#sophia x bastien
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⚜️Smoke & Mirrors
On-going Series, King Liam Rys x Queen Riley Brooks-Rys - OTP -
Face Claims - Lucas Bravo, Lorena Tarantino
Artwork by @artbyainna (1) Artwork by @artbyainna (2) Artwork by @artbyainna (3)
Artwork by @rosefuckinggenius
Series premise: Hidden in the shadows, poised to challenge the status quo are enemies of the state. Loyalties and honesty of family, and of friends, will be tested. ‘Keep your friends close, your enemies closer’.
-1-Old Habits Die Hard, 1/7/23 *The joys of family are celebrated; the exhilaration of new relationships is explored. The sorrows of fading love and betrayal.
-2-I Will Fight For You, 1/21/23 *Olivia starts her fight to remain in Amalas' life. Bastien may have lost credibility with his King, but his truth will be the start of a new reality for Cordonia.
-3-What's Important, 2/4/23 *Don't ever forget what's most important. The ones we love.
-4-As The Smoke Clears, 2/18/23 *Celebrating Valentine's Day of lovers, family, and/or friends. The search for Lena continues in Monterisso.
-5-The Search Begins, 3/11/23 *The search for Lena continues in Monterisso.
-6-You Are The Reason, 4/8/23 *Arriving back at the Monterissan palace, discoveries are uncovered, and fears are realized.
-7-We're Ready for Anything, 5/11/23 *Liam and Riley find out more about their twins and Lena is captured by Interpol.
-8-The Mirror Doesn't Lie, 6/21/23 *Preparations for the Celebration Ball continue for the upcoming Saturday at the palace to officially inform the court of the princes and their expected arrival date in August. Drake's revelations about his future are revealed with memories of the past for Liam. Lena, under custody with Interpol is transferred to Lyon, France.
-9-Hidden in Plain Sight, 9/9/23 *It's the evening of the Celebration Ball and the big reveal of the Royal twins. Lena is interrogated by Interpol. Liam and Leo discuss a potential threat to the kingdom.
-10-This I Promise You, 10/24/23 *Liam and Riley welcome their twin boys to the world. The Interpol/black ledger revelations are discussed with the Royal Council.
-11-The Lantern Festival, 11/26/23 *The Cordonian Royal Family join in the celebrations for the annual Valtorian Lantern Festival.
⚜️Marabelle
On-going Series, Prince Liam Rys x Lady Sophia Taylor (Sophie)
Face Claims - Lucas Bravo, Lucy Thomas
Artwork by @artbyainna
Artwork by @rosefuckinggenius
Series Premise: An American teenager from New York City is introduced to the world of a small European country and its society of royalty, nobility, and commoners. How will her life story be transformed? Will this new adventure bring her happiness...or regret?
Teaser, 1/13/23
Prologue, 1/27/23
-1-My New Home, 2/11/23 *Sophie begins her Cordonian adventure and moves in to House Beaumont. It all starts here.
-2-Once Upon A Time, 3/1/23 *Sophie is introduced to Marabelle, all thanks to her encounter with her personal 'knight in shining armor'.
-3-Falling, 3/25/23 *Marabelle is settled in her new home at the Beaumont stables. Sophie starts to prepare for the start of the social season that begins with the Beaumont Bash.
-4-The Beaumont Bash, 4/29/23 *Sophie prepares for her first Beaumont Bash and is introduced to Bertrand's love interest/Drake's sister/future ally, Savannah Walker.
-5-Your Breath of Freedom (The Beaumont Bash 2), 6/4/23 *Sophie is introduced to the Royal court, Maxwell meets Daniel.
-6-The Snake in the Garden, 8/5/23 *Sophie joins the ladies of the court at the palace for the garden tea party hosted by Madeleine (the Queen in waiting). At the palace, secrets are revealed.
-7-It's A Dream Come True, 9/30/23 *It's the evening of the Masquerade Ball. Bertrand and Maxwell formally introduce Sophie to King Constantine as Lady Sophia of House Beaumont and officially joins the court as a noblewoman. Prince Liam and Sophie spend more time together and reach a milestone.
-8-A Princess for Prince, 12/30/23 *Sophie receives a personal invitation to the New Year's Eve Celebration Ball at the palace.
-9-The Awakening, 1/20/24 *The Duke of Ramsford, Barthelemy Beaumont returns to House Beaumont. Liam prepares for the polo match charity fundraiser in support of disaster relief in Portavira. Sophie attends classes at the University of Cordonia. King Constantine reveals his illness.
-10-The Game of Kings, 2/15/24 Liam and Sophie practice for the charity polo match. Leo is on a cruise ship in the Mediterranean where he meets a woman. Speaking with his father, Leo abdicates the throne. Liam sends Sophie a Valentine’s Day gift.
-11-The Game of Kings 2, 4/14/24 It is game day! Let the games begin... Liam discovers Leo’s plans to abdicate. Sophie is targeted by an opponent.
⚜️Turning the Page
On-going Series, King Liam Rys x Lady Riley Brooks
Face Claims - Lucas Bravo, Sitarra Hewitt
Artwork by @artbyainna
Artwork by @bayleedraws
Series Premise: As Riley Brooks journeys through life as a single parent in New York City. an epiphany strikes as she contemplates the future for herself and her two-year-old son.
Prologue, 6/28/23
-1-Memories, 7/15/23 While remembering bittersweet memories of her time in Cordonia, Riley comes to the realization that there are still unanswered questions to pursue from the night of the Coronation Ball.
-2-The Sacrifice, 8/26/23 Riley is reunited with Maxwell, as Daniel attempts to lift Riley from her feelings of melancholy at Club Kismet. Liam meets with Olivia in Lythikos searching for another perspective on the night of his coronation and his father's transgressions against her and Riley. Madeleine discloses a secret.
-3-Regrets, 9/23/23 Maxwell meets William for the first time as Riley continues to confide her truth to her Cordonian friend. Olivia attends a Royal council meeting at Liam’s invitation. Madeleine announces her pregnancy.
-4-I'm The Problem, 10/13/23 Maxwell returns to Cordonia and sets out to find out a solution for Riley while simultaneously keeping her secret. Madeleine announces her truth. Liam and Leo make plans to visit New York City.
-5-Against All Odds, 11/4/23 Liam and Leo arrive in New York City. As Leo represents Cordonia and attends the U. N. conference, Liam, with the assistance of security intelligence, finds and reunites with Riley, uncovering her secret.
-6-Right Here Waiting, 11/18/23 After spending time with his son, Liam begins his journey to repair his relationship with Riley.
-7-Because I Love You, 12/9/23 Liam and Riley spend their first day as a family with William. A threat is revealed in Cordonia, while security is tightened in New York. Liam is called back to Cordonia.
-8-Home is Where the Heart Is, 12/21/23 Madeleine reveals her threat to the Royal council, while Liam makes initial preparations to bring Riley and William home to Cordonia. William, with Riley's help, decorates a gingerbread house for his father. Liam arrives in New York on Christmas Eve.
-9-Now and Then, 1/8/24 Riley and William arrive in Cordonia
-10-Somewhere Only We Know, 2/7/24 Riley and William settle into the palace with Liam. Olivia pays a visit and extends an invitation to Riley for a visit to Lythikos. Madeleine argues with her father in Morocco.
-11-A Step back in Time, 3/16/24 Liam, Riley and William arrive for a weeklong retreat in Lythikos. Olivia takes Riley 'under her wing ' to mentor and to offer advice for her return to court. Olivia was determined to get her friend into the right frame of mind and to ultimately get the sparkle back in her eyes.
⚜️Round Robin 2024
⚜️King Liam
Appreciation Week 2023
Character Appreciation
King/Historian
Foodie/Baklava
Childhood/Family
Friends/Relationships
⚜️One- Shots:
All is Fair in Love & War Art Commission @/ainna
Cappadocia
Ti Amo Molto
⚜️Two- Shots:
*October Weekend Retreat **The Morning After
*Christmas Traditions **Christmas Traditions 2
⚜️Meet My MC / OC
♡ Queen Riley Brooks-Rys, my OTP Artwork by @rosefuckinggenius FC Lorena Tarantino Smoke and Mirrors Series ♡ Lady Riley Brooks FC Sitarra Hewitt Turning The Page Series ♡ Lady Sophia Taylor (Sophie) FC Lucy Thomas Marabelle Series
⚜️Crimes of Passion
Cheyenne Rose
FC Kaia Jordan Gerber
⚜️Sunday Six
W.I.P. Wednesday
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5, 8, 12, 13, 21 ;)
5) If you had to choose a favourite out of all of your multi chaptered stories, which would it be and why?
The History of Us
Because it remains the fic I’ve poured all of myself into. I wrote about Drake dealing with alcoholism and the impact it has on Camille and Lily. Tough subject matter but I loved writing it. I wrote from personal experience too so a part of myself is in it.
8) Where do you take your inspiration from?
I mainly take inspiration from songs. Sometimes a lyric will hit me and I’m like, ‘I need to write something based around that.’
12) Who is your favourite character to write for? Why?
OLIVIA FUCKING NEVRAKIS!!! I know I should say Camille but Olivia is so fun to write. I love writing her as quite sassy, a bit of an asshole to Drake but ultimately, she’s a softie - this side only reserved for her goddaughter Lily, of course.
13) Who is your least favourite character to write for? Why?
I feel guilty saying this but it’s a toss up between Liam and Hana. I guess I find them quite dull in canon which is why I rarely write them because I can’t get into their heads. So when I read fics that show them in an interesting light, I’m really happy!
21) Tell me about another writer(s) who you admire? What is it about them that you admire?
How much time do you have lol
@sirbeepsalot because she always writes difficult subject matter but she writes it masterfully. I always enjoy reading her stuff, even through tears lol
@dcbbw because her writing is pure poetry.
@fromthedeskofpaisleybleakmore because she writes epic series and you can tell that she really puts her heart into it.
@jovialyouthmusic for her really creative and unique ideas eg The Many Lives of Drake Walker and for her fic about Bastien and Sophia, who is slowly becoming quite a sex god in this fandom haha!
There are others, apologies if I’ve missed anyone!
Thanks for the asks @saivilo x
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MFackenthal Reviews - minipost TRR - June 2019
TRR
Epiphany by @ao719
In this alternate version of the story of Liam x MC, Liam strung Daniella along until her name was cleared and then out of fear still chose Madeline. Dani is heartbroken. When she meets and starts to have feelings for another man, Elijah, will Liam be able to truly let her go? And do we want him to? I can’t decide! I need people to read this with me so we can debate. So far, I’m a big fan of Elijah. Plus, I need other people to yell at the author with me because she totally left the last chapter at a cliff hanger and I need to know how a confrontation with Liam and Elijah is going to go and I need to know NOW!
Forever by @debramcg1106
Liam, Riley, and Drake tried to make the love they each shared for each other work to disastrous effects. This is now a completed series – so come see how they finally got their happy ending. Driam fans – you need to read this!
Vengeance by @ao719
I’m tagging the first chapter of this series because it’s possible (but not likely – yet reality) that I’m behind in reading. So catch up with me! In this series, our main character – Colette … let’s just say she holds a grudge. Come find out why I have my eye on her because she seems to be putting dear Drake in a tough position.
Sweethearts by @elles-choices
Those who don’t learn from their past are doomed to repeat their mistakes. Liam really needs to do some more learning from his past in this series. But damn if he and Lola aren’t hot in those moments where they’re making new memories.
Listening to Her Heart by @bobasheebaby
Perceval entered Athena’s life at one of her lowest times. He builds her up and helps her survive while Liam continues his farce of an engagement tour with Madeline. When Liam finally breaks things off – who will Athena choose? Come read this series and then get lost with me in the amazing worlds that @bobasheebaby has created.
Guarded Hearts by @lolablackwrites
It’s possible that instead of sleeping last weekend, I binged this series. I felt fucking great after – so I highly suggest doing the same. Come fall in love with Bastien. See a deeper side to Bertrand. Come live in a little fear of the King and Queen. And, lastly, come see why Alice is an amazing MC!
The Lion Prince by @laniquelovewrites
As we all know – I don’t do favorites on this blog and in this list … but I do shoutouts and, seriously, everyone should read this fic. It features amazing artwork, you’ll feel nostalgia for Disney movies, and you’ll laugh histerically at Liam and mini-Drake. I laughed so hard that I had to share this one with my husband. He doesn’t know the characters and he laughed. Read it.
A Twist in the Tale by @whenyourheartskipsabeat
Riley was poisoned, but she’s okay and we’ve learned some big news about the next generation. How do Liam and Riley react upon learning they’re pregnant?
Protect and Serve by @jovialyouthmusic
Sophia has come to Cordonia to serve the King and Queen. So far, Drake and Leo have hit on her. Bastien has refrained from doing so – but she’s definitely caught his eye … I’m only on chapter 2, but I can’t wait to catch up!
In the Shadows by @ao719
See Madeline finally be taken down! The writing is so good, you’ll be able to essentially see the bullets flying.
The Revelation by @the-everlasting-dream
Brief recap: Shortly after Drake gets the girl, the girl loses her memory. The girl has to decide all over again who to choose. She tentatively chooses Drake, again. Now: Drake is dating the girl but there are things he hasn’t told her yet. Kiara is threatening to out Drake before he is ready. Drake and Liam are finding their way back to friendship. It’s angst, it’s drama, it’s heartache – another amazing series to catch up on.
