Liam smiled as he surveyed the beautiful disaster that was his living room. Scraps of wrapping paper and ribbon were strewn about, along with toys and clothes and candy wrappers. Breakfast dishes and coffee mugs littered the coffee table. His heart swelled as he held up his phone to take a picture of his family huddled together on the couch. Drake and Riley sat at each end with their legs stretched out on the ottoman, heads tipped back and eyes closed. Grace was curled up under Drake’s arm, her legs tucked under her to make room for Beth, who was under Riley’s arm. Liam had covered them with blankets and couldn’t resist snapping a picture of his snoozing family. They looked so peaceful. He sighed as he thought back to the conversation last night.

“You never signed the papers Liam,” Drake said. “Technically, you never abdicated. Legally, you are still the king of Cordonia.”

Liam sighed and shook his head. “No. It’s not that simple. I may not have abdicated, but I abandoned my throne and my country.”

“Yes, but you did so under duress. Out of fear for the safety of your family. We could go back. Fight for your birthright to rule Cordonia.” Riley placed a hand on Liam’s shoulder. “A birthright you never gave up, my king.”

Riley stirred and yawned as she opened one eye to look at Liam. “Go make the call, my king. It’s early morning in Cordonia by now. Drake and I will take care of this mess when we’re done napping.” A wide grin spread across his face as Liam jumped up. He kissed Riley on the cheek quickly then headed to their bedroom.

He stopped outside of Henry’s room and knocked softly. There was no answer. He opened the door and peeked inside. His son laid on the bed with headphones on as he played a game on his laptop. Liam smiled and closed the door, then headed to the bedroom. He got down on his hands and knees and pulled a lock box out from under the bed. He fished the key out of the nightstand drawer and sat on the bed to open the box. All of their important documents were inside, birth certificates, Liam’s coronation papers, marriage licenses. A large manila envelope was at the bottom. He pulled it out and turned it over in his hands as he remembered when he received it.

They had been at the safe house for almost a week. There was no word from anyone at the palace. Liam paced back and forth across the living room, unable to clear his head. He kept thinking about the night they fled the palace. Everything was left behind. Liam had grabbed the lockbox with their important documents from his desk drawer, but everything else was left. Cell phones, computers, tablets, pictures. They had been forced from their home. Why hadn’t Bastien contacted him? Why was there no tv in this safehouse? There was one phone line, and Liam had tried to call the palace several times on various numbers to no avail. He had tried to contact Bastien through the guards posted here at the safehouse. But everything was oddly quiet. It made him crazy not knowing what was happening to his country.

A knock at the door startled Liam from his thoughts. The guard approached the door as he waved Liam into the other room. He moved into the kitchen as a lump formed at the back of his throat and his stomach tied up in knots. Something was wrong. Bastien appeared in the doorway a moment later. “Bas! My god, you look awful,” Liam wrapped an arm around the guard’s shoulders and eased him into a chair. He was covered in dried blood and dirt and looked like he hadn’t slept in days. “You need to rest. Are you hungry? I’ll get Riley to make you something,” Liam turned to head into the other room, but Bastien stopped him. “No! I’m afraid there’s no time.” His eyes grew moist as he locked his gaze on the king. “I’m so sorry, your majesty. We–we’ve lost the palace. The terrorists now have access to sensitve information regarding you and your family.” he shifted his gaze to the floor, then back up. “It is time. You have to flee. Before it’s too late.”

Tears coursed down Liam’s cheeks. “Flee? To where? This is our home, Bastien. How–” his voice cracked. “Please, Liam. You must ensure the safety of your family. Get them all together. I have an escape plan in place.” Things moved so quickly after that it was all a blur. They woke the children in the middle of the night and loaded into an SUV with Bastien.

“It’s going to be quite a battle,” Bastien explained. “The duchies have secured their borders and are building their own armies. Any members of the Royal Guard who weren’t captured have joined the duchies.” Liam shot a sideways glance at Bastien. “And you, Bastien? What will come of you?” He swallowed audibly. “Sir, I will be joining the army at Lythikos. Olivia and I will do whatever we can to get rid of these terrorists. When it is safe, you can return.”

Liam shook his head. “This does not seem right. We should stay and fight too.” Bastien shook his head. “You don’t understand. There is a price on your head. On all of your heads, even the childrens’. You must go.” Bastien pulled into the back entrance of Cordonia’s airport, directly onto the tarmac. He pulled out a manila envelope and handed it to the king. “There’s passports in there for all of you. There’s also bank cards to allow you to access an American bank account that has been set up for you. All under assumed names, of course.”

He pulled out a small cell phone. “This is a burner phone. There are 2 numbers programmed into it. No one has this number, including me.” His steel-grey gaze sent a shiver down the King’s spine. “When you’re ready, call these numbers.” Liam shot him a questioning look. “Ready? For what?” Bastien smiled. “You’ll know when you are ready.”

Liam sighed as he turned the phone over in his hands. That was almost a year ago. They fled to America just after the new year. He had thought about calling the numbers on this phone every single day since they arrived here. He plugged the phone into a charger and waited for it to turn on.

He highlighted the first number and pressed send. His stomach churned as he waited for an answer. Liam had purposely avoided any news about Cordonia, it was just too painful for him to see his people struggle without him. He had no idea what had happened since they left. His focus had been on his family, he wanted to provide them the most normal existence possible.

The phone rang and rang. Liam sighed as he hung up. No answer was not a good sign. He dialed the other number and waited anxiously as it rang.

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

Bastien stood in the King’s office and took in the view of the garden maze. The maze had almost been destroyed during the occupation. He sighed as he thought about the turmoil that had torn apart his country for the past decade. Once the journal of Michael Drammir had been made public, a wave of political unrest swept across Cordonia. Several people stepped forward and staked a claim to the throne, while others questioned the ability of the king and queen to present a strong, united front to neighboring countries. Terrorist cells began forming and several attempts were made to overthrow the government. Many of Cordonia’s noble houses were no longer loyal to the crown. It seemed like peace would never settle over the country again.

Bastien had a plan that could not be executed until the Royal Family was out of the picture. He knew that the only way to gain the support of Lythikos or the Duke of Ramsford would be if the Rhys’ bloodline was removed for good. He made that happen. He sent the Royal family off to America, then once control of the capital was reinstated he released the report that the entire family had been massacred at the safe house. No one questioned the head of the King’s guard. No autopsies were performed on the bodies that were all brutally mutilated beyond recognition. Funeral services were held, caskets were placed in the Rhys’ family tomb. The entire country mourned the loss of their leaders. Once again, random people stepped forward to make claims to the throne. But the people were tired of the fighting and the monarchy.

