#bpapfics

Summary: Amani is an orphaned heiress who’s spent most of her life raising her younger sister. T’Challa is a widowed King and Father. Neither of them is expecting much from their night at the Lotus. But the coming months have many milestones in store for these young adults. Will becoming a family be one of them?

A/N: This is long overdue. I’m applying to school to continue my education, so life is a little crazy. Hopefully after November everything will slow down and I can update more regularly. A new chapter of this story is half done, as well as a chapter of Redemption and Dress Up. They should be out in the next few weeks, probably after November 15. Keep me in your prayers, I’m slowly losing my mind y’all. 

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Amani rolled over yawning as the sun streamed through her window. She grabbed her phone off the nightstand and walked into the bathroom. She shot her sister a good morning text and hopped in the shower. After she brushed her teeth and washed her face, Amani threw on a sundress and some sandals. 

She grabbed an apple from the kitchen and skipped out to sit on the porch. Amani sighed watching the sun creep up over the buildings.The young woman bit into her apple and watched traffic build up in front of Atlantic station. She noticed a limousine cruise through the traffic light and grinned. She tossed the apple core,washed her hands, and grabbed her small purse off of the couch. After grabbing her camera off of the kitchen counter she hurried back to the porch.

The untimely death of her parents gave her and her sister a lifetime of financial security. Faced with this reality Amani decided to give YouTube a chance. She started a vlogging channel a few years back and had a significant following. She had quickly discovered her passion for content creating. Checks from YouTube and waitressing were her means of income for shopping and travel. She double checked all of her necessities once more as the limo pulled silently to the curb. Amani forced herself not to run down the porch stairs, stopping herself halfway when the front door of the car opened. A woman in all black stepped out, opened the backdoor, and out bounded a very energetic Ada. The young princess ran across the yard into Amani's arms. "Hello to you too," Amani laughed as she hugged the little girl back.

Amani looked up to find T'Challa grinning and stepping out of the car. "Hello" he greeted. 

"Hi," the young vlogger breathed, before coming back to her senses. Ada pulled her over to the car. "Let's go Amani," Ada bounced as the woman in black opened the door. Amani laughed and followed the princess into the car. T'Challa filed in next to her. The two smiled at each other before looking away.

"Where are we off to first?" Amani asked the little princess, as the car pulled onto the highway. "Baba reserved the aquarium since they have the most visitors," the little girl explained as she looked at the buildings. "Look Baba, That building looks like a pink piano!" Ada exclaimed as she jumped up excitedly.

"I see princess, but what did we talk about ?" He gently reminded her. The little girl's mouth formed an “o” as she settled in her seat. "Sorry Baba,"She said, still looking out of the window. T'Challa smiled,"no need to apologize."

“Tell me about Wakanda.” Amani propositioned the king beside her. The father watching as his daughter eagerly stared at all of the buildings. “What would you like to know?” he turned to face her. “What do you want me to know?”

“It is one of the most beautiful places I have ever seen. We have the best sunsets, and at night, you can see the stars like a blanket above you. There is so much to say that words can’t express it all,” T’Challa stared off outside the window.

The young vlogger grinned. "Well you'll have to show me around one day. A city tour for a city tour" she joked as they pulled up to the aquarium.

They stepped out of the limousine and the woman in black escorted them inside. The building was empty as the unofficial family wandered through together. “Baba! Baba! Look! Over here! Look!” Ada’s squeals tickled Amani. The young woman snickered as the four year-old dragged her father over to a tank. Amani wandered close by before settling on a bench. A smile spread on her face as T’Challa bent over the tank to pet stingrays with his daughter.

"You look beautiful by the way,"T'Challa said as he sat next to Amani on the bench a little while later. 

"Thank you," Amani blushed as T'Challa grabbed the camera."What’s this for? You haven't taken any pictures today." The handsome man looked at Amani expectantly.

“I'm a vlogger on YouTube. I make videos about my day to day life for a week, then I edit and post them." Amani explained. "Would you mind if I take some video?"

"Sure,” he stood up offering her a hand. "Everything will have to be approved by the public relations team in Wakanda before you could post it though." The couple stood up and followed Ada into the sea walk.

 Fish, sharks, and stingrays of all sizes swam the glass tunnel around them. The little girl ran from side to side pointing at fish as each new one swam by. Amani laughed and ran up to Ada, “Look princess,” Amani lifted her up so that she could reach for the ceiling. Her eyes growing huge as a whale swam directly by her hand. Amani placed  Ada back down as they moved further into the exhibit. The glass walkway opened into a large glass exhibit hall. Ada ran down to the front row. Her face pressed to the glass. She squealed excitedly as the animals swam by. Amani and T’Challa took a seat on one of the carpet terraces. 

“The video approval is fine. The approval by the relations team I mean,” The vlogger smiled, finishing the conversation from earlier. “I guess I should make sure I only get your good side huh?” 

“Every side is my good side,” the king teased.

"That’s the truth,” Amani muttered.

“Why thank you Ms. Okeke.” 

 Amani's face flushed red as she realized what she said. "You’re welcome," the young woman shrugged fumbling with her camera. She began recording the different fish and Ada, who was still running all around the aquarium exhibit. Amani and T’Challa followed along together in silence. The two stole glances at each other in between Amani recording, and T’Challa responding to his daughter. 

“How does she have so much energy in that tiny body,” Amani laughed. She waved back at the little princess as she watched the fish in the tank across from them.

“Her mother was the same way. Always lighting up the room when she walked in.”

“Will you tell me about her?” Amani turned off her camera. She studied T’Challa’s face as he watched Ada convince Ayo to watch the penguins with her. Her four year old body trying to drag the warrior with her. “We had known each other since high school. We dated in college, and then we married young. We were so happy, so in love. Then she became pregnant, and I was over the moon. We spent months taking birthing classes. I cleared my schedule to go shopping for the baby. As she got further along in the pregnancy I would stay up with her talking about baby names until we both fell asleep. She gave me my Ada, and I love her for it.” T’Challa sighed, twisting a ring around his left ring finger.

“She sounds wonderful,” the waitress smiled sadly. 

“Thank you, for doing this for Ada, I know she misses her mother when we go on these long trips.” T’Challa smiled, squeezing Amani’s hand. “Baba!” Ada ran up to the couple. “They have a penguin show! We have to go, they said I could meet the penguins” The little girl jumped up and down, pulling her father along behind her. 

Amani sighed, pulled out her camera, and trekked along behind the two into the auditorium. Guilt, jealousy, and hurt flooded her system and she watched father and daughter. She knew that she shouldn’t get attached. He just seemed too good to be true. He seemed to be a good father. He was royalty and he was charming. Him being single was just too much to ask of the universe. This day was for Ada and then they’d both go home to another woman. His wife, and Ada’s mother. Though, Amani knew she was already in too deep. She wouldn’t be able to stop her growing attachment now. 

The rest of the afternoon she kept her distance, stayed mostly with Ada and avoided T’Challa’s gaze. That afternoon Amani found herself and Ada leading the way to the ice cream shop. “Which flavor are you gonna get princess?” Amani twirled the little girl as they walked down the street. 

“I don’t know. I’ve only had chocolate. It was my mama and baba’s favorite. It’s the only thing he buys.” Ada hopped over a crack in the sidewalk. “Then we’ll have to get a bunch of samples.”

“Not too many,” T’Challa walked up to the duo. “Of course your majesty.” Amani replied, winking at the young princess when her father wasn’t looking. 

Ten samples and a double scoop deconstructed waffle sundae comprise later, T’Challa watched as his daughter and Amani split the warm fluffy waffle covered in ice cream, syrup, whipped cream, and toppings. People milled around the open air mall as the incognito king and princess enjoyed their Saturday. It wasn’t hard for him to notice the distance Amani had created after talking about Nakia. He mentally kicked himself for possibly ruining it. It wasn’t hard to see that Amani had effortlessly melted into his little family. She and Ada were a joy to watch together and her smile lit up the room. He knew he wanted to cultivate a relationship, even if only a friendship. 

“Who’s up for pizza?” T’Challa grinned. Amani and Ada frowned at him. “What? I’m still hungry.” T’ Challa insisted as he cleared their double scoop waffle sundae from the table.

 “How about we get some pizza to-go and we can walk over to my house. It’s just a few streets over. By then Ada and I will have worked off our sundae. Just in time for pizza.” Amani suggested. T’Challa shrugged.  

“Is that a yes?” Amani frowned. “Please Baba, please?” Ada pouted. 

“I never said it was a no.” the king smiled, helping Ada down from her stool. He and Amani reached for her purse at the same time. The waitress grabbed her purse and quickly avoided his hand. T’Challa sighed as she sent him a soft smile and grabbed Ada’s hand. After a slightly amusing debate between Amani and Ada about pizza toppings the small band, pizza in hand, started the walk to Amani’s house.  T’Challa watched as Amani tried to lift an extremely sleepy Ada. 

“Trade you,” the king chuckled, handing the woman the pizza. Amani  grabbed the warm cardboard box and watched as T’Challa pulled Ada into his arms. The princess snuggled into her father’s neck and drifted off to sleep. Awkward silence filled the space around them. 

T’Challa cleared his throat, “Today was fun.”

“It was, thank you for inviting me along,” Amani replied. The two walked up the stairs to Amani’s house. As she fished for her keys, T’Challa grabbed the pizza box with his free arm. “Thanks, the waitress sighed using both hands to unlock the door. “No problem,” the king followed her into the townhome. Amani grabbed the box and pointed T’Challa towards the spare room, “You can lay her in there. There should be a blanket at the bottom of the bed, it can get a little chilly in there.”

“Thank you.” 

Amani nodded as she washed her hands and grabbed three plates and some cups. With T’Challa’s retreating footsteps Amani took her first deep breath of the day. “Get it together sis,” Amani mumbled. “ What am I saying?” Amani grabbed a plate from the stack.

“Do you often talk to yourself?”

Amani cursed as she dropped the plate back on to the counter. The porcelain shattered into a million pieces. “I did not mean to scare you,” the king chuckled, walking over to help Amani gather the pieces.

“Haha.” Amani hurried to grab the pieces. “Be careful. I would not want you to cut your hand.” T’Challa reached out to pull Amani’s hand back. “I got it,” she jerked away, consequently slicing her hand. “Frick,” she muttered tears brewing in her eyes. She pulled her hand closer to her chest, trying to stop the incessant shaking. 

“May I see?”

Amani nodded, biting her lip to keep from crying. The king wet a paper towel and began to wrap her hand. “Are you okay,” he looked up from wrapping to search for her eyes. He felt her tense as his finger traced the planes of her hand. 

“I will be,” Amani pulled her hand away, purposefully avoiding T’Challa’s eyes. “Amani just let me help you,” the king insisted. “The pizza might be cold before I get back. Feel free to eat as much as you want. There is lemonade in the fridge.” She hurried away as T’Challa called out to her. 

Amani took the time to gather her thoughts as she wrapped her hand. She sighed once the cut was cleaned, medicated, and bandaged. With nothing left to escape reality she walked back into the living room. The king was still sitting at the counter. The pizza was untouched. He looked up at her approach. “I cleaned up the rest of the pieces for you. And I took the pizza out of the box and put it in the oven to stay warm.”

“You didn’t have to wait on me to eat. I would have been fine using the micro-”

“I wanted to wait on you Amani.” the king silenced her. Her mouth formed an ‘o’ as she settled across from him at the sink. 

“How is your hand?”

“It’s all good. I took some pain medication too.” she raised the now gauze wrapped hand into view. 

“Good. I’ll take out the pizza.”

“Cool… Umm. It’s getting kind of late, you and Ada are more than welcome to crash here. Spend the night that is. I can put her in my sister’s room and you can have the guest room.”

“We would not want to inconvenience you.” T’Challa raised the pizza from the oven. “It’s not an inconvenience. Think of it as a thank you,” the woman shrugged. 

“Well, then who am I to say no eh?” the king smiled, reaching over Amani to grab her a plate. She backed away from his arm. 

“Did I do something wrong Amani?”

“No,psht, why would you think that?”

“You are a horrible liar,” the king sighed, placing the plate in front of her. He quickly made his own plate and went back to his seat. The two ate in silence. “I wanted to explain about earlier.”

“There’s nothing to explain. I understand-“ 

“Please Amani let me finish!” The king roared. Amani jumped slightly in her seat. “I am sorry I did not mean to-“ T’Challa started to apologize. 

“I think that we should wake Ada up now-“ Amani started, trying to shuffle away from the counter. 

“Amani-“ the king reached out to grab her hand. Amani practically leaped away from his touch. She hurried down the hall into Ada’s room. T’Challa sighed, his face falling into his hands. 

Amani listened silently as Ada rambled on with her father. She moved her pizza crust around on her plate before getting up to throw it away. “Amani?” Ada’s tony voice pulled Anahi out of her head. 

“Yes princess?” 

“Why are you sad?” She tilted her head to the side. Amani’s lip trembled and spread into a small smile. “I just miss my little sister,” Amani bluffed. “It always helps me and my dad to talk about mama when we are sad.” 

“Ada-“ T’Challa warned. 

“She is fine,” Amani stopped him, “Maybe tomorrow princess,” Amani watched as the little girl hopped down and ran to hug her legs. “Thank you princess, I really needed that.”  Amani picked her up and held the child close before letting her go. She grabbed her hand and began to lead her to Amare’s bedroom. “I got it,” T’Challa stepped in grabbing his daughter's hand. 

“Oh okay. Bedroom is upstairs, the second door on the left. There’s a bathroom in there, and some towels in the closet. I’ll bring a t-shirt for her to sleep in.” 

T’Challa nodded and led his daughter up the stairs. 