The Mark: The Partnership by @ownworldresident
Liam has a small obsession with the woman who tried to kill him. In defense – they shared some mind-blowing sex before that event. Drake is trying his best to help Liam see the error of his ways.
Drake’s Diary – The Homecoming Ball by @fluffy-marshmallow-heart
A retelling of TRR from Drake’s perspective. This penultimate chapter is full of fluff and drama!
In Another Life – by CGW ( @ao719, @speedyoperarascalparty, @leelee10898, @cocomaxley)
The group imagines what would happen if they hadn’t meant when they did. Will they all still find each other? Read this series to find out.
The Return by @ao719
The love of Liam’s life returns after she left 4 years ago – learn why she left, why we hate Constantine, and if Liam will get a happy ending after all.
Coming Home by @speedyoperarascalparty
Quench your thirst for Drake here. NSFW
TTS: Part 48 by @choicesfanatic86
Oh my gosh – she’s back!!! Welcome back @choicesfanatic86! Liam and Riley have not been able to make things work, but Riley is pregnant and Liam is determined to show her how they could make it work. Andy and Maxwell have been able to make things work. The besties talk about life.
Fan Art
https://jadequarze.tumblr.com/post/184599188852/aiyooooo-%CF%89-its-the-gang-from-trr-i-was by @jadequarze
#MFackenthal Reviews TRR#This post represents 100s of fics - literally#Guarded hearts alone has 34 chapters#I read all 34 chapters in like 36 hours#It was worth it#Liam x MC#Drake x MC#Driam#AU#Bastien x MC#Maxwell x MC#sorry no Hana x MC in this one
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Des concerts à Paris et autour
Novembre
08. Vincent Epplay (fest. FAME) – Médiathèque musicale de Paris|Forum des Halles (gratuit)
08. Zola Jesus – Point FMR
08. The Wedding Present plays "George Best" – Petit Bain
08. The Horrors – Trabendo
08. Lea Bertucci + Sun Color + Gaël Segalen + Minifer – Les Nautes
09. Matt Elliott (fest. Monte le son) – médiathèque musicale (gratuit)
09. Chantal morte + Lèche-moi – Cirque électrique
09. Electric Electric + Carrageenan + CIA débutante – La Station
09. Fractales – Totem
09. The World + Exit Group + Youth Avoiders – La Mécanique ondulatoire
09. Annabelle Playe (Biennale Nemo) – Le Cube (Issy-lès-Moulineaux)
09. Qui & Trevor Dunn + We Insist! – Le Triton (Les Lilas)
10. Red Zebra + Pour X raison – Supersonic (gratuit)
10. Golden Oriole + Lotte Anker + Réservé aux insensés (fest. Coax) – Centre Barbara-FGO
10. Clemix + Nina Harker + Heimat – Shakirail
10. The Disease – L'Alimentari
10. Lumpy & The Dumpers + Pierre & Bastien – Olympic café
10. Maud Geffray + Voiron + Krampf – Petit Bain
11. Emmanuelle Parrenin + Volvo – Le Zorba (gratuit)
11. Keith Fullerton Whitman + Chris Watson + Thomas Köner [+ Biosphere : ANNULÉ] + Éliane Radigue (diff.) – Maison de la radio
11. Andi (Synthicide) – Magazine bar
11. Honey Harper + Couleur TV + Saada Abe + Rovar17 & Syporca Whandal + Medhy Briand – La Pointe Lafayette
11. Rien virgule + Mette Rasmussen & Julien Desprez + Sarah Terral (fest. Coax) – Instants chavirés (Montreuil)
12. Marcia Bassett + Samara Lubelski + :such: – L'Armony (Montreuil)
13. Thisquietarmy + Emboe + Grim Lake – Supersonic (gratuit)
13. Liars – La Maroquinerie
14. Shannon Wright + Elias Dris – Gaîté lyrique
14. BJ Nilsen + Thomas Tilly + Les Acharnistes – Instants chavirés (Montreuil)
15. Igorrr – La Maroquinerie ||COMPLET||
15. Nosfell – Café de la danse
16. NSDOS + Watchin' with Milesdavisquintet ! (Biennale Nemo) – La Dynamo (Pantin)
16/17. Kristoff K.Roll : A l'ombre des ondes (fest. d'Automne) – La Pop
17. Exoterrism + Jean Bender + c_c – L'International (gratuit)
17. Trisomie 21 + The Saint-Cyr + Rendez-Vous – La Machine
17. Dälek – Batofar
17. Marisa Anderson – Le Zorba
17. Up-Tight + France – Instants chavirés (Montreuil)
17. Transglobal Underground feat. Natacha Atlas + Asgaya – Le Tamanoir (Gennevilliers)
17. Perc + Henning Baer + Absl + Phuong-Dan – Concrete
18. Mr D & The Fangs + Nick Grey & The Random – Supersonic (gratuit)
18. Stranded Horse (fest. Monte le son) – médiathèque musicale (gratuit)
18. Essaie pas + Nova Materia + Colombey – La Maroquinerie
18. Kristoff K.Roll : A l'ombre des ondes (fest. d'Automne) – La Pop
18. Operant + Verset Zero + Kollaps – Olympic café
18. Synopterus + In Zaire + Paulie Jan – La Station
18. Planetary Assault System + Kmyle + Parfait + Raär – Nuits fauves
18. Terence Fixmer + Morbeck + Umwelt + H880 + Paramod + Millimetric – tba
18. Max Richter : Sleep – Le Studio|Philharmonie de Paris ||COMPLET||
19. Ulver – La Machine
19. Agnostic Front + Bishops Green – Gibus
19. Thurston Moore – Café de la danse
20. Ulrika Spacek + Halo Maud – Point FMR
21. Sun Kil Moon – Gaîté lyrique
21. Metz + Decibelles + Drahla – Trabendo
21>24. Pierre-Yves Macé & Joris Lacoste (festival d'Automne) – Espace Pierre-Cardin
22. Hørd + Moment – Olympic café
22. Annabelle Playe & Hugo Darcier + Robert Piotrowicz + Floris Vanhoof (fest. Bruits blancs/Biennale Nemo) – Anis Gras (Arcueil)
23. Sophia + Dead Horse One – Espace B
23. Clan of Xymox + My Great Blue Cadillac – Bus Palladium
23. Modeselektor (dj) + Tijana T + Simo Cell – Rex Club
23. Carl Michael Von Hausswolf + Julien Ottavi + Jean Philippe Gross (fest. Bruits blancs/Biennale Nemo) – La Muse en circuit (Alfortville)
24. Emma Ruth Rundle – Espace B
24. Laibach – Trabendo
24. Vincent Epplay + Häk – Studio Plus 30
24. Escape-Ism + Subtle Turnhips + Laurence Wasser – Olympic café
24. Arnold Dreyblatt + Prescott + Borja Flames (BBMix fest.) – Carré Bellefeuille (Boulogne-Billancourt)
24. Ensemble Ire (Kasper Toeplitz & Franck Vigroux) + ErikM + Benjamin De la Fuente (fest. Bruits blancs) – Anis Gras (Arcueil)
24. Zombie Zombie + Aufgang – Le Tamanoir (Gennevilliers)
24. Scorpion violente + Badaboum + Theoreme – Instants chavirés (Montreuil)
25. Stranglers – La Cigale
25. Mount Kimbie – Trianon
25. Mark Lanegan – Café de la danse
25. Protomartyr + Pierre & Bastien – La Maroquinerie
25. Raymond D. Barre + Deleaurivière + Vonverhille + M-O-R-S-E + Mundopal + Apulati Bien – La Station
25. Etienne Jaumet, Peter Kember & Céline Wadier : La Monte Young Tribute + Colleen + Accident du travail (BBMix fest.) – Carré Bellefeuille (Boulogne-Billancourt)
25. Dynatron + Christine + Mlada Fronta – La Clef (Saint-Germain-en-Laye)
25. Camerata Mediolanense chante Pétrarque (fest. Les Festives) – église Saint-Germain-de-Paris (Hardricourt)
25. Phase fatale + Silent Servant + Varg + Broken English Club + December – La Machine
26. Quator Tana joue "Mishima" de Philip Glass – Collège des Bernardins
26. Ropoporose + Die!Die!Die! – Batofar
26. James Holden & The Animal Spirits + Groupshow (Andrew Pekler, Jan Jelinek & Hanno Leichtmann) + Paalma (BBMix fest.) – Carré Bellefeuille (Boulogne-Billancourt)
27. Marilyn Manson – Bercy|Arena
28. Chapelier fou – Le 104
28. John Zorn & Abraxas + Autoryno + Garth Knox – New Morning
28. Totorro + La Jungle – Badaboum
30. Kukangendai + Golem méacanique – Instants chavirés (Montreuil)
30. Simon Fisher Turner : The Picture from Darkness (Biennale Nemo : Optical Sound) – Le Cube (Issy-lès-Moulineaux) (gratuit)
30. Hector Oaks + Takaaki Itoh + HeaT – Rex Club
Décembre
01. The Driver + Arnaud Rebotini + Yan Wagner + Maud Geffray + Cabaret contemporain – Trabendo
01. Go!Zilla + Osica – La Station
01/02. Puce Moment : "Crumbling Land" (fest. New Settings) – théâtre de la Cité internationale
02. Carl Craig & Francesco Tristano + Bambounou + Chloé feat. Vassilena Serafimova : tribute to Steve Reich + Fabrizio Rat : La Machina (fest. Marathon!) – Gaîté lyrique
02. Frustration + Komplikations + Plomb – La Clef (Saint-Germain-en-Laye)
03. Depeche Mode – Bercy|Arena
07. Eloïse Decazes & Eric Chenaux (fest. Monte le son) – CHRS Louvel-Tessier (gratuit)
07. Les morts vont bien + Petass + Paolo Técon – La Station
07. Diemo Schwarz : musique pour "Wolfson" d'Anne Ropers (Semaine du bizarre) – théâtre Berthelot (Montreuil)
08. Punish Yourself – La Maroquinerie
08. Balladur + L'Etabli + Ficken Chipotle – Le Chinois (Montreuil)
09. Plug (Biennale Nemo) – Le 104 (gratuit)
09. Roro Perrot – Le Chair de poule (gratuit)
09. Charles de Goal + Rendez-Vous + Super Besse – La Maroquinerie
09. Pascal Comelade, Ivan Telefunken & Charles Berberian + Sophie Agnel & Jérôme Noetinger (dessin) (Semaine du bizarre) – théâtre Berthelot (Montreuil)
09. Norscq + Jesus Crise + Dj Click + Quantizer (a.k.a. Dither) + Black Sifichi + Amadeo 85 + Sylvgheist Maëlström – La Marbrerie (Montreuil)
10. Chocolat Billy & Sam Mary (Semaine du bizarre) – théâtre Berthelot (Montreuil) (gratuit sur résa)
12. Le Club des animistes (Vincent Epplay & Ravi Shardja) (Semaine du bizarre) – théâtre Berthelot (Montreuil) (gratuit sur résa)
12. Zayk + Hyperculte – Centre culturel suisse
12. Snap + Martin Messier (Biennale Nemo) – La Dynamo (Pantin)
13. Thee MVPs + Los VVS + Stratocastors – Supersonic (gratuit)
12. The Ex – Instants chavirés (Montreuil)
13. KasbaH + Transglobal Undeground feat. Natacha Atlas (fest. Les Aventuriers) – Espace Gérard-Philippe (Fontenay/Bois)
15. Jessica93 + Bryan's Magic Tears – La Maroquinerie ||COMPLET||
15. New Model Army – Trabendo
15. The Frank & Walters – Petit Bain
15. Déficit des années antérieures + TWVSTCG (Semaine du bizarre) – théâtre Berthelot (Montreuil)
15. Cannibale + Marietta + Frustration (fest. Les Aventuriers/ 10 ans de Born Bad) – Espace Gérard-Philippe (Fontenay/Bois)
15. Oiseaux-Tempête – Paul B. (Massy)
15. Rodhad + Vril + Kobosil + Nur Jaber – Concrete
15/16. Éléonore Auzou-Connes, Emma Liégeois & Romain Pageard jouent "Musiques de table" de Thierry De Mey – La Pop
16. Ensemble électron (Semaine du bizarre) – théâtre Berthelot (Montreuil) (gratuit sur résa)
16. Marius Loris + Les Hôpitaux (Semaine du bizarre) – théâtre Berthelot (Montreuil) (gratuit sur résa)
18. Jessica93 – La Maroquinerie
23. SP23 – Glazart
2018
Janvier
13. Amenra – Gaîté lyrique
23. Uriel Barthélémi (Biennale Nemo) – Le Générateur (Gentilly)
24. Mouse on Mars – Petit Bain
25/26. Emmanuelle Parrenin & Tomoko Sauvage – La Ferme du Buisson (Noisiel)
26. Chloé – Gaîté lyrique
26. Alex Augier + Paul Jebanasam & Tarik Barri + Daniele Ghisi + Rune Clerup + Alexander Schubert (Biennale Nemo) – Cité de la musique|Philharmonie
30/31. Pierre-Yves Macé & Joris Lacoste (festival d'Automne) – L'Apostrophe (Cergy-Pontoise)
31. Doplereffekt & AntiVJ : "Entropy" (Biennale Nemo) – L'Avant-Seine (Colombes)
Février
02. Uriel Barthélémi, Gaspar Claus & Maude Trudet (Biennale Nemo) – Le Générateur (Gentilly)
03. Frustration + Crisis – Petit Bain
03. Nils Frahms – Yoyo|Palais de Tokyo ||COMPLET||
09. Croisières Dolori + France sauvage – Instants chavirés (Montreuil)
15. Franck Vigroux & Laurent Gaudé : "Le Chant des ombres" – L'Ecam (Le Kremlin-Bicêtre)
16. Radian + David Rothenberg & Scanner (Biennale Nemo) – La Dynamo (Pantin)
19. Son Lux – La Cigale
24. Omar Souleyman – Yoyo|Palais de Tokyo
Mars
01. The Pains of Being Pure at Heart – Petit Bain
07/08. Ryuchi Sakamoto & Shiro Takatani (Dumb Type) : "Dis.Play" – Maison de la Culture du Japon
23. PurForm + TRDLX (Biennale Nemo) – Grande Halle de La Villette
23. Pierre Henry + Anabelle Playe + John Chantler + Bill Orcutt + Anthony Child (Présences électronique) (Présences électronique) – Maison de la radio|Studio 104
24. Alva Noto & Anne-James Chaton : Alphabet (Biennale Nemo) – Grande Halle de La Villette
24. Else Marie Pade + :such: + Bellows + Phonophani + The Caretaker (Présences électronique) – Maison de la radio|Studio 104
25. Jacques Lejeune + Chris Corsano + Ben Vida & Marina Rosenfeld + Mads Emil Nielsen + Gravetemple (Présences électronique) – Maison de la radio|Studio 104
Avril
21. Igorrr – Trabendo
26. Ought – La Maroquinerie
28. She past away + Lebanon Hanover + Selofan – La Machine
28. Arcade Fire – Bercy Arena
30. Koudlam + Bajram Bili + Pointe du lac – La Maroquinerie
en gras : les derniers ajouts / in bold: the last news
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Protect and Serve (revised) 2
Following on from Bastien's confession of his feelings for Sophia - what will her reaction be?
