#otwt

Chapter 10 part II  

A nightmare is born

********Applewood*****

Anton continued to watch Jilian from the shadows.  He wanted nothing more than to go over and hold her like he did the night he confessed his feelings to her.

On the train car.

***Train Car****

“Jilian, I’m...I’m sorry.  I-,”  Justin was halted mid-sentence when he saw Jilian raise her hand to stop him.

Standing at the door with her back to him, Jilian sniffled, “I think you should leave.”

Lowering her head into her hands, she continued, “I’m sorry I led you on.  I’m… I was …” she stammered as her tears flowed harder.  Drawing in a shaky breath, she managed to say “I.love.him.”, before crumpling to the floor, cradling her face in her hands.

Justin immediately dropped to his knees, reaching over to hold her in his arms.  At first Jilian resisted his touch, but as he began to stroke her hair, running his hand down and up her back;  he could feel her body relax into his.   

 Although he wanted Jilian, Justin knew the last thing she needed was an intimate rendezvous.

“C’mon, let’s get you out of the doorway and into bed,” he whispered.

Jilian clung to Justin as if her life depended on his.  She slowly made her way over to her bed and climbed in; grabbing her pillow to hold as she buried her face into it.  Sobbing uncontrollably, curling her body up into a fetal position.

Standing at the edge of her bed, watching her body shake as she took in  shaky breath after shaky breath, Justin quietly slipped off his shoes and climbed into the bed, curling his body up behind hers.  

 Pulling her body securely to his.  Justin wrapped his fit arms around Jilian’s waist; all while kissing the back of her head.  “I know this may not be the best time, but I’m truly sorry for how things turned out with you and the King.  But I stand by my decision…. to leave Cordonia,  to be with you.”

****Present Day Applewood****

Taking a few steps forward towards Jilian’s cell, Anton quickly stopped himself from attempting to comfort her again.  Shaking his head, Justin whispered “not again”, as he turned to walk away from the sound of Jilian’s sniveling whimpers.  Making the decision to go find his father, so that they could go over plan B.

****Valtoria*****

Drake and Olivia continued to listen while Bastien pointed out 2 unseen entry ways into Applewood that weren’t shown on the blueprint.  

“Right here,” Bastien pointed, “is a cellar door that leads into one of the holding cells.  Now, if we position a man here we can send them in one by one.”

Drake was hesitant about cutting Bastien off, but he knew it was something that had to be done.  Clearing his throat, Drake placed his hand on top of Bastien’s; causing him to stop and look up at him.

“Bas, uhmmm Thank you for showing us this, but I don’t think it’s a good idea for you to join in on this one.”

Remembering Liam’s words and actions from earlier, Bastien just nodded and took a step back.  Placing his hands into his blazer pockets, before turning to walk back around the corner of the common area, going back into the foyer. 

“Damn, that was awkward as hell,” Drake uttered under his breath.  “Maybe I should go out to see if Li has calmed down enough to hear Bas’s plan out,” he continued while gathering the blueprints and his phone.   “At this point, we need all the help we can get.”  

Olivia slightly tilted her head to the left, signaling that she agreed with what Drake proposed, until she remembered that Leo and Liam weren’t outside anymore.

“Walker,” Liv called out.  “Before you go outside, there’s something you need to know.”

*****Present day Applewood*****

Still sitting on her cot with her knees pulled up to her chest and her arms wrapped tightly around her legs.  Jilian thought back to the night Tariq was found.  The shocked look he had on his face when he saw her standing on the opposite side of his door.  

The confessions he made when he realized he was caught.  

Remembering the pain and agony he put her through, Jilian released her legs and quickly swung them over the edge of her cot.  Taking in a deep breath as she stood up, drying her eyes with the backs of her hands mumbling  “this ends now.”

******Present day Valtoria******

“What?!?”  Drake shouted as he shoved his hands in his hair.  “What the Hell, Liv.  Why on Earth would you allow the King and the Prince of Cordonia to go on a suicide rescue mission with no back up?”

Taking a few steps back towards her, Drake sighed.  “This shit keeps getting worse.”

Olivia felt compelled to explain to Drake what happened, but knew there wasn’t enough time.  “I tried to talk some sense into those two, but they weren’t listening.”

“Obviously.”

“Look Walker, we could stand here and go back and forth, but we don’t have that kind of time,”  Olivia retorted. “Now you have two choices.  You can stand here and brood over the Rys brothers leaving or you can plan your next step?”  

Knowing that Olivia was right, Drake ran his hands down his face, as he exhaled.  Every second counted as he stood there debating what he should do next.

“How long have they been gone?”

Liv rolled her eyes up as she contemplated the length of time that may have passed since Leo and Liam left,  “15, maybe 20 minutes.”

“OK.  Knowing Leo they probably took Jadranska cesta.  I need to call Li.” Drake instantly reached for his phone, when Liv handed him hers.

“Here.  It’s ringing”.

“Thanks,” was his reply as he heard Leo’s voice coming in.

“Hey gorgeous,” Leo greeted thinking it was Olivia calling him.  “Let me guess, the newly appointed head of guard has figured out that we’re gone.”  

“Yeah, I have….Gorgeous.”  Drake grumbled as he gripped Olivia’s phone tighter.

“Shit. Hey Drake ol’ buddy.” Leo sanged.  “What’s up?”

“Cut the crap Leo.  What the hell are you trying to do, get Liam killed?”  Drake snapped.

Leo suddenly became quiet.  Rolling his eyes as he listened to Drake rant and rave over how stupid and irresponsible he was being with the King.

“Drake.  I know.”  I know, he whispered.  Continuing on, “I know this is irresponsible, but Liam wouldn’t be in this position if I wouldn’t have abdicated.  None of this would have hap-.”    

“Leo!”  Drake shouted.  “Has it ever occurred to you that if you hadn’t abdicated, Li wouldn’t have ever met the love of his life, nor would he have his precious baby girl.”

Leo remained quiet as Drake continued on.  