Amani sighed and grabbed the pizza box to throw away. She flipped off all of the downstairs lights and pulled out a pair of her father’s old pajamas for T’Challa to wear. She chose a set of towels from the linen closet and placed them on the guest bed. She trudged upstairs into her bedroom and grabbed a t-shirt for Ada to wear after her bath. She tiptoed down the hall to drop Ada’s shirt off. She smiled to herself hearing the child and her father singing a song together she listened for a few more moments before slipping back out into her room. She took a quick shower and pulled on pajamas and a bonnet. She sat down at her computer to edit. 

A few minutes into editing footsteps echoed outside of her door before T’Challa knocked. “Come in,” Amani’s heart pounded when the king walked into her room. “I just wanted to thank you for everything. You’ve been more than amazing and Ada adores you. Which is rare cause she’s always weary around strangers. She associates strangers with her mother being gone.”

Amani beamed, then let it fall at his last sentence. She swallowed. “I live having her around too. She’s so sweet.”

“Just like someone else I know,” T’Challa smiled leaning against the door frame. “Yeah you told me your wife used to light up the room like that,”Anani forced a smile. “Yes. But I was talking about a certain YouTuber whom I’d like to take out sometime.” 

“What would your wife think?”

“I think after four years she would  want me to meet someone new.”

“She left you?” 

“Amani, Nakia is dead.”

Amani’s eyes widened. “I…” she gaped at T’Challa. “That’s what I was trying to explain earlier in the kitchen.”

“Why didn’t you say that earlier at the aquarium?” 

“It did not seem relevant to the question.” 

“I asked about your wife?”

“Yes you asked about Nakia. She is more than just a dead princess. She was a friend and a mother.”

“I understand. That doesn’t make it right though. You don’t think you should’ve clarified that before asking me out on a date?” 

“I know and I apologize for making you uncomfortable,” T’Challa moved out of the door frame and into Amani’s bedroom. “I noticed that you avoided me for the rest of our day out with Ada.”

“I didn’t feel right flirting with a married man in front of his daughter.” 

“So now that neither of us is married..” T’Challa moves to sit on the bed. Amani stood up. “I think that we should call it a night. There are towels, toiletries, and pajamas on your bed downstairs.” 

T’Challa sighed and walked back towards the door. “Goodnight Amani,” he bowed. 

“Goodnight,” Amani responded facing the wall by her desk. Only turning to look once she heard T’Challa’s footsteps leave the room. 

She fell on to the bed and sighed before sitting up, “Shit. He’s single.”

Summary: T’Challa has a secret but he’s tired of loving her in secret.

Warnings: None

A/N:  Only one more part to go. Let me know if you would like to be added to the tag list. I’m also working on a complete master list of all of my works so be on the lookout for that soon. Hope you enjoy this chapter!

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Looking out, across the morning

The city's heart begins to beat

Reaching out, I touch her shoulder

I'm dreaming of the street

-Michael Jackson “Human Nature”

T’Challa Udaku was madly and blissfully in love. He’d never felt anything like this and he knew that if Naomi were to leave him, he would never find anything like it again. Which is why he was staring at his reflection in a mirror, his fingers running over the fabric of his button-up. M’baku and the other groomsmen had left to check on the venue a few minutes ago. He knew they had gone because he probably looked like a nervous wreck pacing the floor of the hotel penthouse, but he didn’t care. He was grateful for the peace. He shouldn’t have been nervous. He and Naomi were already married. They had done the hard part. They’d already said their ‘I dos”. The church was just for show, but it seemed like his stomach had missed that piece of information. A block away from this room he knew that Naomi was in her room, probably pulling on her wedding dress as he spoke.

Of course, he hadn’t seen it yet. She had made sure to hide any and all information about her attire from her husband. She and Shuri went as far as to encrypt her purchase information in the palace’s internet server so that he couldn’t find out where she bought the dress from or who made it. T’Challa laughed at the memory. He’d spent hours trying to guess her password. He and Shuri knew that he could have hacked the information if he really tried, but he knew that the dress was something Naomi wanted to surprise him with so he left the information password protected. The king stared at the midday sun over the Mississippi River. He glanced at his watch and noticed that it was almost time to leave. He took another glance at himself in the mirror and smiled. Today was the day that Naomi would no longer be a secret, she would be made his wife in the eyes of the world.

“T’Challa, it is time my friend,” M’baku’s voice boomed through the door. With a final look in the mirror, he grabbed his suit jacket and headed out of the room.

A block away at the Roosevelt hotel, Naomi Udaku was losing her breakfast and it was not because she was nervous. Not that nerves weren’t contributing to this bout of sickness, they definitely were. Hunched over the toilet, she knew that one of the best decisions she had ever made was having her hair pulled back into a sleek bun for her wedding. She reminded herself to thank Beyonce for the suggestion. “That’s it, let it all out” Gabrielle rubbed her friends back as Naomi sat back away from the toilet. Tasha stood at the door with some ginger ale and nausea medicine. “I can’t believe I’m pregnant on my wedding day,” the blushing bride grumbled as her oldest friend handed her the medicine and soda.

“Well, technically you weren’t pregnant on your wedding day,” Tasha shrugged from the doorway. ”Shut up” Gabrielle and Naomi answered simultaneously. “Don’t shoot the messenger,” Tasha grinned while Naomi finally pulled herself off of the bathroom floor. “Hardy har har,” Naomi deadpanned, “Seriously though, I can’t even drink at my own toast.”

“First off, stop whining,” Gabrielle smiled, pulling her friend in for a hug, “We are in one of the most expensive hotels in New Orleans, about to live out your dream wedding. Thousands of people are lining the streets to catch a glimpse of you in your dress. You should be on top of the world right now baby girl.”

“Exactly you’re marrying the love of your life and he’s a king.” Tasha grinned at her friend. “You have pulled together one of the best weddings anyone could ask for! You look drop-dead gorgeous and you aren’t even in your wedding dress yet.”

“ So finish that bottle of ginger ale so we can get you dressed and ready to go.” Gabrielle reassured her friend. “And know that we bought you some of that sparkling cider you like. Red grape, white grape, and white grape with peach. That way it looks like you are enjoying all of the delicacies of a non-pregnant bride.” Tasha added, “We got you.”

Naomi smiled, her hormones swirling up and out as tears. “I love you guys,” she cried. “This is why we saved the mascara for last,” Tasha mumbled. Gabrielle elbowed her before hugging Naomi, “You know we love you too. Now let’s get you in this dress before we’re late.”

Naomi laughed and quickly finished the drink. She brushed her teeth and her friends double checked to make sure everything was put away. She and T’Challa would stay together in the Ritz-Carlton while the bridesmaids enjoyed another night in this penthouse at the Roosevelt.

While the bride waited for the medicine to kick in she smiled hearing the squeals and pitter-patter of little feet running around outside of the bedroom in the living room. She assumed that her niece and friend’s daughter were wreaking havoc on the rest of the bridal party awaiting her entry. A few minutes ago everyone had finished getting ready and was lounging around until it was time for Naomi to get dressed, until Naomi had run out of the room sick for the second time that morning. She knew that everyone in the room would eventually wonder why she was so sick today, but Naomi chose to focus on the little girls. The two flower girls Carter-Giselle and Rumi had bonded instantly when they meet yesterday morning at the airport. When Naomi had originally called and asked Beyonce’ and Rumi to be in the wedding, the singer had joked that Rumi and Carter would be the best of friends before the whole weekend was over, it seemed that she hadn’t lied. The two had become thick as thieves and she knew they would have a hard time being separated tomorrow afternoon. Watching the two had made her start to imagine what she and T’Challa’s child would look like. What would they like? Would they be as friendly and rambunctious at the two little girls rampaging through the living room?

The sound of Beyonce’ and her sister in law, Porche, calling both of their daughter’s names at the same time snapped Naomi out of her daydream. She drank down the rest of the ginger ale and went to grab her gown out of its bag. “You can’t get dressed without your bridesmaids,” Tasha teased as she and Gabrielle walked out of the bathroom with their makeup touched up. “I’ll get Bey and Porche.” Gabrielle peeked her head outside of the door and waved the other two women into the bedroom. “It feels so surreal,” Naomi smiled, her fingers running over the beading. “It’s definitely real,” Tasha squeezed her friend in a hug.”

“Not too tight, we don’t need a repeat of earlier,” Gabrielle teased as she walked in with Porche and Beyonce.”

“Definitely not, we’ve got a schedule to keep, chop chop!” Porche clapped at the bride. The small friend group chuckled. “So can you step into the dress or do we gotta go over your head?” Beyonce asked as she lifted the gown off of the bed. “We gotta go over my head, it laces up in the back. Naomi slipped off her robe while her friends lifted the gown up and over. “Dang girl, you couldn’t get a normal dress with a zipper?” Tasha grunted as the group maneuvered the dress over Naomi’s shoulders. “Corset backs are better for curvier bodies, they give more support,” was Naomi’s muffled reply as the tulle and flounce at the bottom of the dress enveloped her. “And they make your body look good from any angle,” Porche added in. Bey cosigned an “Amen” as the dress finally slipped into place over the bride’s head. The room went silent as Proche deftly laced the back of the gown and tightened it. Her best friends cheesed at Naomi as a tear slipped down her face when she turned to look at herself in the mirror. The bridesmaids wiped a few tears of their own before fawning over the gown. “Fawn Giselle Elizabeth Udaku you look stunning,” Gabrielle smiled pulling her friend in for a hug. “I remember the first day on campus, when I was moving in and we met at the sign-in table and found out we were roommates. Now look at where we are, my name’s gonna go down in history as one of the luckiest bridesmaids on the planet.”Gabrielle teared up as Naomi laughed a little and dabbed her tears away.

“Okay, no crying on the dress y’all” Tasha fanned her eyes to keep her tears at bay. Beyonce laughed and pulled Naomi in for a quick hug as well. Porche and Tasha followed suit. A knock on the door interrupted the hug-fest. “Everything alright? Y’all left these two old ladies and poor Shuri out here with these children, and we wanna see the bride.” Naomi’s mama called through the door. The woman erupted into laughter, “Coming mama,” Naomi yelled back dabbing at her eyes again. Gabrielle helped Tasha to clip the veil into place and after a few more tears, hugs, and dabbing of makeup the group entered back into the living room of the penthouse.

Ramonda and Naomi’s mother smiled at each other locking hands as they stared at the young queen in all her glory. Shuri’s grin stretched for a smile across her face, “He’s not gonna be able to keep his hands off of you in that dress.” The fitted silk gown hugged Naomi’s curves perfectly. The silk was covered in beading that created roses and swirls all down the gown until it flowed out in a soft wave along the bottom of the dress. A train spilled out for ten feet behind the bride as she walked into the living room. Carter-Giselle, Naomi’s four year old niece, and Rumi Carter gazed at her in awe. “You look really pretty auntie,” Carter-Giselle giggled running to hug her. Rumi followed suit hugging Naomi’s other leg. Watching the bride receive hugs from the flower girls had the entirety of the wedding party on the verge of tears. The bridal party packed everything up and headed down into the lobby of the hotel. Beyonce and Gabrielle helped to carry Naomi’s train and veil while the other three women watched and helped the flower girls down the hall.

Naomi could hear the roar of the crowd outside of the hotel before she even stepped out of the elevator. “Holy-” Tasha started as the mass of cheering people became visible outside of the Roosevelt’s glass doors. Naomi waved at the crowds as her friends, the videographer, and the photographer fussed with her wedding gown. After taking a few photos together in the lobby, the all-white vintage Rolls Royce limos arrived outside of the hotel. Tasha and Gabrielle made sure to gather Naomi’s train, with Shuri and Porche helped hold her train up as the party headed out of the doors. Smiles erupted on the entire party’s faces as they climbed into the large limo. No one was immune to the infectious energy that surrounded them in the crowds. After watching her mother and mother in law climb into the Rolls Royce in front of them with the flower girls Naomi’s nerves hit full force. Her smile grew by the second as the cars pulled away from the curb and headed up to the church. Progress was slow because the streets were choked with people hoping to catch a glance of the new royal. Naomi waved back through the untinted windows. This was more than she could have dreamed. Seven months ago she had married T’Challa at a last-minute courthouse wedding. Only the women present in the car with her even knew it had happened. She knew that one day she wanted a ceremony, but she could never have guessed that the ceremony would look like this.

“I can’t figure out who they’re cheering more for, Bey or you Naomi,” Tasha teased as everyone chuckled. “I’m pretty sure this crowd is for Naomi. No one knew I was gonna be here,” Beyonce laughed. “But how is the bride feeling?” the singer smiled as she reached for Naomi’s hand. “A little nauseous, overwhelmed, but excited too,” Naomi laughed back. “Just breathe, that’s what you told me remember?” The singer smiled. Naomi nodded thinking back to that day, “Just don’t breathe too hard or you’ll pass out,“ Naomi smiled back. The limo slowed to a stop and everyone sucked in their breath. “Welp, back out into the fray,” Tasha pretended to pull up her gown as the driver got out and headed around to open the doors of the limo.

The crowd’s roar crescendoed as each bridesmaid stepped out of the car. Porche first, followed by Shuri, Beyonce, Tasha, then Gabrielle. The women all waved to the crowds lining the street and the square. Naomi took a deep breath, then allowed Gabrielle to help her out of the car. The cheers grew to deafening. Naomi smiled and waved as her close friends helped to lay out her train and long veil. Once everything was in order, security opened the doors of the cathedral Naomi’s father walked out to stand next to his daughter. The bridesmaids were going to walk down the aisle unescorted, with Porche walking Carter Giselle, and Beyonce walking her daughter Rumi. With everyone stationed and in order, the organ began to play and the procession began. With each bridesmaid disappearing into the cathedral Naomi’s stomach began to twist. While awaiting their turn to tackle the aisle Naomi’s father squeezed her hand. “You look, beautiful baby girl, you’re gonna knock his socks off.” Naomi’s father kissed her cheek. “Thank you daddy,” Naomi kissed his cheek back and the doors opened for them to walk in.

