#cordonia city
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Murder at Vista Heights Chapter 3
Series: Law’s End
Episode 1: Murder at Vista Heights
Fandom: The Royal Romance (loosely, there’s not much canon in here).
Pairings: None yet
Word Count: 2,521
Rating: MA
Warnings for series: adult themes, any given chapter may contain murder, violence, language, drinking, drug use, etc.
My other stuff can be found on my main blog @angelasscribbles here is the Master List.
“Well?” The chief of homicide demanded a glower on his face.
“I…this has to be some kind of mistake…” Liam’s face was ashen as he pulled the sketch from Bertrand’s hands.
Max gripped Riley gently but firmly by the shoulder and pulled her back and to the side, quietly shifting them out of anyone’s direct line of sight.
Riley allowed herself to be moved. If no one noticed her, they would speak more freely, and she might learn something.
“Are you questioning Ms. Nevrakis’s ability to render an accurate image from the witness’s verbal account?”
“What? No, of course not!” his eyes jumped to Lilith and the woman he had questioned earlier. Lilith’s sketches had helped catch plenty of perpetrators. She was very good at what she did. Still.
He stalked across the room and thrust the sketch under the older woman’s nose, “Mrs. Haltom, this is the man you saw arguing with the victim?”
Riley strained to hear, holding her breath as she leaned in their direction.
“That’s the man I saw leaving his apartment after hearing the argument.”
“Did he say anything as he was leaving? Anything you can positively attribute to him?”
“Yes, he said ‘If you don’t back off, I’ll personally fucking kill you!’”
“I…thank you,” Liam’s shoulders slumped in defeat, “You can go now.”
“Max!” Riley hissed as she drug Max toward the door the woman was headed for, “We have to follow her and see if she’ll tell us-“
“You’re not going anywhere!” Liam’s voice thundered out, freezing her in place, “Stay right there! I’m going to need a word with you!”
“Fuck!” Riley muttered as she watched Liam and Bertrand disappear into the chief’s office, “She’s getting away!”
“I’ll go!” Max offered, hesitating as he waited for her response.
“Yes!” Riley made a shooing motion with her hands, “Go! Get her full name and phone number so I can question her later!”
“On it!” Max scrambled out the door and down the hall after the witness.
Riley sauntered closer to Liam’s desk, her eyes scanning the top of it for any files or notes that might be left lying around in plain sight. Her eyes flicked over to the glass window of Bertrand’s office.
She’d give a lot to be a fly on the wall in there right now.
Her gaze fell back on the paperwork scattering Liam’s desk. There was a manilla file folder labeled, “Hayes”. She glanced quickly around the room. No one was paying any attention to her.
Her fingers tugged the folder out from under the two others and slid it to the edge of the desk. Flipping it open, her eyes scanned the first page quickly. Before she could turn to the next page, she was startled by a voice from behind her, “Can I help you with something?”
Shit!
She jumped guilty and spun around to find an unfamiliar man standing behind her. He had shaggy shoulder-length brown hair, hazel green eyes, and a deadly serious expression on his face. Her eyes dipped to take in the badge clipped on his belt and the gun holstered on his hip.
“I was waiting for Liam- I mean detective Rys, he told me to wait here.” She hoped he couldn’t hear her heart thundering guiltily in her chest.
The detective’s gaze stayed stern as he asked, “Did he tell you to go through his confidential police files?”
“Ah…n-no…I wasn’t…I mean, I didn’t mean to, I just…I was looking for a pen and some paper so I could jot down a few notes.”
“Right.” His eyes narrowed.
“It’s okay, Flynn, Liam did tell her to wait here.” Lilith came to her rescue, handing her a pen and notepad, “Here you go. Why don’t you have a seat right over there.” She pointed to a couch near the wall.
“Thank you,” Riley gave Lilith a grateful smile and slunk away quickly before she got herself arrested.
The hardened homicide detective’s face softened as he turned his attention to the redhead, “I wasn’t trying to be an ass, but she was digging through confidential files!”
“I’m sure she didn’t realize it.”
Flynn threw a dark glance at Riley as he harrumphed before remembering the two cups of coffee in his hands. He thrust one toward Lilith, “Here. I…uh, thought you might like some coffee.”
“Oh! I…”
“Cream with two sugars, right?”
“That’s right! How’d you know?”
Flynn shrugged as he moved to the desk next to Liam’s and busied himself scooting folders around randomly. “That’s how you always take it. I’m a detective. I notice things.”
“Oh, well, thank you.” Lilith dropped her eyes to the cup in her hand as her cheeks flushed.
Riley clocked the interaction with interest and filed it away for future reference. Information was power and you never knew what secrets might come in handy down the road.
Liam shook his head as he faced off with his superior officer, “No. No! There’s no way Leo did this!”
“Liam….I know he’s your brother, but-“
“Look, sir. I know that his background is problematic but-“
“Problematic?” Bertrand snorted, “That’s the understatement of the year!”
“Like I said, I’m aware of his issues but-“
“I just don’t think you can be objective about this case. I’m transferring it to-“
“Sir, with all due respect, I’ve already investigated the scene, deposed the witnesses, coordinated with-“
“Yes, but if your brother is the perpetrator-“
“He’s not!”
“Even if he’s not, he’s at least a suspect and I need someone on this case that will give full and equal consideration to all leads!”
“Okay. How about this? You leave me on the case until and unless Leo becomes the prime suspect! Please, sir! Give me a chance to exonerate him!”
Bertrand pinched his bottom lip between his thumb and forefinger as he regarded the earnest detective sitting across from him. He knew that Liam struggled against the same obstacles that he himself struggled against. Namely, a family legacy of corruption.
Liam was assigned to the seventh precinct because Bertrand had been the only chief willing to take a chance on him. Liam was the son of Constantine Rys, the not-quite-disgraced former Sheriff of Lantano County, and younger brother of Leo Rys, a fully disgraced former vice detective in the CCPD.
Bertrand had seen himself in the younger man when he’d agreed to hire him. In contrast to his father and brother, Liam was by the book, conscientious and honorable. Leo though… he lived on the other side of the law now and gave two shits less who knew it.
“Liam,” Bertrand said gently, “I don’t think you see your brother clearly-“
“I do, sir. You don’t know him the way I do!”
“Maybe not, but we both know what he’s capable of, Detective.”
Liam shook his head vehemently, “That was different! He wouldn’t just-“
“And what if he did?” Bertrand snapped, “What if all the evidence points to him?”
Liam glared at his boss for a minute before wilting, “Then I’ll arrest himself, sir. No one is above the law.”
“Right now, everything points to him. We have an eyewitness that puts him at the scene, and multiple witnesses that overheard the very loud, very heated argument just hours before the murder!”
“I have another suspect!” Liam protested, “I was just about to interview the informant!”
Bertrand nodded his head, “Tell you what. I’ll leave you on the case for now, but O’Malley takes the lead. You’ll assist him and I expect hourly updates! Is that understood?”
“Yes! Thank you, sir!”
“And Liam…if it turns out Leo did this, you’ll have to step away.”
“Yes, sir. I understand.”
Max slid himself onto the black faux leather couch next to Riley.
“Did you get the information?” She whispered.
“Oh yeah,” his grin lit up his whole face, “Her name, her number, her life story, the fact that she has a granddaughter my age who’s single and a dinner date for six o’clock tonight!”
“Six o’clock?”
“She’s old, Riley.”
“Fine. Six it is. I’m impressed, Max! How’d you get her to agree to dinner?”
He shifted uncomfortably, “I agreed to meet her granddaughter. She’s coming to dinner too.”
Riley clapped both hands over her mouth as she tried to repress the giggle that threatened to bubble out of her.
“Yeah, yeah, yuck it up. The shit I do for you…”
“Ah, Max, you love this as much as I do! And who knows? Maybe she’ll be a hottie and you’ll hit it off!”
His shoulders slumped as his eyes tracked across her face, “That’s not very likely.”
“Why not?”
Before he could answer, the door to Bertrand’s office opened and Liam stepped out.
“O’Malley!” Bertrand barked.
Flynn pulled himself away from Lilith and jogged across the room as Liam made his way back to his desk and motioned for Riley and Max to take the chairs across from him.
Liam drew in a deep breath to steady himself before lifting his eyes to Riley, “You said you have a suspect with motive. Who?”
“William Sloan.”
Liam blinked slowly, “William Sloan? The CEO of Sloan Enterprises?”
“That’s the one!” Riley smiled brightly at him.
“What’s the motive?”
Riley glanced around the office then leaned over the desk, “His wife, Katie Sloan might have been sleeping with the victim!”
“Might have been? Based on what evidence?”
“Well, he was concerned enough to hire a private detective to have her followed and she was followed right to a meeting with the murder victim.”
Liam sat up in interest, “When was this meeting? Where did it take place? Who was the private detective?”
“Oh…um…” she slid her eyes sidewise to Max.
Max straighten in his chair as he counted backward in his head, “Five nights ago, at the bar in the lobby of the Savoy Hotel.”
Liam’s gaze swung from Riley to Max in surprise, “Now I know you’re not a private investigator, are you?”
“No, officer, I’m a photographer.”
“So how do you know this and who-“
Riley placed a hand on Max’s chest to forestall any further comments from him, “Max just happened to see them there and he’s reporting it to you, as a good citizen.”
“Uh huh,” Liam leaned back in his chair as he returned his attention to Riley, “And how do you know about William Sloan hiring a PI?”
“I can’t reveal my sources,” She returned his gaze levelly.
“Riley, I’m going to need a little more to go on than your word.”
“Well, I would imagine you can pull security footage from the bar on the night in question.”
“We can and we will. It would be really helpful if you would just tell me the name of this PI.”
With a coy grin, she placed her elbow on his desk and leaned her chin in her hand, “And what do I get out of that deal?”
His mouth went dry as he properly identified the teasing lilt in her tone and the flirty flutter of her eyelashes. This woman was infuriating. She had no right to be so frustrating and alluring at the same damn time. She did things to him that he didn’t like to admit. But she was a reporter and had already proven that he couldn’t trust her. He hated that he knew exactly what it sounded like when she came and that he desperately wanted to hear it again.
Pushing his sudden arousal to the side, he shook his head, “Helping solve a murder? Isn’t that enough?”
“If I go around throwing my sources under the bus, they’ll stop telling me things.”
“Fine,” Liam blew out a frustrated sigh, “Is there anything you can tell me? Do you know the nature of Katie and Trent’s relationship? Was she cheating on her husband with him?”
“I don’t know if she was sleeping with him or not, but Trent and Katie used to be engaged!”
“Did they?”
“Yes, you can look that up. It’s a matter of public record.”
“Oh, I will,” he pushed away from his desk, walked around it, and motioned toward the exit, “Now, unless you have anything else useful to tell me-“
Riley and Max stood, but while Max headed for the exit, Riley turned back to Liam, laying a hand on his arm she lowered her voice, “I hope this is enough to take the suspicion off your brother.”
His face paled, “You heard all that?”
“Enough,” she shrugged, “For what it’s worth, if you say he didn’t do it, that’s good enough for me. I believe you.”
He stared at her hand on his arm for a long moment before lifting his eyes to her. He found nothing but sincerity there as he whispered, “Thanks.”
“Anytime,” she smiled as she dropped her hand away from his arm and turned to go.
“Riley, wait!” He reached for her and spun her back toward him, “Please…don’t print my brother’s name.”
“Liam….I have a duty as an investigative journalist-“
“Please!”
She hesitated. The vulnerability in his eyes and the pleading in his tone conspired to weaken her resolve. “Fine. I won’t print his name for now but once you narrow down a suspect, you tell me first!”
“Riley, you know I can’t-“
She placed her palm flat on his chest, “I’m not asking you to give me confidential information. All I’m asking is that once the information is cleared for release to the press, you slip it to me first!” Because fuck that smug bastard Neville. This was her story and she intended to scoop him on every detail. “Deal?”
Liam’s jaw clenched as he considered her offer. “As long as the information has been cleared through official channels, then fine, I’ll call you before I send it to public relations.”
She gave him that smile again. The one that made him feel like he could climb a mountain for her if she wanted him to. She leaned forward and went up on her tiptoes to place a soft kiss on his cheek, “I think this is going to be a very mutually beneficial arrangement, Detective.”
He watched her walk toward the exit, and Max, who was waiting with his hands shoved in his pockets, giving Liam an appraising look.
Max placed his hand on the small of her back as they exited, shooting a glance back at Liam as he did so.
Interesting. Liam was suddenly curious about the nature of her relationship with her photographer. But there was no time to worry about it now. Right now, he had much bigger problems.
Liam’s head was spinning with the information he had just obtained. Far from exonerating his brother, this new piece of evidence could bury him further. Katie Sloan nee Vanderhilt wasn’t just Trenton Haye’s ex-fiancée, she was also his brother’s ex-girlfriend. If Katie Sloan was rekindling old flames, could she have fallen back into Leo’s bed? Pitted one lover against another?
With a sigh of trepidation, he pulled his phone out and dialed, “Leo, it’s Liam. I’m going to need you to come down to the station and answer some questions.”
#trr au#trr au fanfic#writeblr#crime drama#angelasscribbles#Law's End#laws end#cordonia city#maxwell beaumont#liam rys#drake walker#riley brooks#trr fandom#trr fanfic#the royal romance#no canon#choices fic writers creations#cfwc fics of the week
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Turning the Page
A Step Back in Time, chapter 11
Choices, The Royal Romance, AU
Series Premise: As Riley Brooks journeys through life as a single parent in New York City, an epiphany strikes as she contemplates the future for herself and her two-year-old son.
Turning the Page Series Masterlist
Main Pairing: Liam Rys x F!OC Riley Brooks
All characters belong to Pixelberry Studios, except William Brooks (Rys) and Matteo Magro, who belongs to this series.
Category: On-going series, contains angst/fluff/depression. Cross-over fic with Choices, Perfect Match.
Rating: M🔞 - Warnings - Series will contain crude language, weapons, NSFW material – not Beta’d - please excuse all errors.
Words: 3268
A Step Back in Time, Chapter 11
Chapter Summary: Liam, Riley and William arrive for a weeklong retreat in Lythikos. Olivia takes Riley ‘under her wing’ to mentor and to offer advice for her return to court. Olivia was determined to get her friend into the right frame of mind and to ultimately get the sparkle back in her eyes.
Music Inspiration: What Was I Made for? Billie Eilish ; Lose Control, Teddy Swims
A/N1: In this alternate universe, after King Constantine orchestrates two individual scandals to humiliate and entrap Riley Brooks and Olivia Nevrakis in shame, Madeleine Amaranth secures her position as the Queen of Cordonia. Riley, as the King’s mistress and Olivia, in self-imposed exile. Tariq is never found.
A/N2: Damien Nazario has been assigned as William’s personal bodyguard. (Series cross-over with ‘Perfect Match’)
‘Cause I, ‘cause I
I don’t know how to feel
But I wanna try
I don’t know how to feel
But someday I might
Someday I might
Think I forgot how to be happy
Something I’m not, but something I can be
Something I wait for
Something I’m made for
Something I’m made for’
Cordonian Royal Palace, Capital
If you told Riley Brooks that she would be living in Cordonia, in the Royal palace, with the King of Cordonia just last summer ... she would not believe you. She would tell you that ‘once upon a time’, she fell in love with that King and competed for his hand in marriage in his social season. By reason of the cruelty of fate, and the callousness of the Royal court, that dream would be ripped away from her by a world that was foreign to her. Where outsiders, or commoners, were frowned upon and/or deemed lesser than the noble class. She would be relegated to be the other woman, the mistress to that immensely powerful man whose duty to his country dictated that he must marry a ‘chosen’ woman, even though he did not love her.
...and she had to watch that man she loved, marry another.
...because she loved him, she remained. Confiding to him, ‘I’ve made my decision ... I want to be with you. I don’t care what it looks like.’
...and it broke her.
In the Royal east wing, inside William’s bedroom, Riley meticulously packed his clothing into a large suitcase. Carefully selecting each item with love and care for their winter vacation in the Alps of Lythikos, she folded his small woolen sweaters with matching pants and jeans. Soft mittens and a woolen cap were nestled next to his favorite plushie, Scooby; ready to go with him on his snowy adventures.
"Li Li, sweetheart, come here please," Riley called out, her voice echoing through the spacious room. William bounded towards her; his eyes wide as he watched his mother pack his belongings.
"We go away, Mama?" William asked, his voice filled with wonder.
"Yes, my sweet boy," Riley replied with a smile, scooping him up into her arms and placing him down on his bed. "We're going to the mountains with your father to visit a good friend of ours. It's going to be so much fun."
William's eyes sparkled with delight at the mention of his father. In the five short months since he met his father for the first time, the bond between father and son had grown stronger exponentially. William adored Liam, who always had time for his son's playful antics in New York and now, here in Cordonia, as well. Despite his Royal duties, Liam made the point to spend as much time with William as possible. Riley was not surprised. Liam often spoke about what kind of father he wanted himself to be. The exact opposite of his own father. She could tell that Liam was trying his best to make up for all the time they had lost. And she could not be happier.
Riley continued to pack, tucking away William's favorite books and toys to keep him entertained during their trip in Lythikos. She had already arranged for snacks with the kitchens, ensuring they would have everything they needed for the long drive to the northern chateau.
Riley looked up, catching Liam's gaze.
Liam stood and silently watched, leaning against the doorframe with his arms folded. A gentle smile played on his lips as he watched Riley packing their son's belongings for their trip, while William happily tried to help his mother.
"Come, my King," Riley softly spoke and smiled with a playful glint in her eyes. "Help me double-check if we have everything for our little adventurer."
Liam pushed himself away from the doorframe and strolled over to Riley; he crouched down beside William, who was wide-eyed with anticipation.
“Daddy, look.” William pointed to the large suitcase, smiling happily at his father.
"Hello, my little prince," Liam greeted, ruffling William's hair. "Are you ready for an adventure?"
William giggled and nodded his head vigorously, his eyes reflecting the admiration and adoration he held for his father. Liam chuckled, “I see you have lots of toys packed.”
William climbed over to the suitcase and plucked his favorite plush to show his father.
“Ah, I see you packed your little dog. Is he your special friend?”
“Yes, Daddy. I love puppies.” William grinned, squeezing his toy.
“You do? That is good to know,” Liam winked at Riley as William returned his toy to be packed.
“I will meet you two in an hour. All right, love?” Liam asked Riley.
“Okay, Daddy,” William answered as Liam and Riley chuckled together at his response.
As Liam left to go to his study, Damien entered, bowing to Liam, “Your Majesty”.
Liam smiled and nodded 'hello' in response as he walked towards his assistant waiting in the hall followed by his security detail.
Nevrakis Chateau, Lythikos, Cordonia
Driving through the majestic mountains, Riley stared at the vista overlooking the Nevrakis chateau. Memories flooded her mind as they passed the frozen lake below. The lake where she, along with the other suitors skated on, with Liam during his social season years ago.
Riley shivered. Was it from seeing the beautiful winter landscape or from those memories of past competitions for the man she loved? Riley’s thoughts were interrupted by the happy sound of her son’s voice.
William giggled; totally enthralled by Liam’s storytelling of his past adventures in the snow. The sight of father and son was precious to Riley, as she softly smiled at the two of them. William was sitting on Liam’s lap as he pointed to the large chateau coming into view ahead.
The escalade stopped at the grand entrance of the Nevrakis chateau as members of the royal guard went into formation and opened the vehicle doors.
As they made their way toward the entrance, a flurry of snowflakes fell from the sky, adding a layer of white powder to the ground.
"Wow, this is beautiful.” Riley raised her arms to the sky. “I remember my first visit here during your social season.”