“Look, you can’t change the past.  So stop trying!”

Realizing that he had Leo’s full attention, Drake ran his hand over the back of his neck, in an attempt to calm himself down and try to look at the situation from Leo’s side.

“Look, if the roles were reversed I…,” Drake stammered.  “I would try everything I knew to help my brother rescue his family as well.  But Leo, this…this is stupid.”

Drake took a moment to step outside the ornate doors of Valtoria, before he continued.

“Where are you two now?”

“We just stopped in Republic Square, less than 5 minutes ago,”  Leo added.

“Do you two have a plan?”  Drake asked.

“No.”  Leo replied, before taking a moment to think. “Well, actually yes.  We’re planning on going to Applewood, and saving Jilian and Lily.”

“For crap sake Leo, what the fuck!”  Drake could feel his blood rushing to his brain. “THAT’S NOT A GOTDAMN PLAN!”

“According to who? The newly appointed Head of guard.” Leo questioned.

Drake could feel himself losing his cool with Leo’s antics. “Leo!”  He snapped as he quickly turned to make his way back through the ornate doors that led into Valotoria’s foyer.  “Stay there….and Don’t Move,” he sneered. “We’re on our way,” before hanging up the phone.

Making his way through Valtoria’s foyer, Drake motioned for the team of guardsmen, Olivia, and Bastien to gather around, as he told them the whereabouts of the King and Prince.  

Handing Olivia back her phone, Drake continued to recap the fastest routes to get to Republic Square. 

“Jadranska cesta would be the most obvious route-,” 

“Sir”, one of the guardsmen stated while holding his hand up, “if I may suggest something,” he commented.  “I think we should take a different route from what King Liam and Prince Leo took. By chance, do we know which route they took?”

Drake was quiet for a moment before answering the young guardsman. 

“No, unfortunately I didn’t get a chance to ask him which route they took.”

As Drake continued to recap, Olivia remembered that her and Leo shared a tracking app.  

“Drake, Leo and Liam took Jadranska cesta to Ul. od Srda.  At this time, they’re at the Villa Dorma off of Zagrebacka Ul.” Liv noted.

Everyone literally stopped what they were doing and stared at the Duchess.

“What are you all looking at!?!”  She voiced.  “We have GPS tracking on our phones.  For safety purposes, of course.”

Drake responded with a sarcastic tone, “Of Course.”

“Alright team, so it looks like we will take Jadranska cesta, but the first 2 cars will exit Ul. od Srda; while the last car will exit Gornji Kono.  Both roadways will lead into Zagrebacka Ul.”  Drake continued to explain, “by splitting up on the Cesta, we should be able to reach the backside of Republic Square undetected.”  

As the team continued to walk around the foyer, surveying one another's equipment, making sure everyone was prepped with the essentials necessary to pull off a rescue mission that could go either way; Drake stood in the same spot taking in his team in what would be some of their last mission.  

Realizing that he may be one of the many men to never return back, Hana quietly walked towards Drake. 

Feeling her presence behind him, he slowly turned around to only see her luminescent eyes staring up at him.

She was breathtaking.

“Hana….I was on my way bac-,” but before he could finish his sentence, Hana reached up and placed her hand on the nape of his neck, closing her eyes as she slowly brought Drake’s lips to hers.  Brushing her lips ever so gently against his.  

Giving in to his passion, Drake returned her kiss all while gripping her waist and pulling her body against his.  

Breaking apart from what felt like forever, Hana dropped her gaze to the floor, feeling ashamed of what she initiated; while a dazed and very delighted Drake struggled to regulate his breathing, heart rate, and thoughts.

“Drake, I’m…”hearing Hana’s voice quickly snapped Drake back into reality.  “I’m.. sorry.  I don’t know…I didn’t mean to-,” but before she could finish Drake placed his index finger and thumb underneath her chin so that he could admire those lovely eyes of hers again.  Taking in her beauty, he leaned in and met Hana’s lips again for a more passionate kiss, only stopping when they heard someone clear their throat.

Taking a step back, Drake looked over his shoulder to see who interrupted what he was trying to get started.

“Uh Sir, we’re ready when you are?”  The young guardsmen stated.

Nodding to the youngman, Drake reached out and grabbed Hana’s hand, leading her back into the Great Room.  As she took a seat placing her hands in her lap, Drake knelt down in front of her also placing his hands on top of hers.

Noticing how nicely their hands fit together, Drake rubbed his thumb over the top of Hana’s knuckles.  Relishing how soft and petite her hands were, he couldn’t help but to intertwine their fingers.  

Focusing his attention on her gentle features, Drake released a breath and spoke softly,  “Hana, I’m not going to…,” but before he could finish his sentence Hana placed her index finger over his lips, and whispered, “just make sure you and our friends come back safely.”

Dropping his gaze back down to their intertwined fingers, Drake whispered back, “I’ll try,” as he slowly released Hana’s fingers before standing.

Taking one last look at Hana, he thought to himself, I now have a reason to return, as he inhaled a slow breath and briefly closed his eyes.  

Making his way through the ornate doors of Valtoria, Drake stopped on the top step and glanced out at his team.  Everyone was standing around their assigned cars in the carriageway laughing and joking.  

Holding up his hand to grab everyone’s attention. “Alright men…and Olivia.  We need to make sure we do this fast and smart.  Everyone here knows what’s at stake.  Our goal is to secure the Queen and Princess, and make sure the Crown is protected at all cost.” 

The group of men and Olivia all nodded to show their agreeance.  Drake then finished by saying, “ OK, so with that being said let’s head out.”

As everyone proceeded to get into their cars, one young guardsman yelled out “FOR CORDONIA”; and everyone else followed suit.

“FOR CORDONIA!”

******Applewood******

Riley strolled through the halls of Applewood, feeling quite pleased with herself as she recalled her conversation with Jilian.

Well, looks to me that His Majesty should’ve listened with his ears and not his … well, you saw us together the night of the Gala. Apparently, I really “moved him” when I interviewed for the assistant position.”