Two hours later, with many giggles, tears, kisses, and laughter, Naomi Udaku walked out of St. Louis Cathedral a twice-married woman. Before exiting the cathedral Naomi and T’Challa stopped in the foyer grabbed their custom second line umbrellas from a footman at the door. The roar of the crowd sent energy through them. Naomi fingered the feather and beads lining her umbrella. As T’Challa smiled at her. “Did I tell you that you look breathtaking in that dress, T’Challa murmured kissing her forehead then her lips. “Only a million times your highness,” Naomi giggled. “And I’ll tell you a million more times,” he promised. “I have a surprise for you,” Naomi smiled up at him, his hand finding a way into her own. “Can I guess what it is?” The king asked. “No, you wouldn’t be able to anyway.”

“Can I know now?” The king whispered leaning in to kiss his wife. “No,” Naomi murmured back into the kiss. “How about now? T’Challa leaned in this kiss lingering for a little while longer. The looby of the cathedral filled with “Ooohs” and whistles as the bridal party and groomsmen filled in around them. Each of them now holding customized handkerchiefs embroidered with T’Challa and Naomi’s names and wedding date. “Aye, y’all save all that nasty stuff for later, we got kids in here now,” Kimbe, one of T’Challa’s friends from college teased, gesturing towards his son, the ring bearer, and the flower girls. Everyone broke out laughing as Naomi hid in T’Challa’s chest. T’Challa pulled his bride in for another kiss as some guests began to file into the lobby as well.

The sound of the brass band began to float into the cathedral and everyone started to get excited. T’Challa nodded and a footman opened up the doors to the street and the bride and groom stepped out to the roaring crowd once again. After sharing another quick kiss for more pictures, they raised their umbrellas and the party began. The crowd pushed up against the barriers as the bridal party danced past. Everywhere around them, people started dancing and waving handkerchiefs to join in the couple’s celebration. Naomi looked behind to find her bridesmaids and groomsmen laughing, singing, dancing, chanting, and smiling contagiously. Jay, Sir, and Blue Ivy had joined Beyonce and the Rumi. She carried Rumi on her hip as Bey and the toddler waved their handkerchiefs. Her niece was dancing with her father on his hip. Shuri looked up and waved as she danced along with Tasha, Porche, and Gabrielle. Queen Ramonda was dancing with Naomi’s parents, and the people of New Orleans joined in from behind the security and barriers. Naomi let out a loud laugh as she gripped t”Chala’s free hand in her own. “I love you, he smiled.

“I love and adore you,” Naomi grinned. The paused to share another kiss Confetti and rice began raining down from behind them. The couple stopped kissing and watched as their bridal party laughed and showered the newlyweds. “I couldn’t have imagined a better wedding,” T’Challa grinned. “Me neither. It’s beyond perfect, but wait until the after-party. If you liked this dress, you’ll love that one.” Naomi grinned as they continued to dance towards the Ritz-Carlton. “Can I have my surprise then?” T’Challa smiled. Naomi paused and smiled up at him, she glanced at the hotel about a block in front of them. She knew that once they entered the doors, they’d be pulled away for wedding pictures along the river bank and the city. They’d be in a limo with the rest of the wedding party, and then they’d be separated again to change for the reception. Now was the last time they’d be alone until later tonight. She smiled to herself and pulled the king in for a kiss. Cheers erupted from the crowd and the wedding party. She pulled back and whispered against his lips, “I’m pregnant.”

T’Challa’s mouth dropped open and Naomi let her head fall back in a loud laugh, her arms now wrapped around his neck. Before she knew it she was up in the air being spun around. No this wasn’t the wedding she had imagined. Her and T’Challa’s love playing out on a world stage was not something she could have guessed. But with her husband spinning her around, the crowd around them screaming and dancing, and her friends and family dancing through the streets with them, she could not have imagined anything better than this.

Summary: T’Challa Udaku has a secret, but he’s tired of loving her in secret.

Warnings: None

A/N: Sorry Y’all... I fell off the ball. I’m trying to get back into a routine before life gets crazy crazy again. Here’s the next part! I hope you enjoy, only two more to go.

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 

If they say why (why?), why (why?)

Tell them that it's human nature

-Michael Jackson “Human Nature”

Naomi Udaku was many things but petrified was not usually one of them. Yet, here she was, staring out the tinted windows of a Mercedes passenger van, on her way to the airport, to get on a private jet, to fly halfway across the world, to see the country that her husband was the king of, which made her the incumbent queen. Did she also mention that she was going to meet her husband’s family, who had no idea he was married. Talk about a great first impression.

Petrified probably wasn’t even the word to describe how she felt.

Naomi looked up to find her husband already staring at her. He had a goofy smile on his face and she wanted nothing more than to wipe it off. How dare he sit there, looking devilishly handsome and debonair even in his dressed down jeans and t-shirt. Why couldn’t he look like the hot mess she felt like. She turned back to face the window.

“You are fidgeting again,” his deep velvety voice ran down her spine. There was that accent she loved. She sighed, no wonder he hasn’t lost it, he’s always going back home. “I wouldn’t be if you had told me the truth. I wouldn’t have to wonder if your mother and sister will hate me because we got married and you didn’t tell them. It could be a normal meet the family where I only had to wonder if they wouldn’t like me for me.”

Naomi turned and watched the smile slide right off her husband’s face. Part of her felt guilty, but he deserved it. She still wanted to marry him, and she was boarding this jet less than 24 hours after she found out that he was the monarch of a country. She felt guilty, but she knew he should consider himself lucky she wasn’t more upset. The wedding planner felt his hand on her thigh. “They will not hate you,” the king reassured.

“How can you seem so sure? What if they had a bride picked out for you already? I’m ruining a plan I didn’t even know existed until a few hours ago.”

“This is why I needed to make things right as soon as I was crowned. Granted, I should have done it much earlier, but I knew that they would try to make me take a wife as soon as possible. I don’t want any other wife than the one I have right now.” Ever the charmer, her husband raised her hand to kiss the back of it. In spite of herself, she felt the blood rush to her face. T’Challa grinned knowing what was happening, even though he couldn’t see it. “Shut up,” Naomi grinned as the car came to a stop. The couple slid out and T’Challa grabbed the bags. Naomi grabbed her second smaller bag and they walked across the tarmac. As her husband kept walking Naomi had to stop to make sure she was seeing what she thought she was seeing. “T’Challa, baby,” the black woman called. The man walked back to her side,” Yes my love?”

“ I thought you said we were taking a jet?” Naomi turned to him. The king laughed, “It is a jet.”

“T’Challa, this is not a jet, it might as well be a spaceship,” Naomi gaped. “Come on,” T’Challa pulled her closer to the ship. A ramp emerged from the underside of the ship as it hummed to life. “I feel like there is something you are not telling me,” Naomi uttered as the couple made their way up the ramp. The metal echoed under Naomi’s feet as she subconsciously reached for T’Challa’s hand. The king grinned and placed the suitcases against the interior wall of the jet. Naomi smiled when she felt his hand grip her own. Her lover grabbed the small bag from her hand and placed it on the bench that wrapped around the ship. “You ready to go?” T’Challa smiled down at her. “As ready as I’ll ever be.” Naomi sighed back. The new king nodded and pulled her towards the front of the ship.

“Naomi, meet Nailah, a member of the Dora Milaje.” The woman in the, what Naomi guessed was a cockpit, crossed her arms over her chest. “Sister Naomi, it is nice to meet you.”

“It is nice to meet you as well,” Naomi waved. She felt stupid already. “They are expecting our arrival. We are ready to depart whenever you are kumkani wam.” Naomi watched as her husband crossed his arms and the woman nodded. With one hand around her waist, he escorted her back to the long bench. “No seat belts?” Naomi frowned as they took a seat. T’Challa only hummed as he lifted her legs to rest across his lap. “This is the safest jet in the world, I promise you don’t need one. I bet you did not even notice we were already in the air did you?”

Naomi’s eyes widened as she realized he was right, they were already cruising out of the country. She could make out the ocean a little ways ahead. “How is that possible? We just boarded a few minutes ago.”

The king winked, “Almost anything is possible in Wakanda.”

“Tell me about it,” Naomi sighed. “What is wrong my love?” T’Challa lifted her chin to look at him. “What happens to our lives now? You and I both have friends in the States. My family is there too. Everyone is expecting to be at our wedding in New Orleans next year. Does that all just vanish now?”

Naomi watched his face fall, then harden, “No, not if we don’t want it to. That life is just as much a part of us as this new one will be. I will find a way to make it work for both of us. I promise you that.”

“It will never be the same though T’Challa, and you know that.” Naomi looked up at him. She knew that fear was written all over her face. She knew that the fear would subside as soon as she fully understood what she was dealing with, but until then, T’Challa was going to have to be her anchor. From the looks on his face, he knew that as well as she did. She snuggled into his side as his hand took up its normal place rubbing circles on her back. She felt him kiss her head before she drifted off to sleep.

She awoke to T’Challa shaking her lightly. “Come on love, we are almost there. Naomi groaned and closed her eyes again. “Come on Naomi. You’ll be even madder at me if I let you get off the flight with a flat puff.” T’Challa tried to pull her up again. “Why don’t you fluff it for me?” Naomi mumbled. Subconsciously she knew this was a horrible idea but her body was aching so much that she couldn’t care less. That was until she felt a sharp tug on her puff.

“Okay take it easy hulk,” she grumbled, finally sitting up. “Good morning sunshine.” The king teased. “Yeah yeah,” Naomi accepted his quick kiss to her lips before raising her own hand to fluff her hair. She felt his eyes watching her every move as she pulled out her phone to make sure there was no slobber on her face. “What?” She grinned, “you like what you see?”

“I always like what I see,” T’Challa purred before pulling her into his lap. “Stop,” Naomi laughed, wrapping her arms around his neck. Her husband pecked her lips once more before sitting back against the wall, his hands never leaving her waist. “So do they even know I’m coming with you?” Naomi pondered as she felt the jet begin to descend. “No, I left without telling them either. I needed to make sure my wife knew what was going on first.” The king smiled. “I like the sound of that,” Naomi grinned

“The sound of what?”

“Me being your wife…” T’Challa laughed. “You’ve been my wife for three months. Naomi Udaku.”

“I know, but that’s the first time you’ve said it today,” Naomi grinned. T’Challa was like a drug, no matter how upset she was, he never failed to make her smile, and her anger had subsided slightly over the course of the day. She was still upset, but there were a lot of worse things he could have done or lied to her about. This was a potentially amazing life-altering experience and she knew that with his family about to find out the news, he needed support. She was his wife and they were a team. If he needed support she would provide.

“My king, we are here,” the woman called from the front of the plane. T’Challa stood up and excitedly pulled her over to a large viewing window. “You have no idea how many times I have wanted to see this with you,” T’Challa whispered as his hands snuck around her waist. Naomi leaned back into his embrace before noticing that the plane was getting dangerously close to a large grouping of trees. She started to pat her husband's arm, “Baby, I hate to state the obvious, but those trees are really, really close.” Naomi’s heart leaped into her throat. As the trees grew even closer her anxiety went through the roof. “T’Challa I know you’re always the calm one in this relationship, but our impending death is not the time to be stoic,” Naomi’s ranting was cut off as they broke through the emerging trees and the city came into view before them. Her mouth dropped open as T’Challa laughed behind her.

“We are private people. Do not want people wandering in when they shouldn’t be,” he explained into her ear. “You could’ve warned me,” Naomi pouted.

“And miss you clinging on to me and frantically squirming in my arms,” the king raised an eyebrow. “You are insufferable,” Naomi scoffed, fighting the grin on her face. Then a large building emerging from the city center caught her eye, “baby is that…”

“Our home? Yes,” the king smiled as he watched the awe emerge on her face. Naomi knew she looked like a child. Her eyes were probably comedically wide, but she couldn’t help it. She had inadvertently hit the marriage jackpot, and she honestly couldn’t be more terrified and excited at the same time.

The plane gently landed on a tarmac behind the large palace. She could spot lots of gardens and what seemed to be roaming wild animals. T’Challa pulled her out of her game of I spy by nudging her with her suitcase. “It looks even better if we get off the plane,” he teased.

Naomi’s heart started racing. His family was waiting out there, and she was terrified. It must have read all over her face because he squeezed her open hand. “I’ll be right there with you the whole way,” T’Challa promised and all she could do was nod.

Once T’Challa grabbed their bags the two made their way down to the tarmac. Naomi’s stomach turned slightly as she noticed all of the guards lining the walkway. A person came up and grabbed the bag from her hand. She thanked them and noticed them doing the same for T’Challa. She elbowed him lightly, “You only carry your own bags when you roll with me huh,” Naomi smiled. “Anything for you my love,” the king replied. He kissed her forehead before someone cleared their throat.

All of the guards crossed their arms in salute. The loudness of the synchronization startled Naomi and she was swooped back into reality. This was not her Mediterranean villa-style one-story house with her husband. They were not at their dining room table planning their New Orleans nuptials to pay homage to the city that brought them together. Tasha and Gabrielle were not going to come through the front door and complain about having to help and she would not be cooking a meal for her husband to eat once he came home from a long day at work. Mental note to ask him where he went every day. This was not her home, but it was his. Soon it would be theirs in more ways than one.

