There’s Nothing To See Here

My dearest lords and ladies of our fair Cordonia, perhaps you thought you heard the last of me. While I might have taken a bit of an extended absence, rest assured, my ears have been as open as ever. How else could I bring to light the scandal that you are all so desperate to hide?

While the Royal picnic is usually the most idyllic affair, I have received word that there were several gentleman callers in the Beaumont tent, all vying for a chance with our season’s diamond. Considering our dear Duke’s reluctance to enter a formal engagement, I can not blame Lady Alaina for entertaining the young Prince Liam. Many rumors have swirled regarding what has prompted his visit, but one thing is for certain: the royal caught the eye of almost all of our eligible ladies upon his arrival. While this writer can appreciate his appearance, Lord Neville is another matter entirely. Whispers of a proposal have made their way to me, however, I cannot foresee any reason why the young lady would accept, given that she has caught the attention of our most notorious Rake and his fair-haired royal friend. Perhaps the lady has taken too much of my advice to heed and is merely evaluating every possible option? Or is there more to this story than our ears are privy to?

Until our lady makes her choice, we will have to make do with news of Lady Penelope’s engagement to Lord Ezekiel.

Lord help us all.

****

Sitting in the drawing-room of the Lee townhouse, Alaina hissed as her needle poked into yet another of her fingers. She pulled it back, ensuring there was no sign of blood on the delicate fabric. It had already been a trying morning, the last thing she needed was to ruin her pathetic attempt at embroidery. While she nursed her injured finger, Alaina strained to listen in to the other’s conversations, the women discussing the eligible bachelors in vast detail. Her finger throbbed, but considering that the only reason she agreed to this morning’s visit was to garner information, she had to make it count.

Penelope smiled brightly as she wove a tale of promenading with Lord Ezekiel. “And the best part is that he is fond of my dogs! I cannot believe my good fortune.”

Kiara smiled, taking her friend’s hand, “And lest us not forget, we are to be sisters. You will greatly enjoy life in Castellarian.”

Penelope’s smile faltered for a moment, “I do hope so. Although I must admit, I am feeling rather nervous about leaving home.”

Alaina gave her a knowing smile, “We can all understand that fear. But you have found a kind man that will care for you. That must offer a significant amount of comfort.”

“Something we can all aspire to find,” Hana replied quietly next to her.

Olivia scoffed, “If you chose to be dependent on a man to provide all of your happiness, then your life will be most bleak indeed.”

“So says you now,” Kiara laughed. “But if Prince Liam were to sweep you away to his estate at Applewood, I should think you would not voice many a complaint.”

Alaina stared over at Olivia, her face contorted somewhere between a grimace and a smile. As soon as she saw the other woman looking, all traces of warmth erased from Olivia’s expression, her eyes narrowing in contempt for the newcomer. “And what of you, Lady Alaina. It is clear that the Duke is no closer to a proposal. Is what they say true? Have you finally resigned yourself to becoming the next Countess of Cormery Isle?”

“No need to be cruel,” Kiara replied, an amused spark playing in her eyes. “Perhaps the Duke finally came to realize that Lady Alaina lacks the….pedigree that is required of a Duchess. Not all of us are suited for such a role.”

Alaina bit her tongue, wanting nothing more than to lash out in frustration. But instead, she offered a trained smile. “I have not made my decision yet. It would be a favorable match to be sure, but I think it is best to explore all options before committing to anyone’s proposal.” She exhaled slowly, “Although….I must admit, given Lord Neville’s eagerness to procure a wife, it strikes me as peculiar that he has yet to find one.”

“Well, if you heard the rumors…”

“Hana!” Kiara warned. “It is not our place to spread such nonsense.” She glanced over at Alaina, her eyes raking across her features. “The Lord has always had more….unique tastes. Perhaps he was waiting for you.”

As her eyes narrowed in anger, Alaina’s needle dipped into the fabric of her embroidery, directly into her skin on the other side. She sucked in a sharp breath, dropping her hoop to her lap as she assessed her bleeding finger. She placed another over the dark red spot, hoping no one else would notice her folly. Hana smiled beside her, subtly passing over a handkerchief. Alaina sheepishly smiled, “Thank you.“ She dabbed the spot, watching as the stain ruined the sloppy design. She cleared her throat, "About Lord Neville…If there is something about his past, I should know…”

Hana nodded as she looked around the room, the other women engrossed in a conversation about the visiting prince, “Yes, there have been some…rumors…” she shook her head, returning her gaze to her stitching. “It is not my place to say….”

Alaina sighed, “Hana, I have come to think of us as friends. If this man is to be my husband, I wish nothing more than to enter this marriage with open eyes. Please...if you know something that I do not...”

Hana nodded, motioning to the other side of the room. “Not here, the others might be listening in.” She raised her voice as she stood, “Ladies, it appears we are in need of more tea. Alaina, do you mind assisting me with locating my lady’s maid?”

Alaina nodded, trying to hide the hopefulness that danced across her features, “I would be delighted”

…………………………………………………….

The sounds of blades clashing filled the halls, the thin metal of the foils meeting at every turn. Liam smirked as he watched Drake match his movements, almost able to anticipate his every step after years of practicing together. “Glad to see you’ve been keeping up with your fencing skills,” the young prince laughed.

“Not in the slightest,” Drake answered, propelling his sword towards Liam’s chest. “You have simply gotten slower, old friend.”

Liam gasped in mock horror, “You will pay for that comment.” He lunged, barely missing the hilt of Drake’s blade. He pushed forward, “So are you going to tell me what truly brought you to the palace today?”

Drake forced the blades back, causing Liam’s footing to falter for a moment. “Does there have to be an ulterior motive for my visit?”

As they continued to parry against each other, a footman entered the room, relaying a message from the queen. “Duty calls,” Liam laughed as he crossed the room, placing his sword back on the rack. “And regarding your question, of course not. But I have found very few circumstances when you willingly choose to join me here. Paired with that melancholy sigh you keep emitting, it is clear that there is something on your mind.”

Drake shook his head, “I do no such thing.” But the amused smirk on Liam’s face said otherwise. He crossed the room, toying with the blade in his hands. “But while I am here, I wanted to ask for your help with a matter.”

“Ah, how convenient,” Liam chuckled. “How can I help?”

Drake placed his foil underneath Liam’s, leaning against the wall for support. He crossed his arms around his chest, trying to put his request into words. “It is not for me.”

“Let me guess. Does this have something to do with the rumors circling the ton regarding a certain young lady’s engagement to Lord Neville?”

“There is no engagement,” Drake snapped, his jaw twitching in annoyance. “At least none that Alaina has willingly agreed to. Neville is trying to force her hand.”

“What is it that he holds over her?” Liam stepped forward, “Has he--”

“No,” Drake said firmly, holding up his hand. “And he will not try if he values his life.”

Liam inhaled slowly, pacing the space in front of his friend. He turned towards him, “And why does this concern you?”

“What do you mean?”

“I am unsure why you are the one asking for my help. You maintain that you have no true feelings for the girl, yet you have come to me to help find a solution for her problem. What concern is it of yours if she marries Lord Neville? He might have the personality of a rat, but there are far less advantageous matches.”

Drake sighed heavily, placing his hand over his mouth. As he stared at the intricate patterns drawn on the marble floor, he weighed Liam’s question, unsure if he knew the answer himself. When Neville made his claim, something instinctively snapped inside of him, a primal urge to keep Alaina out of his clutches. After years of watching Neville circle the court, sneering at anyone who he deemed less than, the idea of Alaina being trapped as his wife made Drake’s stomach lurch.

Liam watched as his friend’s face twisted in confusion, sure more than ever that Drake was unaware of what was happening to him. He let out a dry laugh, “Ponder this for a moment. Since you started this ruse, have you let anyone else warm your bed?”

Drake stared back at him, “That is no business of yours.”

“I believe I have my answer,” Liam replied with a telling smirk.

“If you are trying to imply it is due to Alaina’s influence…”

“I am simply asking a question,” Liam shrugged. “What you choose to infer from my words is your choice.”

“Just because I do not want Neville marrying the girl, does not mean that I feel anything for her. She is merely my ally. I would not have intervened if it were anyone else.”

“Fine,” Liam said but continued to press the issue. “Say I wanted to pursue her, would you object?”

Drake’s throat bobbed at Liam’s words, trying to keep his pulse steady. Meeting Liam’s gaze, he tried to determine the seriousness of the question. When his expression did not waiver, Drake bowed his head, “If that is what you both want, I would support you.”

Liam scoffed to himself, his head shaking at Drake’s dismissive tone. “You’re a coward, Drake.”

“What did you just say to me?”

“How long are you going to keep pretending that Lady Alaina is nothing more than a means to an end?” Liam answered back. “Someone is going to pursue her, fall for her. Perhaps not Lord Neville, but there are plenty of other gentlemen that have expressed interest. When you find yourself alone, you will have no one to blame but yourself. All because of your damn stubbornness.” Liam turned, walking towards the exit of the room. He stopped in the doorway, turning over his shoulder at his deflated friend, “As for the other issue, I am unable to assist through any official channels. My aunt holds all the sovereign power here, I am a mere visitor. But from what I have heard through unofficial channels...I would look into the finances of Lord Neville’s house.” He gave Drake a wry smile. “But you did not learn that from me.”

*****

Later that evening, Alaina waited in the library of her home, anxious to hear what Maxwell and Drake had discovered. While her fingers continued to turn the pages of the book settled in her lap, she stared out the window, watching as different carriages passed by the front gates. She hated this feeling, this uselessness that weighed heavily upon her. While Hana had told her a few rumors, she needed more than the whispers of an illicit affair to break Lord Neville’s hold over her family.

It was difficult to place her trust in the men in her life, but she had little choice in the matter. Bertrand had already proven that he was willing to sacrifice her happiness for their family name, but Maxwell seemed to always hold her best interest in his heart. And then there was the Duke….

In truth, she knew little of why he was willing to involve himself in their crisis. It had to be to protect their ruse. With weeks left in the social season, he had everything to gain from their pretend courtship continuing. She closed her eyes, picturing the look on his face when Neville demanded her hand. Never before had she realized how intimidating Drake could be. The way his eyes darkened as he threatened the lesser Lord made her stomach twist in an unfamiliar manner, unsure why his insistence on helping her created such a reaction in her heart.

She had little time to question her reaction however, when a carriage approached, both her cousin and the Duke climbing out of the cabin. She dropped her book on the window seat, rushing to greet them in the entry hall. No sooner had they removed their hats when she called out, “Anything?”

Drake turned towards her, smiling up at her position on the stairs. But as soon as she met his eyes, the expression tightened, forming his usual scowl, “Perhaps. My contact offered some insight into his household affairs. Bertrand is meeting with several Lords at the Gentleman’s Club to find out any other information he can gather.”

“And what do we do until then?”

Maxwell sighed, running his hands through his hair. “I am unsure, Alaina. As for now, we can discuss more of this matter over dinner. I have invited Duke Walker to dine with us for the evening.” Alaina hissed a sharp word under her breath. Maxwell stepped foward, offering her a sympathetic smile. “I know you are disappointed, Blossom. But we have both sworn that we will do whatever it takes to untangle this mess. You need to have faith.”

“I’m trying,” she said under her breath, crossing her arms around her chest. Without another word, Alaina turned and walked back into the library, firmly shutting the door behind her. With her mind racing with overwhelming thoughts, it took everything inside of her to keep from spiraling. Every new piece of information, every small secret they learned, they hoped it would be the one to cast Neville away forever. But nothing so far had been enough.

Alaina tried to summon the courage to continue, but none seemed to come when she required it the most.

As she let her body sag against the door, it suddenly shoved open, causing her to stumble. She turned towards the opening with a sharp scowl, not letting it soften when she saw Drake staring down at her. He furrowed his brow, “Is everything all right?”

“Of course it is,” she said, throwing her hands into the air. “I am to be married to the most ostentatious man in all of Cordonia in a few short weeks. What could possibly be wrong?”

“Do not do that,” Drake said.

“Do what?”

“Do not give up when we are so close to finding what that prick is hiding.”

Alaina scoffed, moving towards the window, “I am simply bracing myself for the inevitable. Neville might be a man of limited intelligence, but his ability to hide his secrets seems to be unmatched.” She crossed her arms around her chest. “Perhaps I should do what’s best for all of us and accept his proposal. Be done with this whole damn mess.”

Alaina turned, feeling Drake tense behind her. “Is that what you truly desire?”

She shook her head, “It doesn’t matter what I want.”

“Answer the question, Alaina.”

“No,” she sighed. “Of course, I do not wish to marry that man. If I have to marry, I would hate to settle for anything other than a love match. I know a piece of me will wither and die if this union occurs, forever tied to a man who viewed me as a no more than bargaining chip.”

“Then you won’t.”

“How can you be sure?”

Drake stepped forward, lowering his voice, “Because I will go to the ends of the earth to make sure it does not. You are a rare light in this world, Alaina. The last thing I would ever want is to see it snuffed out.”

Alaina’s eyes darted up to his, staring deeply into his earnest expression. She could feel her throat constrict, feeling both elated and vulnerable at his words. Never before had someone else made her feel so…seen. While others might compliment her looks or her tranquil smile, Drake’s words made her feel like he understood the woman behind the ornate mask, the one so few bothered to search for. She nodded her head in thanks, “It is a pity that you have little interest in marriage, Drake. With words like that, you would certainly impress any young lady.”