People protested on the palace lawn during council meetings. They wanted representation. They wanted democracy. The first election in Cordonian history was scheduled to take place in just a few days. Each duchy had nominated a candidate, debates were scheduled, and a primary election took place.

The final election would decide between two candidates: Olivia Nevrakis, Duchess of Lythikos and Madeline Drammir, Duchess of Fydelia. Bastien was confident that no matter the outcome, peace would be restored to Cordonia. It had been suggested that he run himself, but Bastien was not a politician. He belonged in the background, protector of lives and secrets.

The sound of his phone ringing interrupted his thoughts. The color drained from his face when he saw the number. “Shit,” he mumbled as he turned around and bumped right into Olivia. He jumped as he ignored the call. “You love to sneak up on me don’t you,” he snickered as he wrapped his arms around her and kissed her gently. She winked at him and wrapped her arms around his neck. “Will you ever stop being so jumpy? What are you afraid of, Bas?” He laughed out loud as he locked his steel-grey eyes on her emerald pools. “I fear nothing sweetheart, I just like to be prepared for anything at any time.” He kissed her again, long and hard, then pulled away breathless. “And you keep me on my toes, my temptress.” They kissed again, then Olivia pulled away reluctantly. “See you in a couple hours? It is Christmas, you know.” Bastien nodded as he placed his hand on the small of Olivia’s back and led her to the door. He closed the door behind her and locked it, then sat in the chair behind the desk.

How was he going to handle this situation? Of course when he gave Liam that burner phone he didn’t know how events would unfold. And then when news broke of the royal family’s deaths he thought for sure that they decided to just stay gone. He figured someone would have called then. But now? There’s no way they could be allowed back into the country. All the progress that had been made would be gone in an instant. He would have to stop it. One way or another.

He picked up his phone and called back the number.

Ruby stared at the man who raised her, hope inscribed upon her face. “Papa please,” she repeated.

She loved him, he was the only father she’d ever known, but sometimes he acted as if she was still a child. Both her parents had ensured she could protect herself, and yet they treated her as though she’d easily break like glass.

Bastien sighed. “Goose …”

Ruby rolled her eyes at the nickname, proof he still saw her as a child. “You know I can take care of myself, Papa. Beau is sweet, he wouldn’t try anything, but if he did I’d make him regret it.”

He raked a hand over his face, he’d expected her to say that. She didn’t understand, she couldn’t understand without him telling her how her parents had died. Olivia and he agreed, the facts of Carolyn and Liam’s deaths would only lead to too many questions they wouldn’t be able to answer without her finding out that she was royalty.

She was too young, not ready for what knowing her position would mean. Ideally, she’d choose to return and take back her kingdom from Bradshaw, she still had two more years. Two more years and she could know. Will two years really be enough time to ensure she has the skills and knowledge needed to shoulder the responsibility?

“I know you can take care of yourself, that’s not the issue, Goose.”

“Then why? Why do I have to be driven around like a little baby when Beau could easily pick me up and drive me?”

Bastien stared at his daughter, gone was her cherubic face, the small innocent child who ran to him with her problems. Before him stood a young woman who fought him and questioned him. Her ability to stand her ground and stick up for her own beliefs would take her far as a leader. He was proud of the young woman she was becoming, but he found himself torn. He could still see the small child he clutched to his chest, the little girl who ran to him with tears in her eyes, but he could also see the strong woman she would soon become. “Goose, Mama and I would both be more comfortable if a more experienced driver took you.”

It wasn’t a complete lie. It was close enough to the truth that she would hopefully drop it. They had never allowed any of their children in a car with anyone other than them.

Her face twisted in indignation, reminding him once more of the small child who had a fiery spirit and strong will. His heart clenched and he nearly folded, nearly saying the words: sometimes even experienced drivers fail at keeping you safe, I know because I was unable to save your parents. He couldn’t, she would only question what he meant, it wouldn’t be long until she then figured out who her parents were.

“Papa that’s not fair.”

“What’s not fair?” Olivia questioned as she walked into the living room.

Ruby’s sapphire eyes lit up, if anyone could convince her papa it was her mama. “Mama, tell Papa he’s being overprotective.”

“She wants Beau to drive her on their date.”

“Absolutely not, out of the question.”

“Mama!”

“Just tell us where he’s taking you and we’ll drop you off and pick you up.”

“Well …” Ruby bit her lip, “he said he wanted to surprise me … maybe I can get him to tell me.”

Olivia and Bastien shared a look, both knowing what the other wasn’t saying; this didn’t feel right. “No, give me his number and I’ll find out.” Olivia replied.

Ruby grimaced, her mother talking to the boy she liked certainly didn’t bode well for her, though she knew if she didn’t comply she wouldn’t be going at all. She wasn’t sure what was worse, telling him her parents changed their minds or allowing her mother to call him. Each of her ‘options’ would result in the same outcome: complete social suicide.

She heaved a sigh as she passed her mother her phone. Please don’t embarrass me too much.

- - -

Ruby sat back in the cracked leather seats of the old blue and white pick up. She still didn’t understand how Beau had been able to change her mother’s mind. Her mother rarely changed her mind, even for her father.

She caught sight of Beau continually glancing down at the speedometer. Her eyebrows knit together in confusion. “Why are you doing that?”

“Doing what?” Beau responded, not taking his eyes off the road.

“Why do you keep checking the speed?”

He gave a nervous laugh. “Well, I promised your mom I wouldn’t go over the speed limit.”

Ruby twisted her body to face him. “That’s how you convinced her to let you pick me up?”

She’d been dying to know what he’d said to convince her headstrong mother. She had hoped to learn when he picked her up but both of her brothers’ had to make sure that Beau knew not to make their sister cry. At ten and seven they were both well on their way to be as apt at defending themselves as she was. Both boys were fiercely protective of their sister, it was sweet, but sometimes they went overboard.

“Yea …” he lifted his hand from the wheel to scratch the back on his neck, better not, he thought, replacing his hand on the steering wheel. “I also had to give her my number, promise to call when we got there, told her where we’re going, she has my mom’s number as well as the number of the place we are going and I have to call her when we leave.”

“Oh. My. God.” Ruby exclaimed slumping forward, her face falling into her hands. Her mother had gone too far. She surely would never live this down at school. “I’m so sorry.” Her words were muffled by her hands.

She had never before felt such embarrassment. She willed the floor beneath her to open up. Bouncing along the paved road sounded so appealing at the moment.

“Relax Ruby, it’s fine.”

Her head snapped up, “really?” The words escaping her mouth a second before she realized that she was in his car; he had agreed to the conditions.

“Yea, I mean my parents nearly lost it when my older sister started dating. It was slightly better when I did, and it took forever for them to allow me to drive by myself.”