"It is. If I remember correctly, it was just as cold." Liam quipped adjusting William’s scarf.
Members of Olivia’s waitstaff greeted the party as they entered the lavish and grand estate. Standing at the base of the grand staircase, Olivia grinned as William squealed at the pair of Alaskan malamutes sitting inside the foyer.
“King Liam, Lady Riley and Prince William ... welcome to my quaint northern lodge. I am delighted to host the three of you.”
Liam approached Olivia and kissed her cheek, then gestured to Riley and William to join them.
"Olivia, it's been far too long since I last visited. The grounds are magnificent.”
"Indeed, thank you, Liam.” Olivia beamed with pride.
"Thank you for hosting us. Your hospitality is greatly appreciated.” Riley added.
"Anything for my dear friends."
Olivia's attention was drawn to William, who was petting the dogs and giggling.
"Well, hello again, prince William." Olivia walked over and knelt beside and offered treats to her two canine companions.
William looked up at her and smiled.
"Hewwo."
"He's even cuter than I remember," Olivia grinned. “This one,” she motioned to the brown tipped dog, is ‘Mischa’. And this big guy is ‘Zeus’, "she cooed.
"Now, Riley." Olivia stood and walked forward slowly, looping her arm through Riley's arm and leading her inside. "We have lots to catch up on. Liam, make yourself at home. Your Royal suite is ready for you. Gustav will be your personal attendant for your stay."
"Thank you, Liv. That is much appreciated."
"You are quite welcome. Now, Riley, let us get started on our girl time.” Liam winked at Riley, his shoulders shaking as he chuckled at Riley’s faux scared expression.
"Okay, sounds good." Riley shook her head grinning as she walked by Liam.
Olivia and Riley climbed the grand staircase and disappeared around a corner while William sat on the floor playing with the dogs.
"William, let's get you changed and settled." Liam extended his hand down for his son to take.
"Okay, Daddy."
“Bye bye puppies.” William exuberantly spoke to the large dogs.
***
Riley and Olivia sat on a plush sofa in front of a large window overlooking the mountains. The sun was beginning to set, casting a golden glow over the snowy landscape.
"It's so beautiful here." Riley marveled at the picturesque view.
"I'm glad you like it.” Olivia proudly acknowledged as she handed a large glass filled with chardonnay to Riley.
Olivia sat back and watched Riley; her expression turning serious.
"Riley, I know that things have been difficult for you since you've come back, but you have to remember, you're a force of nature. You are stronger than you think.” Olivia was continuing the conversation of their last visit at the palace.
Riley looked down at her hands, which held onto the wine glass with a death grip. She knew the invitation to spend the week in Olivia's duchy was not just a holiday for her, Liam and William. Her once adversarial friend, and now, her good friend, wanted to assist her with reuniting with Liam.
"I can see the pain and sadness in your eyes." Olivia continued.
"Oh... "
"How is it really going? Riley, how is everything between you and Liam?"
Riley sighed and set her wine glass on the table.
"I'm...I'm not sure."
"Do you still love him?"
"Yes, of course. I have never stopped loving him.”
"Do you think he loves you?"
"Yes.” There was a small smile followed by biting her top lip.
"Then what's the problem?"
"I'm not sure."
Olivia shook her head and sighed.
"You have to trust him, Riley. He loves you. And I can see how happy William makes him.”
"I know that.”
"But there's something else, isn't there?" Olivia eyed her friend for clues.
"It's just that... we've spent so much time apart. And now that we are back together, things feel different.”
"I think I understand. That is quite normal, all things considered."
"And I'm worried that he'll eventually resent me for leaving him while I was pregnant with William."
"He could never resent you, Riley. You are the mother of his child. It'# not in his DNA.”
“I keep thinking that that there will be another scandal around the corner. That something or someone will tear us apart.”
"What happened to that confident and free spirited American girl? The one who turned the court on its' head. Where did she go?"
"I know what you are asking. I feel scared; waiting for the other shoe to drop.”
"Scared of what? And why?"
"That he won't forgive me."
"Riley, listen to me. That is your guilt talking.”
Olivia reached over and grabbed Riley's hands, looking her in the eye.
"Liam loves you. He will always love you. You and William are his world. And I know that he wants nothing more than to make you happy.”
"But..."
"But, nothing. There is no 'but'.”
"Okay." Riley was not convinced. "But, Madeleine ..."
"Is out of the picture; where Liam is concerned. You have the power of position now, make Madeleine feel it."
Riley looked at her friend and took a staggered breath.
"Most importantly, you hold the King’s heart...show the world, show Cordonia, show Madeleine what that means...you will bring her to her knees." Olivia sneered.
"This is why I wanted you to come for a visit. To remind you of who you are and what you are capable of.”
“Olivia ...” Riley sighed, shaking her head, ‘no’.
"Now. Come with me."
Olivia stood and motioned for Riley to follow.
Olivia took her down to an armory in the bowels of the chateau.
"Here we are." Olivia turned and motioned to a wall of weapons.
"What are we doing down here?" Riley asked, eyeing the collection of weapons displayed on the wall.
"We're going to do some training.”
"Training? For what?" Riley questioned, perplexed.
"For the press."
"Why do I need training for the press? With weapons?"
"Because they're vultures. They will try to get a rise out of you. They will ask rude and invasive questions. They will try to trip you up.”
"But why do you think I need training? I know you haven’t forgotten that I was subjected to them during Liam’s social season."
"Because they're relentless idiots.” Olivia sneered.
"Okay, but ...”
“Now that you are back in Cordonia, the mother of the crown prince, no less ...they want to find out your intentions with their king.”
Riley took a deep breath, closing her eyes.
"Don't worry. I'm going to teach you how to handle them.” Olivia confidently proclaimed with a smirk.
"Thank you, Olivia.” Riley sighed as she eyed the collection of pointy weaponry again.
"Of course. Now, let us get started.”
Riley was grateful for Olivia's help and advice. She knew that she was right about the press, having dealt with them through the engagement tour, after the scandal was brought to light.
Riley didn't have to know that. At least, not yet.
And she knew that she needed to be prepared. Riley understood the extent to which the press would dig and manipulate information to get a juicy soundbite. But she was not aware that Madeleine would have her own agenda to discredit and sabotage her at every chance she got, all the way from Morocco. However, Olivia was well aware of Madeleine’s spite and her bitterness over losing the crown.
"First off. I want you to choose a weapon." Olivia pointed to her collection of weaponry mounted on the wall.
"A weapon?" Riley’s eyes were wide looking at the selection before her.
"Yes. You cannot fight the press with words alone.”
"Um...okay." Riley answered sceptically.
Riley looked at each weapon closely. There were swords, halberds, axes and daggers, among others.
She picked up a sword.
"Hmm...a sword? Interesting choice."
"It's light and I can move fast.”
"Good. Particularly good.” Olivia nodded approvingly. “That would be a weapon that Liam would choose.”
“Really?” Riley admonished.
"Now, we'll practice some moves.”
"Moves?"
"Yes. Maneuvers. Stances. Blocking and parrying.”
"Wow. This is serious.”
"Indeed. I'll start slow, but don't let your guard down.”
"I won't.” Riley responded warily.
"Good. Now, attack me."
"What?" Riley looked aghast.
"Attack me."
"Oh, um ... okay."
Riley raised the sword and ran at Olivia, who easily dodged the blow.
"Is that the best you've got?"
"No.”
Riley lunged at her again, and again, Olivia sidestepped each attack.
"You're leaving yourself open.” Olivia challenged.
"I am?"
"Yes. If this was a real fight, I would have cut you down by now." Olivia chirped.
"Oh.” Riley let out a large breath, wondering to herself how this lesson was going to end.
"Here. Let me show you."
Olivia demonstrated a series of moves, her sword flashing and swooshing in the air.
"Now, you try.”
Riley imitated the movements, her sword swishing through the air.
"Better.” Olivia critiqued.
"Thanks." Riley answered questionably.
"Again.” Olivia commanded with Riley going on the defensive.
They continued to spar, their swords clashing together. Riley was impressed with Olivia's skills and ability to read her opponent and react accordingly.
As they continued to fight, Riley became more comfortable with the sword, her moves becoming more fluid and graceful. Liam slipped into the back of the room, quietly watching the sparring.
"Excellent.” Olivia praised.
"Thanks.” Riley smiled at the compliment, picking up a bottle of water.
"Now we need a target." Olivia led her to a stuffed, practice dummy.
Riley chuckled as she watched her friend attach a large face photo of Madeleine onto the head with a dagger.
"Here, let me help you." Olivia handed her an assortment of knives, before she expertly threw her dagger.
Riley's first few throws landed wide, but she quickly found her mark, sinking several blades into the center of the picture.
"Nicely done.”
"Thanks."
"Feel better?" Olivia snickered as Riley laughed.
“Yes! Yes, actually I do. But I don't understand. How is this going to help me?”
"When the press asks you questions, you need to stay calm and confident. If they try to rattle you, throw them off balance. Focus on your target.” Olivia pointed to the picture.
"Let's practice."
"All right."
"Imagine I'm a member of the press. And I ask you, 'Lady Riley, where have you been all these years?'"
Riley cleared her throat and straightened her posture.
"I've been raising my son in New York. It's where he was born and raised.”
"Why did you leave Cordonia?"
"I left to protect my child. And because I knew that King Liam had an obligation to the Queen.”
"What are your intentions now that you've returned?”
"I'm here to support my son and to be a part of his life.”
"Do you still love the King?”
"Yes, of course."
“No! STOP!!!”
Olivia moved assertively towards Riley. "This is where you say, 'that's all the questions for today’ and then you walk away from the microphones. Show confidence. Show determination. Show stoicism. Control the narrative.”
Riley raised her eyebrow. "How did you get so good at this, Olivia?"
Olivia shrugged, her shoulders rising slightly. "I'm the duchess of Lythikos. People talk. And sometimes they don't realize I'm listening."
Riley nodded, a new respect for Olivia blossoming in her heart with a renewed sense of determination in her step.
Feeling his arms, Riley giggled and leaned back against him with a content smile.
Liam sauntered up to Riley from behind, wrapping his arms around Riley’s waist.
Riley turned around to look at Liam, her eyes filled with love.
“The Royal guard will then lead you away from the gathering,” Liam interjected. “You will never be left without protection.”
"Thank you, Liam.” Riley tearfully smiled.
"I want you to know that while I am alive, you will always have a home in Cordonia. And I will never let anyone threaten that ... or you ... ever again.”
Riley felt a warm feeling in her chest and a sense of calm.
Maybe everything was going to be all right, after all. As long as she had Liam and William, she knew she could face anything.
"Liam, I love you."
"I love you, too, Riley."
Liam pressed his lips to hers, and Riley melted into his embrace. They kissed for a long moment, savoring the feel of each other's bodies.
"Come, let's go get some sleep. We have a busy day ahead of us tomorrow."
"I'm ready.*
"Pleasant dreams you two. Good night."
"Olivia, thank you for your expertise. It is much appreciated.
"Your welcome, Liam. It's my pleasure."
Good night." Riley called out.
Riley followed Liam out of the room, her hand firmly grasped in his.
And for the first time since she had come back to Cordonia, she truly felt like she was home.
"Thank you, Olivia," she whispered as she lay in Liam's arms, his steady heartbeat lulling her to sleep.
Thanks for reading; please let me know if you would like to be added or removed from this series.
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Submissions:@choicesficwriterscreations
#tessa liam writes#the royal romance#liam rys#trr#riley brooks#trr fanfic#choices fic writers creations#king liam#king liam rys#choices liam x oc#turning the page
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…Sometimes Not (Part 10)
Love is Ruthless
This is a submission for @choicesflashfics, using prompt #3, “Well … that was unexpected.”
Title inspo: Foolish - Forest Blakk
A/N: This is an au mini series to my Always You story. Not beta’d. Please excuse any errors.
Book/Pairing: TRR; Liam x OC (Reyna)
Rating: T • Warnings: None but some mild language.
Word count: 2500
Catch up here
Pushing open her apartment door, Reyna stepped inside with Liam following behind her. She slung her bag over the back of one of the stools at the counter before heading to the living area and flopping onto the sofa.
“Tired?” Liam chuckled as he sat next to her.
“No,” Reyna smiled. “Just need to sit for a minute. We did a lot of walking today.” After walking around Battery Park earlier, the pair headed to Coney Island. “Are you hungry?”
Liam looked at her, mirroring her grin as they tried to read each other’s thoughts. “Pizza,” they said in unison. “Jinx.”
Reyna pulled her phone out of the pocket of her sweatshirt and brought up the website of the nearest establishment; after a few moments, she set her phone down beside her. “Should be here in about 25 minutes.”
Liam nodded as he stood from the sofa; he walked to the kitchen and grabbed two bottles of water from the refrigerator before returning to the living area. “Here,” he said, handing her one as he sat.
“Thanks,” Reyna grinned.
Reyna subtly glanced over at Liam. He’d been in the city for a week, and while she intended to finally talk to him during his visit, she hadn’t been able to. Every time they hung out, she’d build up the courage to bring it up, and then something would interrupt them.
The first day they met up, their time together was cut short when Liam got a phone call and had to go back to his hotel for an unplanned virtual meeting. They met up later that evening for dinner, but Reyna struggled to talk herself back into it after the moment had been ruined earlier.
The following evening, while at her apartment, just as Reyna talked herself into broaching the subject, Daniel showed up. He was a tad tipsy and had taken an Uber from the bar he’d been at to her place to tell her all about the terrible date he’d been on. After telling them his dramatic tale, he ended up passing out. Liam helped Reyna get him to the spare bedroom before he left to go back to his hotel.
The next day, Reyna had been intent on bringing it up; she had the entire conversation planned out in her head. After Liam arrived at her apartment that afternoon with lunch, she was about to bring it up when Maxwell called to tell him that he’d just heard from Drake for the first time in nearly three years. That, of course, threw Liam for a loop and altered his mood entirely … along with her plans.
Reyna didn’t attempt to bring it up in the two days that followed; she wanted to make sure Liam was in the right headspace for the conversation. Tonight, however, was his last night in the city before he’d be heading home. It was a now-or-never situation. She had to tell him tonight.
As a silence settled between them, Liam shifted his gaze in her direction; he noticed that Reyna had been acting off all week. Whenever they were together, she seemed a little on edge with her thoughts seemingly occupied by something else most of the time. He couldn’t help but wonder if it had something to do with his confession. They’d talked via phone calls and video chats since then, but this was the first time they’d seen each other in person since that trip she made to Cordonia. He was worried that what he’d confessed in a moment of weakness when he was unable to keep quiet about his feelings any longer — something he regretted doing almost instantly — had now made things awkward and weird.
The truth was that Liam was left feeling both guilty and humiliated by his confession. Not only was it something he sprung on her out of nowhere but something he didn’t put any thought into, which was why it had come out in a frustrated word vomit. He’d spent the time since working on coming to terms with the fact that she no longer felt the same.
Glancing at her again, Liam took note of the way Reyna’s leg was bouncing nervously. His eyes flickered up and he knitted his brows when he saw the contemplative expression she wore as she stared straight ahead. “Are you alright?” he finally asked.
Reyna looked at him. “Fine. Why?”
“That is a lie,” Liam chuckled. “You’re doing the anxious leg jiggle and you look like you’re trying to solve world peace.” She offered a smile that he noticed didn’t reach her eyes. “Seriously, Rey, what’s wrong?”
Reyna let out a breath and shifted her body on the sofa to face him. Now or never. “I … I need to talk to you about something …”
“Ok …?”
“It’s something I’ve been meaning to bring up all week, I just … I haven’t found the right time,” Reyna explained. He nodded as he stared at her expectantly, waiting for her to continue. “It’s about what you said when I was in Cordonia. Your … confession.” She watched him stiffen uncomfortably at her words, and she let out a breath. “Listen, I know you said not to say anything, but I need to tell you why I didn’t push harder to respond and—”
“Rey, don’t,” Liam interrupted. “Can we please not do this?”
“I just need you to hear me out because—”
“Stop,” Liam pleaded as he shifted his position on the sofa. “Please … stop talking.”
“Liam,” Reyna admonished.
“Reyna, you don’t have to do this. Really.” Liam sighed, running his hand through his hair.
“Do what?”
“Give me an explanation out of pity,” Liam said as he threw his hands up in frustration. He didn’t want to sit there and watch her suffer through trying to explain herself. She didn’t owe him an explanation of any sort. “I get that three years went by … that your feelings changed and our chances slipped away. I just … I just want to move on from it and not think about it.”
Reyna stared at him, both puzzled and frustrated. She’d been hesitant enough about telling him, having to build up the courage just to do so because that fear she had still lingered. She’d chosen to do it, however, because she finally conceded that the risk was worth it … he was worth it … they were worth it. And now, here he was, begging her to stop talking when she was finally ready to pour her heart out and tell him everything … because he had come to the conclusion that she simply fell out of love with him over the years.
What the hell am I supposed to do? Reyna thought as she closed her eyes and let out a breath. I have to tell him tonight. Then, an idea struck. She hadn’t known what exactly she was going to say or how she was going to say it, and clearly, she hadn’t started out well since the conversation seemed to be over before it began. But there was a way for her to tell him how she felt and show him how wrong he was without having to say anything at all.
“Stay here,” Reyna said.
Liam watched her stand and disappear down the hall, leaving him flustered on the sofa. As he muddled through the thoughts filling his head, a knock came on the door.
“I’ll get it,” Liam called out, assuming it was the pizza she’d ordered. He rose from the sofa and pulled his wallet from his back pocket, opening it up and fanning through the cash inside; he slipped his thumb between the bills to hold his place as he opened the door.
Liam froze when he saw Luca standing on the other side … holding a bouquet of roses.
The two men stared at one another. They’d never met face-to-face, but they knew exactly who the other was, both in real life … and Reyna’s.
Liam cleared his throat as he stood a little taller. “Luca, right?” he said, extending his hand for a shake in an attempt to be polite.
“Right,” Luca nodded, shifting the bouquet of roses into one hand while he shook Liam’s with the other; he gripped it a little tighter than necessary as he held Liam’s stare. He certainly didn’t expect to see him there.
“Luca?” Reyna questioned from behind Liam. Both men turned to look at her, meeting her surprised gaze as it flickered between them. “What … what are you doing here?”
Luca slid his eyes to Liam then back to her. “Can we talk?”
“Uh … sure …” Reyna nodded. “I’ll be right back,” she said to Liam before she stepped into the hall to join Luca, closing the door behind her.
Liam could feel his heart racing as he stared at the door. Are they …? He let out a breath. Perhaps this is what she wanted to tell him. Maybe … maybe they were getting back together … or already were, and that’s what she was trying to explain. His heart sank at the thought. Too curious and nosy for his own damn good, he took a step forward and quietly pressed his ear to the door.
In the hall, Reyna’s eyes dropped down to the bouquet in Luca’s hand, and his gaze followed. “I, uh … brought these for you,” he said as he handed them to her.
“They’re beautiful,” Reyna replied somberly; she had a guess as to why he was there. “What … what did you want to talk about?”
“Us …”
Inside the apartment, Liam drew back from the door. He’d heard enough. No, he didn’t know the whole context of their conversation and he wasn’t going to continue to listen in; it wasn’t his place. Regardless, the evening had taken a turn.
Liam chugged the remainder of his water bottle before heading down the hall to use the restroom; he was biding his time. When he returned to the living area and Reyna still hadn’t come back inside, he thought it best to leave them be and go back to his hotel. He pulled his phone from his pocket and sent a quick message to Bastien that he’d be out front in a few minutes.