“Too bad I have no interest in impressing any others,” he admitted with a half-smile. He stared down at Alaina for a moment before it fell, his hardened mask dropping back into place. “I promised that I would help you find a suitable partner, and I will complete my end of our bargain.”

Alaina’s heart dropped, her stomach lurching at his words. She bowed her head, “Of course. Our bargain. How could I forget.”

“What does that mean?”

She knew she was treading on dangerous grounds, but Alaina couldn’t stop herself, the words boiling deep inside of her chest. “I do not believe for one moment this is all about our ruse, Duke Walker. You have convinced everyone in the ton that you are some heartless rake, and yet you agreed to help me. A girl you barely even know. Why would you do that?”

His eyes narrowed, “You know it was as much for my benefit as it was for yours.”

“And assisting me with Lord Neville? How does this situation serve you?”

“Enough.”

“No,” Alaina snapped. “You have learned so many of my secrets, so many of my fears and doubts. Yet I know none of yours.” She stepped forward, her fingers pressing into the lapels of his jacket, “Will you ever tell my why you are against finding love?”

Drake studied her for a minute and Alaina could swear she saw his expression soften. His hand flexed next to hers, and her heart pounded at the thought of his calloused fingers on her body.

But it never came.

Instead Drake cleared his throat, dropping his gaze from hers. “I cannot.”

Alaina froze. As she met his tired gaze, she could feel any hope in her chest turn to dust. She shook her head, “Fine. Keep your secrets. If you are determined to be miserable for the rest of your life, so be it.”

She stormed towards the door, her hand resting on the handle when she heard him call out after her.

“And what of you, Alaina?”

She stopped, turning back to face him with a formidable stare. But Drake didn’t back down, deigning to step closer towards her. “You are so quick to judge my choices, yet I have yet to see you have entertain any of the options the ton’s presented you.”

“Lord Neville–”

“I do not speak of Lord Neville,” Drake snapped. “I speak of the countless other bastards who have tried to catch your eye, but you have not given them a moment of your time.” Another step closer. “Tell me why you do not choose one of them? Why continue this farce with me when you could have so much more?”

She started to reply, but snapped her mouth shut, unable to form the harsh lies on the tip of her tongue. Instead, her eyes dipped down to his parted lips, finally realizing how close they were now standing. With mere inches between them, her heart raced in her chest. Noting the way his jaw tensed, she felt desperate to reach up and trace her finger along the lines. Words seemed to fail her, all of her thoughts consumed by the nearness of him. “I—”

But as soon as she started to speak, the door suddenly opened. Drake and Alaina jolted apart, finding themselves on opposite sides of the library. A maid bowed her head as she entered, not commenting on the two unmarried people alone together behind closed doors. “Dinner is served, my lady.”

“Thank you, Gladys,” Alaina answered, her cheeks bursting with color. As the maid turned to leave, Alaina could swear that she saw a hint of a smirk forming on the woman’s lips. She groaned, dropping her head into her hands.

“Well, if there were any lingering doubts about our intentions, they will surely be over now,” Drake said with an annoyed huff. “I’m sure your maid is telling all of the other staff as we speak.”

Alaina’s head popped up, replaying Drake’s words in her mind. His brow as she mumbled something, a spark of a plan starting to form in her mind.

“Is everything all right?” Drake asked, trying not to let his mind wonder to what almost occurred before the maid walked into the library.

“Fine…great in fact,” Alaina said, slowly smiling up at him. “I think I have finally figured out how to procure the information we seek.”

Liam and drake fencing 🥺 and Liam calling drake out 🤣

Words seemed to fail her, all of her thoughts consumed by the nearness of him. “I—”

- BURN FOR YOU!”

Elyse

The door to the room closes with a resounding thud after Drake leaves. I wait until I hear his footsteps start to fade before I sit up in the bed, clumsily grabbing at the warm clothes he’s provided. Slipping off my tattered gown, I toss it towards the other end of the room, content to never see it again. If I had a match, I’d burn the damn thing here and now.

Standing to pull on the oversized shorts, my ankle screams out in pain, forcing me back down onto the mattress. I try to flex it, but every movement hurts. Walking on it is probably a terrible idea, but I don’t have a choice. Not when I might have only minutes until Drake returns.

All I can focus on is getting out of this room, out of this estate, and out of this goddamn country as fast as possible.

With stumbling, painful steps, I force myself to the door, desperately twisting the handle in my grip. It doesn’t budge. A sharp chill creeps down my spine as I try, again and again, dropping my forehead against the door once I realize what Drake has done.

That bastard locked me in.

Perfect. Just fucking perfect.

Tendrils of fear and anger spread through my veins, but I’m too exhausted to let them fully fester. My legs collapse underneath my weight, dragging me down the solid wooden door frame. Tears threaten to fall, but I refuse to let them, pushing them into the darkness swelling inside of me.

With my forehead still pressed against the door, I whisper to myself, “Breathe. Just breathe.”

The air fills my lungs, my mind only focusing on the inhale and exhale through my lips. My heartbeat starts to slow, chasing away the panic that threatened to overwhelm me moments earlier. My mother might be a heartless bitch, but at least she taught us one thing well. I’ve become an expert at swallowing any unpleasant emotions.

And right now, my only task is to find a way out of the mess I’ve made.

First step: get out of this room. Taking in my surroundings, I try to find something that might help me escape. The bedroom is bare, nothing more than some dated furniture filling the space. It would be easy to think it was abandoned at initial glance. The only sign that someone lives here are the few bags lining the floors of the closet, as well as the sharply made sheets on the bed.

Nothing personal, nothing to identify who is living within these walls. No way out but through the solid oak door, silently mocking me.

Defeated, I bring myself back onto my feet, using the handle of the door as leverage. My ankle thrums more and more with every step, but I slowly make it back to the bed. When I reach the edge, I collapse against the threadbare sheets, trying to ignore the call of sleep. Every part of my body aches, either from the fall or trying to fight Drake while carrying me. I’m not quite sure. But as tired as I am, my mind screams out a million questions.

Why didn’t I run the moment the boat docked? I could have taken off into the woods. Never looked back. While it sounds good in my mind, my throbbing ankle laughs at my foolish plan. It would have been a miracle if I made it to the tree line, much less to anything resembling safety.

My heart stills at the thought, unsure where I would even begin to find a safe place to hide. I don’t know anyone in Cordonia outside of the court, and home is hours away.

Not that home is even an option.

While I have no doubt that my sisters would shield me, I know my mother would ship me back to Cordonia as soon as possible. Nothing will stand in the way of her aspirations, especially not her disobedient daughter.

For the first time in my life, there is no carefully laid plan, no one whispering my next moves in my ear.

I’m completely alone.

My stomach lurches at the thought. Across the room, I spy another door, the cracked opening revealing a bathroom on the other side. Moving as quickly as I can, I rush to the toilet, coming close to vomiting all over the floor.

After a few minutes, I left myself up, hopping over to the sink. Fashioning a cup out of my trembling hand, I lift cold water onto my face and lips. As it splashes against my skin, I look up to meet my reflection, almost gasping at the sight. A large gash marks my cheek, luckily not bleeding, but red and raw. Dark circles line my tired eyes, my skin looks pale and weathered. The girl staring back at me is a shell of my usual self. As much as my appearance shouldn’t be a concern right now, it feels like one more piece of me that has been ripped from my hands today.

Nothing else is being taken from me tonight.

With a newfound determination, I limp back into the main room, noticing an end table on the other side of the bed. Two rows of drawers call to me, curious what I might be able to find. If not clues about my captor, maybe there will at least be something I can use to defend myself. It was dumb luck that I found the screwdriver on the boat, acting more on instinct than smarts. I don’t know what I would have done if the rusted tool actually made contact with Drake’s skin.

I shiver thinking of the look Drake gave me, his fingers curling around my neck. Even in my daze, I could see something peering out of his chestnut brown eyes. I expected anger, fury.

Not amusement. It only fueled my fire more, sick of people underestimating me. It’s true that I have little in terms of physical skills, but too many people had thought that I would lie down and accept my decided fate.

It ends now.

Slowly, I make it to the nightstand, refilling through the drawers. There’s nothing but a worn copy of a book, the pages faded and bent due to use. Stopping to read one of the pages, I note the scratchy handwriting that lines the margins, pencil markings indicating thoughts and questions left behind.

Guilt shouldn’t overtake me as I read through the notations, but it does. I should be reading everything I can find, searching for something to give me an advantage when Drake inevitably returns. But reading his private thoughts, the marking and underlined words that clearly mean something to him, feels wrong no matter how much I try to tell myself otherwise.

I slam the book closed, tucking it back in its rightful place. But as I do, something snags my finger, a carpenter’s pencil poking into my skin. Pulling it out to examine it, I almost laugh at its pitiful point. But it’s better than nothing.

As soon as I slip it into my hand, the door handle turns, Drake emerging from the other side. I force myself against the wall, watching and waiting for the perfect moment to pounce. I’ve escaped one captor tonight, I’ll be damned if another locks me away.

Almost as if he can sense my thoughts, Drake turns towards me, bearing a tray with different supplies. The smell of warm tea makes my mouth water, but I don’t move from the wall, all too aware of how his eyes narrow at my position. He places the tray on the end table, frowning down to my injured foot. “You shouldn’t be walking on that.”

“Why do you care?” I snap, but the growling of my stomach takes away some of my words’ bite. Looking at the tray now visible on the end table, I can see that there’s a bowl of soup and crackers next to the mug.

Letting out a dry chuckle, Drake reaches out his hand to help me back to the bed. But instead, I hop past him. The bastard dragged me into this place and locked me in this goddamn room. If he thinks I’m touching him, he is out of his mind. “And here I thought we were making progress,” he chuckles as I brush past him.

My eyes narrow, “That was before you locked me in here.”

“A necessary precaution.”

“From what?” I curiously ask, settling onto the bed in front of him. I flinch when he moves closer, his fingers tucking a strand of hair over my shoulder. His dark eyes study my face, looking not quite at me as his thumb touches something on my cheek. Fuck. I wince as he inspects the cut on my cheek, softly brushing along the torn skin.

“That needs to be cleaned,” he whispers, taking a sizeable step back. “And your ankle needs to be wrapped.”

“I’ll take care of it.”

He shakes his head, removing supplies from half of the tray before passing it to me. “You need to eat.” But I make no move to, unsure of his agenda. Drake looks offended when I refuse to touch the food. “Trust me, Princess, if I wanted you dead, I would have left you in the water. I have no plans of poisoning you now.”

I shouldn’t trust that, shouldn’t trust him. But the raging hunger in my stomach isn’t thinking reasonably. Reaching out to grab the bowl, I take a hearty spoonful into my mouth. The first bite is almost sinful; the warm stew pushes away the lingering chill in my bones. But all of that bliss is wiped away when Drake lifts my ankle, twisting it slightly. “What are you doing?” I snap, attempting to pull it out of his grip.

“Hold still,” he hisses.

“Then don’t do that!”

He shakes his head, muttering something under his breath that I can’t quite make out. He holds out the wrappings for me to see before motioning towards my ankle again. “It looks like you might have a fracture. I need to wrap it to keep it stable before the doctor can take a look in the morning.”

In the morning. The words make my panic rise back to the surface. My appetite is gone as I think about being trapped in here, being trapped with Drake. But I refuse to let him see that fear, keeping my face as passive as possible.

“And then what?” I quietly ask.

Drake pauses, taking my ankle gently in his hands. He looks it over, tenderly brushing along the bones of my foot, cataloging every touch that makes me jerk. It’s a complete reversal from his earlier brutishness when he hauled me in his arms. After a few minutes mulling my question, Drake sighs, “I don’t know.”

The words don’t ease any of the anxiousness boiling up inside of me. After a few minutes of checking the bandage for tightness, he leans back on his haunches, staring up at me with a question in his eyes. I know what he wants to know: why I jumped.

Just thinking about those men chasing me through the city, the way they lured me to the edge of the cliffs, makes my dinner want to reappear. I close my eyes, trying to force away the memory, trying to forget the icy chill that overtook me when I crashed into the surf. For a few moments, all I could see was darkness. For a quiet moment, I thought about letting myself sink to the bottom, to escape the world that I was being so forcibly shoved into– I shake my head, refusing to let myself go back to that place.

“They didn’t give me a choice,” I quietly admitted. Drake doesn’t say anything, only continuing to look up at me with the same expression. “My mother and the King. They arranged this whole engagement without ever asking me what I wanted.” I don’t know why I’m telling him this. As far as I know, Drake is just as much my enemy as the rest of them. I have no idea what he’s planning, why I am trapped in his home. But at this moment, the words need to escape. “I can’t marry him. I won’t.”

“You really didn’t know?” Drake asks me, his voice low and tight. I shake my head. For a moment he studies my broken expression, a visible rage simmering just below the surface. But instead, he releases a tight breath, “Isn’t that what nobles like you always want? To gain as much power as possible? Doesn’t get much better than being Queen.”

“You have no idea what I want,” I snap.

“Do you?” he bitterly asks. The words make me stumble over my own, having no retort. He must see the defeat on my face, “Face it, princess. The moment you’re out of here, you’ll run back to the palace and slip back on his ring. You’ll marry him, become Queen. Hell, maybe you’ll even pop out a couple of heirs for good measure.”

My palm connects with the side of his face before he can finish the words. When I realize what I’ve done, I let out a small gasp, backing away to the other side of the room. My hand thrums in an unfamiliar way, not used to being raised in anger.