In this AU, Bastien is loyal, efficient and decent, just as he should be.
Bastien's Confession Part 2
Do you think I’ be so rude as to eat a guest’s dessert? There was an agonising pause which he had to break with another reply. Come down and find out.
On my way
He rose, swiftly putting on boxer briefs and dressing gown. After a while there was a soft knock on the door and he went and opened it to see her standing there, also wearing a dressing gown, holding a spoon, a winsome smile on her face.
‘Sophia…’ He drew her in and closed the door, wrapping his arms around her, inhaling the scent of her hair, her soft curves moulding into him. She was a little shorter than him and her head nestled into his shoulder comfortably. She relaxed into him, sighing softly and they stayed there for a few moments. When she pulled away and raised her face to his he couldn’t stop smiling as he pushed her hair back off her face and leaned down to kiss her full on the lips, cradling her face in his hands. She rose to meet him, the kiss soft and tender. His heart hammered and his head swam, leaving him as giddy as a teenager.
‘So – dessert?’ she prompted.
‘I’m afraid it’s in the ice box – in my bedroom.’ he said apologetically ‘I can bring it out to the lounge if you like.’
‘There’s no need for that. Just take me to it.’ Her tone was husky, her pupils large. He took her hand and led the way to his bedroom. It was significantly different to the lounge - oak panelled like his office, the bare boards of the floor dark and varnished, a rug beside the bed. There was a desk beside the window with a padded swivel chair. One wall was taken up by wardrobe and cupboard doors and a dressing table where he left his cufflinks, comb and clothes brush lying, neatly positioned. He fetched the dessert from the ice box next to the desk, and she boldly sat on the edge of the bed. She kicked off her shoes, letting her bare legs dangle enticingly. She arched an eyebrow.
‘Aren’t you having any?’
‘I most certainly am – may I have the spoon?’ Puzzled, she handed it to him, realisation dawning on her face as he sat on the swivel chair and wheeled it across so he sat in front of her. He dug into the rich dark mouse and held out the laden spoon for her to taste. Silently they shared the dessert, one after the other, eyes locked on every mouthful, on every look of surprise and pleasure, every lick of their lips until the dish was empty. He ran his finger round the inside to get the last trace and held it out for her with a challenging smile. Eagerly she took it into her mouth and sucked, her eyes never leaving his. He felt heat in his groin and saw her eyes darken.
He cupped her cheek in his hand and leaned forward to press his lips to hers, a taste of the dessert still lingering. Without breaking the kiss, carefully he got off the chair and moved toward her. Together they lay side by side on the bed, kissing softly, hands starting to explore each others’ contours. He relished the discovery of her soft breasts and the curve of her hip and soft belly. Respectfully he steered clear of sneaking a hand under her dressing gown, letting her set the pace. Their soft kisses deepened, lips opening and tongues exploring, and he felt himself harden.
Sophia ran her fingers through his hair and down to the back of his neck, circling to his collarbone and pressed her palm to his chest. He felt her start to search for bare flesh, smoothing down over his abs but not venturing any lower. He shifted, hoping to keep the secret of his size a little longer. He was large in every way – not unmanageable, but generous in length and girth.
Thankfully she stopped for breath, and rolled away from him a little. He reached out to feel the softness of her blonde hair, gazing into her eyes. She didn’t flinch, returning his scrutiny and smiling.
‘You took me by surprise. I didn’t think you were attracted to me. You’re a busy man, Bastien, and hard to read.’ He chuckled in reply.
‘To be fair, at first we were pretending to be attached, so that couldn’t have been easy to interpret. Tell me - what drew you to me?’
‘Everything.’ She said simply. ‘Just a little frisson at first, then you grew on me.’
‘Everything? I’m not perfect, Miss Turner.’
‘Nobody is, but I’ve not found anything against you so far.’ She ran her finger along his jaw. ‘Seeing you in the pool clinched it for me. You looked like Poseidon emerging.’
‘I do feel at home in the water. I lived by the sea as a child and learned to swim very young.’
‘Didn’t you feel anything before I bounced you in the training hall?’
‘I liked you the minute I set eyes on you, but I knew you were a lot younger than me and didn’t presume to think you’d be interested. Not only that, but if I knew, and didn’t have such a demanding job, we might have ended up here much sooner.’
‘I’ve not long come out of a relationship.’ She confessed. ‘I was glad to be somewhere different, get my teeth into a new job. I wasn’t really looking for anything, so I was genuinely irritated getting hit on so much.’
‘I could tell. Cordonian men don’t hold back – and neither do the women.’ Sophia’s expression changed.
‘Well that explains a few things. I think I had a few more propositions than I realised.’
‘I was pleased when you said you’re attracted to men.’ Bastien murmured, and kissed her again. He pulled gently at the belt to her silky dressing gown. ‘May I? She bit her lip mischievously.
‘Please do.’ Softly he pulled at the garment, revealing a silky slip and slid his hand under it, over her belly and up to let his palm glide over her breasts. ‘Mmmm, that’s nice.’ she breathed as he bent over her to kiss along her jawline and down to her collarbone. She rolled toward him, letting her knee rest on his thigh. He felt along her side, down to her thigh, feeling the side seam of her panties. Her hand went to his belly, sliding down…
‘Wait..’ he cautioned, but saw her eyes widen in shock as she found her target.
‘Bastien, you’re – you’re pretty big.’ He rolled over on his back in resignation.
‘I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have let you get so far. I usually give my partners a warning.’
‘It’s okay, it was just a surprise.’ She answered. He ran his fingers through his hair.
‘Sophia, I’m not going to make love to you tonight, but it’s not because I don’t want to. The truth is, it’s not easy for most to accommodate me.’
‘I would imagine so’ He turned over to meet her gaze.
‘Indeed. I have to plan the first time with a new partner. I’ve never hurt anyone, though there was one time I had to give up on full penetration. Every other time, it just took time and patience to allow my partner to stretch for me. Every woman I’ve slept with has come back for more – sex isn’t just penetration. I promise you I have a lot more to offer.’
‘I’m glad to hear it.’ They fell silent for a while, the mood broken. ‘Can I stay and sleep with you tonight?’
‘As long as we don’t sleep naked I think I can remain chaste – can you?’
‘I’m willing to give it a try.’ He sat up and took his dressing gown off, wearing only his boxer briefs and pulled back the covers, getting in and beckoning her. She took her gown off too and slipped into bed beside him. She lay on her side, putting her arm over his chest and nuzzling into his shoulder. He turned off the light and listened to her breathing.
After a while, Sophia realised he was muttering under his breath.
‘What’s that?’ she asked, and he sighed.
‘I’m reciting all the duchies of Cordonia and all the Dukes and Duchesses so that I don’t give in to temptation. It also bores me to tears and helps me to get to sleep.’ She laughed softly.
‘I’m sorry Bastien, I can go back to my room if you like.’
‘No, just turn your back to me please.’ She did as she was told, and he turned toward her to spoon her, throwing his arm over her side and resting his hand on her hip. She sniggered slightly
‘Now I know how much you’d like to go further.’
‘Shhh temptress, go to sleep. I’ve a busy day tomorrow.’ Sophia closed her eyes and smiled to herself. She liked the word ‘temptress’ and resolved to live up to it…
------
Bastien woke bright and early, opening his eyes to see Sophia fast asleep beside him, lying on her back with her arms thrown out, dusky blonde hair spread out on the pillow and her face serene. He wasn’t as young as he used to be, and it was less common for him to awake aroused – but this morning he had reason to be. He slipped out of bed carefully, going to the bathroom and closing the door quietly before taking a cold shower, which solved one problem. The other one was whether to wake her or leave her sleeping. It was a long time since he’d woken with a woman in his bed, and a rare occasion generally as he didn’t like sharing his living space.
The decision was made for him as she stirred and stretched. He went to kneel on the bed and lean over to kiss her forehead. He felt his heart skip as her green eyes locked onto his and a slow smile came to her lips, closely followed by his name. Her voice was husky and he couldn’t think of a better thing to greet him first thing in the morning. He had a sudden vision of them lying together, limbs tangled. She reached up to feel the scratch of his beard on her palm. It took a supreme effort of will not to slip under the covers with her, but he needed to go training and he didn’t want to hurry things between them.
‘Sophia.’ her name fell from his lips effortlessly and he realised that now he had admitted his attraction there was no limit to how deep he was falling. ‘I’m going to the training hall, how about you?’ She sat up and blinked sleepily ‘Do you want me to see you back to your room? Are you concerned about being seen?’ She smiled at him and stretched.
‘We started the ball rolling by making sure we’d be seen. We’ve no reason to hide. I’ll be fine.’
‘Now I have a real reason to call out anyone who ogles you or makes a pass. I realise that’s a little chauvinistic - would it offend you?’
‘No, that would be very gallant of you. I do like a little chivalry.’ she grinned. He got up, resolved to get dressed before temptation lured him any further.
‘I have to go. I expect you in the training hall in fifteen minutes, and I warn you that I show no favouritism there.’
Note - this is an extract from a series which I am revising. You can read it from the start here
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Protect and Serve (revised)
Captain of the King's Guard Bastien Lykel admits his attraction to Sophia Turner, newly employed by King Constantine and Queen Regina as the social season to find a Queen for Crown Prince Liam kicks off.
In this AU, Bastien is all he should be - loyal, efficient and devilishly attractive.
This is an extract from my TRR AU fic featuring Bastien Lykel and introducing his love interest. Part Two to be posted very soon. Nothing too adult in this chapter, but it gets smuffy so NO UNDER 18s
Introduction. Sophia has had some trouble with nobles and royalty making passes at her. She asks the head of security for help, and he suggests that they pretend to be an item to deter them, which she agrees to. One evening he invites her for dinner in his apartment in the servant's wing where she also lives.
Sophia didn’t have long to get ready to go to Bastien’s quarters for dinner so she swiftly showered and put on a dress that she’d thought might be useful for socialising. It was nothing special, she thought, but it made a change from her usual slim legged jeans or slacks, blouse and jacket. She didn’t really have much else that was different.
She knocked on his door punctually at seven as he had asked, and he opened the door into a small hallway with two doors leading off it which she presumed to be the lounge and the bedroom. He was casually dressed in suit trousers, an open necked shirt with a thin woollen sweater and looked very much at ease.
‘Sophia, how was your day – not too taxing I hope?’ He took her jacket and ushered her into the neatly furnished living area. It was light and airy with a view over the courtyard, whereas her own room on the floor above looked the opposite way toward the stables. An easy chair and couch faced the fireplace and TV screen, and there was room for a small dining table under the window. A shelving system groaned with books and trophies and a sideboard sported a selection of spirits and a compact but modern music system. The décor was simple and fresh, the floor boards bare save for a couple of rugs in a concession to comfort. Ther was a small kitchenette are with a breakfast bar off to one side of the room
‘It was busy but it was good to keep working. I helped housekeeping to tidy up and serve dinner.’ Bastien went to the breakfast bar, where two glasses were set out.
