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Hello lovely people, friends, followers,
I definitely meant to do this before I made a post but I got excited when I finally had finished something, so I am doing it now instead! It's been 8 months (give or take) since I really had my stories going, so I thought I would do a tag list clean-up, just to see who is still around.
TAG LIST UPDATE
I want to give a HUGE thank you to all the people that have been with me through all of the stories and musings I have told about my characters. You have made this journey that I have taken by writing for fun, something that I have never done before, so much freaking fun. Thank you, thank you, thank you!
Below the cut will be my current tag list. Please help me clean this up:
Please COMMENT on this post or MESSAGE me personally, and tell me exactly what I need to do with your tag. If you want to follow a certain story/series, don’t be afraid to tell me specifically what you want. If you’re feeling wild, request a perma tag, and I will tag you in everything. If you are not on my current list, now is the PERFECT time to request a tag!
If you want to be removed completely, there are NO HARD FEELINGS. Things change. Whatever your reason may be, I know how awkward that conversation can be. So, I’d like to make it easy for you: if you do NOT comment or send me a message, I will take that as your respectful request to be removed.
‘Likes’ on this post are sweet and appreciated, but they do NOT communicate what you want me to do with your tag. Please, please, please comment or message me.
Perma Tag List: @alexabeta @bisexualdisasteracd @kachrisberry @kat-tia801 @khoicesbyk @jerzwriter @lady-calypso @mainstreetreader @nestledonthaveone @peonierose @quixoticdreamer16 @secretaryunpaid @shewillreadyou @sfb123 @shannonwrote @shopaholic2022 @socalwriterbee @somersetmummy @txemrn
OH tags: @headoverheelsforramsey @irisofpurple
Wicked Game Tag List: @bebepac
Sam and Ana ONLY Tag List:
Robin ONLY Tag List: @harleybeaumont
TNA ONLY Tag List:
#tag list clean up#the nanny affair#choices fanfiction#choices the stories you play#choices#open heart#tna#choicestna#sam dalton#choices sam dalton
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ENVY MASTER LIST
Song inspiration
@lilyoffandoms@kingliam2019@mom2000aggie@bebepac@honey358luv@angelasscribblesribbleu
@shewillreadyou @luvquit@harlequin@queenrileyrose@yaniradolton @yolandawalker @21-wishes @karahalloway@beaumo
Book: The Royal Romance
Pairing: Liam x MC
Summary: This take place 2 years after Liam’s social season with Riley Brooks, Constantine doesn’t have cancer, and the setup neve happened, Liam is on a business trip to New York and meet 24 year old Amelia Ramos and starts a new relationship.
Liam, Drake, Constantine, Maxwell, Bastian, belong to Pixel berry
Amelia Ramos, Jennifer Lawson, Daniel Lawson, Amy Rodriguez belong to me and so do this story.
Warning: contains gun violence, some sexual content, betrayal, no suitable for anyone under 18.
I hope you enjoy please excuse any mistakes or misspelling, any questions you feel free to ask thanks to everyone who reads, comment and like.
ENVY
Chapter: 1 The Perfect Evening
Liam and Mia
Liam sits waiting on his order, “when a beautiful young lady catches his eye, his heart start to race, he gets up and walks over, “ hi I'm Liam I can't help to notice how beautiful you are, can I take you out to dinner sometime?"
Hi Liam it’s nice to meet you, “sure I would love to go out with you, you know most men don’t have the confidence that you do, “ I like it, “ I’m Amelia but everyone calls me Mia, so where are you from?” I think you have a beautiful accent?
He smiles, “ you probably not going to believe me, “ I’m a prince of a small country called Cordonia it’s near Greece.
"I believe you, “ so what brings you all the way to New York?
It’s a business trip, my father supposed to came but he let me come instead.
"I understand, “
"So how long are you in town for? "I’ll be here till Friday, I would love to get to know you better,
“ I would love that but if you're leaving how would that work? I don’t do one night stands.
“I would never ask or want you to, “ before the end of the week we can figure out something, "here’s my number, “ maybe we meet up in about an hour or so?
"yes we're on one hour, " I better get going, “my friends are waiting for me, and don’t stand me up.
"I would never stand you up.
*****************************
Liam, Drake Maxwell
Li what the hell took you so damn long ?"
He looks at Drake and smiles, sorry I'm late guys, here ," I'm not hungry guys I'm going fore a walk.
"Hmm Who did you meet ? "Max asked, you got that look.
What are you talking about?
The same look when you met Blossom."
You're sadly mistaken, he lied “I'm just in a great mood.
He might be on to something, you’re acting strange, “ you know you tell us anything, his eyes go wide, “ I’m sorry I didn’t think, “ but I get it you don’t trust me with what happened with Brooks, “ you have every right not to trust me.
“Drake I forgive you for that, water under the bridge," I'm over Riley and have been for a while now,". If you wanted to rekindle with her “you could there is nothing standing in your way, “ you have my blessing.
"Drake shakes his head, only if it was that easy, she said she loved me but ran to not hurt you," I believe apart of Riley was confused about who or what she wanted, you are like a brother to me I should’ve never went there."
“It's okay Drake, “ you can’t help who you fall in love with, “ I’m glad it happened she wasn’t for me, “I understand now, guys hate to cut this short but I got a few errands to run.
"Okay Li see you when you return.
So that’s not strange to you? He’s hiding something he couldn’t wait to get out of here, he should we follow him.
"Max let that man have his privacy, for God sake he's a grown man," “I’m sure whatever it is, “he’ll tell us when the time is right for him.
Guess your right, hey do you want half of Liam lunch?"
No thanks I know he probably got sushi I hate sushi.
*********
Mia and Jen, Amy
Mia why aren't you eating what happened? And you haven’t stopped smiling since you walked in, “ I assume that you met someone who you must think is special?
“ And would you think such a thing? Why can’t I just be happy?
Hmm I know you’re up to something, I don’t know why you’re hiding it though, “ Amy as usual you don’t say a word, you’ve known her for a good amount of time isn’t she acting unusual?
Jen, that’s her business so I just stay out of it, Jen roll her eyes
I thought we were friends Amy
We are, “ I think when she ready we’ll know.
Guys hello I’m still here
Hmm I know you’re up to something, “might as well spill it.”
My friend I have nothing to tell, “ but I do have some work that need s to be done.
That’s strange you told me you were off today
I am from the office but there are a few things I need get in order for my client, I want them to be happy with my work.
Okay but something or someone else got your attention.
She let a sigh and give her friends a hug, guys I’ll call you all later.
*************""
Liam and Mia
Hi beautiful how was your day besides thinking of kissing me?
She smiles, you're absolutely right I can't stop thinking about you," it's like I've known you all my life I don't usually have a deep connection with a lot of people, "honestly it's hard to have real friends when people find out who my father is, "I mean people have come up with some wild stuff, “ to try to get money from my family,
“Like what?
“Well it was this girl name Katie, *whom I thought we were friends, “ well my stepmom was on a trip, “ I woke up and and Katie wasn’t there, I went looking for her, “ there she was in my father’s bed, I was furious with my father, when he got me calm down, she started talking about she would tell the world he made her sleep with him, then she started showing us pictures on her phone, “ she even took a few naked, She got 40 million and a car.
“ So sorry your family went through that and sorry she wasn’t a real friend, you deserve the world, I want to talk to you, it's something been on my mind, I know we only known each other short time, “ would you come visit me?
How about this I think about and let you know Thursday evening over dinner?
“ it’s definitely a date, if you decide I can 1 send my jet for you.
She smiles, he cuffs her face and kisses her and she returns it.
Oh my I didn’t notice how late it was, “ can you walk me to my apartment.
He smiled sure I would love to, they walked side by side while holding hands, once to the door he give her a kiss and about part way
Wait, would you like to come in
Sure.
***********
Constantine, Bastien
Your majesty he's been with a young lady all day, " they just arrived at a at what look life lofts, I went in, " they have security and a door man, I couldn't follow them
Put an unmarked guard on them, “we know my son has a weakness for American women. “
“yes sir right a away
Check on Miss Brooks, we don’t need her back in my son’s life.
**************
Mia, Liam
They walked in the loft, he looked around at how nicely decorated it was, then walked over to the window looking over the busy city blow, this is beautiful and your place looks amazing he smiled."
" Thank you I'm an interior decorator and I take my career very serious, hey would you like something to eat or drink? It's been a while since we ate, I skipped lunch today.
That sounds great, I also skipped lunch I was so excited about this date, do you mind giving me a tour of your place.
Sure follow me, after the tour there was a knock on the door, " Jennifer what are you doing here?
Why are you calling me Jennifer what's wrong?
Nothing wrong I'm just surprised to see you so late, I'm ready tried I just got in can we talk tomorrow?
Mia what's up with you?
Nothing just tried.
I smell cologne who do you have here?
Jennifer can we talk tomorrow please."
Amelia I am not leaving until I meet this mystery man!
Liam come, this is my very nosy friend Jennifer and Jen this is Liam, now can you leave oh my God."
I knew you met someone, your phone go straight to voicemail, you didn't eat and I been by her 3 times checking on you it's 10 pm
She looks down at the ground and sigh, " Jen I'm sorry I lost track of time please forgive me, tomorrow we meet for lunch, she give a hug
She whispered he's handsome in her ear and has a nice body, " I'm going to go I know when I'm not wanted she jokes, nice to meet you Liam enjoy your night she winks. "
He smiles nice to meet you too, have a good night, once the door closes they both laugh
Sorry about that, you relax I'm going get us something to eat, from the kitchen."
That's fine I can't wait to taste your cooking, she walks out 30 minutes later with a plate of chicken Alfredo, Liam taste it, hmm not bad at all wow.
I really hope you like it, " I just threw something that was quick, it's getting late would you stay with me tonight?
Sure, " let me call my friends, pulls out phone dialing Drake number, he picks on first ring. "
where the hell are you Li? Do you know your father had chewed me out , " I know your a grown man but you need to at least tell me so we cover each other, " Con allowed you to take his place only if I agreed to look after you now where are you? "
"Drake I'm safe but I need time to myself tonight, just checking in, " I was just eating something then I will head to bed see you tomorrow, he hangs up.
" If you would like to change my brother has some new boxers and t-shirts in his room and look in hall closet you'll see washcloths, towels and body wash and really whatever you need.
He took his shower, made it back to the room she laying on the bed in a silk turquoise nightgown, he stood there frozen, thinking just how long he been without someone special in his life, he pulled from his thoughts, by hearing Mia call his name
"I'm tired let's go to bed, they got in bed he wrapped his arms around her as she snuggled up against him, she fell asleep, he laid there wondering where this would go, finally one hour later he drifted off to sleep.
#liam rys#drake walker#Maxwell Beaumont#riley brooks#royalty#ENVY#the royal romance#king Constantine#Spotify
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The Royal Romance.
Love Everlasting.
A/N: I had a different name and plot for this fic over a year ago. But after being in the RP community for more than a year, I've decided to write the current Royal Life of my favorite OTP.
Rated: Mature (at times can and will be Explicit. I'll be sure to change the rating when and if that happens). | Contains sexual content and strong language. (You know? The usual. Y'all should be used to this from me by now 😁) | Bolded and/or italicized words are conversations and thoughts of the characters. | Main Characters: King Marquise Rys (LI) and Queen Shanelle Miller-Rys (MC) | All Characters and names: (except MC and original characters created by me and/or other authors [their characters have been mentioned and/or used in the story with their permission] ) are property of Pixelberry.
Current Word Count: 50K words. (may be slightly more or may be slightly less. Look, I stop counting after editing and re-editing and driving myself insane. 🤷🏾♀️)
If you’d like to be added to my tag list. Just reblog or dm me and I will gladly add you! 😁😘
This series is rated Mature and/or Explicit. It is NOT reading material that is safe for those under 18. Reader discretion is STRONGLY advised!
Missing a chapter or want to read a chapter again? I got you covered! Click ——> Here!
Tag List: @choicesficwriterscreations @peonierose @twinkleallnight @txemrn @shewillreadyou
Yes. We have another chapter with MULTIPLE parts to it. Sorry, I tried to keep under 10K words but I became possessed by the ancestors and didn't stop until they said I’d written enough.
Chapter 9.) Matrimony. Part 1.
Shanelle and Khari were sitting in the solarium, looking through her wedding album.
“Ooh! There's you! There's Daddy! Look at TiTi! Uncle Dino! Everybody looks so sparkly.” Khari said as she looked through the photos.
“Thank you, baby.”
“Whoa! Look at the cake! It's so tall, mommy!”
“Yup. And it's a good thing they didn't drop it when they brought it out. Otherwise, your Daddy would've had a heart attack.”
Khari turns to the next page just as her dad walks in followed by their quartet of Corgis.
“There are my two favorite girls! What are you two up to?” Marquise asked.
“We're taking a trip down memory lane and looking at our wedding album,” Shanelle replies.
“Yeah! You should join us, Daddy.” Khari added.
“You know. I think I will. You got room for one more?”
Khari nodded before scooting over.
“Oooh! There's Auntie Nina! And Uncle Lo! Auntie Bronwyn! Look! There's Grammy and Pop Pop! There's Grammy Margo and…” Khari trailed off.
Marquise noticed the look on her face.
“What is it, my love?” he asked.
“Grandpa George,” Khari replied sadly.
Marquise shared a concerned look with his wife.
“I miss him,” Khari said with a sniffle.
Marquise wrapped an arm around his daughter as Khari buried her face in her dad’s side.
“I miss Grandpa.” Khari cried.
The one thing Marquise hated to see most in this world was his daughter in tears.
“Look at me, my love,” he spoke softly to Khari.
Khari looked up at him with tears in her eyes.
“My little one. Tears in those beautiful eyes simply will not do. I won't stand for it. So let's dry your eyes.”
Shanelle grabbed tissues and dabbed at Khari’s eyes.
“Much better,” Shanelle said after drying Khari’s eyes.
“Grammy says I should smile because Grandpa is in a happy place but I miss him.”
Marquise kissed her forehead softly.
“We know you do, my love. And it's okay to feel sad. We miss him too.”
“Do you think Grandpa misses us?” Khari asked.
“I'm sure he does, Peanut. You and Callie were his girls.” Shanelle replies.
“Then why did Grandpa go away? I don't understand.” Khari cried.
Shanelle nodded to her husband before he cradled their daughter in his arms.
“My sweet little girl. I know how you feel. I know that it hurts to lose someone you love so much.”
“You do Daddy?” Khari asked with a sniffle.
“Yes, my sweet one. I was just a wee bit older than you when my mother passed away.” Marquise replies.
“Were you sad Daddy?”
“Yes. I was very sad. I missed her terribly. Even now I miss her.”
“Really?” Khari asked.
“Yes, my love. I miss her a lot. Especially because she never got the chance to meet you, your brothers, and your mother. She never got the chance to love all of you,” Marquise replied.
Khari laid her head on her daddy’s shoulder.
“Do you think she would've liked me?” Khari asked.
“Ellie would have loved you. Even more, than I do.” a voice called out. It was Margo.
She saw the look on Khari’s face and became concerned.
“What's wrong, my sweet? Why do you look so sad?” Margo asked Khari.
Instead of answering, Khari hopped off the couch and ran to Margo.
“I miss Grandpa.”
Margo hugged Khari tightly.
“Oh, my sweet darling. I know you do. We all miss Grandpa.”
Margo thought for a second.
“I have an idea. Do you know what I did with your father when your grandmother passed away?” Margo asked Khari.
“What did you do, Grammy?” Khari replied.