Smiling to herself as she walked upon a set of large rustic style medieval doors that displayed the carvings of an apple orchard. Remembering the gloss of unshed tears in Jilian’s eyes, she shrugged off her guilt and mumbled “I shouldn’t take pleasure in making someone cry,” as she reached out to twist the crystal door knob with her left hand, while pushing the door open with her right hand, “ but I did enjoy watching it.”

Stepping through the doorway, Riley glanced from left to right, taking in the aura of elegance this room gave off.  Slowly closing the door behind her, she felt a little more at ease with herself and the actions she took to get to this moment.   

****** Republic Square********

The team made it to Republic Square faster than expected.  Drake briefed Liam and Leo on their plan to secure the Queen and Princess.  Once he finished he motioned for Bastien to explain how they will enter the cells of Applewood through a hidden passageway. 

As Bastien began to explain what he knew about the unseen entrance, Drake noticed how Liam’s jaw became tense and his fist clenched while Bastien continued to explain what he knew.  Gripping his friend’s shoulder twice, Liam immediately started to roll his neck and shoulders trying to relax.  

*********Applewood Cells*********

Walking over to the bars of the dimly lit cell, Jilian’s mind began to reel back to the UN Gala, the night Tariq confessed.  

***Landing in N.Y.***

“So Jilian, do you have any plans before the Gala?  You know, since we’re on your continent.”  Justin asked with a smirk and a wink as they were disembarking the Royal jet.

Jilian contemplated her answer as she searched for her large sunglasses in her crossbody bag; not realizing that they were resting on her head.  Continuing to search, she mumbled “where are my sunglasses?  I know I had them before we left.”  

Feeling Justin’s fingertips lightly graze her forehead, Jilian quickly snapped her head up, causing her sunglasses to fall perfectly on her nose. As they both laughed at the coincidence, Jilian noticed just how dangerously sexy Justin was.  The way his eyes twinkled when he smiled.

Nope, no ma’am.  Stop it now!  She thought as she looked at him a little differently. 

Still facing Justin, Jilian shook her head and responded  “No, not really.  I…uhmm I don’t know,” while shrugging her shoulders, “I’m guessing I would unpack, shower, and try to relax before the Gala. I really don’t have any definite plans other than that.”

Nodding to her response, Justin quickly gathered his things and fell in step with her as they prepared to step off the aircraft.

I’m so happy Max showed up when he did.

***California***

“Opening the door on the second knock, probably wasn’t a good idea?”, was the response Jilian gave to a wide eyed, shock riddled Tariq, as she stood in between Maxwell and Drake.  

“Wh-!?!  What are you doing here?  How did you find me?”  Were the words that escaped his lips as he tried to push the door shut with one hand while the other held tightly onto his robe.

Moving quickly, Drake placed his right hand against the door panel, while Max wedged his left foot in between the door and the door frame; giving Leo enough room to keep Tariq from closing his hotel door in Jilian’s face. 

“What, surprised to see me Tariq.  I guess you would be shocked, huh, seeing me  FULLY CLOTHED!”  Jilian’s voice rang out from between Drake and Maxwell as all 3 men pushed their way into Tariq’s hotel room with Jilian in tow.

After what seemed like forever, Tariq eventually caved in and no one was prepared for the shock and humiliation they were about to endure.  Hearing Tariq’s confession, confirming that he did not act alone, and finding out that he had additional help staying hidden made Jilian sick to her stomach.  Sitting on the couch with her head in her hands, all she could think about was getting back to New York as quickly as possible.

Thank God, they showed up when they did.

*******Hidden passageways of Applewood****

Anton walked through the dark, narrow passageways of Applewood.   Closing his eyes with every other step he took; trying to bury the pain he caused the woman he claimed to have loved.  

Anton scoffed as he dragged his fingers along the stones that were weathered and broken from years of silence and tortured hell.

I would have been able to really show her what real love really felt like…..

***Hours before UN Gala****

Justin stood outside Jilian’s hotel door dressed in his tuxedo, ready to escort her to the Gala.  Mustering up the courage to knock on the door, he couldn’t help but feel nervous.

“C’mon man, you got this.  Just knock.”

Releasing a breath, Justin knocked on the hotel door.

After 2 knocks, Jilian answered the door with furrowed brows, “Hey!”

“Hey,” Justin answered back.  “I was… wondering if you were ready to go to the Gala?  If so, I would love to escort you. I could even wait until you got ready?”

Leaning her head against the door stile, Jilian responded, “No, I’m not going,” she said with a shrug.  “I’m really not in the mood to be around everyone in the court, you know?”  

Stepping back a little more, giving Justin the Ok to enter; Jilian continued.  “I’ve told the ones that matter the most my plans to stay and not return back to Cordonia; and honestly I don’t feel the need to witness Madeleine fawning over Liam.”  Lowering her gaze from Justin to the floor, she continued.  “I think I’ve endured enough.  Don’t you?” 

Watching Jilian’s facial expression falter; Justin could feel the hurt and loneliness she experienced as her tone began to fade.   Stepping towards her, placing his thumb and index finger underneath her chin raising it up so that his gaze fell on hers,  he whispered “then we won’t go.  We can stay here, order room service, and relax.” 

At that moment, everything changed as Jilian raised up on her tiptoes and placed a slow, searing kiss upon Justin’s lips.   Releasing a faint moan, Justin took this as a cue to start something he’s been yearning for.

Reaching around and grasping the back of her head, Justin let his fingers tangle in her hair for a moment before cradling her head in his hand; deepening the kiss she started.  Pulling her body closer to his, as his tongue grazed her teeth as it slid past her lips.  As if a dam had broken, and the water was rushing to wipe out a tiny town, Justin’s tongue thrust into Jilian’s mouth.  Causing him to swallow the moan she elicited.  Colliding his tongue against hers as they twist and roll, trying to dominate the other with ferocious passion and desire.