‘Will you have a drink? I can offer red or white wine – the white will complement the main course if you just want to stick to one thing.’
‘Yes please, white will be fine. I expect your day was busy too.’ He went to the fridge for the wine.
‘On and off. I was on point for a lot of the time so it wasn’t too taxing.’
‘On point?’ she asked as he handed her a glass and started to pour.
‘Oh I’m sorry – basically just staying close to the King and observing.’ She took a sip of the wine, finding it cool and crisp. 'The food is ready, cook sent a trolley so we won’t be disturbed.’ He pulled a chair out for her. ‘Please sit.’ He turned his gaze to her attire, his grey eyes scanning over her, making her feel a little hot.
‘I don’t think I’ve seen you in a dress before.’
‘It’s not very practical when I’m working, and it seemed fitting to wear it tonight.’
‘I’m flattered that you wore it. Cook sent melon with parma ham, I hope that’s acceptable.’ They settled down to eat and talked about their day. The main course was pasta with a creamy sauce with flaked fish, and Sophia tucked in with relish. She declined dessert, saying she’d rather let her dinner settle for a while before she had anything sweet. They settled down with their drinks – Bastien in his recliner, Sophia sitting comfortably on the couch.
‘Sophia, I thought it expedient to discuss our arrangement. I respect that you want to I quote ‘find your feet’ in your job before you consider any emotional entanglements, and I feel that may be something to do with your cultural norms. You are English, and from what I have seen with others from your country, you are reserved and don’t express your emotions easily.’ He toyed with his glass, looking at the amber liquid ‘I know affairs are not uncommon amongst the English, but I gather that such matters can cause a lot of upset and emotional turmoil.’ He looked at her with his piercing grey eyes ‘Here in Cordonia we have a more Mediterranean outlook on affairs of the heart. This may be difficult for you to accept, but I’d like to explain a little more – are you comfortable with that?’
‘I’m in a foreign country, I appreciate that your customs are different. Anything you can tell me is welcome if it helps me adjust and fit in with my work mates.’ Bastien widened his legs and leaned forward, his elbows on his knees.
‘First of all, allow me to explain about marriages in Cordonia, and other matters will follow.’ Again he paid attention to his glass, tracing the cut glass patterns at the base ‘It’s not unknown – in fact its very common for married couples to have lovers or partners outside the marriage – of either sex. As long as their spouse is aware and there are no secrets, it’s considered quite normal. Marriage is seen as a safe harbour for children to grow up supported and safe.’ Sophia took a sip of her drink, her stomach tightening a little. He looked up at her, his gaze solemn but with a trace of warmth.
‘All this means that in general, Cordonians are very free in expressing their desires – as you witnessed at the hands of several of the men, and I’m sorry if that distressed you. However, I hope you can adjust and realise it’s not meant to be threatening – the men that approached you simply found you attractive and hoped you would return their affections.’ Sophia interrupted him.
‘Thankyou for that Bastien. I said I could handle it, it was just – distracting, that’s all, and I’m grateful for your help. I’m not a damsel in distress, as I explained I didn't want to jeopardise my position here. I’m learning fast.’ she swallowed, thinking that perhaps he had tired of their arrangement, and she realised she didn’t want that. She dropped her gaze to her glass, watching the bubbles form and rise and pop. Vaguely she heard Bastien saying her name.
‘Sophia, look at me please.’ She slowly did as she was told, meeting his gaze. His expression was soft and friendly.
‘Sophia, I’ve asked you here to find out if we need to redefine our arrangement. There is quite an age difference - I’m ten years older than you – but you’ve told me that you find that attractive. You strike me as very self reliant, and that is important. My job means I often keep irregular hours and am sometimes away for days or weeks. That is partly why I found you a position within the court while it travels, to keep you close, because I find that…’ He twisted his glass in his grasp ‘I find that I like your company, and bluntly put, I’m attracted to you.’
Sophia caught her breath as he held her gaze, grey eyes piercing green. She felt her blood surging in her veins, her head growing light. She stood up, uncertain of what to do, but that made her even more light headed so she sat down again. He put his glass on the coffee table.
‘Forgive me, I’ve shocked you. I should have chosen neutral ground to speak to you, been more gentle. Please forgive me.’ She wanted to answer but her mouth was dry so she took a swig of her drink, her hand shaking. She found herself choking and Bastien swiftly came to her side to take her glass and pat her on the back. After a while she regained her breath and he rested his hand on her back, making smooth circles with his palm until she spoke
‘I – Bastien, that was the last thing I expected.’ she admitted. ‘I thought you’d gotten tired of babysitting me, or you were too busy to carry on. I need some time to think about this.’ He sat away from her.
‘I understand. Whatever you decide, I will respect. The job offer is open, or you can remain here when the court moves out – it’s entirely your decision. Your answer won’t affect your position here. I won’t take advantage of you.’ She turned toward him, trying to stay calm.
‘Thankyou Bastien, you’re very considerate. I – I do have feelings for you but I have to work out what they are and if it’s realistic to go any further. Our work situation…’
‘Is not a problem as far as I’m concerned, as long as you realise that I’m not always available, and there are things I can’t discuss. You seem as if you’re happy with your own company and don’t expect to be cossetted. I’ve had work affairs before and it has never stood in my way. You must understand that for me, work comes first.’ Sophia drew a deep breath.
‘I think perhaps I should go back to my room.’
‘Of course, will you allow me to take you there?’ he asked. She reached for her bag and jacket, and the guard went to open the door to the vestibule. He kept his distance and let her out into the hall, following and closing the door behind him. They walked in silence up the stairs as her thoughts whirled in her head – it felt odd for him to be following her as it was usually the reverse. She turned to him when they reached her door and he leaned on the door frame, pausing as though he was going to move closer, then pulling away.
‘Thankyou for dinner, Bastien. I’ll think about what you said – and I’ll try not to keep you waiting. I appreciate I need to make a decision about the job as soon as possible.’ She barely dared to say anything about the attraction between them, his confession had been so sudden. He raised his eyebrows.
‘Please Sophia, don’t be afraid of hurting my feelings. I won’t take any decision you make personally. It’s a huge part of my job to remain impartial and objective.’ She smiled awkwardly, thinking that every word he spoke made her fall for him more – beyond the physical attraction she felt, he was respectful, honourable and patient. She could tell him that right now, but she needed breathing space.
‘I hope it won’t come to that. I’ll let you know soon, I promise.’ When the door was closed she leaned her back against it. She realised that the attraction between them had grown into something undeniable. Knowing that he felt somewhat the same – what should she do? Her head called for caution, but her body reminded her how long it had been since she had been in a physical relationship.
TO BE CONTINUED
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Go Shorty!
(It's my birthday!)
In a kind of weird reverse universe, this is my gift to anyone who enjoys my Bastien Lykel fics, queued to be posted on my birthday. I've noted Fabricio's recent image change and it inspired the following - what would Bastien's family think if he shaved off his iconic goatee? Enjoy, its all fluff xx
Word Count 2035
Double Trouble
The last lecture of the week completed, Sophia was in her university office just putting her papers together when the faculty secretary put her head round the door.
‘Sophia, your home help has been in touch, she said it’s urgent’
‘Thanks Lizzy, I’ll be leaving soon anyway. It’s been a long week, I’m glad I’ve nothing on this afternoon.’ Sophia turned her mobile phone back on to see that Morag had left her a voice mail. She held the phone at arm’s length as she played back the sound of a harassed young woman and a squealing toddler in full meltdown.
‘Mrs Lykel, I’m sorry tae bother ye, but yer wee lassie’s upset, and her father cannae soothe her. Please call back when ye can. Or just come hame.’ Sophia frowned. It wasn’t like Bastien to fail to settle Beatrice. Little princess that she was, she was Daddy’s girl while Sophia was out at work through the week and welded to Sophia’s side at the weekend. She dialled the landline of their top floor regency apartment in the centre of Edinburgh that the University had allocated them. It was Bastien who answered, and all was quiet beyond his voice.
‘Sophia!’ he sounded flustered ‘Morag’s just got her to settle, did you get the message?’
‘It’s an odd time of day for a nap, is she running a temperature?’
‘Errm no, she’s hot, but she’s not ill. She’s just been crying...’
‘How do you know she’s not ill if she’s hot?’ Sophia demanded, making her way along the corridor to the car park to their SUV. Her mind span with possibilities.
‘I uh – you’ll understand when you get here, I can’t explain right now.’ Sophia decided not to stop off at the shops on the way, hoping Morag could go and get what was needed before she clocked off for the weekend. She wished she’d had the foresight to order a supermarket delivery, but she preferred to shop herself. With or without the children, she loved browsing the aisles of Waitrose when it wasn’t busy. Bastien was a surprisingly poor shopper and stuck religiously to the list, whereas she’d discover little treats and bargains that wouldn’t stretch her salary. Living in the city was expensive, although not nearly as much as if they’d moved to London, and having Morag to help was a slight strain on resources. Setting up Bastien’s security consultancy was taking longer than expected thanks to the complexity of looking after twins, and the retainer from King Liam in Cordonia was only just enough for small luxuries.
As soon as she opened the door to the apartment, Morag was there pulling her coat on and shouldering her bag.
‘Morag, I was hoping you’d be able to get some supp…’ Sophia started, but she was already pushing past her to the landing outside.
‘Ah’ll be back the Monday.’ she said shortly, and Sophia was left peering over the banister to the stairwell after her rapidly retreating figure, wondering what had happened. She turned back inside to meet Bastien holding Theo.
‘Mama.’ he crowed in jubilant greeting. Bastien stepped out of the shadowed hall, and all became clear.
‘Bas, you shaved!’ she gasped. She’d never seen her husband without facial hair in the few years she’d known him. He still had a neat ‘tache, but his trimmed goatee was gone, his chin and jawline bare. He looked sheepish, and she knew she shouldn’t have teased him about the streak of white in his beard. He handed over Theo, who pointed at Bastien.
‘Dada face.’ he proclaimed.
‘Yes, I thought perhaps…’ his voice trailed off ‘Well, that is, I mean...’
‘Beatrice didn’t like it, did she? Honestly Bas, you should have thought – why didn’t you say something?’ He rubbed the back of his neck sheepishly.
‘I thought perhaps a younger image might drum up some more business.’
‘Don’t be ridiculous, age means experience, people are more likely to trust a distinguished looking gent.’ she scoffed. He sighed in exasperation.
‘Well the damage is done. Beatrice took one look at me and bawled her eyes out. Morag tried to calm her down, but every time she saw me again she’d set off crying.’
‘Well no wonder, you look completely different. How about Theo?’ she asked.
‘You know him – a bomb would go off and he wouldn’t flinch.’ In response Theo wriggled to get down, bored at the adult conversation. He toddled off to the toybox in the lounge to rummage for his current favourite, a shape sorting puzzle.
‘Well, I’d better go and take a look at her.’ Sophia sighed. ‘If she’s been crying all morning she’ll probably not wake up for a while.’ She feared that the disruption to her sleep schedule meant they’d be in for a rocky night at the very least, if not a couple of days. She opened the door to their bedroom a crack but could see little, as the curtains were drawn tight. Normally they let a little light in for daytime naps so the children would know night from day. She crept in and let her eyes adjust to the gloom. Beatrice lay on her back in her day clothes, one arm flung back over her head and her other thumb in her mouth. That wasn’t a good sign – she’d not used that form of self soothing for a couple of months. Her hair was damp and face flushed, but her breathing was steady and peaceful.
Sophia carefully held her palm over her forehead, feeling the slight heat coming off it. Bastien joined her, gazing down at the toddler, but she motioned him out of the room and followed quietly.
‘Well, she’s okay for now. I’d better be here for when she wakes up, so you can go shopping for the weekend.’ Bastien’s face dropped.
‘On a Friday? The traffic’s mayhem – can’t we order in?’
‘I couldn’t stop on the way back, and there won’t be any free delivery slots until at least Monday, you know that.’ She sighed. ‘If you take Theo with you it’ll be easier for when Bea wakes up, and you can play the ‘Dad doing the chores’ role, that’ll get you to the front of the checkout queue. Give him a banana, that will keep him happy.’
‘Narners?’ Theo called from the lounge, and came toddling to find Sophia, clinging to her leg and pulling at her clothes.
‘Lunch first, Theo, then Daddy will take you shopping. Won’t that be lovely? All boys together.’
‘Sopping’ Theo cried happily, then looked over at Bastien. ‘Mummy sopping?’ he asked hopefully. He knew Sophia was more likely to treat him than his father, although he did like pointing out the things Daddy couldn’t find. Perhaps he’d treat him more without his sister there to steal the limelight.
‘No darling, Mummy has to look after Bea.’
‘Bee cwy. Dada face.’
‘Yes, silly Daddy took his beard off. He’s funny isn’t he?’
‘Dada silly!’ Theo cried triumphantly and pointed at him. Bastien scowled.
‘Yes well okay, let’s all laugh at Daddy.’ he grumbled as Sophia picked Theo up and balanced him on her hip.
‘Well it’s better than crying’ she said acidly. ‘Now, do you want to make lunch, or shall I?’
