My masterlist is at the end of my bio.

Book: The Royal Romance (After Book Three, but no TRH)
Pairing: Bastien Lykel x OC Rinda Lykel, Henry
Word Count: 1,980

Triggers for COVID-19 topic, reference to speculation of death/at risk populations, family separation when a parent is high-risk because of their career

I realize this is a sensitive topic, and my intention was to treat the COVID-19 pandemic, and the people who have been influenced by it, with respect.

My heart goes out to everyone who has been impacted. My condolences. My love and respect to everyone who sacrifices so much to keep the rest of us safe—especially people who are on the front line like health care professionals, cashiers and shelf stockers, delivery workers, and so many more.

Thank you!

Author’s Note: Obligatory disclaimer that Pixelberry Studios owns the TRR characters and my pocketbook with those darn diamond scenes. Rinda and Henry with all of their quirks are all mine. 

Drabble Summary: This takes place in late winter 2020, when countries were beginning to realize just how serious the coronavirus really is. There’s also a little NSFW.

Promises

Everyone was quiet during the ride home from George and Brigitte’s house. Henry was in the backseat, staring absently out the window as he stroked Ollie’s head. The dog had fallen asleep after a traumatizing day of avoiding the neighbor dog’s attempts to hump him.

Rinda was sitting in the passenger seat, her hand resting on Bastien’s thigh as she alternated between watching Henry and staring at her husband’s profile. He was deep in thought as he drove, his eyes occasionally darting to check his mirrors before turning back to the road in front of him.

“Hey.” Rinda’s voice was low and although Bastien focused on his driving, Rinda knew he was listening. “I know, Tiger. And it’s okay.”

Bastien pursed his lips but didn’t say anything. He didn’t need to. When he briefly took his eyes from the road to look at her, Rinda saw it in his eyes. The agony of a father and husband who needed to leave his family so he could protect his country. The agony he would hide as he slipped into his role of Colonel Lykel, the head of the Cordonian National Response Program. The man who would be responsible for enforcing the King’s mandates to close borders and order people to shelter in place.

The career that was meant to keep him safer and closer to home. But no one was safe anymore and it was his sworn duty, and his privilege, to protect his King and Country.

… . .

After Rinda and Bastien tucked Henry into bed, Rinda stepped out so Bastien could say goodbye. “Knuddelbär?  I need to work with the King to keep people safe during the coronavirus, and I don’t know how long that will take.”

Henry nodded. “I know.” His voice was very quiet. “We’ve all been watching the news, and mom told me that President Trump already closed U.S. borders to China. And that other countries think he’s being too extreme.”

Bastien nodded. “That’s right. King Liam, Queen Riley and I need to talk about those kinds of things. We want to keep people safe, but we also don’t want to turn people away or close businesses and schools. Those are really big decisions, but if we do have to do that, I’ll be away for a long time. I don’t want to get you and mom sick, so it’s important that I stay at the palace while you stay here where there are less people.”

Henry suddenly scooted away from Bastien and called for Ollie to jump into bed with them. When the dog jumped onto bed Henry made a production of talking to him, asking Ollie about his day, as he scratched his belly. “Who’s the good boy who got humped by a smaller dog? Huh? Is it Ollie? Did Ollie have a ‘RUFF’ day?”

Bastien waited patiently, knowing Henry needed his space. Henry needed to deflect while he compartmentalized his thoughts and worked through the best way to share them. And when he shared them, the really embarrassing or really serious things, he wouldn’t make eye contact. He would quickly, without warning, begin rambling the rest. If you didn’t know how Henry processed things, you’d miss it. Or you’d think it came out of nowhere.

But Bastien knew Henry, and he knew he had to be ready to listen.

And he was.

“Ollie. Will you snug in bed with me tonight? Will you be my guard dog? And we’ll both protect mom together, okay? Just until Bonk comes home. And mom says we will deliver groceries to Mr. Ariti and Mr. Halkais, but we have to be really, really careful because they’re higher risk to get sick. But we can help take care of them.”

Henry was starting to cry, so he laid down in his bed with his head turned from Bastien. He pulled the covers over his head and snuggled into his stuffed animal, Buddy. Henry was embarrassed and retreating into himself. No one could see him like this.

“Henry? I have to leave early in the morning for the palace. We need to figure out what’s going on so we can stop it. I know this is the worst time for me to leave you and your mom, but I’ve already talked to Drake and Laura. They’re going to help you take care of everyone. Mom too. But in the meantime, I need you to stay close to home and not go in public places. Just play outside with friends and be inside before the sun even begins to set. Phillip too, okay?”

