetheart, you know that’s not true,” Tobias winked as he flung the door open. “Honey, we’re ho...”
Now, Tobias was flabbergasted, and Ethan couldn’t wait to get him back.  
“What’s the matter, dear. Are the champagne and rose petals strewn across the bed distracting?”
“Casey told them to cancel all the extras! I was there when she called.”
Ethan lifted champagne from the bucket, nodding in approval. “Krug Grande Cuvee, not bad. If this is what we can expect, please leave the romance package in place.”
“Yeah, I’ll leave that in place,” Tobias mumbled while inspecting the bed. “And it looks like I’m leaving this in place, too. They told us the suite had two beds that could be combined into one, but this thing does not come apart.”
“Now that’s a problem.”
“Yeah, I’ll go talk to guest services. They must have something else available.”
Ethan patted his friend on the back. “You do that,” he grinned, happily popping the champagne open. “I’ll be here breaking in the chair on the balcony.”
Which was exactly where Tobias found him upon his return, ending Ethan’s brief tranquility.  
“Problem,” he muttered, pouring a huge glass of bubbly. “The ship’s completely booked. All the suites with twin beds are taken.”
“Surely there must be someone in a standard room who would be happy to switch.”
“Perhaps,” Tobias sighed. “But then I’m back to being stuck in a room with you. No offense, buddy, I’m not sure I’d survive, and my daughter needs her dad.”
“Possibly,” Ethan deadpanned. “I could argue that she’d fare much better without your influence.”
“Very funny! They offered to bring a rollaway bed, but then we’ll fight over who gets the plush, comfy mattress and who gets to feel like they’re on a college bender.”
“So, I have to share a bed with you instead!”
Tobias raised an eyebrow. “You want the rollaway?”
Ethan’s expression gave him the answer he needed. 
“It’s a king-size bed, Ethan. We practically have our own zip codes.”
Ethan shook his head as he downed the rest of his champagne.
“Casey did this on purpose. She’s probably back in Boston laughing as she imagines our misery.”  
“It’s possible,” Tobias smirked. “My girl has a great sense of humor. We can Facetime her from bed tonight.”
Ethan shook his head as he stood up to return inside the suite. “You do as you wish, but I’ll be safe in my zip code.”
~~~~~
Hours later, the tuxedo-clad men entered the after-dinner mixer for Hopkins alumni. Tobias smirked with delight when several heads turn their way. 
“You have to admit it,” he boasted. “I’ve still got it.”
“You?” Ethan spat. “What makes you think they’re not looking at me.”
“Common sense,” he smiled, tapping his friend’s shoulder. “What do you say we go mingle.”
“With whom? I don’t see anyone I recognize yet.”  
“They’ll be here soon enough. We can get a drink while we wait.”
Nearby, an elegantly dressed woman glanced inconspicuously in their direction.
“Peggy,” she whispered to her wife. “Is that Tobias Carrick and Ethan Ramsey all chummy over there?”
Peggy adjusted her glasses to look. “You are correct, love. That’s them.”  
“I didn’t realize they were on speaking terms again. After Vincenza-gate, I would have thought one of them landing in jail for the other’s murder would have been more likely than a reconciliation.”  
“Yeah,” Peggy shrugged. “But that’s a long time ago now.”
“True, but when I ran into Tobias at that conference a few years back, he was still referring to Ethan by that pet name.”
“Which one was that?” Peggy laughed.
“Peckerhead, I believe.”
“Well,” Peggy smiled. “It looks like they resolved that.”
“Who resolved what?” A dark-haired man asked as the two women greeted him.
“Joshua! I wasn’t sure you were coming!” Leah grinned.
“What, miss this chance to network and gossip? No way!”
“Then you’re in the right place,” Peggy smiled. “We were just commenting on Carrick and Ramsey being friends again. Who would have thought it?”
“Uhm, they’re not friends.”
“Josh,” Leah said, motioning in their direction. “Look at them. It’s clear as day. And I, for one, am happy to know they buried the hatchet.”
“Then you’ll be even happier to hear this... they’re married.”
“They’re what?” The women replied in unison.
“Get out of here!” Peggy nudged Joshua’s shoulder.