-------
Lunchtime was much simpler than normal with just Theo to feed. The couple could eat their own food while the toddler busied himself with cheese sandwiches made with wholemeal bread. He left the crusts, but Sophia had discovered it pointless cutting them off, as he left some bread around the edge just as if the crust were still there. She often saved them to feed the ducks at the park with the twins. Bastien had literally just closed the door to take Theo out to the supermarket when she heard Beatrice stirring. She went into her quickly, to find her standing at the bars to the cot, hair curling round her face and cheeks blotchy.
‘Mummy.’ Her voice was croaky and she looked miserable. ‘Dada face!’ she told her. She stretched her arms up and Sophia scooped her up as she rubbed her eyes sleepily. Perhaps she’d think it was a dream.
‘Well hello my little Bea, you’ve had a difficult morning. Are you hungry?’ She nodded sleepily.
‘Sippy sippy, Mummy.’ The little girl was obviously thirsty too.
‘Of course darling, you can have juice. Do you want sandwiches?’
‘Widges, Mummy.’ She looked across to Theo’s cot. ‘Where Feeo?’ Sophia sucked in her breath. It was very rare that the children were separated and she braced herself for trouble.
‘He’s gone out to the shops to get more narners, darling.’ The little girl clung on to her and rested her head on her chest, seemingly pleased to have Sophia to herself. She carried her through to the kitchen and filled her sippy cup with juice. Gratefully Bea grabbed at it and drank greedily, eyes rolling back in bliss.
‘All gone’ she shook it upside down, sprinkling the last dregs on the floor. Luckily the sandwiches were ready from earlier so Sophia put them on the tray of the high chair. Bea shook her head and clung on tight as she tried to put her down.
‘Okay darling, you can sit on my knee this time’ she said gently, and sat at the table, the little girl firmly nestled on her lap. She reached out to take a sandwich and squeezed it in her fist before stuffing half of it in her mouth, crumbs falling everywhere. She was hungry, and Sophia wondered if she’d had anything to eat before her father’s transformation. She waited until she’d slowed down.
‘Morag told me you were upset this morning.’ she said gently. The little girl took a shuddering breath.
‘Dada face bad.’ she said, putting her hand to her chin. Sophia stepped in before the cycle of crying could restart.
‘I know, Bea. He shaved his beard off. He looks funny now, doesn’t he? Theo was laughing at Daddy.’ Beatrice burrowed into her side again, hiding her face. ‘It’s okay darling, he just looks different. He still loves you – and me, and Theo. Silly Daddy, he’ll grow it back.’
‘Where Daddy?’ she asked, voice muffled.
‘He took Theo out to get more narners.’
‘Sopping?’ Beatrice relaxed and looked up at her enquiringly.
‘That’s right. Is there anything you want from the shops? I can call Daddy on his phone and tell him.’ The tot looked thoughtful.
‘Ice kweem?’
‘Okay, if Daddy brings you ice cream will you give him a kiss? His face is all smooth now, like Mummy’s.’ Beatrice giggled at the thought.
‘Like Mummy!’ she exclaimed. ‘Daddymummy!’
‘You can talk to him on the phone if you like, tell him what you want.’ Sophia got out her phone and texted Bastien.
Call when you can, Bea wants to ask you for ice cream
It was a few minutes before her phone rang, during which time she had changed the little girl’s nappy and was dressing her in clean clothes.
‘Oh that will be Daddy, just wait a minute darling.’ Beatrice opened and closed her hands, demanding it for herself, but Sophia put it on speakerphone.
‘Beatrice is here, Bas. She wants to ask you something.’
‘Daddymummy!’ Beatrice burbled. ‘Ice kweem, Daddy.’
‘Come on now, say please.’ Sophia prompted. Beatrice put on her cutest expression, unaware that her father couldn’t see it.
‘Pweese Daddy, stawby.’
‘Okay Bea, I’ll get strawberry ice cream. I love you, my little Bea. I’m sorry I scared you.’
‘Silly Daddy. Kisses!’ There was a short pause before Bastien obliged, blowing kisses to his daughter. Sophia tried not to laugh, wondering where he was and who could see him.
‘Okay now Bea, Daddy has to get the rest of the shopping. He’ll be back soon.’
‘Bye Daddy.’
‘Bye, my sweeting. Be good for Mummy.’ Beatrice slid off Sophia’s lap and went off to the toybox, obviously happy with life, and she breathed a sigh of relief.
‘If it’s any help, I told her your face is like Mummy’s now, so be prepared to be called Daddymummy until she’s forgotten. You’d better grow that beard back fast, mister.’ she said in a low tone. 'and be prepared for a rough bedtime, she'll be full of beans after that nap.'
@sirbeepsalot @katedrakeohd @fluffyfirewhiskey @bascmve01 @rainbowsinthestorm @nomadics-stuff @kingliam2019 @texaskitten30 @stopforamoment
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Two’s Company -Changes
As Lucy continues to help Brad recall their early days, Sophia and Bastien welcome two new arrivals.
Word Count 3918
A/N This is pure fluff, but if you are triggered by issues concerning fertility, pregnancy, medical environments or giving birth, give this chapter a miss. To be truthful, this chapter mostly features Bastien and Sophia, but it foreshadows Lucy’s future...
9 Welcome to the Twins
The band started up in the ballroom, playing background music while the guests arrived and were briefly announced. The Charity Ball at the Palace was under way at last. Lucy had insisted on Brad wearing the suit he’d had for the social season in which they’d met, and he thought he knew why.
‘And why does Drake get to wear his denim shirt at this formal occasion?’ he had quizzed her, just the same. She just smiled enigmatically.
‘If you don’t know you’ll find out in good time. Now go down and wait for the guests. I’ll follow in a little while. Don’t worry if I’m late, it’s all part of the surprise’
So Brad stood greeting the nobles that had attended the social season, the former suitors presenting themselves to him one by one. Madeleine was a little sour faced, but then that wasn’t unusual. Lady Penelope gave him a deep curtsy
‘Ah, Lady Penelope. It’s been a while. How are you – and your poodles? Did you bring them tonight?’ He had no memory of the dogs, but he had been given a set of cards with relevant details to review. He knew that prior to his car accident he had excellent recall on all the members of court, and his father had uncharacteristically praised him for it.
‘Thank you your Majesty, the Queen asked me to leave them behind tonight. Morgan and Morgana were quite upset’
‘I’m so sorry’ he said smoothly ‘Perhaps next time. I’ll make sure to ask her majesty to allow it’
‘Thankyou your Grace’ she inclined her head ‘And many congratulations on your recent…’ she froze for a second, a look of panic spreading across her lovely face, scanning the ballroom, her eye alighting on Drake standing nursing a glass of whiskey at the bar. His denim shirt stuck out like a sore thumb amongst the dinner jackets and ballgowns ‘uhhh marriages’ Penelope squeaked, and moved hurriedly away. Brad noticed Drake was talking to a woman in a red dress with a mask. She looked over and started to walk across the ballroom toward him, and he suddenly felt dizzy.
‘Hello, you’ll have to forgive me, but I don’t think we’ve met’
‘We’ve actually met once before’
‘Surely I would have remembered’
‘I suppose this mask is doing its job’
‘Will you give me a hint?’
‘you were surrounded by your friends…’
‘That’s not much of a clue…’
‘And you owed me a drink’
‘Lucy! I - never thought I’d see you again’ Brad said in a dream as she reached his side. She smiled broadly, taking her mask off.
‘Did it work?’ she asked, and he nodded, swallowing.
‘Yes – I think I need some fresh air’ She turned and waved at the band, and they swooped into a familiar tune – the one they had played when they had first danced together. He held on to her tight as the music swirled around him.
‘I’m a little better at dancing this time’ she smiled ‘and it’s my turn to sweep you off behind the curtains’ Soon he was leaning on the balcony taking lungfuls of air as the memories swirled around him. The dance, sneaking out to the maze – the chase, the kiss. He shook his head and stood tall, turning back to his wife – his Queen.
‘What is it about you, Lucy? Why did you make me want to break all the rules?’ he said softly. She put her hand to his cheek.
‘Because the rules were making you unhappy’ she replied ‘and in return you changed the rules for me and brought the three of us together’ He leaned closer and kissed her tenderly, his hand grazing her belly.
‘Here’s another big change. Life will never be the same again.’ he whispered close to her ear ‘When did we next meet? I remember the maze’
‘Well, I think I can risk it rather than waiting to stage it’ Lucy replied’ It’s a long time to the races’
‘Ah, the races’ he screwed up his forehead, then his face cleared. ‘I lost my bet on the winning horse and paid the usual forfeit – except you sat on my back along with Drake’ She smiled happily
‘How about the lawn party?’ she asked, but he frowned and shook his head.
‘I’m sorry’ he said dejectedly. She caught at his arm and squeezed it.
‘Never mind, not everyone remembers every little thing. I’ve had to rack my brain too. Let’s just leave it for now, enjoy the ball’
-------
In the staff wing, the sounds of the ball were a distant whisper of sound, unheard as the TV showed Sophia’s current bingeworthy period drama. She had stopped nitpicking the historical inaccuracies and dozed, the voices murmuring in the background. She smiled as the scene cut to a Regency ball in full swing.
‘Go on, admit you love her’ she mumbled, briefly surfacing to berate the male lead for not seeing what was under his nose. The female lead smiled, gazing into his eyes as they twirled and dipped. ‘So romantic’ she sniffled and reached for a tissue to dab at her eyes.
‘Hmmm?’ Bastien rumbled as he stirred in his easy chair, leg propped on a footstool as he sat vigil by his very pregnant wife’s side. Sophia laboured to sit up a little, and he got to his feet to help her, leg stiff from inaction.
‘Simon won’t admit he’s madly in love with Daphne’ she told him ‘and she’s so innocent she doesn’t realise he’s the man for her’ she sighed ‘I know, sentimental rubbish, but I can’t get enough’
‘Whatever makes you happy, theà mou’ Bastien smiled. He knelt by her side ‘May I?’ he asked, hand hovering over her bump. She nodded.
‘You had a large part to play in my current state.’ she grumbled ‘One of the tiddlers is using my bladder as a trampoline’ Bastien smiled, smoothing his hand over her belly. A little bump rose to meet his palm.
‘Not long till we meet them in person’ He stroked it, identifying it as a foot. ‘Come on little ones, Papa’s waiting and Mama’s tired’ He looked up at her ‘Shall I help you to the bathroom?’
‘Yes please, just let me pause this’ She pressed the button on the TV remote, and Bastien helped her to her feet. She groaned, hand in her lower back. ‘I don’t think I’ll ever be the same again’ she grumbled ‘Remind me not to do this again’ Bastien decided not to comment, as pregnancy hormones made his beloved somewhat cranky and he couldn’t think of an answer that she wouldn’t turn against him right now. She paused, grimacing with pain
‘Damn these Braxton Hicks’ she muttered, and he stroked her belly, feeling it harden under his hand, waiting until it softened again. She had been having contractions for a couple of days but the midwife had assured them it was nothing to worry about.
‘It’s fine, just practice for the real thing’ she had said briskly ‘Even with twins it’s quite normal. If they don’t subside within 48 hours, let me know’ They reached the door of the bathroom, where Sophia waved him away.
‘I can manage from here’ she snapped. He had removed the lock on the door in case of emergencies, and watched anxiously as she closed it behind her. ‘A little privacy please’ she called testily ‘I can hear you breathing’ He sighed and moved a little further away, the faint sound of her urination reaching him still. He knew he shouldn’t be so fearful about her wellbeing, but years of service on the Guard brought back memories of various emergencies involving impending childbirth. The Guard were the first line of assistance before medical staff could get to the Palace, and many other mansions he had served at were some distance from maternity facilities.
One notable example was seared into his brain when a noble lady had gone into labour miles out to sea on the Royal Yacht. He hadn’t been the only one to advise against the trip, but arrogance had won out over prudence and she had almost given birth before the air ambulance had winched her off the yacht. He was thankful the weather had been fair at the time.
He snapped back to the moment as he heard a little gasp. He stood up straight, straining his ears as a wail followed it.
‘Bas’ his wife called out, a hint of panic in her voice ‘Call the hospital – my waters just broke’
-------
At the hospital, Sophia was whisked away to be examined. Bastien was curtly told to wait, and paced the waiting room anxiously, massaging his hand from the pain of his wife clutching it fiercely on the drive over. Drake and Hana arrived to find him muttering curses against the doctors.
‘Calm down, Bas’ Drake had soothed ‘She’s in the best of hands’ Bastien glowered at him and straightened his shoulders.
‘She was supposed to see the midwife in the morning’ he growled ‘The risk with twins is elevated. I knew I should have insisted on an earlier appointment’
‘What exactly happened?’ Hana said, trying to ground him. He paused and ran his fingers through his hair, ruffling it out of its usual neat quiff.
‘Her waters broke’ he said ‘The babies each have their own sac but share a placenta and need to be delivered at the same time. If they’re both head down it’s possible to do it without a caesarean’ Before anyone could ask anything else, a nurse appeared.
‘Mr Lykel?’ He stepped forward, placing his hand on her arm.
‘How is she? Can I see her?’
‘She’s very well, considering’ she said, removing his hand ‘You really should have come in earlier. With twins…’ She paled at Bastien’s expression as he glared at her.