She looked at the window, taking in the landscape as it passed by. Large stretches of fields, occasionally dotted with a home or barn. Her eyes widened as he turned down a long dirt lane. “So where are we going?”

“This is my grandparents' property, they let us practice shooting out here. Your mom said I shouldn’t be too upset if you school me.”

Her sun kissed cheeks tinged pink. Of course her mother would brag about her ability. She was usually proud to show off and show any boy up. The girls at school teased her that she’d never get a boyfriend if she insisted on being better than them. Her mother always said any guy worthy of her wouldn’t feel insecure if she outshined them. She was torn, should she give it her all or hold back?

She glanced over at him, could he handle her showing him up? He’d planned this date before speaking to her mother, so maybe he could.

“She did tell me I better have you home in time for your birthday dinner … I’m surprised they let you come out. My parents always insist we stay home on our birthdays.”

“Yeah,” she tucked her hair behind her ear. “They let us pick one thing to do for our birthdays. Plus Papa made his special birthday pancakes that Mama hates. He started making them when I was eight and Galen was three. He wanted something special for breakfast and it just became tradition for all our birthdays.”

- - -

Ruby slowly lowered the shotgun, a small smile playing on her lips as she pulled the noise canceling headphones off. Beau’s excited hoots and hollers filtered in spreading the smile wider.

“Look at you Eagle Eye, I don’t think any of the grandkids ever hit that target with such accuracy.” Beau said, his hazel eyes shining brightly.

Ruby shrugged, “I’ve had a lot of practice.”

Beau stepped closer. “Why do you do that?” He asked carefully removing the safety goggles from her face.

“Do what?” Her mouth suddenly grew dry at how close he was to her.

“Deflect my compliments. You do it at school too.”

“Oh.” She fought the urge to lower her gaze. Would he understand or laugh if she told him the truth? Sometimes it’s tough being good at almost everything and having all eyes on me.

“You don’t have to do that with me.”

She stared up at him in awe, the sincerity on his face clear. For a moment she envisioned the following year walking in the halls with him laughing.

Would she still be there in a year? She pushed the worry away.

She’d deal with it if and when the time came. For now she’d live in the moment, have fun getting to know a guy who liked her and didn’t want her to hide herself.

This might be the best birthday yet.

Feedback fuels me, please like, comment reblog or send an ask. Feel free to scream, I promise I can take it.

Masterlist can be found in my bio.

Taglist will be reblogged.

Bastien stood in front of the mirror, freshly showered and shaved. He ran a comb through his hair then stared at his reflection for a long time. He tried to make sense of the feeling in the pit of his stomach that had been growing since his encounter with Olivia earlier. He was surprised at the effect she had on him. And he couldn’t shake the feeling that she was up to something. His eyes narrowed as he scolded himself with his thoughts.

Don’t let her get under your skin.

Remain in control at all times.

Even as he repeated the words over and over again in his head he couldn’t help the flashes of fiery red hair in his mind’s eye. Lady Olivia always had her hair restrained, usually pulled up in a bun on the top of her head. During their earlier encounter he imagined pulling her close and loosening her hair. He could see the crimson waves fall around her face to her shoulders as she shook her head violently then met his eyes as she sank her teeth into her bottom lip.

A soft knock at the door interrupted the fantasy. “Shit, get a hold of yourself,” he cursed aloud as he turned away from the mirror. He moved into the other room, but stopped short of the door when he realized he was wearing nothing but a towel that barely covered his raging erection. He sighed in annoyance and called out, “One second please,” as he scrambled to pull on a pair of sweatpants.

He heard a whoosh sound and the sound of someone walking away from the door as he pulled a shirt over his head. He looked over and saw a manila envelope that was slid under the door. He moved to open the door quickly, but whoever left the envelope was gone. He closed the door and opened his top dresser drawer to retrieve a pair of gloves. He picked up the envelope gingerly, being careful to only handle the edges as he flipped it over to open it. He shook his head as he slid the single piece of paper out of the envelope. He knew exactly who left the envelope. There was a yellow post-it stuck to the paper with a scribbled note.

The final seed has been planted.

The color drained from Bastien’s face as he skimmed the contents of the page. He reached for his phone and sent a quick text before going to the closet to get dressed.

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

Olivia swirled the ice cubes around in her empty glass as she glanced at the clock on the wall. 8:15. She did not like to be kept waiting. After 5 more minutes she stood up with an annoyed sigh and walked over to the bar to pour another drink. She added some more ice and covered the cubes with vodka, then added a splash of tonic and a twist of lime. She swirled the glass around again before gulping down half the glass. Then she walked back to the couch and set the glass on the table in front of her as she checked the clock again. 8:25.

Despite her annoyance, Olivia couldn’t help but be concerned. She knew Bastien was very punctual and meticulous. There is no way he could run this late without contacting her. Unless maybe he chickened out. Got cold feet. She smirked as she grabbed her glass and took another swig. That didn’t sound like Bastien either. At least not the man she knew. But then again, she only knew him as head of the Royal Guard. Always stoic, never wavering. She knew very little about Bastien, the man.

She finished off her drink and set the glass back on the table with an authoritative thud. She walked over to the full-length mirror on the other side of the room. Her black cocktail dress hugged her curves in all the right places and the scoop neckline showed just a hint of cleavage. She didn’t want to come on too strong. Her hair was parted and swept over her left shoulder in soft waves. The dress came to about mid-thigh and she wore black stockings that shimmered in the light. Red patent-leather stilettos finished off her look of seduction. She looked perfect.

“What a waste,” she mumbled out loud as she turned to check the clock again. 8:30. Ok, obviously something was wrong. The question was, what should she do about it? Just then her phone pinged. She found her phone in her purse on the bed and unlocked it. She expected to see a text, but rolled her eyes when she realized it was a news notification. She clicked on it, then her jaw dropped to the floor as she read the headline across the top of the screen. “Oh my god, no,” she stammered as she dropped her phone.

The Duchess didn’t even stop to pick up the phone or grab her purse, or even her keys. She opened the door and sped through the halls as quickly as possible. The closer she got to the Royal Apartment the more people were buzzing about the halls. Royal Guards were everywhere, blocking every entrance and exit, even the secret passageways. She pushed through until she found who she was looking for.

There he was, standing outside the entrance to the apartment, giving orders through his earpiece. He was a little more unkempt than usual, his suit was still perfectly pressed but his hair wasn’t slicked back and in his haste he forgot to put on a tie. She was struck by how sexy he looked, she had never seen him like that before. She stopped short a few feet away.

As if he sensed her presence, Bastien looked up and locked his grey eyes on her emerald pools. She saw something there this time, a flicker of emotion. But what emotion was it? Anger? Sadness? Relief? She couldn’t quite tell. She moved close to him with a look of concern. “Are you ok,” she asked in a voice barely above a whisper. He nodded.