Just as he slipped it back into his pocket, the door opened, and Reyna stepped inside, holding the roses. “Well … that was unexpected.” She noticed he was standing, lingering near the door. “I’m sorry about that.”
“You’ve nothing to apologize for,” Liam said. “I think I’m going to head out.”
“What?” Reyna said, feeling a slight panic at his words. “Why?”
“I’ve still got to pack for my flight in the morning and you’re heading to the mountains with Aunt Elsie bright and early, so …”
“Liam, I hope you don’t think … Luca stopping by, that wasn’t—”
“Rey, it’s fine,” Liam interrupted, knowing she was going to attempt to explain again. He moved, stopping in front of her, and resting his hands on her shoulders. “I don’t want anything to ruin this friendship we finally got back. I’d rather you be in my life as my friend than not have you at all. I can’t go through that again. So, it’s ok. Really. You don’t need to say anything else.”
Reyna stared up at him, once again puzzled and frustrated; she sorted through all the jumbled words she both wanted and needed to say but was too bemused by what was happening to speak.
“I’ll see you when you get to Cordonia. Have fun on your trip, and tell Aunt Elsie I said hello,” Liam halfheartedly smiled before leaning down and kissing her cheek.
With that … Liam left the apartment, leaving Reyna standing in a still-stunned silence as she stared at the door he’d just walked out of. What the hell just happened? She let out a breath as she glanced down at the roses in her hand. Luca had come there intending to see if there was a chance they could work things out; why he had that thought after all this time she didn’t know. He said that once he saw Liam there, he knew there was no point. He apologized for dropping by unannounced and left.
With a grumble, Reyna threw the roses onto the counter and headed to her room. She flopped down onto her bed, burying her face into her pillow as she let out a muffled frustrated scream. She sat up a moment later and her eyes landed on the item she had come to retrieve to give to Liam; she had tossed it on her bed in surprise when she heard Luca’s voice carry down the hall.
As she stared at it, Reyna decided she wasn’t ready to give up. Not yet. She’d finally talked herself into doing this and she was going to be damned if she let it go without Liam knowing the truth.
*******
Early the following morning, the SUV pulled up to the jet on the tarmac at JFK. Liam slipped out of the backseat and followed behind Bastien, who had his bag.
As Liam made his way up the stairs of the jet, a horn blaring startled him; he whirled around and furrowed his brows when he saw the familiar black Navigator belonging to the Aldridges screech to a halt alongside the jet. He slowly made his way back down the steps as Reyna came into view from around the vehicle.
“Rey?” Liam said as she approached him. “What are you doing here? I thought you were leaving with Aunt Elsie this morning?”
“I am. I made a pit stop here on my way to pick her up.”
“A pit stop for what?” Liam asked.
Reyna stared at him, forcing herself to not hesitate with this. “You think that you have me and my feelings all figured out—”
“Rey—”
“Shut up, Liam!” Reyna barked in exasperation, and his eyes widened in surprise. “You’ve said enough. It’s your turn to stop talking,” she said. “I will respect your wish to not say anything not just because you won’t listen to me but because neither of us has the time to stand here right now and hash all of this out. But I need you to read this …” She revealed a book he hadn’t noticed was tucked beneath her arm and held it out to him; it was what she went to grab from her room last night before they were interrupted.
Liam took it, furrowing his brows; it looked familiar, but he couldn’t place why at the moment. “What is it?”
“You think I simply fell out of love with you over the years … but hopefully reading this will make you understand. It will tell you everything you need to know. Promise me you’ll read it.”
“I …” Liam met her gaze again with both hesitance and confusion but nodded. “I’ll read it.”
Reyna eyed the book for a moment; it held her entire heart … and now it was in his hands. She let out a breath as she glanced back up at him. “I’ll be off the grid while I’m with Aunt Elsie … but I’ll see you when I get to Cordonia in a week. You have until then to read it … and then we’ll talk.”
Reyna perched up on her tiptoes, and Liam instinctively leaned down; she kissed his cheek before turning away, walking back toward her vehicle without a backward glance. He watched her disappear behind the SUV before it drove off the tarmac a moment later.
Liam glanced down, realizing he was looking at the worn brown leather cover of a thick journal; he turned it over in his hands, examining it as he made his way onto the jet.
***************************************
Perma Tags (if you’d like to be added or removed for this story, please let me know): @zaffrenotes @cocomaxley @emichelle @sweetest-marbear @indiacater @gibbles82 @the-soot-sprite @esmckenzie @dcbbw @burnsoslow @deb-1106 @bbrandy2002 @charlotteg234 @neotericthemis @foreverethereal123 @choiceskatie @sirbeepsalot @gnatbrain @openheart12 @sincerelyella @superharriet @queenrileyrose @aestheticartsx @kingliam2019 @indiana-jr @bascmve01 @rainbowsinthestorm @emkay512 @marshmallowsaremyfavorite @forallthatitsworth @walker7519 @iaminlovewithtrr @amandablink @mainstreetreader @mom2000aggie @princessleac1 @21-wishes @appleone @tessa-liam @pixelatedpassion @malblk21 @queen-arabella-of-cordonia @lovingchoices14 @nestledonthaveone @forthebrokenheartedthings @nomadics-stuff @differenttyphoonwerewolf
#the royal romance#choices the royal romance#trr#choices trr#liam rys#king liam rys#liam x oc#trr liam x oc#choices liam x oc#king liam x oc#trr king liam x oc#trr liam#king liam#trr fanfic#trr fanfiction#trr fan fic#trr au#trr au fanfic#choices au#choicesflashfics#cfwc fics of the week
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World Building
I'm a little late with the summary, but here it is. Thanks to everyone who attended and see you all again next month!
Where does your story take place?
Real-world v created world: You can use the world that we live in as it is. You can use the world that we live in with some tweaks. You can use alternate timelines/universes or create an entirely fictional world.
Alternate timelines Ex: modern day real world but WW I never happened.
High v low fantasy:
High fantasy refers to epic fantasy which is set in an alternate world. It typically includes lots of magical elements, fantastical creatures, and unusual technology. Whereas low fantasy is when magical creatures and elements intrude upon the regular world.
Things to consider/include:
Magic system
Geography
Political systems
Religion
Culture
Is there a class system? What does that look like?
Being grounded in the real world doesn’t save you from having to world-build.
What continent, country, city? Urban or rural? Mountains? Beach? A country can be set in the real world but it’s a fictional country. A city can be fictional. It can be based on NYC for example but still be fictional. Change the name and whatever else you need to.
You can blend real and imagined. Ex: Used the name of a real restaurant but placed it in a different town, etc.
Example: I used real roads but fake places. Anyone local will recognize the intersection but I put a fictional forest where a horse pasture actually sits.
You can create fictional shops, buildings, etc in NYC. NYC is real but the places aren’t.
Example: I had to create a building with a helipad in a story once b/c there are no helipads in that area, but I needed one for my story to work so I made it up. Could have used an actual one but my characters would have had to get past the FBI barricade, so it was easier to make up a building that was inside the perimeter.
Note:
If using magic, one must first establish how it normally works before showing it malfunctioning. Same if the character is supposed to be super strong or smart or something, establish that first so the reader understands what is normal in this world before the thing goes wrong.
Establishing Scenes: tell us all of the above. But do it in a way that shows not tells.
Also, make sure it matters. You need rich world-building but the reader doesn’t care what your character's first car was unless that information tells us something important about the character that we need to know, like he worked three summers in a row to earn the money because his parents were poor. Or because they were rich but stingy. Or because they were rich but wanted him to learn to earn things rather than have things handed to him. (if this is important to set a tone for his character or personality, ie, learned the value of hard work or this is why he resents his parents or this is why he is so driven to succeed in his career so he never goes hungry again!
Fabulous establishing world-building scene courtesy of @karahalloway:
The horse responds with a sour-faced snort, stepping quickly past the moss-covered waypost — a brazen reminder of this land's heathen roots.
Because despite the House of Rys' conversion to Christianity almost a millennia ago, in the far-flung reaches of the kingdom — where the roads ran out, and the name of the King is just that... a name — the tenet of the old ways is more than just a memory.
It is a living, breathing ethos. Suffused into the very heart of this harsh, rugged, yet beautiful land. Where portents, spells, and otherworldly creatures exist in the same breath as Christ, the Eucharist, and Judgement Day, and the very air crackles with mysticism and superstition.
Which is partly what drew me here — to the edge of the proverbial map, where the laws of Cordonia fray into irrelevance in the face of the jagged peaks of the snow-capped mountains, and your fortune is what you craft it to be.
This sets the stage with so many rich details: geography, history, socio-political, religious background, his place in this world,etc.
Please, if I've missed anything, feel free to mention it in the comments and I'll add it!
Also, check out these articles:
World Building
February Event:
Live Discussion on character building on Friday, February 23rd, 2024 12:00 p.m. CST
Word Warriors:
@karahalloway @aussiegurl1234 @harleybeaumont @alj4890 @peonierose @petiteboheme @twinkleallnight @lizzybeth1986 @noesapphic @thedistantshoresproject
@ryns-ramblings @tate-lin @nestledonthaveone
@aallotarenunelma @kristinamae093 @coffeeheartaddict2 @memorias-depresivas
@jerzwriter
#word warriors#discord chat#fanfic writing#creative writing#fanfic writers#writing#writers on tumblr#pacing#writing tips#writing help#writing advice#writer tips#writing resources#writing reference#writing scenes
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The Royal Romance, Bk1 Ch1: Once Upon a Time (Pt. 1)
Click here for the TRR retelling series masterlist for more chapters! 🏰
Tag list: I couldn't tag everyone because it wouldn't let me, but turn off "exclude from Tumblr search" for your account in settings and comment if you’d like to be tagged! @kingliam2019 @princess-geek (thanks for showing interest! Thought I would tag to say thank you!)
Story Summary: In this novel-style retelling of TRR, beloved scenes with original commentary from the Choices stories including your favourite group of royals and friends will be expanded upon. Contains extended commentary and scenes from the original story, in-depth descriptions of bonus scenes, and premium choices and outfits.
Chapter Synopsis: Love awaits in the royal court of Cordonia as Riley competes for the Crown Prince! Will she accept his proposal, or will someone else win her heart?
Disclaimer: All rights to original commentary, scenes, and characters from The Royal Romance series reserved to Choices and Pixelberry Studios. No copyright infringement intended.
Word Count: 1.6k
~ ~ ~
Those who found love with the right person, in the right place, at the right time, and the right life destined for them were rare. With how unpredictable life may be, not everyone was lucky to be destined with all of the key factors that would culminate for the biggest blessing from life itself.
One night’s chance encounter changed the lives of people who would become a close-knit group of friends in more ways than one.
Once upon a time, Riley Brooks was a young lady who resided in New York City. She was a fair-skinned, beautiful lady with dark ebony tresses and Dutch-braided bangs. With soft doe-like eyes and peach-coloured lips, Riley had met her fair share of suitors but none with whom she felt a longing connection to.
After working as a part-time waitress to put herself through school, she had finally graduated with an undergraduate degree and a Master of Arts degree in history from the prestigious New York University. At last, she was ready to explore the world beyond lecture halls, late night study sessions, and thesis dissertations.
“Just another glamorous New York Saturday night of hauling trash to the dumpster.” Riley sighed, heaving a stuffed black bag up where it would join the other garbage that had been piling up that night.
At the current moment, however, she was stuck on a late-night shift at the restaurant and bar where she had worked for the last six years. With all her might, she hoisted the humongous black garbage bag which landed on the others with a soft thump. She dusted off her hands, looking warily over her shoulder with the barely lit back area of the brick building.
There was something about the back alley of the building where she threw out the garbage every night that made her uneasy, partly due to the fact that drunk party goers tended to loiter there in the dark when veering off course from the streets and sidewalks. Luckily for her, she had her favourite coworker, Daniel, by her side to help.
“It could be worse. There could be—” Daniel, her co-worker had started before letting out a frightened yelp and darting away from the dumpster, “Rats! Riley, help!”
Riley glanced down at the sight before her, taking note of two adult mice and two baby mice. As they scurried away, she laughed. “Don’t tell me you’re afraid of this adorable mouse family. They’re trying to get by, just like us.”
“Hey!” A booming voice yelled out, making the two co-workers turn around. “Riley, Daniel, quit slacking off over there!”
If there was one thing Riley was ready to embrace, it was the fact that she had finally given her two-week notice to her boss. After six years, she would finally be out of his clutches and no longer have to hear constant nagging from him about every minuscule detail she had made the mistake of carrying out in front of him.
“You told us to take out the garbage,” Riley reminded him, a scowl deepening as she remembered how insufferable her boss was.
“And now I’m telling you to wait on the bachelor party that just rolled in. Chop chop!” The manager barked out, clapping his hands for emphasis before storming back inside the bar.
__________
Meanwhile, it was the night of Liam Rys’ bachelor party. Two of his friends plus one acquaintance had organized a clandestine night out in New York City before they returned to Cordonia for the social season.
Earlier that evening, Maxwell whooped out, “Awesome! We finally lost Bastien! I can’t believe we pulled that off, but I’m not going to question it.”
It was around eight o’clock on one Friday night when Liam, Maxwell, and Drake had escaped Liam’s bodyguard, Bastien. There was an outdoor music festival held all day at a nearby park and with all the large crowds, Maxwell and Drake had planned to help Liam escape from his royal duties for at least one night. Which meant losing his bodyguard as soon as possible and blending in with the New York nightlife.
“Knowing Bastien, I’m sure he’s got an eye on us somehow. At least we have the illusion of independence,” Drake commented, knowing that it was better than nothing. He knew if anything that this illusion could give Liam a slight sense of what he truly longed for.
“I’ll take it! Time to whip out the… ultimate Bachelor Party Bucket List!” Maxwell excitedly cried out, as he drew a worryingly long physical paper shaped like a bucket out of his pocket.
Blinking in confusion at the paper contraption his friend summoned out of nowhere, Drake remarked, “There were so many parts of what you said that I’d hoped weren’t literal.”
“Okay, here’s what I got…” Maxwell cleared his throat, reading from his paper bucket list. “Give each other crazy nicknames, get tattoos, eat at the best place in New York, have a spontaneous, crazy adventure, get into a fight, and get tattoos!”
“You said ‘get tattoos’ twice,” Drake plainly stated, not impressed by Maxwell’s idea of a bachelor party.
Maxwell rolled his eyes, giving Drake a look that indicated he should have known that the meaning was implied. “That’s how important it is!”
Drake shook his head, looking Maxwell straight in the eye. Never in a million years was he going to agree to tattoos, especially not for Maxwell’s pure amusement. “I’m not getting a tattoo.”
“Friendship tattoos!” Maxwell exclaimed, trying desperately to convince him otherwise. Tattoos were a long-lasting symbol of friendship in itself, right?
Clearly, Maxwell had different ideas on what qualified as fun things to do with your friends in an unfamiliar city. Drake scoffed, “There’s not enough whiskey in Manhattan.”
“We’ll circle back to that,” Maxwell responded, turning his back against Drake and not taking no for an answer. He elbowed Liam’s side with a cheeky smile. “Remember, it’s this guy’s night.”
Liam sheepishly chuckled. How lucky was he to have such thoughtful friends? “It is my night.”
“Yeah, yeah, don’t let it go to your head,” Drake warned him, although he had a small smile.
The prince was touched by his best friends’ warm gesture. Not everyone would go out of their way to make his one night of controlled freedom as enjoyable as possible, at least not as much as these two would. It was something he had never been allowed the luxury of, given that he was the Crown Prince of Cordonia and the heir to the throne after his older brother, Leo, had abdicated years earlier.
With a sad frown, Liam confessed, “Actually… It really means a lot to share this moment with both of you. After this summer, everything will change. I’ll be married… I’ll be preparing to start a family and carry on the royal line. It means everything to me to have one last moment with the two of you.”
“I don’t know that you’ve ever had a carefree moment in your life, but we’ll do our best,” Drake softly murmured. He meant this more than Liam would ever know. Drake had seen first-hand the struggles his best friend had gone through growing up with the burden of being royalty, but he wasn’t about to let his last night of freedom before the social season go to waste.
Maxwell nodded, a mischievous smile on his face. “Damn right we will. First up, nicknames.”
“What is this again?” Drake groaned in exasperation. Just when he thought they had made it past his bachelor party antics.
Once again, Maxwell looked at Drake as if the answer was obvious. He declared, “We think of awesome nicknames to give ourselves as a group!”
Drake’s deadpan answer was quick, his blank expression unwavering. “Cool. Mine’s Drake.”
Maxwell pouted, his bottom lip protruding out in protest. “Man, come on. You could pick anything! Alpha Bravo? Dark and Stormy? Toasted Marshmallow?”
“Pass,” Drake answered, crossing his arms over his chest.
“Unacceptable! All our nicknames are gonna be in theme! Right, Liam?” Maxwell questioned him, his eyebrows scrunched together in determination. Once Maxwell had an idea, he didn’t plan on giving up. It just wasn’t the Beaumont way.
Liam chuckled, amused at Maxwell’s enthusiasm to make his bachelor party much more lively. “What did you have in mind?”
“Well, we could theme it after cards like King of Hearts or Jack of Spades… or our favourite foods… or… or… like a fairytale!” Maxwell excitedly suggested, his eyes lighting up even brighter with each suggestion.
“Fairytale?” Liam asked, looking for clarification.
Drake guffawed, turning to Liam. “You could be Prince Charming.” It wasn’t far from the plain truth, anyway.
“There you go! Now you’re getting into it!” Maxwell grinned, pleased that Drake was now participating with the same level of gusto as he was.
Drake immediately frowned, not wanting to give off that impression and play into Maxwell’s fantasy of having the perfect bachelor party by his wild standards. “No… I just… ugh, Liam, pick one.”
“We should go with the theme…” Liam pondered with a smile to himself, before answering, “Fairytale. I kind of like Prince Charming.”
“Of course. I'm the Fairy Godmother because whatever you want tonight, I’ll make it happen!” Maxwell stated, his body giddy almost as if you could see the energy bouncing off of him.
Liam gestured to Drake, trying to think of a nickname for him. “What about Drake?”
Maxwell stepped closer to Drake, who rolled his eyes, before he snapped his fingers and announced, “He’s got ‘Dragon’ written all over him.”
“I’m good with that,” Drake agreed, shrugging his shoulders. It wasn’t the worst nickname he could be given.
“Yes! Let’s roll!” Maxwell cheered, happy with how things had worked out. One thing down, five more to go on the ultimate Bachelor Party Bucket List! “Next stop is dinner!”
~ ~ ~
Click here for the TRR retelling series masterlist for more chapters! 🏰
Tag list: Turn off "exclude from Tumblr search" for your account in settings and comment if you’d like to be tagged! @kingliam2019 @princess-geek
#choices fanfic#choices stories you play#choices app#choices game#choices#pixelberry#pixelberry studios#play choices#the royal romance series#the royal romance#trr#trr fanfic#the royal romance book 1#trr book 1#choices fandom#choices trr#playchoices#choices you play#choices pixelberry#choices stories we play#choices spoilers#choices book club#choices mc#choices matter#riley brooks#liam rys#drake walker#maxwell beaumont#hana lee#olivia nevrakis
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Side by Side Chapter 7: Challenger
Book: The Royal Romance.
Premise: With new additions to their family, King Liam and Rayne must re-evaluate their relationship dynamic.
Themes: Found family, hurt/comfort, angst, fluff, family.
Word Count: 3.2k per chapter, 18 chapters. About 60k.
Note: This story started just after TRR3 ended, and isn't related to TRH. See also Side by Side Masterlist & Master Masterlist Link
Two months after the wedding
Liam
The door flew open and she entered with a twisted smile. Liam set down his pen and leaned back, bracing for what would undoubtedly be another unpleasant interaction. The last few weeks had been particularly trying with his wife and he had all but given up on propriety.
