Falling in love with you
Chapter 14 - The Storm
Book: The Royal Romance AU ( Drake x MC & Liam x Olivia)
What it’s about: This is an AU that happens two years after Riley weds Drake. Drake has lost his memory of last 2 years due to an accident. He doesn’t remember meeting Riley who is pregnant with their first child. Unaware of this fact and not able to cope with the strange new life he has woken up to , he flees Cordonia.
Liam marries Olivia for purely political purposes. Olivia on the other hand marries him because she is madly in love with him. But after two years on marriage and unable to produce an heir and unable to get Liam to love her, she asks for a divorce.
A/N: I recent watched two amazing web-series that left me hanging for next season. “People got to start finishing their story” I thought. And I should be the one to start. I have left you waiting and I am sorry for that. Here is the latest Chapter. Story is no where near end.
Summary of last Chapter :
One and a Half Years Back : Regina explains Liam that not producing an heir in due time can cause chaos in Monarchy. She also hints that Olivia must consult a doctor. Olivia overhears this conversation and decides to consult a doctor.
The doctor informs her that her ovary was damaged - during the fight with Anton. She was also suffering from a condition that was making it nearly impossible for her to conceive.
Now: Liam meets Drake at a ranch in USA. They talk and Liam clears that whatever happened was in past. and Riley was just a friend to him now.
Liam also confirms that Riley was pregnant with Drake’s child. Drake decides to return with Liam.
Warnings: 13 +
PLEASE NOTE: Past chapters links are available in my bio.Please Re-blog, Comment or at least hit like if you like this series.
One Year Back:
Olivia stood in the balcony facing the private royal garden lush with thousands of flowers in all possible colors. Chirping of birds had filled the morning sky. A soft breeze were playing gently with her red locks.
It was a beautiful and peaceful morning, but her thoughts could not have been further away from it. Her thoughts were like a tornado causing complete havoc inside her. Standing in silence, with a stoic face, alone in the beautiful balcony of the grand palace, was the queen of Cordonia. The women envied by every other woman in Cordonia herself was feeling frustrated, tormented, empty, unworthy.
Her entire life was flashing in front of her eyes - her parents who neglected her when she was a child, who were killed, who turned out to be traitors. She was left alone, rejected and frowned upon by everyone except Liam. She was just a child when she was made duchess of Lythikos. But she was a fighter. She had proven herself to be worthy of the title.
It was not her fault that her parents were traitor. But everyone treated her differently. A child inherits not only the legacy of their parents but also their reputation - good or bad. She had learned at a very young age that one can gain respect in only two ways - love or fear. If they cannot love her, they need to fear her.
And she didn’t care if no one loved her. She only needed love from one man, her husband - the King - Liam Rhys. He cared for her, he trusted her, liked her. But didn’t love her.
A sad smile spread on her lips as she thought about the love of her life. It had been a year of their married life. And it seemed that the initial charm of their marriage was already dying down. The sex was becoming less frequent, and Liam seemed constantly busy in his work.
She knew Liam had made it very clear that their marriage was a political one. Their first anniversary was a political affair too. They had a grand ball organized on their first marriage anniversary. Royal families of all neighboring countries had attended. The legendary party had been in news for days. But for Liam it was only a reason to meet the dignitaries of neighboring countries. A chance to make allies and strengthen the existing ties.
Her hands tightened on the railing. Was it too much to expect a small gift from him on the anniversary? Or just a loving kiss or a hug? maybe a few words saying what she meant to him?
She had hoped he would eventually fall in love with her. She was doing everything she could - taking care of his every need like a good lover, guiding and helping him in all state matters like a good queen, pleasing him in bed…. she was draining herself out - but all her efforts were going to a barren land. Not yielding any fruit. same way as her barren womb.
Would producing an heir change his feelings towards her? Or she would again be left aching for him? And would she even be able to produce an heir? Questions violently gyrated inside her like a tornado.
It had been six months since the doctors appointment and even after taking the medicines regularly, there was no result. Maybe she was barren, empty, unworthy. She looked down the balcony. Will this agony end if she just take a leap? Her eyes were fixed at the land 20 feet below her.
“Liv” - Liam called out to her. Olivia felt as if she woke up from a trance. She turned and saw Liam standing at the door. She ran to him and wrapped him in a tight hug, burring her head in his neck.
Liam gently wrapped her in a hug,”Are you okay?” he asked. She just nodded without lifting her head. “You seemed lost there” he asked again.
She didn’t reply. But gently pulled away. She started to walk away from him, but Liam grabbed her by her wrist. “Something is bothering you, Liv” he asked, “dont want to share it with me?”
“There is nothing, really.” Olivia said looking in his eyes. Her gaze as fierce as ever. But Liam could see the pain covered behind the strong exterior. He however decided it is best to let go of topic.
“Liv, I was thinking that we should visit Lythikos for this weekend.” He was glad that he came up with the idea, because he saw a spark in her eyes as soon as she heard Lythikos. Her entire body relaxed and a smile spread on her face.