“Are my friends ok,” she asked as her eyes dampened with tears. He shook his head as they locked eyes again and a chill ran down Olivia’s spine as she realized what emotion she saw on Bastien’s face.

It was fear.

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

Madeline could not wipe the grin off her face as she gave a nonchalant wave to the guard at the palace gate. It wouldn’t be long before Bastien sent guards to her quarters to fetch her. Then he would send a caravan out to look for her in the city and lock down the palace. The Royal Guard would patrol all the well-known routes between the palace and Fydelia. They wouldn’t find her.

She turned off onto a small, two-lane road that led into the forest and twisted into the mountains. Leo had shown her this route when they were together, a back road that connected Cordonia with its duchies. He used it often to avoid the press. By the time her phone buzzed from the news notification, she was already deep into the surrounding forest and the sun was almost completely set. She laughed out loud as she imagined the chaos at the palace. Her plan was in motion. All she had to do was wait and watch it unfold.

The only unknown was Bastien. Would he accept her offer? She remembered their conversation the day before.

“Once public support begins to falter for the current Royal Family, we release the journal. Then I use it as a basis to stake a claim for the throne. All I need from you is the journal.”

“What’s in it for me?”

“A place at my side. To rule as my king. We could marry and stake the claim together.”

She had tried to read a reaction in Bastien’s eyes, but as usual it was impossible to tell what he was thinking. He said nothing, just raised an eyebrow at her and turned to leave. Madeline knew she had him thinking about it, he would have detained her right there otherwise. But he turned a blind eye and allowed her to continue with her plan.

Sometimes, inaction is a reaction.

Riley stood behind the podium, her nerves on edge as the cameras flashed in her face. She had insisted on announcing this pregnancy on her own despite protests from both Liam and Drake. Now she felt like a fool. What made her think she was strong enough to do this on her own? She searched the crowd frantically for a friendly face as Madeline continued with her own speech, mostly palace announcements regarding upcoming events. Riley’s stomach was in knots as Madeline began to wrap up. Just as she was about to introduce the queen, Riley felt a warm presence at each of her arms. She turned to her right and saw Liam smiling at her. At her left was Drake. She grabbed each of their hands in hers and breathed a deep sigh of relief. “Thank you both so much. I’m not sure I could go through with this without you.” She squeezed both their hands just as Madeline announced her name and the crowd applauded as the three of them stepped up to the podium. 

Riley delivered her speech perfectly, announcing her pregnancy and declaring that an heir would be born in 7 months time. The collective gasp from the audience left her slightly unsettled as the reporters began shouting questions at them. They were pretty much what she had expected. 

“Queen Riley, who is the father? Were you unfaithful to the king? 

“How can we be sure this child is a true blood heir to the throne?

“What role will Drake play in the child’s life?”

Liam cleared his throat as a flash of anger swept over him. “How dare you accuse the queen of impropriety? I assure you that this child is an heir regardless of it’s parentage. This baby was born from the love shared between the three of us and that’s all that matters.” 

The press was in an uproar and continued to call out questions. Madeline stepped forward and pushed her way in front of them. She smiled sweetly. “We have no further comment at this time. Thank you all for coming.” She turned and ushered the three of them off stage and through the door leading into a conference room. Bastien closed the door and kept watch outside.

Madeline smirked at the three of them. “I told you this was a bad idea. This is gonna take some serious damage control.” Liam glared at Madeline. “No, it’s better that we were truthful now. Madeline shook her head. “You three just don’t get it do you. A lot of people will not accept an heir who is not a direct blood descendant of the Rhys family.” She looked pointedly at each of them. “Regardless of who raised them. I will do my best to spin this in a positive light, but I suggest you increase your personal security. Especially for the queen.”

Madeline got up and left the room. She shot Bastien a wink at the door, leaving it open for him to enter. He stepped into the room and his heart wrenched as he saw the dejected look on Drake’s face. He sighed deeply. “Your majesties, I am doubling your personal security details. At least until this dies down a bit. We need to minimize your public appearances.” Riley shook her head as she looked at Bastien. “No. We will not hide away from our people. They will accept this. It just may take some time. Bastien locked eyes with Drake and then Liam. “Do you two feel this way too?” An awkward silence hung between them as the two men exchanged a glance. Riley’s mouth dropped open as her temper flared. “Is this how we present a strong front??? Three united as one, remember?” She looked at both of them with tears welled up.

“My love, we are just concerned for the safety of you and the baby,” Liam tried to explain but Riley stood up and headed to the door. She paused at the door and turned to look at her husbands. Tears coursed down her face as she shook her head, unable to speak. She turned and left the room, slamming the door behind her. Liam narrowed his eyes at Bastien. “Do whatever you must to keep her safe.” He stood up abruptly and bent down to kiss Drake’s cheek. “I have a meeting.” He left Drake looking dejected as he sighed and hung his head in his hands.

                           ***********

Liam could hear the authoritative clicking of high heels coming down the hallway toward his study and knew it was Olivia. She always had an air of confidence and authority that preceded her, even when the visit was informal. A moment later there was a knock at the door. Liam cleared his throat and tried to sound as confident as Olivia always was. “Enter.” He looked up and saw the fiery redhead poke her head in the door. “Is now a bad time, your majesty?” Liam stood and gestured for her to come in and have a seat. “No, of course not. And please, the formalities are not necessary when it’s just us, Olivia.” She nodded and closed the door behind her then sat down. “Well, I am at your disposal for the next two weeks, possibly longer if needed. Please tell me how I can help.” 

Liam flashed her a grateful smile. “Thank you for coming on such short notice. I need your help.” Olivia smiled at her king and friend. “Of course. What can I do for you?” Liam explained everything that happened with Bastien and Madeline and the reaction to the pregnancy announcement. Olivia listened intently, then a look of confusion crossed her face. “I don’t understand how I can help. What exactly would you like me to do, Liam?” 

Liam sighed and pinched the bridge of his nose. “I know this is a lot to ask, but I want you to get close to Bastien. On a personal level. Very personal, if you get what I mean. I want you to make him trust you enough to tell you his deepest, darkest secrets.” Olivia narrowed her eyes at Liam as the color drained from her face. “So you want me to sleep with him? With Bastien? The man who was almost like a father figure to us when we were kids?” She shook her head and looked away. “I don’t know, Liam. I mean I’m good, but this will be extremely difficult. Do you really think I could make him attracted enough to me to sleep with me?”