“Well...” Leah stalled, “I did hear Tobias got married... that alone shocked me, but no one mentioned he married Ethan. Are you sure?”
“One hundred percent,” Joshua said, crossing his heart. “Mallory and I are in the suite next to them.”
Peggy rolled her eyes. “So they’re sharing a room... and you assume they’re married?”
“No. But the walls are thin, and we heard Ethan was going on and on about their romance package. Not to mention they were calling each other dear and sweetheart.”
“And Carrick is definitely a newlywed,” Peggy added.
“And it’s too soon for him to have something on the side. At least, I hope it is,” Leah chided. “Wow. Ethan and Tobias married. I didn’t have that on my bingo card.”
“Let’s stop ogling them and go and say hello,” Peggy insisted. “We’re going to look downright rude.”
The trio approached them, and after greetings and pleasantries were exchanged, Tobias went right into being...Tobias.
“You ladies look gorgeous as always! How is it that you’ve been aging backward,” he smiled.
“Ah, I see married life hasn’t made you any less of a flirt,” Leah tittered.
“Nah, that’s genetic. But now I’m all bark and no bite.”
“And it better stay that way,” Ethan jumped in.
“As if that’s even a question,” Tobias smiled. “You know darn well I know how good I have it.”
“I have to admit,” Peggy injected. “I was shocked that you two made up much less...” she motioned between them. “This.”
“Yeah, I don’t think most saw this coming,” Tobias agreed. “But it’s a good thing. We wasted too many years.”
“Years we’ll never get back,” Ethan agreed.
“You know, Mallory and I are in the suite next to you,” Josh informed. “Perhaps we can join you on the balcony for a few drinks tonight.”
“That works,” Tobias smiled. “Ethan and I will supply the drinks.”
“Yeah,” Ethan laughed. “We have the top-shelf stuff in our suite.”
“I know,” Josh smiled. “The romance package... we got it, too. We’ll see you later.”
~~~~~
Late that night, Ethan showered while Tobias Facetimed Casey and Sammy. As much as Tobias was enjoying himself, he missed his girls, and seeing them reminded him how much. Still, he did his best to stay positive.
“That’s right, baby girl,” he beamed at his babbling daughter. “That’s right!”
Then, a groan, loud enough for Tobias to hear through his AirPods, came from the bathroom.
“Babe,” Tobias interrupted Casey. “Wait just a second.” Removing an earbud, he walked to the bathroom door. “Ethan? Are you OK?”
“I’m fine. I just slipped, this space is just too damned tight.”
“Is it now?” Tobias chuckled at his friend taking his third shower of the day. “It wasn’t a problem this morning or during round two this afternoon.”
“Yeah, well, maybe it’s because I’m exhausted.”
“I told you three times was a bit much,” Tobias replied. “But, as long as you’re all right, I’m returning to what I was doing. So, where are we?” he said, slipping his earbud back in place. “Look at you smiling for Daddy! You are such a good girl....”
Outside the door, Mallory stopped Joshua from knocking. She looked at her husband as they heard bits and pieces of the conversation inside Ethan and Tobias’s cabin.
 “You know, honey,” Mallory started. “They sound like they’re...busy...”
“They sure do. Three times today?”
“Well,” his wife shrugged, “they are newlyweds. Let’s allow them their privacy.”
“You’re right,” he said, wrapping his arm around her. “How about we go to the Lido Deck? The buffet will be open in fifteen minutes, and we can get a good seat.”
“Sounds like a plan!”
“Heh,” Josh chuckled with a shake of his head. “Ramsey and Carrick. Who would have ever thought?”
~~~~~
The following afternoon, Ethan and Tobias were poolside when Mallory, Joshua, Leah, and Peggy approached, floppy hats on their heads and towels under their arms.
“Hey,” Leah smiled, motioning to the empty deck chairs. “Are these seats taken?”
“Only by you,” Tobias smiled. He motioned for the waiter to order drinks for all. “And tell the bartender not to skim on the rum!” He hollered before turning to his old classmates. “So, how are you enjoying the cruise?”
“It’s been great!” Peggy enthused. “You know, work is so busy, it feels like Leah and I never get to see one another back home.”
“Yeah,” Tobias laughed. “We don’t have that problem, do we, Ethan?”