“Yes, you haven’t been to Lythikos since our wedding, and we can spend some time together. “ he suggested.
The two thing she loved - Lythikos and Liam - together for a weekend, what more could she ask for. “That’s brilliant idea” the scarlet duchess beamed - for a fraction of a second Liam saw the innocence of the young Olivia on the duchesses’ face.
“ I am going to make the arrangements” she kissed Liam on his cheek and rushed out, Liam chuckled looking at her. He was really glad he could make her forget about whatever was bothering her, even if for just some time.
“They will be here any minute” Hana told Riley.
“He should have been here an hour ago.” Riley said firmly. “Press is waiting. We need to make a statement.” she walked out of the parlor of the hotel where the press conference was organized.
Hana had already received a call from Liam informing that they have landed in Valtoria about two hours ago. He should have reached the press conference an hour ago, but there was no sign of him. Riley had continued with her schedule as if not caring about his arrival. But Hana knew that every news of Drake had effected her deeply. The last month had not been easy for Riley and Hana was not sure if Drake’s presence would mean for Riley.
Hana looked at her pleadingly. “Please wait for five minutes?”
“Even if he reaches here in five minutes, do you think he will be able to solve all problems?” Riley asked, “He is not Drake anymore, accept that.” She said and strode towards the press conference room.
She opened the room and took her place on the dais on the stage. She felt her heart beating fast in her chest. You can do it - She reassured herself. It was not new for her to face press for some controversy. But this was the first time Drake was not by her side. A simple lip curl on Drake’s face when she would look at him for support used to increase her confidence ten fold.
As she had sensed, the press had noted Duke’s absence. A murmur was going around the room that was hard to miss. Cameras started flashing. Riley raised a hand to silence the reporters. “Thank you for coming” She smiled at them confidently.
“I am here to let the land owners know that we have heard their concerns ” She knew she needs to be on point, and not let media control the narrative.” I want them to know that we are with them. We value them. We will not do any injustice with them. We have made sure that all land owners gets same area of land that they are donating or …”
“Would you say they are donating? land owners feel like you are snatching the lands from them” a reporter interrupted her.
Riley stammered for a moment, but took a deep breath and continued,”The Dam is being built for the betterment of entire duchy. In fact, it will also benefit neighboring duchy. We need some land to create reservoir. We have planned the location so that it benefits the most…”
“But it was Sir Drake’s plan. Where is he? Shouldn’t he be answering us?” Another reporter interrupted her. This was the first time reporters were interrupting her. She hadn’t expected such hostile behavior.
Riley felt her throat choke up. She took a sip from the water from the glass placed in front of her, and said,” He is away for an important work…”
“Is it true that he is away since a month?” another reporter asked.
“Are you pregnant?” a voice asked from another corner.
“Are you two separated?” another question was fired at her from somewhere else.
Soon all the reporters started firing questions from all directions to her. She found her voice choked up in her throat. She raised her hand to ask them to stop , but the situation was already out of hand.
Hana ran to front and took a mic to ask the reporters to calm down. Their questions had now been replaced by a strange murmur discussing the rumors they had heard.A wave of panic rushed over Riley. The media hadn’t been her friend last month and she had realized it long before today. But today the reality was staring her in her face. And she was proving to be weak.
Suddenly the room fell silent. Riley looked up to see all eyes fixed to the door behind her.
She turned to see Drake entering the room. He had dressed up in a suit. His long hair gelled and combed neatly. He walked confidently to the stage
Her heart started beating hard in her chest. She felt an urge to run to him and wrap him in a hug, to kiss him, feel his warmth. But she sat froze looking at him, gripping the chair to prevent herself from acting on the urge. Their eyes met for a brief moment. As soon as their eyes meet, Drake looked down, hesitant to meet her gaze. Within a fraction of second, he caught himself and fixed his eyes on the swarm of reporters and photographers who all had stood up by now.
Cameras were flashing all around. Capturing each movement of Drake. He was prepared for this. He strode to the desk with confidence. He adjusted his suit before taking a seat next to Riley. He gestured to the reporters to settle down.
“I understand that there are many questions that you need answers for.” He began calmly. He was trying his best to stay stoic and confident, but Riley saw his feet shaking below the table. She knew how hard this could be for him. Instinctively she placed a hand on his knee. Drake turned to look at her. This small gesture was enough for him to boost his confidence. He smiled thankfully at her. She gave a reassuring smile in return before gently moving her hand back.
“However, today we dont want to answer any questions. There are few things that needs to be said.” Drake returned his focus back to the crowd in front of them. He made sure his voice is firm and calm. Liam had made him practice this a hundred times in the flight back.
“First, Riley will complete what she has to say” He looked at his beautiful wife sitting next to him.
Riley nodded to him and started addressing the crowd before her. She explained the reporters how they are going to address the issues before them. No one interrupted her now. They seemed least interested in the land owners protest. They were here to know about Drake. And now when he was here, they didn’t had many questions left.