“What is it, Madeleine?” he started without humour. “I have things to do.”
“You need to watch this.” Madeleine took the remote for the screen at the side of his office and began switching through channels, eyes on the screen. There was too much enthusiasm in her voice for this to be positive, and Liam sighed, then came around the table to watch. She settled on a news report; the backdrop was a New York City skyline. Liam turned to Madeleine, who was much too happy about this, and it filled him with dread.
They were speaking about some local conflict and the report was intercut with footage of it. Before he could question Madeleine on the relevance, however, the screen changed, music signalling a change in story. The reporter began again.
“We’ll return with more on that story later tonight. But for now, let’s return to our main story. For those of you just joining us, we have a special guest here this evening, would you please welcome back Genevieve O’Mara!”
The camera drew back to see a middle-aged woman in a crisp suit walk onstage. She waved to the crowd and took a seat opposite the host. Liam felt Madeleine’s gaze as the identity of the woman dawned on him. The crowd’s applause died down and the reporter continued.
“Along with being a rising figure in New York’s political scene, Ms O’Mara comes to us with her other claim to fame” – Genevieve smiled, adjusting her seat to face the reporter – “Some of you may also know of Genevieve’s daughter, Joanna Rayne Kham, who currently resides in Cordonia.”
A smiling photo of Rayne in her old waitress outfit flashed onscreen. He guessed that it was a few years old; her face was open and vulnerable, and without the cares and experiences she had now. That innocence, he guessed, might be why they chose it.
“Rayne is the current Mistress of recently married King Liam, and we have a photo of the wedding here…”
Liam clenched his fists and tried to ignore Madeleine’s sardonic smirk as a picture of the two of them before the Basilica filled the screen. It zoomed in past their formal smiles to the edge of the frame where Rayne was laughing with Olivia and Leo. The image faded back to the studio.
“So, Gen, the question on all our minds. What happened? How does a young woman like your daughter, who surely has so much more to offer the world, end up as just ‘the other woman’ to a young European monarch?”
Liam’s stomach lurched as he prepared for what could only be damaging words, and he tightened his fists in an effort to keep his hands from shaking. Genevieve straightened, that same sweet smile as when he had briefly met her last year.
“My beautiful, darling Rayne, who I have not been allowed to see for months, is a strong woman. It breaks my heart that she is being used in this way.” She sighed theatrically. “I can only hope that, with enough support, we can liberate her from the grasp of this king.” She finished with a damp-eyed face to the camera and sympathetic sounds came from the unseen audience.
Liam stared at the screen, rooted to the spot and barely breathing as the woman discredited her own daughter.
“Are you saying that King Liam is holding her against her will?”
“As I said, I raised my daughter to be strong. I was surprised that she was not beside me to grieve the tragic accident that took her brother, my son, two years ago. I thought she must need her own space.” She choked out the last few words, wiping a tear from her eye to accompany the blatant lie. He might have felt more compassion from her if he didn’t have the full truth from Rayne.
“Rayne was in a vulnerable place, then,” responded the reporter, “when she travelled to Cordonia.” Genevieve nodded.
Madeleine watched him closely, and he kept his anger well checked.
“I’m sure the King made her a good offer.”
“No doubt.” Genevieve nodded, then sighed. “I can only think of one other reason that my daughter would allow herself to be manipulated like this, but it is difficult to see how it could be the only reasons she stayed…”
Liam held his breath.
The door opened again and Rayne entered, wide eyes darting around the room and settling on the screen.
“You’re just in time, Joanna,” greeted Madeleine. Rayne paled at the name. She came to stand between them and Liam gripped her trembling hand as the horror continued to unfold. Just in time.
“…you’re saying is that the reason we haven’t seen your daughter out in public recently is that she’s pregnant?”
“Oh my god…” Rayne covered her mouth and stumbled back toward the couch on the opposite side of the room. Liam followed, steadying her gait and crouching to hold her hand when she was seated.
“Exactly. I have the transcript of our last message where she indicated as—”
“Turn it off,” Liam said firmly. Madeleine raised an eyebrow.
“—All I can ask, Rayne, if you’re watching—”
“Off, Madeleine. Now,” he demanded. They had heard more than enough. Beside him, Rayne’s breathing was shallow and quick, her gaze still fixed on the screen.
“—know that I love you. Don’t let this—”
Madeleine switched off the television and turned to face them. “You need to put together a statement. This will become cancerous to your rule if you don’t stamp it out now. Our people need answers.”
“I am well aware of this,” he said evenly, more focused on Rayne than the conversation. “Now leave us.”
“We need to work together on this problem.” He eyes darted to Rayne as she said it, then back to him. “We need to do it soon.”
“I will take care of it, leave us.” He repeated, then turned to Rayne, who was now staring at the floor and visibly trying to calm herself. When Madeleine approached the desk, Liam stood to intercept. “That was not a request. I will not ask again.”
Her mouth was a thin line as she responded. “Be careful whom you threaten.” She returned the remote. “I will draft a response.”
The moment she was gone, Liam was at Rayne’s side, rubbing her hands. She pulled one free and rested it on her belly as her breathing became shallower.
“Breathe, Rayne, deep breaths.” He lifted a hand to her face, and panic shot through him when she winced.
“I-I can’t… why would… she do that,” Rayne spoke in gasps, turning watery eyes to him. Her breathing was returning to normal which released the pressure on his own chest. She stood slowly, and he rose with her.
“It doesn’t matter now,” he soothed, “we will handle this. It will be fine.”
She opened her mouth to respond, but was caught in short breaths, and Liam returned her to the couch, sitting beside her.
“In any case,” he said gently after a few moments as he held her. “It’s been almost three months. We had planned to make the announcement in a few days, now that we are out of danger.”
Slowly, Rayne’s breathing calmed, and he felt her chest rise and fall more evenly against his. He smiled, rubbing her arm. After a while like that she drew back to look at him, frowning.
“They…” she cleared her throat, “they’re implying you’re keeping me here against my will. Even if I go out there now, you’re still going to be under fire from the press. They won’t let this go easily.”
“We will be fine, my love. I will be fine.” After the repetition, he pulled her close again. “Once they know the truth, they will understand. I promise.”
“I’m worried about what this means for you,” she said against his chest.
“Whatever it is, I will work with it.” He smiled. “Right now, this means I can tell the world that six months from now, I will be a father.”
Present day
Rayne
Rayne sat by the front steps to the palace with Leo in her arms and Evie in the twin pram beside her. The weather was cooling, and the air outside was a fresh contrast to the stillness in the palace. Despite the staff, the council and occasional visitors there was an immensity to the place that was difficult to fill. It was one of the reasons Rayne enjoyed the warmth and familiarity of her own suite with its smaller rooms and reflections of love and family in every room.
Being outside was one way Rayne could reconnect with the world apart from the palace. The open sky was a place larger than vaulted ceilings and three level atriums. It still made her feel small, but in a comforting way.
Lost in her musings, Rayne didn’t hear the gates open down the gravel drive until a vehicle appeared through them. She smiled and stood, smiling more to herself when her joints cracked from the long wait. Getting old, she thought, and it felt like that sometimes. But since she was still in her mid-twenties it was more a complaint to amuse herself.
Barely had the vehicle stopped thirty feet from her when the door flew open and a woman leaped out. A familiarly blond, curvy figure in gaudy colours and dark lipstick.
“Rayne!” Clair cried, forgetting her bag and the open door in her haste to embrace her friend. Rayne shielded Leo in preparation for an unexpected impact but it never came. Clair recollected herself in time to register the infants and paused a few feet away. “Is that…”
“Leo,” Rayne said as she adjusted him to be more visible, “and Evie just here.” She nodded to the pram still close beside her. Rayne felt the comparative placidity of her own energy in contrast to Clair, who pressed both hands to her mouth with a sheen in her eyes as she took in the tiny bundles.
“They’re so beautiful,” Clair managed after a moment. Unexpectedly, the words bloomed in Rayne’s chest as if a compliment to herself. Rather than address it, she agreed.
“They really are.”
Evie murmured from the pram and Rayne adjusted Leo to reach down and shift her blanket a little to hold her hand. Clair watched, but their attention was a moment later drawn back as Clair’s bag was carried past.
“The letter I received wasn’t specific about where I was staying…” Clair frowned, distracted, as one of the palace staff carried the suitcase up the stairs, and Rayne frowned at her reference to a letter she had no knowledge of.
“There’s a room prepped for you in the guest wing.” She adjusted Leo again and returned him to the pram beside his sister. “Stay here as long as you like.”
“The guest wing…” Clair smirked. “Sweet deal. I should have known in college that you would end up living like royalty."
Rayne chuckled as she turned the pram around. Her preferred entrance to the palace took them through a small garden on the west side of the main building. It was closer to the royal wing, but they could detour to the guest wing on the way.
"Wow." Clair stopped, and Rayne withdrew from the logistics in her mind. "That view," her friend clarified. Rayne followed her gaze to the visible parts of the city and her first thought was that you could hardly see any of it from here. She smiled.
"You remind me of how I felt when I first arrived."
Clair frowned then, resting an arm across Rayne's shoulders. "Has this place lost its wonder in your eyes?"
"No… it's just…" she paused, looking for the right words. "I am very happy here."
Clair sighed, squeezed Rayne's shoulders in a one armed hug, then released her, and they continued.
"You've never been a good liar." Clair said, more sombre, as they walked with the pram before them. "I hope you really are happy here, because you deserve that." She paused, sighed, then added, "more than anyone I know."
And that was the last thing said between them until they reach the entrance, which was level with the upper floor.
Clair had resumed her gaze at everything around them and stepping into the palace was no exception.
"Oh my…" she didn't finish the expression as she took in the opulence that Rayne was now so used to after nearly two years. She recalled Clair’s earlier words.
"Tell me about the letter you got."
Clair’s attention snapped back, and they stopped at the entrance to the royal wing.
"I assumed you knew." She frowned once more. “I got a letter and a plane ticket that said you needed help. I don’t know who sent it, but I heard your darling mother was here, so I came as soon as I could.”
Rayne stared at her. It was one thing for her to get in touch, another entirely for someone to call her over. She did a mental scan for which of her friends would have contacted Clair and landed on Drake. Dammit.
"Don't be mad, Rayne. It was past time I came over."
She was saved from responding by familiar footsteps approaching from the farthest room, and steeled herself for the interaction.
"I didn't realise you ever left your apartments," Madeleine said when she reached them, casting a disapproving eye over both.
Not unexpectedly, Clair didn’t wait for an introduction.
“Hello, Your Majesty,” she said, with the wide smile Rayne recalled as reserved for when she was being deliberately disrespectful. "An honour."
"Indeed." Came Madeleine’s reply. Taller than Clair by an inch in her heels (and taller than Rayne by nearly four), she looked down on them both. Her manner wasn't the worst Rayne had experienced, but being in front of her guest was pushing it.
"I'm sure Madeleine has many important tasks to achieve." She cut off the conversation, if it could be called that. Clair fidgeted, but Rayne put a hand on her shoulder before any retort came. "Matters of governance, we should let you return to them."
"Astute." Madeleine said, lips curling into a smile that made Rayne uncomfortable. "As it happens, my business involves meeting with the King, my husband, before my next meeting." And she passed them without another word.
"Give Liam my best," called Rayne before she could resist, using Liam's name instead of his titles. Madeleine didn't pause, and Rayne knew the sentiment would never make it to him.
Close to a year now, Rayne had been subject to the jibes and reiterations of their comparative statuses. It hadn't affected her in a long time, but doing it in front of her guest was a step too far.
Clair offered her own farewell in the form of a particular hand gesture, then smirked at Rayne.
"What a bitch." She said, not checking whether they could still be heard. "You put up with that?"
Rayne rolled her shoulders back, rested her hands on the pram again, and they continued their walk to her suite.
"She's mostly harmless," she shrugged, "just doesn't like me. In her eyes I'm here solely to placate Liam and make him happy, whilst she remains in charge."
Clair was quiet for a few moments as they walked, looking around at the sculptures and paintings and rich colours, then glanced at Rayne again.
"Maîtresse-en-titre." Clair said as they slowed near Rayne's door. "Just saying…"
Rayne frowned, vaguely remembering the term. She put a hand on the door knob, then snorted in amusement.
"Official mistress?"
Clair grinned. "You were always good at history."
"French court, 15th century. Semi-formal position." They entered the rooms and she laughed, adding; "with their own apartments in the palace."
"Now you're just showing off." Clair said as she looked around the room. "Wow…" then she turned back to continue, still grinning. "So, you're the semi-official girlfriend. With the difference being you can legitimize your children."
Rayne stopped smiling as she lifted Evie out of the pram. Madeleine was right, then. She was here for the sole purpose of keeping Liam happy and having, but not necessarily raising, his children.
Clair appeared at her side with concern, noting the change in her.
"But you're so much more than that," soothed her friend. "They'll realise that very soon, and you'll get everything you deserve. I promise."
Rayne nodded, unconvinced, but smiled anyway. "I have Liam, and I have Leo and Evie. That's all I need."
Clair sighed, then refocused on Leo, still in the pram. "Can I..?"
She nodded again, and Clair beamed, lifting him from the pram and holding him very gently. "They look just like you, Rayne. Except for those eyes… so blue."
When the twins were settled in their rockers, Clair turned to her again. “Please let me see my friend,” she said, placing a hand on Rayne’s forearm. “Miss that girl.”
Rayne gave a small smile, then excused herself under the pretence of finding Evie’s knitted blanket and moved down the hall. Behind her, Clair was already cooing to them, scheming over replacing their mother as favourite caretaker.
Down the hall in her bedroom, Rayne gently closed the door and fell back against it, burying her face in her hands. She should have expected the direct questions and prodding, but it had caught her off-guard, with Clair trying to go deeper that Rayne had willingly ventured in months. Vulnerability, in this environment, made her an easy target for many people. Liam was the only one who saw that side of her, when she let it out at all. She wiped away a few tears and wondered, not for the first time, whether this was truly sustainable.
That didn’t matter, she reminded herself, because she wasn’t important in this situation. Leo and Evelyn were.
“You are stronger than this.” She repeated to herself. Then, straightening, she cleared her throat and smiled. Better. Leaving the moment behind, she approached Liam’s walk-in robe, stopping when she spotted Evie’s blanket in a chair by the window. Liam brough his daughter in here when she woke up, rather than the living room. The smile became a little easier when focused on that.
Moving back toward the main room, Rayne leaned on the door frame and watched her friend holding Leo again, making faces. She glanced up.
“This boy is such a flirt. Wonder where he gets that from.” Clair grinned, then sobered when she focused on Rayne. “That smile is just like the ones you wear whenever you’re on the news.”
Rayne sighed. “I know.”
“I’d really love to see my friend while I’m here. No judgement. An honest conversation, that’s all.”
“I know.” Rayne moved further into the room and wrapping the blanket around her daughter before picking her up and pressing a kiss to her forehead.
Apparently seeing the subject was over, Clair moved on. “So… is daddy’s brother here at the moment?”
She smirked. “I wondered how long it would take you.” Rayne looked at Clair properly. “I’m still debating whether to introduce you.” Unsurprisingly, Leo had discovered Rayne had a friend coming days before. Despite his questions, she hadn’t confirmed if Clair was single, or even interested in men.
“I’m not that bad,” Clair said, grinning when Rayne lifted an eyebrow, and moving on. “If you’re holding Leo the uncle back, when do I get to meet the elusive father?”
“Liam should be here really soon. He’s finishing early today. To meet you, actually.” Rayne frowned. “What time is it?”
“A little after five,” Clair said, looking at her watch. “I would have expected punctuality from His Majesty.”
“One among many excellent qualities...” Not wishing to worry her friend, Rayne kept her growing concern internal. ”He’s probably just caught up with something. I’ll message him.” Rayne pulled out her phone, and frowned at it.
“I can keep an eye on them if you want to go to his office? I’ll tell them the tale of how I met the most tenacious little girl ever.”
“Good idea, and thank you.”
“Go ahead. We’ll be alright here.” Clair nodded to her. Rayne responded the same and headed out the door.
Her gait steadily increased as she moved through the halls, breath coming short. There was no logic in the foreboding, but in her heart, Rayne felt something was wrong.
No one answered her knock when she arrived, and the door was ajar. She pushed it open. One figure in the room – slumped forward in the chair behind his desk.
“Liam!” She rushed to his side to find him motionless, still half in his chair but face down on the desk. Work surrounded him, pen still in his slack hand, and tears stung her eyes when she shook his shoulders and received no response. “No, no, no, no… please…” she pleaded in earnest, begging him to still be breathing as the world begun to close around her.
Pulling herself together enough to gently turn his head, Rayne placed two fingers near his nose. Her heart skipped as she waited to feel his breath, and when she did her legs nearly gave out. Alive, but that didn’t stop her limbs from shaking. There was no reason for him to be unconscious here, and no immediate explanation in the items around him, but then the document beneath him caught her eye, a messy scrawl like a bad imitation of Liam’s signature visible. Gently easing the document free, she blinked into focus, and read the heading.
Fire flooded her veins.
--------
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Something New....
So….I watched one episode of Unsolved Mysteries and a whole thing happened.
First of all, I have always been a huge fan of both crime and medical procedurals. If you don’t know what I mean by procedural, here is the Wikipedia definition: In television, "procedural" specifically refers to a genre of programs in which a problem is introduced, investigated, and solved all within the same episode. These shows tend to be hour-long dramas and are often (though not always) police or crime related.
After both @harleybeaumont and @dcbbw encouraged me to do something with the fact that the unsolved mystery sent my head spinning in a million different directions, an idea was born. An idea for a procedural-type series, with each multi-chapter episode a stand-alone mystery, with overarching storylines for the main characters woven throughout every episode.
A series that has very little to do with canon. No one is royalty and it’s set in the good old U.S.A. The name of my fictional city is a nod to canon though: Cordonia City.
Thanks so much to @harleybeaumont @dcbbw @karahalloway and @aussiegurl1234 for helping me tweak and revise the blurb found below. Extra special thanks to @harleybeaumont for spending the better part of a week bouncing ideas with me and working on the visuals for me.
What lies in the heart of Cordonia City?
Situated on the Eastern Seaboard of the United States, Cordonia City is the largest metropolitan area in the country. Renowned for its culture, it’s an epicenter for artists of all types, world-class culinary establishments, and financial institutions. But there’s a dark underbelly to the city, one that never sleeps.
Law’s End, the largest of the boroughs, is rife with turmoil. It’s a place where wealth and privilege live side by side with poverty and squalor, where passion intertwines with betrayal. A place where lies and deceit are commonplace, politics and corruption rule, and crime and violence flow through the city streets.
These are the stories of the people that fight against the tide of injustice, and the woman who chronicles those crusades.
Liam Rys is a strait-laced cop who won’t step outside the lines of the law for any reason, even if that means the bad guy walks. Rules are rules and they’re there for a reason.
Drake Walker is a jaded PI who believes the ends justify the means. He treats lines and rules as suggestions at best and things that stand in his way at worst.
Maxwell Beaumont is a multitalented photojournalist with mad cyber skills. He doesn’t necessarily care about the lines, the rules, or the ends, he’s just along for the ride.
Riley Brooks is an investigative journalist assigned to the crime desk and an up-and-coming true crime novelist who is looking for her next big story. She’ll go to great lengths to get what she wants, and she never reveals her sources.
With Olivia Nevrakis as the DA, Hana Lee as the medical examiner, and Madeleine Amaranth as mayor, anything could happen.
Welcome to.....
