#choicesflashfics

In recent years their family party grew to include significant others and their babies. Everyone had a special someone to kiss at midnight. Everyone but Sawyer. 

When she broke the news to her parents that she was staying in Boston for New Years, there was disappointment on both ends of the line. A couple weeks had passed since she returned to work, and the medical leave she took to recuperate from the attack had already eaten up more time than she could afford. She couldn’t spare any more time away. Her parents were understanding, and Sawyer found a silver lining in that she finally had a special someone to kiss at midnight this year.

At least that was the case until she looked at her schedule a week later. Zaid accommodated her request for extra shifts, allowing her to make up clinic hours. But given that she worked a double on Christmas, she didn’t expect another on New Year’s Eve. She should have known better. It was one of the busiest nights of the year in the emergency department.  

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After a quick coffee break at Derry’s, Ethan helped Sawyer put her coat back on. He took the cream colored beanie that she pulled from her pocket and fitted it over her head. “Nice bunny tail,” he said, gently swatting the giant cotton ball sewn to the top of her knit hat. 

“Watch it, Mister, or you won’t be getting any of this tail for a while,” she turned and shook her rear end at him.

Just before they headed back inside the hospital, Sawyer squeezed his hand. “Sure you don’t want to volunteer and stay for another shift?” she asked, looking up at him with a puppy dog pout.

The first time Sawyer returned to work after the attack, with her landlord in tow, it had been a complete disaster. Though things had gone better this time around, Ethan kept an eye out for any signs of distress. She had her ups and downs, and he couldn't help but worry about her. "Is everything all right?"

“Yeah, it’s fine. You don’t need to worry. I promise,” she tried to assure him, sensing his concern. “I’m just going to miss you tonight, that’s all.” 

Ethan could still feel something was off, but dropped it.   

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It took him twice as long to get home with New Year’s revelers heading to their festivities around town. After a light dinner, a satisfying workout, and a long, hot shower, Ethan settled on his couch. The apartment suddenly felt too quiet, too empty. He missed his girlfriend. Since Sawyer began picking up double-shifts, they had not had a lot of time alone. Sure he got to see her at work. But it wasn’t the same as curling up together on the couch and talking about their day, or kissing whenever they felt like it, or waking up in each other’s arms. 

Hoping it would provide some distraction, he turned on the television and watched the local news. When the weather segment began, Ethan grew bored. He reached for a book on the coffee table, finding Sawyer’s notebook underneath. He recognized it from their DT meetings, where she took meticulous notes and sometimes doodled during their brainstorming sessions. She must have forgotten it the last time she stayed over. 

The way her mind worked fascinated him. She could be discussing the differences between apples and oranges when… Click! An idea would pop into her head to check their patient for uneven skin texture, giving her the lead needed to reach a successful diagnosis. 

Curious to know her thoughts about their current, undiagnosed patient, Ethan picked up the notebook and flipped through the pages. They were filled with detailed notes from each of their team meetings. Random side notes littered the margins. Tacos or burritos? He chuckled, wondering if the question was part of a diagnostic brainstorm, or if she was just hungry at the time. Turning the page to a more recent entry, he found Sawyer’s notes from a meeting he conducted last week. Ethan had attempted to inspire the team by conducting a goal-setting exercise. He asked everyone to jot down a few professional and personal goals for the new year. 

Several emotions washed over Ethan as he read her goals. She was cute as hell, but his heart broke a little knowing how much weight she still carried on her shoulders. 

On the TV, the New Year’s Eve countdown now aired. A correspondent stood in front of a large crowd of people gathered in Times Square. “…And according to folklore, a kiss at midnight brings luck and strength to that relationship for the rest of the year. So, who will you be kissing when the clock strikes twelve?” Ethan looked down at her list again. Is that why she wanted me to stay tonight? Was that the reason she seemed so… disappointed? 

A timer in the corner of the TV screen counted down the time to the famous ball drop. Forty minutes until midnight. 

Ethan never paid any mind to superstitions. Thinking back to the events of the past two years, he thought to himself, “How much worse could it get?” He shuddered at the thought, bolting to his closet where he threw on a pair of jeans and a sweater, then slipped into his running shoes. He was not going to take any chances, and most importantly, he was intent on giving Sawyer whatever she desired. If she wanted a kiss at midnight, he would make it happen. Keys and jacket in hand, the door to his apartment slammed shut behind him.

Ethan stepped into the atrium and checked the clock behind the reception desk. Fifteen minutes until midnight. 

He pushed through the doors of the emergency department a couple minutes later. It was eerily quiet. The calm before the storm. In about an hour, the waiting room would be packed with reckless and unfortunate party-goers. He didn’t see Sawyer anywhere, but wanting to confirm, Ethan inquired at the triage desk. 

“Happy New Year, Dr. Ramsey,” the triage coordinator greeted. 

“Happy New Year, Anabel. Have you seen Dr. Brooks?”

“About an hour ago? She mentioned trying to catch a quick nap before the midnight rush.”

“Thank you.”

Ethan made his way to the on-call room nearest the emergency room. When he opened the door, the beds were full of sleeping doctors, but Sawyer was not among them. After a quick peek in the cafeteria, he headed up to the Internal Medicine floor. The hallways were dim and quiet at this time of night. He checked all the obvious places. Staff lounge, empty. Resident locker room, empty. The on-call room was also empty, save for a pager that someone had left behind. Duh! 

“Could you page Dr. Brooks, please?” he asked the nurse sitting behind the circular desk. Not a moment later, the pager in his hand started to vibrate. 

Of course. He wondered if this was the universe mocking him for his skepticism.  

Jan, the night supervisor, quietly exited the patient’s room behind him. “Hey kiddo, I thought you went home a few hours ago?” She noticed the pager in his hand. “Did someone page you?”

“Uh, no. Jan, I’m looking for Sawy- for Dr. Brooks? Have you seen her?” he asked. 

“No, hon, but I’ve seen several folks making their way up to the helipad for the fireworks. Maybe she’s up there?”

Yes! She loves fireworks. Ethan looked at his wrist. Five minutes until midnight. 

After thanking the nurses, he walked with purpose to the elevator bank and punched the up button. Come on, come on! Four minutes to midnight. 

When he reached the seventh floor he jogged to the helipad entrance. The automatic glass doors slid open and a frigid gush of wind hit his face. With only the light of the helipad beacons, Ethan frantically scanned the gathered crowd. She’s not here. Dammit!  

He checked the time again. Two minutes until midnight.