Riley completed her speech with confidence. Drake looked at her through the entire speech mesmerized by her. They way she spoke with confidence and compassion, addressing all concerns of land owners one by one, made Drake look at her with new found respect.
“I assure you that we are going to discuss the concerns with each individual landowner to make sure that none of them face any kind of injustice. “ She said concluding her speech.”We have always stood by our people and will continue to do so. Thank you. I believe that you will continue to put your trust in us.”
Riley had decided that as soon as she delivered the speech, she would leave. As she didn’t want to answer any further questions. Her eyes met with Drake’s before she stood up to leave. But Drake immediately stood up to stop her, wrapping an arm around her waist.”Just a min,” he smiled looking at the reporters. “We have an important announcement to make”.
This sudden gesture of Drake again caused a turmoil inside of Riley.
“We are so happy to announce this….” Drake smiled proudly,” we are expecting a baby.” He gently placed his hand on her belly.
Riley felt her body tearing apart. Half of her body wanted to run away from him, but half of her wanted him to envelop in his arms. She realized her shocked face is being photographed from all angles. She forced a smile and posed for the cameras. She knew this was going on the covers of all news papers and magazines tomorrow and in an hour on all social media. By now, she had mastered the art of disguising all her emotions in front of media.
“Thank you everyone” Drake waved to everyone. And gently escorted Riley away. Riley walked beside him wordlessly to the car. As soon as they sat in car, Riley shifted to side , keeping a distance between her and Drake. Drake too couldn’t muster the courage to talk to her in front of the driver or the security.
After a very silent drive, Drake and Riley reached their estate with Hana. As soon as the car stopped, Riley stepped out of the car and stormed inside. Drake and Hana ran after her.
“Riley, please wait” Hana called out to Riley. But she didn’t stop.
“Riley, please listen to me.” Drake called out to her. Riley stopped and turned to look at him. Tears running down her face.
“Don’t you think it is a little too late to talk?” she said clenching her teeth.
“Riley , please calm down” Hana ran to her to place a hand on her shoulder.
“I understand your anger. I am sorry Riley. I really..” Drake took a tentative step towards her.
“Oh! so now you are sorry?” Riley’s could not control her anger any longer,”And what? You expect me to forgive you?.” She took two steps towards Drake as if challenging him.
“Drake, please. Lets talk later.” Hana pleaded. Drake read the fear in Hana’s eyes.
“Yes, I guess we should talk later.” he said.
“No,” Riley said, her body shaking in anger,”You said you wanted to talk. so talk. I am listening.” Tears kept streaming down her red eyes, but she didn’t bother wiping them away. “Tell me why did you left? Without a word.”
“Riley, I am really sorry, please calm down.” he tentatively took steps towards her. Riley raised her hand to stop him.
“Don’t come near me.” Riley took a step away from him stumbling a little. “How dare you come back as if nothing happened? Announce my pregnancy? Without even consenting with me…”
Riley paused, as if to compose herself.
“Riley….” Drake started to say something, but realized that Riley was loosing her balance. “Riley!” he shouted before rushing to catch her just in time before she fell.
A panic washed over as he saw her lying unconscious in his arms. “Riley!”,
Hana rushed to kneel down beside Drake. “Hana, bring some water.” Hana nodded and rushed to get some water.
“Riley”, Drake patted her cheek repeatedly to wake her up. “Please wake up!” he pleaded.
Disclaimer: The characters belong to Pixelberry.
Taglist : @agent-bossypants , @mymandrake , @writtenbycandy , @mind-reader1 , @alesana45 , @the-excelsior , @walkerisbae , @butindeed , @notoriouscs , @speedyoperarascalparty , @stopforamoment , @andy-loves-corgis , @jenp02cutie-blog , @drakelover78 , @silviasutton1989 , @annekebbphotography , @stopforamoment @traeumerinwitzhelden , @blackwidow2721 , @flowerpowell, @blubutterflyy, @mrsernestsinclaire , @liamskinkyqueen , @fluffy-marshmallow-heart , @carabeth, @drakewalker04, @rupsha-akoijam, wannabemc2 , @drakesensworld, @ ladyangel70 , @crookedslimecreatorpasta, @ polishchoicesfan , @ac27dj, @polishchoicesfan, @annekebbphotography, @indiana-jr, @furiouscloddonutpeanut, @duchess-rwalker, @zorjasblog, @radlovedreamer, @choices97, @kimmiedoo5, @marshmallowsandfire, @bascmve01, @dcbbw, @kingliam2019, @indiana-jr,@choices97, @marshmallowsaremyfavorite, @choiceskatie , @rubiwalker, @marshmallowsandfire, @lovablegranny, @texaskitten30, @annekebbphotography, @twinkle-320,
Please let me know if you want me to remove you or add you to the tag list.Sometimes these tags are not even working.