“Nope,” He said, leaving his dark Ray-Bans in place. “It feels like we’re together morning, noon, and night.”
“Aww, but that’s lovely!” Mallory grinned. 
“Yeah,” Ethan chuckled. “That’s one word.”
“Hey,” Tobias tapped Joshua’s shoulder. “I thought you and Mallory were going to pass by last night.”
“Uh... we were,” Joshua started. “But we figured you could use your... privacy.”
“Honestly, I appreciate that. I was Facetiming my daughter. I knew I’d miss her, but I didn’t know how much.”
“Your daughter?” Leah gasped. “I knew you got married, but I had no idea you had a baby, too!”
“Oh yeah,” Tobias beamed, pulling out his phone to show off Sammy’s picture. “I waited long enough, so I figured, go big or go home!”
“She’s beautiful!” Peggy gushed. “The two of you must be so proud!”
“We are!” Tobias smiled. “I wish Casey could have made this trip. She would have loved meeting you.”
“Casey?” Leah asked. “Is that your nanny?”
“My nanny? No,” Tobias laughed, thumbing through his phone to show them a wedding photo. “Casey’s my wife.”
“Your wife?” Mallory asked. “But, but... aren’t you two...?”
Ethan sat up and finally removed his sunglasses. “Aren’t we what?”
“You’re not married?” Josh asked.
“Me?” Ethan spat. “And Tobias?”
“Yes,” Mallory started. “We thought...”
“US?” Ethan asked with disgust.
“Yeah,” Leah replied, looking a little miffed herself. “Clearly, we got it wrong... Josh!”
“Me and Ethan... married,” Tobias laughed. “Now, wouldn’t that be something?”
“No!” Ethan shot back. “It would not! It would not be something at all!”
“All right, Ethan,” Peggy said, sounding offended. “I understand we were wrong, but are you that insulted we assumed you were married to a man?”  
“WHAT? No! Not at all. I’m insulted because you assumed I’d pick Carrick!”
“I love you, too, Ethan.”
“And see,” Ethan said. “That’s how rumors start.”
Tobias let out a weary sigh. “You seem a bit flustered. Should we go back to the room?”
“Again... how the rumors start.”
“Look,” Tobias laughed. “As adorable of a couple as we would make. It would never happen. I’m way out of Ramsey’s league.”
“You know I was saying that to Le...” Peggy said, stopping when Ethan glared her way. “I was saying you would be an adorable couple... that’s all.”
“Good save,” her wife whispered.
“Not good enough,” Ethan groused.
~~~~~ 
Ethan sat on the balcony, appreciating the total darkness that made every star in the sky feel within his reach. He closed his eyes and took the salty air, the sound of the surf as the ship clipped through the ocean waters. He couldn’t remember the last time he was this at peace when the sliding door opened.
“Yeah, I know, baby,” Tobias chuckled. “As if he could do better.”
“Are we still on this?” Ethan moaned. 
“You think I wasn’t going to tell Casey,” Tobias smiled before wrapping up their call. 
He handed Ethan a cold beer and popped the cap off his own before falling into his chair with a smile.
“You know... this is nice.”
“It really is,” Ethan agreed. “I never thought I’d enjoy a cruise, but this is so... peaceful. I’m glad Casey convinced us to do this.”
“Oh, the cruise is great, but that wasn’t what I was referring to.”
“Oh?”
“If I had imagined a Hopkins reunion when we graduated... hell, if I had imagined one three years ago, we would be on opposite ends of the room... glaring daggers at each other.”
“I would have pretended you weren’t there,” Ethan half-smiled.
“Yeah, well... this is better.”
Ethan raised his bottle to Tobias’s. “Yeah, this is better.”
“Look at us,” Tobias beamed. “And Casey was sure one of us would end up overboard.”
“The week is still young, Tobias... the week is still young.”
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@openheartfanfics @choicesficwriterscreations
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choicesprompts · 6 months
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Flufftober 2023
As requested, some fluffy prompts! This event will run through the last day of October. If you prefer some spooky prompts, please see the Festival of Fears prompt event.
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The Rules:
Open to all choices fandoms. All forms of creative expression are accepted: Fics, artwork, edits, text fics, etc.