“I took him and your Uncle Leo to a card shop in the city center. And we bought birthday cards and balloons. And when we got back to the Palace I had them write a message inside each card and tied them to a balloon, and we sent them off to heaven. Your father and I have done that every year for your grandmother's birthday. So what do you say we do that for Grandpa?”
Khari nodded.
“Okay.”
Margo smiled.
“To make it even more special, we’ll get art supplies and make the cards ourselves. Would you like that?” Margo asked.
“Yes. And we can make them pretty for Grandpa.” Khari replied.
“Exactly. Now dry your eyes my darling. We have cards to make.”
“Okay, Grammy.”
Margo took Khari by the hand and as she led the young princess out, she looked back to see her son mouth the words ‘thank you, mom’.
“I will never not be thankful for her,” Shanelle said with a sigh of relief.
“You? I would've been dead without her here with me.”
“Margo was not going to leave you and Leo alone with Connie.”
“I know. That's what I love most about her. She is as protective as she is loving.”
Marquise looked down at the photo album.
“I do have a question for you my love.”
“Yes, Your Majesty?”
“Why were you two looking through our wedding album?” Marquise asked.
“Khari was curious. And she wanted to know why she wasn't in any of the photos.” Shanelle replied.
“She wasn't born yet.”
“That's what I told her. But she was convinced she had to be in the photo album somewhere. So I broke out the album and we started looking through it.”
Marquise chuckled softly.
“My what a day that was.”
“Yeah. We had so much fun. The wedding was everything I ever wanted. The reception was immaculate. Everyone looked beautiful.”
“The wedding night was stellar! If I do say so myself.”
Shanelle shook her head.
“You gave me the wedding of my dreams that day.”
“I know I've said this before but I'll say it again, anything for you,” he said before turning the page to their official wedding photo.
“We were so young.”
“Yeah, we were. Look at us. You looked so good even in all that white regalia. I just knew you'd spill wine all over it.”
“And you were majestic in your wedding gown. It's amazing how we were and still are so in love,” he said before smiling at the photo.
“Indeed, my King.”
Their wedding was the talk of the town. Marquise made sure to pull out all the stops to give his bride the wedding of the century. What started in Boston ended in New York.
Let's go back, shall we?
It was the weekend after Shanelle and Marquise officially got engaged she was just waking up and when she rolled over the bed was empty. She sat up in bed and saw the bedroom door was cracked so she knew where he was. She threw on a robe and went down to the kitchen to find her then-fiance making coffee.
“Good morning my beautiful fiancee,” he said as he greeted her.
“Good morning, Your future Majesty,” she replied.
“Can I offer you a fresh cup?” he asked.
“Sure,” she replied as she sat down at the kitchen island.
He brought her a fresh hot cup of coffee with all her favorite accouterments.
“Ooh! I get the royal treatment.”
Marquise snorted.
“Well, you are the future Queen of Cordonia, my love.”
“It doesn't feel real. I'm going to be a Queen. Me. Plain old me.”
“First things first, don't ever call yourself plain. You are everything but plain.”
“You know what I meant.”
“I stand by my previous statement.”
Shanelle shook her head before taking a sip of her coffee.
“So what's for breakfast?” she asked.
“I was thinking of hash and eggs with Strawberry Nutella pancakes. I have some Spanish ham in the fridge that has to be used before it goes bad,” he replied.
“Works for me.”
“Coming right up.”
She watched him finish his coffee and start breakfast prep. Soon after he had a hot breakfast ready for them both.
“And voila! Breakfast is served.”
“Looks delicious.”
“Thank you, my love.”
“I take it that it won't always be like this.”
“Unfortunately no. This right now is the calm before the storm.”
“What's the storm?” she asked.
“Formally and officially announcing our engagement, naming you a duchy, beginning the transfer of Monarchial power, coming up with a plan to bring Cordonia back to life, uniting the last remaining two Royal Families as one, on top of planning our wedding,” he replies.
“That's a tall order.”
“Exactly. We will be busy for the next few months.”
“How soon do we have to be married?” she asked.
“Ideally? Now. But I want you to have the wedding of your dreams.” he replies.
“Gee thanks.”
Marquise chuckled.
“Is it wrong that I’m terrified?” she asked.
“No. Because essentially you’d be walking in blind. You have never dealt with Cordonian politics. I deal with them in my sleep. But that's also why you will be an amazing Queen. Because you aren't native to the kingdom, you can offer an outside and fresh perspective to the kingdom. Like my mother did when she was Queen. It's why the people loved her so much.”
“I'm sad I never got to meet her.”
“She would have loved you. She would've been pissed at our fathers and your uncle because of the betrothal agreement.”
“You think so?” she asked.
“Absolutely. She abhorred arranged marriages. Her mother was forced into one in Kenya. That's why she took the job as a chambermaid in Auvernal. She wanted to get her and my mother as far away from her husband as possible.”
“What was he like?” she asked.
“From the stories my mother used to tell, he was cruel. He had multiple wives and children in their village. According to my mother, he used to beat his wives if they disobeyed him.” he replied.
“What was your grandmother’s name?” she asked.
“Esther. I have a picture of her back home. She died after my parents were married. To honor her, my mother contacted her oldest brother, my uncle Victor, and had her buried near their village in Kenya.” he replied.
“Wow.”
“To keep me connected to her side of my family, she taught me to speak, read, and write Swahili.”
“Really?” she asked.
“Yes. She wanted me to learn so that if I ever found myself in Kenya again, I would know how to communicate with the people there. So I would never need a guide,” he replied.
“Your mother was a badass.”
“Thank you. Where do you think I get it from?” he asked.
“You're not a badass, sir.”
“Rude!”
Shanelle snickered.
“I can't believe you know Swahili.”
“It's a beautiful language. It's also how my mother used to curse at my father.”
“Really?” she asked.
“Mmmhmmm. Whenever she got mad at him, she'd curse his name in Swahili. And he was none the wiser.”
“Again she was a badass.”
“Thank you. She tried to teach him Swahili but he was never interested.”
“Would you ever teach me?” she asked.
“Sure. I'll start with my favorite phrase,” he replied.
“What's your favorite phrase in Swahili?” she asked.
“Nakupenda, mrembo wangu. It means I love you, my beautiful one,” he replied.
“Smooth.”
He snickered.
“So in terms of the engagement, what happens now?” she asks.
“Well first things first, I would send the news off to two people,” he replied.
“Who?”
“Duke Godfrey would be first. He's the herald of the Monarchy. He sends out official Press Releases on behalf of my father. And the second is an old friend named Donnie Brine. He's the Editor-in-Chief at the CBC.”
“What's the CBC?” she asked.
“The Cordonian Broadcasting Company. He's covered both Royal Families for decades. Once they're alerted, we will be off to Cordonia.” he replies.
“To be married?” she asked.
“No. To begin the transfer of Monarchial power,” he replies.
“What does that entail exactly?” she asked.
“We would meet with my father and your uncle and they would sign over their kingdoms to us. Then the process would begin and it would finalize at our wedding,” he replies.
“What happens if they try to fight us?” she asks.
“They could but it would do them no good. The one smart thing your father did right was to have a special provision written into the agreement. My father and your uncle have to transfer the kingdoms over to us peacefully or else they'll be stripped of their titles, thrown into a dungeon and the two kingdoms will be turned over to you without us having to be married.” he replies.
“My dad did that?”
“Yes. He wasn't just going to turn you over without you getting a kingdom.”
Shanelle sighed.
“So I guess he was looking out for me.”
“Indeed. Speaking of which, have you talked to him?” he asked.
Shanelle shook her head no.
“I don’t know if I’m ready to speak to him yet.”
“I understand but hopefully you'll be talking to him before we get married.”
“Hopefully. Now when will you send the news about our engagement?” she asked.
“As soon as I get back upstairs to my laptop. Why? You in a rush?” he replied.
“Am I in a rush to get my duchy? Yes.”
“And here I thought you loved me.”
“I love money, power, and access. Not you.”
Marquise placed a hand over his chest.
“I'm being used! My poor heart.”
The two snickered.
“Are you ready, love?” he asked.
“No. But I know that you'll be there,” she replies.
He covered her trembling right hand with his.
“Of course not. I will never leave you alone. We rule together.”
“So let's get this show on the road.”
Marquise smiled at her. They finished their breakfast before he headed upstairs to send the news of their engagement off to the proper channels. And while he was sending the official word, she was breaking the news to her girls.
“Okay out with it!” Nina said.
“Yeah! What was with that cryptic text?” Robin asked.
“It better be an emergency!” Bron pouted.
“What they said!” Aly, Dee, and Chut said in agreement.
“Are y'all done?” Shanelle asked.
“What is it, Princess?” Nina asked.
Shanelle sighed dramatically before covering her face with her left hand showing her engagement ring.
“Gee…what could I possibly text you tramps about that would be so damn urgent?” she asked.
The girls stared for a few seconds trying to figure out what Shanelle was asking until Nina spoke up.
“HOLY SHIT! IS THAT AN ENGAGEMENT RING?!” Nina blurted out.
“And my favorite Keane Klown wins the door prize!”
The girls all began talking and cheering all at once.
“Oh, My God!” Dee squealed.
“Yesssssssss!” Chut cheered.
“Congratulations Shan! I'm so happy for you!”
“We are planning a bachelorette party!” Bron piped up.
“And the Bridal Shower!” Robin added.
Shanelle shook her head with a smile.
“Thank you, girls.”
“When did he propose?” Nina asked.
“The other night. It was a whole thing.” Shanelle replied.
“Did he do a whole romantic gesture?” Bron asked.
“He was going to do that until…” Shanelle replied.
“Until what?” Dee asked.
Shanelle sighed deeply.
“Until Cass showed up.”
“WHAT?! The girls exclaimed.
“No. He didn't,” Nina said out loud.
Shanelle looked at her best friend.
“He did. It's not his fault. He was set up.”
“By who?” Chut asked.
“Marquise’s ex. She set him up.” Shanelle replies.
The girls all went off at once. None more than Nina.
“How the fuck did she do that?” Nina asked.
“Apparently when she found out about me, she also found out about Cass. And she reached out to him and fed him a bullshit lie about me being in trouble and that he had to save me from Marquise.” Shanelle replies.
“Oh hell no!” Robin growled.
“She needs her ass beat!” Nina growled.
“Trust and believe she's getting her ass handed to her. But not by you.”
“And why not? He's my brother.” Nina asked.
“Because I'm not about to have you arrested for a murder that you can't get away with,” Shanelle replied.
“What makes you think I can't get away with it?” Nina asked.
“Because she's Cordonian Royalty and you're not. Also, what part of ‘I'm not about to have you arrested for a murder that you can't get away with’ did you not hear?” Shanelle replied.
Nina sucked her teeth.
“Besides, I owe the bitch an ass-whooping anyway.”
“Uh uh! We want in!” Bron piped up.
“Fine! Y'all can record me beating her ass while yelling WorldStar!”
The girls laughed.
“So what happened?” Dee asked.
“I was upstairs when I heard yelling and when I came downstairs, Cass had his gun drawn on Marquise,” Shanelle replies.
“He drew his weapon?” Robin asked.
“Yeah. That's not even the worst part.” Shanelle replies.
“I don’t like the sound of this.” Chut quipped.
Shanelle sighed.
“Marquise and I were coming back from a youth football game when he got an alert on his phone. Cass tripped the silent alarm when he picked the lock on the kitchen door.”
“He broke in?!” Aly asked.
“Yeah…” Shanelle replied.
“He had a warrant right?” Nina asked.
Shanelle went quiet.
“Oh no! No! He wouldn't!”
Shanelle sighed deeply.
“Sadly he did. He not only broke in but he didn't have a warrant.”
The girls groaned and sighed in disappointment.
“Please don't be mad at him. He did what he thought was right. He thought he was protecting me. If y'all are gonna be mad, be mad at the bitch. This was her fault. Not his.”
“Oh believe me. I am pissed at her. I can't believe she set my brother up.” Nina hissed.
“I can. I'm sure she thought Cass would be able to convince me to leave Marquise. Which is kinda ironic.”
“Why?” Dee asked.
“According to Marquise, this chick is already married.”
“Marrieddddddd?!?!?!?!” Bron asked.
“Yup. She got a whole-ass husband at home but she swears that she doesn't love him. She only loves my now fiance.” Shanelle replied.
“She is fucking insane.” Chut quipped.
“She's the perfect case study for you babe.”
“Nope. Hell no! I wouldn't touch her. I'd kill her for fucking with you and my cousin.”
Shanelle snickered.
“Here come the claws!”
The girls laughed.
“The nerve of that floozie!” Aly seethed.
The girls cackled.
“Not a floozie! Alyssa Lynn! You know better!” Shanelle said in feigned shock.
“She is! She's nothing but trouble!”
“She's nothing that I can't handle.”
“We! Nobody fucks with you without getting jumped by us.” Robin said emphatically.
“Y’all are my girls for a reason.”
“This is a great day and it's about to get greater,” Bron said.
“What do you mean?” Shanelle asked.
They watched Bronwyn bite her lip before showing off her left hand, revealing her engagement ring.
“Shut. Up!” Shanelle said out loud.
The girls cheered all over again.
“Bronwyn! Why would you wait to say something?” Shanelle asked.
“Because this was your moment. I didn't want to interrupt,” she replied.
“I'm gonna whoop you! As matter of fact, where is my shoe?!” Shanelle asked.
The girls laughed.
“But seriously congratulations babe! Finally, someone is gonna make an honest man outta Squirt.”
“Thank you, Shanelle. I'm so excited.”
“Same here.”
“So can we start planning for these weddings?” Nina asked.
“Yeah yeah. Go crazy.” Shanelle replied.
“Go crazy about what?” Marquise asked as he came down the stairs with his laptop in his hands.
“Is that the Prince?” Bron asked.
“The one and the same. Now, what is this beautiful creature permitting you girls to do?” Marquise replied.
“Her bachelorette party and bridal shower. And Bron’s wedding too,” Dee answered.
“Well let me first say congratulations to you, Miss Davis.”
“Thank you, Your Highness.”
“And let me also add one more party to your planning. Every future Queen has to host an official tea for the ladies of the court. So how would you ladies like to plan that tea?” Marquise asked.
“Do we have a budget?” Robin asked.
“Nope,” Marquise replied.
“Oop! Okay Mr. Moneybags! I see you.”
“Does it have to be in Cordonia?” Dee asked.
“Yes. It will be at her soon-to-be duchy. But as she said, you girls get to go crazy.” Marquise replied.
“Oooh!” the girls said in response.
“Well, ladies…have fun,” Marquise said to the girls.
“Oh, we will!” Nina said to him.
“Wonderful. Now I have to steal the future Queen if you girls don't mind.”
Shanelle shook her head.
“I'll talk to you girls soon,” Shanelle said to her friends before they all signed off.
“Are they excited?” he asked.
“Very. For us and Bron. Also, they're the bridesmaids. That's non-negotiable.” she replies.
“Fair enough. Now I have to show you your duchy so they can help you plan and host your first tea.”
“I get to pick my duchy?” she asked.
“No, I've already picked it out,” he said as he opened his laptop.
“If it's my duchy why do you get to choose it?” she asked.
“Future King,” he replies.
Shanelle pouted.
“Now let me show you your duchy. This is Valtoria. It's one of the oldest duchies in Cordonia.”
“It's beautiful.”
“And it's all yours.”
Shanelle scrolled through the pictures on his laptop. She loved all the open fields, the quaint towns, the lakes, ponds, the two rivers, as well as the massive estate with the waterfall behind it.