#trr au#trr fanfic#crime drama#the royal romance#angelasscribbles#trr#drake walker#liam rys#the royal romance fanfic#choices#riley brooks#choices fic writers creations#cfwc fics of the week
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Book: TRR AU/ Once upon a time prequel
Pairings:Liam x Savannah
Word count:1367
Disclaimer: All characters belong to pixelberry.
Rating: Mature
Warning: none
A/N: The @kingliamappreciationweek (day 1 ) was an excellent excuse to revisit my very old WIPs. Thank you @lizzybeth1986 for brainstorming the title for this fic that hopefully will be a mini series.
Prompt: That's how the story goes @choicesflashfics and flower, sunrise @aprilchallenge by @peonierose for @choicesmonthlychallenge
🥀🥀🥀🥀🥀🥀🥀🥀🥀🥀🥀🥀🥀🥀🥀🥀🥀🥀
The island of Corsica,
Mediterranean sea,
France.
The first rays of the rising sun kissed the peak of Monte Cinto igniting the deep red of the granite and then bowed at its foothills before bathing the valley of Lozzi. With the thick backdrop of chestnut forests and the evergreen sheet of the shrubs, the village of Lozzi brightened to its glory. The fragrance of the flowers of the Maquis carried far out across the land as life stirred awake on the “Scented Isle.”
Savannah was already up on her toes, hastening through her morning chores before she reached her workplace.
It had been a couple of years since she left Cordonia and had made her little abode on this island. She had no regrets, no complaints. With her qualifications she was able to pick up a job that helped her manage her expenses in Corsica. Moreover, she was grateful for having a reason to live. A reason to look at the world through the innocent blue eyes of her little munchkin. She thanked the Almighty in her prayers and then got ready for the day.
After a couple of hours, she walked down a curved path to a cream building that had a dull blue board with a large print of 'Middle school of Moltifao'. This was where she had found her happiness. She was re- living her childhood teaching history lessons to some ten year olds here. She entered a modest room decorated with hand made amateur charts.
Twenty one curious little minds were eagerly waiting in that room for an interesting story from their teacher, whom they adored. They were all delighted to see her and so was she.
Except, the topic for the day was a bit difficult for her to deal with. It was going to bring back memories of her 'Prince Charming' and so much more. But, 'the show must go on' she thought and began…
"We discussed Vatican City last time. Today let's talk about Cordonia. Can anyone tell me what's common between these two countries of Europe?" She made their little minds work.
The plump girl on the first desk shot her hand high in the air. Savannah smiled at the Hermione of her class.
"Yes, Susan, tell me."
" They are both absolute monarchies." She beamed proudly.
"You are right."
Rio, who always had doubts about anything and everything, interjected, "But why? I understood the reasons for Vatican City in the last class Ms Walker. Why is Cordonia ruled by a king when the rest of the countries in Europe have elected governments?"
"Good question, Rio. Cordonia had its own struggle too. There was a period of unrest when a group of people revolted and did not want the royals. But everything changed when King Liam took over the reins."
She felt the blush rising to her cheeks. She was irritated, realizing what effect his name had on her even after all these years.
She covered up her nervousness and shifted her gaze from Rio to the rest of the class. "Anyone know about him and how he brought about the change?"
Susan again stretched her hand high, but so did Sana, the quietest of them all. Savannah smiled at Susan in an understanding and then asked Sana to speak. "He is King Liam, the wise. He is very kind, cares for his people and loves them."
"Very good, Sana!" She encouraged her.
Sana coyly looked at her classmates and when she saw everyone smiling, she continued, "King Liam belongs to the Rhys dynasty. Ever since his coronation he has helped his people. He relaxed many rules to ease out the life of common people. Unlike other nobles he gels with commoners and is comfortable with us."
The last word sent Savannah's mind on a spin. 'She said 'us'. What does she mean by 'us'? Is she from Cordonia? What are the odds? Will my secret be revealed?' her thoughts were racing yet she maintained her poise and politely asked, "That's very nice,Sana. How do you know these details?"
"My aunt lives in Cordonia. They have apple orchards there. Aunt Cher told me there was an attack once by bad people and all their orchards were destroyed. She says King Liam waived off the taxes and came down himself to work with farmers. That's how the story goes." Sana concluded.
Savannah would have been lost in her thoughts, of her time with him around the apple trees, had Nader not raised a question, "Did he fight the bad people?"
Sana shrugged her shoulders and looked at her teacher for an answer.
Savannah composed herself again, "Not exactly, Nader. The attacks happened when King Liam was just crowned."
Nader interjected wide eyed, " You mean there were more than one attack?"
Savannah nodded sadly. "Cordonia had a tough time. Liam had to face another such attack before he could prove himself. But under his command, the military became stronger, the council became more sympathetic to the needs of citizens and the country started flourishing. The bad people had to give up their fight and accept that Liam is the best ruler they have had in a century."
Emanuel, the wise boy of the class shared his opinion, "He seems to be a very nice person."
Savannah felt a wave of pride as she added, "Indeed he is. Liam is liked by not just his countrymen but he is even a favorite in meetings held at global levels. And guess why?" She spurred the kids.
Emanuel replied or rather questioned back, "Is it because he is very kind and always respectful?"
Savannah agreed, "Yes Emanuel, he is affectionate and gentle. He is courteous and obliging to all. That is the whole reason he is called people's king."
Rachel asked in a shy tone, "Is he handsome?"
Savannah almost snorted at the little girl's interest, "Very much! He is the most gallant and chivalrous gentleman you will ever meet."
"What does he look like?"
Savannah realized that she had turned as red as Rachel, blushing while she answered. " He is tall and a strong man. He looks at you with the calmest blue eyes and he is ever smiling, making you forget all your worries." This was getting a bit out of hand so she thought of changing the topic but the children seemed unstoppable.
Dave raised a point that turned out to be the most disturbing for Savannah, "Did you ever meet him or see him?"
She closed her eyes for a moment. 'I was supposed to be with him but I can't tell you that.' She took a deep breath before she spoke. "Yes, I was lucky to see and meet him a few years ago."
Some of the kids gasped at that. She responded with a weak smile. Rachel seemed to be fascinated just as Savannah was as a little girl. So she inquired, "That must be like a dream come true!"
Savannah nodded through teary eyes and tried to curb the choking feeling in her throat. 'No more.' she couldn't fight her emotions for long so she decided to wrap up the session.
She swallowed thickly, "I think that's enough for today's class. Your assignments are due next week. Till then, read well and enjoy the tales from the past." She waved off with her signature line. She picked up her belongings and scurried away from the class in an effort to hide the overwhelming feeling she had.
Her students were to just read their history books but for her it was revisiting those excruciating wounds that were left from the memories of the man she loved.
She moved out of the door and started to her left without looking. She thought she banged into a wall but it was cushioned and smelled familiar. Too familiar. Like a part of her. No, it was the missing part of her. She shut her eyes tight to shoo away the daydream but the sound that followed, confirmed that it was real.
"If you like me so much, why did you leave me?" Liam lamented in his deep tone. Savannah slowly opened her eyes, to face the set of peaceful ocean blues. She lost all her control and the dams of her eyes came crashing down.
(part 2 coming soon. Thank you so much for reading 😊)
Tags: @3pawandme @alj4890 @angelasscribbles @annabellewynter @bascmve01 @bebepac @busywoman @dcbbw @choicesficwriterscreations @harleybeaumont @iaminlovewithtrr @karahalloway @kingliam2019 @lovingchoices14 @nestledonthaveone @neotericthemis @mom2000aggie @phoenixrising0308 @princess-geek @sazanes @secretaryunpaid @sfb123 @sillydg @tessa-liam @tinkie1973 @txemrn @walkerdrakewalker @rubiwalker @703cowbarn @kyra 75 @likealotus @kskvb20 @marietrinmimi @juan-francisco-palencia
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The Start of Forever
Premise: The Prince always knew his duty would require sacrifice, but no one told his heart that.
Book: The Royal Romance
Pairing: Liam x MC (Phoebe Summers)
Rating/Category: General. Angsty Fluff.
Words: 810
A/N: Some of you know, Liam is my favorite Choices LI [I changed the default name to Aiden]. I don't typically write for TRR, but the @kingliamappreciationweek inspired me to write this fic. This is for Day 5. Enjoy!
I'm using @choicesflashfics week 29, prompt 2 (in bold) and @creativepromptsforwriting prompt 362. Tagging for reblog to @creativepromptfills. Also submitting to @aprilchallenge prompt "wish"
Prince Aiden Rys had not grown up believing love was a possibility in his future. He might have wished for it -- in the darkest part of the night when his thoughts were too loud for him to sleep — and secretly hoped he could fall in love with the woman he would marry.
But believe? No. That required more than he had to give. And he had already given up so much. And yet. For a few hours last night, he fell in love and believed in the possibility of forever.
Aiden glanced at the digital clock on the bedside table, ubiquitous to hotel rooms everywhere, and locked his hands behind his head on the pillow. He should get up and get dressed. But he did none of those things. Wanting to prolong these fleeting moments of freedom for as long as he could.
Bastien would knock on his door in a couple of hours, reverential but unyielding, as he shepherded Aiden to the airport. The bodyguard’s presence would mark the end of this interlude and the beginning of the next: Cordonia’s social season and selecting his future queen.
But the Masquerade Ball was still hours away, and Aiden was not ready for reality to intrude just yet.
Earlier tonight, he arrived at the address Maxwell had texted him. Aiden hadn’t known what to expect from what appeared to be a dive bar. But knowing his exuberant friend, he’d had trepidations. At the same time, he hoped Drake would keep the younger Beaumont brother in check.
Okay, somewhat in check, Aiden laughed silently. Very few people in this world had the power to control Maxwell.
All his reservations went out the door the moment he saw her. The ugly uniform couldn’t detract from the beauty of her heart-shaped face and soulful blue eyes framed by long black hair, the front of which was arranged in a complicated braid.
One could argue there were more beautiful and sophisticated women at Court. But at that moment, Aiden was hard-pressed to name a single one of them, let alone remember what they looked like.
All he could think was, finally. There you are. Quickly followed by not her, not now.
He couldn’t fall in love just when he had accepted what he must do for the good of his kingdom. The people of Cordonia deserved a monarch who placed duty, the honor of sacrifice and love for one’s country ahead of everything else.
Aiden hoped he would one day be worthy of Cordonia’s storied legacy.
But tonight, just for a few hours more, he wasn’t a king or a prince. He was just Aiden. A man that craved freedom even as he embraced his responsibilities.
During dinner, he’d tried to hide his feelings, but his eyes followed Phoebe every chance they got. He hoped he’d been surreptitious in his admiration, but he’d never been in love.
Drake had given him a look that told Aiden he wasn’t being his usual stoic self. After that, he’d turned his attention to the deluxe burgers, listening absently to Maxwell’s tall tales and ignoring Tariq’s snide remarks about the food and the establishment.
Later, Aiden walked up to Phoebe, apologized for his friends’ boorish behaviors and racked his brain for an excuse to stay in her orbit a while longer.
Luckily he remembered Maxwell’s earlier comment about wanting to try a New York City nightclub, and things progressed from there. The flashing lights held no appeal for him, but sharing a drink with Phoebe and telling her his secret had felt freeing.
The whole night had been a lesson in spontaneity, from Phoebe arranging a private boat tour of the Statue of Liberty to that unexpected kiss just as the cloud cover broke and the stars sparkled above them like so much fairy dust.
They only realized they were holding hands the entire time, the moment they had to let go as the boat docked at the pier. They disembarked, turning to face each other, the Manhattan skyline rising behind them, both uncertain about what came next. But knowing instinctively this was it. There was no next.
That’s all they were now. A memory. A faded picture. A failed potential. Two people, right for each other, who’d met at the wrong time.
If only, thought Aiden, shoving the covers aside, swinging his legs off the bed and forcing himself to let go.
He might be a prince, but he’d always known his life was not a fairy tale.
When the knock came on his door, as he’d known it would, he glanced at the man in the mirror one last time. One who’d been free to kiss the woman he loved on a starry night under the watchful eye of the ultimate symbol of freedom.
And he said goodbye to what could never be.
-------------
@choicesficwriterscreations @lizzybeth1986 @sazanes
#the royal romance#choices trr#trr fanfic#choices fanfics#choices fanfiction#klaw day 5#kingliamappreciationweek#choices fic writers creations#cfwc fics of the week#liam rys#liam rys x mc#short story#writers on tumblr
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The Freshman x The Royal Romance CrossOver Series
Rating: Mature
Summary: The Freshman and The Royal Romance Series from Pixelberrry Studios (Choices). What if The Freshman Gang and The Royal Romance Dream Team all met and even being in each other's lives through out after Hartfied and Cordonia. Are they going to get along well and even make friendships? Are they going to work together? or... this might not end well for both groups?.. A Crossover series of two well known choices books and they all meet/reunion after two to three years..
Characters: Mikaylyn Ortega, Zig Ortega, Chris Powell, Kaitlyn Liao, Zack Zilburg, Abbie Bishop, Rebecca Davenport, Tyler Allan, James Ashton, Will Williams, Sumi Ayashi, Liam Rys, Hana Lee, Maxwell Beaumont, Drake Walker, Olivia Nevrakis
My AU
- Zig and Mikaylyn are married
- TRR Mc is a guy, Will Williams and King Liam Rye are getting married.
- Abbie and James are dating
- Sumi is Mikaylyn's best friend that was not a Hartfeld student but gets along with everyone else
- The Freshman Gang are graduates
- Will Williams are still friends with Sumi, Mikaylyn and The Freshman Gang but have not met up ever since Will moved out of the state.
Warnings: NSFW, Swearing, Sensitive topics like harassment, emotion abuse and more.
Word Count: 1729
___________________________________
Chapter One: The Freshman Gang's POV
It was a lovely day in the city, the gang all had graduated from Hartfied and living in their new lives. Mikaylyn and her friends are living happily in their lives since graduation. Right now seems like the group all had been reunited in a buffet restaurant after a while last time they all met up. Everyone seems like having a good time by talking and having fun conversation. Some conversations were deep as continuing to have a conversation.
"Hey guys! Check this out!" Chris says as he showed his phone to everyone at the table.
It was a news article about King Liam Rys and Will Williams together. Mikaylyn and Sumi looked into Chris's phone and both realized that Will was getting married. Everyone else was invested about them while Sumi and Mikaylyn overthinks this, they used to have a trio with Will but when he had to leave their state to Cordonia, they kind of stopped talking to each other but they were still considered friends despite that.
"Man.. How has it been?" Mikaylyn ask as looking at Sumi.
"I think.. like a year or two?" Sumi answered.
"Wait about what?" Zig asked.
Mikaylyn sigh then takes a deep breath.
"Me and Sumi used to know Will actually. He is still our friend but when he moved to Cordonia, it kind of changed and we all stopped talking to each other." Mikaylyn explains.
Zig wrapped an arm around Mikaylyn's waist and gives her a reassuring smile. He then talks to Mikaylyn his sweet tone as looking into her eyes while holding her hand rubbing it with his thumb as he tighten her waist a little bit.
"I'm sure he still remembers you or us since Will met me before but look Mikay... It will be okay amor just remember he still is the same annoying man we knew." Zig says in an amusement trying to light up Mikaylyn's mood by saying his banter jokes about Will. It worked though, Mikaylyn chuckled a little and smiled then looks at Zig smiling.
"Yeah... You're right Zig.. I have nothing to worry.." Mikaylyn says in her normal tone that everyone knows her for.
Zig nods his head and he softly smiles, "That's my girl." Zig says in his sweet tone.
"Hey! I got an idea! We should totally go see Cordonia." Zack says with a grin.
Everyone stared at Zack with a shock, surprise and disbelief look on their faces. Like they think what Zack just said was either a stupid idea or is he actually crazy. The slience tells it all then a few minutes later Becca speaks up first.
"Uhm. I think you are insane or double insane because huh?!" Becca says in her reaction of confused and conflict with disappointed facial expression.
"For once, seconded because you know we are literally asking for a death wish and seeing a king and his people or friends that are literally well known everywhere!" Tyler says.
"Okay. but Mikaylyn is famous and she has no problem with it." Zack says being defensive.
Mikaylyn then spoke up, "Zack, there is a difference with being well known writer and heroes in a kingdom. I think you are crazy for going to Cordonia, like.. there's no way we'll be accepted!" Mikaylyn stated.
"Okay but like do you have any other ideas?" Zack said with a pointed look at Mikaylyn.
"Okay but at least we gotta let Will know that this is happening." Kaitlyn stated.
"I got it." Mikaylyn said as she got her phone out then texted Will.
It took a few minutes and after Mikaylyn putted her phone away, she looked at her friends and husband.
"Well.. Will said we can go to Cordonia in a week for his wedding with the king." Mikaylyn stated.
"But... is the King like going to be okay with it?.. More likely I am nervous of meeting the other members there.." Abbie says nervously.
"I meannn if I can meet the all time badass Olivia Nevrakis, that would be cool so I am down to give a kingdom a visit." Becca says in a small smirk on her face.
"Sooo am I a genius now?" Zack says grinning.
"I think this might be fun for all of us!" Chris says.
"Sure... But we never know what is going to happen so I say it'll be a experience.." James says.
"I guess we'll see each other at the airport next Wednesday?" Kaitlyn ask.
Everyone nods their head in agreement.
________________________
As time went on, the dinner was over and everyone say their good byes. They all went into their separate ways, Mikaylyn and Zig headed to their car to drive home. It only took them like ten minutes to reach home. Zig parked the car in the driveway and stopped the engine. He then unlock the car for both Zig and Mikaylyn to walk out of the car and head inside. Mikaylyn gets out of the passenger seat as Zig does the same of the driver seat. They both linked their arms together and walks towards their house. They both then walk inside their house as Mikaylyn unlock the house door with the key. The couple took their time to be ready for bed since it was almost like 8:45 Pm at this time. When they finished getting ready for bed, they both hopped onto the bed and were now cuddling for a little while as talking to each other.
"What do you think about Cordonia and I mean be totally honest with me.." Mikaylyn spoke as holding onto Zig as looking at him.
"My honest opinion? I think it'll look beautiful and fancy." Zig answers.
Mikaylyn chuckled to Zig's answer.
"Of course hehe, I did not expect a different answer." Mikaylyn said smiling at Zig.
"Okay but babygirl think about this, I mean we are literally going to meet Will's future husband and his other friends there. It's like, we are meeting celebrities basically-" Zig said in his normal tone of reaction but bit shocking.
"Okay fair but you kind of know Liam but we have not met like you know everyone else like... Drake, Maxwell, Hana and Olivia." Mikaylyn stated.
"But we should see how this goes for all of us eh?" Mikaylyn added.
"Mhm but well we should sleep amor.." Zig says.
"Yeah alright.. Good night Mi querido esposo." Mikaylyn grins as she gives Zig one last kiss.
Zig grinned back at Mikaylyn and responded, "Good night Mi amada esposa." Zig kissed Mikaylyn's lips softly before laying down on the bed with his arms wrapped around Mikaylyn.
Mikaylyn wrapped her arm around Zig's neck and falling asleep in his embrace. Zig does the same as he leans in closer pressed his side on Mikaylyn's peacefully now sleeping.
__________________________________
Time Skip: A Week Later At The Airport
Mikaylyn, Zig and their friends all met up in the airport with their bags packed, they all did the security gate and together as a group. When they went through the security, they all go walk together. Mikaylyn and Zig are holding hands, Abbie and James are holding hands as well while everyone else just talk and walk side by side.
"Okay.. so what number was our gate again?.." Sumi ask.
"I think.. Gate 9?" Tyler answers.