Twice, I’ve lashed out at this man.

Twice, he’s given me the same confused, albeit slightly amused expression.

I know I should apologize, say something to take back my violent actions. But instead, all I say is, “I’ll die before that happens.”

Drake studies me for a long moment, his cheek now blooming red where my hand struck him. I flinch when he takes a step forward, unsure what is going to happen next. But as I stare up at his dark brown eyes, all I see is understanding. He opens his mouth to say something but snaps it shut instead, thinking the better of whatever it was. He steps towards the door, “Get some rest. We’ll talk tomorrow.”

I know I shouldn’t push him further, but the words escape before I can stop myself. “I have two sisters…back home.” Drake turns slightly, raising his brow in question. “They’re going to be worried about me. If I could call them….just so they know that I’m all right.”

He pauses at the entryway, tapping his fingers along the frame. “Sleep first. I’ll get you a phone in the morning.”

As he shuts the door behind him, I climb out of the bed, checking the handle to see if he locked me inside. But mercifully, this time it turns. I push it open, watching as Drake meanders into another room down the hallway.

Returning inside the bedroom, I softly let the door close, feeling more at peace now that I know I’m not trapped inside. Staring at the welcoming bed, I’m tempted to crawl inside and finally let my body rest.

But despite his assurances, I still don’t know anything about Drake, about what he might have planned for me. The room suddenly feels too quiet, too exposed. Awkwardly hopping on one foot, I brace my weight behind the dresser, slowly pushing it towards the closed door. It takes longer than I expected to get it in place and when I’m finished, my body screams out in exhaustion.

Double checking that no one can open the door more than a sliver, I crawl into the bed, letting the warm comfort crash over me. Tomorrow. Tomorrow, I will make a plan to get out of this mess.

But for now, I let myself drift off, the sound of falling water luring me into a deep sleep.

*****

A steady knock wakes me the next morning. Twisting in the bed, every inch of my body thrums with soreness. I reach my arms above my head, stretching as a voice comes from the other side, “Open up, darling. I have a gift for you.”

My blood stills at the unfamiliar tone. I know it’s not Drake. Even after only a few hours together, I’m sure I would recognize his voice. Checking through my sheets, I find the pencil I stole from the drawer last night. I kept it tucked under the pillow while I slept, just in case anyone decided to crash through the door.

I flinch when I climb off the side of the bed, my ankle still throbbing despite the wrap Drake placed around it. Unlocking the door, I pull it open slightly, finding someone unfamiliar waiting on the other side. He casually leans against the frame, his arms crossed around his chest. He took one long look at me before sucking a breath between his teeth, “No offense, darling, but you look like hell.”

I don’t deign to respond, continuing to stare at him through the crack. He softly chuckles, “I take that look to mean that you don’t recognize me. I’m almost offended,” He bent at the waist, giving me a dramatic bow, “Maxwell Beaumont, Lord of Ramsford. We met during one of your earlier trips to the capital.”

Lord. The words rush through my head. Does that mean he’s here to take me back? I slam the door in his face, falling against the dresser in a state of panic. As my heart pounds out of my chest, Maxwell sighs from the other side, “You have nothing to fear from me, Lady Elyse. Drake had an…errand to run this morning and simply asked me to check in on you. He also provided a phone for you to call your sisters.” When I make no effort to open the door, he taps lightly. “I understand why you don’t trust me, but I promise that I mean you no harm. Plus, I brought you breakfast. Orange rolls, fresh from the best bakery in Valtoria.”

My stomach grumbles involuntarily at the mention of baked goods, the sweet scent of orange and spices bringing back memories of traditional breakfasts back home. I limp over to the door, cracking it slightly. “I would have thought you’d buy something apple-flavored, given your country’s affinity for the fruit.”

Maxwell chuckles, “I thought it might make you feel more comfortable to have something from your home land.”

His words and kind smile make some of the ice melt in my chest. Perhaps, I’m naive, but I push the dresser to the side, leaving the opening wide enough for him to enter. As he crosses the entrance, I silently pray that he doesn’t try to attack me, gripping the pencil tightly in my hand. But he doesn’t make any effort to step closer towards me, holding out a bag emitting unbelievably delicious smells. I grab it quickly, hopping over to the bed. I pull my ankle up on the mattress, tucking my other leg underneath. Maxwell’s eyes dart from the dresser to my position on the bed. “Interesting plan.”

“Better than the alternative,” I shrug one of my shoulders. “Where did you say Drake went?”

“On an errand,” Maxwell answers quickly, too quickly for it to be the truth. “He didn’t want you to be here all alone, so he asked me to stay here until he returns.”

“More like he didn’t want me to escape,” I mutter between small bites.

Maxwell doesn’t answer, taking a small step closer towards me. “I was there last night.” My mouth dries at his words, knowing exactly what he is referring to. I refuse to look up, not meeting his gaze. “I am sorry for what you went through at the palace. I can’t imagine how that must have felt.”

“Which part?” I dryly laugh.

But there’s no humor in Maxwell’s expression. “Drake…he has his reasons for being cold. But he means what he said. You are no more a prisoner than I am. If you want to leave, you’re free to go. I’d be happy to arrange transport to get you back to Auvernal if that’s what you’d like.”

“No,” I answer quietly, breaking off a piece of the orange roll. “I…I can’t go home.”

He nods solemnly, understanding the implications if I were to return to Auvernal without me having to voice them. I can already picture my mother’s face, tight with anger as she dragged me back over Cordonia’s borders to deposit me right back at Constantine’s side. Maxwell dips his hand into his pocket, retrieving a cell phone from inside. “Call your sisters. When you are finished, the doctor should be here to check on your ankle.”

I reach out, taking the small device with as much of a grateful smile as I can manage. Before I dial the number, Maxwell excuses himself with a wave, closing the door behind him. As the line trills, my heart starts to pound heavily in my chest, almost completely breaking when a familiar voice echoes out from the other side of the line.

“Hello?” my younger sister, Elodie, answers.

“It’s me,” I whisper, trying to bite back my tears.

“Elyse?” she says, breathing out a sigh of relief. “Thank god. We’ve been going out of our minds! Mother said you disappeared from the ball and no one knew what had happened!”

“Something like that,” I mutter, dropping back onto the bed. “I ran away. Mother went too far and I….I just ran.”

Silence fills the line as I hear my older sister stepping onto the phone. I can practically see her jaw tensing, her voice hardened with a sharp edge. No pleasantries, no comfort, all Emery says is, “Tell me everything.”

I can barely hold myself together as I recall the entire story, leaving nothing from the evening out, from my mother’s betrayal to my choice at the cliff. The only part of the story I don’t tell is about Drake’s home, and the room he locked me inside of. I know it would terrify Elodie, and I can’t handle Emery’s disapproval right now. As I tell my story, they’re both silent. But I can feel Emery’s anger rising through the line with every word.

“That bastard,” she hisses at the end. “Mother said Constantine’s been in a state of panic, convincing everyone that you were stolen by one of his enemies. And now you’re telling me that he knows exactly what happened to you.”

“His guards were the ones chasing me,” I say, my tone flat and cold. “They saw me jump into the sea. I don’t…I don’t remember much about what happened next.”

“Are you safe now?” Elodie asks, clearly fighting to hear our conversation.

“I think so,” I answer honestly. “But Emery….I can’t come home. Not now.”

“I know.”

The words sink deep in my chest. There was a small flicker of hope that she’d disagree, that she would tell me that she would never let my mother ship me back to this godforsaken country. My voice quivers as I accept the fact that my home is no longer mine. “I don’t know what to do. I have nowhere to go–”

“I’ll handle it. I have some contacts that will be able to get you out,” Emery answers quickly. “But it will take time. You are not running away from any noble; you are trying to flee the king. They will have your name at the borders; the royal guards will be searching all across the lands. It is going to take me time to find you a safe passage.”

“How long?”

“At least a month.”

My mouth dries at her words. I force myself to breathe, “What am I supposed to do until then?”

“Where are you now?”

I roll my lips together, staring at the door. There are voices coming down the hall, at least three that I can tell. “Elyse,” Emery snaps. “Where are you right now?”

“The man that saved me from the water…” I answer, sharply inhaling as I prepare myself for their reactions. “I’m at his home. He brought me here after….everything that happened.”

“Can you stay with him?” Elodie asks.

“Absolutely not,” Emery scoffs. “You know nothing about this man.”

“Because the people we’ve been told to trust are any better?”

Emery lets out a deep sigh, “I understand options are limited, but there has to be somewhere else you can go. A hotel, a hostel, anything’s better than staying with a complete stranger. Be smart about this, Elyse.”

“I’m trying to be,” I snap, my words biting at her dismissive tone. “Don’t you think I already know this? I am doing the best I can right now.” I cut myself off. “I’ll be fine. I will find somewhere to stay. I can…I will figure something out.”

“That’s not a plan,” Emery says.

“It’s the only option,” I answer. I run my hands over my face, “I’ll call as soon as I can.”

“Elyse, wait—”

But I close the phone right as Drake and Maxwell knock on the door before entering the room, followed behind by an older woman I don’t recognize. I inch further up on the bed until my back is against the headboard, trying to force my face to look somewhat intimidating.

Drake raises his eyebrow at the askew dresser, “Maxwell said you had inventive ways of keeping this door blocked.”

“I don’t like surprises.”

He lets out a soft chuckle before moving towards the bed, motioning for me to come closer. I hesitate for a few moments before obliging. The doctor immediately gets to work, giving only one or two-word answers to both myself and Drake as she scans my injuries. I lean against the pillow as she continues her assessment, trying not to stare at the two men locked in conversation on the other side of the room. Their voices are hushed, Drake’s brow is furrowed in a way that tells me whatever Maxwell is saying, he does not like it at all. I shift to listen closer, but the doctor grips my leg harder, “Don’t move until I’m finished.”

I push an annoyed huff through my lips as she rewraps my ankle, tilting her head for Drake to come closer. “It’s more than likely it’s just a sprain. It’s hard to tell if there are any fractures without an x-ray, but I think you should be fine with rest.” She turned towards me with a tight frown. “Stay off your ankle unless you want to do permanent damage.”

I nod my head, offering the woman words of thanks as Drake leads her out of the room. When he comes back, he says something quietly to Maxwell before he exits as well. I suck in a sharp breath when the door closes, leaving Drake and me alone again.

“Thank you,” I mutter after a couple of moments of silence. “For arranging the doctor’s visit.”

“Of course,” Drake answers, nodding his head. He takes a step closer. “Max says that you can’t go home.”

“Maxwell has a lot to say apparently.”

“You have no idea,” Drake whispers. “But he was right about one thing. You aren’t trapped here. If you want to leave, we’ll find a way to get you back to your family.”

“I would love to go home,” I quietly admit. “But my mother…” I let my voice trail off, unable to speak the words out loud again. “If I go back to Auvernal, I’ll end up in the same place I was yesterday.” I shake my head as I wrap my arms around myself. “It’s fine, my sister is going to help me find a way out of here. I’ll find somewhere to stay until she’s ready.”

“Do you know where you’ll go?” I shake my head. Drake stares at me for a long moment before continuing, “If that’s the case….I have an offer for you.”

The late afternoon sun poured through the window, illuminating the rich chocolate wood that paneled the walls within the study. Liam sat leaning against an arm of the navy leather wingback chair, twirling a pen between his fingers while he scanned over the document in his lap; his attention had started to dwindle forty-five minutes ago.

“So I have to meet with both the Paris Rep. and Security General about sustainable development?” Leo’s brows furrowed as he flipped a page in his stack of documents.

“Unfortunately, yes, ” Constantine answered. “It’s necessary that they’re both aware we’re on the same page with their policies.” Leo nodded as he underlined each of the meeting times on his schedule.

The King glanced over at Liam, quickly picking up on the lack of focus in his youngest son’s eyes as he stared vacantly towards something at floor level. “Liam, son, I know you don’t typically join us in all of this, but I do appreciate you stepping up.” Liam looked up, nodding as his father continued. “If you can just be sure you’re there with Leo for all of the general assembly meetings and to assist in the closed meeting with the King of Monaco?” Constantine scribbled a quick note before glancing up to find exasperated looks plastered across his sons’ faces. “Something wrong?” He chuckled.

“Guy’s a complete ass.” Leo spoke up and Constantine looked to Liam, who shot his thumb and index towards his brother in agreement.

A sincere laugh rumbled from the king’s chest before a harsh cough quickly over powered it. He shook his head when he saw Leo and Liam both stand in concern. “I–” pausing to catch his breath, he covered his mouth with his fist, waving them both off with his free hand. “I’m fi–“ he coughed, “I’m fine.”

“You’re sure?” Liam asked, as both men reluctantly lowered themselves back into their chairs.

“I’m fine, son.” Constantine nodded, softly clearing his throat while shuffling a few of the papers on his desk. “And who’s joining you?”

“Maxwell and Olivia –” Leo began.

“And Drake.”

“No Madeleine?” Constantine questioned, “Godffrey mentioned their annual Karlington trip was to be cut short, I was sure that meant she’d be joining you this year?”

“She still hasn’t confirmed.” Liam clicked his pen, clipping it to the stack of papers in his hand. “But we’ll let you know if we hear anything.”