Prompts are provided for your convenience but are not required. If it's fluffy, it will get reposted and added to the master list at the end of the event!
To ensure you get reblogged and added to the master list, make sure to do the following:
Tag @choicesprompts
hashtag #choicespromtps and #flufftober2023
Don't forget to tell us if/which prompt you're using!
Prompts don't have to be done in order or used on any particular day. Pick and choose as you like, and submit whenever. You may combine prompts. You may have more than one submission per prompt if you like.
That's it! Go forth, create and be great!
The Prompts:
First Kiss
Rainy/Snowy Day
Meet Cute
Found Family
Confession
I want to take care of you.
Cozy Comforts
Chicken Soup
Pretend boyfriend/girlfriend for a day
Hand Holding
Campfire
Hair Brushing
Bed Sharing
Love Letters
Getting caught in a storm
Can I have this dance?
Cooking Together
Cloud/Star Gazing
Puppies/Kittens
Let me make you a cup of tea.
Picnic
First Date
Anniversary
Wedding
Birthday Surprise
Do you trust me?
I think I love you.
Hurt/Comfort
Coffee Shop
Embarrassing Secret Revealed
You don’t me and I promise I’m not a creepy stalker but…
OR.... use one of these:
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liaromancewriter · 3 months
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New Year Wishes
Premise: New Year’s Day is a special time for making wishes that come true.
Book: Open Heart (post series) Pairings: Ethan Ramsey x F!MC (Cassie Valentine) Rating/Category: Teen. Fluff. Words: 1,435
A/N: Submission for @choicesjanuary2024 Day 1 writing exercise prompt; for @choicesholidays New Year and @choicesficwriterscreations holiday event. I'm using @choicesflashfics week 66, prompt 1.
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Part 1: The Legend
The first snowflake fell, and with it, a new tradition began. Inside the mansion by the sea, Christmas decorations hung across the mantel. The star above the tree in the corner twinkled when the weak rays of a winter sun briefly shone through the window panes.
It was the first day of a new year, and the air was full of possibilities, like magic on a moonlit night. Flames crackled in the fireplace, spreading its warmth toward the family of four sitting by the hearth.
Four-year-old Cassie Valentine rubbed her sleepy eyes as she cuddled on her mother’s lap, content with the familiar scent and feel of her mom’s arms around her. When she heard a loud yawn, she squinted at her twin brother Max, who was similarly nestled against their father’s chest.
His blond hair was messy, flopping over his forehead; his face was practically hidden in their dad’s big arms. One green eye popped open as if sensing her gaze, and he smiled sleepily at her.
The twins protested when their parents removed them from their comfortable position and onto the shaggy rug in front of the fireplace. Cassie leaned into Max’s side, curling her legs beneath her, and yawned widely. She rested her face on her brother’s shoulder and closed her eyes.
She wasn’t sure why her parents had woken them up so early or carried them down to the family room. It wasn’t Christmas morning. She knew because Santa had already brought her and Max presents last week.
“Cass honey, wake up,” Daddy said gently, lifting her head and brushing his hand down her hair. “Your mom and I have a surprise for the two of you.”
The word ‘surprise’ made Max perk up and sit straight in attention.
“Do you know what today is?” Mommy asked, her eyes crinkled around the corners as she smiled.
They shook their heads, and she continued. “It’s New Year’s Day. Legend has it that if you make a wish, write it on a piece of paper and throw it into the fire, it will come true. Isn’t that right, Robert?”
“My old nanny told me it was so.” Cassie saw her father smile in a dreamy way she didn’t quite recognize. “And she was right. When I was your age, I wished for a life full of adventure. Then, one day, many years later, your mother spilled her drink on me. I haven’t been bored since.”
“Robert!” Mommy gasped in shock before throwing her head back in laughter and then leaning in to kiss him on the lips.
Cassie giggled, and Max groaned, making gagging sounds.
“Six years of adventure, my love,” Mommy said softly, resting her head on Daddy’s forehead. “Every day, I fall in love with every little thing that you do.”
Cassie watched her parents gaze into each other’s eyes and thought there must be something to this wish legend. And if Daddy was right, she was definitely wishing for a puppy.