Bastien kissed the blanket where it covered Henry’s head. “I promise that I love you and your mom more than anything else in this world. I promise that I want to come home as soon as possible. And I promise that I will do everything I can to stay safe while I do my job so I can come home to you and mom.” Bastien knew he could never make a promise that he’d come home safe. Not to a child who lost his father in the line of duty. He never said it to Drake or Savannah, and he didn’t say it to Henry, either.

But there was more. Bastien always thought he was too practical to be superstitious—or even spiritual. In spite of this, he knew Jackson still protected Drake, Savannah, and their families. He knew Jameson and Grandma Lorinda still protected Henry and Rinda. And every night Bastien would say a few words to each of them, thanking them for helping him keep their family safe.

And this is what he reminded Henry of as he rubbed his back and said goodbye. Jameson and Grandma Lorinda, and Jackson. They were guardian angels who would protect all of them, and they would also help Bastien, Rinda, Drake, and Laura to keep Henry safe. And there would be other people, too. Other people who would work together to keep everyone in Cordonia safe.

Bastien was about to leave, but Henry emerged from his blanket cocoon. “Bonk?”

“Yes, Knuddelbär?”

“Will Mr. Ariti and Mr. Halkais die if they get it? Will you die too?”

“I don’t know. Older people do get really sick, and yes. Right now a lot of them die because we don’t know how to deal with the coronavirus yet. So Mr. Ariti and Mr. Halkais would probably die, and that’s why we’ll all work together to keep them safe. And that means staying away from them and washing our hands a lot. And I’m going to be careful too.” He booped Henry’s nose. “I’m not THAT old, Knuddelbär. But yes, I might get really sick if I get it and need to go to the hospital. And it might take a few weeks for me to be healthy again.”

Bastien locked eyes with Henry. “Make me a promise.”

Henry pulled the covers away from his face and sat up in bed. “I know, Bonk. I promise that I’ll take care of mom.”

Bastien shook his head. “No. Promise that you’ll take care of yourself. Henry. Listen to me. Your safety is the most important thing to me and to your mom. And to your dad.” Bastien paused when Henry turned away. “Henry, you need to look at me.” He waited for Henry to shift his eyes and focus on him again. “Before your mom and I started dating, she told me that she understood the King and Queen’s safety always had to be my top priority. But she made me promise if there was ever a situation where I had to choose between you or her … or if any members of the guard had to choose between you or her, it always had to be you. It’s the promise she and your dad made to each other, and now it’s the promise we made to each other. You know I will take care of you if anything happens to your mom. And you know that Drake and Laura will take care of you if anything happens to me and your mom. You have to live. YOU are the most important thing. So no matter what happens, you have to promise me. You have to promise me that you will live, even if it means staying with someone else if mom and I are in the hospital. Even if it means you can’t see us or visit, because it’s safer to stay at home.”

Rinda heard Henry’s loud sobbing and she came back into the room to see Bastien holding their son, tears in his eyes as he recklessly promised Henry over and over again that it would all be over soon, that they’d all be safe and home together again soon.

He promised.

… . .

Bastien had one more goodbye. He took off his shirt, carefully folded it, and placed it on the dresser. He knew Rinda would need it to help her sleep while he was gone.

Rinda’s eyes were aquamarine, but she smiled bravely for her husband. “Don’t worry about us, promise? You need to focus on figuring this out and keeping yourself safe.”

“Tria …” He cupped her face with his hands. He already knew every detail of her face, from the laugh lines around her eyes, to the beauty mark on her cheek, to the small scar underneath her chin from a childhood sledding accident. But he looked at her again, as if he were seeing her for the first time. His brave, beautiful Tria.

She pulled him closer to kiss him. “Please, promise me.”

“I promise, Tria.” He kissed her again. “I’m going to miss you.”

“I’m going to miss you too.” She kissed his nose. “I’m going to miss your nose.”

Bastien grinned and kissed her forehead. “And I’m going to miss your forehead.”

Their little game continued as Bastien carried Rinda to their bed, each of them kissing the parts they’d miss. Their ears. Jawline. Neck.

Now lower.

Breasts. Abdomen.

Now silly.

Belly button. Toes.

Now higher.

Calves. The inside of their thighs.

Trailing teasing kisses.

Tongues twirling around the intimate areas they would miss. Rinda gasping Bastien’s name, Bastien groaning hers as they joined. Slowly. Something to be savored, in case it was their last time. It was what they’d both miss most of all.

Being together.

… . .

Bastien spooned against Rinda, pulling her close as his leg sprawled over her hip, his foot tucked between her calves.