“Very well,” Constantine inhaled a deep breath as he looked between each of his sons. “I know you all look forward to this trip, especially you, Liam…But I need you all to behave yourselves this year…” The brothers eyed each other before nodding at their father. “I have no problem with you having a little fun while you’re there, but please–” his voice grew more serious, “-- remember that it is up to the two of you to represent all of Cordonia this week…”

Both men nodded again. “Understood.” Leo shot a knowing look at his younger brother, and Liam quickly returned his own filled with over-exaggerated confusion.

“Okay—“ Constantine forced a light cough, “I think that covers everything.” Both men stood and began gathering their suit jackets and folders, turning back to the desk when they heard their father breath in deeply. “Are you two absolutely sure you can handle this on your own?”

“We’re good, Pops–” Leo winked, drawing an instant snort from Liam.

“It’s just a few meetings, nothing we can’t handle.” Liam shook his head, still smiling at his brother’s casual response. “Plus, how could we possibly mess anything up with all the practice this one’s had over the years?” He flashed a cheeky smile at Leo before slapping his hand down on his shoulder.

Constantine held back his own grin that was threatening to form as his brows lowered slightly in thought. The princes had always been competitive with one another, but at that moment, the king realized that their competitive spirit was only going to benefit them throughout the following week. Despite his lack of interest, Liam needed to become more aware of what the royal duties entailed, and in doing so, Leo would also get the extra push he needed to get through the week in stride. “Bastien and Antonio will be with you two all week. They’ll be out front with the cars at six. Flight leaves tonight at—“

“Seven-twenty.” Leo finished the statement, causing the corner of Constantine’s mouth to lift. “We’re good, father…” Leo smirked back, “I’ll keep you apprised,” before turning to follow Liam, clapping him on the back on the way out of the study.

The brothers were heading to New York City that evening for the annual week-long United Nations General Assembly Conference. And though attending the conference was nothing new to either of the young men, it was the first time they’d be attending without their father. Constantine had taken them both by surprise two days earlier, when he'd shared that he wasn't able to travel because of unexpected health concerns. The statement had immediately sparked an uproar of questions from both Leo and Liam, but Constantine had quickly reassured them that it was simply an incessant cough: one that the board and royal health director were being overly cautious about, having already scheduled several imperative and involuntary tests throughout the next two weeks.

“So, you ready to actually work this week?” Leo chuckled as the two men walked the halls back to their quarters. “Hey–” He looked over, nudging his brother in the side, “--you good? You’re usually amped about this trip?”

“Hm?” Liam glanced up and shook his head. “I’m fine–”

“It’s just a few meetings, man. It’s not gonna be that bad.”

Liam chuckled, “I’m not worried about the meetings, Leo… I’m fine.”

Leo stopped in front of his door, watching as Liam continued down the hall. “Wait a minute,” he turned to lean against the door frame. “Please tell me this isn’t because your little plaything’s not going to be there?”

Liam closed his eyes, keeping his back to his brother as he stopped in front of his door. He knew who Leo was referring to, but he also knew that Leo had no idea the weight his words held at that moment; how could he? Liam hadn’t shared much of anything with him when it came to Kelly, and he definitely wasn’t about to get into it now. Liam inhaled a sharp breath and forced a dry laugh, “Don’t worry about me, champ,” completely ignoring the question as he turned to look back at Leo from his doorway. “You have what--like–” he glanced down at his watch, “--two hours before we depart?” His eyes lit up, “Think of all the stoic faces you could practice in your mirror with that kind of time!” He mocked before letting out a genuine laugh as he strolled into his quarters.

“Oh fuck off–” Leo groaned, “--it was one fucking time…”

Still chuckling to himself, Liam shook his head as he dropped his phone on the counter. His gaze slid to the packed suitcase next to the sofa and he let out a breath, rubbing his fingers over his eyes. Leo was right; this trip was something he had looked forward to every year–- at least, it had been ever since the year he had met her…

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

New York City, 2015

(SIX YEARS EARLIER)

“Dude, I’m exhausted.” Drake huffed, as his eyes wandered through the sea of glittering gowns and stuffy suits. The night before had kept the group out until the early hours of the morning, and each of them seemed to regret it more as the day had dragged on. “How does he keep up?” Drake motioned towards Leo, who was standing with Constantine across the room, talking it up with one of the foreign ambassadors.

“Probably helps that he didn’t see the sunrise through a bottle of whiskey this morning…” Liam eyed his best friend before glancing down at his watch. “Luckily for us, I’d say only three more hours and we’re out of here–” He raised his glass to his lips but was quickly interrupted by a nudge in his side.

“You guys are still coming out with us after this, right?” Maxwell stepped up to the pair, and the two friends eyed each other before Drake quickly rolled his head in the opposite direction.

Liam sighed. “I don’t know....we were both just talking about taking it easy tonight. We’re pretty ti –”

“Oh come on.” Max's head dropped back. “My friends from college are coming out and I told them I’d finally introduce everyone!” He rolled his eyes when he recognized the familiar confusion on his friends' faces. “Do you guys ever listen to anything I say?”

Max had just moved back to Cordonia three months earlier, having spent the past year living in New York City. Max had applied to a few foreign studies on a whim, and much to everyones’ surprise— including his own—had been accepted into Columbia University’s exchange program. Luckily, it hadn’t taken much for Max to convince his older brother, Bertrand, to allow him to attend the highly prestigious school for the entirety of his third college year.

A sudden commotion sounded outside the function room causing Liam to turn in the direction of the doors. “Right…Sorry–” He brought his attention back to Max, letting out a breath when he noticed the defeated expression on his face. “We’re just exhausted…Last night was a lot. How are you even functioning right now?”

Max shrugged, swallowing the remaining contents of his glass before tipping it towards Liam. “Need anything?”

Liam shook his head with a chuckle, raising his still-full rocks glass just as another elbow nudged him in the side. “Jesus–”

Drake nodded towards the entry doors and Liam’s eyes quickly followed, widening when they caught sight of the two young women entering the room.

“Damn.”

“Right?” Drake shook his head side to side, blowing out a soft whistle.

Without taking his eyes off the blonde, Liam tipped his chin in Drake’s direction, “Have you seen them here before?”

“No, I would have– wait, what’s happening?”

Liam was already squinting, unable to answer as he continued to stare; Maxwell had just embraced both of the women before leaning in to whisper something that caused all three of them to break into laughter.

“Did we meet them last night?” Drake’s eyes narrowed.

Liam’s eyes slid to the ceiling for a moment. “I’m not completely certain, but I don’t think so…”

Max had met Kelly Carter and Shannon Whitmore within his first week in the states, having immediately recognized both of the girls from their popular reality television series, The Socialites. Max had been a fan of the high-society-teen-melodrama for years, so when he saw his two favorite characters standing on the steps of the Butler Library, he couldn’t help but introduce himself as the show's biggest European fan. The girls were instantly charmed by Max, drawn to his easy-going attitude and light-hearted spirit, and it hadn’t taken long for the three to become good friends. Over the course of the year, Max had formed a close bond with both of the girls, one that had kept all three of them in touch since he had moved home.

Max returned a few minutes later, welcomed with questioning stares. He quickly explained that those were his best friends from college, and the news prompted several questions from both Drake and Liam.

“So they came here to meet you?” Liam asked.

Max laughed. “No. They’re both here with their parents. Shan’s dad is–” he squinted one of his eyes, “--some big IT guru or something,” before lifting and dropping shoulders. “I just know he does a lot of work with the UN. And Kelly’s parents are big donors. They basically, like, sponsor this whole thing every year.” He motioned around the room with his hand. “Well, her dad’s company does at least.” Max saw Liam’s eyes widen slightly. “Carter’s a big name in this City, Li.”

The Carter family was one of the most talked about families in New York City. Kelly’s father, Michael, had solely inherited his family’s financial business in his early twenties and had successfully grown it into one of the largest multinational conglomerate corporations in the US, earning him the reputation of a true business titan. He and his wife, Elizabeth, were also well known for their extreme generosity, leading the donor contribution lists for several of the city’s largest charitable foundations. The couple was well-liked by all who knew them, and well-regarded by all who knew of them. Elizabeth’s down-to-earth attitude and Michael’s charisma only added to their likability; earlier that year, the press had even dubbed them, “New York City’s Favorite Philanthropist Couple.”

“And which one’s whi–?”

“Oh, right...” Maxwell cut in, tipping his chin as he looked around. “I don’t know where they went, but the tall brunette is Shannon...Kelly’s the blonde.”

Liam nodded and his towering height allowed him to quickly spot Kelly standing across the room, speaking with a couple that he could only assume were her parents.

“I’m gonna go find them so I can introduce you guys.”

Liam pulled out his phone, curious to find out more about this 'big name,’ and the results of his search only piqued his curiosity.

Michael’s corporate success and deep pockets weren’t all that placed the family of three on a very public pedestal. Kelly had been a constant in the headlines since she was a teenager, thanks to both her last name and the lavish lifestyle that came along with growing up in New York’s high society. She and her group of friends had experienced a very cultured life at a young age — attending nightclubs and exclusive parties since they were just freshmen in high school -- and it hadn't taken long for the teens’ opulent habits to garner the attention of some of the biggest press outlets in the city. By the time Kelly was seventeen, she and her friends had not only acquired a large public following, but a contract for their own reality television show. Michael and Elizabeth had initially fought against the idea– warning Kelly of the public attention it would bring into all aspects of her life– but both had eventually relented, after a lengthy list of amendments had been added to the contract, ensuring several lines were not to be crossed.

The show had followed the group of teens as they navigated their way through their final years of high school and into college, displaying a very close up, and unbeknownst to everyone watching, very scripted version of the teens’ young relationships and extreme extracurriculars. It had become a hit almost instantly and aired for a total of four seasons, proving to be far long enough for each of the teens to become known well beyond just New York City.

“Guys! This is Kelly and Shannon!” Max voiced proudly as he approached walking arm in arm between the two girls.

Liam turned, instantly meeting Kelly’s cerulean eyes as she smiled up at him. He straightened his tie, aware of his quickening heart rate as he fought to remain composed; she was even more stunning close up. He smiled as eyes moved to the brunette on Max’s left arm; they both were.

“Kelly, Shan…” Max looked between the two girls, unlinking his arms from theirs, “--this is Liam and Drake.”

“It’s about time we met Max’s best friends from home.” Another smile lit up Kelly’s face as she raised her hand to meet Liam’s. “I’m Kelly.”

“Liam–” Liam gently pressed his thumb into Kelly’s knuckles, “It’s a pleasure—“ hiding his smirk when he noticed the small glint of intrigue flash in her eyes.

The five new friends immediately fell into easy conversation, laughing together as they exchanged a few of their favorite 'Max-stories'. Liam and Drake were surprised to hear how much Kelly and Shannon already knew about them, having laughed when both girls realized –and slightly panicked– that they hadn’t referred to Liam as “your highness,” before Liam quickly assured them he’d much prefer that they never called him that.

“So Maddie’s lame ass already went back to the hotel–” Olivia strode into the circle, digging into her clutch. “Shit, and I think she took my–” She paused when her eyes landed on the girls. “Well, if it isn’t my two favorite American socialites…” She emphasized her last word through a smirk, and Drake and Liam quickly exchanged concerned glances.

“Long time, no see, Liv.” Kelly laughed, pulling her into a quick hug.

“Shouldn’t you two be at some bougie rooftop party in Soho or something?” Olivia teased, embracing Shannon as she and Kelly let out sarcastic laughs.

Liam interrupted, “You three know each other?”

“How?” Drake was unable control the shock in his tone.

“Because unlike the two of you, I actually came to visit Max in New York.”

“A few times!” Max clarified.

“Dude, I told you I had—“

Liam looked over at Kelly, watching as she subtly read a message on her phone before muttering something to Shannon.

“You’ll have to excuse us, we’re being summoned–” Kelly chuckled, and turned to Max, “--but you’re all coming out with us after, right?” She slid her eyes towards Drake for a moment before settling them on Liam’s.

“I am, they’re too ti–”

Both men quickly cut Max off as they stumbled over each other’s words.

“Oh? Yeah no – we’re–”

“Yeah, –”

“…in–”

“Definitely–”

“Definitely in.”

There was a moment of silence before Drake cleared his throat and Liam pulled his lips between his teeth, failing to to hide his smile as his nostrils flared.

“Okay–” Kelly’s chuckle shook her voice, “--we’ll see you guys out front when this is over then? We have a car.” The corners of her eyes crinkled as she looked up at Liam.

“Yes,” he smiled and cleared his throat. “We’ll be there...”

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

Liam’s phone buzzed against the marble, quickly breaking him from the memory.

“Maxwell. What’s up, bud?”

“Hey, is it cool if I just meet you guys at the airstrip? I don’t think I’m gonna make it to the palace in time.”

“No problem.” Liam pulled a water bottle out the fridge.

“Sweet, thanks. I’ll see you–”

“Hey–” Liam cut in, “Have you uh– have you heard anything? About the gala?”

“If she’s coming, you mean?”

Liam cleared his throat. “Yeah, I just... I don’t want –”

“I know, Li,” Max stepped in, recognizing the apprehension in his friends’ tone. “ I don’t know yet… Last I heard from Shannon, they still weren’t sure if they were gonna make it back in time… Guess it depends how their meeting with the producer goes on Wednesday.”

Liam let out a quiet breath, tapping his thumb against the counter top. “Alright, thanks man. I’ll see you on the plane... Don’t be late.”

Max laughed, “Yeah, yeah… I’ll be there.”