‘Our midwife told us all was fine’ he ground out.
‘Well, no matter. She’s in labour and things seem to be moving quickly. Do you have a birth plan?’
‘We do’ he said, massaging his forehead and taking a deep breath ‘it’s filed here. Do you not have it?’ She looked flustered.
‘I think perhaps you should come through, if it’s what you’d planned’
‘It is. Take me to her now…’
Bastien entered the delivery room with trepidation. Sophia was flushed and sweaty, laying back in the bed in a loose hospital gown, her knees drawn up and a sheet covering her modesty. A midwife stood next to her and turned directly to meet him. Sophia lowered her knees and he could see the sensor strapped to the swell of her belly. A machine next to the bed monitored the babies’ heartbeats, and emitted a low whooshing noise.
‘Is this the babies’ father?’ the midwife asked brightly.
‘I am.’ He said curtly, going to Sophia’s side, taking her hand and kissing it.
‘I’m Sandy, and I’ll be looking after Mum and baby – that is, babies’ she smiled
‘Bas’ Sophia said faintly ‘Wherever have you been? You need to call Mum, let her know.’
‘I came in as soon as they said I could. There’s no need to call Edith just yet, she’ll only worry.’ Sophia gasped in pain, squeezing his hand with a deathlike grip and Sandy swiftly handed her a breathing tube.
‘Gas and air – entonox. It’s quite safe’ the midwife assured Bastien. By the time Bastien had nodded, the contraction was almost over, and Sophia collapsed back onto the pillows, her eyes a little glazed.
‘You do realise this is twins?’ Bastien queried ‘Shouldn’t there be more staff?’
‘We are very busy tonight, Mr Lykel. As soon as it’s necessary I’ll call for help’ She went to the end of the bed to examine Sophia.
‘You’re dilating nicely, Mrs Lykel. Not long and we’ll be asking you to push. Babies are doing fine and getting ready to come out and say hello.’
‘How are they positioned?’ Bastien asked.
‘Both are head down, so you can deliver naturally if you’d like, Mrs Lykel’
‘Sophia’ she said testily ‘my name’s Sophia. I’ll do my best but I’m not against pain relief’
‘Of course, Sophia. Do you know the sexes?’
‘Yes’ she smiled, and looked up at Bastien. ‘One of each’
‘Well, it’s hard to tell which one will be making an appearance first, but baby number two won’t be far behind’
‘Bas, can Hana come in?’ Sophia asked ‘We’re may need an extra pair of hands’ He looked at the midwife.
‘As it’s twins, two helpers are allowed in the delivery room as long as all is going smoothly’ At that moment a doctor entered with a clipboard.
‘Mr Lykel – apologies for the delay in finding your birth plan’ she said as Sandy ducked out of the room to fetch Hana. She looked down at the papers she held, scanning swiftly ‘I see you’ve opted for a natural birth if it’s possible, with minimal pain relief’. Sophia made a little moan in answer.
‘Do I have to do this twice?’
‘Don’t worry Mrs Lykel, the first delivery paves the way for the second. You’ll hardly notice baby number two’ Another contraction hit her, and she grabbed the breathing tube, gulping at it greedily. Her head rolled back onto the pillow as the contraction faded and she gazed up at Bastien, eyes glassy from the anaesthetic.
‘I’d like some Ben and Jerry’s right now. Phish food.’ He couldn’t help but chuckle.
‘Maybe later, theà mou’ He lifted her hand and kissed it. Hana entered with the midwife and went to her side.
‘Hana, you came’ She smiled beatifically ‘You’ll be Auntie soon’
‘I can’t wait to meet your little ones’ Hana beamed excitedly.
‘Oh Hana, that’s so sweet of you’ Sophia winced as the midwife examined her again.
‘Once we get started, things might happen quite quickly’ she warned ‘After all, baby number two is going to want to catch up. At this point it’s too late for an epidural, but as things are going smoothly, Entonox should be sufficient’ Lucy looked startled
‘No epidural?’ she asked ‘Oh, fuck. Bas, what if it gets worse?’
‘Sophia, gas and air will be fine. Remember, it’s what we discussed, it’s safer in the majority of cases’ he soothed, earning a quizzical look.
‘Stop mansplaining, Bas. I’m thirsty’ she snapped, and the midwife took Bastien aside as Hana handed Sophia a cup of ice chips.
‘Don’t worry, Mr Lykel, Lucy’s going through transition. She’ll get very emotional. She may even get abusive. She’s fully dilated, so I’m going to call for assistance.’ He nodded knowingly. He’d done his research and was fully prepared for her to swear and curse and berate him for ever touching her. He knew it would be the hormones talking. He braced himself and went back to the bedside as the room suddenly became very busy with hospital staff. He focussed on Lucy as another contraction hit and she took great gulps of the gas and air again. This was a long one, and she lay back once it had ebbed away, moaning.
‘Whose idea was this?’ she moaned ‘It’s not natural’ Bastien bit his tongue, desperate to point out that it was in fact the most natural thing in the world to give birth – but he wasn’t the one suffering on the hospital bed. ‘I’m never doing this again’ she panted ‘you can forget sex, I’m staying celibate’ Bastien grinned uncomfortably, trying to avoid eye contact with any of the staff. Hana sniggered behind her hand ‘Is it time to push yet?’
‘Not just yet, Sophia’ Sandra assured her. ‘You’ll know when, but I’m here to help’ Sophia gasped as another contraction hit, and took the anaesthetic again. Bastien worried that she was taking too much as she collapsed back on the pillow, but kept his mouth shut, trusting the medical staff. Sophia turned to speak to him.
‘Bas, do you think we’re having twins because of your enormous – you know?’ she hissed, pointing to his groin in a stage whisper that carried right across the room. Hana giggled and reddened, and Sandy looked amused. Bastien coloured and cleared his throat, his smile turning to a grimace. ‘He does, you know, Sandra’ she said, motioning her closer ‘He’s – you know, very big down there. The sex is great. He’s got fantastic stamina.’ Sandra made a strangled noise.
‘I’ve never come across any corelation in size and fecundity or multiple births, Mrs Lykel’ she assured her, when she was able to speak. She took a calming breath, looking at the monitors. ‘Now, I want you to remember your birthing classes and prepare yourself to push’.
As promised, thing happened very quickly after that. Her next contraction hit hard, and Bastien lead her through her breathing, both elated and scared at the intensity of her experience. She was told to push, and he stayed with her, enduring her tight grip and murmuring words of encouragement. After each bout of pushing she lay back on the pillows, flushed and sweating, swearing that he’d never touch her again.
‘Mr Lykel, would you like to welcome baby? It’s very close now.’ Sandra said at last. He looked briefly at Sophia, torn between staying at her side and being the first to hold their child, but she nodded at him before the next onslaught. He moved down the bed as she strained and cried out with pain and effort, and was just in time to see the baby’s head emerge, followed by its shoulders. Sandra guided his hands so that he caught the warm slippery bundle. He was afraid of letting it slip, but managed to get a firm grip, and the midwife smiled triumphantly. Gazing down at the screwed up indignant face of his child, he felt an overwhelming wave of pure love and adoration unlike anything he had felt before. Time slowed and stopped as he held his own flesh and blood, his face softening into a broad smile. The little mouth opened and let out a roar of protest and rage, limbs flailing.
‘Papa has you, little one’ he crooned soothingly, knowing that first breath showed health and vigour.
‘Congratulations Mr and Mrs Lykel, your first baby is a healthy baby boy’ Sandra announced before handing him the instrument to cut the umbilical cord, and he carefully severed the connection. Briefly she wiped him clean as Bastien maintained his hold, the baby’s yell changing to wails in the unfamiliar environment. He shushed, and the little creature shuddered and quietened a little.
Sophia held out her arms eagerly and Bastien hurried to hand him over to place on her chest, wondering how long she would have before their little girl followed.
‘My little one’ she whispered, tenderly cradling him ‘We’re so thrilled to meet you at last’ She gazed down as the baby fell silent, arms folding over his chest and knees drawing up to meet them, face peaceful and enquiring. Hana sniffled beside her, and Sophia turned to the side. ‘Meet your Aunty Hana’ she breathed, before wincing in pain again. ‘I think your sister wants out’ she gasped, and a nurse swiftly took the baby and whisked him away.
‘Don’t worry, we just need to check him over, but I think he’s absolutely fine’ she assured Bastien.
‘Here’s your little girl’ Sandra called ‘Not long now’, and he went to stand ready, his hands trembling as a second head emerged, Sophia crying out again. She slipped out swiftly, but was safe in her father’s hands in an instant. He was hit by another wave of love and adoration just as intense as the last one, his heart full to bursting. Her cry was reedy and full of complaint and she wailed as he cut the cord, Sandra steadying it for Bastien to juggle his tasks. Both of the babies had seemed tiny in his large hands, both roomy and clumsy all at once.
‘Here, Papa has you safe’ he murmured ‘Come and meet your Mama’ Carefully he relayed her to Sophia. Her face glowed with happiness at holding her daughter, eyes fixed on her as she fussed at the bright light and unfamiliar surroundings.
‘My sweet one’ she crooned, and the baby quietened just as her brother had ‘You’re perfect’. She looked up at her husband ‘Look what we did’ she whispered. He placed his hand on her shoulder and looked down at the newest arrival, tiny fingers waving like starfish, little mouth opening and closing. He kissed the top of Sophia’s head.
‘Theà mou, I love you so much. I’m blessed’ his voice caught, and the nurse returned with the little boy, now wrapped up warmly, and took his sister away to be cleaned and checked. Sophia held her finger out and the baby gaped, little mouth gurning in a half yawn, half smile. Soon his sister was handed back and Sophia cradled one baby in each arm, looking from one to the other in awe. The boy had a shock of black hair like his father’s and his eyes were pale grey. His sister’s hair was black but not as abundant, her pale eyes a shade bluer.
‘How can I ever spend a single second not loving these two?’ she whispered ‘How can I feel so much love for them – and for you?’ Bastien squeezed her shoulder, unable to speak for the lump in his throat. He had never felt so deliriously happy – and scared.
‘Do you have names?’ the nurse asked ‘The babies’ tags just say boy and girl for now. There’s no hurry’ Sophia looked up at Bastien.
‘Theodore?’ she asked. They had a few names picked out but didn’t want to fix them until the babies were born. He nodded in approval, as they had also decided that she should finalise the boy’s name, and he the girl’s.
‘And Beatrice’ he replied, getting a little tilt of his wife’s head in response. He cleared his throat
‘Theodore Costa Lykel and Beatrice Edith Lykel’ he said clearly, the names floating up into the air like a declaration of existence, an acceptance into the world for the two babes. The boy’s second name was that of his foster father’s, the girl’s was Sophia’s mother’s. They could have been Theodore Robert and Beatrice Althea, or the first names might have been different, but as soon as he spoke them aloud they sounded right, and he knew Sophia agreed. She lay propped up, beaming with exhausted happiness as she held her new arrivals. She had never looked more beautiful, her damp hair curling to frame her face, cheeks rosy, and an expression of pure love and joy in her eyes. Sandra cleared her throat.
‘Sophia, we just have to check the placenta, clean you up and make sure all’s well. Perhaps Mr Lykel could take the babies, or we could put them in the cots.’
‘I can help’ Hana piped up, and Sophia nodded. Little Beatrice was closest to Hana, and carefully she took the little bundle, utterly entranced. Bastien took Theodore, making soothing noises as they awkwardly changed over.
‘Can we take them out to the waiting room?’ he asked ‘We’ll come straight back in when you’re ready’
‘Yes, but don’t hand them around’ the midwife answered. ‘New babies are still developing their immune systems, so the less contact with other people outside the family the better’
‘Take care’ Sophia urged ‘I’m not going anywhere’
‘We’ll be back soon, theà mou’ Bastien promised, and he and Hana walked out to the waiting room with his new family.@sirbeepsalot @fluffyfirewhiskey @dcbbw @kingliam2019 @katedrakeohd @texaskitten30
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Double Trouble
Bastien’s foster parents come to meet the twins, and he receives a gift that brings back painful memories...
Word count 2774
A/N You may need a tissue at hand for this one, Bastien is reduced to tears himself. There are a few Greek words here, but I’ve tried to make them obvious or translated immediately afterwards. My favourite was the word for grandmother, which is pronounced ‘ya ya’. You may notice I’ve chickened out from writing a chapter devoted to their wedding - at least for now...
5 Parents, old and new...
‘They’re here – the guards at the gate just rang through’ Bastien announced. Sophia cast an eye around the apartment to check all was spick and span.
‘Does it look right?’ she queried. ‘If it’s too tidy it will look like we’re not taking enough time with the twins, but if it’s untidy it looks like we can’t cope.’ Bastien walked over to her and kissed her forehead.
‘Don’t worry, theà mou’ he soothed ‘Althea will understand. She’s fostered plenty of babies as well as older children. She knows a little disorder isn’t a bad sign’
‘Did you ever get drafted in to looking after any younger ones?’ she asked.
‘One or two, but she never left me alone with them. Being totally responsible for small babies is a task for an adult.’ He went to the door just as a wail started up on the baby monitor. Sophia grimaced.
‘They certainly have a good sense of timing’ she said ‘I’ll go and see who it is and what they need.’