As he turned to head back inside, he noticed a large chunk of snow falling from above. It fell from a secluded section of the rooftop that few knew how to access. Naveen referred to it as “the bird’s nest.” He shared its location with Ethan, and in turn, Ethan shared it with Sawyer. It was a place they could go when they needed a minute of peace. To his surprise, he saw what appeared to be a snowball floating in midair. Wait… not a snowball. A bunny tail! 

When he reached the stairwell, he glanced at his watch again. One minute until midnight.

Climbing the stairs three at a time, he quickly ascended two flights of stairs, bursting onto the ninth floor. Thankfully these hallways were lined mostly with administrative offices and were completely abandoned given the late hour. Sprinting to the end of the long hallway, Ethan pulled on a door marked “Authorized Personnel Only.” He launched himself through the dark doorway and blindly climbed another flight of stairs. 

Just as his hand reached the door at the top of the staircase, he heard an explosion on the other side. Midnight.

Sawyer jumped when she heard the steel door crash against the stone exterior of the building. Turning around, she saw Ethan. Steam puffed from his mouth as he tried to catch his breath. 

With the sky sparkling behind her, he grabbed the sides of her face, and crashed his lips onto hers. Once the urgency had subsided, he changed the angle and kissed her again. Deep and tender. When he pulled away to give his lungs a chance to expand, Sawyer could see the fireworks reflected in his eyes.

Tucked in his embrace, she smiled up at him. “What are you doing here?”

“Helping you keep your New Year’s resolutions.” 

She looked at him confused. “Wait... how did you know about that?” She hadn’t remembered mentioning it to him, or anyone for that matter. 

“You left your notebook at my apartment.” He reached into his pocket and handed her the pager. “You also left this in the on-call room.”

“Shit. Please don’t tell my boss.” 

“You’ll have to silence me with another kiss,” he smirked. 

“Well, if that's what it takes...” she laughed, standing on her tiptoes. She brushed her lips against his and whispered, “Happy New Year, Ethan.” 

Before claiming her lips again, he whispered back, “Happy New Year, Rookie.” 

Science class was different for me now that I no longer sat next to Liam, and shared a table with my sister, since Mrs. Barbour decided to make the class sit in alphabetical order, which I think the only reason for the change was to make taking roll easier. I glanced across the room to Liam whose partner was now Rashad.

My adorkable boyfriend who caught me watching him, smiled and held up his hot cocoa cup to toast me from across the room. Liam was the sweetest boyfriend and stopped by the local coffee shop Brew Bros and always got hot chocolate every morning the way that I liked it.

So I smiled while holding up my cup.

“Oh my God, can you two be any more nerdy?” Taylor asked.

“He’s nice, and you reap the benefits of it too. My boyfriend brings us both hot chocolate, or in your case a coffee drink you like every day without us asking.”

Taylor cocked her head to the side and air toasted Liam, taking a sip from her drink when the door opened.

“Ho , Ho, Ho!!!!! Candy Cane Grams, sponsored by the National Honor Society.”

“Make it quick, Santa.” There was a hint of sarcasm in Mrs. Barbour’s voice as she went to sit at her desk for a moment.

“And his lovely assistant Max Noel!”

“Wait… a sec… Are you seeing this too or am I having a stroke?”

Taylor doubled over in laughter “It is!!!! It’s Drake Walker-Claus.”

Taylor’s laugh seemed to antagonize Drake for a second, but good thing he had his assistant Maxwell. His brooding mood was offset by Max Noel making the class laugh with his dance versions of Christmas music as he followed around the room behind him.

“Hana Lee one for you.”

“Chris Powell four for you, you go Chris Powell!”

“Do we have a Riley Brooks here?”

“That’s her Max Noel. She’s Riley Brooks and looks nothing like the girl sitting next to her. Those two can’t possibly be related.”

“Riley Brooks here you go, one for you.”

“Thank you Santa.”

“Um….”

“And nothing at all for Taylor Brooks, not even coal or black licorice, bye.”

Drake and Max ran out of the room.

Taylor looked at me with curious eyes at the candy cane gram in my hand.

“Who’s that from?”

It wasn’t any of her business. I opened the envelope and read silently to myself.

Liam’s sweet words made me smile, and I didn’t have to answer her, and I looked at him from across the room.

“Oh my god. You guys are too much.”

Taylor looked upset, even though she shrugged it off. Later I found out why at her locker.

“I told you to get me a candy cane gram Nico!!!!”

“Well you telling me to do it, takes the surprise out of it. Me not doing it, guess what you were surprised weren’t you?”

My sister who was always loud looked at him and said nothing.

Before I knew it the words flew out of my mouth.

“Wow, you’re a really bad boyfriend Nico, my sister deserves better than you.”

I slammed my locker walking away from the two of them. I found out later that day, my sister broke up with him, in front of everyone in true dramatic Taylor fashion. I was proud of her.

Christmas Eve

Everyone had come over and was enjoying mom’s Christmas cookies and snacks. My dad brought in a big box sitting it down on the floor.

“I want to thank everyone for coming over tonight to spend time with our family. Our children picked people they care about to spend this time together with you. Ren and I are happy to have you in our home. We both grew up in the foster care system, and learned early in life, sometimes the people that care about you most, are not your blood relatives. So we try to celebrate that.”

“And when we had the opportunity to open our home up to two adorable identical twin girls, we couldn’t say no.” My mother chimed in.

“It’s the best decision they ever made. I went to sleep one night wishing I had a little sister. The next morning I woke up with two.” Jaiden spoke up.

“And we know what it’s like to be alone on Christmas, or missing someone special on Christmas that you were once close to. So we wanted to do something special. Liam would you mind sharing the Christmas Eve tradition you had that you told me about?”

“Christmas was my Mom’s favorite holiday. Every Christmas Eve that I can remember she’d dress us up in these ugly Christmas sweaters

and we would go ice skating on Lake Pine. She loved to ice skate. Then she’d make us take these dorky pictures in our Christmas sweaters that matched. I miss her a lot.”

“I miss her too. I’m not adopted, but Liam’s Mom always made me feel like I was her son too. So I really get what you’re saying about family not always being blood related. She was my mom too.”

Liam hugged his brother.

My dad opened the box.

“With a little help from Riley I found some what I would think are hideously awesome ugly Christmas sweaters, and am secretly happy for your love of Star Trek too. I’m sorry Liam, you can’t be the Captain, this is mine. But this one is yours.”

“Well if I can’t be Captain, being the science officer is the next best and most logical choice.” Liam took his blue sweater graciously.

“That’s what I said! Dad please say you got me a blue sweater too.”

“I did.”

After all the sweaters were handed out, there was still one left in the box.