Part 2: The Wish
Many years later, in an elegant condo overlooking Boston’s waterfront, Ethan Ramsey propped himself up on one elbow and leaned over his wife. He ran his finger down her cheek and brushed aside a wisp of hair that fell over her face.
“Time to wake up, love,” he murmured, watching as Cassie’s eyes drifted open.
The fogginess gradually disappeared, dreams faded and reality intruded.
“What time is it?” she asked, yawning.
“Almost eight,” he said, his lips tracing the slope of her shoulder.
The strap of her nightgown slid down her arm, almost baring her breast, and he peppered kisses along her exposed collarbone.
“We don’t have time for you to seduce me,” she protested, even as a moan escaped her lips when his hands eased the bodice down to expose her breasts to his heated gaze and pushed the gown lower.
“I’ll be quick,” he said, covering her body with his and nudging her thighs apart with his knee.
Ethan snagged her bottom lip between his teeth and nipped it before slanting his lips over hers. He’d just started to kiss his way down her body when he heard the sound of running feet.
Ethan barely had time to throw the covers on top of Cassie’s naked body when the bedroom door slammed open.
“It’s Wish Day! It’s Wish Day!”
Their five-year-old twin daughters, Sophie and Eloise, rushed in, singing the words excitedly at the top of their lungs.
“Daddy, you’re not wearing a shirt!” Sophie giggled.
“Girls, what have we said about knocking?” Ethan swung his legs off the bed to sit up and glared at them over his shoulder.
From the corner of his eye, he saw Cassie wriggle under the covers and then ease her back up against the headboard, the silky straps of her nightgown back in place.
“Knock first, wait for an answer and then enter,” they parroted the oft-repeated words while gazing innocently at him.
“And did you do that now?” Cassie asked, lips twisting in a half-smile as her eyes met Ethan’s exasperated expression.
“We forgot,” they said with a pout.
They launched themselves on the bed before Ethan could scold them further and started jumping up and down.
“B’sides, it’s Wish Day, Daddy,” Eloise giggled as she crashed into her sister. “It’s tra…trad…,” she stumbled over the words, “tratidition.”
“Tradition,” Ethan corrected automatically, padding into the walk-in closet.
He thought privately that his daughters were just as stubborn about celebrating traditions as their mother.
“Mommy, get up. We’ve been waiting forever to make our New Year wishes!” Sophie’s laughter mingled with her sister’s as they both bounced higher.
“Not too high, girls,” Cassie called out worriedly. “Ethan?”
Ethan returned to the bedroom, tugging a tee shirt over his head and down. He grabbed Eloise mid-bounce and then Sophie, holding each girl under his arms as if carrying a football.
They giggled when he adjusted his stance to accommodate their weight, jostling them in the process.
Cassie shook her head at their antics and shoved aside the covers to climb off the bed. She reached for the robe folded on the ottoman at the foot of the bed, and his eyes locked on the top of her breasts framed enticingly between the vee of her gown’s neckline.
She caught his stare and arched one brow. “To be continued tonight?”
After a quick glance at their daughters, now preoccupied with whispering to each other, he smirked.
“I’ll get them settled while you freshen up. Don’t take too long or…,” Ethan grinned lasciviously, scanning her from chest to crotch, “…else.”
Almost twenty minutes later, the four of them settled in front of the fireplace. Ethan wrapped one arm around Cassie’s shoulder while hers slid around his waist. The twins were nestled between them, their tiny bodies practically vibrating with excitement.
“Ready to make your New Year wish?” Cassie asked.
Eloise looked questioningly at her sister. Sophie nodded in confirmation. They both turned around and stared at their parents. Ethan noted their thoughtful expression and wondered what that was about.
“If we both make the same wish, does it come true twice?” Eloise asked.
“We want a dog,” Sophie piped in.
Ethan grinned when Cassie muttered, “Get in line” under her breath.
He knew a puppy had been on her wish list for years. In fact, if he recalled the tale correctly, it was her first wish when Robert and Olivia started the annual New Year wishes tradition.
“Why don’t you send the wish into the fireplace? You never know when the universe will grant your wish,” he added, keeping his face neutral when Cassie hissed, “Hogwash!”
“It might take years,” Eloise said, angling her head sideways as if lost in thought.