“You just bring a girl home, and do not even introduce us,” a teenage girl yelled at her brother. For the first time, Naomi noticed the two women standing at the end of the walkway the guard had formed. The woman who had cleared her throat moved closer.

“Kumkani wam, I had no idea your predicament was a person,” the woman whispered. Predicament? Naomi's heart broke a little. First, she was his secret and now she was his problem. She loved T’Challa but the mental list of questions and grievances had started, and Naomi knew it was only going to grow.

“She is not my predicament. I am the predicament in this equation Okoye,” T’Challa glared. Naomi watched as Okoye’s eyes glanced at her. T’Challa grabbed her hand and pulled her towards his family. The Okoye lady tapped her staff twice and the warriors dispersed. “Mother. Shuri,” T’Challa greeted. Naomi watched as he let go of her hand to pull them into a hug. Both women started laughing. Naomi’s heart soared then dropped. She somewhat understood the prince hood reason for lying, but she didn’t understand how she could lie about his family. From what she could see, they were close-knit. He and Shuri seemed especially close and just as she expected he treated his mother with absolute love and respect, the same way he’d treated her when they first met. She assumed that it had to kill him being away from his family for so long and it haunted her too knowing that his father had died. He hadn’t known about her, and T’Challa wasn’t able to be there with him. She couldn’t help but feeling like she had separated their family. She knew it was silly, but part of her feared T’Challa resenting her for being away from his father when he passed. True she hadn’t forced him away, but she still felt guilty. It must have shown on her face because the next thing she knew, the king was pulling her closer to their group.

“Mother. Shuri. I’d like for you to meet Naomi,” the king smiled down at his bride before looking up, “my wife.”

To say that the news went over well, was an overstatement. Naomi fidgeted in the overstuffed loveseat. The room was bright and airy, but the walls still felt like they were closing in. T’Challa took her hand in his and squeezed it slightly. She offered him a small smile before looking back at his mother. The queen sat up gracefully in her chair. She had taken off her crown from earlier and her white and gray locs tumbled down her shoulders. The older woman’s eyes had been trained on the cup in front of her for the last few minutes. Naomi's mind wandered back to the tarmac. The news definitely could have gone over worse. Neither of the women looked angry, more sad and upset than angry. She figured that her husband might be right. No one had really paid her much attention. Not even as his mother ordered them all to the living room to talk. His little sister had even offered her a slight hug as she navigated the palace halls. T’Challa had also kept his promise and had not left her side.

“Are you pregnant my dear?” The queen finally spoke, her eyes lifting from the glass. As soon as they had all taken their seats his mother had asked for water for everyone. They sat in silence as the water was delivered and as the matriarch stared into the liquid. Until now, all eyes were on her and her stomach felt like it was going to betray her trust. “No, I am not your majesty.” Naomi looked over at her mother in law, she could have sworn a smile danced at the edges of her lips. “I guess that is a name we now share,” Queen Ramonda commented.

“Yes ma’am your majesty,” Naomi smiled a little. “How long have you known my son?”

“Mother-“ T’Challa started. “No, I want to hear from your wife. She has a mouth. Let her speak. There will be plenty of time to hear from you.” Shuri snickered lightly before her mother and brother glared. “Eish it was funny,” the teenager mumbled.

“We had known each other for three years before he asked me to marry him last spring,” Naomi answered the Queen. “How was the wedding?”

Naomi looked at her husband. “We haven’t actually had it yet. We decided to get married at the courthouse a few months ago.” Ramonda looked up, “and whose idea was that?”

“Mine,” T’Challa interceded. “I see? And are you all still planning a wedding ceremony or….”

“Oh yes, ma’am. It is supposed to be in New Orleans late next year.”

“And you did not wonder about contacting his family? Or did he not tell you we existed,” the older woman cut her eyes at her son. “No! He has told me wonderful things about you both. All three of you really. I am sorry for your loss,” Naomi looked back at her hands. “I actually asked T’Challa about putting aside some money to fly you all out for the wedding. Especially if princess Shuri wanted to be a bridesmaid,” Naomi saw the teen perk up, “ I guess that it won’t be necessary now though,” Naomi trailed off.

“It is a lovely gesture.” Ramonda smiled before taking a sip of her water. “Well my dear, I only wish my son had told us about you as well.” Ramonda sighed. Naomi frowned up slightly, she really wished that she could read this woman. T’Challa’s mother seemed to genuinely be accepting, but sometimes it felt like everything she said was a backhanded statement.

“I wish he had told you more as well,” Naomi frowned up at her husband.

“I assume that you are here expecting to take over your queenly duties?” the mother finally set her cup down and stared at Naomi. “Well, your majesty, I am not really expecting anything. I was not actually aware that this was a role that I would have to take on when I married T’Challa. I am not fully aware of everything that will be required of me-” Naomi started.

“Surely you were aware that T’Challa was a prince when the two of you met?” Ramonda interrupted. “I was not.” Naomi was back to feeling stupid. The older woman took her eyes off of the event planner and the air seemed to be easier to breathe. “T'Challa, how exactly did you see this working out? She married you and did not have the chance to consider all that came with being your wife? How is that fair to her?”

“It was a selfish decision umama, one that I should have righted a long time ago, but I didn’t. I wanted her to love me for me, not because I was a prince.”

“Being a prince is part of who you are T’Challa, she cannot love all of you, without knowing every part of you that exists.” Ramonda rebutted. “You have deprived her of a chance to organically weave herself into this lifestyle. You are not a prince anymore T’Challa. Your wife is as much of a head of the state as you are. She is one of the figureheads of Wakanda. She is going to be under constant media scrutiny once this comes out.” Naomi gulped, she ultimately knew what was coming, but was not really prepared for the reality. Sure, some of her celebrity clients had gotten her articles and spreads in magazines, mostly bridal, but she was not a notable figure to the general public by any stretch. To say that was about to change, was a huge understatement. How much of an understatement it was is still a mystery.

“I know that I messed up, but I want to make this right. I am in love with her mother.” T’Challa squeezed her hand, staring into his mother’s eyes. She nodded,” I know you are son. I saw the two of you on the tarmac earlier, but love is not always enough. It does not always provide everything we will need. This is going to be a big challenge, early on in this marriage. Not to say that your love will not continue to grow through adversity, but it will be a challenge.”

Naomi cleared her throat, “If I get to stay with your son, then I will face any challenge.” Ramonda offered a small smile. She felt T’Challa’s grin burning a hole in the side of her face as well. She gripped his hand tighter. “Very well then, you two have my blessing,” Ramonda smiled.

“And you big head?” T’Challa teased his sister, “Do we have your blessing?”

“You want my blessing?” Shuri looked up surprised. Naomi answered first, “It would honestly mean the world. You are a big part of your brother’s life, and I never had a sister, and I would love it if we could have our own relationship as well… Only if you want to of course.” A huge smile broke out on Shuri’s face, “You had it as soon as Naomi said bridesmaid,” the teen teased. T’Challa stood and pulled his little sister into a hug. After a minute they separated and Shuri pulled Naomi into a hug. Once the three were done, Ramonda stood, wiping a tear from her eye. She placed a kiss on T’Challa’s forehead, then one on Naomi’s. “I look forward to adding a daughter to our family in New Orleans. But New Orleans only memorializes it. Welcome to the family sweet girl.”

Naomi Udaku was exhausted. Happy but exhausted. T’Challa’s mother and sister had been more than helpful in getting Naomi accustomed to the palace. The past few days between fittings, lunches, etiquette, and getting ready for Royal events, Naomi and T’Challa had barely had a moment alone together. She’d often see him in passing, placing a quick kiss on her forehead, cheek, or lips before having to head to another meeting. Queen Ramonda and Shuri had done an excellent job of making sure she didn’t feel alone, but she missed her best friends terribly. She’d text them that she was leaving on a trip with T’Challa but it’d been almost a week and she hadn’t told them anything. Naomi pushed open the large door to her and T’Challa’s room and sighed. She stared at the bed and the mountains that lay outside of the window behind it. She kicked off her shoes and fell face-first into the comforter. The wedding planner nuzzled her face into the pillow and let herself drift off to sleep.

Naomi groaned as she felt someone gently shaking her shoulder. “No more fittings please,” Naomi moaned into the pillow. She turned her head away from whoever was shaking her. A deep chuckle filled her ears as the person climbed onto the bed next to her. Naomi felt him climb up and straddle her body as it lay engulfed in the soft comforter. “You don’t want to see me, my love?” T’Challa teased. “I love you, but I want to sleep. Especially if you have another meeting in a few minutes.” Naomi grumbled, turning over to face him. “I do not have another meeting. Which is why I came to see you. I wanted to show you the gardens. If you’re up for a walk?”

“Fine,” Naomi sighed. “I’ll get out of my bed for you.”

“Thank you dearest,” T’Challa teased. He climbed off of her and grabbed her shoes from where they landed by the door. “Thank you,” Naomi yawned. She slid the sandals on her feet and her hand in his. The young couple strolled hand in hand through the palace before T’Challa led her out into a garden. They waved at some of the gardeners as they strolled past. “I am sorry that I haven’t been able to be around as much my love,” T’Challa frowned, wrapping his arm around Naomi’s waist. She snuggled into his side as they moved further away from the palace. “It is okay. I understand why. Your mother and sister have been a tremendous help. I feel like I’ve caught up in all my training.” Naomi smiled. “I knew you would catch on fast,” the king kissed her forehead.

“Since I’ve got the day off you wanna work on some more wedding planning?” The king offered. “Sure, later though. I want a moment to just be alone with the love of my life.” Naomi cheesed. “Of course,” T’Challa smiled, “but how would you feel about moving the wedding date up?”

“Like how far up,” Naomi stopped walking and looked up at her husband. “Fall of this year instead of next year?”

“That’s really far up baby,” Naomi frowned. “Then let me help. I’ve got today and tomorrow free to help plan. You’ve got mother and Shuri and I’m sure Gabrielle and Tasha would be willing to facetime or something to help get stuff set up. You can go home as often as you need to as well. Transportation is no issue, love.” T’Challa grabbed her hands. Naomi paused for a minute, “As long as you get everyone to agree to help, then I am all in,” she smiled. The king’s smile grew as he lifted her into the air. Naomi shrieked as he twirled around. He brought her back down laughing and grabbing her hand. The king started running, dragging the wedding planner behind him. “Come on, I’ve got a surprise for you.” Naomi laughed and ran after her husband.

The couple giggled and jogged through the palace halls amusing all the servants they came across. T’Challa ran around his sister with her head buried in a tablet in her hands. “Sorry, Shuri!” Naomi apologized as the teenager looked up frightened. The teenager waved her apology off as Naomi finally slowed down with T’Challa coming to a stop in front of the front doors. “You ready?” He asked, his teeth on display. Naomi smiled and nodded. T’Challa pushed the large doors open and There stood Gabrielle and Tasha getting off of a jet. The women broke out running towards their friend. Naomi wasted no time in joining them in a large group hug. She looked back at her husband with tears in her eyes. She mouthed a thank you as the girls enveloped her in another hug.

Summary: One person, a secret, and and ocean tore them apart. Six years later, they find their way back together. But a rekindled love is not Redemption.

A/N: So I never actually posted this?!?!? I don’t even know what happened with that. But sorry for my haitus. I should be back more often now. 12 coming soon! I missed Y’all!

Zari’s feet drug her up the street towards her solace. The sun sunk behind the horizon as she reached the brick staircase leading up to her house. She rummaged through her purse, her hand clutched around her keys. She flipped to the house key and inserted it into the lock. On, two, three clicks granted her entrance into the house. She pulled off her sneakers and threw her keys into the hall bowl. Padding softly into the living room her heart soared at the sight. Her parents sat sleeping on the main couch. Her father’s arm wrapped around his wife. Isha was wrapped in a blanket on the end of the sectional. Aiden lay softly snoring on his father, who was on his back asleep in the middle of the floor. Zari snapped a quick picture of the two sleeping together before heading up stairs. She slipped into a warm shower before changing clothes.Zari heads back down the stairs, only to find her mother starting dinner.

“How was work?” the older woman smiles, pouring the pasta into the salted water. “It was fine.” Zari answered, plugging her phone up on the counter. She grabbed the tomatoes and began pan roasting them. “So when are you going to tell me what really happened?” Zari’s mother raised an eyebrow, grabbing the chicken from the refrigerator. “What do you mean?”

“Zari. You loved your school, your family, your home, and you love T’Challa. I just don’t understand who could’ve had enough power to make you leave everything behind. Then you don’t call anyone for years? We thought you were dead.” her mother fussed, slicing the chicken into thin pieces. Zari was silent, adding the peppers to the pan with tomatoes. “That morning, after I went to brunch at the palace, I went to the palace infirmary. I confirmed that I was pregnant and I was headed to the pharmacy to pick up the vitamins, when the king cornered me in the hallway.”

“T’Chaka?” her mother frowned. “Yes. He had learned from the doctors that I was pregnant and offered to allow me to get an abortion. In exchange, I could never tell T’Challa that I was pregnant. I wanted to keep the baby. T’Challa and I had talked about being married one day, and we both wanted children. It came alot earlier than intended and in a much different order, but I knew this is what I wanted. I felt that he would want the same.” Zari explained. “You did the right thing. That man is just as crazy about that boy as if he’s been there from day one.” Mrs. Abu smiled.