“All of that is mine?” she asked.
“Yes. Or it will be once we go to Cordonia,” he replies.
“But what am I supposed to do with it?” she asked.
“The people of Valtoria are pretty self-sufficient. To be honest, outside of visiting the orphanage, the hospital, and hosting the Lantern Festival every June, they don't require much from you,” he replies.
“So why Valtoria?” she asked.
“The duchies in Cordonia belong to a noble family; some families are more well known than others and each is passed down through the generations to the oldest heir. The Valtoria family was one of the first noble families in Cordonia. Well, the former Duchess of Valtoria had no heirs or siblings to pass the duchy on to when she died 5 years ago. It's sat vacant since her death. And now it belongs to you.” he replies.
“I still can't believe it. When we go to Cordonia will I be able to see it?” she asked.
“Of course. We’ll take a tour once we're there,” he replies.
“It's a beautiful duchy. It's just…” she trailed off.
“Just what?” he asked.
“I don't like the name all that much. Sounds old,” she replied.
“Okay so change it.”
“Wait, I can do that?” she asked.
“Yes. It's your duchy, my love,” he replied.
Shanelle took a moment to think.
“You're gonna laugh at me.”
“Why would I do that?”
“Because of the name I have in mind.”
“What name do you have in mind?” he asked.
“There was an old children’s book that my dad got me when I was 5. I got the name from that book,” she replied.
“What was the name of the book?” he asked.
Shanelle bit her lip.
“Princess…”
“The Legends of the Volterias Dragon. I used to love that book so much,” she replied.
“I remember that book. It was one of Leo’s favorites.”
“Yeah. I used to read it all the time. Zamyra was my hero.”
“Very well. I will file the paperwork to have the name officially changed from Valtoria to Volterias.”
“So I have one last question for you.”
“Yes, my love?” he asked.
“When do we leave?” she replies.
“We leave Monday morning. So get upstairs and get packed.”
Shanelle couldn't run up the back stairs and get packed fast enough. Although flying 10 ½ hours from Boston to Cordonia made her squeamish, she knew he would be there every step of the way. Early that following Monday morning, it was off to the airport. As they rode to Logan Airport with Ozzie in a carrier, she had a range of emotions running through her and he noticed.
“Are you alright, love?” he asked as he placed his hand on her left knee.
“Yeah. I'm just all over the place,” she replied.
“What are you feeling?” he asked.
“Everything. I'm excited, terrified, anxious, ready to hit the ground running, overwhelmed, and everything else in between,” she replied.
“I understand. This is brand new territory for you. But I promise you'll never be alone. Whatever you need help with, I'll be there to help and guide you.”
“Thank you. I know I have you to rely on.”
He brought her left hand to his lips for a soft kiss.
“And you always will.”
She smiled at him. When they boarded the plane and took their seats, her anxiety began to creep up but when she felt him squeeze her hand, she started to calm down.
“It's okay love. I'm here. And Ozzie is too.”
Shanelle shook her head with a smile.
“What would I do without you two?” she asked.
The flight went a lot smoother for her the second time. She wasn't as much of a nervous wreck as before. The sun had started to go down as they got ready to land in Cordonia.
“Still so beautiful.”
“Yes, you are. And so is Cordonia.”
“Kiss ass.”
“Don't tempt me Shanelle.”
Shanelle snickered as they taxied on the tarmac. She slipped her left hand into his right hand just as they got ready to disembark.
“Are you ready my love?” Marquise asked her.
“As I'll ever be,” she replied.
He smiled at her before looking at Ozzie.
“Ready to go boy?” he asked Ozzie.
Ozzie’s only response was a bark.
“Well Sir Ozzie, lead off.”
With Ozzie’s leash in his left hand, the two stepped off the jet and right into camera flashes and clamoring paparazzi.
“They're everywhere,” Shanelle whispered to him over the shouting voices.
“Yes, they are. So let's give them a show,” he replied as he led her to a raised podium.
Marquise raised a hand to quiet the crowd.
“Good evening everyone. Thank you for joining us. It's good to be home.” Marquise said as he greeted the crowd of reporters. “Now I’m sure you’re all here to hear the news, so I'll get right to it.”
He turned to Shanelle with a warm smile that she returned.
“This beautiful, incredible, amazing woman right here, Princess Shanelle Miller, Crown Heir to the throne of South Cordonia has accepted my proposal. We are to be married,” he said as he showed off her engagement ring.
The press started shouting at them all at once again.
“Now now. I'm sure many of you have questions for us. So we'll take a few questions.”
At that statement, Donnie Brine spoke up.
“Your Highness! On behalf of the CBC let me say congratulations to you and Her Highness on your engagement. Ever since the news broke last Friday, many have wondered what this means for the kingdom.”
“Thank you, Donnie. This is an exciting time for us and Cordonia. With our marriage, Cordonia will finally be united as one for the first time in more than a century. The days of two divided kingdoms will soon come to an end.”
“That's amazing. Now I have a question for the Princess.”
Shanelle stepped up to the podium.
“Hello, Your Highness. Welcome to Cordonia. And congratulations to you.” Donnie said to her.
“Thank you, Donnie. It's good to be back in Cordonia.”
“You're quite welcome. How are you feeling?” Donnie asked her.
“Everything. I'm excited and nervous and hopeful,” she replied.
“That's understandable. What are you hoping to accomplish as the next Queen of Cordonia?” Donnie asked her.
The question caught Shanelle off guard.
“I am much like my mother and my maternal grandmother. My mother is a schoolteacher and is the teacher’s union President for NYCPS. I have watched her spend most of her life fighting for education. She believes that teachers and educators are severely underpaid, overworked, and often not appreciated enough. She has also poured her soul into teaching each of her students. She is always available to them. Always open to tutoring. Always there to help in any way she can. She is my inspiration for quality education for all Cordonian children. Likewise, my maternal grandmother was a nurse. She believed in healing. Both professionally and holistically. Keeping her drive to always make sure her patients were healed is my inspiration. Fair, accessible, and quality Healthcare was her whole life. I want Cordonia to have that. I want no one to wonder whether or not they have enough money to afford a doctor's appointment or a prescription. A Cordonia that is healthy and thriving is a Cordonia for all.”
Many in the crowd cheered for her.
“Thank you, Princess. I can see why His Highness is excited about your upcoming wedding.” Donnie said to her. She smiled at him.
Marquiss stepped up to the podium.
“Now while we enjoy having you all here, we are due at the palace. We will see you all very soon.”
They stepped off the dais with Ozzie in tow and headed for their waiting car. Once inside Shanelle took a deep breath.
“Oh, my God! That was a lot scarier than I thought,” she said to Marquise.
He kissed the knuckles of her left hand.
“You did quite well my love. It was your first time in front of the press. It's perfectly normal to be nervous.”
“You give me too much credit.”
He kissed the side of her forehead.
“No. I don't give you enough credit. But thankfully for me, I'll have a lifetime to give you all the credit you deserve.”
She laid her head on his shoulder as they rode to the palace. When they pulled up to the residence, they were greeted by Marquise’s lead guard Alex and Bastien.
“Good evening Your Highnesses. Welcome back to the palace. I want to personally congratulate you both on your engagement.” Bastien said to them both.
Marquise placed a hand over his chest.
“Was that…genuine sincerity? You’re losing your edge Bastien old man.” Marquise replied.
“Yes, my congratulations to you and Her Highness are sincere.”
Marquise scoffed.
“Oh please. They weren't sincere, they were self-serving. You and I both know you’re not here to greet the Princess and I nor are you here to offer your heartfelt congratulations. You’re here to find out whether or not you'll still have a job once the new Monarchy is formed.”
Bastien exhaled slowly.
“That is part of the reason, yes, but I do want you to know that I am genuinely happy for you, Your Highness. The Princess is a great young woman and I do wish you both the best.”
Marquise shook his head.
“Still self-serving as ever I see. Well if you must know Bastien, as much as I can't stand you, I would be an idiot to overlook your years of diligent and loyal service to the King’s Guard. So you have my word, your position will be safe.”
Marquise watched Bastien visibly relax.
“Thank you, Your Highness.”
“Don't thank me. Because if it were up to me you'd be exiled. But I know how hard and extremely rare it is to find people who are as genuinely loyal to the Family, The King’s Guard, and the kingdom as you are. As long as you remain that way, you'll have a job. Besides, I owe it to Jackson to keep you around. He trained you to be the best in the Guard. He would haunt me if I fired you.”
Bastien nodded.
“I understand my Prince. It will be my honor to serve you and Her Highness.”
Marquiss rolled his eyes.
“Right. Now if you'll excuse us, we just got off a 10 ½-hour flight. My fiancee needs her rest and I need mine.”
“My Prince, there is a pressing matter that needs your attention,” Bastien said to Marquise.
“What?” Marquise asked.
“Your father wishes to speak with you,” Bastien replied.
“He can wait until the morning.”
“But it's important, my Prince.”
“What part of ‘we just got off a 10 ½ hour flight’ did you not comprehend Bastien?”
“Marquise, I don't think it's wise for you to ignore your father.”
Marquise bristled at the mention of his name.
“What have I told you about using my first name Bastien?” Marquise asked.
“I apologize, my Prince. But it is an important matter.” Bastien replied.
“If it involves Constantine Rys, then it's not an important matter. It's a personal one. You know this. And for the record, I'm not in the mood to deal with him or his bullshit right now.” Marquise said to Bastien before turning to Alex and giving him an order. “Let's go.”
Alex merely nodded before escorting Marquise and Shanelle into the palace. After dropping Ozzie off at the Royal Kennels they went to his wing in the palace. When they got to his suite, Shanelle plopped down on his bed.
“Ugh! My feet! Why didn't you warn me that the walk would be that long?” she asked him.
“Because if I had told you, you wouldn't have worn heels,” he replies.
Shanelle rolled her eyes with a smirk.
“Just for that, you’re giving me a foot massage.”
A slow grin bloomed across his face.
“As my Queen commands.”
He knelt in front of her and slipped her heels off before slowly massaging her aching feet. He loved seeing the ecstasy on her face.
“Better my love?” he asked.
“Much. I'm going to enjoy making you do this every time I have to wear heels,” she replied with her eyes closed.
“I welcome the opportunity to serve you.”
Just as the massage was getting good, there was an insistent knock at the door.
“Nooo!” Shanelle pouted.
“Now now. I have more where that came from.”
“But!” she protested.
He kisses her slowly.
“I'm sure this won't take long.”
He got up and went to the door and when he opened it he was greeted by a very happy older black man.
“Hah! Hah! My boy, you've done it!” the older man triumphantly said as he wrapped Marquise in a very enthusiastic bear hug.
“It's good to see you too, Papa.”
“When your mother told me the good news I couldn't wait to rub it in Constantine’s smug face.”
Marquise chuckled.
“Maybe wait until I have the official title first.”
The old man waved him off.
“Even if he fired me for it, you would just hire me back. Because that's the man I raised you to be.”
Marquise shook his head with a smile.
“Are you going to let me in or do I have to stand here all night?” the older man asked.
Marquise stepped aside to let him in.
“Come in Papa.”
“Thank you, my boy. Now, where is that beautiful young Princess of yours?”
Marquise shook his head just as Shanelle cleared her throat. Catching their attention.
“There she is! And my! She's even more beautiful than I thought.”
“Papa! You are married!” Marquise fussed.
“Married. Not blind! Just because I’m on a diet doesn't mean I can't look at the dessert case.”
The elder man turned his attention to Shanelle with a bright smile.
“Bonsoir Votre Altesse.” the elder said with a bow. “My name is George Geaneaux. I am His Majesty’s lead attendant. I'm sure you've met my wife Margo.”
“Hello, Mr. Geaneaux. It's good to meet you.” Shanelle replied.
“Please call me George. And let me apologize to you. I'm sorry that I didn't get to meet you, your first time here. I was…indisposed at that moment.”
“It's okay. You’re here now.”
“Indeed I am. And much like His Highness, I am at your service, milady.”
Marquise rolled his eyes good-naturedly.
“Charming as ever Papa.”
“Of course I am, my boy. It's a part of my job.”
“How is Maman? Is she feeling any better?” Marquiss asked George.
“Yes, my boy. Your mother is doing fine. It was just a dizzy spell. She wanted to come to greet you both when you arrived, but I thought it was best that she get her rest.” George replies.
“Oh no! What happened?” Shanelle asked.
George cleared his throat before taking a deep breath.
“You must understand, Princess, dealing with Their Majesties…can be physically and emotionally taxing. Especially on the senior staff such as myself and my wife. Margo had forgotten to eat all day and her blood sugar dropped.” George replied.
Marquise closed his eyes and clenched his fists.
“I try not to worry Marquise about his mother but he is as insistent on knowing the status of her health and is as protective of her now as he was as a child.”
“Please give her my regards. I do hope that I'll see her while I’m here.”
“I will do just that, Princess. And I thank you for your concern for her.”
George turned back to Marquise who had a look on his face.
“Do not worry my boy.”
“Too late Papa.”
“Margo is fine. You know she would never go down without a fight. She's a lot tougher than you and I give her credit for.”
“I know Papa. I'm just…I wasn't here to protect her. She at least would've eaten if I was here.”
“Far be it from me to ever defend your father, but it wasn't him who ran her ragged.”
“Oh for the love of God!” Marquise hissed.
“Do you mean Queen Regina?” Shanelle asked.
“Yes, Your Highness. Her Majesty doesn't like any of the staff here. And she detests me and my wife the most.”
“But why?” Shanelle asked.
“Because they refuse to be bullied by her. That's why.” Marquise replied.
George shook his head.
“You have always been overprotective of her and me.”
“I will always be Papa.”
“That's my boy. Now I should let you both get your rest. I will return to attend to both of your needs in the morning.”
Marquise nodded.
“Merci papa. Dis à maman que je la verrai bientôt.”
“De rien, mon fils. Maintenant, reposez-vous. Je te verrai demain matin.”
George turned to Shanelle and bowed.
“I bid you farewell, Princess. I shall see you soon.”
“Good night George. I hope you rest well.���
George smiled before leaving the room. Leaving Marquise and Shanelle alone.
“It was good to meet George,” Shanelle said but Marquise never replied.
“Hey, are you okay?” she asked him.
“To be honest with you, no. I'm worried about mom,” he replied.
“She's gonna be okay. You heard him.”
Marquise shook his head.
“Do you know they're the ones who convinced me to give up my dream of being Prime Minister to be King? They are why I am doing this. They and so many others like them are my motivation. My father has gone completely mad. He cares nothing for the people. He's even more selfish, self-centered, and self-serving than ever. I have to save my home. I have to save my people.”
Shanelle placed her hands in his.
“And we will. We will save this kingdom and the people. I am just as invested in the future of Cordonia as you are.”
He kissed her forehead softly.
“Thank you. I didn't mean to dump all of this on you, my love.”
“It's alright. That's why I’m here. We are a team. We are Cordonia. You and me. Well, me more than you because everyone will eventually wind up loving me more.”
Marquise snorted.
“And I’m okay with that. Now let's get some food because I’m hungry then we'll get some rest. We have a full week ahead of us.”
Shanelle nodded.
“Works for me.”
Marquise ordered room service and before long the two were enjoying dinner on his balcony under the stars.
“Oh. My. God! This seafood pasta is too fucking die for!” Shanelle said in between bites.
“I'm glad you like it, my love. I will have the kitchen staff add it to their menu rotation for you.”
“You can do that?” she asked.