“Guess you guys bought this before I broke up with Nico. No big deal.”

Once everyone was dressed, they headed out to the vehicles, and Liam stuffed the extra shirt into Leo’s trunk.

“I really don’t know how this is going to go Liam.”

“What do you mean?”

“Ice skating? Do you seriously trust me with knives on my feet?”

“Well good thing you’re not just Riley Brooks today, you’re the science officer for the USS Enterprise. Live long and prosper.”

Liam expected Riley to be as horrible on ice skates as she had been on roller skates, but Riley amazingly was incredibly balanced.

“Have you ice skated before?”

“No! I don’t know how I'm good at this! I usually have no natural balance.”

“You’re a natural at skating…”

“Ice skating. Let's clarify that.”

Taylor was still sitting on the bench watching the couples skate by. “She still hasn’t gotten out on the ice yet. I think she’s feeling lonely and the extra shirt probably made her think of Nico.”

Liam’s phone beeped. “Why don’t you go sit with her for a little bit, and I’ll be back in a few with some hot cocoas for us all.”

“Is cocoa your favorite drink?”

“Yes, and my mom used to always say your heart won’t feel cold if you always have a nice warm cup of cocoa. It always makes me feel better.”

I went to sit with Taylor and Liam continued walking toward the concessions stand.

“You okay?” I asked Taylor.

“I just don’t feel like skating, and look over there.”

Nico was there, with another girl on his arm.

“To be honest I never liked him Taylor. He called you T, like you were a drink or a shirt or something. He wasn’t even really that nice. Good riddance, I say.”

“I never thanked you for standing up for me that day Riley. It really meant a lot.”

“You’re my sister Taylor. I will always have your back, even when you pull me into a tornado.”

“Not on purpose!” She laughed.

“Oh it never is.” I remarked pulling Taylor closer to me in a hug. After a few seconds she pulled away from me.

“What are you doing here?”

“Helping Liam deliver hot cocoa. This one is yours.

I don’t like all the extra stuff in mine.”

Drake handed Taylor her cocoa, as he sat down next to her.

“Just hot and cocoa pretty much then right?”

“Exactly. I’m not that difficult to understand.”

“Do you like to ice skate, Drake?”

“Like it? It’s okay, but I can. Would you like to skate Taylor?”

Drake took off his coat wearing the remaining ugly sweater.

“Okay.” Taylor said in a nonchalant voice.

Taylor’s mood picked up immediately as she skated around with Drake on the ice. She never once glanced in Nico’s direction.

“That was really nice of you to do Liam.”

“He really does like her, you know. Maybe now she can finally see him with Nico out the way.”

“You’re so adorkably sweet Liam.”

“I know Riley, I know.”

Right Here Waiting - 6 

Chapter Summary: After spending time with his son, Liam begins his journey to repair his relationship with Riley. 

Music & Title Inspiration:  Right Here Waiting, Richard Marx  

A/N1: In this alternate universe, after King Constantine orchestrates two individual scandals to humiliate and entrap Riley Brooks and Olivia Nevrakis in shame, Madeleine Amaranth secures her position as the Queen of Cordonia. Riley, as the King’s mistress and Olivia, in self-imposed exile. Tariq is never found.  

A/N2: My submission for @choicesflashfics, Week#59, prompt #3 - “That was then. This is now. Things change.” 

A/N3: My submission for @choicesnovchallenge, prompt #28, Holidays and Events – French Toast Day  

Words: 2500

Brooklyn Heights, New York

Straightening his back, Liam rubbed his eyes, as the jet lag took its toll. After checking the time on his cell, Liam stood up and took another look at his sleeping son. His heart was full, and he felt a sense of peace that he had not known in a long time. He knew it would take time, but he was determined to earn Riley's trust again, and that he would never give up on his son. 

Riley waited for him in the kitchen and offered a warm smile as he entered its rustic décor. “I know it's late, but I'm starving. Do you want something to eat?” 

Liam was grateful for the offer. “Yes, thank you. I haven’t eaten anything since lunch. That would be great.” 

“Have a seat, and I’ll make us some dinner.” Riley smiled coquettishly, pulling a chair for him from under the table. 

Liam sat down at the kitchen table and watched as Riley busied herself with preparing their meal. It was a surreal moment, and he had a hard time believing that this was actually happening, but the aroma of the food and the sight of Riley moving about the kitchen with ease, made it all too real. 

As they ate, Liam could sense the tension between them. He knew there was so much left unsaid, but he was hesitant to push Riley too far, too fast. He decided to try a different tactic, one that was more familiar to them both. 

“How have you been, Riley?” 

Riley was startled by his question, and her eyes darted up to meet his. “I’ve been … okay. Busy with work, and William keeps me on my toes,” she replied. 

“Tell me about him,” Liam encouraged. 

Riley’s eyes lit up, and a smile tugged at her lips. “Well … he’s amazing, Liam.” Riley’s eyes sparkled with genuine love. “He’s smart, funny, and so full of energy. He loves animals, and his favorite food is chicken nuggets. He’s just …” she trailed off, tears filling her eyes. 

“He’s your whole world,” Liam finished for her. 

“Yes,” Riley said softly, her voice choked with emotion. 

“I am so, sorry I was not there for you, Riley. For both of you.” Liam’s expression was wistful. 

“Liam, how could you have known?” she replied, looking down; not able to return his gaze.   

Liam reached across the table and gently squeezed her hand. 

“Riley... look at me, please.” Slowly lifting her head, she met his gaze. “I will never stop regretting that I was not there for you. That you felt that you could not confide in me.” 

She gave him a tearful smile, her lips trembling. “We both know, had I told you, you would have given up the throne.  And the country could not afford that. And Madeleine …” Riley lost her battle with her tears and looked down to her hands. “Madeleine would have taken advantage of the situation, and …"  

Liam sighed, his thumb brushing the back of her hand. “Riley, I would have found a way. But you are right. My duty is to my people, first and foremost. Duty is important, especially when its most difficult to carry out.” 

“That is what I admire most about you, Liam.”  Riley’s breath hitched, “that is why I agreed to be your mistress when Tariq couldn’t be found.” 

“Riley, you were never my mistress, you are the love of my life,” he replied, his voice firm. 

“Liam, please.” Riley wiped the fresh tears away. 

“No, Riley, please let me finish... 

When I was crowned King, I vowed to always put the needs of my people before my own. I went through the motions of an engagement and then the marriage. But the day you left, love, I realized that without you, I could never be the King my people deserved. I was miserable, and I knew that if I lost you forever, I would never be happy again. Riley, you are my home.” 