Feeling Justin’s intensified passion for her, Jilian immediately started to explore his broad chest with her hands.  Massaging his pecks as she began to caress his hardened buds, before pushing his tuxedo jacket off his shoulders and onto the floor.  Dragging her fingers across his shoulders down to his pulsating biceps, and then back to his chest; Jilian could feel Justin’s heart hammering as she continued to run her fingers down to the waistband of his pants.  

Fisting his shirt in her hands, Jilian moaned as her fingers grazed his hot, bare skin.  Continuing to pull his shirt from the confines of his pants, she was determined to finish what she started. 

Breaking apart and breathing heavily, Justin’s eyes searched Jilian’s as he cupped her cheek for a brief moment before he asked “Jilian are you sure you want to do this, because I know I do.  And if we start this, I won’t stop until you’re mine.” 

Not responding to his question, Jilian quickly untied his bowtie and took the ends of it in both of her hands, pulling him in for another passionate kiss.  

As their tongues tangled and swirled around eachother, Jilian started to feel that familiar ache of desire throb at her core as Justin gripped her waist; pulling her hips closer to his.  Breaking away from their kiss, Jilian kept her eyes on his as she slowly pulled his bowtie from around his neck all while asking him if he wanted to join her for a shower.  

******Outside of Applewood****

“Alright team, let’s not forget the plan and what’s at stake,” was Drake’s words as they recapped their plan to rescue the Queen and Princess, and then take down SoE once and for all.

“Now, Team India will be led by Andreas.  You should enter Applewood Manor through the undercroft located here,” Drake referenced the blueprint he held that showed all entries into Applewood.

“Team Echo will be led by Bastien and you will enter through the larder.  Since Applewood is one of the oldest duchy’s here, these two entry ways should be easy to access.”

Everyone listened as the newly appointed Head of Guard gave the instruction on how and where everyone should be positioned once they got closer to the manor.

“OK now Team Alpha, which will be led by me;  will enter through the secret passageway located here.  Once we’re all in we will separate.  This ensures that we cover more ground quicker.   Alright, let’s move.”

As everyone started to walk through the wooded area outside of Applewood.  Liam turned around to face Drake;  with determination etched on his face and authority in his tone he informed Drake his plan.

Shaking his head no, Drake hissed “What!?!  Li, are you crazy?  You can’t just walk up there with no back up. You’re the King of Cordonia for Christ sake.  No, that’s not happening!”

*** Inside Applewood****

Jilian stood in front of the cold steel bars of her cell, wondering if or when someone would come for her.  

I can’t just sit here and wait for Anton or Godfrey to hurt me or my child.  I have to get us out of here.

Not letting her thoughts consume her of what would go wrong, Jilian decided that the best way to save herself and her baby was by any means necessary.  

Formulating a plan to escape her confines, Jilian’s thoughts were quickly interrupted as she heard footsteps approaching her way.  Without being obvious, she glanced to her left and saw a young man walking towards her cell.

Waiting for the young man to get closer, Jilian grabbed her stomach and began to groan as if she was in pain.  The young man slowed his steps down and quietly watched her as she knelt down, and slowly curdled herself up in a fetal position.

Hastening his steps, the young guard quickly ran to the Queen’s cell.  Reaching for his keys, he opened her cell door and knelt down on the floor next to her.

Placing one hand on her back he asked, “Your majesty are you ok?”  

Sensing that he was feeling some compassion for her, Jilian quickly replied, “No.  This…this is going to hurt me more than you.”

Before realizing what she said, Jilian suddenly grabbed the chain that was attached to her shackled ankle and wrapped it twice around the young guard's neck.  Remembering a similar move Mara had taught her.

‘Remember your Majesty you don’t have a whole lot of time.  Your mind and body must work fast.  Stay calm and remain focused, because the end result is to live’.   Mara’s words to Jilian during their last sparring exercise echoed soundly in her head.

Swiftly rolling her body over from all fours to a sitting position; causing the young guard to follow her movements and end up on his back.

Not wasting any time, Jilian quickly reached for his keys trying each one on the shackle that was attached to her ankle.  After trying 2 keys that weren’t successful, she grabbed a third one.  Third ones the charm, she thought as she twisted the key from left to right, to only feel a slight click and release of the shackle.

Thinking fast, she took the open shackle and placed it on the wrist of the young guard; as she scanned his body for anything she may need to aid her in her escape.  

His phone and keys.

Jilian immediately stood up after pocketing the guard's phone and keys.  Moving to the door, she turned to stare at the young man’s chest; making sure it rose and fell, before quietly exiting the cell.  Closing the door behind her she mumbled, “now I need to find my baby.” 

*******Hidden passageways of Applewood****

Anton continued to make his way through the dark, narrow passageways of Applewood, allowing his memories of the night of the U.N. Gala to resurface.

The Shower

Her body was a work of art.  One that should be admired, caressed, loved, worshiped, and punished as she wished. 

Justin’s eyes roamed Jilian’s form from head to toe.  Watching the water cascade down her body, leaving her most intimate places moist to the touch.

Standing behind her stroking his member with one hand, Justin reached out to grab a fist full of Jilian’s hair with the other.  Pulling her back just enough for her head to fall against his chest, exposing her neck a little more for him to plant wet kisses along her neck and collarbone.  Releasing his stiff member, Justin gripped her waist with one hand, while he pinched and massaged one of her taut buds with the other.  Whispering in her ear how beautiful she was before turning her around to meet her lips with one of many passionate kisses that trailed down her neck to her breast.

Causing her to gasp as she pushed her fingers into his hair to grip his head the moment she felt his hot breath and warm tongue swirl and flick at her erect nipples.  

Justin’s member began to twitch against the apex of Jilian’s thigh when he felt her tug on the hair at the nape of his neck.  Evoking a moan to escape his lips, he murmured, “I’ve wanted to feel you, taste you; ever since the first day I met you.” All while he swirled his tongue around one of her hardened peaks.  