"Actually um.. Will texted me yesterday and told me that.. Liam was nice enough to helps us by getting into his private plane.." Mikaylyn stated.
Everyone stopped in their tracks and looked at Mikaylyn, even Zig who is still holding her hand was even shocked.
"I'm sorry. Did you just say... PRIVATE?!" Zack shouts in shock.
"Zack!!" Mikaylyn tried to calm him down.
"Wait.. Are you serious?.." Becca and James both ask at the same time in their shock tone.
Mikaylyn showed everyone her phone of the text message from Will. Everyone was stunned to speak.
"Okay.. This is already scaring me.." Kaitlyn says.
"Uh girl? You mean this is great!!" Becca says.
"I never thought we would go in a private plane.. the only fancy good thing is first class and I always did not want to take first class-" Zig said in shock tone.
"Well... Let's go enjoy the hell out of it!" Abbie says.
Everyone nods their heads and agrees by cheering
_______________________
The group all spent their time just doing last minute things on their phones and and devices before they all head to the airplane as walking towards the private plane gate. As soon everyone sees the plane in front of them they all stopped and looks at them with their mouth dropped.
"Okay.. Will was not joking.." James stated.
"I still can't believe that this is real.." Tyler says.
"Seconded.." Chris added.
"Well let's go guys!" Zack said excitingly as going into the plane first.
Everyone stared at each other then all head inside the plan one by one. They all taken their seats and waited for the take off. The whole plane trip was kind of fun since a lot of things to eat and drink including good signal as well so everyone could go on their phones if they needed to. Zack and Tyler were playing video games on their switches. Becca was reading a magazine as Kaitlyn was listening to music. Sumi is drawing while Chris was reading a book. Abbie and James were cuddling in their seats taking a nap. Mikaylyn and Zig were holding onto each other as looking through the window while drinking some soda.
"I never seen the ocean this big since the last time we traveled after Japan.." Mikaylyn stated.
"Yeah me either.. I never thought Cordonia would change my opinion of that besides Japan..' Zig adds.
The rest of the flight was more smoothing than what everyone thought. It was also kind of an over night flight so everyone fell asleep in the plane on their seats as the sun went down.
The next day though, the plane was landing in the Cordonia's private space for the plane to land, The gang realized that they made it to Cordonia.. One by one everyone gets up and walk out of the plane carefully to not bump into each other. As everyone walks out of the place. They all admire Cordonia and how beautiful the kingdom looks.
"This is it..." Mikaylyn says as she held ZIg's hand.
@choicesficwriterscreations
#the freshman series#choices fanfic#pixelberry#the freshman mc#choices game#play choices#zigortega#zig x mikaylyn#choices#choices stories you play#the royal romance#chris powell#james ashton#kaitlyn liao#playchoices fanfic#choices fic writers creations
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Hey, I wonder what it would look like if Liam gave Riley permission to hook up with someone one last time at their party in Las Vegas, and Riley asked Liam to sleep together. It would be very interesting, because PB does not have that option.
Thank you so much for this ask @busywoman! Fun fact: when I first joined the fandom, there was a story of the Vegas fling taking place between MC and her chosen LI (Drake).
*Sighs nostalgically* That was a good story.
This one, probably not so much but here’s hoping you enjoy it! Using my Timing Liam x Riley (The Otters/Baby Riam) for this drabble and including an answer to your previous ask regarding a lighter, happier proposal for them.
Also using @choicesflashfics Week #20 prompt #1: “The word ‘love’ doesn’t even begin to scratch the surface of what I feel for you.” It will appear in bold.
No one’s eyes but mine have looked this over, so pretty please excuse any and all typos, missing/extraneous words, and/or grammatical errors. MS Editor rates this story as 99% error free.
All characters belong to Pixelberry.
Song Inspo: Love You, flowerovlove
Word Count: 1,346
Pairing: Liam x Riley
Rating T for Teen (No triggers, just a couple of curse words and if you sniff really long and very deeply, you may catch a whiff of lemon)
Las Vegas, Nevada
“Is there anything else you desire, my love?” King Liam of Cordonia loudly asked over the blaring music as he helped his fiancée down from the tabletop they had just danced upon.
Riley Brooks did not answer as she concentrated on placing her foot, shod in strappy sandals with too-high heels, firmly on the ground.
“Food? Drink?” The royal persisted.
“Damnit, Liam! I am trying NOT to die here!” Riley snapped, annoyance and fear lacing her voice.
The King’s fiancée was scared of heights, but more than that, she had a fear of falling. Both were a very real possibility when the tables were a good four feet tall. The last thing Riley needed was to faceplant and suffer a head injury, broken bones, or worse.
The couple were in Las Vegas with their friends and members of Court to celebrate their engagement. Liam had insisted they have a stag and doe party because he could not bear another moment not being by Riley’s side.
Riley didn’t mind; she had tagged along with Madeleine on her bachelorette party and had crashed Liam’s bachelor party during the Engagement Tour. With none other than Drake Walker aka Agent Marshmallow. She had been so disappointed when Drake didn’t beat the hell out of Bertrand, but even more regretful at having to leave behind a plate of steaks.
During their stay, the couple had taken in the sights of Las Vegas, gambled at a casino where Riley lost $2,000 dollars but won $89 dollars and a coupon to the gaming house’s early bird lunch special, valid only Sundays through Thursdays. There had been a magic show, a scavenger hunt, and a night at the hottest club in town. Tonight was the last of festivities; the entourage was flying back to Cordonia in the morning.
Liam pulled her into a protective embrace once she was safely on solid ground, pressing a wet kiss against her temple. “You’re safe, love. I’m here to protect you.”
Riley briefly closed her eyes as she laid her forehead against the crook of his shoulder. The touch of Lim’s strong arms around her never failed to fill her very being with a feeling of safety, of warmth.
“There is one more thing that would make this entire trip absolutely perfect.” She pulled away from Liam ever-so-slightly so she could look him in his eyes.
“And what would that be?” he asked with a tipsy smile.
“I wanna have a fling!” she said excitedly.
Liam’s arms dropped quickly away from her body; his face was ashen-colored, and his expression was one of stupefied disbelief.
“WHAT?” he yelled.
“What? This is MY party! You’ve already had one! Besides, we’re in Sin City. Debauchery is expected, Liam!”
“With WHO?”
“Whom,” Riley corrected as her eyes scanned the hotel rooftop.
Liam stared at the woman he loved more than life itself. This had to be a joke. Why accept his proposal if she still wanted another?
“Lady Riley Brooks, would you make me the happiest man in the world and do me the honor of being my wife?” Liam asked as he knelt on one knee.
Riley looked down at Liam and the diamond ring nestled in the crushed black velvet box, then up at the Statue of Liberty before answering.
“Okay.”
Liam’s brow knitted, and confusion filled his eyes. “That … is not quite the reaction I was expecting.”
Riley stared at him, realization dawning on her face. “Oh … OOOHHHH. Hold on!”
She batted her lashes and pressed one of her palms over her heart. In a simpering, affected voice, she threw her head back and shouted, “YES, LIAM! YES! A THOUSAND TIMES, YES!”
She looked down at Liam when she was finished. “Better?”
The King rolled his eyes. “Let me just put the ring on your finger, please.”
Perhaps it was revenge of some sort because of the Coronation night disaster which resulted in him betrothed to Countess Madeleine. Riley’s hurt and anger had been palatable; the therapy he had suggested they both take part in had exacerbated the emotions.
What’s good for the goose is good for the gander.
Swallowing heavily over the sudden lump in his throat, Liam spoke softly. “I promised to never deny you anything. You can have your fling. All I ask is that you never mention it to me. What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas. And tomorrow morning, you are MINE. ALL MINE for all eternity.”
His lips snatched hers in a searingly passionate kiss before he turned away, disappearing into the crowd. Riley watched him walk away; his gait was stiff and his shoulders slightly slumped. She shrugged before turning in the opposite direction.
Liam made his way to the bar where he ordered a double scotch on the rocks. He swiveled his chair seat around so he could have a better look at which one of his “friends” would soon be fucking his fiancée. Jealousy, frustration, sadness, and hurt flowed through his body.
She said she had forgiven him.
She said his was the greatest love she had ever known.
His dark brown eyes traveled slowly over the crowd: Drake, Leo, Max, Rashad were still in attendance; they were surrounded by Duchess Olivia and Countess Madeleine. They all had drinks in hand, and guffawing loudly at a story Leo was telling.
Penelope and Kiara were holding plates of food, eating while swaying to the DJ’s remix of an American rap song.
He did not see Riley.
Liam turned at feeling a tapping on his shoulder. His eyes widened at seeing Riley. She had a plate filled with buffalo wings and engagement cake.
“Hey!” she greeted as if she hadn’t just asked her intended for permission to have sex with someone else.
“No one took you up on you offer?” he huffed as he turned away from her.
Riley looked confused. “What offer?”
“YOU ASKED ME FOR A FLING!”
Riley bit into a wing, crossing her eyes at how delicious it was.
“Yeah, I asked YOU, idiot! I don’t need your permission to have sex with someone else, and I certainly wouldn’t tell you. Too much transparency is not a good thing.”
Liam faced his fiancée. “Do you want someone else?” he asked as he reached for a piece of chicken.
Riley slapped his hand away. “No. I’m in love with you, Liam. The word ‘love’ doesn’t even begin to scratch the surface of what I feel for you.”
She turned to face him, red dots of sauce speckling her lips. “You’re more than enough.”
The relief Liam felt filled his face. “Thank God.”
He tried again to snatch a wing; Riley let him have one.
“But why all the cloak and dagger? You know you need only say what you want.”
He bit into the chicken, his eyes widening in surprise. “These are good!” He attempted to snag another piece but pulled his hand away upon seeing Riley’s arched eyebrow.
“Because I wanted food first! If I told you the fling was with you, I would’ve missed out on these wings! And I may want some pancakes when I get back to my room. A girl gotta eat, Liam!”
Liam leaned into her, his lips brushing against the skin of her neck. “I have a much better way of satisfying your appetites, love.”
Riley giggled when his breath tickled her flesh. “Does it involve pancakes?”
“What about syrup?” he questioned in a husky whisper against her earlobe as his fingers walked up her fabric-covered thigh.
The tip of Riley’s tongue licked her upper lip. “You’re gonna have to do better than that. I’m giving up buffalo wings, cake, and pancakes!” she moaned.
She felt his hand pushing to get between her legs, and she shifted slightly in her seat to allow him access.
“Chocolate syrup,” Liam clarified while his fingertip rubbed slowly against the crotch of her panties.
“Let’s go! The night isn’t getting any younger!” Riley was out of her chair and halfway to the elevator with Liam close on her heels.
“DON’T FORGET MY PLATE!"
A/N: Not sure if anyone will see this because it is 3:16am and tags are super wonky, not formatting, and I have a head cold; so giving up the ghost here. If you see it and read it, hope you enjoy it!
@jared2612 @ao719 @marietrinmimi @queenjilian @indiacater @kingliam2019 @bebepac @liamxs-world @mom2000aggie @liamrhysstalker2020 @neotericthemis @twinkleallnight @umccall71 @superharriet @busywoman @gabesmommie1130 @tessa-liam @beezm @gardeningourmett @lovingchoices14 @mainstreetreader @angelasscribbles @lady-calypso @emkay512 @princessleac1 @charlotteg234 @queenrileyrose @alj4890 @yourfavaquarius111 @motorcitymademadame @queenmiarys @choicesficwriterscreations @burnsoslow
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Murder at Vista Heights Chapter 1
Series: Law’s End
Episode 1: Murder at Vista Heights
Fandom: The Royal Romance (loosely, there’s not much canon in here. I've just borrowed the names).
Pairings: None yet
Word Count: 2,524
Rating: MA
Warnings for series: adult themes, any given chapter may contain murder, violence, language, drinking, drug use, etc.
A/N: Thanks to @harleybeaumont and @karahalloway for prereading and bouncing ideas with me.
“Riley! Riley! Come here!”
Riley Brook’s head jerked up from the keyboard she’d been furiously typing on, her lush auburn brown curls bouncing freely, her deep emerald eyes wide. Her gaze darted from the source of the interruption, who was standing on the other side of the room waving his arms at her, to the coworker sitting at the desk across from her who looked completely disinterested as he lifted a shoulder and brought a sandwich to his mouth, lettuce and mayonnaise falling onto his desk.
Gross. That’s what the break room was for.
She carefully closed the lid of her laptop before walking across the newsroom. Goddamn if she was going to let any of these vultures scoop her story or copy her work.
“What’s up, Max?” she asked as she approached the over-exuberant freelance photographer who often hung around the office.
His cobalt blue eyes sparkled with excitement as he ran a hand through his short, russet brown waves and practically danced in place, “You told me to tell you if anything interesting came across the police scanner!”
Riley grabbed his arm, her fingers sinking in almost painfully as she glanced around the newsroom in panic. Dragging him into the empty breakroom, she glared at him, “Keep it down! It’s not a scoop if everyone knows!”
“Sorry! Sorry!” He lowered his voice and leaned closer to her, “The seventh precinct was just called out to investigate a homicide!”
“The seventh precinct?” Her eyes widened, “That’s Liam’s beat! Did you get the address?”
“Of course!” He dangled the keys to his midnight blue Chevy Tahoe in front of her, “We can take my car!”
She deftly swiped the keys right out of his hand, “Fine. But I’m driving!”
“But-“ he tried to protest but she was already striding for the door. He quickly gathered his equipment bag and stumbled after her.
Sliding into the passenger seat of his own vehicle, he glanced over at the woman in the driver’s seat, “It’s my car, Riley…”
“Don’t be a baby,” she admonished him as she put the car in gear and flew out of the parking garage, “Besides, I like to be in control.”
“Yeah….” His eyes tracked across her face then dipped down her body, a flush creeping across his cheeks before he turned toward the window, “Just try not to sideswipe anyone this time.”
“That wasn’t my fault!”
“Which time?”
“Any of them!”
Max wrapped his hand around the grab handle above the window and held on for dear life as the Tahoe careened around a corner, “You know the murder victim isn’t going anywhere, right?”
“I want to get there before that asshole Neville! He’s not scooping me again!”
“Okay….” Max squeezed his eyes shut and said a quick prayer as his vehicle jolted over a curb.
The Tahoe skidded to a stop in front of the Vista Heights apartment complex. Riley hopped out and made a beeline for the crime scene.
“Are we really going to just leave her in the middle of the street like that?” Max yelled after her.
Riley answered him over her shoulder without slowing down, “No one’s going to tow it right now. The cops have bigger fish to fry. Come on!”
He hesitated only briefly before grabbing his camera and scurrying after her. He glanced back at the SUV doubtfully, but the sight of Riley’s retreating back spurred him on. He could always bail out a towed vehicle. Riley never waited for anyone or anything.
He kind of liked that about her.
By the time he caught up to her, she was leaning over the caution tape as she tried to get anyone’s attention, “Excuse me? Excuse me?”
“Stay behind the tape!” a uniformed officer yelled at her.
“I know that…” she muttered as her eyes scanned the area until she spotted a familiar face, “Liam! Liam!”
Detective Liam Rys turned his gaze toward the crowd as a voice he knew all too well screamed his name. Shaking his head, he strode over to the caution tape with his lips pressed firmly together, “I’m at work, Miss Brooks. How can I help you?”
“Sorry, detective,” she gave him a look that was half repentant and half teasing, “I was wondering if I could get a comment, or at least the name of the victim.”
“You know better than that, Riley. This is an active crime scene.” There was a slight edge in his voice as his eyes flicked over her shoulder to take in Max as well, “You both need to get out of here. Wait for the press release, like everyone else.”
Riley tipped her head back to look up into his face. At five foot seven, she was tall for a woman, but he had a couple of inches on her. The tailored suit he was wearing fit him perfectly and gave away his family background of wealth and privilege. He wasn’t buying Armani suits on a detective’s salary. His raven hair was cut short, not quite military short, but close. His onyx eyes held several emotions, the primary of which was annoyance.
“Are you still mad?”
“I was never mad, Riley,” he glanced at Max then leaned forward so only she could hear him. His breath tickled her ear, “But fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice, shame on me. I’m not falling for your tricks a second time.”
Goose bumps cascaded down her spine at the memory, “It wasn’t a trick, Liam.”
“Hm,” he pulled back with a smirk, “Right. That’s why my case ended up on the front page of the Cordonia City Ledger the next day.”
“Coincidence.”
“I don’t believe in coincidences so move along.”
“But-“ she watched his retreating back with a frustrated exhale.
Max’s gaze swung from Riley to Liam then back again, “Whatever happened between the two of you anyway?”
Riley shrugged, “Nothing that wasn’t mutually beneficial.”
“Meaning?”
“Meaning none of your business!”
“I was just-“
“Max, look!” she punched him in the arm as the body was wheeled out and loaded into the back of an ambulance.
Max brought the Canon EOS Rebel up and started clicking furiously.
Riley’s eyes swept around the crime scene, looking for anything that would help her identify the victim.
“Well, well, well, what do we have here? If it isn’t the scruffy underdog and her mangy sidekick.” The voice was like nails on a chalkboard.
Riley turned with disdain toward the biggest pain in her ass. Neville VanCoeur, the highest-ranking journalist at their rival publication, The Cordonia City Herald. He had curly, dirty blonde hair that he kept gelled so thickly to his head a hurricane wouldn’t move it an inch. His face was fixed in a permanent sneer unless he was on camera, and he’d had it out for her since day one.
Probably because she’d turned down both his sexual advances and his job offer. “Scruffy underdog isn’t the insult you think it is, Johnny Bravo.”
Max erupted into gales of laughter as Neville stiffened, “Who is Johny Bravo?” he sneered, making Max laugh even harder.
“Your long-lost twin, ass wipe,” Riley smirked at him before turning her back to scan the crowd, looking for a neighbor that might talk.
Neville’s response was lost as Riley made her way through the throng of onlookers, hoping for anyone that knew which apartment the murder had occurred in. No one knew anything.
She stomped her foot on the ground in frustration as her eyes fell on the spot the ambulance had been. “Hey, Max, I have an idea!”
Max listened and a mischievous grin spread across his face, “I’m on it!”
He quickly found Neville’s photographer and sidled up to him, “Dude! There’s a delivery entrance open around back! I got some amazing shots!”
“Really?”
“Really!”
The man’s eyes narrowed in suspicion, “Why would you tell me this?”
“Oh, am I not supposed to?” Max acted startled, “I’m new at this. I thought we all helped each other out like that! Isn’t that how it works?”
“Sure, kid. That’s how we do it,” the guy gloated, “Thanks for the tip!”
Max watched the photographer whisper to Neville who looked gleefully around before sneaking around the parking lot to the back of the building. He gave Riley a thumbs up.
Riley waited for Max’s signal, then found a uniformed police officer, “I’m sorry to interrupt but I just saw that reporter go around back. Aren’t they supposed to stay on this side of the caution tape?”
“Yes,” the man was obviously annoyed, “Thank you ma’am, we’ll take care of it.”
“Any time, officer,” she smiled disarmingly at him.
Riley and Max ran back to the Tahoe, giggling the whole way.
“That should keep him busy for a while!” She laughed as she climbed back into the driver’s seat.
“So, we can get to the coroner’s office first, I presume?”
“Of course!” She started the car and threw it in reverse.
“Be careful with Estelle!” Max yelled at her as the car went up onto the sidewalk.
“Sorry, sorry!” She put it in drive and made her way carefully away from the crime scene. Curbs were one thing, she didn’t want to hit a pedestrian, and the street was now full of onlookers.
They drove in silence until they were clear of the crowd. Max relaxed into his seat with relief, but it was short lived as Riley gunned it the moment they were back on open road.