“Mmmhmm. When you’re nice to the staff here they don't mind doing things for you. It's quite a novel concept.”
“True. I hope Ozzie is okay though.”
“He'll be fine. Knowing him, he'll have the staff eating out his hand…I mean his paw in no time.”
Shanelle chuckled.
“How long have the kennels been here?” she asked.
“Longer than I've been alive. They were built for the hounds used in the Grand Hunt,” he replied.
“The Grand Hunt? What's that?” she asked.
“An annual event where all the nobles hop their happy usually drunk asses onto horses and go hunting. The one with the most kills would be named Master Of The Hunt,” he replied.
“What would usually be hunted?” she asked.
“Wascally Wabbits,” he replied.
“Fuck you Elmer Fudd.”
Marquise snickered.
“Has a woman ever won?” she asked.
“Yup. As a matter of fact, Queen Genevieve has won the title twice. And your uncle never lets anyone forget it.”
Shanelle rolled her eyes.
“There's also the annual Cordonian Derby.”
“I know about that. It's one of my dad’s favorite Cordonian pastimes. It's similar to the Kentucky Derby. Just without the racist southern undertones and Mint Juleps.”
“I love the Kentucky Derby. I went to race my junior year of college.”
“I didn't know that.”
“Yup. Me, Tommy, a few guys we knew, and my brother all hopped on a jet to Louisville. I even won a little money.”
“You bet on the horses?” she asked.
“Yes. I always bet on horses. That and poker.”
Shanelle raised an eyebrow.
“You're good at poker?” she asked.
“Nope. I'm just better than you,” he replied with a wink.
“Looks like I’m gonna have to test that.”
“Be my guest, my love. I do love a good game of strip poker.”
Shanelle rolled her eyes with a smirk.
“And now that dinner is done, how about we have a little dessert?” he asked.
“Sure. What did you get?” she replied.
He took the lid off a covered dish to reveal eclairs.
“These eclairs were made by George and Margo’s daughter Jenna. She's a pastry chef here.”
Shanelle took one bite and was in love.
“Forget you! I'm about to marry her! These are delicious!”
Marquise snickered.
“I'll be sure to give my sister your compliments.”
“You really see them as family.”
“Yes, I do. When my father decided that he couldn't be troubled or bothered with the responsibility of raising his children, Margo and George stepped in. They took us in and gave us love that I will never be able to repay either of them for. They know how important family is, especially Margo.”
“She told me that she and her brothers grew up in an orphanage.”
“They did. Margo, Jean-Pierre, and uncle Abhi are originally from France. Their father died when Abhi was a baby. And their mother…she met a man who was very well off. He owned a textile company. And their mother fell head over heels in love with him. But he wouldn't marry her because she had children. So he made her choose between him and her children.”
“No! She didn't!”
“She did. She put Margo and her brothers on a train to Cordonia and never looked back. They were supposed to come live with a cousin here but that fell through and they wound up at the orphanage.”
“My God! How old were they?” Shanelle asked.
“Jean-Pierre was 8, Margo was 6, and Abhi was 2. Their mother went on to marry the man and have kids with him. And when he died, he left everything to her. And when she died, she left it all to Margo and her brothers.”
“If Margo has money like that, why is she still working here?” Shanelle asked.
“Because Margo didn't want the money, she just wanted her mother,” he replies.
“I can understand that. So what happened with their siblings? The bigger question: how many siblings do they have?” she asked.
“Margo and her brothers have 3 other siblings. I remember Leo and I going with Margo and Jean-Pierre to their mother’s funeral. Their siblings were not happy to see us. And when the will was read, they were devastated. Their mother knew they would squander the money and the company so she left everything to the children she forgot. As a compromise, they gave most of the money to their siblings. Margo bought a house here for her family and Jean-Pierre fixed up the butcher shop. And uncle Abhi took over the business. He makes all my suits.”
“Wow.”
“Yeah. That's just one of the many reasons why I love her. Margo’s heart is so big that she welcomed two children who weren't hers into her family and never let us go.”
“She's a special one to put up with you.”
Marquise stuck his tongue out at her just before she tried and failed to hide a yawn.
“Somebody’s sleepy.”
“Yup. A full belly makes me sleepy.”
“Then let's turn in. We have a full day tomorrow and I want you to be in tip-top shape.”
Shanelle nodded before they walked back into his bedroom and went to sleep in his arms. The next morning they were up bright and early after having breakfast, meeting with the many councils, guilds, commissions, and committees. By lunchtime, she was exhausted.
“Sheesh! I have never had to introduce myself to so many people.”
“Welcome to life as the next reigning Monarch, my love.”
“Will it always be this way?” she asked.
“For the most part, yes. But we will have time for our own private moments,” he replied as he led her into a side courtyard where lunch was waiting.
“Ugh! Thank you! I'm starving. And we had a big breakfast this morning.”
“Are you starving my love or do you just like to eat?” he asked.
“Both,” she replied before digging into her salad. “Oh, my God! Why is the food here so damn good?”
“Because you don't have an entire Michelin Starred kitchen staff at your disposal.”
“This is literally the best Chicken Caesar Salad I've ever had. The chicken is tender, the greens are fresh, the Parmesan cheese is real and not the stuff in the container although I have no problems with the cheese in the green container, and this Caesar dressing is the freshest I've ever had…I think I’m in love. I never thought I could love food like this.”
Marquise snorted.
“It's just a salad love.”
“No no! It is a life-changing salad! This is a product of the Salad Gods!”
“Well now that you've been blessed by the Gods of salad, how are you feeling about everything we've done today so far?” he asked.
“It's a lot to take in but I’m feeling good. It was good to meet the actual people behind the councils as well as the leaders. They all seem eager and ready to hit the ground running like we are. And as you said, this is just one part of the kingdom. We still have to visit South Cordonia.” she replies.
“And we will. I know you’re eager to see it. Believe me, my love, I would never just throw you into the deep end if I didn't think you could swim.”
“How are you feeling?” she asked.
“I'm hopeful. I think the kingdom is starting to really come around to the idea that the new Monarchy is about the people. And not just the nobility. I think that they're hoping to have a Cordonia for all and not just one side. And I think they're looking to us to achieve that.” he replies.
“That was always your goal and now it'll be our reality.”
He rubbed the knuckles of her left hand with his thumb.
“I don’t think I will ever have enough words to tell you how thankful I am for you. I swear to you this marriage isn't just about Cordonia. First and foremost, it is about my undying love and devotion to and for you. It will never be a prison sentence. You will always have your freedom, your autonomy, and your agency to do whatever you please. I would never stand in your way.”
“Save that for your marriage vows.”
“Can't. My vows are way too damn long already.”
“You wrote your vows already?” she asked.
“I had them written the day I met you,” he replied.
Shanelle shook her head with a smile.
“You are hopelessly romantic.”
He brought her left hand to his lips for a soft kiss.
“I always have been and I always will be.”
“I hope you stay that way.”
“I want you to know something very important.”
“What?” she asked.
“I love you, Shanelle.”
Shanelle smiled at him.
“I love you too, Marquise.”
Just when he thought this moment couldn't get any better a voice called out.
“There you two are! I've been looking all over this palace for you.”
It was Margo.
Marquise immediately stood up and embraced Margo.
“Hello, my son. I've missed you too.”
“Are you feeling better mama?” he asked.
Margo kissed his cheek.
“Yes, my darling. I'm fine. You shouldn't worry so much. I can take care of myself.” she replies.
“I know. But as long as they breathe you, George and the rest of the staff are not safe. And I would die if something were to happen to you.”
“You are your mother’s child. Always looking out for me, George, and the staff the way she always used to. Ellie would be so proud of you son.”
“Thank you, mama.”
Margo smiled at him before looking at Shanelle with a warm smile.
“Hello, Your Highness! Congratulations on being engaged to this lovable oaf.”
“Hey!” Marquiss pouted.
Shanelle snickered.
“Thank you, Margo. You did a good job with this one.”
Margo chuckled.
“I tried. He has so much of Ellie in him. I just try to bring it out.”
Shanelle smiled.
“Now I'm sure I've taken up enough of yours and his time. But again, congratulations my dear. He's a lucky man to have you.”
“I'm the lucky one, Margo.”
Margo smiled before looking at Marquise.
“I will be fine, son. I don't want you to worry.”
“Mama…”
“None of that. You are the next King. I want you to be strong.”
“She's right.” Shanelle agreed.
“Listen to your future Queen, son.”
Marquise shook his head with a smile.
“They're ganging up on me.”
“With good reason, son.”
Marquise placed a soft kiss on her forehead.
“Thank you, mama. I'll see you soon.”
Margo smiled at them both before leaving them alone.
“She seems very happy for us,” Shanelle said to him.
“She is. I've known her my whole life. She has always been happy for me. She has always wanted the best for me.”
“I'm happy that you have her and George.”
“So am I.”
Marquise checked his watch.
“Well now that we've had a very filling lunch, are you ready to get back to it?” he asked.
“I guess. Just if you see me start to doze, gently nudge me awake,” she replied.
“Deal.”
He offered her his arm as they walked back into the palace. The couple spent the rest of the afternoon and part of the evening meeting the rest of the councils. When they got back to his room, Shanelle was ready to crash.
“Ugh! Too…much…talking…brain…is…fried.” she groaned into a pillow.
She felt his arms wrap around her.
“Poor Princess. She's all tuckered out.” he teased.
“Go to hell.” she hissed.
He turned her over so that she was facing him.
“If I do that I won't be able to do this.”
He kissed her slowly. Savoring the taste of her lips on his.
“You're insufferable.”
“And yet. You love me, my love.”
“Yes, I do.”
She laid her head on his chest. He was becoming her safe space from the world. They laid on his bed in companionable silence with her listening to the beat of his heart.
“I like this.”
“What?” he asked.
“I like having this time alone with you.”
He kissed her forehead softly.
“Good. I'm glad you do. I always want you to know that you will always be loved, respected, heard, appreciated, protected, and defended by me. I am your knight, your husband, your partner before I am anything else.”
“I just worry that it won't always be like this.”
He tilted her chin up so that she was looking at him directly.
“That is one thing you will never have to question or worry about. I will always be available to and for you.”
“You promise?” she asked.
“I swear it on my life, and my mother’s great name and legacy,” he replied.
Shanelle smiled at him.
“I'm hungry but I also need to take a shower.”
“Okay well, go hop in the shower and I'll order us some dinner.”
“Sounds like a plan. Too bad you won't be in there when I get in.”
“Well yeah. That's because I will be waiting for you when you get out,” he said with a wink.
He watched her walk into his ensuite and after several minutes of hearing her fawning over the bathroom, he heard the water turn on and that's when he ordered them dinner. While waiting for their food and for her to get out of the shower, Marquise pulled his laptop out and got a few emails and requests sent off. As he was typing one last email, there was a knock at the door. And when he opened the door there stood Naya on the other side.
“Get the hell away from me!” he hissed at her.
“Marquise, please. I'm so sorry.”
“What the hell do you want?” he sneered at her.
“I just want to talk. That's all.” Naya replied.
“After the stunt you pulled, I don't have shit to say to you.” Marquise hissed.
“I know and again I'm sorry. I was desperate and I didn't know what else to do. Please, you have to believe me.”
“Do you know her ex not only broke into my home but he pulled a gun on me because of you?” he asked.
“No, I had no idea,” Naya replied.
“Well, now you do. Congratulations.”
“You were never supposed to get hurt, I swear. He was only supposed to get her to leave you, that's all.”
“I could've been shot because of you! Hell, I could've been killed! And far be it from me to ever defend her ex, but you could have sent an innocent man to prison! Not to mention that if he had gone to jail, his daughter would be without her father. On top of the war that could've started once again, all because of you.” Marquise snapped at her.
“It got out of hand. I realize that. I shouldn't have called him, I know that now.”
“So what are you expecting? Me to just forgive and forget?” he asked Naya.
“Yes. I'm sorry Marquise. I really am. I never meant for things to go as far as they did.” she replied.
“Not going to happen. I have moved on. And it's time that you do the same, Naya.”
“Marquise, please! Just give me a chance.”
“Go home Naya. Go back to your husband and stay there.”
“I said I was sorry! You don't have to dismiss me like I mean nothing to you.”
“You heard him. It's time for you to go back to your husband.”
When Naya and Marquise looked over Shanelle was standing in the bathroom doorway.
“Who the fuck are you to talk to me like that?” Naya sneered at Shanelle.
“Well for starters, I'm his fiancee. And second, I'm your future Queen. Whether you like it or not I am not going anywhere. Oh and one last thing, I am the woman he loves and will be marrying. Not you.” Shanelle answered.
“You idiotic twit! Who the fuck do you think you are?!” Naya sneered.
“Goodbye Naya,” Marquise said to his ex.
“Are you really standing here and choosing this American mutt over me?!” Naya asked Marquise.
Rather than answer, Marquise slammed the door in Naya’s face. Marquise pinched the bridge of his nose while exhaling slowly.
“How much of that did you hear?” he asked.
“Almost all of it,” she replied.
Marquise let out an explosive breath.
“I shouldn't have opened the door.”
“Did you know she would be on the other side?” Shanelle asked.
“No. I honestly thought she was one of the kitchen staff bringing dinner,” he replies.
“Then it's not your fault. It was fun to watch you slam the door in her face.”
Marquise took a deep breath.
“Naya is testing my patience.”
“Don't let her. Don't let her ruin your mood. And thank you for defending Cass. He never would've been there if it wasn't for her.”
“I don't like him but I would never want an innocent man going to prison because of her.”
“I know. But I’m thankful nonetheless. Now enough about her. Let's focus on you helping me with my lotion.”
A slow smile bloomed across his face.
“Gladly!” he said before picking her up and carrying her to the bed.
They spent the rest of the night enjoying dinner and each other. Later that night while Shanelle was asleep, Marquise was trying to figure out how Naya got past security. He called Alex to find out.
“Alex, I specifically told you not to let Naya anywhere near Shanelle, so explain to me how in the hell did she get past you?” Marquise asked.
“She was given clearance, Marquise. I couldn't stop her.” Alex replies.
Marquise rolled his eyes.
“Fucking Bastien.” Marquise hissed.
“It wasn't Bastien. She went directly to your father.”
“What?!” Marquise asked.
“From what I found out, she requested an audience with him and asked him for clearance to speak with you. And when she presented me and the team with the signed order from His Majesty, there wasn't anything we could do. We can't go against him.” Alex replied.
“For now…if she comes back, you are to stop her immediately. I don’t care what decree my father has signed. I don't want her anywhere near Shanelle. Understood?”
“Yes, Your Highness.”
“Good. Now go get your rest.”
With a curt nod, Alex was gone and Marquise went to bed. The rest of their week was filled with more meetings, introductions, lunch breaks, and courtly lessons squeezed in between them all. By that Thursday, Shanelle was ready to throw in the towel.
“Can I go home now?” she whined while laying in his arms. “I don't like this anymore!”
He snorted.
“To whom much is given, much is required, my love.”
Shanelle groaned.
“Smartass! If I wanted to hear chapter and verse I’d open a Bible.”
“If you went home now you'd miss touring your duchy tomorrow.”
“We're going to see my duchy tomorrow?” she asked.
“Yes, my love. It's important you meet the people that you'll represent,” he replied.
“Finally! What time do we leave?” she asked.
“In the morning my love. You'll even get to meet a few friends of mine,” he replies.
“Friends of yours huh? They wouldn't happen to be the two chaos agents you sent in to disrupt my life would they?” she asked.
“Yes. Those two friends,” he replies.