Making sure he gave the same attention to her other breast, Justin began to slurp, suckle, and fondle his way over to the unattended breast.  Dropping his hands down to squeeze and grip the backs of Jilian’s thighs before lifting her up so that she could wrap her legs around his waist.

Prepping to nudge his way through her slick folds, Justin had one palm curled around the base of his shaft, as he pressed the tip of his cock against the base of her wet entrance.  Making sure her legs were secured around his waist, he pressed Jilian’s back up against the tiled wall.  

Feeling the cold dampness against her skin, Jilian arched herself towards his chest.  Her mouth parted slightly to let out a groan and Justin quickly captured her mouth with his. 

While adjusting himself for his anticipated entry; continuing to thrust his tongue into her mouth, Justin accidentally hit the shower handle which caused the water to cease.

But he didn’t care.

“Boom. Boom. Boom,”  were the knocks on the door, followed by Maxwell’s muffled voice.   “Jilian, are you in there?” 

Breathing heavily, Jilian looked into Justin’s pleading eyes as he reluctantly released her legs, so she could slide down his slick, muscular frame.

“I’ll only be a few minutes,” she breathed as she kissed the tender area between his firm pecs before grabbing the towel that hung on the shower door.  Quickly wrapping it around her dripping body, Jilian rushed out of the restroom to answer the door. 

 As she approached the door, she could hear Drake’s baritone rang out.  “Winchester!  Open the damn door.”  Still breathing heavily she yelled back, “coming.”  Taking a deep breath while leaning up against the door stile, she said “hey guys, what’s up!?!”

Brushing past her and heading straight for the candy jar that was sitting on the coffee table, Maxwell blurted out, “you need to get dressed, we’re leaving in like 10 minutes.”

Motioning for Drake to enter, so that she could close her door; Jilian turned to face Maxwell as he examined the crystalline jar with a critical eye in search of his favorite candy.

“Why do I need to get dressed?  Where am I going?”

 ‘Ahhh, gotcha,” Maxwell sanged as he plunged his skinny fingers into the jar, grabbing a butterscotch candy.  

“We found Tariq, and we need to get to him before he leaves.  Leo is waiting on the Royal Jet.  We need to leave soon.”

“Really!  Where did you find him?”

  “MMMmmmm,” Maxwell moaned with closed eyes, as he enjoyed the buttery flavor of the candy disc.  “In Lost Anjewles,” he mumbled.

“Where?”

“Beaumont, really.”  Drake grumbled as he folded his arms across his chest.  “We have reason to believe that Tariq is in Los Angeles, California.”

Slowly emerging from the restroom with a towel clad to the lowest portion of  his waist, Justin replied, “so you don’t really know, you’re just speculating?”  

Maxwell and Drake quickly turned to see whose voice was speaking and from where, before glancing back at Jilian with a wide-eyed expression.  Giving her no time to respond, Drake snarled “What the hell is he doing here?”

****Present***

If only these walls could talk, would they reveal every past majesty's buried secrets and shame.  

Anton thought as he slowed his pace due to the heavy tones and harsh whispers that floated down the passageway.   

Who else is down here.?.

Barley taking a step, he leaned a little more; straining to hear what was being said; as two faint voices exchange in a heated conversation.  

“To be King Regent and bring you with me. Your plans to get close to the Crown have failed twice. And dismally, at that. Your dreams went up in smoke when Liam chose that American commoner, after choosing Madeleine.”

“With all due respect, I don’t need you to bring me anywhere.  Have you forgotten the agreement that was made years ago with Lionel.  That agreement still holds true to this day.  So, you see-”

“Tsk, tsk, please don’t tell me you’re still depending on that failure you call a son.  Trust me, he’s just as incompetent as his mother.  Tell me, whatever happened to her.”

“Her services were of no use to me, so I had her killed.”

Feeling as if the wind had been sucked from his very being,  Anton leaned back against the cold weathered rock, allowing his head to fall to the side, releasing a slow breath trying to process what he just heard.

He had her killed.!.

Anton’s thoughts began to swirl as his mind fell into turmoil.

“How could he kill the only woman that has ever loved me and lie about it?  She was my mother!”

Silently taking in another breath, he leaned in more to ensure he could understand what else was being said.

“Tell me my dear friend, do you really think your son has what it takes to be the King of Cordonia?”

Scoffing before he answered, “Of course I do.  He’s my son after all, but I will also be available for guidance and direction; a strong hand.....if you will.”

“Guidance and direction.  Ha!  Don’t make me laugh.  Have you forgotten that your son is in love with that American commoner?”

“He may be in love with her, but he knows what’s at stake.  He knows the plan.”

Before he could process everything that was being said, a young guardsman quietly approached him and placed his hand on Anton’s shoulder; startling him from his thoughts.

Leaning within earshot of Anton, the young guardsman whispered, “Sir.  We have a situation”.

*****Somewhere in the passageways****

Using the flashlight from the cell phone she stole, Jilian wandered down various tunnels, attempting to find her way back up to the main portion of the manor.  Running her fingers tips along the weathered bricks and stones; stepping carefully and quietly, suddenly realizing that the walls of the tunnel were widening out.  

“I think I’m going the right way.”

Continuing to brush her fingertips along the walls, she noticed how the  texture and patterns began to change.  

“I should be getting close to th-”

Jilian’s words hitched in her throat as she heard a familiar voice rang out.

“ANTON!  WHERE’S MY WIFE AND DAUGHTER?”

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****Flashback of Crowing of the Applewood Queen*******

During the Social Season Anton, just like much of Cordonia, had fallen for the American suitor.  

At times, the Palace would give the press access to cover certain Social Season events and Anton would show up in hopes of getting a closer look at Jilian.  

When she was crowned Applewood Queen, Anton knew he had to meet her. The way she graciously held that title, waving to the crowd with a smile and sometimes a giggle, as her horse drawn carriage strolled her and Liam around the estate grounds.  Anton only imagined that it was he that was next to her, in the place of the crown prince.

That was the day he knew he needed to take his father up on the opportunity that was created for him, he just needed a way in.