“I know,” Zari smiled, staring at her new screen saver of the two. “T’Chaka did not feel the same though. When I informed him that his son had a right to know, he backed down and let me head on my way. That night, Isha and I were planning how to tell you and baba over dinner, when the dora knocked.” A shadow passed over her mother’s face as she recalled the night. “They took us to this tent in the middle of nowhere. They separated me and Isha and put me on a plane. When I woke up, I was in New york.” Zari frowned, reaching to turn the hot pan off. Her mother watched as she poured the vegetables into the pasta. The older woman pulled the chicken out of the oven and stood next to her daughter. Zari poured the sauce over the pasta mixture, flinching slightly as it began to sizzle before settling back down.

“I am sorry.” Mrs. Abu watched her daughter’s back stiffen. “I am so sorry,” tears flooded the older woman’s eyes as she embraced her daughter. A shudder went through Zari’s body as she broke down in tears. She wrapped her hands tightly around her mother, snuggling into her embrace as she cried for the first time in years. The two stood crying, holding each other tight for the first time in five years. The older woman was the first to pull back, running her thumbs over her daughter’s tears. “I am so proud of you. The woman, the mother that you have become.” the older woman cried, wiping her own tears in between wiping her daughters. “I missed you everyday,” Zari admitted. “I wanted to call but they took my beads. I didn’t get them back until two days ago, T’Challa. I don’t know how he got some, but he did and I was going to call-”

“I know. That is how we found you. When he registered the beads with you again we were all notified that you were back on line. Isha had a friend sneak us out of the country to come visit you.” Mrs. Abu explained. “What did I tell you the first time we got seperated in the market?”

“We will always find our way back together.”

“Nothing can keep us apart,”the mother reassured. Zari smiled, pulling her mother back in for another hug. The sound of the pasta sizzling again pulled the women apart. Zari turned off the stove top before wiping her own eyes once more. “They tried to wait up for you,” Mrs Abu pointed to Aiden and T’Challa. He tried to convince Aiden to take a nap until you got back. Baby boy wouldn’t agree until he offered to let him sleep downstairs so he could see you when you came home.” Zari grinned at her mother. “He adores you. They both do.” her mother clarified.

“Mama?” Aiden’s sleepy voice greeted Zari as the child in question walked around the corner. “Hey baby boy.” Zari smiled pulling him up into a hug. “You hungry love?” Zari asked. The kindergartner nodded. His mom helped him up onto a bar stool. Zari made a small salad with strawberries before placing some of the pasta and half a chicken breast on his plate. The child mumbled a sleepy thank you before digging in. “He’s definitely your son.” Zari glanced at her mother. “Why do you say that?” Strawberries on salad were the only way you would eat salad too. Zari smiled. The sound of someone walking interrupted her rebuttal. T’Challa rounded the corner, blinking once his eyes focused on Zari in the kitchen. “Good morning your majesty,” Zari smirked.

“Your back.” The king paused, “How long ago did you get back?” Zari set his plate on the counter next to Aiden. “About two hours ago,” she took a wet rag cleaning off the counter around the sink in front of them. “Why didn’t you wake me up?”

“You all looked so peaceful,”Zari chuckled, displaying her new home screen. The king smiled before beginning to eat. “I think I am going to go get a quick shower before I eat,” Zari’s mother excused herself and headed up the stairs. Zari made herself a plate before joining the two on the island. “How was work?”

“Boring.” Zari sighed. “I’d rather hear about what you two did today.” Zari grinned at Aiden.“Baba took me to that really tall building downtown. I met all these nice people. Oh, and I met Mr. Stark! He was so smart!” Aiden rambled on. At the mention of Tony Stark’s name Zari glanced at T’Challa in shock.”

Where’s my grandson?” Zari’s father’s voice rang out from the living room. Aiden glanced at his mother for permission before running to his grandpa. “You took him to meet Tony Stark?”

“It was business,” T’Challa explained. “Aiden seems to have enjoyed himself,” Zari chuckled grabbing her plate and Aiden’s to wash. “Do not remind me. I hoped he would have forgotten by now.” T’Challa sighed, watching her wash the first plate. “I must say, I am quite jealous,” Zari rinsed the plate. “Why would that be?” the king questioned, finishing the last of his food. “I was not able to meet the amazing Mr. Stark. I mean he’s so strong and rich. I can’t help but hear that he is handsome as well.” Zari teased. T’Challa joined her at the sink, wrapping his arms around her to wash his plate while she rinsed hers. “Why should you want to meet him, when you have someone so much better in your life?”

“Who would that be?” she feigned ignorance.”Do not be cruel entle,” the king frowned. “I’m sorry love,” Zari smiled, “Besides, you are much better looking than Tony Stark.” Zari amended. “I know,” the king smirked moving from behind Zari. He wiped his hands before passing the dry towel back to her. “So what happens when you go back to Wakanda?”

“Well, I hope to begin screening candidates for the first Wakandan citizenship tests. Right now it is only open to applicants of African Descent.”The king explained. “That’s exciting.”Zari smiled. “As well as stressful. If I do not get this right, and these people do not acclimate to the country, the elders will never let this happen again.” T’Challa frowned. “It is a good thing. Just trust your intuition.” Zari reassured. “What will you do?”

“Well, the show opens in a month. Then I work on the show, until I decide I am ready to leave. Or it is ended. Then, I play the waiting game for a new job. Maybe work on my clothing line.”

“Maybe you and Aiden can come to Wakanda. Visit for a month or two over the summer?” T’Challa asks. “I don’t know T’Challa.”

“He deserves to get to see his home. His family? My mother and Shuri are going to love him. I would like to tell them before it gets out to the media. I want to claim his as my own. Zari, he is the next in line for the throne. He has to come back at some point.”

“The throne?”

“Yes, he is my son Zari.” T’Challa rebutted. “I know, but he’s only five.” Zari insisted. “I am not saying he will take the throne tomorrow. But he will need to get a wakandan education. Soon.” the king emphasized. “I know, I know,”Zari sighed. “Just, let me think about it ok?”

The king nodded, “Of course.”

“Speaking of, how is Shuri?” Zari asked. “She’s great. She’s grown up so much. Smart, smarter than me at that age.”The king admitted, “but, she doesn’t need to know I ever admitted that.”

“Of course,” Zari smiled. “She runs the department of technological advancement now.”

“Alone?” Zari gasped. “For the whole country? How old is she now? Sixteen?”

“Yes. Only sixteen.” The king smiled. “We thought we were doing something special at sixteen. All we did was run for student government.” Zari laughed. “And we won,” the king added. “That we did. Back when things were simpler.”Zari sighed. “Did you ever think we’d be here?” She gestured to the house around us.

“Yes, albeit in Wakanda. With baba still alive, and us just engaged.” The king replied. “And Aiden?”

“Maybe in another seven years from now.” the king added. Zari smiled. “Me too.”

“May I take you out tomorrow?” T’Challa asked. “Thought we were going out friday?” Zari frowned. “I changed my mind, I can not wait any longer.” The king insisted. “Then I guess we’re going out tomorrow night,” Zari smiled.

“Sounds like a plan to me.”

Summary: She’s not his Fiancée, but no one needs to know.

Warnings: none

A/N: Like ,Comment, and Reblog

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“What? I am already-” T’Challa frowned.

“It appears that Kamyra has run away. She met Sirobie in the park. She switched kimoyo beads with her and fled.” Ramonda explained a hand sinking down to squeeze Sirobie’s. “Sirobie has agreed to be kamyra’s stand in until she is located.”

“And I am just supposed to be ok with this?” T’Challa argued.

“Well that is the idea your majesty,” Shuri rolled her eyes. “It is not like you can tell them apart.”

“There is a search party looking fo Kamyra?” the king glanced at his mother wearily. “Yes, I am sure we will have some news on her whereabouts soon. She could not have gotten very far.”

“Very well then, is she ready to go?”the king eyed Sirobie once more. “I am not a robot,” Sirobie interjected. “Hmm, I’ll keep that in mind.” T’Challa turned on his heel and strolled out of his room.

“Arse,” Shuri murmured. “Shuri,” Queen mother glared at her youngest. “Sorry mama,” the teen groaned. Sirobie held in a chuckle as the trio walked out of the room.

“He will come around,” Ramonda spoke up. The hall was relatively silent as they passed. The only sound was the swishing of their dresses as they moved through the hall. “Now, T’Challa will walk in without you first.Then we three will enter. You will enter last as the future Queen of Wakanda.”

“I think I can handle that,” Sirobie nodded. “Good. then you and T’Challa will share a dance together,” the Queen continued. Sirobie froze mid step, “Dance?”

“Yes,” the queen replied, turning to face the girl. “Your majesty, I do not know how to dance.”

“Nonsense, everyone knows how to dance,” the Queen smiled. “I mean twerk, yeah. Grind, swag surf, dougie, wine, two step, biker shuffle, cupid shuffle, bunny hop, stick it and roll it, wobble. These are all things I know. But, I am assuming that this party will be alot more formal than that,” Sirobie rambled. “Just follow T’Challa’s lead,” the Queen soothed, gently snaking her arm through the girl’s. “Everything will be fine I promise.” The queen takes the girls hand in her own and squeezes them lightly. She and Shuri file into a single line in front of Sirobie.

The Howard student took a moment to observe the room around her. A large set of silver doors stood in front of her. The intricate carvings drew her attention, until someone calling startled her. “Kamyra,” Queen Ramonda waved a hand, motioning for her to join them on the grand staircase. Sirobie blushed as she took slow measured steps out to join the other women on the balcony. The Queen smiled before turning to face the crowd below her.

“Look above them Ro.” the student murmured to herself, trying to recall all of Queen mother’s teachings.

“Grandeur is a show. A performance. They are all here for a good show. Nothing more, nothing less.” The Queen lectured. ‘They could care less whether or not you or T’Challa are happy. They only care about how you make them feel.”

A hand on the small of her back startled her out of her daydream. She forced a dazzling smile as the Queen guided her down the stairs. She made sure to place her foot fully upon each stair before stepping on to it. The safety measure creating a dramatic display as the three processed down the staircase in seemingly slow motion.

Sirobie accepted T’Challa’s extended hand as he helped her off the last stair. “Smile,” the king murmured as he pulled her out to the middle of the dance floor. “I was not aware that I had stopped,” Sirobie rebutted through gritted teeth. Camera bulbs went off around them as the King gestured to the band. “Ah, so she does speak.” The music started softly in the background. All eyes were on the couple as the king began to effortlessly spin Sirobie around the room. “When I need to. I saw no reason to speak earlier.” She replied, taking a deep breath as T’Challa spun her out under his arm.

“You saw no reason to speak earlier?” the king raised an eyebrow. “No, what was being discussed was none of my business. It was not my place to reveal who I was,” Sirobie shrugged. Couples began to fill into the dance floor around them. “Why not?”

“I was given a job, which was to pretend to be,” Sirobie started. “I agree daisies would look wonderful as a centerpiece,” T’Challa loudly interrupted Sirobie. “Why did you,” she tried again. “My love, we can talk about wedding plans later. Let’s get dinner,” The king gestured to the band to cut the music. He bowed before Sirobie. The student started to curtsy before remembering Queen mother’s comment. She quickly opted for a gentle dip of her head. T’Challa offered her his arm once more as they walked off of the dance floor. “Everyone around us is listening. Hoping for any chance to hear apart of the king and future queens conversation. We cannot speak freely here. We will speak later.”

T’Challa lead Sirobie to the head of the table. He pulled out her chair before settling in his own. She sat as his right and wrung her hands nervously. She was relieved to see Shuri next to her and Queen mother across the table from her. Various elders and government officials found their various seats around the large table. Once everyone was seated the Chefs began to serve, they placed a large leafy green salad in front of each person. Various fruits adorned the salad along with grilled chicken. A cup of dressing was nestled on the side of the plate to be used at the individual’s leisure. Sirobie watched the royal family, noting that no one around her reached for their food.

T’Challa stood and lightly tapped the side of his glass with a spoon. “I would like to thank you all for being here tonight, to celebrate the engagement of myself and Lady Kamyra,” The king smiled in Sirobie’s direction. The student ducked her head under all the attention. Many of the elder’s chuckled, mistaking her nerves for bashfulness. “and our happy life together.” Many of the elder’s cheered, taking a sip from their glasses. “Wakanda forever!” someone shouted, everyone saluted in unison, leaving Sirobie fumbling to catch up. Shuri stifled a laugh as the student accidently knocked over her water glass.”I’m so sorry,” she fumbled, using her table napkin to dab the spot. Queen Ramonda pinched her daughter hard under the arm, helping Sirobie to dab at the spot as servers came to her aid. Murmurs and laughter erupted around the table. Heat rose to sirobie’s cheeks as she dabbed the spot harder, tears pricking the corner of her eyes.

The servers finished drying the spot before handing the student a new napkin. She thanked them quietly as T’Challa called the room back to attention. She stared at her plate for the rest of T’Challa’s speech, only looking up to thank the server for her salad. She waited till she saw T’Challa reach for his fork before looking for hers. The three forks, three spoons, and two knives stared back at her from around her plate. “Third from the right, right?” Sirobie mumbled as her hand wavered between the available forks. T’Challa’s finger gently wrapped around her pinky. Many of the elder’s smiled at the display of affection. T’Challa gently guided her hand over to the right fork, before removing his finger.

The college student smiled her gratitude before beginning to eat her salad. The dinner went smoothly from then on. After her faux pas Sirobie decided to stay under the radar. She smiled and laughed along as best as she could until she felt T’Challa squeeze her hand, “Kamyra has decided to speak only in English to help prepare her for foreign affairs,” the king smiled. “I apologize, I’ve just been a little hazy minded all day,” Sirobie smiled. “I was just asking how you are feeling. I noticed you have been quieter than usual tonight,” The elder smiled. “I am well thank you. I really appreciate your concern and thoughtfulness,” Sirobie smiled. Murmurs erupted around the room as Sirobie finished the rest of her salad. “Should we all head back out to the ballroom?” T’challa wiped his mouth before standing. The guests all did the same. “My love?” T’challa called, extending a hand to the student. “Oh I apologize,” Sirobie hurriedly pushed her plate away before standing up.