“So I get to meet Liam and Drake? Interesting.”
“Maxwell and Drake actually. And in their defense, they only did what I told them to do.”
“Okay. I still want to hear from them. And I want an apology!”
“Very well, my love. Let us get some rest and tomorrow we are off to your duchy and South Cordonia.”
The next morning couldn't come fast enough for Shanelle. She was up and ready to go see her duchy. She proved this by practically dragging Marquise out of the palace.
#khoicesbyk#choices#choices stories you play#pixelberry#fanfic#choices fanfiction#king marquise#queen shanelle#king of cordonia#queen of cordonia#king and queen of cordonia#love everlasting#the royal romance#black couple#black king liam#black love#black marriage#my otp#otp#my otp forever#choices fic writers creations#fics of the week
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Haven’t met you yet
As always. I hope that you enjoy reading as much as I enjoyed writing.
A/N: This is a TRR AU. Liam is already married, but see’s Riley and wants his cake. If the readers are receptive this might turn into more than a mini series.
Disclaimers: Most characters are property of Pixelberry
Warnings: NS*FW (+18) don’t read this fic if you’re a minor; period.
Word Count: 1887
Prompts: @wackydrabbles prompt #88 “I meant every word.” will appear in BOLD
Pairings: Drake & Riley
Song inspiration: Haven’t met you yet -Michael Buble
Be Kind: Hit the heart button, leave a comment or reblog. It makes a writer so so happy.
A replay of the Royal wedding of King Liam and Queen Carsyn of Cordonia was playing in the background as she packed her clothes in the small carryon. She giggled when they kissed. Although it was rumored that the king was into black women, something seemed off when he kissed his bride. She had watched this wedding a half dozen times and still couldn’t really put her finger on it. She was headed to New York to stand up in the wedding of one of her sorority sisters. After landing her dream job in Dallas, Riley couldn’t wait to meet her sorors in New York to celebrate. After all, Norah was about to marry the man of her dreams and Riley was truly happy for them.
There was currently no man in Riley’s life and no prospects. Maybe she’d meet someone in Dallas or maybe she was destined for the life of a career woman. Maybe there would be no happily ever after for her. She turned out the lights in her new downtown Dallas apartment, and grabbed her carry on dragging it to the door as she headed to the airport.
She opened the door to see her latest amazon purchase on the door mat. She took a moment to retreat inside to open the box. She was hoping it was delivered before she had to head out. Her pink Bedroom Kandi toy was still packed away lost in the sea of boxes crammed into her guestroom. She knew that she would not survive this long weekend in NYC without some form of sexual entertainment. She was disappointed when she opened the box to find her new toy was smaller than the picture made it look. Her flight left in 2 hours and her uber was downstairs so she shoved the disappointing toy in the side of her bag and headed down.
After the uneventful three hour flight, she finally landed at JFK. Mack was supposed to pick her up from the airport. She stood to the side as people herded to baggage claim to send a quick text. A group of men came from the opposite direction. One was this tall, very attractive Asian guy who looked alot like King Liam. He was with a few other men but there was one in particular who caught her eye. He was beautiful, he had dark hair and the most beautiful blue-grey eyes. The guy who bore resemblance to King Liam smiled and winked at her, while his brooding friend who definitely glanced at her, kept moving. She was snatched from her day dream when Mack texted to say she was outside.
They checked into the Crown Plaza in Manhattan, freshened up and changed into their little black dresses before meeting the girls at a local rooftop lounge for appetizers and drinks before the bachelorette party.
The sounds of Dua Lipa’s “Don’t start now” played in the background and encouraged a slightly inebriated Lauren to shake her body on the empty dance floor. Still licking the wounds behind a very fresh break up she intended to use this weekend to drink her troubles away and vowed to nail a stranger.
The hostess seated a group of gentlemen at the table directly behind the ladies giving Riley, who never sat with her back to the door the best look at the group. It was them. The men from the airport. When they were settled, Riley’s eyes met with the Asian guy’s who was smiling and licking his lips. She rolled her eyes and turned to Kourtney.
“So, how is Gabrielle, is she two now?”
“Yes, she’s great. Busy, but great. That was real smooth. You have an admirer.”
“Ugh, I saw those guys in the airport when I landed. He smiled at me then too.”
“But now there are two of them looking at you like you’re a steak.”
Riley coyly glanced at the group again, this time noticing the dark haired man looking. She blushed and turned back to Kourtney right as the server approached with a whiskey sour, complete with a phone number written on the cocktail napkin.
“How did he know what you drink?”
“Girl, I have no idea. Should I drink this?”
“Sure, they wouldn’t have served it if it had been tampered with. But the real question is are you going to call him?”
“Me? Noooo. What would I say?”
“What do you have to lose?”
“Wait, you have never dated a white guy before have you?”
“Well, no. Not that they aren’t attractive. I just never had one interested. Not all of us find our Prince Harry.”
“You do now. Besides, Chris is no Prince Harry, but he does treat me like a queen. I have always wondered if there are people who would rather be alone than to date outside of their race. Chris is the best thing that ever happened to me.”
“I definitely would date outside of my race if it were the right person. He is gorgeous, I’m still not calling this guy. He’s going to think i’m desperate.”
“You are!”
“I am not!”
“When was the last time you got laid? Mack told me about your toy.”
“Remind me to kill her later. It’s been 8 months, 3 weeks and 5 days. But who’s counting?”
“Exactly,” Kourtney cackled, drawing the attention of the men at the next table.
Maroon 5’s, “Moves like Jagger” started to play as they continued to chat.
“May I have this dance?”
Riley was disappointed to find the King Liam look alike.
“Thanks, but my feet are killing me.”
“That’s too bad,” he said as he flashed her a sexy smile.
Just then she glanced across the rooftop to see him whisper something to his brooding friend. In an instant the guy with the beautiful eyes headed over and slipped the DJ a tip and whispered something in his ear before heading Riley’s way.
“Kourt, shit! He’s coming over here what do I say?”
“Don’t. Let him do the talking.”
He held out his hand and smiled at her and she was sure her panties were ruined.
“Hey, did I get your drink right?” he asked placing her hand in his.
“Actually, yeah you did. Impressive.”
Just then the DJ changed the song to Silk Sonic’s, “Leave the door open.”
The stranger pulled her to her feet.
“Let’s dance.”
His scent was intoxicating, his arms where strong and she could get lost in his eyes. He held her with a familiarity that made her feel at home in his arms.
“So are you going to tell me your name?”
“Drake. And you are?”
“Riley.”
“We don’t have to talk right now. Let’s just dance. Just use my number when you’re ready.”
“Their bodies swayed slowly to the song before her friends pulled her away to the next leg of their night.”
Two weeks later
After a very long weekend in New York, Riley was back in Dallas. She had been there for almost a month and hadn’t met anyone at all. Well, there was Will from work. But she doesn’t date co-workers and she is pretty sure he is gay. In her freetime she goes to the gym, and eats at new restaurants a few times a week, which leads her back to the gym. After a particularly long work day, circuit training and an hour on the treadmill Riley came home and poured herself a very large glass of wine. She filled the tub, lit some jar candles and grabbed her toy and the romance novel that she was currently reading.
She was soaking in bubbles up to her neck when her phone rang, it was Kourtney. Out of all her friends she probably checked on Riley the most. She dried her hands and pressed the speakerphone button.
Hey Kourt,
Hey Ri, what’s new?
Not a thing, work, the gym, dinner, wine repeat.
That’s sad. No human interaction?
Not really. I’ve hung out with Mack and Ben twice but I always feel like a third wheel.
Remember when I told you to call the guy from the rooftop?
Yeah.
I meant every word.
I will think about it. I gotta go. Early morning. Love you.
Whatever, I know when I hit a nerve. I love you too.
Three days later
Riley was as lonely in Dallas as they come. She thought about online dating but wanted something more organic. Kourtney’s words lingered in the back of her mind. Maybe she was right. Riley had nothing to lose by reaching out to the handsome stranger who sent her the drink in NYC. She decided to take the plunge.
The next morning Riley sat on her balcony reading the paper and sipping amaretto flavored coffee when her phone rang.
Hey Mack!
Hey, I am running into church and I know it’s short notice but Ben is out of town next weekend and my college roommate is getting married down in Waxahachie. Please tell me you don’t have plans and you’ll be my plus one.
I’ll have to check my planner. She laughed.
Who am I kidding? I don’t have plans. Free booze, food, and maybe a groomsmen to have a fling with. Count me in…
Yay! She squealed. I will pick you up Saturday morning and we can ride down to the ranch together.
Saturday
The doorbell rings and Riley grabs her clutch and the wedding card she got for the newlyweds before heading down to meet Mack. They catch up while they take the 30 minute drive out to the Walker Ranch where the ceremony is to be held. Mack talked about feeling like an after thought when it came to her boyfriend. Riley mentioned the need for human interaction, more specifically from a man and how the one man she met in New York lives in Europe. When they arrive Riley takes in the vast land and the beautiful event space.
“Savannah’s family owns this ranch? Wow, it’s massive.”
“Yeah, I know at one time they were really struggling to keep things afloat. But it definitely looks like they are doing well for themselves now.”
“Right? I love when family businesses do well. It’s really a gorgeous day for an outside wedding. But we should probably take our seats. The ceremony will be starting soon.”
Mack led Riley to a couple seats on the bride's side. Before long a very serious looking groom and an officiant that Riley could only describe as a King Liam look-a-like stood under a wedding trellis decorated with blush colored blooms. The violinist started to play a beautiful arrangement as the attendants began to descend the aisle.
“All rise and receive the bride.”
They guess all stood and turned to receive Savannah. She was a stunning bride. Then Riley laid eyes on those hypnotic blue-grey eyes. She instantly broke out into a sweat. She couldn’t ever mistake those eyes for someone else’s. He was as beautiful as the first tine she saw him. She swallowed hard and her mouth went dry. Her heart seemed to be pounding out of her chest, she was shaking when she gave Mack’s hand a firm squeeze.
“What’s wrong Ri?”
Before she could answer, his eyes met hers, he bit his lip and her knees buckled.
“Um Ri?”
“It’s Drake from the rooftop in New York..”
@txemrn @pixie88 @secretaryunpaid@khoicesbyk @blackkingliamstan @mom2000aggie @shannonwrote @hopelessromanticmonie @fanjessfic @rideordiechronicles @lucy-268 @dcbbw @darley1101 @maurine07 @burnsoslow @sfb123 @bbrandy2002 @kingliam2019 @schnitzelbutterfingers @lem-20 @choicesficwriterscreations @wackydrabbles
TRR: @twinkleallnight @bebepac @mainstreetreader @romereadingshop @romewritingshop @lem-20 @texaskitten30
#choices fanfiction#choices#the royal romance#fanfic#fandom#fanfiction#drake walker#drake x riley#follow shewillreadyou#kim reads#kim writes
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TAG LIST CLEAN UP
I've never done this, but it's time.
If you wish to stay on my tags, please comment, like or DM me no later than February 15th.
If you don't interact, I will assume you no longer want to be on and remove you. Please don't worry, I won't be offended. Honestly, Tumblr makes tagging a nuisance, so if you aren't reading, I'm fine taking you off.
If you'd like to be added, please let me know.
I'm going to make the following lists, so please let me know which one you'd like to be on.
Permatags: You will be tagged in all works regardless of book/pairing.
OH Only: This is 99.9% of my work anyway, but just in case.
Ethan Only: Only stories about Ethan, Ethan x Casey.
Tobias Only: Only stories about Tobias, Tobias x Casey.
Non-OH: I may write for other stories (likely TRR, if any) if you'd like to be in them only, let me know.
Also, please let me know if you'd prefer not to be tagged in MC Monday, templates, and things of that nature.
And, VERY IMPORTANT, if you are under 18, or wish not to receive NSFW works, please let me know.
NOTE: Delaying the Inevitable is almost over, so while I'm keeping that taglist in place, I don't see the point of adding to it now (unless you really want to be). If you don't choose to go on another list, I will not tag you in other works when DTI ends. If you want to come OFF this list, please let me know. THANK YOU!
Current tags below break.
Permatags: @a-crepusculo @annoyingmillenialnewbie @anonymousrookie @binny1985 @bluebelle08 @bluerosesbloom @brokenmemoriesblog @charisworld @crazy-loca-blog @custaroonie @everybodyscreamsposts @genevievemd @icecoffee90 @jamespotterthefirst @jennieausten @kachrisberry @kalinahonore @lady-calypso @liaromancewriter @lucy-268 @mia143 @mjlbwork @mm2305 @phoenixrising308 @pixelberrygirl @potionsprefect @schnitzelbutterfingers @secretaryunpaid @shewillreadyou @shygirl4295 @socalwriterbee @thegreentwin @toadfrog26 @txemrn @wanderingamongthewildflowers @spookycolorpeanut @mainstreetreader
OH Tags: @aishwarya26 @alina-yol-ramsey @coffeeheartaddict2 @differenttyphoonwerewolf @dorisz @kat-tia801 @panda9584 @parisa-kh @queencarb @swiminthegarden @youlookappropriate @sillydg @rosebudde
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Tag List Cleanup
Hey everyone! It’s been a while since I went through to make sure y’all still want to get notifications from me, so here we are. Below the cut is a list of what I’ve been writing and working on, and all my current tag list categories. Let me know if you want to be added or moved anywhere.
If you don’t reblog, comment, send a message, or let me know by any other method where you want to be, I’ll assume you want to be removed. No hard feelings! I will start using the new tag list on November 1st. I will continue to use my existing tag list until then.
💚💜 xoxo sfb
Permatag: Anything I write.
@alexabeta @anjanettexcordonia @athena-penrose @bbrandy2002 @busywoman @chemist-ana @choiceskatie @cordonia-gothqueen @cordoniaqueensworld @emkay512 @foreverethereal123 @gabesmommie1130 @gkittylove99 @gryffindordaughterofathena @hopelessromanticmonie @iaminlovewithtrr @kat-tia801 @khoicesbyk @kingliam2019 @lucy-268 @mainstreetreader @marshmallowsaremyfavorite @mile9213 @mom2000aggie @nestledonthaveone @phoenixrising308 @pixie88 @queen-arabella-of-cordonia @queenrileyrose @secretaryunpaid @shewillreadyou @sincerelyella @sweatyrysconnoisseur @tessa-liam @theroyalheirshadowhunter @twinkleallnight @txemrn
TRR: Anything Royal Romance/Royal Heir/Royal Finale.
@burnsoslow
Liam x Riley: My always and forever OTP.
@jared2612 @neotericthemis
Liam: Basically the same thing as Liam x Riley, but anything I write that may include just Liam
@amandablink @ao719 @yourmajesty09 @zaffrenotes
TNA: Though seldom, I have written a couple of Nanny Affair fics. I don’t know if or when I will again, but just in case.
@kachrisberry
One Shots: Any stories not a part of a series.
@bebepac @darley1101
A Taste of Cordonia: Not a fic, in this series, I go through all of the books in the Royal saga and review the food and drinks that they have along the way. I add some personal anecdotes and humor as I go. (I know I’ve promised this will come back, I double triple quadruple promise it will be back!)
@bebepac
Sapere Aude: Sapere Aude follows Riley immediately after the final scene of The Royal Heir book 3 as she is invited to join the Via Imperii. It is basically just me writing my version of book 4 before Pixelberry releases theirs.