“Jesus, Riley! I want to get to the coroner’s office as a photographer, not a body!”
“Have I ever killed you before?”
“No…but there’s a first time for everything!”
Riley was quiet for a moment, then her tone turned serious, “Can I ask you something?”
Max’s face lit up at what he thought was a change of subject, “Sure Riley, you can ask me anything!”
“So, I’ve been wondering….Why did you name your car Estelle? That’s an old lady’s name, isn’t it?” She took her eyes briefly from the road as he answered.
Max gave her a flirty wink, “I like older women.”
Riley rolled her eyes as she returned them to the road, “Grandma old?”
Max’s face fell, “No…no, that’s not what I meant!”
“How old are you, Max? Twenty? Twenty-one?”
“I’m twenty-three, Riley. I’m a grown ass man.”
“Sure you are.”
“I’m only five years younger than you, you know.”
“Only,” she snorted, “Five years is an entire college career and then some.”
Max let out a frustrated exhale as he shifted in his seat, “Whatever.”
They pulled up in front of a small, nondescript building situated behind a UPS hub and across from a warehouse in the industrial district. It was a squat, one story structure made of faded brown brick with a row of tiny windows stretched across the front and a red windowless door in the middle. Actually, the door was just off center, a detail made her want to knock it down with a wrecking ball.
“This building is depressing,” Max muttered as he climbed out of the Tahoe.
“You always say that.”
“It’s always true!”
“Considering what it is, that seems appropriate,” Riley responded as she made her way into the building and down the hall to the morgue, bypassing the reception desk which was thankfully empty.
“Come in!” a voice called in response to her knock.
“Hey, Dr. Lee!” Riley greeted the woman with the lab coat.
“I told you to call me Hana,” the doctor was shorter than Riley, with warm caramel colored hair falling to her shoulders, deep brown eyes and an upturned nose.
“Sorry…Hana…I was wondering if you knew anything about the murder at the Vista Heights apartment complex earlier today.”
“Just brought him in,” Hana swept her hand toward the body on the table, “the cause of death seems obvious, but you never know. All homicide victims are autopsied, as you know.”
“Who is he?” Riley craned her neck trying to get a better look. The man on the table looked to be in his mid to late forties with jet-black hair and sharp features.
Max hung back near the door. He had no desire to see the dead body.
“You know I can’t tell you that,” Hana admonished.
“I know. I’m sorry,” Riley shot Max a meaningful look, her eyes darting from his to a manila folder laying on Hana’s desk, before stepping closer to the other woman. With a slight pout, she reached out and rubbed a hand down her upper arm, “Forgive me?”
Hana flushed slightly as a shy smile spread across her face, “It’s fine, I know you’re just doing your job.”
“And you’re just doing yours. I respect that.” Riley’s eyes flicked over Hana’s shoulder as Max closed the folder and gave her a thumbs up. “You said the cause of death was obvious?”
Hana hesitated, “I really shouldn’t say…”
“I promise to keep your name out of it.”
“I mean…it’s going to be out there soon enough anyway. I don’t think it’s a huge secret that gunshots were fired just prior to 911 being called. That’s all I can really say.”
“Thank you!!” Riley knew about the gunshots because Max had heard that much on the police scanner. It was nice to have confirmation though. “We’ll let you get back to work!”
“Riley?”
She paused on her way to the door, “Yeah?”
“Are you going to be at the bar later?”
“The Beat?”
“Yeah, that’s the one.”
“Of course!” she grinned, “There’s been a murder! Where else would I be but the bar all the cops hang out at?”
“Okay, maybe I’ll see you there.”
“That would be awesome!” Riley gave her a wave then exited the room. The moment they were back in the car, Riley turned to Max and demanded, “Well?”
“Well, the victim’s name was Trenton Hayes, he was shot dead in his apartment.”
“Trenton Hayes…Trenton Hayes…” she searched her memory, “Isn’t he some kind of wall street tycoon?”
“Yeah, I don’t really keep up with that type of stuff.”
“Really?” Surprise pulled through her, “You’re a Beaumont.”
“Not a very good one,” he laughed humorlessly, “My contribution to the family empire consists of spending the money…”
“Okay….” She didn’t know what to say to that. She smacked him on the shoulder as she drove, “Well, look the guy up!”
“I am!” He swatted her hand away as he typed into his phone, “Oh, shit! I’ve seen this guy before!”
“Really? Where?”
“I took pictures of him for this PI I work with sometimes.”
“What? Why?”
Max shrugged, “I don’t know. He pays me to take photos sometimes, or hack into shit. I wasn’t following the guy; I was following the woman he met with!”
“Who was the woman?”
“Katie Sloan.”
“Wait! The wife of William Sloan? As in, the head of Sloan Enterprises?”
“Yeah, that’s the one!”
“Holy fucking shit! Who is this PI? We’re going to talk to him right now!”
“Walker and Son Investigations, it’s on Canal Street.”
“Hold on!” She yelled as she yanked the wheel and skidded into a U-turn, “Canal Street, here we come!”
#trr au#writeblr#maxwell beaumont#liam rys#drake walker#riley brooks#trr fandom#trr fanfic#the royal romance#no canon#choices fic writers creations#cfwc fics of the week#trr au fanfic#crime drama#angelasscribbles#Law's End#laws end#cordonia city
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Turning the Page
Now and Then
- Chapter 9-
Choices, The Royal Romance, AU
Series Premise: As Riley Brooks journeys through life as a single parent in New York City, an epiphany strikes as she contemplates the future for herself and her two-year-old son.
Turning the Page Series Masterlist
Main Pairing: Liam Rys x F!OC Riley Brooks
All characters belong to Pixelberry Studios, except William Brooks (Rys) and Matteo Magro, who belongs to this series.
Category: On-going series, contains angst/fluff/depression. Cross-over fic with Choices, Perfect Match.
Rating: M🔞Warnings - Series will contain crude language, NSFW material – not Beta’d - please excuse all errors.
Words: 2498
Now and Then – 9
Chapter Summary: Riley and William arrive in Cordonia
Title & Music Inspiration:
Now and Then, The Beatles
When You Love Someone, Gretchen Peters, Bryan Adams
Wherever You Will Go, The Calling
A/N1: In this alternate universe, after King Constantine orchestrates two individual scandals to humiliate and entrap Riley Brooks and Olivia Nevrakis in shame, Madeleine Amaranth secures her position as the Queen of Cordonia. Riley, as the King’s mistress and Olivia, in self-imposed exile. Tariq is never found.
A/N2: My submission for @choicesflashfics, Week#67, prompt #1 - “Nothing could ever change how I feel about you.”
A/N3: My submission for @choicesjanuary2024, prompt Day 25 - ‘Remembrance’ #choices monthly challenge @lilyoffandoms #choicesjanuary2024
A/N4: Damien Nazario has been assigned as William’s personal bodyguard.
In Flight, Cordonian Royal Jet, above the Mediterranean Sea
Looking out over the vast expanse of water below her, and under the clear blue skies above the Mediterranean Sea, no clouds were in sight ... not a white cloud, nor a black cloud.
Riley gazed out the large passenger window of the private jet, in solace, with her memories. Everything felt calm; almost too calm. The flight from New York to Cordonia was eight hours in duration, and even though they left early in the morning, they would not arrive at the palace until late in the evening with the change in time zones.
Trying to and not getting any rest, her thoughts returned to the events over the holidays.
...Remembering when Liam arrived at her door, in New York on Christmas Eve, a short week ago. The expression of elation on his face as she opened the door for him...
[‘Hello, my love,’ he tenderly smiled; He was standing there with an exquisite bouquet of long-stemmed red roses, as uniformed delivery drivers from the toy store waited patiently at a distance behind him, as the Royal guard performed a security check.
Liam stepped over the threshold, leaning down to draw her in for a kiss on the cheek, as she accepted his gift. ‘Oh Li, these are gorgeous; thank you so much.’
At Bastien’s prompt, the delivery people entered the brownstone with prewrapped gifts and placed them under the Christmas tree, also filling the extra space in the living room very quickly.
Chuckling, Riley watched as Liam thanked them with a generous tip, as he closed the door after them.
“Our son will be so thrilled at what Santa brought him; wait till he wakes up tomorrow.”
Liam laughed, moving quickly to put his arm around her, pulling her to his side. “Who says all these gifts are just for him? Hmmm?” Riley turned her head towards him, as Liam bent to capture her lips in a passion-fueled kiss.
“Ah yes, your gift is right here.” Liam slipped his hand inside his coat to reveal a small box, wrapped in gold with a red ribbon. “This is for you.”}
Riley breathed out, shaking her head.
...Remembering wanting him so badly that evening ...as he kissed her forehead to say ‘good night’ before turning to the guest room; Leaving her feeling so confused, once again.
...Remembering how excited LiLi was when he saw his father again Christmas morning ... and the look of pure joy in Liam’s expression as he watched his son blissfully playing with his new toys.
...Remembering the look of adoration between Liam and his son; a private and sacred bond established between the two ... a bond only meant for them.
Riley looked down at her phone and smiled fondly at the picture of William. He was proudly standing beside his gingerbread house gift for Liam, alongside Daniel and Matteo, to smile at the camera. Riley marveled at how unequivocally her son loved his father, so quickly. As if two loose puzzle pieces finally clicked into place. There was never a doubt in her mind that William needed to be wherever his father was. The connection between father and son was undeniable.
...and with those thoughts, she agreed to return to Cordonia.
And now, she found herself on the Royal jet headed back, leaving behind her New York world for the place that shattered her ‘happily ever after,’ again.
Liam, being the new, ever-doting father was pointing out to his son the shores of Cordonia through the window. She saw the look of marvel in Liam’s eyes, as he watched his son’s reaction to seeing Cordonia for the very first time. They were sitting in seats across the aisle from her as she glanced over.
Catching Riley’s eye, Liam responded with a wink and a smile.
"Welcome home, love."
Riley smiled in return, as her heart skipped a beat.
Home...
It had been a while since she had felt this way about Cordonia. Another lifetime; so much has changed, and yet remained the same.
***
Damien Nazario, the Interpol agent who was now permanently assigned to be William Rys's personal bodyguard, was reviewing the Crown prince's dossier, and his duties to the Cordonian crown, his new employer. Bastien took a seat beside the young agent to answer any questions he may have, as head of the Royal guard, at the rear of the plane's cabin.
"So, Damien, any questions for me?"
"No, sir. I believe I have a handle on the situation.”
"Good, because you are now the official head of the security detail for Prince William, the future king of Cordonia."
"Understood, sir.” Damien was well aware of the complexity of a constitutional monarchy.
"Now, there's one more thing I need to discuss with you,” Bastien eyed the young agent.
"Yes, sir?"
"Madeleine Amaranth, the former queen of Cordonia. I have forwarded her updated dossier to you."
"Yes, I've read it through.” Damien paused, waiting for more information.
"Good, because she has expressed malicious intent towards Prince William and Lady Riley, should they return to Cordonia."
"Understood. I'll ensure her movements are tracked and reported inside and out of the country, sir."
"Thank you, Damien.”
"My pleasure, sir.”
Bastien, looking pleased, leaned back in his chair, checking the time on his watch, as he felt the plane begin its descent.
Cordonia, Capital
The jet touched down smoothly on the tarmac, as the engines powered down. The cabin door opened, and the stairs were lowered.
Riley could feel the warm breeze blow past her as she stepped off the plane.
Taking a deep breath, Riley looked around. The air was different here. It was fresh and clean. She closed her eyes and let the wind brush her cheeks.
Liam followed, with William sleeping in his arms.
"Is everything alright, love?" Liam’s brows were raised in concern, noticing her hesitation.
"Yes, I'm just taking it all in." Riley, looked down, unable to keep eye contact.
"Are you sure, Riley? You've been very quiet throughout the entire flight home."
"I'm fine, Liam. It is just a lot to process. I'm just a little overwhelmed."
"All right, I understand. Let us get to the palace, so you and William can get settled and rest ... okay?"
"Yes, thank you, Liam."
Liam glanced over at Riley with concern as he personally buckled his son into the car seat. It was quite easy for him to see and feel the apprehension in her mood. She could not hide her emotions from him as well as she always thought she could.
Riley had remained noticeably quiet during the ride to the palace as well, looking out at the passing countryside. Liam could not help but wonder if she was having second thoughts about returning to Cordonia, and/or to him.
As they pulled up to the palace gates, Liam looked over at Riley, noticing a small smile on her face.
"What is it, love?" Liam spoke softly, reaching for her hand.
Riley returned his touch with a squeeze. "This place...it's beautiful."
"Thank you, that, it is. Welcome home."
“William will be so excited when he wakes up.” Riley glanced at a still sleeping William as the SUV slowed to a stop.
"I can't begin to tell you how much it means to me.... to have you both here." Liam confessed.
"You're welcome, Liam. It's the least I can do."
Liam's heart sank at her words. He hated the distance between them. He wanted to take her in his arms and make everything right, but, for right now, he knew that was not the best strategy.
He had to accept that things had changed, and their relationship was different now. He had to be patient and give Riley the space she needed.
But he also had to make her see how important she was to him. He had to show her how much he had missed her ... that he wanted a future with her and William in Cordonia.
As the SUV door opened for her, Riley felt a sense of Deja vu. This was where she had started her journey with Liam in Cordonia all those years ago. And now, here she was, back again.
"Do you want me to take you and William to the guest wing, or do you want to stay in my chambers?"
"I would like to stay with you, if that's okay."
"Of course, Riley. I would love that."
It was surreal for Riley as she walked the pristine palace halls towards the Royal Chambers. Liam carried William, who was fast asleep in his arms beside her.
The memories of the past times she was here flooded her mind and her heart ached as she pushed the painful memories aside. She took a deep breath, trying to calm her nerves.
As they reached the large double doors of the entrance to the Royal east wing, the guards opened the doors for Liam and Riley to enter.
Riley stepped inside; the same chambers where she had spent so much time before. The familiar scent of Liam's cologne filled the air, sending a wave of longing for a past time through her mind.
Walking into her room ... it was exactly as she remembered it. Everything was in its place, from the elegant chandelier hanging above the bed, to the intricate paintings adorning the walls.
Riley took a deep breath and sat down on the edge of the bed. She looked around the room, taking in every detail.
She felt a pang of sadness as she remembered those past times.
After tucking William into his bed in the adjacent room, Liam came in and sat down next to her. He gently placed his hand on hers, and she looked up at him, their eyes meeting.
"What are you thinking about Riley?"
"I'm okay, Liam. I was just thinking about how much things have changed since I was here last."
He wrapped his arm around her shoulder and held her close. "I know it's a lot, but I'm here for you, and I'll help you in any way I can," Liam whispered.
"Thank you, Liam."
He pulled away and cupped her face in his hands, staring into her eyes intently. "You're welcome, Riley. Always. Nothing could ever change how I feel about you.”
He moved in to press his lips to hers, and she melted into his kiss.
It was soft and gentle, and full of longing.
He broke the kiss and rested his forehead against hers, breathing heavily. "God, Riley, I've missed you."
"I've missed you, Li."
He leaned down and kissed her again, deeper this time.
His tongue swept across her bottom lip, and she opened her mouth to him.
Their tongues tangled together in a dance that was familiar and yet new.
They were no longer the same people they were when they had last been together. They were both older and wiser, and the passion between them burned even brighter.
Riley pulled away and put her hand on his chest, feeling his heart beating beneath her palm.
"Liam, I..."
"Shhh."
He placed a finger over her lips. "Don't say anything, Riley. Just feel."
His lips found hers again, and the world disappeared. There was nothing but the two of them, lost in each other.
She kissed him back, wrapping her arms around his neck.
She moaned into his mouth as he slid his hands down her back and pulled her closer.
He broke the kiss and buried his face in her neck, inhaling her scent.
"Riley," he breathed. "God, I want you so much."
“Liam, I ...”
Liam pulled back and looked into her eyes, “stay with me tonight.”
📌All fics & edits: @ao719 @txemrn @queenmiarys @sfb123 @twinkleallnight @alj4890 @differenttyphoonwerewolf @harleybeaumont @busywoman @karahalloway @kingliam2019 @imjusthereforliam @lovingchoices14 @kyra75 @tinkie1973 @emkay512 @malblk21 @kristinamae093 @charlotteg234
📌Liam x Riley, OC: @emersyn-in-cordonia @mainstreetreader @belencha77 @walkerdrakewalker @iluaaa @mysticalfangirl @queenwalton @bascmve01 @umccall71 @choicesfrog @amandablink @ownworldresident
📌Submissions: @choicesficwriterscreations @choicesflashfics @choicesjanuary2024
#tessa liam writes#liam rys#the royal romance#riley brooks#trr#king liam#trr fanfic#king liam rys#trr liam x OC#choices fandom#choices the royal romance#choices fic writers creations#choices flashfics#@choicesjanuary2024#choices monthly challenge#turning the page
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…Sometimes Not (Part 2)
Left To Chance
This is a submission for @choicesflashfics, using prompt #1, “I don’t have a date, so would you … maybe want to be my plus one?”
Song inspo: Chasing All The Stars - Fleurie
A/N: This is an au mini series to my Always You series. This part is a flashback to the first half of the three years apart from Reyna’s POV. Not beta’d. Please excuse any errors.
Book/Pairing: TRR; Liam x OC (Reyna)
Rating: T • Warnings: None but some mild language.
Word count: 2500
Catch up here
Staring out the window of her high-rise office, Reyna tapped her pen against the desk in rhythm with the ticking clock on the wall. The law firm had been unusually quiet the past few days with everyone but her, a couple of interns, and the office secretary gone for the week.
The firm’s lawyers and paralegals were attending an international conference in Paris. It was a work trip that Reyna’s boss, Luca, had invited her to join them on, but she politely declined. Her presence as the office’s financial manager was not required or needed, but that wasn’t the only reason she had turned down the free trip to the City of Light.
Their kiss.
Although Reyna enjoyed the brief moment between them, she declined Luca’s invitation to Paris because she didn’t want to send the wrong message. She still wasn’t in a place where she was ready to explore anything new with anyone because despite knowing she needed to let go, Liam was still very heavy on her mind and heart.
It had been over a month since Reyna last saw Liam the night of his coronation, the night she watched him choose the woman he’d soon be marrying. She hadn’t spoken to him since; she’d sent him a message on his birthday, a message he read but never responded to. She hadn’t tried reaching out again.
Liam was currently somewhere in Europe on his Engagement Tour and planning his upcoming nuptials.
Reyna was trying to go through the motions and deal with everything in her own way. She had been trying to move on even though most days it felt futile. She was working full-time. She was finally starting her master’s program next month after missing her first chance during her spiral. She was doing everything she could to keep herself occupied … to keep herself from falling apart like she wanted to most days.
No matter how hard she tried, though, Reyna couldn’t seem to fill that void left inside her. A piece of her was missing and it hurt like hell to try and force herself to come to terms with the reality of losing Liam, both as a friend and more.
For over a decade, Liam had been a monumental part of Reyna’s life; he was her best friend, her person, the one she told everything to, and eventually, the man she deemed to be the love of her life. Going from what they shared to absolutely nothing … it destroyed a part of her, a part of her that was just for him and no one else … a part of her that would never be the same again.
*******
•Two Months Later•
On an early Friday morning, before the sun had risen, Reyna lay awake in bed.
It was near afternoon in Cordonia … and Liam’s wedding day.
Reyna had managed to avoid any news of Liam since her return from his coronation three months ago; she refrained from doing any internet searches, and even though he spoke to Constantine a few times or more a month, her father respected her request for no updates. She didn’t want to hear about Liam and the life he was living without her. And while she still struggled every day to truly grasp the reality that he was no longer a part of her life, today was especially difficult.