“Liam, I …" 

“No, my love. You do not have to say anything. I just need you to know how I feel. I love you, and I will do whatever it takes to prove that to you.” Liam watched as Riley broke down and he at once moved to her side, taking her into his arms. 

"You don't have to say anything," he assured her. "I just want you to know that I'm here for you, and I'm not going anywhere. If you feel the same about me.” 

"What about Madeleine?" Riley asked, her eyes searching his. 

"As of this afternoon, Madeleine was served with dissolution papers. My lawyers have already let me know that, in exchange for clemency, that Madeleine will leave Cordonia. Riley, that marriage and along with it, the Cordonian arrangement, has been absolved.” 

Riley was speechless, clearly overwhelmed by his revelations. 

Liam lifted his hand to cup her cheek; he could see the exhaustion on her face, and he knew they both needed some rest. "Let's get some sleep, and we can talk more tomorrow." 

Riley nodded and stood, and he followed her down the hallway to her bedroom. They walked in silence as Riley's nerves were very aware of Liam’s proximity.  He looked so good, and it had been so long since she had felt his touch. She demurely smiled up at him and started to pull him through the door. 

"Riley," Liam began, slowing his walk, pausing beside the guest room. 

"But..." Riley protested. 

"Please, Riley, let's not rush this. I want to do things right this time. Let us begin to re-write our story.” 

Liam kissed her cheek. "Good night, my love. Sleep well." 

"You too, Liam," she responded. 

As Liam turned to leave, Riley impulsively reached out again to pull him close. Their lips met in a tender kiss, and Liam was lost in the sensation of her soft lips on his. It had been so long, and his body reacted instantly, the fire within him threatening to consume him. He forced himself to pull away, his breath ragged. 

"Riley..." he warned, unhooking her arms from his neck. 

"I know, Liam, I just had to have one last taste." 

Liam laughed, his heart soaring. "One last taste? Who said this will be the last time?" 

Riley giggled, her face flushing. "Good night, Liam." 

"Good night, Riley." 

They stood there for a moment, each taking in the sight of the other. Finally, Liam reluctantly turned and headed into the guest room. Riley closed her door and leaned against it, her heart pounding. She could not believe what had just happened, but she was elated and hopeful for the future. 

The Four Seasons Hotel, Manhattan 

Stumbling into the penthouse suite, Leo chortled, guiding the blond to his room with his hands firmly locked on her waist. The young woman giggled and pushed the door open, and he followed, closing the door behind them with a kick. 

"Now where were we?" Leo suggestively said, pulling the woman close and kissing her soundly. 

"Leo, stop," the woman giggled, pushing him away. 

"Come on, baby, don't be like that," he purred, pulling her close again. 

"Leo, no ... you're drunk," she protested, but he could tell she was enjoying the attention. 

"So are you," he countered, his lips scaling down her neck. 

“I know,” she snickered. “Do you remember my name?” Leo pulled away and looked at her. She was gorgeous, and he couldn’t help but smile. 

"Of course, I do," he lied, "but maybe you can refresh my memory?" 

She laughed and shook her head. "It's Ashley." 

"Ashley," Leo repeated, tasting the name on his lips. "I like that." 

"I bet you say that to all the girls," she teased. 

"No, no ... only the beautiful ones," he replied, his words slurring slightly. 

Ashley laughed, "hey, stop .... your phone is vibrating!"

Leo grabbed the phone from his pocket and squinted at the screen. 

"It's a text from my brother. It says, 'we need to talk.’” 

Concerned, Leo called Liam back at once, disentangling Ashley's arms from his neck. 

"What is it, Li? Are you alright?" Leo's voice was laced with worry. 

"I'm fine, but I have news." Liam's tone was calm, which confused and intrigued Leo. 

"What's going on, Liam?" Leo asked, his concern growing. 

"Riley and I... well, I just met my son."

After a moment of silence ... 

"You...you have a son?" Leo repeated, his eyes widening in shock. 

"Yes. William. Riley's son. Our son." 

Leo ran his hand through his hair and looked around the room, his mind racing. 

"Are you there, Leo?" Liam asked, breaking the silence. 

"Yeah, sorry. This is just a lot to take in." 

"I know. I'll explain everything later. I will be staying here with Riley, for now. I need you to take care of a few things for me." 

"Sure, Liam. Anything," Leo agreed. “But I need all the deets, asap.” 

"Thank you. And Leo, keep this quiet. We don't need the press finding out about this." 

"Li.... what should I tell Olivia? The council? They are expecting you to attend the Five Kingdoms Festival opening ceremony next weekend." 

"That was scheduled months ago. That was then. This is now. Things change." 

"You got it, Liam. Talk to you soon." 

Leo ended the call and stared at his phone, still trying to wrap his head around his brother's news. He looked up to find Ashley slipping out the door. Sighing, Leo poured scotch into a crystal tumbler and switched on the television. 

 Brooklyn Heights, New York City 

The sun's rays were streaming through the patio doors of the kitchen as Daniel scooped three teaspoons of sugar into his black coffee. Matteo quickly kissed him goodbye before heading out the door as William climbed up on his toddler chair with his train car. 

"So, buddy, what would you like for breakfast?" 

"I'm hungery, Dan Dan."  

Grinning, Daniel poured apple juice into a sippy cup, "you are? Hmmm. I'm thinking french toast with berries and syrup.” 

William's face lit up, and he clapped his hands excitedly. "Yummy!" 

"You got it, kid," Daniel chuckled, pulling out a pan and the ingredients. 

Liam walked into the kitchen as Daniel's eyes widened in surprise. "Your Majesty, good morning." 

"Good morning, Daniel. I think it's time you started calling me Liam. No need for formalities." 

"And good morning to you William." Liam smiled affectionately, turning his attention to his son. 

William looked up to the tall man, shyly, "Hi". 

"Okay, Liam. Can I get you anything to eat or drink?" 

"Just a cup of coffee, please." 

Daniel poured the King a cup as Liam sat down at the table; already knowing that Liam had come to reunite with Riley yesterday evening. 

William was watching Liam closely and offered to share his toy train.

"For me? Thank you." William smiled and pointed at his breakfast. 

"Dan Dan made me it."  

"Is that so? It looks delicious. Do you mind if I have some too?" 

William giggled, "okay." 

"Dan, could you please make me a plate as well?" 

Daniel nodded, "absolutely. Coming right up." 

"Thank you.”  

“So, William, I see you like trains?" 

"Yes! And puppies.” 

"Wow, you really do like a lot of things." 

William grinned, taking a sip of his juice. 