So when the scandal rocked her reputation and ruined her chance at being the King’s choice, Anton thought that this would be the last he would hear of the American Suitor.  Until the Duke of Ramsford put an ad in the Crown and Flame Gazette for a Public Relations/Press Secretary representative, Anton knew that this was his chance, his way in.  He knew this would allow him the opportunity to get closer to Jilian, his chance to get her to notice him, but first he needed the Duke to hire him.  

So when the Duke of Ramsford asked him what wages he considered to be applicable for his services, Anton simply replied “free.”  And that was his way in.

****Present Day******

What seemed like hours, was only minutes as Jilian remained crouched down in her cell.  Wrapping her arms tightly around her legs, trying to comfort herself; but nothing helped.  Jilian’s tears kept falling as she rocked back and forth.  Trying to cease Riley’s voice in her head.  

 Jilian drew in a breath as she wiped the tears from her face.  I’m tired of crying, she thought as she slowly rose to her feet; pulling herself up into a standing position.  

Walking back to her cot, Jilian sat on the edge of it.  Heaving her body all the way upon it, angling herself so that she could lean back against the cold cement wall.

Encircling her arms around her torso, wondering why she didn’t leave when she had the chance.

*********Flashback**************

“Okay Jillian don't give the press anything to speculate. Just pose, smile and move on.” 

Jilian nodded and followed through with Justin's words as they flowed through her earpiece. Having him this close, but still so far away gave her comfort. She felt more confident in herself, knowing that Justin was always there. 

Here she was an outsider in a foreign country; that surpassed all of her competitors in every contest she competed in.   Dominating the other Suitors and triumphantly becoming the victor.  Gaining the advantage for her House and with the Cordonian people and press.  

Consequently when Jilian saw the pictures from that dreadful night at Applewood, she knew this would be the one conquest she wouldn’t successfully surpass without help.  

 Sure she had Drake, Maxwell, and Bertrand; but they were investigating. They were trying to help her clear her name, leaving Justin as the person she could talk to and a shoulder to cry on.  Justin was everything Liam couldn’t, but longed to be.

***After The Bachelorette photo shoot****

Jilian sat on her bed , closing her eyes so she could concentrate on the sound of Justin’s voice as he coached her through Ana de Luca’s  questions about Madeleine during her Bachelorette photo shoot.  

“You're doing great. Just keep  playing their game and remember this is Madeleine's day.”  

Jilian continued to reminisce about his patience and guidance.  How he never became frustrated or annoyed with her. His demeanor was always so calm and caring.  Reassuring her that she can do it, that all she has to do is trust herself.  “Trust yourself Jilian, you can do this.”

Still in deep thought, Jilian continued to wonder if this was the best choice after all.  She pondered if finding Tariq would prove anything. Everyone seemed to have made up their own minds about what happened in her room that night, including Liam.  

Especially Liam.

While the Engagement Tour progressed on, her secret rendezvous with Liam became few and far in between.  “Clearly he’s standing by his choice.”

Ruffling her covers, as she pulled them back, settling into bed for the night.  Jilian started to reflect on her life before Cordonia.

Before Liam.  

As she settled a little more in bed, pulling her covers up to her chest; Jilian turned to face the wall behind her, mumbling “maybe I’m wasting my time here”.   Letting out a breath, before closing her eyes she sighed “it’s not like we’re any closer to locating Tariq.”

Once Jilian closed her eyes, there was a sharp knock at the door.

“Really,”  she sighed.  “Who is it?”  She barked as she rolled over on her back.

“Jilian, it’s me.”  Max responded.

Staring at the ceiling, Jilian briefly debated if she wanted to get out of bed and open the door.  With a huff and an eye roll, she threw back her covers, swinging her legs out of bed.  Slipping on her fuzzy slippers, she made her way to her silk robe, before going to the door.  

“Just a minute, Max.”

With a flourish of her robe, and two sideward steps, Jilian opened the door and greeted Maxwell.  Her hair was tousled and uncombed as she tried to stifle a yawn.

“Yes, Lord Beaumont,”  she grumbled.

“Oh.”  Maxwell gasped as his eyes took in Jilian’s appearance.  “Were you sleeping?”

“Yes, and no.  Just like Tariq, sleep apparently can’t be found either.”

Maxwell continued to stand at the door with a glee filled expression on his face. “Oh I wouldn’t say that.”  He sanged.  “I think we’ve narrowed down where Tariq may be hiding.”

Jilian stepped aside, allowing Maxwell to walk further into her train car,  motioning for him to have a seat on her bed as he explained what he and Bertrand had found thus far.  

“Oh and before I forget.”  Maxwell remembered he had an important message to deliver.  “Liam is waiting for you down by the shore.”

“Waiting for who?”  Jilian replied as she leaned in closer to Maxwell, as if she didn’t hear him.

“For you!”

“Wait. Liam is just waiting for me down by the shore?”

Jilian quickly stood up from her bed, pushing her hands into her tangled hair.

“How long has he been down there,” she questioned.

“Oh, I don’t know?  Maybe 10...30 minutes to an hour.  I lost track of time.” Maxwell rattled out.

“Really Maxwell!”  Jilian snapped as she made her way over to her chest of drawer that sat in the corner of the room.  Frantically throwing articles of clothing onto her bed, searching for something to wear.

“What?  Knowing Liam, he’s probably still there.”

“And how do you know that,” she responded once she found something suitable to wear, quickly running into her restroom to change.

“Because he loves you and…...well-

Maxwell paused as Jilian stepped out of her restroom in an off the shoulder ruffle dress.  As she did a quick twirl around, making the pink petaled flowers swirl as well.  Grabbing her comb from the top of her chest of drawer, Jilian began to comb her hair to one side. Causing it to flow and cascade over her shoulder. 

“So, how do I look?”

“Wow.” Maxwell gushed.  “You look amazing.”

“Well, Thank you,” she said as she quickly grabbed her train car key.  

 Hopefully, Liam will think so too, she thought, if he’s still there.