**While the main Sapere Aude story is complete, I do have a couple of one shots in progress that continue the story, as well as a potential prequel.**
@busywoman @gardeningourmet @hedgehogs-dilemmas @ofpixelsandscribbles @tinkie1973
The Adventures of Uncle Drake: A series of one shots from my Sapere Aude world that digs into the relationship of the Royal Heir, Princess Eleanor and her Uncle Drake.
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Hey, Friends and Followers!
I hope y'all are doing absolutely fantastic! My little space on Tumblr is in need of tidying deep cleaning, and I need YOUR help!
1. TAG LIST UPDATE
Whew, this tag list of mine is a jumbled up MESS!
Can I just take a minute and tell y'all how unbelievably grateful I am that I even have this problem?! For real, Tumblr is the family I never knew I needed, and I appreciate every single comment, like, reblog, ask, message, tag... gah, y'all are so special to me, and I am so, so thankful for YOU! 🥰
Let's talk tags: below the cut is my current tag list. Please help me out by doing one of the following:
Please COMMENT on this post or MESSAGE me personally, and tell me exactly what I need to do with your tag. If you want to follow a certain story/series, don't be afraid to tell me specifically what you want. If you're feeling wild, request a perma tag, and I will tag you in everything. If you are not on my current list, now is the PERFECT time to request a tag!
If you want to be removed completely, there are NO HARD FEELINGS. Things change. Whatever your reason may be, I know how awkward that conversation can be. So, I'd like to make it easy for you: if you do NOT comment or send me a message, I will take that as your respectful request to be removed.
'Likes' on this post are sweet and appreciated, but they do NOT communicate what you want me to do with your tag. Please, please, please comment or message me. 🥰
2. Masterlist
I am going to be updating my Masterlist (I can already hear a few of y'all rejoicing). I want to apologize ahead of time for taking up space in your feed. Please be gracious and patient, and I will get it all figured out quickly. Thank you so much for your understanding!
Tag List:
PERMA
@charlotteg234 @chemist-ana @choiceskatie @forallthatitsworth @foreverethereal123 @jerzwriter @kat-tia801 @khoicesbyk @lovelyladyk88 @lucy-268 @neotericthemis @sarcastic01lily @sfb123 @shannonwrote @shewillreadyou @socalwriterbee @taniasethi @thefrenchiemama
All Things TRR/TRH
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The Missionary’s Daughter
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Boughs & Mockingbirds
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Pour Two Glasses
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All Things TNA
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Misery (TNA)
@burnsoslow @rookiemartin
Ricochet (OPH)
@burnsoslow @thegreentwin @twinkleallnight @jerzwriter
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💛🌼🌼💛 send this to the twelve nicest people you know or who seem to have a good heart and if you get five back you must be pretty awesome 💖✨💖✨
@ezekielbhandarivalleros
@aussieez
@pixie88
@princess-geek
@nikki-2406
@shewillreadyou
@bebepac
@txemrn
@red-rookie
@raisza
@satchellawndamakin
@lovelyladyk88
@all of my followers
Happy Valentine’s Day!
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More below the cut...
Take a trip down memory lane here for my 101 Smiles Masterlist
Day 101 of #101Smiles is the most perfect photo of my two babies together, compliments of the SO TALENTED @sophxwithers who just blew me away and literally brought me an insane amount of happiness with this edit she did of my Sam and Ana together FINALLY. I cannot believe this journey is over, Its actually a little bitter, a little sweet. I was going to do a little ficlet for this last day but I have a lot of exciting things that I am releasing because my smiles are finally done.
Thank you to the lovely @genevievemd for the original idea and for supporting me through this whole ordeal, I appreciate the hell out of you b.
Thank you to the AMAZING crew of tumblr friends I have made that have followed me through this journey, I appreciate you more than you will ever know for following me along on this VERY long journey. Turns out it took me 145 days to post 101 photos. It was a lot of work, but it was SOO MUCH FUN. I got to know my characters more, and seriously, I spent HOURS looking for photos, but how it all came together just makes me so immensely proud.
Thank you thank you thank you tumblr verse for your support and love and just putting up with my shenanigans with these over the top, unrealistic, life that Sam and Ana lived when they were blissfully in love immediately following their wedding.
You guys are finally released from the 101 Smiles Tag list!
Edit Tag list: @genevievemd @txemrn @thefrenchiemama @mainstreetreader @somersetmummy @lady-calypso @lucy-268@shewillreadyou @itsjustwinter @jennieausten @melalicious8383 @kat-tia801 @pixie88 @sfb123 @gardeningourmet @forallthatitsworth @shannonwrote @jerzwriter @nestledonthaveone @obsessedwithdool @wanderingamongthewildflowers @kachrisberry
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Me before you: Chapter 3: Excuse me miss
A/N: This is a TRR AU. Liam is already married, but see’s Riley and wants his cake. If the readers are receptive this might turn into more than a mini series. Enjoy!
Disclaimers: Most characters are property of Pixelberry
Warnings: Language, adult content, mild sexual innuendo.
Word Count: 3468
Catch up: Haven’t met you Yet For Real
Prompts: None
Pairings: Drake & Riley
Song inspiration: Luther Vandross Take you out & Wait for Love
Be Kind: Hit the heart button, leave a comment or reblog. It makes a writer so so happy.
The hot water cascaded down his sculpted body. He groaned as he ran his hands through his luscious chocolate locks. He lathered his shoulders as thoughts of her ran through his mind. He was captivated by her. She seemed to consume his every waking moment. Liam had crossed the line yet again. Every time it seemed his transgressions got more and more out of hand. He refused to allow his friend’s actions to ruin his final couple of days in the states.
Bastien had taken over the King’s detail while they were in Waxahachie for Savannah’s wedding. For the next 48 hours, Liam was not his charge, he was his friend. His thoughts went back to her. She represented hope, possibility, promise. He had no idea what was to come, but he knew that it would be an exciting adventure if she was at his side.
As he pulled his white henley tee shirt over his head, his mind went back to the conversation he had at the reception with his cousin Tyler, who was a cyber-security analyst with the Department of Homeland security. Drake explained to Tyler that he would no longer be sitting with him and the rest of the bridal party because the girl who he had been telling Tyler about who works in advertising, who he met in New York was there, and he intended to spend as much time with her as he could. She was something special. She could be the one. “So you invited her to Sav’s wedding?” he inquired.
“No, actually she is the friend of Sav’s college roommate, Mackenzie, and came as her plus one. I had no idea she would be here.”
“Sounds like fate.”
“What are you saying?”
“I’m saying that of all the places in the world this one person could be, she is here at your sister’s wedding... in Waxahachie, TX. If this girl is the one, you’re screwed. You might as well spruce up your resume. She’s a career woman. She is not going to move to Cordonia for you, and you suck at long-distance relationships. I can probably get you in at my job. My guy Rob in HR owes me a favor.”
“I’ll keep that in mind if I ever get the courage to ask her out,” he told Tyler.
The truth was, he could easily see a future with Riley. She’s beautiful, honest, smart, quick-witted, and kind. His cousin’s words bounced around in his head as he pulled on his favorite distressed jeans giving himself a quick once over in the full-length mirror in the room his Mom had decorated for him at the ranch after she returned to the states when his dad passed.
He opened his laptop and took a look around the room. The Walker Ranch had been in his father’s family for several generations being passed down to the eldest male child, like each generation before. Drake stayed in Cordonia after his father died and was handsomely compensated by the crown. His college education was covered, and he and his sister received a stipend each month. Drake was always taught to do a lot with little and to save the rest. For years he lived at the palace and saved every penny. Being friends with Liam, he learned how to invest wisely and he did pretty well in the stock market. His newest pastime had been real estate investment. He had been buying foreclosed homes in and around Dallas and having his Mom’s brothers and his cousins fix them up before selling them for a generous profit.
He was curious, he was now the rightful owner of the Walker Ranch. It had struggled in the past, but because of his business plans and wise investment, the family business was as strong as it had ever been and his mom was nearing retirement age. What if he and Riley did end up together? He knew the plan was for his cousin Miranda to replace his mom when she was ready, while he retained ownership, but where would that leave him? He pulled up the DHS website and clicked on the careers tab. He was reading a description of a position that he believed he would qualify for, Intelligence Analyst.
Just then Liam plowed through his door without warning.
“Li! What the fuck man?” he shouted as he closed his laptop abruptly.
“My apologies, I hope I'm not interrupting. I just wanted to apologize if I offended you. You were right, any woman can be a lot. Carsyn is not speaking to me, she thinks I'm interested in Riley.”
“You are interested in Riley. She's just not interested in you and it's killing you. Let me ask you something, why is it so hard for you to grasp that a smart beautiful woman would be interested in me over you?”
“It’s just.. It’s not that. I'm not accustomed to rejection. It intensifies my want for her.”
“ I hate to cut our conversation short but I have to head out. I’ve got a few stops to make before I pick up Riley.”
“Then I shall take my leave. Enjoy! Smart man, planning a date when it’s going to storm. I’m sure you won’t have a problem closing tonight,” he said as he left the room.
The evening came and Drake drove along the winding Country Road towards the city. He tapped his thumb against the steering wheel to the beat of Chris Stapleton’s, “Starting Over.”
Then he switched from Prime country to the Heart and Soul station on his XM Radio. If he was going to have her in his life it meant embracing all aspects of it. He knew that music was a big thing for her and although she would listen to a little bit of everything she loved R&B and Jazz. A song by Luther Vandross came on and to his surprise, it was not very different from the country music he listened to all the time. The chorus was catchy and very fitting.
“Excuse me Miss, what's your name? Where are you from, and can I come? And possibly, can I take you out tonight?”
He found himself humming the tune as he stepped into the local Nursery to pick up a houseplant to go along with the Pinot Grigio he bought as a gift for Riley. He decided on a Prayer Plant.
It was relatively low maintenance and he thought it would be entertaining to watch it curl up in darkness. He didn't want to do the same flowers and candy that everyone does. He wanted to take her something that she would keep for a while, and possibly would make her think of him when she saw it. As much as he didn't want to admit it the thought of her dating someone else while he was back in Cordonia was driving him insane.
He was nervous and he couldn't figure out why. They were just going to hear some live music. But he wanted to impress her so badly. He knew that it was more likely that he would end up putting his foot in his mouth but with her, for some reason, it did not matter. When he pulled up in front of her place he put on ChapStick, and reached into his glove box, sprayed on some Chrome, and checked his breath before quickly gathering the gifts for her and heading toward the door. He tucked the house plant under his arm as he smoothed over his clothes as the elevator took him to her floor. A small lump formed in his throat as he approached her door.
She opened the door and his breath caught in his throat as he took in her appearance. She was dressed in a denim outfit with matching stiletto boots and oddly enough, the denim matched his jeans. It would almost appear planned. He was secretly thrilled. She smiled at him and he was sure he forgot his own name for a few seconds. She stretched up on her toes and kissed him sweetly on the cheek.
“Hey Drake, you smell delicious.”
“Hey. Thanks. These are for you.”
“Aww, you brought me a houseplant and wine? I’m not worthy, but I love it. Thank you. Come in! I promise I’m almost ready.”
She sat the plant on the counter and placed the wine in her wine fridge.
“You look greeeeat,” she squealed.
“Thanks. So do you.”
“So how’d you know what kind of wine I like?” she asked as she finished her eye makeup in the mirror.
“Observant, I guess. I saw a bottle in the trash when I was here yesterday.”
“I’ll keep that in mind. Are you ready?”
He stood moving to open the door for her. “After you.” They made it downstairs as a couple of her neighbors made it home from what he only assumed was church. He couldn’t figure out if the staring was due to her outfit or if it was because she was with him. He looked at her in awe as she strutted with confidence to his car.
He opened the door for her and she smiled before thanking him.
He could feel his heart pounding in his chest. She was rattling on and on about the artist performing in the festival and he was secretly praying she wouldn’t ask him a question that required an intelligent answer. She kept touching his biceps and his hand. Her hands were so soft and he was sooo turned on. He hoped that she didn’t notice the bulge in his pants and think that he was a creep. He wondered if she kept touching him because she was nervous too?
“Um, Ri? You good?”
“Yeah, why?”
“You are extremely chatty and you keep touching me.”
“I’m excited. I’ll try to keep my hands to myself, but the way this henley hugs your arms,” she wiggled her eyebrows.
He let out a low chuckle as he quickly glanced at her for the seventh time.
“Are you ok?”
“Yeah, never better. Why?”
“You keep looking at me.”
He grinned keeping his eyes on the road. They were nearing the venue when she glanced at his pants. He immediately assumed that she spotted his retreating erection.
“What?”
“We’re matching you know. People are going to think we did this purposely.”
“Do you care what others think?”
“No, I suppose not.”
“Good because we’re here.”
They parked and he asked her to stay put for a moment. He got out of the truck and grabbed a blanket and wicker picnic basket. He walked around the truck and opened the door for her and she blushed furiously as she stepped out.
They made their way to a free spot among the crowd. Riley noticed a few glares from both men and women, who obviously had an issue with she and Drake being there together. Then she smiled as one woman gave her a smile, wink and thumbs up as she stood to the side watching while Drake spread the blanket and invited Riley to sit. She knew that some people would have opinions of them being an interracial couple, but Drake didn’t seem bothered. In fact, she thought it showed how courageous he was. When another woman mouthed, “That’s a good look!”
She bit the inside of her cheek trying not to smile. The truth was she didn’t need any validation. She knew Drake was a catch. The fact that he was easy on the eyes was a bonus.
“What’s in the basket?”
“Uh, a little something my mom helped me with.”
He opened the basket and pulled out wine glasses, a bottle of her favorite Pinot Grigio, cheese, cashews, summer sausage, deli turkey, sliced cucumbers, grapes, strawberries, whipped cream and 2 brownies. The opening act took the stage and Drake pulled Riley close.
“I hope you’re hungry.”
“I am,” she said coyly as she settled between his legs.
They cuddled for a bit before eating, until one of the performers played a rendition of The Gap Band’s, “Outstanding.” She jumped up and pulled Drake with her. He wrapped his arms around her from behind and swayed back and forth with Riley. She felt so comfortable in his arms, he actually had rhythm. There went another stereotype out the window, it just felt right.
After several acts had gone on and several glasses of wine later Riley settled in his lap as a performer started to play a slower song. “I love Luther,” Riley squealed as she began to sing along.
Knowing love the way I do
I can say for certain that it's true
There's a chance for me and you.
I surely feel like the time is near
The picture in my mind is very clear
I think love has brought us here
I remember not too long ago
I was just a lonely person
With a lonely heart, yeah
And I was hoping there could one day be,
Be a chance
For me to get the love
That I'd been missing
Sometimes love takes a long time
Wait for love
And you're gonna get the chance to love
Wait for love, wait for love oh, my
When you take the chance on love you'll see
It's not a waste of time if you truly believe
The impossible can be..
So hold on tight if you think you're right
Cause nothing hurts as bad as when you see
You gave up too easily
Now I remember spending all my time
On a dream that kept me wishing that you could be mine, yeah
And I was hoping there could one day be, be a chance, whoa
I never stopped believing there could one day be, be a chance
For me to get the love that I'd been missing
Sometimes love takes a long time
Wait for love, and you're going to get your
Chance to love
Wait for love, wait for love
And you'll get the love that you've been missing
Sometimes love takes a long time
But wait for love
And you're going to get your chance to love.
Drake couldn’t help but hang on to her every word. He wondered if she was trying to send him a message through the lyrics. She had a voice like an angel and when the song ended he was breathless.
“Ms. Riley sings too?”