T’Challa led her out first, laughs filtering out of the room behind them. The rest of the night was not much better. Sirobie followed the king around the room. Nodding her head and laughing with everyone as people around her conversed in a language she did not understand. That was the exact moment when the reality of her situation caught up with her. For the next two months this is her life. A fianceé who is constantly embarrassed by her, and people who she could not understand.

Sirobie gently places a hand on the king’s arm and squeezes it lightly. T’Challa pauses his conversation to look at her, “I think I am going to step out to get some fresh air.”

“Do you need me to accompany you?” The king raised an eyebrow. “No, I was just letting you know,” the student resisted the urge to glare. “Excuse me,” she smiled at the elders before walking off. She felt her train gliding behind her as she made her way to the nearest balcony, She paused to grab a glass of champagne when a hand came to rest on her arm. “My lady are you alright?”

Sirobie turned to find a group of women surrounding her. “I am fine I was just heading out to grab some air,” the student answered, moving again for the door. “Are you sure, I have never seen you without the king.” Another lady insisted the women moving in around Sirobie. Her heart began to race, she tried to wipe her hands on her dress, the sweat building up between her palm and the glass. “I am quite certain, I can handle myself,” she laughed awkwardly, again moving for the balcony door. “My lady are you quite certain, you seem to be getting dizzy,” one of the elder women moved in reaching out to test Sirobie’s temperature on her forehead. “I am fine, please, I just want to reach the balcony.” Sirobie insisted again.

“My, dear, you look like you need to sit down,” and elderly lady tried to pull her back to a seat. “Please. Just let me get to the balcony, please,” Sirobie pleaded, pulling her arm from the woman’s grasp. “Oh sweetie, please, let us help. Mrs. Uma will get his majesty.”

“I think I am going to retire for bed if you don’t mind,” Sirobie excused herself rushing toward the stairs. The clumsiness that had evaded her all night finally caught up as she felt herself trip up the stairs. She heard a rip as she caught herself on the lip of the stairs, tears welling in her eyes as she gathered her skirts once more. “Kamyra!” Shuri called, “Sirobie resisted the urge to look back as she began fleeing up the stairs once more. The laughter and gossip followed her up the large staircase. “Did you see how much she was eating at dinner?”

“The clumsiness?” “I bet she’s pregnant” “If she was, that baby was definitely lost with that fall.” The voices haunted her as she continued up to the large doorway. Eyes trained on the floor, Sirobie rushed into Queen mother. “My dear,” the Queen smiled, before noticing her tears, “What is wrong.”

“I can’t do this. I am sorry,” Sirobie shook her head vigorously before rushing off to the room. Queen Ramonda frowned and gestured to a guard stationed by the door. “Please, see that she makes it to her appointed room safely,” the soldier nodded before following the weeping student.

Ramonda glided back into the party and immediately approached her son surrounded by elders. The tribal leaders bowed in turn to their Queen, “May I speak to my son alone,” the queen requested. The leaders peeled off one by one.

The queen wrapped her arm through her son’s and pulled him out onto the balcony, the two guards shut the door behind them. “Where is your fiancée ?” the Queen asked, releasing her son and continuing on to the balcony. “She went to get some air…” T’Challa started.

“You didn’t think to check up on her?” The Queen demanded. “She is an adult mama, she can handle herself.”

“Yes, but in this environment T’Challa, she might as well be a kindergartner! She speaks none of our language, she’s never been to an event like this. Let alone be the honoree of the night! She just ran out of this party crying!”

“She what!” the king fumed. “Do not blame this on her! She was overwhelmed son. I wasn’t even in this party and I can tell you what happened. Her dress was ripped as she ran out of the room. There was a group of women around her gossiping about her being pregnant. From how it seems, she didn’t even make it all the way to the balcony.”

“Do you not realize what an embarrassment this has been for me! My fiancée ran out of her party.”

“This would not have ended this way if you had been doing what you should be doing as a good fiance!” The Queen rebutted. “She is not my fiancée mama!”

“Watch your tone of voice with me T’Challa!” The queen looked towards the guards briefly, “Until we locate Kamyra, Sirobie is your fiancée . It is in all of our best interests for you to remember that T’Challa.”

The night was silent as the queen glared at her son, the king looked everywhere but at his mother, knowing what disappointment would be written all over her face. “Ever since Kamyra has come into this house, you have changed. It is almost as if I do not know who you are any more. I do not know what on Earth makes you believe that you must marry Kamyra,” the queen began. “Mama I..”

“Do not interrupt me T’challa. I am done trying to understand why. All I know, is that I wish my son would come back to us.”

Sirobie blindly rushed through the halls, muttering apologies as she ran past servants. Tears clouded her vision as she barralled down the corridor. Her breathing finally evening out as she glanced up, more tears choked her throat when she realized she had no idea where she was going.

“Miss?” a hand gently grabbed her arm, “The Queen asked that I make sure you made it to your room safely.” Sirobie turned to find a different guard than the one from earlier smiling at her. “Oh,” she sniffed, wiping from under her eyes, “thank you,” she allowed the woman to assist her to her room.

“You aren’t from Wakanda are you?” the woman asked. “I.. is it that obvious?”

“Painfully I am afraid.” the woman laughed.

“I also know that you are not lady Kamyra.”

“I guess I am not really fooling anybody am I,” Siorbie sighed. “You are fooling those that matter. Those of us who live with her know the difference,” The woman smiled. “I don’t know whether that is a compliment or and insult.”

“It depends on how you are looking at it. You have a certain type of grace. Ms. Kamyra’s is more stiff and forced with hers. You and she share the same physical beauty, but you are two different people. Which is a good thing.” The woman paused in front of Sirobie’s door.

“Thank you again..” The student trailed. “Imani-nia,” the guard bowed. “It was my pleasure, my lady. Goodnight. May Bast watch over you.” The warrior shut the door and took her place in the hall.

Sirobie sighed and headed into the bathroom to take a much needed shower. She kicked off her heels and sighed, allowing the cool stone floors to calm her aching feet. She walked to what she assumed was the closet door and pushed the door open. The light metal door seemed to move on its own as she walked into the room. She fought to keep her jaw from hitting the floor as she turned in awe. Clothes line the room. A wall of shoes with a small keypad caught her attention as well as a larger keypad beside the door. She noticed a note on the chaise in the middle of the closet.

The stylists have filled the closet with all items of clothing in your size. Including new more personal items of clothing. Pajamas, lingerie, and loungewear are all folded in the large dresser directly in front of you. Please, do not hesitate to notify myself, shuri, or any of the staff of whatever you need. Shuri will be by in the morning to show you how to work the closet itself.

Ramonda

Sirobie smiled at the elegant handwriting before walking over to the dresser. The college student laid the note on the top of the dresser before pulling open each drawer. She observed five dressers in all, each containing a specific type of clothing. She grabbed a silk tank top and short set from the drawer. Grabbing some underwear she headed into the bathroom and took a quick shower.

There at the sink she found another note from Queen Mother.

Shuri and I thought you might need these.

Sirobie smiled at the simple black box on her counter. She opened the lid to find a bonnet, scarf, oils, bobby pins, lotions, perfumes, and more selections of hair products. She marveled at the amount of items, before finding another note at the bottom.

We hope these work. We can go shopping for whatever else you may need.

Shuri & Ramonda

Tears creeped into Sirobie’s eyes as she glanced at the large box once more. She quickly refreshed her puff before laying her edges and tying them off. She covered her hair in the bonnet before heading off to the bed. She used the room controls to turn off the lights before climbing into the sheets. Maybe this wouldn’t be as bad as it seemed.

Summary: She’s not his fiancee, but no one else needs to know. 

Warnings: None

Author’s Note: It’s been such a long time! I’ve missed you guys so much. I’ve been super busy, but school is almost finished. I’m a few days out from finals, so I should be posting more often after finals. I hope you guys enjoy. Much love.

Chapter 3

“My lady?” Sirobie woke to find a young woman, head bowed standing at the foot of her bed. “Good morning,” Sirobie yawned looking at the woman. The woman curtsied slightly before looking up. “Good morning Lady Sirobie, her majesty requested that I wake and escort you to breakfast.”

“You know that I..”

“Yes ma’am, all of your waitstaff knows. Do not worry, we all have ‘sealed our lips’ as the americans say. I’ve already laid out some outfits from you to choose from in the bathroom. I will walk you to the Dining Hall whenever you are ready.”

“Thank you,” Sirobie smiled as she peeled out of bed. “Would you like some assistance with your hair?” the maid called. “No thank you...” Sirobie trailed. 

“Eshe, my lady.”

“Please, Sirobie is just fine. I will be out in a moment.” The maid nodded before walking into the sitting room adjacent to Sirobie’s chambers. Sirobie choose the matching red and yellow skirt and bandeau top set from the outfits. Quickly brushing her teeth and washing her face, she changed into the outfit and accompanying jewelry laid out for her by Eshe. She undid her scarf from the night before and separated the curls. After a quick once over and fluff of her hair, Eshe escorted her to the dining room. The young woman knocked twice before pushing open the grand door. Sirobie nervously ran a hand over her edges before walking in.

The morning sun bathed  over the furniture of the room. Sirobie smiled as she noticed Queen Ramonda and Shuri already seated. The head of the table sat empty, she inwardly breathed a sigh of relief, doubting whether or not she could face the king yet. Shuri beamed once she noticed her entrance, the teenager waved her over causing Queen Ramonda’s eyes to fall on her as well. Sirobie took a seat in between T’Challa seat and Shuri.

“Good morning. I am sorry to keep you all waiting.”

“No problem my dear, you are just on time,” Ramonda smiled. “Unlike someone else we know,” Shuri muttered. “Is the king usually late?” Sirobie asked, secretly worried that his absence may have something to do with her arrival. “Always,” shuri answered as queen Ramonda opened her mouth. The mother glared at her. “Unfortunately, but now that you have arrived we should start eating.” The queen nodded to the waitstaff and they began to place food in front of the women. The first few minutes of breakfast were silent, except for the sound of silverware on porcelain.

The Queen wiped her mouth before addressing Sirobie. “What brings you to Wakanda my dear? I understand you are in school?”

“Yes ma’am. I am a History major, though I am considering a masters degree in screenwriting and directing after I finish.” Sirobie explained. “Do you plan on setting up your own production company?” The queen inquired. “I do, I have some friends on the business and marketing sides of things. As well as some other amazingly talented creatives on board with the idea.”

“You plan to work in LA?” Shuri’s eyes lit up. “Maybe, maybe New York. Atlanta is a hot spot for movie production right now as well.”

“You have to take me to all of the award shows when you win,” Shuri smiled. “Of course, If I win.”

“When,” Shuri corrected before taking another bite of her food. “What of your family?”

“There really isn’t much to say,” Sirobie frowned. “We aren’t very rich, I am at school on scholarship and I rarely see them because I can’t afford to go home often. Or I am away like I am now.”

“Have you spoken to them since you have been here?” the Queen asked. “I write letters weekly, but international calling is expensive.”

“Mmm,” Ramonda hummed. “Well my dear, we have a busy day ahead. Today we start training, and you will take over some of Kamyra’s responsibilities. Simple paperwork, speaking requests, and attending council meetings. And we must find you a talent. We have yet to announce Kamyra’s talent  formerly, so we will not be messing anything up. She will just be multi talented.” The Queen spoke more to herself than Sirobie in the following moments. The doors to the dining room interrupted the queen as T’Challa strode into the room.

“Look who finally decided to wake up,” Shuri teased.”Good morning to you as well sister.” T’Challa kissed his mother’s forehead before nodding in sirobie’s direction.

“Since everyone is here,” Sirobie began, wiping her mouth with her napkin, “I would like to formally apologize for my behavior last night. I am sorry for any embarrassment I caused.” Siorbie’s voice wavered, her gaze never rising far off of her plate. “I hope you all can forgive me.”

The king remained silent, opting to dive into his breakfast. “My dear, you have nothing to apologize for, anyone in your predicament would have reacted the same.” The queen reassured her. “My mother is exactly right you have nothing to apologize for. Right T’Challa?” Shuri addressed the still silent king. Ramonda pinched her son under the table to get him to reply. “Your apology is accepted. Do not embarrass me again. People are going to talk but you must be stronger than that. Last night was a huge disappointment, you cannot simply flee a party in your honor just because of a few council members. That is simply something you can not do. I hope we do not repeat last night’s episode Ms. Sirobie.” T’Challa glared, before turning back to his plate.

“T’Challa!” Shuri hissed. “What, it needed to be said, she embarrassed us and she must never do it again.”

“If you’ll excuse me,” Sirobie, stood from her seat, fighting the tears of shame back from her eyes. Queen Ramonda, Shuri, Your majesty,” the woman dipped her head in greeting to each of the family before walking out.

Ramonda glared at her son, until Sirobie was out of the room. “I can not believe you T’Challa. I did not raise you to be this kind of king. Where is your compassion? Your sympathy? All of the things that my son made sure to excercise when he took that throne? You need to apologize to your fiancee.”

“I agree, it is a wonder you have gotten far with any woman,” Shuri scowled. “For the last time, she is not my fiancee!” The king fired back. “T’Challa. We will not have this conversation again. I will not have to repeat myself again.” The queen glared at her son, the disappointment and anger written all over her face.