Jilian quickly made her way down to the shore. As she approached the shore front, she could see a tall gentleman looking out into the sea.  His shoulders were back, as he placed both hands in the pockets of his jacket.  He looked to be in deep thought, concerned, just as he turned to face in her direction.

“Liam,” she said breathlessly, “I’m here.”

Liam’s face immediately lit up, as he eagerly wrapped her in his arms, snuggling his body to hers.  

“Jilian.  You came.!.”  He said as his body became less tense.

“Yes, my apologies for being so late.  I just found out about the invite.”

“Maxwell,” they said in unison as they held hands.

“Well, I’m glad you still came.” Liam smiled.

“I wouldn’t miss an invitation to have you all to myself.” 

“Well, now I’m glad I stayed.”  He whispered as he leaned in and captured her lips with a passionate kiss.

Liam could feel Jilian’s body fall into his, as they continued to kiss while the moon danced on the waves that gently washed the shore.

After breaking apart from a much needed, I miss you kiss.  Liam touched his forehead to hers and whispered, “Come, I have something a little more private in mind.”

While they walked arm and arm down the moonlit shore, Jilian couldn’t help but to look up at Liam.   This is my Liam.  This is the man I want, this is the man I’m fighting for, she thought.

“What.?,” he said sheepishly.

“Huh.”

“I can feel you staring at me. Do I have something on my face?”

“No.  King Liam,” she giggled.

As they continued to walk on, Liam was determined to find out why Jilian was staring at him; as if she was seeing him in a different light.

“So, why are you staring?”

“No reason.  I...I just needed a reminder.”

“A reminder.?.” He quipped as he slowed their pace down, turning to face her.  “About?”

Jilian took a deep breath to gather her nerves, before she started this conversation.

“I was just…”  Jilian sighed.  “I’m…”  as she looked down at the sand.  “Liam, I’m tired.  I’ve left my life behind to come here and compete for your hand, and I…I” she stammered.  “I won. You told me that I was your choice, but here we are secretly meeting.”

Liam enclosed Jilian’s hands with his own.  Attempting to reassure her that she was and will always be his first choice.

“Has there been any word on Tariq or his whereabouts?”

Jilian shook her head “no”, and continued to tell Liam the information Maxwell disclosed to her.

Liam could see the hurt and worry that weighed on Jilian.  He wanted to make it all go away, as he pulled her into his chest.  Wrapping his arms as tight as he could around her body, burying his head into her hair.  Feeling powerless, he couldn’t help but think of a way to make this better.

“Liam. What if Tariq isn’t found before the end of the tour?  What will happen to us?”

Liam relaxed his arms just enough to look into Jilian’s eyes; gazing upon her crestfallen expression, shook him to his core. 

 All of his years of training did not prepare him for this. 

He continued to hold her close to his chest.  Inclosing his arms around her body.    

“Would you still marry Madeleine?”

Shutting his eyes, trying to find the best way to say….

“Yes.  I would have to marry Madeleine,” he said with a sorrowful tone.

“What?  Why?  You clearly don’t love her….unless you’re-”  Jilian’s voice hitched, “unless you’re falling in love with her.” 

Liam was so taken back by what she said, it took him a moment to respond, but Jilian took his silence as his truth.    

Looking up into his eyes, she began to wiggle and work herself from Liam’s grip, knowing that this will never be what she thought it would be.

“No. Never.  I could never give my heart to her, or anyone as a matter of fact.”

Jilian continued with her efforts to release herself from Liam’s grip.  “Then why else would you marry her?”  She gritted out.

“Because it’s my….duty.”  Liam’s voice faltered as he finally unclasped his hands.

Jilian could feel her eyes begin to burn from the unshed tears that welled up.  This was something she always knew, but held out hope that she wouldn’t have to endure.

“Yeah, you’re right,” she said as she began to wipe her eyes with the back of her hands, “it’s your duty.”

“Jilian, I wish I could stand here and tell you that I could walk away.  That I would abdicate the throne, but….I can’t.  This is what I was trained for.”

At that moment, Jilian couldn’t see this going any further.

“You know what, you’re right.  I shouldn’t have ever come here.”

“What, no.  I needed to see you.  I’ve missed you.”

“And I’ve missed you, but let’s be honest.  We will never be together, if Tariq isn’t found.”

“Actually,” he said with a glint of hope in his eyes.  “That’s what I was hoping to speak with you about.”

Liam gently held Jilian’s hands in his, rubbing her knuckles with his thumbs.

“What if I propose for us to have an arrangement?”

 “An arrangement?  Like the Cordonian Arrangement.?.” She asked.  “Where I’m your mistress!!!  She snapped.  “Have you lost-”

“Jilian.”  Liam said, holding both of his hands up, hoping to cease her banter.   “Wait, just hear me out.”

Liam reached for Jilian’s hands, hoping to strengthen his resolve.

“Yes, the arrangement was put in place for past Monarchs to be able to govern with a strong companion; but still be able to love whom they love.”

Rubbing his thumbs over her knuckles, Liam feels confident that his explanation is better than what Jilian’s was.  “So, you see.  You and I will still be able to be together.”

“Until.?.”

“No, there isn’t any until.  We will be together forever, because I love you.”

“No we won’t, Liam.  You said yourself; the council and country will be expecting children.  To show a strong monarchy.”

“Yes, but-”

“No Liam, there aren’t any buts.”

Liam let out a breath as he released Jilian’s hands.  Trying to comprehend why she was against this, why was she against his plan for them to be together.  

He took a moment before speaking.  “Wait, are you disagreeing with the arrangement, because of me marrying Madeleine or does it have to do with Justin?”

Jilian’s eyes narrowed with anger, as she jerked her hands from his.  Taking a step back to regain her demeanor.

“What are you implying?”

Liam stood firm in his place, with his arms folded across his broad chest.  He knew it wasn’t ideal, nor was it the best answer, but given the circumstances this was the only way that he could assure that they would be together.