Liam smiled as he stood up. “My dear Olivia, I believe you are the only person who has a shot at this. You could seduce the pants off of anyone.” Olivia shrugged as she stood up. “Good point. Ok, I’ll try my best. But I have to ask, what information are you hoping to gain here?” Liam looked Olivia right in the eye. “ I just want to know where his loyalty lies. If I can trust him.” 

Olivia nodded as she turned and headed for the door. “Of course. Give me a little time and I’ll have him eating out of my hand like a puppy.” She flashed Liam a beaming smile and headed out the door to her quarters. 

                      ************

It didn’t take long for Olivia to discover that Bastien was a creature of habit. She paid attention to his routine for a couple days, fairly certain she was not on his radar. He woke up at 4am daily, went for a run, then had breakfast. He showered and reported for duty at 7am sharp. He was head of the King’s personal detail until 1pm. He then spent the rest of the day in the security office doing god knows what. He left the office promptly at 6 and went to the palace gym for sparring and weapons practice. Sometimes he taught classes for some of the younger guards. Olivia started timing her workouts to coincide with his. After a few days of observing her target she was ready to make her move. She observed quietly as Bastien worked with a few younger guards. He was teaching them techniques to use to disarm people with daggers. Once they had finished and the other guards dispersed, Bastien spoke to Olivia without looking at her. “How did you enjoy my lesson, Duchess Olivia? I prepared it specifically for your benefit.” 

She smirked as he turned to lock eyes on her. His steely eyes remained unreadable as they locked on her emerald pools. “What are you up to? Why have you been watching me?” Olivia feigned innocence as she held up her hands, palms out. “I don’t know what you are talking about. Are you accusing me of something?” They both stood in front of each other, arms folded across their chests, with their eyes narrowed. Silence hung between them as they sized each other up with their gaze. Bastien smiled and shook his head. “Not at all, your grace. I am simply curious as to why you’ve been watching me. If there’s something you want to know, all you have to do is ask.”

Olivia cocked her head to one side as she studied Bastien intently. A seductive grin spread across her face as she moved closer to him. “Will you have dinner with me? Tonight?” Her eyes were bright and lusty as she looked at him. She placed her hand gently on his arm in anticipation. Bastien swallowed hard, amazed at the attraction that came from just that light touch of her hand. He smiled at her as his cock twitched in his pants. “Yes. I will have dinner with you. I’ll come by your quarters at 8.” He turned and headed for the door, feeling cautiously relieved. He thought she was spying on him, but perhaps he was wrong. Maybe she just had a crush. And he couldn’t deny he was attracted to the young duchess. He turned at the door to face her once more. “I’m picking where we have dinner though. My only condition.” Olivia smiled at him sweetly. “Of course. I’ll be ready and waiting for you by 8.” They exchanged one more smile before he headed out the door.

It worked. She was in.

“I’m sorry about dinner,” he said, his voice a bit more throaty than usual. She smiled and took a step closer so he could breathe in her scent. “It’s not like you don’t have a good excuse,” she said. Then she lowered her voice and whispered in a sultry tone, “I’m still hungry. How about a midnight snack?” She winked at him and he swallowed again, audibly.

He just couldn’t believe the effect this woman had on him. It took all of his restraint to keep himself from kissing her right here. He imagined her wearing nothing but those stilettos and back-seam stockings with her fiery hair wild and green eyes dark with lust. What was happening? He tried to push his thoughts away as he smiled at her. “I think that sounds perfect. I'll be relieved shortly. Do you care to wait here or shall I meet you?” Olivia leaned forward again to whisper close to his ear, “I’m not letting you out of my sight this time.” The feel of her hot breath on his neck sent flutters to the pit of his belly. He shifted uncomfortably to accommodate his hardening member. He was speechless and breathless as she smiled and took a few steps back to lean against the wall.

Bastien cleared his throat as he tried to focus on business. “So I assume there will be a press conference tomorrow, correct?” Olivia nodded. “Yes of course. Do you have any idea of Madeline’s whereabouts?” He shifted his weight as he shrugged and avoided her eyes. “I’ve sent patrols out to search for her. They will be covering all the routes from here to Fydelia.” Something about his response did not sit well with her. She felt like he knew more than he let on. Maybe Liam was right to not trust him. Perhaps his loyalty should be in question.

She smiled at him as a guard approached them and Bastien pulled him to the other side of the hall to debrief him. There was a definite spark between her and Bastien. But she had to stay focused. She had to earn his trust completely, become his confidante. She swallowed as he turned to face her. He took his earpiece from his ear and took a step toward her as he held out his elbow for her to link her arm through his. “Ready for that snack?” He raised an eyebrow at her. “Most definitely,” she said with a smile as she slid her arm through his. He led her down the hallway away from the royal apartment.

Olivia squealed when she realized where Bastien was leading her. “We’re going to raid the palace kitchen, aren’t we?” Even though she hadn’t meant a literal midnight snack, her stomach rumbled at the thought. Bastien smiled and nodded as they slipped into the dark kitchen. She released his arm as he walked over to the far wall to flip the light switch. Olivia couldn’t help but smile as she opened the large refrigerator to peruse its contents. “This is so cool. Liam, Drake and I used to come down here late at night to raid the kitchen for snacks.” She grabbed a plate of cheese and crackers and set them on the counter.

Bastien smiled at the duchess from across the room. “Yes, I remember.” He crossed his arms across his chest and chuckled as Olivia popped a cracker with cheese into her mouth and looked at him in surprise. “You knew? I don’t understand. How…..” Bastien giggled again and crossed the room before he responded. He grabbed a cracker and some cheese. “Lady Olivia, I knew everything that happened in this palace, it was my duty. It still is my duty.” He popped the snack into his mouth and motioned upwards. Olivia followed his gaze and saw a small camera lens embedded into one of the light fixtures. Her mouth dropped open as she looked around the kitchen. Now that she had noticed one, she could see those little cameras everywhere. “Oh my god. You mean, you saw everything that happened in this kitchen?” Bastien grinned as Olivia’s face flushed deep red.

“Lady Olivia, I see everything that happens in public areas of this palace. Once again, it is my duty. But you don’t have to worry.” He popped another cracker into his mouth. He gazed into her eyes with a gentle smile and tucked an unruly strand of red curls behind her ear. “Discretion is also my duty,” he said softly. “Your childhood secrets are safe with me.”

Olivia couldn’t help feeling a bit flustered as she recalled all of the dumb things she had done under Bastien’s watchful eye. She remembered the brief romance she and Liam had when they were teenagers. He kissed her for the first time in this kitchen. She also lost her virginity to him, bent over the kitchen island in the middle of the room. And then there was that day about a year later when Liam was out of town and she and Drake had gotten hold of some whiskey and they went to the kitchen for some ice cream and they made out by that same island. Yes, Bastien knew a lot of her secrets.