"You and I have a lot in common. I love trains, too. And... puppies.” Liam smiled. 

William grinned, "you're funny, Mr. Liam." 

"You think so? I'm glad you think so, William. You know, I've always loved trains, even when I was a little boy. Would you like to hear a story about a train I rode on once?" 

William's eyes widened in delight. "I like stories.” 

"Okay, here goes," Liam said, taking a bite of his food. "One day, when I was about your age, my father and I were traveling across the country, and we decided to take the train instead of our usual car. It was a very big train, with many cars, and we had to ride in a special car just for us." 

"Wow!" William exclaimed; his eyes wide with wonder. 

"We rode that train for hours and hours, and we stopped in many different towns and cities. Each one was more beautiful than the last. But then, something strange happened." 

"Oh," William asked, his face a mixture of fear and curiosity. 

"We got stuck. The train stopped working, and we were stranded. It was a very scary situation. We were all alone, with no one to help us. We had no idea what to do. But then, something amazing happened." 

"What? What happened?" 

Liam leaned in and whispered conspiratorially, "a magic train came along and rescued us. It was like something out of a fairy tale." 

"Wow," William breathed, eyes wide.

"Yes, it was quite incredible. We were all safe, and the train took us the rest of the way. But it was an adventure I will never forget." 

"Wow," William breathed in awe. 

Leaning against the doorframe, Riley looked at the two, smiling as she took in the scene before her. 

"Good morning, everyone," she announced brightly. 

"Good morning, Riley," Liam replied, standing up to greet her, kissing her cheek. 

William's eyes widened, "Mama, look, Mr. Liam told me a story." 

Riley grinned, ruffling her son's hair, taking the seat next to William. 

"LiLi, this man …” Riley reached across the table and squeezed Liam’s hand. 

“... is your Daddy."  

"Daddy? My daddy?" William turned and looked up at his father, eyes wide, filled with wonder. 

"Yes, I am," Liam softly replied; overcome with emotion. 

Liam stood and knelt, meeting his son's eyes. "I've been away for a while, but I'm here now, and I want to be part of your life, if you'll have me."

William smiled, wrapping his arms around Liam's neck. “My Daddy.” 

Liam's heart swelled as he embraced his son.

"And Mama, too?" William asked.

"Of course, and Mama too." Liam looked at Riley lovingly.

Thanks for reading!

📌All fics & edits: @ao719 @txemrn @queenmiarys @sfb123 @twinkleallnight @alj4890 @differenttyphoonwerewolf @harleybeaumont @busywoman @karahalloway @kingliam2019 @imjusthereforliam @lovingchoices14 @kyra75 @tinkie1973 @emkay512 @malblk21 @kristinamae093 @charlotteg234

📌TRR/TRF Liam & Riley: @irisk12 , @walkerdrakewalker @thesvnsins @jared2612

📌Turning the Page: @emersyn-in-cordonia @mainstreetreader @belencha77 @iluaaa @mysticalfangirl @queenwalton @bascmve01 @umccall71 @choicesfrog @amandablink

Arielle stood in the aisle, squinting at the snowglobe she was holding in her hands, turning it around and inspecting it as if it were an otherworldly object.

"Hmm, not sure about this one. Hey, Hayden, what do you think?"

She turned to the man beside her and held up the snowglobe to offer him a view. Hayden put down the nutcracker he was looking at, and took the snowglobe from Arielle, chuckling as he did so.

"I'm pretty sure this is the seventh snowglobe you've shown me since we came in here. Have you even looked at anything else?"

Arielle crossed her arms defensively. "Of course I have!"

"Like…?"

"Like…" she paused, finding herself at a loss.

"A lot of things, okay? You just didn't see. Now, please tell me if you think this snowglobe is cute enough to be in our living room or not."

Hayden shook his head in amusement, then gently plucked it from her hands, and placed it into their shopping cart.

"I think it's perfect. Now, come on, let's move on from the snowglobes before you give yourself an aneurysm, alright?" He teased, lightly bumping her shoulder with his.

She sighed, "Alright. Fine. I just… want everything to look splendid, you know? After all, this will be our first official Christmas together."

"And I am very much looking forward to it," he leaned over and planted a loving kiss to her lips. "You have nothing to worry about, believe me. With all the goodies we got already, our place is gonna look like the very definition of Christmas!"

Hayden suddenly paused, a thoughtful look gracing his features. "Although, I guess technically this is going to be my first Christmas in general, considering…" He trailed off, his expression slightly falling.

Arielle immediately knew what he was talking about.

"Honey, come on, let's try not to think about that. The important thing is that I'm going to be with you, we're going to be together, and so will all of our friends too. That's what really matters."

Hayden was silent for a moment, then he nodded. "Yeah. Yeah, you're right. I'm sorry for being such a downer. The most important thing is the here and now."

Arielle nodded. "Exactly. So, right now, let's continue looking for that giant nutcracker you kept pestering me about. Even though I still think it's going to look weird next to the Christmas tree."

"Hey! I'll have you know, I'm the master decorator! I know what I'm doing, thank you very much."

She laughed. "I'm sure you do. Now, come on, let's keep looking."

As they walked throughout the store,  they picked up various decorations along the way, slowly filling their cart to the brim with Christmas adornments. They continued searching the aisles until they finally found the aforementioned nutcracker, which Hayden effortlessly picked up and placed onto their cart.

"..And, that should be all! I think we've gotten everything on the list." Hayden grinned as he looked down at the nearly bursting cart.

"You sure about that, honey? Because I think we're missing something very important." Arielle purred, suddenly holding up a mistletoe.

Hayden raised a brow. "Oh, yeah? I wasn't aware that was on the list. Not that I'm complaining."

She simply smiled at him, then raised it above her head, and feigned a look of surprise. "Look, there’s mistletoe! We have to kiss, it’s the law."

He laughed. "Oh, it's the law now, is it?"

"Yes, it is. Now, come over here, handsome." She beckoned him with a finger.

"As you wish, my lady."

He wiggled his eyebrows as he walked towards her, grabbing her by the hips, and pulling her close. Their lips crashed together passionately as soon as their bodies collided.

Arielle responded immediately, wrapping her arms around his neck as she deepened the kiss. Once they broke apart, they pressed their foreheads together and softly gazed into each other's eyes.

Hayden smiled, "I'm so thankful for you."

She smiled back at him, and gave him one last kiss. "I feel the same way. I love you, Hayden."

"And I love you, Arielle. More than anything."

“To be honest, I'm not sure yet. But I will discuss it with Madeleine, since she is open to compromise, and make a statement when the time is right.”