Liam ran his hand over his face, bracing himself against the counter as he stared down at the stone.

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

The roar of the engine muffled the sounds throughout the cabin as the royal jet began the ascent over Cordonia. Liam glanced around at his friends--each powering on their own devices as they settled in for the long flight--before turning back to the window, bouncing his leg on the ball of his foot.

His mind had been spiraling ever since he had learned that Kelly was going to be in Los Angeles during the week of the conference. Initially, he had overcome with relief, knowing that he wouldn’t have to face something that he’d been avoiding for months. But the timing of her trip had left him second guessing whether it was truly a coincidence, or the result of Kelly’s planning: planning that would conveniently keep her out of New York the entire week he was going to be there. He had been left wondering if perhaps, there was something she was trying to avoid, too...

Liam had eventually been able to quiet the worry, reminding himself that regardless of whether she had planned it or not, Kelly's absence meant that nothing was going to change while he was in New York; everything in his life--everything between them--was going to remain just as it was now. And he was okay with that...He had to be.

But all of Liam's solace had quickly shattered just three days ago, when he had received the details for the conference gala at the end of the week...

Having had no interest in reading more than the information that he was required to know, he had quickly scanned over the lengthy email attachment and had almost missed their names listed under the awards recipients. The initial shock had left him staring at his screen while he read the same line over and over again.

Michael William Carter & Elizabeth Lees Carter: Memorial Recognition Award – to be presented to: Kelly Emerson Carter–

Liam hadn’t known anything about it. He wasn’t even sure if Kelly was going to make it to the gala, let alone accept an award on behalf of her parents… But the news had quickly dredged up all of the worry he had been able to bury, leaving him right back where he started: unable to shake the fear that this trip was going to bring everything right back to where it had been had been six months ago.

And now, with the inevitable landing in New York just ten short hours away, Liam had started to feel the effects of all of the anxiety he had been consciously trying to avoid. Every question, every worry, and every doubt quickly pervaded his mind, and all he could do was sit there and let them. He rested his chin in his hand, covering his mouth as he looked down at the ocean below.

For him, the most troubling part wasn’t the anxiety itself, but the question of why it had even started in the first place. So much had changed over the last six months, but everything had finally started to feel normal again; things were good now–weren't they? Liam pinched the bridge of his nose, refusing to listen to his inner voice as it threatened to reveal the truth.

He heard his phone ping and glanced down to read the message.

Liv: Stop torturing yourself.

A dull laugh escaped him before he slid his gaze across the aisle to find Olivia staring back at him with a knowing look on her face. She was one of the few people in his life that knew just about everything about him, and throughout the last six months, Liam had been especially grateful for that. Though her bluntness could be fairly unsettling at times, he appreciated all of her advice—solicited or not.

His phone pinged again.

Liv: It's going to be fine. Stop worrying.

Liam read the message and inhaled a deep breath before turning back to the window.

He knew he shouldn’t be worried about it, and that thought only rattled him more.

***********

“I can’t believe I agreed to go to this dinner tonight...” Shannon sighed, holding the door open as she rolled her large suitcase over the threshold.

“Well, if someone wasn’t so insistent on coming back tonight, we’d be drinking spicy margs in the sun right now…” Kelly taunted, turning to grab the last piece of luggage from the building’s long-serving doorman with a grateful smile. “Thanks, Louis.”

“My pleasure, Miss Carter.” He smiled, shooting her his famed wink before turning back towards the elevator. “Stay out of trouble you two!”

“Always-–” The girls shouted back to him in unison, chuckling as the door to the apartment closed behind them.

Their apartment–originally the lowest floor of the Carters’ large family penthouse – had been split off from the main levels above after Michael and Elizabeth had offered to renovate it for Kelly when she graduated from college. Shannon had stayed with Kelly throughout the first few weeks after the accident, having been worried about leaving her alone–especially with all of the memories lingering just one floor above. And though they were rarely apart as it was, it hadn’t taken long before both girls agreed that Shannon should make one of the spare bedrooms her own.

Kelly dropped her handbag on the entry table, fishing out her phone before following Shannon into the kitchen. “Do we have any snacks?”

“Ehh…” Shannon droned, opening a few of the upper cabinets. “Nothing good–”

Kelly sighed as she slumped onto one of the chartreuse leather stools, dropping her head into her arms against the counter. “I want a donut…”

Shannon laughed, rolling a water bottle into Kelly’s elbow from across the island. “I’ll be out of this thing by like nine… Are we still going over there tonight?”

Kelly lifted her head and glared at the water. “Yeah. I’m down.” She tapped her phone, checking the time.

“They definitely don’t know we’re home, right?”

Kelly shook her head. “The last text I sent said we were stuck in LA till Monday…“ She eyed Shannon as she took a slow sip from the water bottle. “Unless you told Drake…”

Shannon chuckled, “Nope—“ holding her pinky in the air to prove her truth. “We’re good.” She glanced down at her own phone. “Shit, I have to get ready.” She paused as she moved towards her luggage, arching her brow at Kelly.

Kelly let out a groan as she stood. “Fiine... I’ll shower, too...”

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

Kelly stepped out of her bathroom a short time later, squeezing a towel around her wet hair as she lowered herself onto the edge of her bed. She squinted at the still-packed suitcase–momentarily debating whether or not to tackle it--before a small shudder ran through her body and quickly made the decision for her. Her eyes slid to where her purse laid open on the floor beside it, her expression softening when she spotted the folded piece of paper that stuck out from one of the interior pockets; the once crisp white edges had been worn, folded countless times to fit into various handbags Kelly had used throughout the last six months. She sighed and closed her eyes, the sight reminding her why she had come home two days early: the UN Gala.

Kelly had wanted to decline the invitation to the gala as soon as it arrived, but she hadn't, knowing she would have likely come to regret the split second decision. She blew a puff of air out slowly from her inflated cheeks as her gaze slid back to the piece of paper sticking out her bag. She closed both eyes before tipping her head back to look up towards the ceiling. She knew that as much as she didn't want to go, she had to. She had to go for them.

Kelly glanced over at the gala dress she’d hung on her closet door before she left for LA , the display momentarily shifting her focus as a small smile flickered on her lips. She shook her head, unable to stop the breathy chuckle that escaped when she recalled the events in her bedroom before last year’s gala...

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

New York City, 2020

(ONE YEAR EARLIER)

Kelly sat wrapped in a white towel on the edge of her bed, reading a message on the phone in her lap as she rubbed body lotion into her arms. She slid her gaze up as Liam stepped out of the en-suite bath, clad in a matching towel wrapped low on his hips; the bright white made for a stark contrast against his tanned stomach. She smirked as he began moving a second towel back and forth over his head, leaning back on her hands as she shamelessly took in the sight.

“Thank you,” he motioned to the bathroom with thumb before placing a quick kiss on the top of her head, “I needed that.” His eyes traveled to the garment hanging on the door to her closet. “Is this the one for tonight?” He asked, causally moving towards the white lace midi-dress.

“Sure is.” She slid her body up to lean against the headboard, keeping her eyes on her phone screen as she tapped out a fast response to the earlier message. Liam clicked his tongue and Kelly’s head instantly snapped up at the sound. She watched as he cocked his head to the side in front of the dress but before she could ask, he stepped through the doorway, quickly disappearing within the expansive walk-in closet.

“What are you doing in there?” Kelly shouted through a laugh.

The only noise she heard in return was the clacking of hangers, followed by a few zippers. She laughed again, rolling her eyes as she slowly moved herself up and off the bed.

“Excuse me—What are you—eeep!” She yelped as two strong arms came over her shoulders from behind, wrapping tightly around her chest.

“I think—” his voice was low as he brought his mouth directly next to her ear, “—you should wear this one.” He loosened the grip of one arm, moving it to reveal the hanger in his right hand, quietly chuckling against her skin when he heard her snort of laughter.

“Oh you do, huh?” She gently grabbed the side of the dress, letting the silky black fabric slide between her fingertips.

“Mmhmmm…” The vibrations of Liam’s voice sent a shiver down Kelly's spine.

She crossed her arms as she turned to face him. “What’s wrong with the white one?”

He shrugged, “Nothing…” A smile pulled at his lips and Kelly could see the amusement in his eyes as she continued to stare up at him.

The small crease between her brows grew prominent before she jutted her head in annoyance, causing an instant snort of laughter to slip from Liam's mouth.

“I just like this one better!” He admitted as he smiled down at her, gliding his tongue back and forth along his lower lip.

“Since when are you interested in women’s fashion?” She laughed, reaching up and missing the hanger as he lifted it higher.

He chuckled. “Oh, I’m not.”

She moved her eyes over the black satin wrap dress, her question momentarily forgotten as she fought back a grin.

“But I am—” Liam placed the hanger in her hand and lifted her chin to meet his gaze, “—very interested in the girl wearing the dress.” The corner of his mouth lifted, and Kelly saw the flash of sincerity in his gaze before the playfulness in his tone quickly returned. “And although you’d look phenomenal in anything.” He brought his lips to hers before kissing the tip of her nose. “I still like this one better.” He winked, and Kelly couldn't help but laugh.

“Fine.” She shook her head. “But only because I actually really like this dress-–” her eyes widened when she saw the look in eyes. “No--” was all she managed before a shriek of laughter as Liam bent down and wrapped his arms around her waist. He quickly lifted her into the air, shifting one of his hands underneath her thigh as she looped her arms around his neck.

“Liam!” Kelly threw her head back, laughing as she interlocked her feet behind his back. “I have to get ready!”

Liam smirked. “I know, but–” He tugged at her towel as he walked them farther into the closet, shifting his hands to swiftly remove it before burying his mouth into the side of her neck. “We still have to pick out your shoes…”

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

Kelly let out a deep breath as the memory faded, tapping a silent rhythm against her knees while she chewed into her bottom lip. She missed him. She let out a groan as she fell back on the bed. He was here; Liam was in New York. She covered her face with her hands.

Kelly had been restless the entire time she was in LA, struggling with the desire she had to see him and the worry that came along with it. She had to talk to him and it wasn't something that she wanted to bring up over the phone. But ever since her plane had landed in New York a few hours before, her internal struggle had only gotten worse --the worry prevailing.

She ran her hands down her face, pulling her eyes open while she pulled at her cheeks. This was ridiculous. She had to stop avoiding it. It would all be fine once she saw him. She just had to see him.

She shook her head before blindly grabbing for her phone. 5:47pm.

She stared up at the ceiling.

If Kelly had learned anything about herself in the last six months, it was that being alone with her thoughts was a dangerous game, one that she rarely liked to play.

She quickly pushed herself off the bed and headed for Shannon's room.

“Hey—“ Kelly leaned against the door frame of the bathroom. “Scale of one to ten… how mad would you be if I went over there early?”

“Zehwo—“ Shannon pulled the toothbrush from her mouth, spitting into the sink before looking up at Kelly through the mirror. “Why…” She asked through a curious smirk.

Kelly attempted to keep a straight face as she shook her head, “I –I just...” She laughed, raising both her hands in defense. “I just have to go--” She laughed again at the discerning look written across Shannon’s face before abruptly turning, shouting back to the bathroom as she walked out of the room, “I’ll see you at the Plaza!”

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

Kelly looked out the window in the back of the SUV, quickly noting the group of paparazzi standing along the red steps at the entrance of the hotel. “Hey, Patrick– Would you mind taking me around to the back?”

The press and paparazzi were always out in full force during the week of the UNGA, staking out in front of all the luxury hotels in hopes of catching a glimpse of the world’s leaders and royalty. Kelly didn’t want to risk being spotted–knowing what it would entail– and she knew that with one call, she’d be able to quietly sneak into the back entrance of the Plaza, avoiding any potential drama out front.

The SUV came to a quiet stop along the backside of the hotel. “Don’t even think about it…” Kelly warned as she brought her hand over the shoulder of her family’s long-time driver.

“It’s really not a bother, Miss Carter–” He chuckled.

She pushed open the car door with her free hand, “It’s not a bother for me, either.” Kelly winked through the rearview, patting him on the shoulder before hopping out. She stuck her head back in with a smile. “Thank you for the ride.”

Thanks to the help of an old friend, Kelly had successfully snuck her way into the hotel, and had moved straight to the elevators in hopes of remaining undetected.

The elevator chimed, pulling Kelly from her dazed stance in the corner just as the doors opened to the eighth floor. She took a deep breath as she made her way down the hall, stopping briefly to close her eyes as she exhaled another. She nodded to herself, consciously lifting the corners of her mouth into a smile. Over the years, Kelly had become an expert on ‘fooling a room’. She could make just about anyone believe she was great– regardless of how far from the truth it actually was.

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

Condensation dripped from the crystal as Liam brought it to his lips, the watered down scotch quickly reminding him how long he’d been standing at the window.

He sighed as his eyes moved from the view and traveled around the luxurious sitting room. He wasn’t used to having an entire suite to himself. He had always stayed in the shared suite with his friends during the conference, but being unable to join in on the groups’ usual festivities this year, he had figured it was for the best. He hadn’t minded; if anything, he was grateful that it had at least made the memories from past years easier to ignore.

The week had gone by surprisingly fast-- all things considered-- but for the first time in his life, Liam couldn’t wait to get out of New York... He knew he had nothing to worry about anymore, but being there just didn’t feel the same without her. He missed her.

He walked over to the bar and dumped the wasted contents of his glass into the small sink, reaching for the bottle when he heard a knock at the door. He glanced down at his watch as he made his way to the entry.