The king stood from the table. “She told you,” Shuri instigated. “Shuri,” Queen Mother reprimanded as T’Challa glanced at her. “Go,” the queen gestured, turning her attention to her oldest. T’Challa walked out into the hall, catching a glimpse of Sirobie as she turned a corner down the hall. “Sirobie,” he called, hurrying to catch up to the girl. Her tearstained face, and her haste to wipe the tears from her face broke his resolve. His words from the breakfast table haunting his memory. “Your Majesty,” the student bowed her head. “Please, T’Challa is just fine.” The king waved a hand.

“I.. came to,” he started, momentarily distracted by her eyes. The way they glew in the sun flooding the hall through the large glass windows. “Are you alright your majesty?”

“Please, T’Challa is perfectly fine.” the king stalled once more. “With all due respect, your majesty.I must get ready to meet with your mother.”

Sirobie’s refusal to call him by his name spoke volumes to the young king. He had never had to try to get someone to want to talk to him as a friend. Quite frankly, after what he had said to her, he would not want to talk to himself either. The guilt settled uncomfortably on his chest and throat. In front of him Sirobie shifted from resting on one hip to the other, her hand coming to settle on the hip that was now propped out.

“The day after tomorrow,” he started.

“Thursday,” Sirobie interrupted. “Yes,” the king cleared his throat, “Thursday we will be visiting the Women and Children’s Hospital. As a couple. We will leave as soon as breakfast is over.”

“I will be there,” Sirobie nodded, turning on her heel. Quickly making her way to her room. She pushed open the door, wiping the last traces of her tears from her eyes. She looks up to find Eshe and three other women packing things away and cleaning her room.

“Oh I was not expecting you back so soon,”Eshe, paused to bow before Sirobie. “Please do not mind me. I am just heading to the balcony. Thank you all for your work. The room looks beautiful.” Sirobie smiled.

“It is our pleasure, your grace. This is Lesedi, Leena, and Kagiso.” The three women all curtsied in turn. “Are you all taught how to do that correctly?” Sirobie asked. “It takes a little practice yes,” Eshe smiles. “Well, you’ll have to teach me sometime.”

“As you wish.” The women smiled. “May I ask one more question?”

“Of course, your grace,” Kagiso smiled. “Please call me Sirobie, but have any of you seen my art supplies? They confiscated them when I first came in.”

“I have not, but I will keep an eye out for them if you would like,” Kagiso smiled. “If you don’t mind,” Sirobie smiled. “I left some paper and pencils on the balcony. Okoye mentioned that you liked to draw.” Eshe gestured out onto the balcony.

“Okoye?” Sirobie frowned. “The woman who escorted you in to the palace,” noticing the fear that drained into Sirobie’s eyes, Eshe gently squeezed her hand. “She is much nicer than she seems, you just look like someone who is perpetually on the general’s bad side.”

“That’s comforting,”Sirobie muttered.

“I will be back tonight to help you prepare for bed.”Eshe curtsied once more before all of the women gathered their things and walked out of the room.

Sirobie continued out to the balcony. She grabbed the sketchbook and began to sketch the Wakandan countryside. The large panther mountain catching her attention. She converted the mountain side it was carved in, to a woman. Her hand sat upon the panthers head. Seemingly calming the alert panther, flowers and trees wove a beautiful mountain dress for her strong posture. Pausing just before she got to the face, Sirobie sighed. A knock broke her focus. She placed the sketchbook on her bed before opening the door.

The bald headed warrior from her first memories of the palace stood in front of her door. “Ms. Sirobie, Queen mother requested that I escort you to her chambers for lessons.” Okoye informed Sirobie. “Of course,” the woman walked out into the hall, shutting the door behind her. The two walked in silence until Sirobie spoke up. “General Okoye?” she started, the question floating in the air. “Thank you for the sketch pad, that was very sweet of you.”

A pregnant silence followed, the women both aware of each others presence, neither wanting to pop the bubble once more. “I hope you take it as an apology. I am sorry for the way I treated you when we first met. But, Kamyra and I have never got along. So when she ran away, that was the ‘last straw’ as you americans say. I hope you can understand.”

“I will try,” Sirobie smiled. “That is more than I deserve,” Okoye bowed her head in thanks. “May I ask a question?”Sirobie broke the silence this time. “Anything,” Okoye replied.

“Why does no one seem to like Kamyra?” The college girl looked to the woman on her right. “Besides her being just a horrible person to be around, she is using T’Challa. I am not quite sure of the particulars, but there is some old obscure promise that King T’Chaka swore T’Challa to keep. It requires him for some reason, as he insists, to marry Kamyra. Since she knows, that she will be queen no matter what, she has never hidden her disdain for our country, and everything that will be required of her as our Queen.”

“But, she does know that as queen she will have to abide by at least some of the rules right?” Sirobie frowns. “She has T’Challa wrapped around her little finger. The man is too scared to even confront her about it,” Okoye frowns.

“Shouldn’t a queen love her country though?”

“Spoken like a true queen,” Okoye smiled. “No,” Sirobie immediately dismissed with a small smile, “I am simply an imposter. Besides, the king hates me.”

Okoye stops walking in front of a large grey door,  “He does not hate you, trust me. The Queen is waiting for you.”

Sirobie smiled, “Thank you Okoye,” Sirobie smiled. The young woman gathered all of her courage, and knocked on the vibranium door. “Come in,” the queen invited, smiling as the large door creaked open to reveal Sirobie. “Are you ready to begin?” Ramonda smiled as Sirobie took a seat. 

“Sure,” the college student replied. 

“First lesson. Your answer is always yes. Never, sure, might as well, or maybe. No matter how you are feeling. In public, the answer is always yes. Unless your answer is no, or require more delicate wording,” The queen instructed. 

“Understood?

“Yes, I understand.”

“Great, let us begin. I see you will be a fast learner.” 

Okoye threw one last wink at the girl before closing the large doors once more. Sirobie took a deep breath before turning back to the queen.

A/N: A story that popped into my head while listening to You Rock My World (obviously). Probably won’t be another part.

Warnings: Nothing really.

The blue lights reflected off of the King of Wakanda’s face. His measured steps floating him effortlessly down the stairs. Eyes dead set on a woman sitting at the bar. Her dress hugged her physique beautifully. Her posture was relaxed, laying casually in the bar stool chair. She twirled the glass of liquor aimlessly in her hand as she observed the room. Eyes lazily caressing every aspect of the bar.

“Is this seat taken?” T’Challa interrupted her perusing. “It will be if you sit in it,” she tilted the glass back at her lips. Ice clinking melodically, the liquor drifted past her lips. Unbuttoning his suit coat button, the king settled onto the seat next to her. He raised a hand absentmindedly, signaling for the bartender. “May I?” his hand gesturing to her now empty glass.

“If I said no, would that really stop you?” she replied coolly, glancing up at him. “Two of whatever the lady desires.”

The bartender glanced at her expectantly. “That depends. Do I want to be sober for this conversation?” her lips curled into a grin. “I will leave that decision up to you.”

“We’ll have your oldest Pinot Noir,” she requested. The bartender nodded before walking off. She turned slowly in her chair, eyes journeying slowly over her newest beverage venture’s financier. “Well, your majesty, your people must be doing well for themselves.” her words sliced through the silence. T’Challa’s eyes narrowed slightly, his hand involuntarily tightening the slightest. The mysterious woman’s eyes darted towards the movement in her periphery. “It was a simple parlor trick your majesty,” she teased, slowly nodding in acknowledgement of the bartender. He gracefully poured them each a glass. T’Challa’s eyes followed his every movement, eyes clouded with the questions he was anticipating being able to ask. The neck of the wine bottle rolled off, just above the rim of the second glass. With the wine still wrapped in a linen napkin, the bartender set the bottle down before walking off.

“How?” the king asked, watching her fingers slink around the stem of the glass. Gently, she swirled the expensive wine around. Watching the liquid splash gently off of each side of the glass. She allowed herself to take a sip, “Your right hand, bears a signet ring.”

“That could be anyone’s family heirloom.” he surmised. “Ah, but Americans, and Europeans tend to be flashier. An unfortunate habit we seemed to have acquired over the milenia.” she shrugged. “Now your accent, it points to West African Influence. But, not a very prominent country. As foretold by your, albeit charming, uncommon accent. On certain words, your otherwise flawless english, tends to hesitate almost, hinting at a strange vernacular structure for you. Now, what West African country has very wealthy families. Not many that wouldn’t have accents that I am familiar with.” she paused, raising the glass to her lips again. “Now, here’s the fun part. When you walked in, you had three guards with you. All female. Relatively unheard of in any country. Except one that I’ve only heard of in passing rumors. A small, private, country that also has a monarchy. With a new king,” she grinned. “Therefore, T’Challa Udaku, King of Wakanda. Based on your spending, tonight the cut of your suit included, you are either a horrible monarch, or Wakanda is richer than it is letting on.” she finished, taking another sip of her wine.

“Spy?” he placed his glass gently on the table, turning to face her. “Assassin. Former.” she corrected. Tilting the glass back once more. The king raised an eyebrow. “They used to start young,” she answered his unspoken question. Not glancing up from her glass. “24,” she tilted the glass back once more, reaching for the bottle to pour another. “I didn’t,” the king began.

“You didn’t have to.”

What do you do know?” he inquired.

“I work for myself.”

“How so,”

“Government officials have the most to hide.” she pointed, cocking her head slightly.

She slipped gracefully off of her stool. Grabbing her glass she winked at T’Challa before walking off. The king signed his tab before following a few moments later. “I figured, we should at least finish the bottle together.” he slid into the booth opposite from her. Her eyes gazing over the city.

“Persistent,” she replied. Still glancing out of the window.

“I get what I want.”

“What exactly is that?” she hummed, swirling the wine in her glass once more.

The king took another sip. “You.”

She hummed in response, glancing at him from the corner of her eye. “How does this benefit you?”

“What do you mean?”

“You barely know me. I barely know you.” she replied, casually finishing off her glass. T’Challa poured her another.

“You are a beautiful woman who intrigues me.”

“And you are a king. We are still at square one,” sh eyed him. “ Me being a king is not benefit enough for you?” He tilted his head slightly puzzled. “Are you insinuating that it should be your majesty?” Her lips pulling into a fierce line. “No, I am simply intrigued by the fact that it is not.”

“Why should it be your majesty. I feel as though relationships should be mutually beneficial. I get to experience a whole new world with you. As a result of you being a king,” She explained.

“So you admit you are open to the idea,” a sly grin spread across his face. “I might be. Depending on your answer.” She raised the glass to her lips.

“Very well. I want you to come back with me to Wakanda. I want you to teach me how to read people. We shall start with six months. Everything you need will be provided. After that period. We can reassess, granted that you wish to stay longer.” The king set his wine glass flat on the table.

The woman finished the rest of her wine. “I’ll sleep on it.” She slid out of her seat. “Thank you, for a lovely evening.”

She started gracefully towards the door. “Wait. When will I see you again? I leave New York-“

“In two weeks,” she finished. “How did you?”

“The UN assembly is in two weeks. You’ll have my answer by then.” She began walking again. T’Challa signaled for his Dora to follow at a distance. “How will I reach you?”

“Trust me, we will meet again. Have I been wrong so far?” She cocked her head. “Besides, chasing after women doesn’t look good on you my king.” She teased.

“Image be damned. I know a good thing when I see one.”

“Good things always come back around. Goodnight my king.”

She glanced back, red blossoming under her smooth ebony cheeks. She turned her back once more, disappearing into the night.

Summary: AU where T’Challa loves Reader but is married to Nakia. Both of the women he loves try to convince him to take a break.

Warnings: fluff, self doubt, fluff, weddings, chick fil a

A/N: This is the end of the road. I’m so glad you’ve all been here with me. This was my first fic on tumblr. I’m so proud of how it turned out. I’m eternally grateful to all of the writers. ( @brianabreeze @kumkaniudaku @dramaqueenamby @royallyprincesslilly @90sinspiredgirl @halfrican-heat @sisterwifeudaku). Who were supportive of this new, upstart writer and her crazy idea. I sincerely hope you’ve all enjoyed. I look forward to keep writing fics for you all! Thank you so much for the journey. The next chapter of Redemption should be up soon. I’ve also got some other stories up my sleeve.

With all my love,

XO ❤️

“Now can you say Shuri?” The young scientist cooed. “Sure- ee.” Your son babbled in amusement as Shuri tried to combine him to say her name. “Suffe,” he giggled clapping his hands. “No sureee- eeee” the princess tried once again, to no avail. “Shuri,” you called. Alerting your son to your presence. He quickly reached out for you as you walked over to the princess. “Shuri, he is only nine months old. He can barely say, baba.” you grinned picking the chubby baby from her arms. ”hi umama's joy, ” you grinned. Kissing the young prince’s cheeks

“You are never to young to be a genius. Y/N look at me. I’ve been running the Wakandan technology department since I was 16. He could be doing it by 12.” The princess grinned. “Let’s get him walking first, then we can talk about becoming a child prodigy.” You smiled kissing the side of Shuri’s forehead. “Where is your brother?” You asked setting your son on his little feet. Gently supporting his arms, you followed him as he tried to toddle around. “Oh he told me to give this to you,” Shuri exclaimed handing you an elegantly folded note. “Here I’ll trade you Dakari for the note.” Shuri switched places with you. Dakari whimpered slightly as you walked from behind him. “I’m right here unyana wam,” you kissed his cheek once more before settling on the bench.

Hello my love,

I will be back late from my meeting tonight. Okoye has the project plans for the next phase of The Lost Tribe.