Maxwell nodded, and turned his attention to Rayne. “And you, blossom? are you returning as well?” He sounded a little forlorn at the prospect.

“I could,” Rayne said, glancing at Liam, “but as I discussed with Liam last night it might be better to lay low for a while.”

“It would give me the chance to lay the groundwork for your return.” Liam reached for one of her hands, taking it in both of his. The way he gently squeezed was enough to communicate how much he wanted her to be there with him. Rayne held his gaze, then looked to Maxwell.

“I was hoping I could stay here until then.”

Maxwell looked surprised, then smiled warmly. “Absolutely you can! We will have so much fun… we can go riding and to the sauna and for runs together and…” he paused at Rayne’s bemused smile, and continued a little sheepishly. “I mean we can relax and watch movies and go for reasonable length walks…”

“I would love all those things, Max.” Rayne grinned. “But maybe we can start with the movies and walks.”

“I'll contact your doctor,” Liam noted, “see if she could be persuaded to make a house call. Everything discreet, of course.” Rayne had seen this doctor a few times whilst in Cordonia at Liam's recommendation and approved of her.

“So this is all a secret for now then?” Maxwell queried.

“Yes,” Liam answered, squeezing Rayne's hand again and releasing her. “For now at least, this news doesn't leave this household.”

— —

The sky was overcast as Rayne and Maxwell left the Beaumont estate several weeks after the decision to stay. Nerves built inside her as they climbed into the back of the SUV sent to collect them and approached the open gates of the estate. The car was silent for a few minutes, and Rayne focused on the outlines of the trees and vines bordering the gravel road.

“I left a charger cable in my room.” Maxwell sighed. She turned to him.

“At home?”

“No, at the palace. I'm looking forward to getting it back.”

Rayne smiled, breaking some of the tension in her face. “Don't you have other chargers?”

He shrugged. “Technically yes, but this one's my favourite.” The words were followed by a wide grin that made her laugh.

“Glad you can finally get it back then,” she remarked fondly, and turned back to the window. It was starting to rain now, gently, but it was predicted to get heavier as they approached the city.

“I hope I have the same room…” Maxwell commented. As he had previously assured her they would have the same rooms, Rayne didn't respond, but thinking of the rooms inevitably led back to thoughts of Liam.

Her hand subconsciously moved to her belly, which now was aligned with her breasts. The last time the doctor had visited had been the most surprising, but made the most sense. At ten weeks, her baby should not be showing so much - but twins did.

Twins were not uncommon in Rayne's family, she'd had a twin sibling, but it didn't make the prospect any less terrifying. Having one life growing inside her for the first time was enough, but she was still reckoning with the idea of two.

A loose shirt and open coat would do little to hide the reality from prying eyes, so she was not looking forward to her hospital visit…

“Liam will be there.” Maxwell's voice cut through Rayne's reflections. She turned to him. “He will make sure everything goes smoothly. You'll be okay, blossom. No need to be stressed.” His eyes flitted to where her hand trembled against her belly as if in recognition of her nerves. She let her hand fall, and he reached for it.

“I know,” Rayne muttered. And she did, but it didn't take away all her anxiety.

Maxwell squeezed her hand to bring her focus back to him. “There is no benefit in worrying about would could happen or what people might think. You have a lot of good people to support you, my wonderful self included, and we will all make sure that you are safe and comfortable.”

Rayne felt tears prick her eyes, smiling at the unusual earnestness from her jovial friend. After a moment holding his gaze, she nodded.

“I know,” she said again, “thank you, Maxwell.”

“Any time.” He smiled, releasing her hand, and they fell into an easier quiet. Rain pattered on the roof and windows of the car, they exited the gravel drive onto a sealed road, and she reflected on the words he had used. Maxwell was more intelligent than he was given credit for, but he spoke in simpler sentiments.

“Liam told you to say that, didn't he?”

He frowned, the shrugged. “He suggested I be more openly supportive - me being so much a master of subtlety and all - but I didn't need to know how to comfort one of my best friends, particularly given I've technically spent more time with you over the years than his royalness.”

“True, very true,” Rayne conceded, hiding a smirk and turning back to the road. “Especially during the hard times. And more recently whilst I've been… well…”

“Finally appreciating the excellence of my company?” Maxwell finished for her.

“Sure.” Rayne turned back to his wide smile. “And hugs. I appreciate your hugs.”

Several instances passed through her mind of Maxwell holding her. As she wept; as she sat nauseous beside the toilet; as she fell into him barely able to breathe; as she expressed just how much her heart ached, how much she wished Liam were with her, and things had turned out differently…

Eventually Rayne fell into a restless doze. She imagined reuniting with Liam and it brought her comfort. He had visited, once, a few weeks before. She had tried to be composed through the hormonal shifts but he had found her mostly short tempered. She hadn't properly said goodbye. There were some things she regretted saying, and she imagined having to resolve some tension before even entering the palace. Her new home.

— —

“Rayne.” A voice broke through her reverie, and a nudge of her shoulder. “Rayne, are you awake?”

“Nng,” she responded, less coherent than intended. She tried again. “Yes.”

“Good.” It was Maxwell's voice. “We're almost there.”

Rayne registered the thick rain and slow movement of the car over more gravel and lifted her head to see out, wiping drool from her chin and sleep from her eyes. Her back and neck ached from the awkward angle and she resolved once again never to sleep in a car.

“You can finally get your phone charger cable,” she remarked, watching the palace as they approached. Maxwell laughed.

“My whole reason for accompanying you is complete!” The lightness in his voice made her smile, despite the growing nerves.

“I hope you can stay for a while though,” she said, “I'll miss your company.”

Maxwell reached for her hand again. “Don't worry blossom, I'll make sure you're all set up before leaving. And you know how to reach me after that.” He looked up past Rayne, then, and grinned. “Welcome home.”

Rayne turned to see the palace slide out of view past some tall hedges. Her palms were sweaty and her chest tight, then the hedges opened out to reveal a familiar figure waiting under cover by the entrance, and her heart leapt.

— —

Liam waited by the door with Drake and two of the palace staff, rocking back and forth on the balls of his feet with an umbrella in hand as they watched the SUV approach. It moved so slowly, but the time was finally nearing when he would see her again, and see her every day from now on.

“Bit excited there, Li?” Drake teased from just behind him. It only made Liam smile wider. His heart thumped in his chest and he stood so close to the edge of the portico that some of the rain began to reach him.