She shook it off and smiled at him sweetly. “What happens in the kitchen, stays in the kitchen?” He laughed heartily. “Something like that, yes.” Olivia moved closer to him as she gave him a sultry look. She positioned herself directly in front of him and continued to move closer until she was pressed against him and he was up against the counter. “In that case, I guess I can do this,” she barely whispered as she wrapped her arms around his neck and pressed her lips into his. They kissed softly at first, then Bastien moaned into the kiss as he deepened it. He allowed his hands to roam freely, one tangled up in her hair and the other cupped her ass cheek and pulled her close.

Olivia forgot everything in that moment, forgot her focus, her mission. All she knew was Bas and how he made her feel. Passion flowed through her, all the way to the tips of her toes and back to the pit of her belly. She was breathless as he kissed her and she could feel his hardness pressing against her pelvis. She broke the kiss and moaned softly as she hiked her dress up to wrap one leg around his waist. They locked eyes as Olivia grinded into his pelvis.

“Oh, Bas, I–.” Her voice came out in a hoarse whisper as her emerald eyes grew dark with lust. She fumbled with his belt and unbuttoned his pants, then pulled down the zipper and slid her hand inside. She stroked him slowly as he slid his hand around from her ass and slipped it up the slit of her dress. Her legs quivered as his fingers slid her panties to the side and slowly circled her clit, then moved down and sunk into her wet center. Olivia trembled as she felt tension growing in her belly and she locked onto his steely gaze. She was so close. So close to being putty in his hands.

The vibration came from Bastien’s hip. Olivia felt it radiate into her leg as they both froze. His look changed almost immediately as he slid his fingers from inside her. He pushed her back slightly and buttoned his pants as he looked at her apologetically. “My apologies, Lady Olivia. I must check my phone.” She nodded, “Yes of course.” Her heart still raced and she felt a little breathless. She smoothed her dress and her hair and tried to compose herself, but she felt like her insides were jello. She watched him as he answered his phone, his voice even and professional. He moved to the other side of the room and Olivia was still so flustered that she didn’t even think to try to eavesdrop. How did he do that? He turned off his passion and emotions like a switch.

She marvelled at him as she watched him on the phone. And people thought she was the ice princess? Olivia was raised to control her emotions at all times, especially in public. She thought she was pretty good at it too.

But the duchess may have met her match.

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

Bastien was more than annoyed when his phone vibrated. Inwardly, he growled in frustration as he moved across the room and glanced at the screen. Someone was calling him at this hour? The screen flashed ‘unknown’ as it buzzed in his hand. He pressed the answer button and struggled to keep his voice even and unemotional.

“Hello. This is Bastien.”

Silence. But he could hear shaky breathing on the line. He said hello again and listened to the same breathing. His annoyance turned to anger. “Look, I’m a very busy man. I don’t have time for games. Say something or I’m hanging up and I’ll have this call traced. Just because you blocked your number doesn’t mean I can’t find you.”

“I need to know where we stand,” a female voice whispered shakily.

He squeezed his eyes shut and tried to think of something to say quickly. Shit, she must be an idiot. Why was she calling him? “Now is not a good time. Have you reached your destination?”

She sighed deeply. “Not yet. I’m almost there. I had to stop for a bit.” Bastien rolled his eyes but kept his voice and demeanor unassuming. “You shouldn’t have stopped. People are on your tail. Get moving. We’ll be in touch.”

He hung up the phone and spun around right into Olivia’s arms. She looked up into his eyes innocently and smiled at him sweetly. “You’ll be in touch with who?” Bastien didn’t miss a beat. He smiled at her. “It was just Mara wanting a debriefing of tonight’s events. She just came on duty. I told her I’d talk to her later.” Olivia narrowed her eyes then opened her mouth to respond but Bastien did not allow it. He pressed his mouth to hers as he explored the inside of her mouth with his tongue. He pulled away after a few minutes.

“Lady Olivia, I have enjoyed our ‘snack’ very much. However, I am afraid I really must get some sleep. I have to be back on duty at 7am. May I escort you back to your quarters?” The duchess nodded dreamily as she gazed into his eyes. She laced her fingers through his, completely enraptured with him as he led her through the halls and to her door. He kissed her one more time, then said goodnight.

She opened her door and shut it behind her. She leaned up against the door and closed her eyes, her lips still tingled from his kiss and her body was on fire from his touch. Her stomach fluttered and her mind felt foggy. What the fuck just happened? She had never experienced anything like this.

Yes, the duchess had definitely met her match. A dangerous match.

Bastien tugged his warm pea coat tighter around his body as the air whipped the rain around him. With each step on the worn pavement he silently cursed not grabbing an umbrella before leaving the apartment. What I really need is a fucking raincoat.

The past year had brought them many places, going by many names. They never stayed in one place for long, the fear of being tracked kept them moving, and always with an escape plan. For the past six weeks they’d called Seattle home. It wasn’t home, and it would never feel like it, but it was a safe place they could just live without worry.

Here they go by Carol and John Taylor. Next, Olivia will pick their fake names. It didn't matter because they knew who they really were.

His feet pounded against the stairs to the walkup apartment they shared, his hands carefully cradling a small cake covered in pinks and reds.

After six weeks in Seattle, he could venture out and make it home quickly. He knew all the shortcuts. He knew how they got there and where they would leave to.

- - -

Olivia’s finger hovered over the link, was she ready to see in words and possibly pictures the truth she already knew? Was she ready to see in ‘print’ what had become of her nation, her duchy since she fled like a coward instead of staying and fighting like a Nevrakis warrior? Your ancestors would be ashamed to call you kin. I left to save the kingdom. I can do more to help raising the heir than I could dead.

She swallowed as her finger pressed on the link. Let’s see how bad it is.

She already was aware that she wouldn’t recognize her own nation. Everything that could help Bradshaw fund his own foolish endeavors had been stripped from the land. She knew that the people were forced to serve Auvernal, they had three choices: work in his army, work the land, or live in squalor.

Her emerald eyes widened as she saw the name on the byline of the underground Cordonian news. Ana DeLuca? Who knew she had it in her.

REIGN OF TERROR

Today marks one year since our nation should have gone into a period of mourning. Instead of being granted time to grieve our beloved king and queen and their unborn heir we were served the heads of our slain leaders on spikes.

Those who saw the gruesome sight outside the palace gates first hand fell to their knees driven to tears. They said the queen and king were hardly recognizable, but they knew in their bones: it was them.

There have been some whispered reports that while our fallen queen had reportedly fallen prey to wolves that many do not believe our case to be truly hopeless. Could the heir be out there somewhere waiting to take flight and reclaim our fallen nation? Could the Valtorian Phoenix rise once again?