“I’m not implying anything.”  He said as he clicked his tongue. “I’m just saying...things seem to be-,” he paused as he let out a breath, “you two seem inseparable these days.”  

“Wow.!. So we’re back to this again.  Justin is my Press Secretary.  You know… the guy hired to help non smear my reputation; due to a scandal that your Dear Ole Dad framed me in.”   Jilian said as she turned away from Liam.  

Hearing him speak of her possibly wanting to be with Justin pushed her from feeling nothing to something..fast.  Jilian was tired of being calm.  She was tired of constantly biting her words and being nice to those that weren’t nice to her.  She was fed up.

“Liam, I’m tired!” She yelled as she turned back around to face him, with tears streaming down her cheeks.  

“I’m tired of being the only one defending me and my honor.  I have to put on a brave face everyday before stepping foot out of my quarters.  Justin is here to help me, ME!”  She barked as she poked herself in the chest.  “Because no one else is.”

Liam immediately felt horrible.  He knew life for Jilian was not what they wanted it to be.  This was not something that she had bargained for, but was still handling it well,  until now.

“Come here, I’m….I’m sorry.  I don’t like this anymore than you do, and I wish I could make it all go away.”

Taking Jilian back into his arms, rubbing her back as she buries her head into his chest.  “I just don’t want us to end.  I can’t fathom life without you.”

Jilian continued to weep silently against Liam.  Causing her body to shake as she took in another breath, only to weep again.  Knowing that one of them had to be strong, one of them had to make the decision and from the looks of it, it had to be her.  

Once she drew in another shaky breath, Jilian whispered, “Liam”.

“Yes.”

“We...we can’t keep doing this.  It’s not healthy for you or me.”  

Liam slowly loosened his embrace, allowing him to look into Jilian’s bloodshot eyes.

“I’ve decided to stay in New York after the U.N. Gala.”

Liam’s stoic facade began to fade as Jilian’s words sank in.

“Stay?”

“Yes, stay.”

“What?  No, Jilian. Please.” He pleaded.

With tears in her eyes, Jilian took a step back and cupped both of his cheeks.  “Goodbye Liam,” she whispered while leaning in to kiss him gently.

Liam’s hands slowly ran down her arms, hoping to grab ahold of her when he reached her hands, but he couldn’t.  

He couldn’t stop the pain of her words from colliding with his heart. His sable eyes glossed over as he watched Jilian slowly walk away.  Trying to drown out his inner voices that were screaming for him to stop her; knowing that he couldn’t.  He couldn’t stop those voices and he couldn’t chase after her, because he knew he wouldn’t be able to give her what she wanted, what she needed.  

 ******Train car**************

Justin’s brows furrowed as he continued to knock on Jilian’s door, but she failed to answer it.  Where could she be, why isn’t she answering?

“Jilian. Are you there?”  He bellowed, while continuing to knock.

“Nope, she’s not,” a voice called out from behind.

“Oh.  Hi Maxwell.  Have you seen Jilian?  I wanted to go over tomorrow’s agenda with her.”

“Yeah, she’s...out.”  Maxwell mumbled as he moved past Justin, down the traincar hall. 

“Any idea when she’ll return?”

“Nope.”

45 minutes later

Justin sat outside Jilian’s parlor car door, patiently waiting for her to return.  He figured she would be due back soon, seeing that they were scheduled to pull off from the station within the hour.  Slouching down to the floor, Justin thought it would be best if he sat there and waited for Jilian to return.

After waiting close to 45 minutes, Just began to think that Jilian may not be returning to her room for the night.

As he slowly rose up from the floor, adjusting his pants and straightening up his shirt and tie; he heard the faint scraping of metal as the train car door sled open and closed.

Looking to his left, he saw Jilian coming down the hall.  Her eyes were puffy and her makeup was a mess.

“Jilian,” he gasped, “are you O.K.?”

Jilian shook her head no.  Cupping her hands over her mouth, trying to keep from crying out loud.

“Hey there, come here,” Justin said as he held his arms out for her to walk into his embrace.  

He didn’t know what happened and although he asked her, all she could do was cry.  

Justin knew better than to push her, so he continued to hold her until she felt calm enough to speak. 

“Hey, why don’t you give me your room key, and we can go inside.”  He said in an undertone while holding his hand out for her key.

Once they made it inside her room, Jilian ran over and flopped down on her bed, while Justin knelt down beside it.  Rubbing her back as her body resumed to shake, Justin murmured “it’s O.K., just let it out.”

As she steadily rose up to a sitting position on her bed, she was embarrassed that she’d cried like a schoolgirl over someone that obviously didn’t feel the same way about her as she did him.

Justin stood up and leaned over to brush a few curls of hair from Jilian’s face.  Seeing that she was clearly heartbroken, he cupped her cheek with his left hand and asked her if she wanted to talk about it.

Closing her eyes as she released a breath, Jilian started to tell Justin why she was crying and where she’d come from.  

Watching his facial expressions and body language, Justin made Jilian feel at ease around him.  He listened to her with his entire body. She felt like he was more than someone hired to make her reputation look better, she felt like he was her friend.  

Justin couldn’t help but feel relieved that Jilian turned down Liam’s offer for her to be his concubine.  

“Maybe staying in New York after the U.N. Gala isn’t a bad idea,” he said as Jilian sat silently nodding her head in agreement.  

“Yeah, but there’s one small problem.  If I leave, you’ll be out of a job and the Beaumont Brothers will be out of the money they’ve already given you.”

Justin asked for permission to sit on Jilian’s bed, before he carried on with his reasoning.  While turning his body better to face her, bending his right knee, Justin reached over and placed his hand on top of hers.

“No, they wouldn’t.  I would give it back to them.”

Jilian sat on her bed, staring at Justin.  Giving him an inquisitive eye, she asked, “Why would you do that?”

Justin knew what was expected of him.  He knew his duty, but he also knew what he was feeling...and that meant more to him than anything.

“I think it’s time someone left everything they knew and loved behind for you.”