She giggled as she rested her head on Drake's shoulder, her back to his strong chest. He fed her grapes then strawberries with whipped cream soliciting jealous glances from some nearby onlookers. She made sure to let her lips and tongue graze his fingers. For a few blissful moments, they both silently enjoyed the closeness.
“You know, this is pretty cool,” he whispered in her ear.
She smiled as his breath tickled her ear. Feeling the effects of the wine, she paused for a few moments before she responded.
“What’s that?”
“This. Us. The festival. It all just feels right.”
She wordlessly looked up at him. She wondered if she could will him to kiss her with her “come get it eyes.” Suddenly, a torrential downpour covered the venue, leaving Drake and Riley scrambling to gather the blanket and basket before sprinting to his Jeep. Before they could get there he stopped snaking his arm around her pulling her close.
This was it, he was going to do it, it was now or never. If she was the onehe wanted to look back at their first date and tell a romantic tale of their first kiss in the rain. Now was the time. He leaned in and when she opened her eyes her lips found his instantly. It was everything she expected and more. It was hungry and passionate and lustful and it made her lady parts twitch. When he pulled away he watched her for signs of regret, but her eyes said she wanted more.
“Hurry, get in,” Drake urged her as he took the time to throw the basket and blanket in the back.
They were both soaked. She laughed hysterically when he finally got inside.
“This entertains you, does it?”
She nodded as she continued laughing, her eyes were clenched tightly.
He went back in taking her lips again as it continued to storm all around them. Her hands roamed his body and her eyes went wide when she made contact with the bulge in his pants. Another stereotype out the window…Drake cupped the back of her dripping head with his left hand deepening the kiss while his right hand explored the soft skin of her thigh as a soft moan escaped her. Suddenly his phone rang, “Mama’s Song” by Carrie Underwood blasted from his pocket startling Riley. Drake huffed and looked at her with apologetic eyes before answering.
“Mom? What’s up?”
“I’m so sorry for interrupting your date Drizzy.”
Riley smiled.
“Mom, what’s wrong?”
“The power is out and the generator didn’t kick in. I gave Larry the weekend off..”
“I’ll be there as soon as I get Riley home safely. Sit tight.”
“Thanks Driz. How’d it go? Did you kiss her?”
“Mom! She can hear you.”
“Hi, Mrs.Walker.” Riley chimed in.
“Hi, sweetheart. Did he kiss you?”
Riley laughed again.
“Bye Mom!”
Drake ended the call and turned to Riley, cheeks flushed red.
“I’m sorry.”
“For what?” She asked as he pulled out of the parking lot.
“For the way, tonight is ending. For my Mom.”
“Nothing could ruin today. Not even your Mom Drizzy,” she laughed again.
‘Geez, Ri that was below the belt.”
His comment made her think about his bulge and she began to blush.
“Are you blushing?”
“Maybe.”
“Why?”
“Oh, it’s too embarrassing to share.”
“Now you know I won’t stop until you tell me.”
When they pull into her neighborhood the entire area is pitch black. Her building was also dark.
“Good thing I have candles.”
“Or you could go back to the ranch with me,” he said shyly.
“Really? I don’t want to put anyone out.”
“It’s just Mom and I. Liam and Carsyn should be out for the evening. Besides, I promised you dinner and it’s Sunday, I bet my mom cooked.”
“I can’t meet your Mom looking like this. I’ll be ok.”
“Riley, I’m not leaving you alone in the dark.”
“If you want to spend more time with me just say that.”
“Fine, I want to spend more time with you and I’m not leaving you alone in the dark. My Mom would kill me. Pleaaase! I can get you one of Sav’s outfits. I promise it will be an adventure.”
“Okay, I’ll go. But only because you’re so cute when you beg.”
He bit his lip. “You haven’t seen anything yet.”
“Drake Arrington Walker!” she warned.
“Too much?” He smiled.
When they arrived at the ranch, Drake showed Riley to his room and gave her towels and a change of clothes while he went to help with the generator. She quickly showered, pulled her hair up into a messy bun and moisturized with his Nivea lotion that she found on the counter she walked back into his bedroom pulling on the leggings she borrowed. She was still bare from the waist up when the door opened. Her back was turned when she looked over her shoulder to reprimand him.
“Drake!”
“Riley, it’s me, Liam.”
Riley screamed as she scrambled to cover herself.
“Get out!”
“My mistake. I thought Drake was in here. But this, you are much better.”
“Get. Out.”
“Come on, what’s a little fun between friends?” he asked as he closed the door.
Before she could answer Drake barreled into the room, his fist connected with Liam’s jaw before he tackled him.
“Have fun with me you bastard, I told you to leave her the fuck alone,” he yelled as Bastien pulled Drake off of Liam. Riley watched the entire scene in horror from the corner.
“Get the fuck out Li!”
After Bastien escorted Liam back to the guest house, Drake checked on Riley.
“Are you hurt? He didn’t touch you did he?”
“No, I’m more embarrassed than anything. He walked in without knocking while I was changing.”
“Well, you don’t have to worry about him.”
“What in tarnation is all that racket back here?” Bianca asked as she turned the corner.
“Just Li being a creep. Everything is fine Mom.”
Riley stood when Bianca entered the room.
“Riley, this is my Mom, Bianca. Mom, this is my Riley.”
His eyes went wide as soon as the words left his mouth. He grimaced as Riley extended her hand to his Mom. Bianca pulled Riley into her embrace instead.
“It’s nice to meet the girl who makes Driz nervous.”
“Mom!”
Riley laughed.
Come on darling, I know y’all were supposed to get dinner. It’s Sunday so I cooked some pot roast, mashed potatoes, carrots, and green beans and for dessert, banana pudding funnel cakes.
“Oh my God, Mrs. Walker, that sounds amazing. Drake, you were holding out on me.”
“Not, really. Maybe I wanted to cook for you first.”
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TRR: @twinkleallnight @bebepac @mainstreetreader @romereadingshop @romewritingshop @lem-20 @texaskitten30
#choices fanfiction#the royal romance#drake walker#drake x riley#me before you#fanfic#fandom#fanfiction#trr#trr au fanfic#naughty liam#follow shewillreadyou#jazz drizzy#kim reads#kim writes#kim reblogs
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Six(ish) Sentence Sunday
Preview: Chapter 30 - Delaying the Inevitable (Series)
(Tobias x Casey, Ethan x Casey)
“She was just delightful!”
“She can be. She can also be a royal pain in the ass.”
“Well, the best people usually are. Besides, anyone dealing with you too much is bound to be a pain in the ass on occasion.”
“Hey!”
“You should have invited her for dinner.”
“Well… I couldn’t do that, Dad. Because we will have another guest too.”
More below break...
_______________
“Are you sure these are the right directions?”
“This is what Ethan gave me. He specifically said to follow these and not GPS, or we’d get lost. Why?”
“Because… these roads, they're awfully familiar… "
_______________
“How the hell could you blindside me like this?”
_______________
“Tobias?”
“Yes?”
“Who the hell is Angelica? And why is she texting you at midnight?”
Preview: Chapter 7 Strike Out - Their Start (Series)
(Tobias x Casey)
“Do you want me to kick his ass, Casey? Because I’ll gladly kick his ass for you?”
“You look entirely too cheerfully while saying that, Bryce?”
He shrugged, “Anything for a friend.”
“Well, thanks. But I’m going to be the one to kick his ass. On the field, and I am going to hit a grand slam home run off of that SOB if it is the last thing that I do.”
“That’s the way to do it, Case!” Elijah encouraged.
“Casey,” Ethan said gravely.
She rolled her eyes before she turned to face him, expecting a lecture about professionalism or some other crap she didn’t want to hear right now.
“Yes, Ethan.”
“If you can pull that off, I will personally guarantee you a raise and a permanent position on the diagnostic team.”
“Really, and I just wanted to kick his ass for fun. Now, I have a stake in this!”
Permatags: @a-crepusculo @annoyingmillenialnewbie @anonymousrookie @binny1985 @bluebelle08 @bluerosesbloom @brokenmemoriesblog @charisworld @crazy-loca-blog @custaroonie @genevievemd @icecoffee90 @jamespotterthefirst @jennieausten @kachrisberry @lady-calypso @liaromancewriter @lucy-268 @mm2305 @phoenixrising308 @pixelberrygirl @potionsprefect @schnitzelbutterfingers @secretaryunpaid @shewillreadyou @socalwriterbee @thegreentwin @toadfrog26 @txemrn @wanderingamongthewildflowers @spookycolorpeanut @mainstreetreader
@choicesficwriterscreations
#six sentence sunday#choices fic writers creations#sunday six#open heart fanfic#choices fanfic#delaying the inevitable#their start series
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Simping softness prompts: “ holy crap, I thought you were dead! Never do that to me again!”
Liam & Riley
Thanks for the ask! When I first looked over the list, this particular prompt caught my eye, and I thought to myself ‘I know someone is going to send me this one, what the hell am I going to do?’ And of course it was the first/only one I got!
Once I figured out how to make a story out of it, the rest came easy!
(Prompt pulled from this list. Feel free to send me more!)
Word Count: 957
Warnings: Adult language, innuendo, otherwise it’s pretty tame.
A/N: This story takes place pre Sapere Aude.
A/N 2: Thank you @phoenixrising308 thank you for pre-reading, and naming this! I don’t know what I would do without you.
Tags: Listed below, if you want to be added or removed just hit me up!
All characters belong to Pixelberry
***
Riley groaned as her arm reached to her bedside table, blindly slapping her hand around looking for her ringing phone. Whoever this is, is going to be tried for treason as soon as I’m awake enough to sign the paperwork. “This better be good.” She groggily greeted the caller.
“Brooks?”
The somber tone in Drake’s voice woke Riley up immediately. “Drake? What’s the matter?” She looked at the bed next to her to find it empty. Liam hadn’t come home from his guys' night yet.
“I...can you come over to my place?”
She was already out of bed, rushing to the closet to get dressed. “What’s wrong? Is Liam ok?”
“Just co --”
The call dropped, Riley pulled the phone from her ear and noticed that the screen was blank. “Ugh...fucking shit wireless charger. You’ve got to be kidding me.” She dropped the phone, finished getting changed and ran to the front door. “Mara, we have to go. Now.” She ordered as she shuffled down the hall, trying to put her shoes on as she walked.
“Your majesty?” Mara questioned as she followed behind the queen.
“Drake called, something’s wrong. He said I need to go to his cabin. My phone died before I could get any more information.” She stopped when she reached the bottom of the grand staircase and turned to Mara. “See if you can get a hold of Drake.”
“Of course, your majesty. Should I call in for backup?”
“No, that’s not necessary, can we just go now please?”
“Yes ma’am. Wait here, and I will bring the car around.”
Drake didn’t live far from the palace, but the car ride seemed to take forever. Riley watched out the window, willing the scenery to move faster, as she tapped the pads of each of her fingers against her thumbs repeatedly. Mara hadn’t been able to get a hold of Drake, she also made a few unsuccessful attempts to reach Liam’s phone.
Once the cabin was in view, Riley had her seatbelt unhooked and her hand on the door handle. As soon as the car slowed enough, she hopped out and ran to the cabin. She rushed through the door and looked around. “Where is he?”
“My queen is here!” Her head snapped in the direction of the slurred statement to find Liam trying to stand from his spot on the couch, smiling widely, arms outstretched, eyes half closed. He was drunk.
She walked up to him and slapped him on the shoulder, causing him to fall backward onto the couch and burst into a fit of laughter. “Holy crap, I thought you were dead!” She turned to Drake pointing an angry finger in his face. “Never do that to me again!”
“Hey, I tried to explain to you that he was shit faced. It’s not my fault you don’t know how to charge your phone.” Drake held his hands up defensively.
Before Riley could retort, she felt her arm being tugged. She turned to face Liam, who had managed to get himself upright, and was trying to pull her closer. “Love, I missed you, come sit with me.”
She chuckled and sat next to him on the couch. “Hey baby, how are you feeling?”
“Much better now that you are here. But you’re too far away, sit closer.” She slid closer to him, their thighs touching. “No, closer.” She arched an eyebrow at him, and he patted his lap in response. She shook her head and repositioned herself so that she was sitting on Liam’s lap.
“Is this better?”
“No, but I suppose it will have to do since Drake is sitting right there.” He tilted his head in his friend’s direction on the other end of the couch.
Riley turned her attention back to Drake. “How did this even happen? He’s totally blasted, and you’re just fine?”
Drake shrugged. “Your husband sucks at drinking games.”
“Do you want to go home now, Liam?” She placed her hands on either side of his face and brushed a kiss against his forehead.
He smiled and nodded. “Did you bring the car with the privacy partition so that we could…” He attempted to wink subtly, but in his state all he was able to do was blink both eyes.
She couldn’t help the burst of laughter that escaped her, she clapped her hand over her mouth to muffle the sound slightly. “No baby, Mara just grabbed the first car she could. We wanted to get here as fast as possible.”
“Aww, because you missed me so much like I missed you so much?”
“Yes, that’s exactly why. Come on, you going to be ok to walk to the car?” Riley stood, extending a hand out to Liam.
“If I say no, will you carry me?” He slapped his hand against hers before linking their fingers together.
“Nice try, your majesty. Come on, be a big boy and walk by yourself.” She helped him walk a few steps before looking over her shoulder to Drake. “Thanks for calling me, maybe next time try cutting him off before he’s in this deep?”
“Just wait until I get you alone, then I’ll show you how deep I can get.” Liam slurred as he ambled toward the front door.
“Jesus Liam!” She slapped his arm.
He stopped and turned so they were face to face. “Yes love, that is what you will be screaming when I show you.” He kissed her on the nose and continued walking.
Riley turned her head to glare at Drake who was cackling at the interaction from the couch. “Have fun with all of that, Brooks.” He saluted her as she lifted her free hand and flipped him off before exiting his cabin.
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#choices the royal romance#choices the royal heir#choices the royal finale#the royal romance#the royal heir#the royal finale#trr#trh#trf#play choices#choices stories you play#liam x riley#liam x mc#trr fandom#trr fanfic#trh fandom
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Book: Open Heart (after book 3)
Word Count: 1456 (+/-)
Warnings: Language, angst, maternal death
A/N: You guessed it; we did another Drunken Drabbles last night (which if you ever want to play, please join us! My buddies @chemist-ana, @jstawriterbee, & @kat-tia801 joined me last night--check out their DD! They actually have smut!), and this one is brought to you be Deep Eddie's Vodka. As far as the challenge? I broke every. single. rule. First of all, I passed out before I could schedule to post this, so here I am, 2.5 hours late. Second, I didn't use the prompt. There is literally no prompt to this. Third, I'm well over 1000 word. And finally, there is no smut. Nada. Zilch. What the hell happened last night? *rubs head* Some characters and plot belong to Pixelberry. Also, no editing or pre-reading with this bad boy, so please forgive me! Enjoy! 😎
***
Depositing a dollop of hand sanitizer in her palm, newly appointed Chief of Obstetrics Dr. Tatum Erikson escorts a nurse out of a labor patient's room. “Let’s go ahead and start that amnio,” she orders as she rubs her hands together. "300 bolus followed by 80 an hour. Call me if--" the chime of her pager interrupts her. "Shit."
"Ma'am?"
Tatum rubs her temples. "Sorry--um--" she looks back at her pager. "--call me if those decels don't resolve in thirty minutes--" she begins to jog down the birthing center's corridor, heading towards the stairs to exit the unit.
She bolts down the six flights, reaching the ground level at a rapid speed. She rounds the corner, pushing past the double doors next to a large red-and-white illuminated sign: Emergency. She sees the commotion ahead and a patient being transferred from a stretcher, not responsive.