Olivia looked up from her tablet as she heard familiar soft steps behind her. “There’s my little princess!” Olivia cooed placing her tablet down.

“Is it really smart to call her that? We are trying to go undetected.”

“We’re in America, it’d be weirder for a little girl to not be called princess here.” She looked at the blonde-haired, sapphire eyed baby she’d been pretending was her own. “Isn’t that right Ruby? Everyone’s a princess here.”

Ruby leaned forward, her chubby hands reaching for Olivia. “Mama.”

Olivia pulled the little girl into her arms, a brief sadness flashed in her emerald eyes.

To everyone around them, she was Ruby’s mother. She felt guilty that she must parade a friend’s child as her own, but they needed the heir to survive.

She looked down at Ruby, a smile once again gracing her lips. “That’s right princess, now let’s go celebrate with cake.”

- - -

Ruby’s sapphire eyes sparkled with wonder and excitement as she shoved her cake covered meaty fist into her mouth. Her eyes widened as the sweet vanilla buttercream melted on her tongue with an explosion of flavor.

Bastien and Olivia laughed as they watched Ruby shove fistfuls of cake and icing in her mouth.

“Is it good pumpkin?”

“Dada!” Ruby replied leaning forward in her high chair, her hands full of smushed cake.

Olivia took a careful step back as Bastien leaned forward. “Yes baby girl, share with papa.”

Ruby’s cake coated hands reached up to Bastien’s face, her hands smearing cake into his beard.

Olivia let out a loud laugh as she watched Ruby paint his face with cake and icing.

Bastien turned his steely eyes sparkling with mischief. “I think mama wants some too.”

Olivia shook her head. “No mama doesn’t.”

“Mama!” Ruby squealed reaching for Olivia.

“You don’t want to make the birthday princess cry do you?”

She mouthed ‘low blow’ to him as she took a hesitant step forward. He knew she could never say no to Ruby, she’d lost everything already Olivia would give her all that she could. She let out a shriek as Bastien wrapped his arms around her waist pulling her into his lap. Ruby squealed, her feet kicking as she reached for her mama’s face, her cake coated fingers grabbing a fistful of hair and smearing icing on her cheek.

For one day they felt like the family they pretended to be. They weren’t on the run hiding from a tyrant. They were just them, and for that moment it was all they needed.

- - -

Olivia pulled the door to the small bedroom shut behind her with a soft click. “She’s finally asleep.”

“She had a big day.” Bastien smiled as images of their day played in his head. “Actually I’m surprised she wasn’t more worn out.”

A small smile played on her lips. “I think she was too excited to be worn out. It was nice being able to pamper and treat her like the royalty she is for one day.”

He pulled his lips into a thin line. He knew she wasn’t exactly happy with the way we’re forced to live, he knew if she could she’d spoil Ruby with all the luxuries of the world. “Well, we need to be careful, Bradshaw—”

“Bradshaw and his men won’t find us here, we were careful.” She crossed the small living room to the window looking out the third story window.

They had used multiple false identities while traveling, never using one persona more than once. She’d cut her hair into a chin-length bob and dyed it a deep auburn to help keep them hidden. They were safe.

Her lips curved down as she stared out the window, watching the rain silently hit the windows. Rain, it was nearly always raining. She missed the cold, the snow. She missed being able to hunt on her own land and eat fresh meat. She hated going to the store and speaking to a man in a bloodstained apron who knew less about cuts of meat than she did. She hated that she had to purchase meat that smelled faintly of bleach.

She missed Cordonia.

“Why did we have to stay here? It’s always raining.” She placed her hand on the cold windowpane, closing her eyes trying to imagine she was home. “We could have chosen Boston, or Montreal, somewhere where it gets more snow than rain.”

“There are multiple escape routes, easier if we have to pick up and leave.”

She nodded, she didn’t like it, but he was right. Her comfort wasn’t as important as their safety. They just needed to keep Ruby safe, hopefully, we’ll still have a home to return to.

Feedback fuels me, please like, comment reblog or send an ask. Feel free to scream, I promise I can take it.

Masterlist can be found in my bio.

Ruby’s hands shook as she slid the letter opener under the flap of the sealed envelope. She’d always questioned her name, with golden blonde locks, and sapphire blue eyes she had always found her name to be more fitting of someone with crimson locks, like her Mama. Her Papa always told her he’d promised to give her the name moments before she was born.

She knew her mother died shortly after or before her birth, her Papa wasn’t clear on exactly when, he always grew quiet when asked. She heard her mother was strong and brave, and had a wonderful singing voice, but not much else.

She carefully pulled the crisp white paper from the yellowed envelope. She had been puzzled when her Papa handed it to her, all he or her Mama would say was it was time to learn the truth, her truth.

She ran her fingers over the elegantly scripted words.

Our dearest child,

We’ve been looking forward to your arrival. We’ve been counting the hours until the day you are born. We can’t wait to hold you and see your face for the very first time.

Most importantly, we’re going to be a family. Always there for each other. Ready to understand and believe. We will always be there for you if you ever find yourself in need of a guiding hand or a loving hug.

Life is full of surprises. Ups and downs. Sometimes things don’t go as planned, but we’ll love and support you no matter what.

Ruling Cordonia will seem like a big job, but your mother and I have every faith in your ability. Know that you come from a long line of people who once walked a similar path. Though things may seem daunting, we know that you shall preserve just as those before you have.

Ruby paused. Cordonia. The name felt familiar, like she should know where or when she heard it. Her mind falling blank. She pursed her lips as she continued to read. She could work on placing how she knew the country later.

You have so much strength and courage and you aren’t even here yet, but I know this because all I have to do is look at your mother to know you will take after her. You will be strong and courageous just as she’s always been and have the kind and loving heart we both contain. You will be the best of both of us.

Please remember times aren’t always easy, but you can do anything with the right people by your side. We have both learned that from each other and the love of our friends.

In spite of the hardships you may face, know that Cordonia will appreciate all the creativity and heart you bring to each challenge. Because we know you will be ready to take on anything. There are lots of twists and turns in life, and you need to keep your head on a swivel and your mama on speed dial.

We know that we can teach the lessons you’ll need to weather any storm.

We’re already so proud of the wonderful things we know you’ll do, of the person we know you’ll be. And we couldn’t be more proud to call you ours or love you more.

Love,

With all our hearts

Mom & Dad

Ruby watched as fresh tears dropped on the page, mingling with those dried tears of her parents. Her parents. She always knew her Mama and Papa weren’t blood, but they, along with her siblings were all she ever had.

She stared down at her father’s elegant script, watching as the fresh tears blur the once-crisp black letters. She felt as though she understood who they were even in a few lines.