“Leo– I thought we were going to dinner at eigh–” He froze as he pulled the door open.

“Surprise…” She smiled, raising her brow when she saw Liam’s eyes widen.

”Hey–” he shook his head and quickly moved aside to let her into the room. “I– I didn’t think you were going to make it back in time?” He felt a pang of guilt for the slight relief he’d felt when she told him that she wasn't coming.

“Plans changed…” She smirked as she moved past him. “Plus–” She continued, unbuttoning her jacket while her eyes moved around the opulent suite. “I’ve really missed you…” She removed the outer layer and laid it carefully over the arm of a chair before slowly turning to face him, biting into her bottom lip.

“Have you?” Liam let out a low chuckle at the expectant look on her face, keeping his steps deliberately slow as he moved towards her. “Well —” his voice was low as he gripped her hips with both of his hands, “—I suppose you’re in need of a very warm welcome then…” before pulling her body towards him and capturing her lips with his.

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

The sheer panels had been drawn across the large windows, casting a dim glow throughout the room. Her clothes had been strewn across the floor, his laid in a pile at the foot of the bed.

“Fuck–” he groaned, tightening his grip on her hips while his thumbs dug dug into her bare ass. His breathing was ragged as he continued to pull her body towards him, mercilessly pounding into her from behind. His head fell back when he felt her begin to roll her hips. “Just like that – ” he grunted, allowing her to control the pace for a few moments, before shifting his knees to gain deeper access. She sucked in a breath as her body tensed around him, drawing a deep groan from his chest.

“Don’t stop– please– Liam – don’t st–” Liam pressed her shoulders down into the bed, cutting off her words as his eyes followed his hand back up her spine. He splayed it across her lower back and fixated his gaze on where their bodies connected, letting out harsh breaths as he watched himself continue to disappear inside of her. “I–I’m going to come ag–” she turned her face into the sheets, muffling her scream into the mattress while his hands clutched desperately at her slick skin.

Stilling his movements to let her ride out her second release, Liam closed his eyes, refusing to give into the sensations that were threatening to overcome him. He felt her muscles begin to relax and drew back slowly, sucking air through his teeth, before quickly driving himself back in. “Fucking Christ–” he rasped, reaching the new depth within her relaxed walls; the sensation quickly caused his pace to pick up as he succumbed to his body’s sudden desperation for release. He grunted through each concentrated thrust before digging his fingers around her hips and jerking her body into him as he tipped over the edge, letting out a groan that only solidified how badly he needed it.

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

The two two laid back in bed a short time later, limbs twisted together under the blankets. Her head rested against his chest while Liam trailed his hand lazily up and down the curve of her hip, staring up at the shadows on the ceiling.

“Hey, which suite is everyone else in?”

“Right below us, the usual room, why?” He tilted his head down to look at her.

“Oh I just have to bring a couple things to bring to Liv in the morning… I didn’t want to interrupt their little reunion tonight.”

“Reunion?” Liam chuckled, tilting his head farther as he ran his fingers through her blond hair. “Did you see them?”

“No, no,” she laughed, “I saw that girl—“ lifting her head up to meet Liam’s questioning stare. “Max’s friend from college—” She squeezed her eyes shut, tapping her finger against his chest. “You know…The one on that American television show you’re all obsessed with?” Liam felt his heart drop into his stomach.

“Oh, what is her name…” She pressed her index finger into her forehead, missing the noticeable ticks in Liam’s jaw. She huffed. “Anyways, I saw her in the elevator on my way up here. I just assumed she was on her way to see Max and everyone.”

Liam sucked in a quiet breath, the air suddenly feeling heavy in his lungs. They came home. He cleared his throat, unable to form words as the news sunk in.

“Come on--You know who I’m talking about… The blonde?” Liam closed his eyes at her emphasis.

Her fingertips began drawing light circles over his chest, completely unsuspecting of Liam’s sudden silence and the tension spreading throughout his muscles. “She’s rather pretty, actually–” The words came out as a question as she tilted her head towards his chin.

Liam let out a breath and kept his gaze trained on the ceiling, unable to meet her green eyes as he finally answered. “Kelly…”

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

Standing outside the closed doors of the Diagnostic Team’s office, Brynn’s face betrays none of the emotions lurking underneath the surface. Impassively dragging an envelope through her fingers, she stares at the opaque glass walls, trying to recall the first time she stepped inside.

It was her crowning victory: her appointment to the Diagnostics team. The first time a resident was going to join the league of world-renowned doctors and Brynn was the one chosen. Despite what others might have whispered in the hallowed halls, she knew she earned it, working hard to prove that her ranking had never been a fluke. She was the bright future of Edenbrook, her mentor declared at the time, making Brynn beam with pride in a way she had never quite experienced before.

How did so much change in two short years?

Standing here today, the sight of the office no longer fills her with awe. But instead, an aching dread that leeches from the darkest pit inside of her. How long had she let this feeling fester? Brynn didn’t even know anymore. How long since her crowning victory started to taste like ash on her tongue?

Had it really only been a year since Ethan held her failing body in his arms, promising to never waste another moment of their time together?

She slams her eyes closed when that memory flashes in front of her, still able to recall the effects of the maitotoxin ravaging her body. Brynn's fingers form tight, whitened fists, breathing much more difficult than it was only moments earlier. Even after all this time, Brynn can’t bring herself to walk past that room. Can’t shake the smell of vomit and death from her nostrils. She's tried to forget, tried to shove down those painful, haunting memories. But nothing works, nothing stops the nightmares that plague her all hours of the day and night. Maybe nothing ever would.

Because inside her chest, Brynn knows that she hasn’t been the same since the attack, unable to be the person she was before death traced its finger down her spine.

She tries to force herself out of the memory. I survived…I survived…I’m alive. The long practiced words slowly start to pull her from the panic that started to overtake her, her breathing becoming less labored. But the tug at the memory brings about other feelings, ones that are not so easy to release with a few simple phrases.

Maybe that’s when things changed, Brynn tells herself.

She changed after the attack.

But Ethan had too.

She saw it in the days that followed, the way his eyes tracked all of her movements, never wanting to let her out of his sight. He said as much after their friends’ funerals, in the moments before he ravished her in the back of his SUV. They made love all through the night, each touch and kiss affirming that she was still with him. That they still had time to make up for all the moments they missed.

Brynn thought that it was their beginning, when everything would finally click into place.

But as the world moved on from the event, their brief bliss faded away. The cruel light of reality brought about the demons that had plagued their relationship from the beginning.

Brynn couldn’t help but wonder if that had been their moment. The moment when their paths veered apart instead of closer together. Maybe if they had let themselves heal property, instead of diving back into work as if nothing had happened–

No.

Brynn refused to let that day claim control over any more of her life. What happened after, what happened to them, was no one’s fault but their own.

The cracks started to form so slowly, Brynn barely noticed them, drowned in a sea of infatuation. Memories of hushed whispers and promises of forever make her eyes almost start to well, quickly wiping them away as a group of giggling interns passed her by.

But as soon as the interns are gone, her mind starts whirling again, but this time, the past few months roar back to life. The coldness, the need for control, Ethan’s inability to open himself up to her. Even during important moments, like the party to celebrate the residents passing their boards. Ethan didn’t even seem to make an effort to congratulate her, relying on Tobias to articulate his sentiments. It left her feeling cold in a room full of people, unable to celebrate with the person that mattered most to her.

She shuddered, thinking about the fight that they had only hours later, after Brynn discovered that Ethan was hiding Naveen’s secret. Risking his career for his mentor’s. She wasn’t surprised by that, Ethan’s self-sacrifice was a familiar beast at this point. But when almost killed her was that he shut her out. Again.

Brynn spent the rest of the night in tears, balled up in Sienna’s lap, expressing every emotion she had been masking to try to make things work. Her friend just brushed her hair, whispering words of comfort into her ear.

“Maybe things need to change,” Sienna said to her when the tears finally stopped, putting into words the things that Brynn was afraid to admit out loud. “Maybe you need to be the one to make them change.”

The words spelled Brynn. The next few days, all she could think about was what she wanted, how far she and Ethan had fallen in the last year. If there was any hope of getting back what they once held so dear, she would need to be the one to force down the walls they both built. Ethan warned her years ago that he was too set in his ways, too stubborn to truly change for anyone. But Brynn had seen glimmers of more, of the man who wanted more from life than his career.

Until the attack changed everything. While she wished she could blame all of their faults on Ethan, she also stopped trying. Waking up each morning was a struggle, barely able to keep herself together as the waves of grief crashed over her.

How could she fight for the man she loved if she was always one step away from crumbling?

But for Ethan...she was willing to try.

Until the day of his trial, when Ethan told her that any relationship between them was over if she told his lawyer Naveen’s secret. She blinked at his cold indifference, unwilling to believe that he’d throw away both his career, throw away their relationship to hide this secret. It went beyond protecting Naveen, this primal need to beat Bloom overtook all of Ethan’s common sense. She mulled her options until she was called to the stand, staring at the man across the courtroom. Gone was the warmth in his eyes, replaced by the same hardened expression that greeted her as an intern.

Before the toxin almost claimed her life, coming so close to ending their time together before it ever truly began.

Before they found a cure for Naveen, saving the mentor that he would give anything to protect.

Before they kept vigil over premature baby Ethan, holding out hope while mourning the boy's mother.

Before they had become something real and beautiful.

All gone because she questioned his choice.

And with those few words, her choice was made as well.

Brynn wanted Ethan. God, how she wanted Ethan. She wanted him more than anything else in this world.

It was what she clung to in the darkest moments, the words “I wish I had said…” playing over and over again in her mind, knowing exactly what sentiment lay at the end of the thought. It was what propelled her even when he pushed her away, made no acknowledgment of the silent bond that they shared.

But now she knew. Ethan would always be the one she wanted. But he could never be what she needs right now.

Her pulsing beeper pulls Brynn from her memories, bringing her back to the task at hand. She stares at the door, ready to finally take that step.

At long last, Brynn stretches out her arm, forcing open the doors to the Diagnostic team office. Willing away all of her doubts, she looks into the stormy blue eyes that both calm and incense her. Confused words spilled out of Ethan’s mouth at her abrupt entrance, but Brynn couldn't make out any of them. She stared at his lips, the ones that had brought her so much pleasure. The ones that had shredded her heart into thin ribbons. All Brynn could hear was the guiding pulse of her heartbeat when she reached the edge of his desk, passing him the envelope from her shaking hands before she lost her nerve.

Ethan’s eyes flitted down to the crinkled white paper before meeting hers, widening almost imperceptibly in understanding. “Brynn–”

“I’ve accepted a position at New York-Presbyterian. I’m resigning my position, effective immediately.”

Before Ethan could say another word, she turns on her heel, exiting the office. As the door closes, she releases the breath she didn’t realize she was holding. Brynn pauses, just long enough to see if Ethan would come after her, to prove for once and for all that he would fight for her.

That he would fight for them.

But he never did.

With one last exhale, Brynn turns down the hall, letting the door to both the Diagnostic team and her future with Ethan close for good.

LEO

I stare at a giant fern sitting in the blinding sun in the corner of Milo’s office. The few times I’ve been here, it’s always bright and cheerful. It’s confusing. Divorcing Katie makes me happy, so maybe not.

“Leo?” Milo’s tone brings me back. I should probably be paying attention. “I can see you’re shocked. I don’t think we can use this, and it doesn’t change anything officially, as far as the divorce goes.”

I knew it wouldn’t. I guess it makes things easier. But I want to yell at Katie, demand some kind of explanation. Nothing will be good enough, but I need to hear something.

“All she cares about is appearances,” I sigh. “I think if I threatened to go to the press, she’d hate that.”

Milo squints and furrows his brow. “I’d warn against that. Given-” Milo looks down at his desk, to his large notepad. “Riley.”

“Katie doesn’t know about her.” I’m pissed at the thought of Katie doing anything to mess with Riley. I will dump jugs of tomato sauce all over Katie’s perfect living room if she somehow finds out and does any damn thing. “It’s not the same as whatever she’s been doing either.”

“I didn’t say it was. We aren’t sure what Katie knows,” Milo leans back in his chair. “You need to play it safe right now.”

I miss Riley. I always miss her, even when I’ve just seen her.  I wanted to send her a text earlier, asking if she wanted to grab dinner or hang out before my flight, but I stopped myself and just said I hoped work was treating her okay. It’s the middle of the day, so I don’t expect a response.

Riley sent an emoji last night of a moon and stars. I think that’s a good sign. I don’t speak emoji, but I doubt it means anything bad. I’m fucking happy she’s texting me again.

I’m so fucking happy that she’s working for the team. I know all her past crappy jobs, and she deserves this. It’s not just because I’ll see her at work too, sort of. When I’m home. Mark said she’d be around more, and I am not sure what that means.

I’m blown away that she kissed me. It wasn’t just a polite cheek peck either; it was fucking hot. She initiated it. She definitely hates me less. I don’t know how the circuit will go for the two weeks she’s there. I saw how she was at the meeting, professional but friendly. I have to follow her lead.

Riley’s tears in the car were awful, and I hate them. I’ve seen her cry a few times.  Even when it’s not because of me, like that day on the plane, it hurts. If I do nothing else right, I never want to make her sad like that again.

Spain is awesome, and I have a few places I want to show her. If she wants.

“Leo?” Milo’s exasperated tone makes me snap to attention.“Have you given any more thought to asking for alimony or anything that would encourage Katie to hire representation?”