‘I’ll go down and greet our visitors. Don’t be worried about feeding them, they wouldn’t bat an eyelid, but if you want to stay private, stay in the nursery and I’ll check with you.’ He kissed her again and went to greet his foster parents, there to see the twins for the first time.
They lived only a few hours drive away in Greece but said they’d wait until the couple had settled into parenthood. Sophia’s parents had booked their flight from the Channel Islands and would be there the next month. If it hadn’t been for various video calls, her mother might well have demanded that she and Bob move lock stock and barrel to Cordonia, but Sophia had told them they weren’t sure they would be staying in the tiny European country for good. She had received a job offer from Edinburgh and had deferred it until the twins were older, and there was a lot of support at the Palace. They didn’t have to worry about cooking, laundry or cleaning, and Hana had volunteered to help too. She had experience with Savannah’s children, and would most likely go on to help the Queen when she gave birth to the heir.
She went into the nursery to discover that Theo needed a nappy change, and she was in time to get that done before his wailing woke his sister, who was a determined and deep sleeper. Changing him was an easy task compared to his sisters indignation at being messed around.
As she worked, she remembered that the last time she’d seen her own parents was at their wedding. It was a small affair, and her mind went further back to when they’d discussed getting married, some time after Bastien had proposed. They were taking a break at the villa in Greece that Costa and Althea owned, this time entirely on their own. They lay out in the sun after a swim in the clear blue sea.
‘Mum asked me when we’re getting married.’ Sophia said, reaching for a cool drink.
‘Then we should probably set a date’ Bastien replied. ‘That is, if you think we should do it’
‘It’s odd’ she said ‘I like the idea, but we’ve made our commitment to each other already. I don’t need a ceremony to know we intend to be together for the rest of our lives’
‘But perhaps other people have to acknowledge it’ Bastien pointed out ‘Plus it’s better legally, if anything should happen to one of us’
‘I could never understand my friends who started planning their weddings when they were teens’ she had said. ‘My best friend had a scrapbook and she’d collect pictures of dresses, think about venues and colour schemes and so on. I don’t think she cared who she married, and she expected it to happen before she was twenty’
‘How did that turn out?’
‘She did actually find a really nice guy to marry, but she was the original Bridezilla. He got fed up with her tantrums and stood her up at the altar – or in her case, at the beach. In Jamaica. He’d never even got on the plane to go there. Her family and friends had a wonderful holiday, but she spent the whole time crying and cursing him until one of the waiters caught her eye’ Bastien sucked his breath in between his teeth.
‘Did that put you off, theà mou?’
‘Just a little. But my wedding day wasn’t the apex of my expectations. I wanted to find someone to share my life with – and I have’
‘So what do you think we should do? What do you want?’
‘I don’t want a big wedding. A registry office would do – and a minimum of guests. In fact, just you, me and a witness would be enough. But my mother would never forgive me’
‘May I make a suggestion, then?’
‘’Of course, Bas. Fire away’
‘Why don’t we get married in Guernsey? That would please Edith, and it would keep the guest list down. We could always have a reception back here after a short honeymoon’
‘That might work. Wouldn’t Costa and Althea want to come to the wedding though?’
‘Hmmm. They’d understand if I told them we’d want to keep it small’
‘We, Bas? Are you happy with that?’
‘I think the same as you. It’s a formality – a legal piece of paper. It doesn’t compare to what we already have together. I’m happy to do whatever you want’
‘Well aren’t we a pair’ she had laughed ‘The reluctant bride and groom’
‘But enthusiastic lovers’ he joked, and swooped down on her, kissing her and picking her up to carry her inside.
So it was that they travelled to the tiny island where they had a small ceremony at the registry office with a reception at a four star hotel, arranged by her father. Some of his work colleagues attended as many of them had been impromptu Uncles when she was growing up, and a few of her school friends went too. Drake went as Bastien’s best man and representative of the Crown, being the third party in King Brad’s Cordonian marriage. It had been decided that he and Lucy would not attend, to keep the wedding low key. They had a short honeymoon on one of the smaller islands, and on their return King Brad had insisted on a lavish reception party in the Palace Ballroom. He had flown the happy couple back for the occasion in the Royal jet along with Bob and Edith.
After that, they had briefly discussed having children and decided to try as soon as they could, due to their age. Bastien had visited a sperm bank when he had a vasectomy on joining the Guard, and they were advised to try using that whilst waiting for his medical procedure to heal and his count to go up. Despite being told it would most likely take a few tries, the very first treatment worked, and Sophia had to defer taking up a job offer at Edinburgh University.
As she buttoned up Theo’s romper suit she heard the apartment door close and there was the babble of conversation in the main room.
‘You don’t look hungry, little man’ she cooed to the baby ‘Come and meet your pappous and giagià’ She picked him up, peeking into Beatrice’s cot, but she slept soundly. She resolved to come back for her, to keep the twins in synch with their naps. She had barely entered the lounge before Althea had plucked Theo from her arms with cries of delight.
‘Oh, mikros’ little one she gushed ‘I giagiá sou eínai edó’ your grandmother is here ‘Aren’t you such a delicious creature, I could eat you all up’ She turned to her husband ‘See how he looks like his father’ Costa nodded gravely, pursing his lips.
‘He does’ he said shortly, leaning over to appraise the baby. He looked up at Sophia.
‘And here is his mitera’ he smiled, and walked over to kiss her cheek. Althea only had eyes for Theo, rocking him and speaking in rapid Greek. Theo was mesmerised and gazed at her, entranced. ‘You look well, Sophia’ he said ‘I hope our Antras is looking after you and his mikra’
‘He’s very attentive. It’s good to see you, Costa. I hope the journey was okay’
‘It was very quiet – when Althea fell asleep’ he said, dropping his voice to a stage whisper.
‘You think I don’t hear you, old man?’ Althea cried ‘You’re lucky I’m holding our foster grandson. And where is his sister?’
‘I’ll get her’ Sophia said.
‘Let me come with you.’ Costa offered, and she led the way.
‘I’m sorry you can’t stay with us’ Sophia said as they went. ‘As you see, our spare room is occupied.’
‘Don’t worry my dear’ Costa boomed in his deep voice. ‘I know better than anyone how tiring Althea is to have around. We won’t stay long, we have friends to visit in the Capitol.’ As they entered the nursery Beatrice was stirring. Costa made a cooing noise as soon as he saw her.
‘Oh mikros – little princess.’ he clucked ‘Here, come to Pappous.’ and leaned over the cot, tenderly picking her up. Sophia held her breath, not knowing how she would react. She made little squeaking noises as she woke, her eyes opening to an unfamiliar face. She squinted and opened her mouth to protest but the sound of his voice lulled her as he crooned to her. He turned to Sophia.
‘They are both so dark.’ he said, referring to the shock of black hair that both children sported. ‘Your lovely blonde hair has not come through.’
‘It’s only natural.’ she smiled ‘We knew they would probably take after Bastien.’ They returned to the lounge, where Althea declared she would have to split in two in order to make the most of the babies. Costa stood facing her, and they rocked and sang to them together, doing a little dance. Bastien looked over at Sophia, whose face had lit up with joy to see the charming interaction. Theo gazed at his entertainers with fascination while Beatrice made odd little expressions and noises, waving her little starfish fingers randomly.
‘This one is musical, see?’ Althea said ‘She has a sense of rhythm. She will be a great singer or a concert pianist, just you see.’ Costa laughed.
‘Theodore is quiet and stoic like his father. Perhaps he too will be Captain of the Guard’
‘It’s a dangerous job, Pateràs. I wouldn’t wish it on him.’ Bastien commented. At that moment Beatrice decided she’d had enough of being joggled about and started to grizzle.
‘Your little princess needs her materà.’ Costa said, handing her over carefully. She made a face as if she was searching for a nipple.
‘Do you mind…?’ Sophia asked.
‘Go right ahead, I may never have fed one myself, but I would have if I could.’ Althea replied, so Sophia settled down to nurse. Theo remained in Althea’s arms, sucking his fingers and gazing back at her. ‘You need your strength, Sophia, so I brought some food for you.’ Althea sat close to her. ‘I know the palace kitchens cook for you, but I don’t think they make proper Greek food. It’s like medicine – my pastitsio will cure anything, and my moussaka would satisfy a giant.’ She nodded toward Bastien’s broad frame ‘Even our àntras there. How do you think he grew to be such a mountain of a man?’ Bastien rolled his eyes.
‘I think we might have to get a freezer of our own to store all the food Althea brought for us.’ he said drily. She turned toward him.
‘Look in the cooler bag – there’s Greek salad and dolmades and olives, and bread I baked this morning.’ Bastien shook his head, smiling.
‘You shouldn’t have, Althea’ he laughed ‘But it’s very welcome’
Before too long the dining table was set with a Greek feast, and Costa sat with Beatrice resting on his chest, making little circles on her back to bring up any wind, and Bastien had given him a napkin in case of accidents. Sophia sat nursing Theo, and Althea hovered over her with a plate full of finger food.
‘Eat, eat’ Althea urged her ‘The babies will grow fast. Start getting bigger clothes for them, you will see’ Soon it was Bastien holding Beatrice to wind her while Sophia sat at the table to eat, and Althea fussed with plates and food as if she was the host, not her foster son and partner.
At last they had done justice to the food, and Costa was the one to wash the plates while Althea played with Theo.
‘Oh, I almost forgot.’ she said suddenly, addressing Bastien. ‘I brought you something.’
‘Althea…’ he protested, but she had already handed the baby to Sophia and was rummaging in a bag. She brought out a small package and handed it over. Bastien took it curiously, and carefully unwrapped it. It was a small piece of fabric – a flowered pattern with a satin edge. He stared at it for a moment, and Sophia was shocked to see his eyes watering, hand resting on his cheek in shock.
‘Materà.’ he said, choking with emotion, struggling to keep his composure ‘I didn’t know you still had this.’ Althea went to him and put her hand on his arm. He grabbed it and kissed her fingers, tears running down his cheeks.
‘We found it when we cleared out some old boxes. I knew you’d want it.’ Her usual brusque tone was soft and tender.
‘I thought – I thought it was lost’ Bastien choked. Sophia was baffled, and she suddenly found Costa at her elbow, patting her arm. She put her hand on his, looking up in query. He spoke quietly as Bastien covered his face, shoulders shaking with silent sobs.
‘It’s from a dress that his mother wore.’ he said in a low tone. ‘He kept it under his pillow until it got lost – we’re not sure exactly when. It’s the only thing that belonged to her that he had.’ Sophia already knew that Bastien had been fostered when his mother had become a drug addict and died tragically when he was a teenager.
Bastien got to his feet and shakily left the room. Costa went on to tell her that Althea had made the keepsake for him and quietly left it in his room when he was a surly and unruly teenager. They had noticed an improvement in his behaviour soon after, even though he had never acknowledged her kind action.
‘Go, he needs you.’ Althea said softly ‘The twins will be fine with us.’ Sophia handed Beatrice to her and got to her feet to follow him to the bedroom, where he sat holding the piece of fabric, tears still silently flowing down his cheeks. She sat next to him and handed him a tissue. He slowly calmed and mopped his eyes, taking a shaky breath.
‘I hated her when I was younger.’ he said hoarsely ‘But later on I realised it was a sickness that changed her, bad people who made her make the wrong choices. She never meant to hurt me.’ He turned the fabric over in his hands. ‘I wish every day she’d been stronger, been around to meet you. Now I feel as if she’s here.’ She took his hand and squeezed it.
‘She’d have been proud of you, I’m sure. I’m only just starting to understand what it’s like being a mother. I know if anyone tried to hurt our babies, I’d go out of my mind.’ He nodded.
‘Not everyone can cope with being a parent, even with the best intentions.’
‘You never had any doubt about whether you’d be a good father?’ she asked gently.
‘Of course I did, but I had Costa and Jackson to emulate’ He blew his nose. ‘And you had good examples, so I never had any doubt about you.’
‘Althea should have been more sensitive.’ Bastien smiled weakly, his eyes red but dry.
‘It’s okay Sophia, it needed to be done. They’re here to look after the twins while I process it’ He took her hand and squeezed it ‘and while you support me. It was a good time to do it’ He got up and held out his hand. ‘Speaking of which, we should get back before they need a nappy change’
‘Something tells me that wouldn’t phase either of them’ she smiled, and rose to embrace him and kiss his cheek.
@sirbeepsalot @katedrakeohd @fluffyfirewhiskey @kingliam2019 @rainbowsinthestorm @camillemontespan @texaskitten30 @bascmve01 @nomadics-stuff
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Double Trouble
The grandparents of Bastien and Sophia's twins meet at last
Word Count 2751
A/N Just pure fluff here, no warnings. If you're wondering about my grammar, it's in order to make plain that Costas and Althea are not native English speakers. Series not suitable for under 18s
6b Grandparents
The next day, everyone piled into the minivan and made for the Capitol. The Palace was on the northern edge of the town, so it wasn’t far in terms of distance, and Bastien had timed everything to avoid rush hour. It hadn’t been easy getting the twins ready to go out, and the double buggy was loaded up with gear for any foreseeable emergency. They parked on one of the jetties that jutted out into the bay for visiting yachts and started the process of unloading and getting the twins into the buggy. Sophia wasn’t sure if it was easier or harder having her parents there to help, as they needed attention too, and she had to make sure Edith got her share of baby cuddles before they set off to meet Costa and Althea.