“Absolutely,” Liam responded, unphased. The car was so close he thought he could make out Rayne’s face through the tinted glass. It pulled up alongside the palace, and he leapt into action with his now open umbrella. She always sat on the right side, so he opened that door just as she reached for the handle, and there she was.

“Liam,” she breathed, wide eyed as he met her gaze. How was she even more beautiful than he remembered?

“Welcome home, love,” he managed after a few moments, holding the umbrella above them both with his other hand out to help her up. As she stood, he breathed in her scent, and all the tension in his body and mind relaxed. “I missed you.”

Rayne looked up at him as he closed the car door behind her. She opened her mouth to speak, closed it again, and wrapped her arms around him for the first time in too long. He held her in the rain on the gravel driveway, holding the umbrella above them in one hand, heedless of the staff and friends moving around them.

“I missed you too,” Rayne mumbled into his chest, and held him tighter. Liam kept his touch gentle, not wanting to strain her, and after a while he pulled back and moved a loose curl away from her face. She sniffed, wiping her face with a coat sleeve, and started to apologise for her appearance. Liam shook his head to halt her.

“I wish you could see yourself the way I see you,” he said, smiling softly, “there is nothing and no one else so perfect in this world.”

-----

"Is he there on an official tour or…"

"He came to meet me, meet us." 

"Does he know?" 

"He knows everything." Savannah sighed. 

"Oh dear! Is he going to… I mean what is he planning?" 

"He came to clear the misunderstandings, Mom." 

"Savvie, we knew this would happen one day. Thankfully, he is not here to do any harm." 

"But mom, what if…" 

"You need to give him a chance, my child. You know he is not any regular guy." 

"It's not about him. It's about me, what If I'm not…" 

"Savannah Jane Walker, never ever think less about you. Don't be so harsh on yourself. I know it's a tough decision but I believe in you and I trust that you will take a wise step."

Savannah whispered over a sob, "Thank you mom."

Bianca picked up her deflated tone, "Hey girl, don't cry. Don't be afraid. You are not alone.

Whatever you decide, I will be with you." 

"I know mom. You have always been. I have to go now. Will call you later." 

"Bye sweetheart. God bless you." 

Savannah gave an assertive reply and ended the call. 

Her hand was still clutching the phone while Bianca's eyes were fixed far away in the distance… Memories of yesteryears replaying in front of her eyes. 

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

Few years ago…..

It was a busy day at the ranch. Bianca was tending to a filly in the stables when John came in search of her. "There you are! You gotcha mail." He waved a white envelope in the air.

"Mail?" Blanca wondered. She had all her bills cleared. There should not be any new notice from any of the banks now. She rubbed away the dirt on her hands on the sides of her apron and extended her arm to grab the envelope with a feeling of dread. 

"Thank you John." She flipped the cover to find out from whom it was, but the sender information was blank. 

John still stood there, curiously eyeing the mail. She tore the envelope trying to curb her own anxiety. When she saw Savannah's neat handwriting, she let out a sigh of relief. "It's from Savannah." She waved of her hand, making it light to John. 

He too smiled and took her leave. She stood there with a smile plastered on her face. As soon as he went out of sight, Bianca rushed into her home. She was restless and this letter might give her some clue. Savannah had been out of reach for the past few days. Her phone wasn't working. Bastein had no clue where she was and it had left Bianca biting her nails. 

She sat on her bed and withdrew her reading glasses from the rustic bedside drawer. 

" Dear Mom, 

I know you must be worried about my whereabouts. Please be assured that I am absolutely fine and safe and I will call you soon.

Mom, you were right in guessing the reason for my happiness in the last few months. Well, you have always been right.  I did finally feel complete with the man of my dreams. I thought maybe one day I will be able to tell you everything. 

Even after Drake left Cordonia, I never felt alone.  There was this man… I have always liked him. Two months ago, a small accident brought us closer and then one day I couldn't stop myself and we broke all the barriers to be together. I was happy and that's when you too picked the signs . You were right mom. 

But I guess Walker's are never meant to live an easy life. I don't know how to say this. It's a bit awkward to tell you all of this through a letter. I conceived, Mom. I wanted to tell him first, but things took a nasty turn here and I couldn't let him know. Moreover, he is kind of from a noble family so he cannot take the responsibility. My presence here will be a deterrent to his duties and so to make things easier for everyone, I decided to leave Cordonia forever. Maybe there’s another universe where we have the happy ending we always wanted.

I am sorry if I let you down but I still want to say this to you that you are the best and I am missing you even more at this turning point of my life. I am in a bit of Hurry now but I promise I will call you as soon as I reach my destination. 

I love you, Mom.

Your daughter, 

Savvie. 

Bianca removed her glasses to wipe the tears in her eyes. "My little girl!" She held the letter to her heart. " I am so sorry you have to go through all these things alone." 

As she cried, her eyes rested on the bedside photo frame of them together. She picked it up and looked at Savannah and said. "My baby, I knew it from the beginning. I wish I had warned you to keep your feelings for him locked inside. It's impossible to not fall in love with him, my child but he is a royal. There is no future there, at least not under Constantine's watch." 

She closed her eyes praying, "Dear God, please help my children. Help Savannah and Liam to find their path together." 

Liam always held a special place in Bianca's heart. As a young boy, he had shown compassion and love to one and all, be it noble or commoner. He never differentiated, even when he grew up to be a crown prince. He was the reason for Drake's stability after Jackson's death. He always stole her heart when he covered up for Savannah with his innocent smile. Many such moments made her believe Liam to be an extended part of her family. She knew Savvie and Liam would be together one day but she never thought their relationship would be so short lived. 

She tried to get over her wavering mind and continued praying, " God, please give me the strength to support my daughter through her difficult times till she gets back to him." 

And so the years passed on while Bianca remained hopeful for that day to arise when her prayers would be answered. 

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

Present day....

Bianca smiled wistfully. She kept the phone back on the table and reclined in her bed. "Thank you my lord, It's finally over. My children are going to unite again." 

She got up and opened the side drawers to retrieve a photo frame. She placed Liam's photo next to Savannah'sphoto that was already there and gave them a flying kiss. "God bless you both." 

Bianca stood as a pillar in Savannah's life in the years she lived estranged. It was all worth it in the end. 

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

Next chapter

"Beloved...you should return to your village."

"What?" You bolt upright. Kieran is gazing at you with a strange absence of emotion as you blink away the drowsiness that had begun to descend over you. There's something deadened in his shadowy eyes, twin pits of empty anguish, and for a horrible moment you're reminded of the heartless, cursed prince he once was. An ice-cold knife of fear slides painfully into your chest. "Now? But why? Has something happened?"