Her eyes retraced the words, falling on two that made her heart race; Ruling Cordonia.

Cordonia. She couldn’t get the word out of her head. She knew she heard or saw it somewhere before. Maybe at school. She laid the letter on the bed and picked up her phone quickly typing Cordonia into the search bar.

I know this place. She could feel it in her bones that she had a connection to this place she was apparently set to rule before today.

She clicked the top link and slowly scrolled down the page as she scanned the words. She let out a gasp and her heart clenched when she reached the picture of the last king.

Her lip trembled and tears welled in her eyes. She did know this country, she read about it when she was ten, she could remember the strange connection she had felt as she had read about the royal family before.

She had found it odd that she shed tears for a family she never knew. She scrolled down further stopping at a picture of the king and his queen on their wedding day, beneath was the only family portrait. The queen wore a peach and gold gown and she was visibly pregnant. King Liam and Queen Carolyn one week before the accident, heir unborn and unnamed.

Tears silently streaked down her cheeks. These were her parents. God, I look so much like both of them.

Something isn’t right. She survived, yet the page clearly stated that none of the royal family had survived. Why do they think I’m dead?

She glanced at her letter, the one her parents had given her. They had told her this would reveal her truth, they knew. She wanted to be furious that they had lied to her all her life, but there had to be a reason. Her mama always told her that the reason may not always be clear but it’s always there.

She picked up her letter standing, she needed answers and she wouldn’t get them from some website. She needed to speak to her parents.

- - -

“Mama, Papa, can we talk … ” Ruby held up the unfolded letter, “about this?”

Olivia nodded, shooing away Ruby’s younger brothers with a look. “Come sit, and tell us what questions you have.” She patted the seat next to her.

Ruby slowly walked towards the only mother she ever knew, a great ache in her chest. Her stomach twisted in knots, all she’d ever known was about to change, didn't it already? Since learning who her parents were she had felt like a hundred-pound weight had been placed upon her head.

Was she really ready to have the only life she ever knew crash down around her like a simple house of cards? Was she ready for her life to change completely?

She swallowed as she sat beside Olivia on the couch laying the letter on her lap. Her sapphire eyes glanced down at the letter, though she nearly had it memorized. “Umm … ” suddenly her mouth went dry. She looked up, her eyes locking on the familiar steely grey of her Papa. “Is — is this real?” She stumbled over the words, she began to question if she was fit for the title she was born to. I’m not cut out to be a princess, I can’t even speak to the parents who raised me. Wait, my parents died … am I already queen? “Am — am I really a — a princess?”

“Ruby’s a princess?!” Lovett gasped, his head peeking from behind the door.

Olivia’s eyes narrowed as she gave her youngest child a warning glare. “Lovett, you and Galen go and wait in your rooms, we will explain everything later.”

“Fine,” Lovett replied, shoulders slumping as he stomped off, he never got to have any fun.

Olivia turned back to her daughter, placing a gentle hand on her shoulder. “You are a queen.”

A million questions ran through her head in a millisecond. What really happened to her parents? Why wasn’t she raised in a palace? Why did everyone think she was dead? Only one question slipped past her lips. “How?”

Bastien and Olivia locked eyes, a silent conversation shared between them before Olivia told her how she’d been best friends with Ruby’s father, watched him fall in love with her mother and both of them fight any obstacle in their way, together. Ruby sat silent, occasionally nodding as she processed every word.

She listened as they recounted that a king and queen of a neighboring nation wanted to force her parents into marrying her off to one of their children before she was even born. How her parents refused, stating their child would marry for love, not alliance. They tried to come to some sort of agreement without a betrothal contract, but the king persisted. He was foolish with his own country’s funds and wanted Cordonia’s, no matter the cost.

Her breath caught in her throat as her Papa explained that he was her father’s head guard, that they had been on their way to the hospital when they were run off the road. Tears silently slipped down her cheeks as he told her that her father died trying to protect both her and her mother upon impact. He spared her the details but told her that her mother only lived long enough to tell him to name her baby Ruby and to protect her.

Fresh tears rolled down her cheeks as she truly felt the painful loss of her parents for the first time in all her life. She lost out on knowing her parents because a king couldn’t stand being told no. The part she read about him being a dictator finally made sense. He killed them, took them away from me.

She wiped her cheeks and took a deep breath. She needed to hear more, exactly what had happened to her family.

After she urged him to continue he told her how he had cut her from her mother. He told her how every thought had been: be alive. He told her the relief he felt as she took her first breath. She sniffled as she was told she was wrapped in her father’s jacket, which they later found her letter in.

She looked up, surprised to see the man who was always calm in any situation was silently crying himself as he spoke. “I’m sorry Papa, I didn’t mean to —”

“You deserve to know Ruby,” Olivia said. “Let me take over.” She took a deep breath. “Papa walked to where I lived, he was a guard, I was a duchess. Where I grew up, we had more snow than sun.”

“That’s why you always loved the snow.”

Olivia nodded with a soft smile that quickly drifted away. “There was a storm that night, and it was a wonder you and Papa didn’t freeze to death. Papa arrived covered in blood, clutching you to his chest in the middle of the night. He nearly scared my majordomo half to death.

When I saw Papa holding you to his chest I instantly knew. He asked me for help getting you out of the country, we both knew you would be safer elsewhere. I quickly decided it would be safer for you if I went with you both. We’ve used more aliases than I could possibly recount, we moved a lot when you were little. We always posed as husband and wife with a beautiful daughter.” She looked down at her hands. “At some point, I’m not sure when the lines blurred, we got closer, and by your fifth birthday I was pregnant with Galen.”

“So that’s why we always changed names when we moved.”

“Yes,” Olivia patted her hand, “to keep you safe, to keep us all safe.”

“What does it all mean?”

“Well, you are the rightful queen, there might be some pushback but with the head guard and a duchess backing your claim, it would be harder for them to contest.” Olivia pushed back a wave of golden hair. “Besides you look so much like both your mother and father, no one could deny that you are theirs, a Rys.”

“Oh.” Ruby looked down at her hands. When she woke in the morning she never expected her life to change so drastically.

“Of course, you don’t have to claim your title. Papa and I would completely understand if you wanted to continue being a Johnson.”

“No.” Ruby shook her head, the answer coming automatically surprising even herself. Once the word was out she knew she couldn’t answer any other way. “You said I’m a Rys, I’ve always been a Rys — no matter what name I used. Cordonia is my home and I have to take it back.”

Olivia smiled again at Ruby, proud at the Nevrakis strength she was exuding. “Let’s get ready to go home.”

Feedback fuels me, please like, comment reblog or send an ask. Feel free to scream, I promise I can take it.

Masterlist can be found in my bio.