It was the worst Reyna had felt in months, and that chasm in her heart left by their fallout and Liam’s absence in her life felt as though it was being ripped wide open, knowing what he would be doing that day.
As Reyna continued to toss and turn, her gaze kept shifting from the clock on her nightstand to her desk. Despite knowing it was a terrible idea, she couldn’t help but eye her laptop; she knew one little search would bring her to extended coverage of the royal wedding.
Eventually, Reyna flung the covers off herself and stood from the bed. She moved to her desk and lowered herself into the chair; she opened her laptop and pulled up the internet search bar, typing the words, ‘Cordonian royal wedding.’
Instant results popped up from multiple media sources. The first result, however, had Reyna’s stomach twisting in knots. Live coverage. She could see it happening in real time.
Reyna closed her eyes, pressing the tips of her fingers to her forehead as she let out a breath. She knew she shouldn’t because of what it would do to her. She couldn’t seem to help herself, though.
It was like she had to see it to believe it.
When she opened her eyes, Reyna clicked the link. A video popped up, buffering for a moment before footage of inside the Bossina Cathedral filled her screen. Her eyes instantly welled with tears.
There, at the front of the aisle, was Liam. Dressed in his royal regalia, he stood across from Riley, who was clad in a flowing gown of white lace … and in the middle of her vows.
Reyna listened as her tears started to fall; as painful as it was, she couldn’t look away. When Riley finished, the bishop turned to Liam as the camera panned to him. Reyna swore her heart stopped as she stared at his face on the screen, and she held her breath when she recognized the look of hesitation in his eyes … along with a glimmer of affliction.
A few silent moments later, Liam started to speak.
While Riley’s vows were straight from the book, Liam’s were slightly altered; where she’d spoken the words, “to love and to cherish,” Liam changed his. “To be a companion in life and duty.”
A companion. A friend.
It didn’t matter to Reyna what words were altered, it fucking hurt. More so when she watched him slip that ring onto her finger.
Reyna pressed her palm to her aching chest with a quiet sob. Twice now she thought she’d felt the worst of it, of her heartbreak. The first time was when Liam told her he needed to have a Social Season … that they couldn’t be together. The second was when she watched him choose someone at his coronation. But this … hearing him recite vows to someone else, watching him slip a promise in the form of a ring on another’s finger … It was at that exact moment her heart ruptured in her chest.
Reyna could physically feel it, the splintering and cracking and shattering. The death of something vital inside her.
Despite what Liam told her at his coronation, that he saw Riley as nothing more than a friend, Reyna knew what those vows and that promise would mean to him.
Liam would try to love Riley in some form. He would keep those vows and that promise because that’s just who he was. He would try and build something out of scraps in an attempt to assuage the guilt Reyna knew he would feel over not giving himself entirely.
And there was a chance in Liam’s willingness to try that he could grow to see her beyond a friend … that he could grow to truly love her. And that meant Reyna had really lost him.
A man of his word, those vows solidified it.
****
That night, Reyna sat in her room with heavy eyes and an even heavier heart. She’d spent most of the day in a daze. Her parents were with her; they let her cry as much as she wanted and tried their best to comfort her.
Constantine and Regina understood when Gideon and Catherine declined their invitation to the royal wedding. It wasn’t because they held a grudge but because they didn’t want to leave Reyna alone; when she walked out of her bedroom that morning, one look at her was precisely why.
That was a day Reyna found herself wanting to talk to Liam more than most. There were so many things she wanted to say to him, so much she wanted to tell him and vent to him about. She couldn’t and wouldn’t, but she wished she could.
Reaching for her bottle of water on her nightstand, Reyna’s eyes fell on a brown leather cover of a journal. She’d gotten it a month ago while out shopping with her Aunt Elsie. She hadn’t written in it … yet.
An idea then struck. Perhaps Reyna could tell Liam everything she wanted to. She could pour her heart and soul out to him onto blank pages, and though he’d never know or respond, maybe this could help her heal, even if only a little.
Reyna grabbed the journal and a pen from the nightstand drawer; she opened it to the first page, staring down at the blank sheet of paper for a moment as a tear rolled down her cheek.
“Dear Liam …”
*******
•Two Months Later•
Reyna stood in her office as she slipped on her coat. It was Friday and, ahead of her assignments, she was looking forward to a weekend of … nothing. Isolating herself had become her norm.
It had been five months since Reyna last spoke to Liam and while better, she was still working on trying to let go and come to terms with everything.
Writing in the journal seemed to help somewhat.
Reyna wrote to Liam almost every day. She wrote about her days. She wrote every time something reminded her of him. She wrote to reminisce and added photos to some pages. She wrote every happy and lonely thought. Some entries were long and deep and vulnerable, and she cried over the pages and words he’d never read; others were short, a mere sentence, a simple, “I really missed you today.”
It wasn’t what Reyna wanted, but it was all she could have.
As she grabbed her purse off the back of her chair, a knock on her office door pulled Reyna’s attention; she glanced up to see Luca. “Hey,” she smiled.
“Hi,” Luca grinned. “I know you’re getting ready to head out, but, uh …” He trailed off, letting out a breath. “You know the gala my father is hosting for his firm tomorrow night?”
“Yeah,” Reyna smiled. “My parents are going.”
Luca nodded. “I know this is last minute, but I wanted to ask … I don’t have a date, so would you … maybe want to be my plus one?”
Reyna stared at Luca for a moment. She’d turned him down for a date months ago because she wasn’t ready; he’d told her that if and when she was, he’d be there. They had shared that kiss a month or so later, but nothing since.
Although Reyna was still healing, would it be so bad to put herself back out there? To take that first step in really moving forward? He was only asking for one date.
“I know you said a while back that you weren’t in a headspace for dating, and if that’s still the case, I completely under—”
“I’d love to,” Reyna interrupted.
Luca beamed. “Really?”
“Yeah,” Reyna softly smiled. “Really.”
*******
•Four Months Later•
Luca slipped an arm around Reyna’s waist as they walked out of the restaurant after dinner one night. She glanced up at him, and he smiled as he leaned in, pulling her closer as he placed a lingering kiss on her lips.
After that first date to the gala, Reyna explained to Luca that while she enjoyed his company, she needed patience; she told him about Liam — who he had been to her, their history and relationship, her heartache, and what she went through when things ended.
Luca had been understanding, and was more than happy to give Reyna the time she needed, but four months in, he found himself falling hard for her and was ready to make things more … official.
As they walked along the pier, Luca slowed their pace to a stop; Reyna leaned against the railing, looking out at the harbor. “Can I ask you something?” Luca said, and she looked at him, nodding with a smile. “What is this?” he questioned. “With you and I, I mean …”
“I —” Reyna paused for a moment. “We … we’re dating.”
“Yes,” Luca nodded with a halfhearted smile. “What I mean is … is there a point when this will … I don’t know,” he shrugged, “take that next step into something more … serious?”
“Serious as in …?”
“As in … when we go out, I can introduce you as my girlfriend instead of just my date.”
Luca knew that what was holding Reyna back from him was the piece of her that was holding onto her past. Perhaps he was a fool for holding onto his own hope that she would eventually see what was standing right in front of her — someone willing to love her the way Liam chose not to. He was tired of the chokehold this Prince still had on her.
Luca wanted to be all in with Reyna, and he would be if she could just get out of her own damn way.
“Look,” Luca began. “I know that there’s some small part of you that’s holding onto something for him …” At his words, Reyna let out a breath, feeling that dull ache start to roil in her chest mixed with a pang of heavy guilt. “I understand what he meant to you. But regardless of choice or circumstance, you were hurt because of him. And he’s the reason that you keep putting your life on hold while he’s out there living his. Have you ever thought that maybe if you just let him go … you’d finally be able to breathe again?” She dropped his gaze, blinking back the sting in her eyes and the strike his words had hit her with. “I don’t want to upset you, Reyna. All I’m saying is that you deserve to be happy, too.”
Reyna snapped her eyes back to him. You deserve to be happy, too. It wasn’t him telling her that she deserved to be happy that had stolen the air from her lungs.
It was the ‘too.’
Liam was happy … without her. It was a truth she had yet to allow herself to accept the possibility of.
And here was Luca … forcing her to face it.
Reyna couldn’t say Luca was wrong; she was holding onto Liam. And she felt guilty because she knew Luca cared about her; he’d gone out of his way to show her since that first date. And she cared for him.
“Reyna—”
“You’re right,” Reyna interrupted as she shook her head. “I’m sorry. I …” She trailed off, letting out a breath.
Luca stepped forward; he cupped her face in his hands, forcing her gaze to his. He searched her eyes for a moment before capturing her lips in a deep kiss.
****
Later that night, Reyna sat on her bed, staring down at her journal; she’d still been writing in it almost every day.
The pen hovered over the page for a long while before Reyna finally put ink to paper.
“Dear Liam …
I have a boyfriend …”
*******
•Nine Months Later•
“This is amazing,” Reyna said as she took in the sunset at Castello di Amorosa.
Luca had planned a trip for them to Napa Valley, and one of their stops was the medieval-style Tuscan castle.
“I knew you’d love it here,” Luca said behind her.
“It’s gorgeous.”
As she stared at the castle, Reyna couldn’t help but be reminded of a certain someone. He always loved places like this, she thought to herself. And he loved good wine.
It had been a year and a half since Reyna had last seen or spoken to Liam. If someone told her just a couple of years ago where they would be now, she would have laughed in their face. Not them. Never. Yet, here they were, living two separate lives, no longer a part of each other’s. Devastated didn’t begin to describe how she still felt about it, even after all this time.
While Reyna missed everything she shared with Liam, more than anything, she missed her best friend. Not a day went by where he didn’t cross her mind at least a dozen times. She hadn’t reached out, however, and neither had he.
All she could do was hope that he was ok … and happy.
When Reyna turned back toward the vineyards, her gaze dropped to Luca; he was on one knee in front of her wearing a brilliant smile. She let out a breath, feeling her heart imperceptibly drop when he opened the box in his hands, revealing a glittering diamond ring.
“Reyna … will you marry me?”
The man kneeling before Reyna was holding his heart in his hands and asking her to take it, and the first thing that crossed her mind was not an answer … or perhaps it was.
Liam.
***************************************
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MC Mixer 2023 - H&D Party Prep
My (re)submission for @choicesmcmadness' MC Mixer, Week 2.
*Apologies for reposting - tags didn't work the first time... I swear Tumblr tags will be the death of me...
Harper Gale
What will you be wearing?
H: Ooh, probably a cute cocktail dress of some kind! While I definately lean towards comfy and practical during the day, if it's a special occaision, I do like to go all out! Especially with shoes - I love shoes! What girl doesn't? So, I'll pair the dress with some sexy heels and matching accessories. Some smoky make-up, and a spirtz of perfume, and I'm ready to go!
Do you have any rituals or other things you must do or wear?
H: Hmm... Not really. I'll probably have a shower beforehand, and maybe a quick shave to tidy myself up. I might throw on a fun party playlist to dance along to while I get ready.
Will they need a babysitter?
H: Not yet, luckily. We're a few years away from that still! 😇
How will they get there?
H: Drake will most likely drive.
Drake Walker
What will you be wearing?
D: Erm... Clothes? What kind of dumbass question is this? I'm not gonna show up to wherever it is we're going buck-ass naked, am I? ...Wait. We're going to a party? Sweet Jesus... That means I gotta wear a suit, don't I? *groans* Fine. I'll do it. Because I know Gale's gonna pull out all the stops, so it's only fair that I make some kind of effort too. But I draw the time at wearing a tie. I ain't subjecting myself to those overpriced silk nooses. Period.
Do you have any rituals or other things you must do or wear?
D: Rituals? Seriously? The hell is this? A pontification? Thought we were going to some kind of party... *shakes head* So, to answer your question, no. I don't have some kind of weird OCD routine. I'll throw on some clothes - maybe a shower and shave beforehand if I feel and I need it, and have the time - grab my phone, watch, wallet, and sidearm (because I never leave anywhere without any of those, ever), and I'm out the door.
Will they need a babysitter?
D: Like Gale said, we're a few years away from having to navigate that logistical nightmare.
How will they get there?
D: I'll drive. The Beemer most likley, but if it's close, I might trot out the bike instead. It's faster and easier to park. Plus, I know Gale secretly loves the rush of flying 'cross the city, even though she screams blue murder while we're at it.
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Betrayal: A Choices Prompt Story
Series: None, this is a one-shot and you can find those here.
Fandom: The Royal Romance
Pairing: Riley x Drake, Riley x Liam (past)
Rating: MA
Warnings for this chapter: MAJOR CHARACTER DEATH, GRIEF
Word Count: 1,529
A/N: Anyone who hasn't seen the prompt and wants to play along, go here.
My other stuff: Master List.
The cool wind pushes my hair back as I walk along the familiar path, every step taking me deeper into the past. It’s been years since I’ve been here, everything is different, everything is the same.
I’m not paying attention to the present as I walk, I’m too lost in memories of the past. That’s why I don’t notice the other person walking toward me until I hear a familiar voice call my name.
I freeze. It can’t be. What are the odds? I lift my head and my eyes dart wildly around before finally landing on a face I’d recognize anywhere, even now.
“It’s you.”
“Liam?”
His face breaks out into that grin that has always taken my breath away. “Riley!”
“How? What are you doing here?” I ask in amazement. The king of Cordonia was the last person I expected to see here, in my old stomping grounds. It’s been four years since I last set eyes on him. Since the night of his coronation. The night that my life had exploded.
He’d never tried to contact me. Bastien and his guards had ensured I made it onto a plane home. I’d been devastated, destroyed. We were supposed to get married; I had truly believed he loved me.
Suddenly I’m in his arms and I’m a mess. Everything about him is the same. His scent surrounds me, his touch sends sparks through me, the sound of his voice is still the most soothing thing I’ve ever heard. I lean my head onto his chest and cry.
“It’s ok, it’s ok.” He consoles me, “I love you, Riley. I never stopped. Why didn’t you come back?”
“What?” I step back in confusion, as I wipe the tears from my face, “Drake said you’d gotten engaged to Madeleine to protect me, that it wasn’t safe for me to come back.”
“That’s true, love.” Liam wipes a tear from my check, “But after your name was cleared, after my father died, after I sent for you….”
I shake my head back and forth in denial. I don’t know what he’s talking about. This makes no sense. “I….I don’t know what you’re talking about. You never sent for me!”
Now it’s his turn to look confused, “Yes, love, I did. I sent Drake to find you and bring you back, but he said you’d moved on.”
“No….no, that can’t be true!” Panic slices through me. Drake had lied to me? Or at least withheld information. “Drake never told me that. He….he…oh, my God!”
I clutch at my stomach as I take a seat on a nearby bench, the world suddenly spinning. He had lied to me. And I knew exactly why. “We….Drake and I….we….I thought you didn’t want me anymore Liam, and it destroyed me! Drake, he…he was there, he helped me pick up the pieces, put me back together again…..I didn’t know….I didn’t know….”
Understanding washes across his features, “So that’s why he left. That’s why he never came back to visit.”
Drake had come to visit me in New York, twice. The first time was right after the coronation, to tell me to hold onto to hope, to tell me that Liam had to fake the engagement to Madeleine. The second time was about a month later, to tell me that Liam was going to try to make his marriage to Madeleine work, for Cordonia’s sake.
Drake had returned to Cordonia but stayed in almost constant contact with me. Roughly two months later he’d moved to New York. We’d started as friends; I had leaned on him heavily. It had turned into something more. A year later we’d relocated, together, to Texas.
This was my first time back in New York since. The city looked the same, but it felt completely different now.
“He lied to me, he lied to you, he betrayed us both! Liam…I’m so sorry! I never wanted anyone but you, I swear, I thought it wasn’t safe to go back, that’s why we never have!”
Liam takes the seat next to me and wraps an arm around my shoulder, “It’s ok, I understand now. That’s what I needed. I needed to understand. Because you were the great love of my life, Riley and I never understood why you didn’t come back. Now I do and it’s ok.”
“How is this ok, Liam? He lied to me, and I married him!”
“It’s ok because he was right. It wasn’t safe. He saw that, and I didn’t. I have to believe that’s why he did it.”
“I don’t care why he did it!” I yell, “I would have been willing to risk my life to be with you!”
There are tears in his eyes as he takes my face in his hands, “It’s better this way. Otherwise, it would have been you. Tell Drake it’s ok, I understand, and I forgive him. I’m glad it wasn’t you, Riley. I’m glad you’ll have a full life, here, with Drake. That will give me peace.”
“Liam, I don’t understand.”
“You will, my love.”
He leans forward and our lips meet. His are impossibly soft, his hands glide gently across my shoulders, they run through my hair. When the kiss breaks, he leans his forehead against mine. My eyes fall shut. He whispers, “Please be happy. I love you. You were the only happiness I ever found in this world.”
I reach for him and touch air. I open my eyes and blink. Where has he gone? He is nowhere to be seen. I know I hadn’t imagined it; he was here! I can still feel his arms around me, his scent lingers in the air around me. The wind is cold now, I shiver as I wrap my arms around myself and stand. I look around frantically but he’s nowhere in sight.
When I finally stumble into our hotel room, Drake is waiting for me, anxiety clear on his face, “Riley! Where have you been?”
I shove him. “Why did you lie to me?”
“What?” He looks confused, there’s a lot of that going around today.
“Why did you lie to me?” I ask again, “Liam sent you here to take me back to him, but you didn’t! You told me he’d moved on, you lied to me!”
He steps back and his face pales, “How do you know that?”
“Liam told me!”
“Liam told you? When?” Now he looks scared. He should be.
“Just now! I saw him, he’s here, in New York!”
Drake stares at me like he’s seen a ghost as he croaks out, “Riley, that’s not possible.”
“Why not?” I demand. Liam is a world traveler. Of course he could be in New York.
“That’s what I was waiting to tell you…I….Liam and Madeleine were on their way to a charity fashion show in Paris when….Riley…” His voice breaks, “They were attacked. They’re dead. Both of them. An hour ago, in Paris!”
I shake my head, “That’s not possible, Drake, I just saw him, he was here!”
He silently thrusts his phone at me, and I take it, uncomprehendingly. I stare down at the screen, at the headline, “King and Queen of Cordonia assassinated in Paris. Sons of the Earth claim responsibility.”
“But….I don’t understand. He was here!”
“Riley, I…”
“No.” I shake my head again, “He. Was. Here!”
Drake’s arms encircle me as my knees buckle out from under me and we slide to the ground together. I gather two handfuls of fabric in my fists as I pull on his shirt. His hand strokes my hair as I bury my face in his chest and cry.
I cry like I haven’t cried since the days and weeks immediately following the coronation. I cry like my soul has been ripped from my body. I cry until I have no more tears. I cry until I’m hoarse and can make no more sounds. I cry until utter exhaustion overtakes me and I slip into a grief induced stupor.
Drake lifts me gently from the floor and places me in the bed. He climbs in behind me and pulls my body close to his own. I let him. His presence soothes me, even though I now know the magnitude of his betrayal.
Four years. That’s four years we could have had together. Four years of life, love and happiness. But then I’d be dead too. Murdered beside him.
I loved him. I love him still. I will always love him. But I’m glad to be alive and part of me feels guilty for that.
He loved me. He never abandoned me. There is both a comfort and an agony in that knowledge.
One thing I know, to the very depths of my soul, to the very core of my being, and no one will ever convince me otherwise, is that he was here! Our love was that strong. At the moment of his death, he came to me. For closure, for understanding, for solace. He came to me. He was here.
I drift off to sleep and the knowledge consoles me. He loved me. He knows I loved him. Nothing was left unsaid. He was here.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
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