“I won’t ask for alimony,” I shrug.

I don’t want her goddamned money. I guess I can ask for something else, but what? What does she care about? I don’t want custody of any of her family.

“Did she really call every lawyer in town?”

“In addition to a few in neighboring cities,” Milo lifts his lips in a grim smile. “Katie is shrewd, Leo. There’s nothing you want to ask for? Even if you don’t actually want it, it can go a long way in resolving this matter.”

Katie is more deceptive than I gave her credit for. What would get her attention?

I suddenly realize what will make her lose it.

“I want the house.” I grin and cross my arms over my chest, propping my feet on the small tufted ottoman. “It’s not in my name, but she said she bought it as a surprise for me.”

I do not want the house. But if I somehow get it, I have very detailed plans for what will happen to it. I’ve had two years to think about it.

“That’s a start,” Milo chuckles and lifts his pen, scrawling a few words in his notes. “I’ll draw up the papers and have them couriered in the next few days.”

While I’m safely in Greece for a week training for Spain. I wonder if I’ll be able to hear her scream from there.

“Leo,” Mark’s voice cuts through the happy thoughts I’m having of Katie losing her shit. “Don’t confront her. It won’t help. She can decide to take you to civil court, even with the information we have regarding her activities.”

My phone buzzes, and I glance at it. Elena?

“Leo! It’s me Alex! Katie isn’t doing well! Is this my fault? I told you she was high maintenance before the bachelor party and you didn’t believe me!”

Alex figured out I blocked him. I thought it’d be another couple weeks.

Alex did say that in the limo. I laughed it off, said I loved her the way she was. It was true. I thought it was true. I guess it doesn’t matter now.

I’d block Elena, but she’s not that bad. She probably doesn’t know Alex is texting me from her phone.

“I won’t,” I promise. I have no desire to see Katie on my last day here. I have to drop my car off at the garage and finish moving my shit to storage.

“Good,” Milo exhales like he’s been holding that breath a long time. “I’ll call once she’s been served.”

I’m a little sad I won’t be here for that.

———

RILEY

“Sorry I’m late!” I call as I close the front door behind me. “I had a cigar with the boys!”

Luca and I have this weird fifties housewife bit. He started it one day and whoever’s home last picks it up.

There’s a glass vase of huge peach roses on the table opposite the door. I pluck the card from the plastic holder and skim it.

“I meant what I said yesterday. I don’t want to screw this up any more than I already have. I can’t wait to see you in Spain. Love, Leo.”

Why does he have to be so smooth? It’s annoying. I didn’t make an effort to see him today. I need breathing room. I can’t decide if I’ll say goodbye in person. I’m leaning towards no.

I’m excited about Spain. I’m unsure about Leo. I miss him. I maybe feel what he said out loud. It’s all confusing.

“You go out with your fancy friends and come home smelling like smoke,” Luca appears in the kitchen doorway, collar unbuttoned and drink in hand. “Is this where I panic and say dinner isn’t ready?”

“What? No dinner?” I laugh and step out of the too-high heels I wore today. “Luckily, I was going to ask if you wanted takeout.”

“You do spoil me,” Luca sighs happily and bats his lashes. “How was work?”

“Good,” I grin and hang up my purse. “We got the new website up. I’ve been looking up shit to do in Spain when I’m there. What about you?”

There’s some canyon by the beach in Murcia, the city we’ll be in. You can rent kayaks and paddle around, and I am doing it.

“Katie came by the office early, no appointment again.” Luca’s smile drops a little. He sets his glass on the table and walks toward me. “She wants to have a big dinner when she gets back from some family trip next month; you are invited.”

“Ew, why?” I do not want to go to Katie’s for dinner. But I can’t let Luca go alone. The inside of that house has to be crazy, and I am curious.

I should probably tell Leo I sort of know her. Later.

“The aforementioned siblings have decided they want to meet me before they commit to hiring me,” Luca pulls a face. “I told her I would let her know.”

“How bad was it?” I wince. Katie is not subtle.

“She was surprisingly mellow,” Luca frowns. “She was raging a bit about whoever Leo left her for.”

My eyes widen. “What the fuck? He said there was someone else?”

I don’t know what he said, other than the little Katie told me. Maybe I’ll ask him in Spain. I don’t really want to know, but it’ll make him squirm.

“He denied that someone else was involved,” Luca shrugs. “I don’t know much else besides Katie doesn’t believe him. She did say the new woman must be dumber than rocks.”

“That’s not very live laugh love of her,” I mutter and roll my eyes. I didn’t like her before I knew that she was Leo’s wife. It feels weird to think, but that’s what she is.

I remember what Leo told me in the car about her lying and cheating on him. I don’t know what to say about any of it, besides she sucks for cheating.

I could tell Leo was hurt, and it was more anger than anything else. I’d probably have set that house on fire, but I have self-control problems.

But, Leo cheated too. It’s all a mess.

Maybe I am dumb.

Luca snickers. “She definitely has one of those signs.”

“I’ll be back,” I walk toward my room, unbuttoning my blouse as I go. “Oh, what about that place with the really yummy tamales? I have cash in my purse.”

“On it,” Luca calls, and I catch his eye and nod before closing my door.

I’m trying to find a shirt when my phone buzzes. I check it, and it’s Liam. I hesitate, but drop to my bed and decide to pick up. I need to stop dodging him. Liam didn’t do anything.

“Riley!” Liam sounds good. Happy. Guilt gnaws at my stomach. I bet he’s been worried.

“I’m sorry-” I start to say when Liam cuts me off.

“Don’t apologize,” His voice immediately makes me feel better, and I should have picked up days ago. “I’m glad you feel up to talking. How are you?”

How does one question almost make me start crying? I’m not even that big of a crier, but lately, it’s all I seem to do.

“Did you talk to him?” Leo and Liam talk about every other day, or they did. Leo said he needed to make an effort at keeping in touch, and they have a standing time now.

“I have not,” Liam confesses. “Drake spoke to him several days ago. I was waiting to speak to you first. You didn’t answer my question.”

“I’m okay,” Tears spring to my eyes, and my throat tightens. He’s not going to believe me.

“Riley,” Liam says sternly before softening. “You don’t have to pretend for my benefit.”

That’s all it takes to break me. Tears flood my cheeks, and I’m crying so hard my chest hurts. I knew this was coming. I’ve been ignoring it, only letting myself cry a little before shutting it down. Even though I cried at the beach and in my car, I held back.

Liam makes soothing noises every so often to make sure I know he’s there.

The tears mostly stop. I don’t want to head to the bathroom because Luca will try to force-feed me ice cream. I settle for using the back of my hand to wipe my eyes.

“It sounded as though you needed that,” Liam’s kind voice floats through the phone.

“Yeah, probably,” I sniff and brush at an errant tear. “How’s the tour going?”

Please let me change the subject.

“We’re in Paris for an extra few days,” Liam sounds tired. It’s probably days of meetings and wedding talk. “Drake found Savannah.”

I am so relieved for the distraction and simultaneously baffled.

“He did? That’s great, right?” I found out about all that when I went out after him in Lythikos. Olivia was being herself, and I didn’t want him to freeze to death. He talked about Savannah, how he felt like he failed her when she ran away.

Liam and Drake have that in common, feeling bad when they shouldn’t.

“Yes, wonderful.” Liam hesitates, and I know something more is coming. “Drake has a new nephew.”

“She was pregnant?” I don’t remember Drake saying that. “Before she left?”

“It’s why she left,” Liam is tapping something; I hear it bouncing off a surface. “His name is Bartie.”

“Bartie?” I snort. I can’t help it. “That sounds like Bertrand, sort of.”

“She named him after Bertrand’s father,” Liam explains. “She was fond of the idea of using a family name.”

A family name? Shit. Maxwell, you dog.

“Maxwell got her pregnant?” I shriek. Drake must want to kill him.

“Not Maxwell.” Liam trails off.

Oh my god. NO.

“Bertrand!” I splutter. “NO. No no. That means…”

I can’t say it. I don’t want to picture it. That explains why Savannah ran away.

Liam’s laugh is so loud I have to move the phone away from my ear. “It’s not unheard of.”

“I don’t want to hear it!”

“What makes you think I am going to give you those sort of details?” Liam’s laughing so much he can barely get the words out.

Luca pokes his head through the small gap in the door, his eyebrows raising. He takes in my probably blotchy face, the fact I’m only wearing a bra and skirt, and giggling on my bed. Luca’s head disappears. He’ll grill me later.

“Drake is spending some time at her apartment, convincing her to move back,” Liam continues, composing himself. “I get to meet the little man tomorrow.”

Liam sounds excited. That man and babies. He loves them.

I shouldn’t have an opinion on Drake’s sister. But he’s convincing her to move back? I don’t like the sound of that at all. Shouldn’t she want to?

Maybe it’s because of Bertrand. You can’t come back from that. Ew, does she love him?

“Uncle Liam,” I grin and stand, ignoring that Bertrand fathered a child. “Everyone is behaving, no assholes?”

“Olivia is keeping Madeleine from trying to take over wedding preparations,” Liam chuckles. “She asked after you.”

“Madeleine?” We did not get along. She’s standoffish and cold and made sure I knew how out of my depth she thought I was.

“No, Olivia,” Liam corrects. “After the coronation, she turned over a new leaf. She respects you for helping me, us. She was hurt that I never told her. But, she’s doing well. She’s going to take over command of the military when we return.”

“I’m going to have to see all that to believe it,” I snicker, then sober when I remember how Leo won’t say Madeleine’s name because she scares him. He’s such a weirdo.

“You are coming for the wedding?” Liam asks, a little cautiously.

“I wouldn’t miss it for anything,” My cheeks heat, and I’m glad he can’t see me flustered. He’d get all emotional. It’d be a weird time.

“I’d like you to stand up with me.”

“You do?” My breath hitches. Stand up with him, that means be in the wedding. I didn’t expect that.

“Yes,” Liam replies. “Regina is going to perform the ceremony; Leo is going to be a groomsman. I’d like you to be up there, too.”

“I'd love to,” I cough a little, trying to clear my throat. “Do you know when the big day is?”

“The date isn’t set in stone quite yet, but I will let you know the moment it is,” Liam promises.

“Can’t wait.” I mean it. I’m so happy for those two. Maybe a little jealous.

“Drake and I went through a tough time at the start of the season,” Liam begins. “He was furious.”

That’s a weird segue.

“About me?” I remember them having some loud conversations after the derby. I never knew how much Drake was aware of when it came to me and Liam in New York. I never said anything.

“No, about my behavior,” I hear a door click shut. Liam moved from wherever he was. “Drake didn’t know we kissed or about the Statue of Liberty. You appeared on the plane, and Drake was stunned.”

“So you had to tell him the whole thing.” I wince and balance the phone between my shoulder and ear as I continue the search for a shirt. That could not have been fun. Drake was super grouchy on the plane; I guess that makes sense now.

“Yes,” Liam’s probably rubbing his temples. He does it when he’s tired or talking about something he doesn’t really like going over. “Drake thought I was trying to leave him, without telling him.”

“It was just a kiss!” I gesture with one hand, scattering the clothes I was holding.

“It was the kiss coupled with your arrival,” Liam explains. “Drake dated a woman briefly; when he was in college, but he told me all about that when he returned.”

“Hold up; Drake had a girlfriend?” I freeze halfway to picking up a blouse off the floor.

“A casual one, yes,” Liam chuckles at my surprise. “She was kind, he says, but after the assassination attempt, Drake couldn’t leave fast enough. It’s when he knew there’d never be anyone else for him but me.”

“Wow,” I still can’t picture Drake with someone besides Liam. “That’s sweet in a crappy way.”

“I am lucky he has remained at my side,” Liam’s voice drops. “He was going to leave after the coronation, as you know. I don’t know what I would have done. A life without Drake. It feels impossible.”

Tears spring to my eyes, and I collapse back on the bed. “Well, it is not going to happen.”

“Drake and I came back from a few hard times,” Liam continues. “We worked it out, and now we’ll be together forever. I know we’ll have more fights in the future, but I know we’ll make it through. We’re on the same page.”

Sneaky bastard.

“I’ve known Leo for a month,” I tap my head against the pillowy headboard. “It isn’t the same.”

“I’m not suggesting it is,” Liam replies. “But you are a person who knows how they feel right away. You feel deeply, and you follow that feeling.”

“That’s called me making bad decisions.”

“No, that’s bravery,” Liam argues. “I need to say something, Riley. I need you to let me say it.”

My stomach sinks. “Okay.”

“I am sorry to have put you through that season. Had I gotten the bravery sooner, none of it needed to happen. You came all this way for me, and it was unfair.”

“Liam, it wasn’t your fa-“

“Yes, it was!” Liam interrupts me, his voice rising. “We had that moment, and I hoped you were someone I could fall in love with. Deep down, I knew better. I didn’t tell you or most people the truth about Drake and I. You were vulnerable, and you put yourself last, even before you discovered the truth. I’m glad to have met you and become friends, but it was to your detriment, and it’s unforgivable.”

Liam and the self-blame. Must be a day that ends in y.

“Listen to me,” I don’t like Liam down on himself like that. The talk we had in the garden at the coronation was more than enough, and I hate that he still feels guilty. Sure, I was thrown, but I moved past it. It wasn’t meant to be, and that’s okay.