“Just like it took forever and ever for Grandpa Robbie to get his wish when he met Grandma Livvy,” Sophie added excitedly. “El, we’re getting a dog for sure!”
“And another tradition continues,” Cassie laughed as the girls babbled excitedly while scribbling their wishes on paper.
Ethan rolled his eyes in exasperation. “Times like this, they’re more Valentine than Ramsey.”
“I disagree,” Cassie snorted, laughter in her eyes. “But then I’m biased since I fell in love with a Ramsey.”
Ethan gently grasped her chin and lifted her face to gaze into her eyes. His mouth lowered and captured her lips in a tender, heart-wrenching kiss, losing himself in the magic of the moment.
Eloise and Sophie stopped writing to watch their parents kissing, shared a furtive glance and silently giggled. Forget the dog. Maybe they would get a brother instead.
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Ethan & Cassie only: @cariantha @custaroonie @youlookappropriate @zealouscanonindeer
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dutifullynuttywitch · 3 months
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Reflections on the eve of battle
Blades of Light and Shadow 2
Pairing: Mal Volari X f!mc (Autumn Nightbloom)
Rating: Teen
Word count: 744
Summary: This takes place on the eve of the Ash Empire’s invasion in Blades of Light and Shadow 2. I kept thinking of Mal’s internal conflict throughout Blades 2 and how it would come to a head before the big battle… wanted to try and do it justice
She loved him. Mal Volari still couldn’t wrap his head around it.
“You love me.”
“Yes I do, you scoundrel. Make sure to tell everyone.”
She looked up at him with a light smirk, a twinkle in her eyes, fingers lightly tracing down his face and chest. He pulled her tighter into their intimate embrace, unbelievably happy that this woman, his kit, really loved him back.
And he planned on doing just that.
“Oh, I plan to.”
He flashed her a bright smile, preening. Some of the old swagger returning.
A giddy smile lit up his face at the memory, all too quickly replaced by the now near-constant mask of worry.
Right after figuring out how to make sure she’ll survive the upcoming battle.
His chest constricted, heart rate accelerating as the familiar panic and dread took over. The guilt at having failed her already, again and again.
At not having been fast enough to keep Valax from dragging her into that portal. At not having been sufficiently resourceful or cunning to figure out how to get her back. Or able to keep their party from slowly falling apart after their repeated failures at freeing her from the shadow realm.
He had worked himself to exhaustion all those months, grasping at any leads albeit thin, going to increasing lengths – and risks – to find artefacts or spells that could bring her back.
He had poured his earnings from defeating the Shadow Court towards opening an orphanage. A dream he had shared with her just before her disappearance, on that wonderful evening where she had finally broken down the last of his defenses and gotten him to start to hope for something better, for the possibility of happiness and a life together.
He had wanted to honor her memory, and make sure these kids had a happier alternative to the harsh, violent life he had led, growing up in the Thief’s Guild.
So he kept going, like an automat, refusing to stop and feel the loss of his love, of his home, because he knew he couldn’t live in a world without her.
But really, he had needed to keep busy. He didn’t want to stop, couldn’t stop and consider the possibility that she was really gone.
That nothing he could do would bring her back.
Because those thoughts brought him to a dark and dangerous place. One he had only visited in the deepest pits of hopelessness in his reaper days, horrified at his capacity for violence and death but desperate to pay out his and his sister’s debts and free them from that terrible life.
And then suddenly she was back. His one dream come true. Smiling, beautiful as ever, bantering and alive.
Gods how he had wanted to lose himself in her embrace and forget the world around them.
His dark train of thoughts returned to the present, and the impending invasion from the Ash Empire.
But he couldn’t relax and let himself feel the joy of her return. Couldn’t let his guard down.
She was still being hunted down by Valax and the Ash Empress. He had already failed her too many times. Wouldn’t do it again.
He looked across the sprawling camp, eyes trained on his beautiful kit, striding confidently from one group of fighters to the other, boosting morale and talking strategy.
Gods he was proud of her. His beautiful warrior. His finest treasure, the only one he would ever need.
He told her he’d have her back out on the battlefield, and he meant it. He would do whatever it took to keep her safe, help her protect the Light Realm. He would lay down his life for a chance at keeping her alive.