All my love,

T’Challa

“I guess I should actually get some work done today,” you sighed pushing yourself up off of the bench. “Come on Dakari. Let’s get some work done before Baba gets home,” The young prince giggled. You laughed, sweeping him out of Shuri’s arms. You both gave the princess a hug. “I’ll see you at dinner eh?” Shuri nodded her assent. You kissed her forehead once more. Carrying Dakari on your hip, you began the short walk to the training rooms.

The sounds and smells of the gym, hit you long before the sight did. The Dora stood in challenge formation, as a new initiate battled Okoye. Noticing your presence, the general winked before flipping the poor woman on her back. ”that will be all for the day, ” she smiled, extending an arm to help the woman up. ”Good job Aduba, we will continue working. But today you held your own. For that, I am proud.” the general smiled. Aduba’s smile stretched across the planes of her face. She saluted the general in time with the other Dora. Before running excitedly to her friends.

Okoye walked over to you. Her attention was immediately drawn to the giggling Dakari. ”nkosana wam omncinci, ” she cooed. ”the little prince is not so little anymore, ” you huffed, shifting Dakari higher on your hip. ”he will be a great warrior, ” she smiled.

”so far he is a certified genius and a great warrior. I'm afraid unyana wam will have the biggest head of them all, ” You teased, while Dakari giggled. You bounced him on your hip. ”T’Challa said you had some business plans for me?” You questioned the general. “Ah, Yes. I had them taken to your office when I decided to train.” She frowned apologetically. “Eh, I guess I will go do a final sweep through of the chateau before the construction workers come for renovations. Would you like to come with us?” You offered. “I am afraid I cannot. We are getting together to plan Ayo’s surprise party while she is out of town. “I was wondering who could convince the general to take a trip off,” You teased, I should have known only Ayo could do it.”

“Well, she was right. I trust that she can take care of T’Challa. We also needed to work on this party.” the woman admitted. “I will not hold you long then. I will be looking for my invitation in the mail,” you smiled. Okoye nodded once more before jogging over to the Doras. Your Kimoyo beads hummed gently on your wrist. You turned your palm up in surprise, before your mother’s hologram appeared from your beads. “So she is alive?” she sassed, raising an eyebrow in faux shock. “Hello to you too umama,” you sighed as you started your journey out to the car. “What is all that sighing for?” she frowned. “Because you aren’t calling about me mama.” She feigned shock, “Who says I am not calling about my wonderful, beautiful, daughter who can take care of herself.”

Mama, you have not asked about me since Dakari was born,” you frowned slightly. “Since you brought it up, how is my little Daka?” your mother grinned. Making kissy faces at the baby in your arms. “Goodbye mama,” you sighed about to turn your wrist over. “Wait a minute. I don’t know who you think you are, hanging up in your mother’s face like that. Don’t get too grown miss thang.” the older woman fussed through the phone. “I am sorry umama.” you apologized. “Now, I was calling to ask if i could hang out with you and Daka today. If you aren’t too busy?” she inquired. “Only if you do not mind watching him so I can get some work done.” you offered. “I never mind,” she grinned. “I’ve got to stop by my office to grab some paperwork then we will be by to pick you up.” you explained. “I am looking forward to it. See you soon babycakes.” She blew a final kiss into the beads. You turned your wrist over. Pushing open your office door, you grabbed the new files off of your desk. “What do you think about going old school today Daka?” you cooed. Walking down the halls, you quickly notified the security of your departure. Grabbing the keys to the car you shared with T’Challa, you stepped in to the brightly lit garage.

You sat Dakari on one hip, hoisting the baby car seat onto the other. You briefly sat dakari in the front seat. Maneuvering the seat into the car, you grabbed the prince and placed him his car seat. At your command, the seat belts slid into place. Ignoring Dakari’s cries of protest, you slipped into the front seat. Waving the metal key plate over the sensor, the car locked into your kimoyo beads. The engine purred quietly as you switched rinto reverse. Ari Lennox poured through the speakers. The city center fell behind as you headed to your mother’s house. You smoothly floated into the driveway. Not wanting to leave Dakari alone, and not necessarily wanting to take him out of the seat.You sent your mother a quick message.

A minute later she appeared on the front porch. Quickly locking the front door, she glides down the steps and into the back seat. After showering Dakari with kisses she settled in, finally turning to you. “Hey baby,” she smiled. “Hey mama.” You pulled the car into gear and quickly began the journey to Gracemeadow.

“How are you my love?” Your mom called from the backseat. Dakari latched onto her finger, playing in his own little world. “I’m good. Been rather busy lately.” You signaled a turn. The hover train passed by quietly. “That’s good. Are you adjusting to the new workload well?” She inquired. “ I believe so. Most of my duties are speaking and interacting with the people. Also with social outreach. The worst parts are paperwork and council meetings. I still prefer paperwork to having to deal with the elders,” you frowned.

“Ah Yes, those pompous pain in the asses,” your mother frowned as well. Your mouth fell open in shock. As long as you had known her, your mother was not one to use obscene language for no reason. “What? I have had my fair share of runs ins with the council,” she shrugged, the corners of her mouth turning up into the hint of a smile. “Believe or not, who the best friend of the king marries, is kind of a big deal. Council had your grandparents and I vetted twice.” She explained. “You’re joking right?” She laughed. “I wish I was..,” she paused, “speaking of Royal men. How is my son in law?” A laugh tumbled out of your throat before you could stop it. “What is so funny?”

“Mama. No one is married. You’ve been calling T’Challa your son in law since the day you met him. Back in year 10.” You smiled, recalling the way the then prince’s eyes widened in shock. “Call it mother’s intuition, but I just knew it was meant to be. You two were going to get together, and stay together. Albeit a very roundabout way, you both made the way back to each other.” She grinned. “And you both gave me my favorite grandchild.” She cooed over Dakari. “Mama, Daka is your only grandchild, unless there’s something I need to,” you started. “For now.” She interrupted. “Though. If T’Challa gets his way, he won’t be alone for long,” the older woman grinned as the car landed gently in front of the chateau.

“What do you mean has his way,” You turned to face her as she unbuckled your son. “Don’t try to fool me. The way you two go at it. Even now that Dakari is born, I’m surprised you’re not pregnant again.” She dismissed. Stepping out of the car with a sleeping Dakari. “Now I know he’s got a promise ring and a whole country on the premise that he’s going to marry you. But have you two talked about making it official?” She pressed following behind as you unlocked the wooden door. “It is official mama. I am a queen in training.”

“Yeah yeah yeah, that’s all good and great for you. But I mean wedding date official.” She insisted, shutting the large door behind her. Your sandled feet padded around on the tile floors as you searched the corners of the kitchen. “We will when we are ready mama. We’ve been in counciling for a few months. It’s been beneficial to us both. We both had some issues to deal with. The biggest thing has been trust and vulnerability. I am ready whenever T’Challa is, But I will not rush him to his decision. He needs to be ready to take that leap with me. If he’s not there yet, he’s not there yet. That’s ok.” You explained.

“ I am glad you all are taking the time to better yourselves. But is been ten years. 8 of those you’ve been together for. Time is marching on. Neither of your are getting any younger. Don’t you want to start a family?” She insisted. “We have started a family.” you rebutted. “One that is planned,” she corrected. You turned in frustration as she stared at you from the kitchen island. You sighed, gently falling back onto the kitchen counter. You took the moment to glance out he window, your mother lightly bouncing Dakari back to sleep. Your head dropped with the outpouring of breath. Searching for the right way to express your feelings. “For the past two weeks, T’Challa has barely said two words to me umama. It went from nightly calls to letters. Letters that he has passed to me through other people. For Bast’s sake they are typed mama. He doesn’t even take the time to write me a letter.” your voice quivered with unshed tears. You dabbed at the corner of your eyes where you felt tears beginning to form. “intombazana yakho,” your mother started as you wiped furiously at the tears that watered the roses of your cheeks. “I did not mean to hurt you,” she tried again. Laughter strangled its way out of your throat. The soft sound worried your mother. Shaking your head, you grabbed the closest dish towel to dry your eyes. “No, I shouldn’t have worried you.” you apologized. “I… I just don’t know what to do. I don’t know if I have done something. If I messed it all up.” Your mother frowned. Cradling Dakari in one arm she made her way over to you and pulled you close. “Do not blame yourself my love. Just talk to him.” she soothed, rubbing circles on the curve of your back. “And you never worry me ok. It’s my job to be here for you. Even now, when you’ve got a child of your own.” You nodded, continuing to gather the tears that streamed down your face.

The sound of the front door opening startled you both. “Hello?” T’Challa’s voice rang through the house. “Entle?” Your betrothed’s voice reached Dakari’s ears. Your son began to cry out for his father. As the footsteps padded closer, you turned to the sink, scrambling to wipe the tears from under your eyes. “Umama,” T’challa’s voice laced with surprise filled the room. You heard them embrace before Dakari’s giggled floated through the room. His change in arms was now evident. “Entle?” T’Challa addressed you, “Y/N? Are you not happy to see me?” he teased. “Come on Dakari,” your mom interrupted. “Come one baby boy, I’ll show you where you lived while you were in mommy’s tummy.” The little prince whined, his grandmother prying him from his father’s arms. The king waited until your mother had left the room before her approached you. “Entle? What happened. You fidgeted with the dish towel, straightening it over and over as you avoided the question that currently sat. Fat and heavy on your vocal chords. “T’Challa, did I do something wrong?” you whispered. “What? Why would you think that?” he came closer, turning you to face him. “I.. I just- You haven’t looked at me in weeks T’Challa.” you confessed.

“What do you mean,” he frowned, “We’ve been with each other every night. Multiple times a night love. I don’t think I could do much more,” he laughed cautiously. “No.. Not that… I mean that’s fine- I mean it’s great,” you rambled. “Then what do you mean entle. I cannot help until you communicate a problem.” he stooped down to catch your gaze. Which up until then, had been intent on studying the marble floors. “ Outside of the bedroom. In the halls, I try to catch your eye and you look the other direction. You are always out with Nakia or Okoye. You spend hours in the lab with shuri and ask not to be disturbed. You take dinner in your office. Alone. You come in. We have sex. Then you’re up before the sun, and gone long before I wake.” you spilled. Emotions flooded back into your voice. T’challa’s head dropped, and so did your heart. “It’s just, if- if you didn’t want me around anymore you should have said so.” the last words, tumbled out as a whisper. Silence smothered the room as T’Challa hung his head in silence. “I should have listened to Shuri,” he finally cursed. “What?” you asked tentatively. “I am sorry Entle,” he apologized. He took both of your hands in his own. “I was trying to surprise you.” he sighed. “I was with Nakia and Okoye trying to find a ring for you. So I could propose. I mean we went to every country in the world. I couldn’t make up my mind. So the last time. I asked Shuri to accompany us. And we found it.” his mouth broke into a grin. “I was planning this whole elaborate plan. And Dakari and I had matching suits.” his enthusiasm was infectious. You soon found yourself grinning slightly as well. “ I was trying to keep it a secret. I knew if I was around you too long I would tell it all. So I tried to avoid you,” his grin fell, “ but it seems I hurt you instead. I am truly sorry entle. I just wanted to surprise you.” he frowned. “Oh,” silence filled the kitchen once more, “ I guess I always ruin your surprises huh?” you joke half heartedly. He came to lean against the counter next to you. Intertwining your fingers, he pressed a light kiss to your knuckles. “Mhmm,” he hummed, “ I am sorry I caused you to doubt yourself. It was never you.” He assured. “Hmm… What happened with the ring?” you pried innocently. “Noo,” T’Challa laughed. “What. I just asked a question?” You shrugged. “I’ve already ruined the surprise partly. Let me have this one thing,” the king begged. “Fine,” you conceded. “You want something to drink?” You walked over to the large fridge, which you always kept stocked with water. “I am good. Shuri made us stop by her favorite restaurant before we came back.” He replied, watching you move around the kitchen. Fingering the velvet box in his suit pocket. “Oh,” you glanced over your shoulder. You grabbed a couple of water bottles out of the closet. Moving towards the fridge to restock the bottles. “Yeah, quite a curious little establishment.” he replied, watching as you moved back to the pantry for more water. “They are unlike any other american restaurant i’ve been to entle. I mean- They make tons of money selling chicken, and lemonade. While only being open 6 days a week. With reasonable hours.” T’Challa explained. Your snort surprised and warmed the young king’s heart as you placed the remaining bottles in the fridge. As his fingers ran over the black box, he knew this was the moment.

“Chick-fil-a?” your laugh pulled him back down to earth. “Yes! I have become quite fond of that American Lemonade.” he laughed. He took a deep breath, and kneeled behind you. “Think we could get it flown in for the wedding?” he finished. ‘Are you serious T’Challa? You laughed, closing the large fridge door. You shook your head turning to find the love of your life kneeling before you. Your gasp prompted him to speak. “Very. Because I want you Y/N Fezile to marry me. To be my wife, and raise our son together. And to sip lemonade together. You in the most beautiful dress ever created wearing my ring and my last name. Forever.”

I think we should call Chick-fil-a,” you cried ambushing him in a bear hug after a pregnant silence. His laugh filled the room, “We should huh?” You nodded as tears streamed down your face. He gently gripped your left hand and pulled the stunning ring out of the box. A fresh wave of tears cascaded down your cheeks as it slid over your finger. “Its beautiful T’Challa,” you sighed. The ring glinted in the setting sun.”You are beautiful,” T’Challa pressed a kiss to the ring. Dakari crawled from around the corner. He plopped himself in the middle of you two. “Our family, is beautiful.” T’Challa corrected kissing his son’s cheek. “Our family is the future. And the future is beautiful,” You smiled. Pressing a kiss to both of your boys’ cheeks. The sun setting behind the small family. Only to rise again, over Wakanda. And its new royal family.

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