"I'm Dr. Erikson," she frantically calls out over the chaos of the room. "I was paged 911. What've we got?" As a seasoned EMT rattles off vital signs and history, Tatum instantly recognizes Karla Hogan, a patient she saw this morning at her 38-week check-up appointment.
Oh, God, no... Please no...
"...she was found unresponsive at the scene of the MVA. Asystole. CPR in process for 17 minutes--"
"Epi? We've given epi?"
"Yes--"
"Atropine?"
"Maxed."
No, no, no. This can't be happening…
"Doctor, how would you like to proceed--?"
"Put a goddamn fetal monitor on my patient," she barks, turning to a nurse nearby. "You," she points, "page OB STAT Emergency overhead. I need an OR now--"
"It won't make a difference," bellows a cold, baritone voice from the doorway of the room.
Tatum freezes, the hairs on the back of her neck standing on end. She knows that hauntingly deep voice: a voice that once made her giggle incessantly during the day while he purred her name late into the night; a voice that encouraged her, comforted her, believed in her all through medical school; a voice that once laid claim to her hand and her heart--that is until that voice found her in bed with his best friend. She knows that frigid tone anywhere.
"Ramsey," she mutters.
"A postmortem c-section?" He condescendingly questions, strolling confidently into the room. "She's been down for how long--?"
"But, if these chest compressions have been adequate, there's a chance--"
"She was gone before they even started--" he nonchalantly interjects as he begins testing the patient's reflexes.
"Doctor Ramsey," she chides before being abruptly interrupted by a trauma nurse.
"Dr. Erikson, I think I hear a heartbeat, but it's low and slow." Tatum nervously nods, taking a few deep breaths.
"That's good enough for me," she kindly thanks the nurse. "Alright, team," she boldly orders, "Let's get her ready for a cesarean." She turns to a nearby technician. "Where the hell is my OB team?"
"They've been paged--"
"Page them again," orders Tatum.
"But, doctor--"
"Page them again," Tatum's tone becomes more stern as she starts grabbing surgical materials. Slipping on a scrub hat, she turns to look into a pair of familiar, crystal blue eyes. "When's the last time you did surgery, Ramsey?"
The tall provider sardonically chuckles. "It's been a while," he crosses his arms, "but, it's not happening right now--"
Tatum scoffs. "Let's get her prepped people. Move!"
"Dr. Erikson," Ethan hollers, a warning in his tone. "You will not be performing this--"
"Watch me." Tatum fervently assists the nurses and technicians in positioning the gravid body. "If you've got a problem, take it up with the chief. This is my call--"
"Already have," Ethan snidely rebuttals, "and it's my call." Tatum stops applying her surgical mask, slowly turning her attention to his towering frame. Her wide eyes slowly trace down from his face to the embroidery of his white coat: Dr. Ethan J. Ramsey, Chief of Medicine.
Tatum blinks her lashes in confusion. "Where's Dr. Banerji?"
"Not here," Ethan smirks, raising an eyebrow. "Now will you be reasonable?"
"Reasonable?" She feels the anger burning inside her as she fights back the stinging pain of tears. Her eyes glisten with earnest pleading. "Ethan," she beckons under her breath, "We could save a life."
Ethan runs his hand over his face, allowing his fingers to rest against his chin. "Tatum, I--"
"Please. Do this," she swallows deeply, her voice reducing to a whisper, "for me?" Ethan's gaze fixes on his former love, a flash of memories flood before his eyes leaving the pair in a palpable stillness.
"Nurse," he calls out from over his shoulder, "I need a size eight glove."
***
"You want me to--"
"I can do it."
Ethan and Tatum walk in silence to the waiting room to retrieve Karla Hogan's husband. Recognizing him instantly, Tatum invites him to follow him to a more private room to talk.
"Just--just say it, Dr. Erikson." Tatum stuns in her steps, slowly turning to face the tearful husband and father-to-be. "Please don't make me take one more step, one more second not knowing that the love of my life--that she, my Karla--" his voice falls into sobs.
"We--we did everything--" Tatum's voice runs hoarse as tears drip from her cheeks. She clears her throat. "Mr. Hogan, I--I--" A sudden tunnel of darkness clouds around her head, the room falling silent. She feels her heart begin to panic, thundering in her chest as her breathing becomes more shallow. She's had this difficult discussion before with family members; but death in the maternity ward is never something one should get used to.
Suddenly, Ethan gently puts a hand on Tatum's shoulder, a comforting touch that always brought her back to reality. She takes a few deep breaths, looking up at him. He gives a curt nod as he squeezes her shoulder, stepping forward to talk.
"Mr. Hogan, we did everything we could…"
Tatum slips off her scrub cap, letting platinum blonde wisps cascade down her face. All she can picture in her head is Karla, how she was full of hope this morning‐‐they both were. And in the blink of an eye
"... but thanks to this skillful doctor right here," Tatum is pulled from her thoughts by Ethan's words as he points to her. "--your newborn baby girl is waiting for you, recovering in our Neonatal Intensive Care Unit."
***
After leading the emotional father up to meet his daughter, Tatum turns on her heel, making her way back to her laboring patients in the birthing center. But, before she exits the NICU, she discovers Ethan finishing a conversation with one of the neonatologists. Their eyes meet.
“Proud of you today, Tate,” Ethan offers a crooked smile.
Tatum dramatically steps closer to Ethan, crossing her arms as she raises an eyebrow. “Pardon me,” she lifts a hand up to cup her ears, “but did you just say, ‘You were right, Tatum; I was wrong’?”
Ethan pinches between his eyes while his other hand rests on his hip. “I’m never wrong--”
“Today you were--” she jovial pokes at him.
“You got lucky--”
“And you’re still bitter--”
“‘Bitter’?” Ethan scoffs, “of you--?”
“That someone’s medical intuition rivals your own--”
“Dare to dream, Dr. Erikson, but we both know exactly what your intuition is capable of--” The moment the words left his lips, a painful apologetic look plagues Ethan’s eyes as he watches the stunned hurt flash across hers. A thick silence floods between them, both of them unsure how to recover from such a low-blow of a remark. Tatum stares at the floor, unsure if she should just walk away.
“Tatum, I--” she shakes her head, waving her arm to dismiss the inevitable apology. She just wasn’t sure when she would stop paying for the sins of her past.
“So,” she tries to change subjects as a mischievous grin grows across her face. "I missed the memo. You're my boss."
"I'm your boss," he chuckles, crossing his arms.
"Hrmmm," Tatum raises her eyebrows, turning towards the door as a silence falls between them, again. She motions for the automatic door to open.
"Hrmmm what?" Ethan questions, turning towards her as the doors slowly open.
"Oh, I was just thinking," she lowers her voice, placing her hand on his arm. Ethan bites his lower lip as his cheeks begin to flush. His eyes flutter down to her lips before drifting back to her gaze. He swallows thickly.
"A-About what?" His tone matches hers.
She giggles letting go of his arm. She makes her way through the automatic doors and back en route to her department. But, not before she calls out over shoulder in a dark, sensually husky voice: "It wouldn't be the first time--" she twirls on her heel to look at him one more time, giving him a wink and a knowing smile, "--sir."
***
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#open heart#ethan ramsey#open heart fanfiction#ethan ramsey fanfiction#pixelberry#choices OH#choices OPH#drunken drabbles
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You guys. @txemrn and I started this brilliant little shin dig- Drunk(en) Drabbles last night, and sure enough, while under the influence of alcohol and each other, we wrote drabbles.
We decided to start with Open Heart (what but you never write OH!?! I know 🙈) With a little help from @kat-tia801 we had a prompt and the only rules were, we had to be AT LEAST buzzed, and we had to start at the same time. Oh! And we also had to continue to drink while we wrote.
Book: Open Heart (definitely post book 3)
Characters: Ethan Ramsey and MC Scarlett Hunter
Series Warning: Please for the love of god, understand that I am over the age of 21 and am in no way condoning underage drinking or over drinking to the point of being sick, blacking out, or worse. Want to participate? Message me or @txemrn!
Word Count: 395
Prompt will be in bold: You couldn’t handle me, even if I came with instructions.
Title: Sapphire
A/N: I have been itching to write OH for a while, and here is my first dive into it. Please be gentle. ALSO I wrote this and I was def drunk. So. Take that into consideration when reading. Also. @txemrn you are my soul sister. And I adore and love you more than you will ever know. Thank you for being my writing partner, my friend, and my rock. You seriously make my life infinitely better just by being in it. ILY.
***
He sat there, with his leg anxiously bouncing as his fingers slid over the rough scruff of his beard that she seemed to love so much. He gripped his thigh with his free hand, taking a sharp breath as he watched, her. Dr. Scarlett Hunter. Her body was the thing of fantasies. Every curve was perfect as if she were designed, and not just made.
Not only was she beautiful, but she was also brilliant. But everyone already knew that. Her hips swayed to the deep bass beat, her hands raised high above her head as her eyes fluttered closed and her eyelashes fanned across her cheeks. She was intoxicating, mesmerizing, perfect, and all his.
Every single part of him that argued with her about being here tonight, faded away when he saw that little black dress that crept up her thighs, effortlessly seducing him. Her long blonde hair following the rhythm of her body. The red bottom stilettos that curved her long legs up into every single man's fantasy. It was any wonder that she chose him. Some guy that was was too old for her and at one time affectionately called her ‘rookie’.
Her ocean blue eyes opened and focused on his, and Ethan took a sharp breath through his teeth. She’s fucking perfect. Her body rocked and swayed as her eyes darkened into the sapphire gems that he knew all too well. She slowly stepped closer, every step accentuated by the roll of her hips until suddenly, he could smell her. The unique smell of Scar. Sunshine and roses. Only this time it was mixed with gin, her poison of choice.
Ethan leaned back on the plush lounge as she stood over him, his eyes darkening to match hers.
“Are you enjoying yourself?” Scarlett purred loud enough for him to hear.
“More than you know.” He growled as he reached for her hips.
“Oh baby. You couldn’t handle me, even if I came with instructions.” Her full lips turned up into a coy smile as she gracefully moved her body just out of his reach.
What was once fueled by lust is now driven by something deeper… something that was less familiar, but was also undeniable. Love. And damn if Ethan Ramsey was going to be told he couldn’t handle her.
She was his. And he would never let her forget it.
***
I don’t know if we will continue this series with OH but if you want to be added to my OH tag list (because I can’t resist writing about Ethan Jonah Ramsey) just comment below and I will 100% add you to an OH tag list.
Perma Tag: @txemrn @secretaryunpaid @pixie88 @thefrenchiemama @shewillreadyou @melalicious8383 @somersetmummy @sfb123 @mainstreetreader @nestledonthaveone @jerzwriter @headoverheelsforramsey @adiehardfan @khoicesbyk
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Welcome to the team
Summary: Ethan isn't happy about the new addition to the diagnostics team. Set directly after 3.4 (Ethan's POV)
Book/Pairing: Open Heart/ Ethan Ramsey x f!MC (Casey Valentine)
Category/Rating: Fluff/Teen
Word Count: <1000
Disclaimer: Characters and some dialogue owned by Pixelberry
Prompts: @wackydrabbles Have you lost your mind? (Will appear in bold)
@choicesmonthlychallenge March Day 18: In Between
A/N: I love that Ethan has become super soft when it comes to MC, but I really miss him being a grumpy bastard, so here's a drabble with him being all moody and cynical 😁
"Please welcome your newest team member!" Bloom announced, gesturing towards the door as a familiar figure entered the room.
"Oh my god..." Casey muttered.
"You!"
"Hello, Ethan. Dr. Tobias Carrick, reporting for duty."
Ethan's eyes flew to Bloom.
"Is this some sort of joke? Him?" he demanded, nodding towards Tobias.
"What exactly is the problem Ethan?" Leland asked, eyes narrowing. "If you had been faster and more efficient, then I wouldn't have had to make the decision for you."
"You planned this. You knew two of those candidates you had me interview weren't suitable. I wouldn't be surprised if you already had him lined up before you poached Baz from the team."
"Excuse me? Are you sure you want to continue down this road of accusations, or are you forgetting who is in charge around here?"
Ethan tried hard to control the anger building inside. But as his eyes darted between the smug smiles on Tobias' and Bloom's faces, he felt as though he was a volcano on the verge of erupting.
Both Casey and Harper remained silent, choosing not to get involved, but as Ethan's gaze flickered towards Casey he noticed that the look on her face was screaming for him to stop talking.
"I can't deal with this right now," he replied, fighting the overwhelming urge he had to tell Leland to shove his job up his ass.
He made his way towards the door, stopping just shy of it.
"Bringing him in is going to destroy this team," he stated, before storming out of the office.
He walked down the corridor not knowing where he was going, but knowing he needed to distance himself from the situation.
The quickening sound of clicking heels behind him told him that Casey was following. He knew she would, well he'd hoped she would. As she caught up with him, he felt her hand grip around his arm.
"Ethan, stop."
Just having her near him was enough to reduce his anger back down to a simmer. But as he turned to face her, he realised she had brought the look she had given him in the office with her.
The usual warmth of her green eyes had been replaced with a piercing stare and the luscious lips that had left a trail of kisses over every inch of his body the night before, were pinched together tightly to complete her disapproving look.
Instead of the calming effect he had become accustomed to, he now felt like a naughty school boy who'd been dragged into the principles office.
"Have you lost your mind? Or are you trying to get fired?" she snapped.
"No, I'm not trying to get fired, which is exactly why I had to walk out. I can't just stand there and accept Bloom bringing Tobias into the team and act like I'm not extremely bothered by it. He's not a good fit Casey."
"I know you and Tobias have a complicated history..."
"You only know some of the story. I feel like Bloom is playing some sick little game, just like he was last year when we first met him. He said then that competition is the father of excellence, but our team has no place for competitiveness. Working together is what makes us succeed. You've seen glimpses of how Tobias works yourself, you've seen how competitive he is. It's all a game to him. He wants to outdo me at every given opportunity and patient care will suffer because of it."
"What about after the attack? He helped then when he really didn't have to."
"I am eternally grateful that everyone came together to help save your life. But it was a high profile case. When it comes to Tobias, cracking that case was going to make him look good, so I'm not surprised he jumped at the chance to get involved."
"Do you really believe he's that selfish? Is there not even a small part of you that thinks he helped because he wanted to do it for you? The man who was once his best friend?"
He thinks for a moment.
"Maybe. But I don't really care what his motive was on that day. All that matters is that you walked out of there."
He felt her wrap her fingers around his, giving them a tight squeeze.
"I don't trust Bloom, or his decisions any more than you do. And if you think I should be wary of Tobias, then I definitely will be. But please don't give them the satisfaction of knowing they have got to you like this. Just try to grit your teeth and get through the next couple of days, see how things go. I know it's going to be hard, but I will be on your side and by your side through all of it."
She placed a gentle kiss on his cheek.
"Come on let's get back in there."
They walked back to the office hand in hand and found the other three still in the room.
"Feeling better now buddy?"
Ethan felt his anger rising as Tobias flashed him a charming smile, but he forced it back down as he thought of Casey's words.
"Hmm, yes. This was all just a little unexpected."
"Hey, no hard feelings. I'm looking forward to working together again," he replied, with his hand extended.
Ethan looked at his hand then at Bloom who was watching them closely.
"Yes, it's certain to be interesting," he said returning his gaze to Tobias and taking his hand for a single firm shake. "Welcome to the team."
***
Thank you so much for reading 💗
***
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