A slow, hesitant smile etched Mal’s features. He gazed on at the woman he loved.
Amidst all the darkness and doubt swirling around in his head, that warm feeling, the seeds of hope she had planted with her patience, understanding and love, kept pulling at him.
He would die for her, but he hoped that somehow… somehow they’d make it out of this fight alive, and would have a second chance at love and a life together.
“For you, kit, I’ll do anything.”
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choicesflashfics · 1 month
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Week #73 Prompts
This week’s prompts are:
Prompt 1 — “Sometimes I can’t believe that you actually chose me.” -> “I have great taste.”
Prompt 2 — “That was way out of line.”
Prompt 3 — “What do you mean ‘maybe’? That was a yes or no question.”
Guidelines: 
You have to use at least one of the prompts, but you may use all if you’d like.
The fic can be no more than 2500 words. Word count must be present. Text fics are welcome as well. 
The prompts must be used exactly as they are. 
Whether you use one, two, or all three, the prompt(s) must be bolded. Please put in your A/N which prompt(s) you’re using. 
Use proper warnings/tags for the fics if they require any (nsfw, etc.)
Tag @choicesflashfics when you post and your fic will be reblogged. If your fic isn’t reblogged within 48 hours of posting (because we all know how tumblr tags are wonky sometimes), send a message with the link.
Post your fic by Saturday, February 24th (11:59 EST). 
Happy writing! 
*just a reminder that asks are open for those who want to submit their own prompt suggestions!*
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(If I’ve missed anyone, I’m so sorry. Please let me know if you’d like to be added to or removed from the tags. If I’m unable to activate your tag, I will try to reach out in the comments!)
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angelasscribbles · 11 days
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Savage Love Chapter 37: Gone
Series: Savage Love
Fandom: The Royal Romance
Pairings: Riley x Liam, Riley x Drake
Rating: R         
Warnings: Mature themes, violence, guns
Word Count: 987
A/N: Wow, I can't believe it's been five months since I posted an update for this! I've known since before I started writing it back in December 2021 how it's going to end. This is the downside of having so many ideas.... I can't work on all of them at once.
That said, this is a bit shorter than my regular chapters, but I just needed to see what Drake was doing while Riley was in Hidar in her quest to take down the Via Imperii and Leo was in Rivala getting the shock of his life. The next chapter will bring everyone back together again in Cordonia.
A/N2: I realize it's been a while and readers may be confused with all the OC's in this chapter, so here's a rundown. Nick is Riley's ex-fiance and also another GIA agent. Frederico Sanchez is Nick's informant. Saguaro Laurent is the head of The Gladius Company. Lorenzo is not in this chapter but is mentioned as a loan shark to whom Tariq owed money and who, on Saguaro's orders, leveraged Tariq's gambling debt to get him to abduct Riley (Tariq failed and was murdered for his failure, Lorenzo is in custody at the palace). Rico Mendez is the son of a former mafia don who wants revenge for Riley using him to take down his father's organization.
My other stuff: Master List.
Series Premise: Agent Riley Brooks is undercover on assignment in New York when she has a one-night stand with a handsome, mysterious stranger. Both of them hiding their true identities, names are not exchanged.  After one scorching night, they part ways, both returning to the duties they have pledged their lives to. Fast forward several months later and Agent Brooks is assigned a new case: investigate and infiltrate any Via Imperi influences in the small, Mediterranean country of Cordonia. Her cover? Posing as a suitor competing for the hand of the crown prince. Her way in? Civilian contractor and cyber security expert Maxwell Beaumont.
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Drake…..
Nick and I arrived at the warehouse where we were meeting his contact in the Liberation Core. The one that had gotten me a meeting with the head of the Gladius Company.
The air in the dimly lit warehouse was thick with tension as we made our way through the maze of crates toward their rendezvous point. The echo of our footsteps ricocheted off the walls, adding to the sense of foreboding that permeated the atmosphere.
Nick's informant, a wiry man named Frederico Sanchez, stood waiting nervously near the entrance. His eyes darted back and forth, scanning for any signs of danger. As we approached, Sanchez straightened up and extended a shaky hand.
"Drake," Sanchez said, his voice barely above a whisper. "Nice to finally meet you. Nick here has told me a lot about you."