It was a pleasant walk along the harbourside, with plenty to see, from the moored yachts and fishing boats, the well planted flowerbeds and the old defending castle that dominated the town. The land rose swiftly from the harbour and the town buildings climbed the hill, crowded next to one another rather like the town in Guernsey where Sophia had grown up. Sometimes the resemblance gave her pangs of homesickness even though the building style was very different to her childhood home. She didn’t visit often, and it was pleasant to be there after spending most of her time looking after the twins at the Palace. Theo and little Bea were wide eyed at the unfamiliar sights and sounds, and Edith enthusiastically pointed out the boats and what she termed ‘dicky birds’ or the pigeons and seagulls that made the harbour their home territory.
They had planned to meet Bastien’s foster parents at a harbourside bistro that served a mixture of cuisines. It had seating right at the edge of the quayside with large sun canopies over the tables to guard against the Mediterranean sun. Sophia was fair skinned so needed to be careful not to burn, as would Edith and Bob. Bastien was more resilient and bronzed quickly but it was too soon to know whether their offspring would follow their mother or father in that respect. The buggy had its own sun shade and Sophia was watchful as to their exposure They both had little sun bonnets that kept some of the glare out of their eyes and the strong rays off their delicate skin. Approaching the Bistro, Sophia saw Althea, who stood and waved at them enthusiastically.
‘Excellent, they’re here’ Bastien said. They made their way over, finding that the buggy was just too tricky to manoeuvre through the bistro courtyard and the bags had to be taken off and the twins unbuckled before they could get any closer. Edith was delighted to take Beatrice again, and the feeling was mutual as she’d just got bored and decided that the straps holding her safe were too restricting. She gabbled and stared up at her grandmother, chubby fists waving in an attempt to grab at her clothes and hair. Althea quickly made her way over to take Theo as Bob hung back, keeping out of the way of the chaos.
‘Theodore Lykel, ántra mou’ my little man she cooed as Sophia handed bags over to Bastien in order to fold the buggy up. ‘You must be Lady Edith’ Althea was saying, holding Theo one handed, making an odd little curtsey and holding out her other hand for Edith to shake. On meeting Sophia for the first time Althea had remarked how ‘English’ she sounded, and was convinced she had noble blood despite being told otherwise. Costa had confided that she was a great fan of period drama and never missed an episode of Downton Abbey.
‘Althea, it’s lovely to meet you, but I’m just plain Edith, I’m not a lady’ she replied, awkwardly changing her hold on Beatrice for the handshake, making her squeak in protest. Costa had risen from his seat and come forward to greet Bob as Bastien and Sophia wrestled with the bags and buggy, setting it up again next to the table that had been reserved for them. If the babies fell asleep it would come in handy.
‘Bob’ Costa boomed, taking his hand in both of his ‘Good to meet you. Bastien, he says these are your first grandchildren’
‘Yes, that’s right Costa’ Bob replied ‘I take it you’re an experienced pappous’ Costa beamed
‘Polý kalá - very good, Bob. You know a little Greek?’
‘A very little. There’s not much call for it where we live, but I thought I’d do a little research.’ Costa nodded at him approvingly
‘The Greek gods did not bless us with our own children’ he smiled, inclining his head at Sophia. ‘You and Edith, you are very lucky’ Bob swallowed.
‘If Bastien here is an example, yours and Althea’s parental skills are excellent.’ he replied with a smile. Costa pursed his lips in gratitude.
‘That is kind of you, Bob. Now then, come, sit, sit - and we can talk and spoil these mikroí Ángeloi (little angels) together.’ He let go of his hand and they went to help get everyone seated. The two older women cooed and bounced the twins to keep them occupied while they all settled, with Sophia and the twins in the shade of the sun canopy, Edith next to her and Althea facing them. Costa basked in the warm sun and Bob adjusted his cap to keep the sun out of his eyes in the half shade. Bastien sat close to Sophia ready to help with bags or buggy while Althea propped Theo up on her lap so he could face the grown ups, making sure he couldn’t grab anything he shouldn’t have. Both his and Bea’s motor skills were developing but still a little random and they were getting the idea of putting interesting things into their mouth to sample. They had both developed fat little sucker cheeks and their fists were chubby and always active.
Before long the waiter came out with the menus, accompanied by the owner. Luigi was a middle aged Italian, a little thick around his waist, no doubt from sampling the dishes the cook, also his wife, made.
‘Mr Lykel, a pleasure to have you at my humble bistro. You bring your family’ he beamed.
‘Luigi, it’s been a while’ Bastien stood to shake his hand.
‘Ah, these are your bambini!’ he cried ‘Bellisima, what fine healthy babies, my wife will not forgive me if she misses them. And your wife, the lovely Sophia, you must be so proud.’ Sophia smiled, feeling a little odd having her babies praised while her arms were empty.
‘You’ve already met my foster parents’ Bastien asserted, then waved his at the other two. ‘and these are Sophia’s parents, Bob and Edith’
‘Benvenuto’ Luigi turned his attention to them ‘Welcome to my humble establishment. You are English like Sophia?’
‘Indeed we are’ Bob replied ‘I’m looking forward to seeing the menu. I promise we’re not typical Brits and we won’t ask for egg and chips’ Luigi laughed.
‘That rarely happens senor, but my wife likes to make everybody happy with her cooking.’ He leaned over to take a closer look at Beatrice, looking sleepy but refusing to nod off while there were such interesting people to watch. ‘Bellissima, she is adorable. I will call my wife to take a look before you order – is okay?’
‘Of course’ Sophia smiled, and he whisked away.
‘Really, Bob?’ Edith whispered to her husband. ‘Egg and chips? We’re not that bad.’
‘It was just a joke, E.’ he smiled. She huffed, but was distracted from taking it any further when Luigi’s wife, Rennata, emerged from the bistro.
‘Oh, i bambini’ she cried, clasping her hands together ‘Che bello – they are beautiful, senora. How alike they are!’ She leaned over Edith to take a good look and Bea looked a little disturbed at yet another new face. She screwed her face up ready to cry, but Edith soothed her, taking her hand and waving it at the cook.
‘Say hello, Bea. The nice lady just wants to see how beautiful you are’ she crooned. Beatrice stuffed her fingers in her mouth and dribbled, deciding that crying wasn’t worth the effort. The cook turned to look at Theo, who was unfazed and just gazed back at the newcomer before renewing his efforts to grab the salt shaker.
‘You are so lucky’ she gushed ‘They will play together when they are older. My sister had twins. They were hard work, but they always had company.’ She bustled back inside, and Luigi beamed at them.
‘Senor, drinks on the house, I insist, to wet the babies’ heads.’
‘You’re too kind Luigi’ Bastien replied. The owner followed Rennata back in and the waiter handed round the menus, taking orders for drinks.
‘Costa, the seafood platter for two looks good’ Althea remarked.
‘Luigi is generous with his portions’ said Bastien ‘We could have a big sharing platter and all order one or two tapas each’
‘Excellent idea’ Bob smiled, though Edith looked a little dubious. She wasn’t wildly adventurous with food, so Sophia pointed out the tapas menu, which seemed to please her as there were a few things she was familiar with. Before long they had all decided, and when the waiter came back with the drinks they put their order in. The twins started to doze, so Sophia put them in the buggy where they drifted off to sleep to the soft murmur of the grown ups talking.
‘Have you ever had to look after twins, Costa?’ Bob asked him ‘Any tips to hand down?’
‘No, not twins, but some – how you say? Brothers and sisters – siblings?’ Bob nodded. ‘Some foster children, they have big trouble, you know? We do our best to help them. These two’ he nodded at the twins, fast asleep in the buggy ‘They have good loving parents, and that, my friend, is a good place to start. They will do great things, just like our Antras.’ Althea nodded and leaned forward towards Sophia, resting her hand on her arm.
‘Costa is right, Sophia. All you need is love – love and patience. Every child, they are different, and so are the ones who look after them. You will work out your best way’ Edith gazed at the twins fondly.
‘You were an easy baby, darling.’ Bob assured his daughter. ‘I think Theo takes after you, but Bea takes a little more work. I’m sure you’ll find a way to manage her. You’re already doing a wonderful job.’
‘We only ever had Sophia.’ Edith chipped in ‘and she was such a good girl, she was almost never naughty. I’m not sure I have any advice, sweetheart. I just hope we get to see them every now and again’ She looked wistful.
‘Oh Mum’ Sophia said softly ‘Of course you will. We’ll visit, or you can come up to Edinburgh when we’re settled. You can fly, it’s not a long journey. We’ll have lots of video calls too.’ At that moment Luigi and the waiter came back with their food, and they scrambled to get everything set out ready to eat. Costa raised his glass.
‘We drink to our beautiful grandchildren, and wish our Ántras and Sophia strength to help them grow up healthy and happy’
‘Hear hear’ Bob echoed, and they all drank, raising their glasses high as the twins slumbered on.
-------
‘Well I couldn’t eat another bite’ Sophia announced after doing justice to the lobster thermidor she had been craving. She drank sparkling water, while Althea and Edith had retsina, and topped up their glasses from a jug of iced water when they’d finished. Bob had a beer, whilst Bastien and Costa, having driven there, had soft drinks. Edith had ordered a crab salad, Bob had gone for a burger, and Bastien had sea bass and a dish of mussels. Costa had ordered a small moussaka and Althea had pizza, and they had all dipped in to the seafood platter.
‘Are you sure about that?’ Bastien asked her ‘they have some excellent gelato’ She smiled back at him, remembering her favourite restuarant in Edinburgh that made award winning gelato, and the fact that within the year they would be there in person.
‘I think there’s plenty of time for that in the future’ she said gently.
‘Well I think I could manage some sorbet’ Edith piped up, so the women had sorbet and the men talked, though both Costa and Bastien sampled their wives’ desserts. Luigi came to bring them the bill, and Bob insisted on paying.
‘The twins will need feeding soon’ Sophia said ‘We should probably make our way back to the van and go home.’
‘Bob, perhaps you and Edith would like to look around town with us’ Althea suggested. ‘We get to know each other, and we take you back to the Palace after’ Edith looked to Bob, who smiled and nodded.
‘That sounds like a good idea – what do you think, E?’
‘Why not?’ she answered ‘Then Sophia can have a rest when she’s fed the twins’ That said, they managed to get the buggy out with the waiter’s help, moving tables and chairs so they could carry on sleeping.
‘We’d better get moving’ Sophia declared ‘Bea doesn’t like waiting for her feed, and they’ll be hungry after all the excitement’ She hugged her parents and she and Bastien set off back to the van as fast as they could. They managed to transfer the twins into their seats without too much bother, and by the time they got home Beatrice was awake and starting to grumble. The next hour was taken up with feeding and changing them both.
‘Thank goodness we’ve only got the twins to deal with’ Sophia sighed, knowing that it would be a while before nap time. ‘I’m shattered after our trip’
‘I’m sorry to hear that’ Bastien replied as he held Theo.
‘Don’t get me wrong, it was a really nice outing. All the grandparents seemed to get on well’
‘Yes, they did. It’s difficult getting out and about’ Bastien admitted. ‘But it will just become our new normal. We’ll soon have it all down pat.’
‘It did help having a couple of extra pairs of hands. Mum was right, Edinburgh will be a whole different ball game’ Bastien walked over to her and kissed her cheek.
‘We’ll cope’ he said gently ‘We can afford extra help, and Liam said we’re always welcome back here if we need a break’
‘I couldn’t stay away for long’ Sophia smiled ‘It really feels like home here. I quite like the idea of travelling between here and Scotland’
‘Well, the King has said we can use the Royal jet to take the twins there, so that will be a huge help. I can’t imagine trying to manage them on an ordinary passenger flight’ He rocked Beatrice and clucked at her as she waved her arms and legs happily. ‘You’re a little Missy.’ he crooned.
‘We’ll be around to see when Lucy has the baby, then we’ll be off’ Sophia replied. ‘The accommodation the university’s providing will make a good base to start from.’
‘We really seem to have struck it lucky in lots of ways’ Bastien replied. They had been offered a large flat in a Georgian terrace right in the centre of the city. It had access to a park, available only to residents of the historic terrace. Sophia was excited to get there and explore. If it was nice enough, they probably wouldn’t need to bother house hunting for a while.
‘Well, my first stroke of luck was finding you’ Sophia said, bouncing Theo on her knee. Bastien smiled and held out his hand. Puzzled, she got up, holding the baby one handed and he snaked his free arm around her waist.
‘I’m the lucky one, my goddess’ he murmured, kissing her on her cheek. They each cradled a baby in the crook of their arm and he turned to face her, humming a nursery rhyme. She leaned into him and they slowly swayed to the tune, babies gazing up at them contentedly. Bastien rested his forehead on the top of her head and they formed their own safe little family bubble. Sophia’s heart felt as if it would burst with love for all three of them, and looking up into her husband’s eyes, she knew he felt the same…
@sirbeepsalot @katedrakeohd @bascmve01 @kingliam2019 @texaskitten30 @nomadics-stuff
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