"Something has already happened," he says, voice heavy. "And I was powerless to stop it. The palace is no longer safe for you. This realm is not safe.”

"This realm was never “safe” for me. And the palace isn't safe for you either!" You pull yourself to sitting. He's sitting on the edge of your bed, already fully dressed, a sword in a shiny black leather scabbard at his side, a new addition since last night. He's never carried a physical weapon since you've known him, but he must have decided to pick up the sword now. You shudder in apprehension. “Kieran, what are you saying?”

His expression doesn't change, and you know the look in his eyes: he's made his decision, accepted his fate, and will brook no argument. "Jack will keep coming after me until one of us is dead. But if you return home to your mortal life, you at least may escape his wrath. He has no reason to chase you if you’re no longer my consort. Whatever's to come...this need not be your fate."

You stare at him in horror. “I’m not leaving you.”

Kieran’s face is a carefully constructed mask devoid of emotion. “I’ve made my decision.”

“I won’t do it!”

“You will, beloved. If you love me, you will go without argument. Fight me, if you must, but you will not win. Either way, I am taking you home. Today.”

Your heart races, fear and grief and anger rising in one horrible wave. Would he truly do this? He’s right; you couldn’t win against him if he made up his mind to deliver you back to your village and leave you there. For your own good. 

For a horrifying moment, you see your future: withering away the short years of your life, back where you started from, and away from everyone and everything left that you love. Never to return to the Fae realm. 

Banished.

Tears well in your eyes and you swallow them down.

"You're giving up," you accuse, eyes narrowed.

"Never." Kieran's eyes blaze in response, his power flaring in a way that chills you. "You, of anyone, should know that I would sooner tear my heart from my chest than send you away. But if it may save you, beloved, I will do anything. I would rather lose you to the mortal realm, where you may at least live out a full and peaceful life, than have you die in my arms because I could not protect you.”

Kieran's voice shakes, and you realize suddenly he has already pictured this. Whether from old age or Jack's blade...this is his greatest fear. This man who was betrayed by a lover, lost his father as a child and witnessed his mother torn to shreds before his eyes cannot bear to witness the death of the last person left that he loves.

He knows you will die before him. He's always known. But he thought you had more time. And he doesn't believe himself strong enough to witness it happen so soon, not like this.

“I can’t,” you whisper. "I'm not leaving you. How could you ask that?" A shiver of fear runs through you. "If I return home without you...Kieran, there's no knowing how many years of my life I'll spend wasting away, waiting for you. Even if you defeat Jack, that's precious time we'll never get back.”

You expect anger at this defiance to your prince's orders. You don't expect what happens instead.

The cold stoic expression breaks, allowing you to glimpse the rare welling of anguish in his eyes, and you realize he understands exactly what he's asking. He knows that if you leave the mortal realm, you will begin to age faster. Years will pass for you and mere moments for him every second you're apart.

He knows this. He's willing to sacrifice life with you so that you may have a chance to live.

Whether you stay or go, he will lose you.

His large, powerful hands grip yours hard, engulfing them in bony strength. "Please, my love. I beg of you...I'm not strong enough to keep you safe. I won't allow my pride to be your downfall. You must go home. Now."

"I am home," you answer fiercely, clutching him back. "You can't truly think I would ever leave you.”

He scowls as his anguish turns to anger.  "You will if I order it. Do not argue with me. Not now. Please.”

You're half furious, half terrified. Kieran's anger stems from fear; you know this. You are the only one who could ever talk Kieran down when he's made up his mind, but…this may be beyond even you. “How can you ask me to leave you now?” You whisper brokenly. “How can I leave my heart behind?”

Kieran swallows. His hands shake, then he sets his jaw with determined stubbornness. “If you love me at all, spare me the knowledge that you died because of my own weakness. I can't live knowing I failed you."

Tears fall from your eyes freely now, hot tracks down your cheeks. It feels wrong, so very wrong, to even consider leaving him. You make your decision. “No, Kieran. Even if you take me back to the village, I'll only return to you.”

Kieran glares at you and the power in him channels in full force, waves of freezing cold anger at your defiance. “I won’t allow it. I will spend my last breaths keeping you safe, if I must. Do you think I haven’t considered this from every angle? Do you think I would readily or easily admit I’m too weak to defend you from our enemies? I cannot protect you. We have no choice.”

“You told me the choice would always be mine,” you snap back. “If I am to die, then I will die with you, and we’ll return to the wind together. That is my wish. You are my fate. I don’t want a long peaceful life alone in my village! There is no life for me without you. "

Kieran’s breath escapes him in a shuddering exhale, and his emotionless facade shatters. He covers his face with his hands and doesn’t answer.

“Please, my love, please don't lose heart,” you urge, voice breaking. “I know it’s so hard to see the light. Your life has been a string of tragedies, and I understand why you can’t see any reason to hope. But I refuse to believe this is how our story ends. I won't allow it.” 

You wrap him in your arms and feel how much he’s shaking trying to keep everything inside, and squeeze him for all you’re worth as if you could steady his doubts through sheer force of will. 

“We beat the odds before,” you remind him, gentling your voice.

“I’m not willing to gamble with your life,” Kieran replies bitterly. 

“My love," you cajole. "We’ll find a way through this. We’re stronger together. Believe in me, if you can’t see anything else to hold on to. Bet on us.”

You rub his back, slowly, mindful of his healing wounds. For a long moment there is silence.

“There’s that steadfast optimism in the face of impossible odds again,” Kieran finally mutters, defeated. "Are all mortals as stubborn as you?"

You muffle laughter into his shoulder, sensing the tide turning in your favor. “It’s worked for me so far. I believe I recall you saying something about winning you over with just such a trait.”

Kieran just looks at you for a long while. Multiple emotions pass across his face. Hope, despair, admiration, frustration, tenderness…love. 

Then his eyes slide closed and he tilts your head to kiss you, tentative and fragile, and you know you have won. At least this time.

“Are you certain?” is all he asks. His voice is a whisper, his eyes still closed as he holds you, fingers stroking lightly over your hair.

“With all my heart,” you answer, holding him tight. "You aren't facing this alone. You'll never be alone again, Kieran. I'm here with you. I'm right where I belong."

You feel Kieran's change of heart as surely as if you still held a piece of it in your own chest; his iron will melts and his rigid body finally relaxes in your arms, taking the comfort you offer at long last. He buries his face in your shoulder and holds you as though he never plans to let go.

"Damn it," he mutters, then sighs, and you feel his power wrap around you like wings, protective and loving. "It took all my willpower to order you away. And somehow, you have outdone me, once again."