I nodded curtly, assessing Sanchez's demeanor. I could see the fear etched into the man's face, evidence of the high stakes involved in the mission. Time was of the essence; we needed to infiltrate The Gladius Company as quickly as possible.
"Likewise," I replied as I returned the man’s handshake. “Now let’s go over the plan before we meet with your guy.”
Being on the same page was crucial. If any of these guys got a whiff that this was a setup, we were both dead. Nick would stay in the surveillance van, ready as backup if necessary. He couldn’t be seen by Saguaro or any of the men he’d brought with him from New York. They’d recognize the GIA agent that had brought down their last organization in an instant.
We poured over the plan twenty times, looking for inconsistencies, committing our cover story to memory, and working out the kinks. When it was time to go, I waved goodbye to Nick and got in a nondescript sedan with Sanchez. A quick check-in with headquarters told me that they had picked up Lorenzo’s contact, but he wasn’t talking.
With any luck, we wouldn’t need him to. I was hoping to set eyes on Rico when I met with Saguaro. If he was there, I was giving the order to breach. I knew what Nick’s objective was, but I didn’t give two shits about arresting Saguaro Laurent. It was Rico I was after. The man that had sent a kidnapper, albeit a bad one, after the woman I love.
The American justice system had failed and released a known mobster, allowing him to slip through their security net. But he wasn’t in America anymore. He was on my turf, and I had a literal license to kill.
Rico Mendez would spend the rest of his life in a Cordonian prison, or he would die, and it didn’t matter much to me which one it was. All I cared about was getting him off the streets and keeping Riley safe.
We arrived at the rendezvous spot, but nothing went according to plan.
I found myself in another damn warehouse. This one was on the waterfront and, if our intel was correct, not far from the empty factory that was serving as headquarters for The Gladius Company.
We arrived first and waited. Saguaro and his men were late, which only served to ramp up the already rapidly percolating anxiety in the man at my side.
Sanchez was too damn twitchy. Saguaro picked up on it instantly. He barely glanced at me before fixing Sanchez with a piercing stare. “What’s the problem, Freddy?”
“What?” Sanchez tried to laugh it off. “Nothing. What do you mean?”
Saguaro’s flinty eyes squinted at him, then flicked to me as his hand went to his waist. I had my gun in my hand before he could pull his. “Don’t do it! I really don’t want to shoot anyone today, but I will if I have to. What’s the problem?”
Saguaro moved his hand away from his piece and put his arms in the air. A flash of metal in my periphery caught my attention. “Get down!” I hit the ground just a shot rang out. Fuck! Fuck! Fuck! This wasn’t how it was supposed to go down.
Men scattered everywhere. We were outnumbered, but not for long. I could hear Nick in my earpiece giving the order to breach. Sanchez was hit. I drug him with me out of the line of fire, ducking behind a stack of metal barrels as the rat-a-tat-tat of machine gun fire spattered all around us.
“Hey, Laurent!” I craned my neck to peek around the barricade.
The only answer I got was more gunfire. I retreated back behind the stack of barrels for safety as my team poured into the building.
Now they were outnumbered, and the warehouse was surrounded. Less than fifteen minutes later, Saguaro and his men were cuffed and being loaded into the back of several guard-issue SUVs.
“Johnson, hold up!” I jogged quickly across the asphalt to intercept the lieutenant escorting the head of Gladius Company to one of the waiting vehicles. I grabbed him by his shirt and shoved him roughly up against the car. “Where’s Mendez? Was he with you?”
“Fuck you!” He lurched forward in an attempt to headbutt me, but this wasn’t my first rodeo. I snapped my head sideways, causing him to stumble forward.
I grabbed his shoulders to steady him, then brought my knee up hard into his gut. “I look forward to interrogating you, asshole.”
I beelined for the tactical van. Bursting into the mobile command center, I demanded, “Did we get Mendez?”
“Sorry, man, no,” Nick shook his head. “No sign of him. But the good news is, we got Saguaro and his second in command. There’s a second team sweeping their headquarters now. We successfully took The Gladius Company down!”
He was far too jubilant for what I considered a botched mission. I slammed out of the van with a huff. Goddamn it!
Rico was in the wind.
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