“Did my heart get a little dented, yes. But, I gained so much from coming to Cordonia. You made me believe love was possible, see that I’d been avoiding it and too scared to give it a chance.”

“It came at a cost,” Liam says sternly. “You were hurt. Now Leo-”

“I don’t regret a second,” I interrupt. “Any of it.”

It’s true. Running off to Cordonia might not have gone the way I’d hoped, but I wouldn’t change anything.

I don’t regret Leo. I’m not done with him. I thought I was, then the beach, and the car. He’s leaving tonight and I don’t know what to do.

“You’re too good for him,” Liam replies wearily. “For me.”

Before I can disagree with him on his part of it, Liam keeps talking. “You fell for Leo. I know he hasn’t been honest. He should have told you the situation with Katie first. Leo gets strong feelings and tries to fight them. He didn’t with you.”

“Maybe he should have,” I snap, anger washing over me. “We both should have.”

“No,” Liam snaps right back. He’s feisty today. “I hear how you speak about him, the way he talks about you. You deserve to be loved the way Leo appears to feel for you.”

I wonder what Leo said. Liam is pissed at him, but he’s also making sure I know how the guy feels.

“Leo has been deeply unhappy for two years.” Liam’s tone is still a little tense. “He tried his damndest to hide it, but I saw. That woman is abominable. She once asked Regina if there were any spare crowns she could take home.”

“No, she didn’t.” A laugh spills from my lips before I can stop it. I can picture Regina’s face, she probably really had to work to keep it blank. She maybe did what she does with Penelope; patted Katie on the shoulder and redirected her.

“She did,” Liam sounds calmer; that laugh broke the tension. “She sold their wedding video, their photographs. She told Leo to follow his dreams and refused to support him.”

That’s why the vows were online. I wondered how they got all that.

“The racing, you mean?” I remember what Leo said about Katie not going with or texting him ever.

“Yes,” Liam says. “Leo and Katie were never going to last.”

“He was really in love with her at one point?” I ask, unable to help myself. “I’ve met her twice and-‘

“Wait just a minute,” Liam interrupts. “When did you meet her? How?”

I tell him all about how she is Luca’s new client, that we pretend to be together so she won’t flirt with him. I tell him she found him because he manages a reality star’s money, and some magazine wrote about it. Finally, I tell him our entire bizarre conversation after Leo left her.

“Does Leo know you’ve met?” Liam says after a stunned silence.

“No,” I admit. “I didn’t know who she was until I did an internet search. I couldn’t believe it.”

“To answer your question,” Liam pauses. “I spoke to Leo just after he proposed to Katie. The tower, I’ve told you some of that story.  He was giving her time to respond to his proposal, but regardless of what she said, he was ready to abdicate. He was very different, excited and hopeful for his future.”

I remember. Liam mentioned Leo left for love, and Liam knew he wanted to take over and be king. Cordonia doesn’t deserve him.

“He was in love with her.” He had to be. The way he talks about her, though, the night he told me he was getting divorced. He doesn’t like her. Did he ever?

“I thought so at first,” Liam says as kindly as he can. “But looking back, I’m not so sure. I think Leo was in love with the idea of a new life that he created, not one he was supposed to follow; planned by men before he was born.”

Leo has his own idea of a path. He loves racing, but I wonder what he’ll do after that. He can’t ride bikes forever. Especially if he hurts himself again. I bet he doesn’t know.

Maybe Leo likes the thrill, the newness. He said he loved me. I believe him, but how long does that last? Until I’m not new anymore?

“Maybe that’s all it is with me, too. More in love with the idea of me.”

“Drake seems to believe him when he says how he feels,” Liam exhales, and I hear him sip something. “I do as well, though I didn’t hear that phone call.”

If Drake believes him, that’s a good sign. Drake sees through everyone’s bullshit.

“I saw him,” I blurt. “That job with the team? I still interviewed, and I got it.”

“You got the job?” Liam crows. “That’s wonderful!”

“Thank you,” I giggle at his enthusiasm. “Leo was surprised. I told him I wasn’t going to the interview.”

“I take it Leo was thrilled,” Liam chuckles.

“Of course,” I giggle again, and it feels good to laugh. “We talked a little.”

“Are you and Leo finished?” Liam sounds a little sad.

“He told me he loved me, Liam.” I dodge the question.

“Do you feel that way?”

Before I can answer, the phone beeps in my ear, and I move it to check the screen.

“Hey, Riley. Our flight got bumped up to 9 last minute. I’ll see you in a week. xoxoxo”

I check the time. I have an hour to get to the airport. I don’t even think. I know I need to see him.

“I have to go,” the words spill from my lips as I try to find an outfit. Shit, I need to fix my face. “Leo’s flight got moved up, and I have to say goodbye. I can’t just let him leave.”

“Go,” Liam urges. “Next time I call-”

“I’ll pick up, I promise,” I finish the sentence. “Love you.”

“Love you too,” Liam says before hanging up.

I drop my phone and grab a pair of jeans and a green tank before running into the bathroom.

———

LEO

“She may not come,” Simon says after watching me glance down the long corridor for the millionth time. “I wouldn’t.”

Simon knows exactly what to say to make me feel better.

“I don’t expect her to,” I roll my shoulders back and shift on my feet. “I’m being optimistic.”

I sent a text earlier. I keep rereading it and hating it more and more. I didn’t want to say anything wrong or make her think she had to come to say goodbye. She had work today, and I know she was busy.

Damn if I am hoping against everything for her to show up and kiss me. I’m the girl again, in those stupid movies where the guy is racing through traffic and makes it just in time.

Simon clucks sympathetically. “Want me to hug you like I won’t see you for a week? Luce is probably still in the parking lot. She’d hug you.”

Simon told me he’d be right behind me and made out with his wife for twenty minutes. I can’t blame him. At least I wasn’t in the car like her sister was.

“I’m alright,” I shake my head; I don’t need pity hugs.

Simon pats my back and heads in the direction of the bathroom.

I walk over to the windows facing the airfield. This building is dead, not many people around. It usually is; it’s only for charter flights.

I’m usually psyched to get going and race again. I am. I’m excited to get out on the circuit.

Not seeing Riley every day is going to be hard. I didn’t see her for a week, and it was awful.

I hear footsteps and brace myself for Simon’s next stream of consciousness.

“Hi,”  Not Simon.

I whip around, and there Riley is. Looking more beautiful than ever. “You’re here.”

My brain fucking sucks.

“Yeah,” Riley smiles, her cheeks tinge pink, and she looks a little embarrassed. “I just ran through a parking lot and a freakishly long hallway.”

I immediately tug her into my arms. “Thank you.”

Riley hugs me back, and I feel myself relax. I breathe her in, and notice the rose shampoo is back. “Were you able to get everything done that you needed?”

After all my bullshit, she still cares.

“I did,” I pull back a little. I need to look into her eyes, just for a second. “I’ve done this a couple times; I have it all under control.”

“Okay,” Riley’s eyes search mine. “Good.”

I squeeze her again, holding her body as close to mine as I can. I don’t want to let go.

“Big night?” I take in her jeans and top. Her face is scrubbed clean, her hair is piled on her head, and she’s never looked more gorgeous.

“Yeah, Luca and I have takeout and plan on watching all the Lord of the Rings movies.” Riley’s lips curve in a rueful smile. “Not exciting, but I am all about not moving from the couch this weekend.”

Luca. Don’t react. Those movies are not sexy. Fur on feet, that creepy ass goblin.

“Sounds good to me,” I thread my fingers through hers and bring her hand to my chest as she steps back from the embrace. “Thank you. I really didn’t expect you to come down.”

“I didn’t either,” Riley bites her lip. “I got your text, and next thing I knew, I was rushing to get here.”

“You just made it,” I kiss her fingers gently. I can’t believe she’s really here somehow. No one’s ever seen me off before.

“Leo, I'm still figuring it out,” Riley moves a little closer. “I care about you, a lot.”

I can feel the but before she says it.

“But,” Riley rests her hand on my chest and looks up at me. “I don’t know yet. I know I miss you already and you haven’t even left. I just talked to your brother about you.”

“Liam?” Duh, who else? “It’s been a few days.”

“He said that,” Riley bites her lip again. She’s nervous. “I don’t know what my point was.”

“You miss me.”

Riley laughs softly and shakes her head. “I do, dammit.”

“What now?” I hold my breath.

“I don’t know,” Riley still has her hand on my chest, her finger is tracing random shapes. “Maybe try to be friends for a while first? I mean, you’re going through a fucking divorce. That's a lot.”

Riley has a point. A good one. But, I am sick of waiting. Sure, I screwed things up and backed way off, but I have been on autopilot for two goddamn years. Riley woke me the fuck up and I’m not losing her.

“I don’t want to be friends,” I lean down, pressing my lips softly to her cheek. “Is that really what you want?”

“No,” Riley’s breathing stutters and she shakes her head slowly. “Shouldn’t we at least try?”

“Okay,” I move to the corner of her mouth, smoothing another kiss against her soft skin. “Stop me if I’m too friendly.”

I rest my fingers against her jaw, and tilt her chin up. Her eyelids flutter, almost closing completely. I brush my mouth against her other cheek. My lips travel to her temple, and I can see her pulse beating in her throat. “Is that-”

The rest of my words are muffled as Riley pulls my head down, our lips crash together. Riley throws her arms around my shoulders and I pull her body against mine. Her lips part and I don’t know where she stops and I begin.

See? I can be all kinds of friendly.

“What’s going on?” Simon’s timing sucks.

Riley freezes and I chuckle against her lips. Riley backs up and runs her fingers through her hair, her cheeks flushing.

She’s so damn cute.

Simon smirks at me before turning to Riley. “Hi, Riley. Well, isn’t this a surprise?”

“I guess so,” Riley blushes a deeper shade of pink. “Uh. Hi?”

“Relax, I heard the whole story before I met ya,” Simon’s grin widens. “Mums the word. We have five minutes, Leo.”

Simon saunters off. Riley covers her face.

I peel one of her hands away, Riley drops the other. “I already thought he knew, but I totally forgot he’d be here.”

“I’ll see you in a week.” I want to say what I said before. But I’m walking a thin line, between kissing her and telling her I don’t want to be friends.

Riley’s eyes turn glassy and fuck. “A week,” she whispers. “Be careful, okay?”

Her fingers find my wrist, and my whole body warms. I didn’t know these feelings were possible before her.

“I will. I’ll text when we land.” I brush my thumb over her cheekbone. I force the tears that seem to be building back. Fuck it. I’m saying it. She looks so sad, and I can’t take it. “I love you.”

“I-” Riley blinks, and a tear falls off her eyelashes. “I believe you.”

It’s all I could have asked for. I gather her into my arms for one last hug, breathing in her citrusy perfume.

“You have to go,” Riley’s words are muffled against my chest. I hug her tightly one last time.

“I do,” I whisper in her ear. “It’s never been this hard before.”

“That’s what she said,” Riley whispers back and I can’t help but laugh.

She does that, makes me laugh when I want to hit things or cry. What she said about sleepwalking at the beach still cracks me up.

“You know what I mean,” I kiss her forehead and her nose. “I want to talk to you more, but-”

“You have to go,” Riley sniffs. “We can talk more when I get to Spain?”

I don’t really know what that means, but I don’t have time to ask.

“We’ll talk in Spain.” I agree. “I’ll call and text when I can until then.”

“Okay,” Riley nods and lifts on her toes to kiss me quickly. I hold her for a few seconds longer and Simon is calling me.

I have to get on the plane.

I keep turning back as I walk to the exit. Riley raises a hand, and I wave back. I follow Simon out the door into the warm night.

I turn back to the windows, but I can’t see her anymore. My chest aches, and I feel my throat tightening.

Simon falls into step with me as we walk toward the plane. It’s smaller than the normal one, which makes sense. I wonder if Riley will be on this plane.

“You were never this gutted before,” Simon shoulder checks me. “Welcome to the club.”

I bump his shoulder back.

—

The sun in Greece is too fucking bright. I squint as I slam the door to the cab.

I used to like Greece. Now, it just reminds me of how fucking idiotic I was.

Simon and I walk through the automatic doors toward the counter to check in. We always stay at this hotel. It’s nice, very Grecian I guess. I’m studying tall stone columns that follow the path to an infinity pool when the hair on the back of my neck stands up.

I glance around as Simon approaches the counter and gives our names. A lone woman sitting off to the side in a giant wicker chair catches my eye.

I know her.

As she stands and throws herself at me, I move backward, immediately recognizing the tall figure with long dark hair and a gauzy white dress.

“Surprise, Casanova!” The woman manages to stop herself as I pivot so the counter isn’t behind me, and take another few steps away. I am not catching her. I’m not touching her.

I hear Simon mumble something beside me, but I’m too distracted to register what he says.

What the actual fuck is Katie doing here?

———

Tags:

@alyssalauren @angelasscribbles @appleone @burnsoslow @charlotteg234 @choiceskatie @cordonian-literature @dcbbw @emkay512 @forallthatitsworth @foreverethereal123 @gabesmommie1130 @gardeningourmet @gkittylove99 @iaminlovewithtrr @kat-tia801 @kingliam2019 @ladyangel70 @lovingchoices14 @marshmallowsaremyfavorite @mom2000aggie @originaljudgepiepaper @pixelatedpassion @platapirexy @princessleac1 @queenwalton @royalpest @tessa-liam @texaskitten30 @thegreentwin @trrfanaddict @21-wishes

TRR/TRH: @jared2612 @sfb123