Rinda took deep breaths, trying to steady herself. She knew Bastien wouldn’t sleep until she did. She knew he needed his sleep, but her mind raced with all of the “what ifs.” But he felt her shaking and felt her hot tears drip onto his arm. “Shhh, my dearest Tria. Just be here with me, in this moment.” He held her as the tears continued to pool onto his arm. “I’m here right now. I’m with you. Even when I’m gone, I’ll be with you. And I will always, always love you.”

When Rinda woke in the morning, Bastien was already gone. But he left his shirt lying next to her and she held it close, inhaling his scent. She missed him already.

When Rinda got out of bed that morning, she saw a Ziplock bag on the dresser that held another one of Bastien’s shirts. She reached for it with tentative hands, clutching it, careful not to open the bag and release its comforting scent too soon.

And when Rinda collapsed on the floor, clenching the bag tightly as she rocked back and forth, her grief becoming a keening wail that could be heard outside the house.

Bastien already knew that he would be gone for a long time. Longer than Rinda had been ready to admit to herself.

@bobasheebaby@sirbeepsalot@jovialyouthmusic

My masterlist is at the end of my bio.

Book: The Royal Romance (After Book Three, but no TRH)
Pairing: Bastien Lykel x OC Rinda Lykel
Word Count: 3,617 (sorry!)

Triggers for references to puberty, menarche, description of menstrual cramps, dysfunctional mother/daughter relationship. And language! This is about puberty so it’s NSFW, but there’s no smut. Just eduational talks about sex and descriptions about what happens when you grow up.

Author’s Note: Obligatory disclaimer that Pixelberry Studios owns the TRR characters and my pocketbook with those darn diamond scenes. Rinda, Henry, Évelyne, and Mr. Artiti with all of their quirks are all mine.

Thank you @burnsoslowand @bobasheebaby for validating what Bastien and Drake would think of when they needed to tame the beast. @sirbeepsalot thanks for still reading!

Sorry this got so long. My son is becoming a young man, and the mom in me is sad that my little boy is growing up, but I’m also so proud of the young man he’s becoming. Also, it’s true that you fall in love with your partner even more when you see how good they are with your children. My husband is such a strong role model for our son, and I am the luckiest woman in the world. However, some of my own puberty experiences did come through when I was writing about Rinda and her parents!

Drabble Summary: Henry is becoming a young man, and this makes Rinda reflect on her childhood, her marriage with Jameson, and her marriage/family with Bastien, Henry, and Évelyne.

*“Gopa” is the Lykel family’s way of shortening “Geleibter Opa.” It’s German for “beloved grandpa.”

Do It Better

Rinda always wished her parents did things better than they did. Any important event in her life, and somehow they managed to screw it up. When she and Jameson got engaged, Rinda was so excited that she insisted they stop by her parents’ house as a surprise to tell them in person. The fact that they randomly showed up should have been a clue that either something was wrong, or something was very, very right. However, before they could say anything her mother immediately began talking about something—Rinda couldn’t even remember what—and the happy couple couldn’t even get a word in edgewise to announce their news.

When Jameson and Rinda found out they were pregnant with Henry they called ahead to ask to come over. Rinda’s mother said yes, even though Rinda’s father had gone to bed early. He yelled “Congratulations!” from the bedroom but didn’t bother to get up. Jameson saw that look in Rinda’s eyes, the defeated look that he knew so well, and he quickly cut the visit short. He comforted her the entire way home, making sure to hit a drive thru for chocolate malts with extra whipped cream, as she cried because her parents ruined everything important to her. Again.

But Rinda was used to it. Ever since she was a child. But she and Jameson promised each other that they’d do better with Henry. They’d cherish those moments and celebrate each milestone appropriately. And now, she and Bastien would do the same thing.

… . .

Henry was 13, and he was becoming more private about things. Showering every day and using deodorant. Trying to secretly wash his sheets more often. Rinda saw the soft peach fuzz that was growing under his lip. And when Rinda accidently caught him changing clothes, she saw more of his body’s changes. He had pubic hair! But she quickly turned away before Henry knew she was there, and she said nothing. She didn’t want to embarrass him, even though everything in her wanted to cry and scream because her little boy was becoming a man.

Bastien and Rinda knew Henry would be humiliated if they deliberately pointed out any of these changes, but Rinda still wanted to do something, anything, to acknowledge that Henry was becoming a young man. And Henry’s Bonk didn’t disappoint.

He and Drake took Henry on a week-long vacation in Lythikos. No particular reason, except that Henry was a teenager now and it was time they all did a real guy’s trip. They went camping and fishing. They spent time on archery, self-defense drills, and shooting contests. Plus there was other important guy stuff. They practiced peeing their names onto the ground, held burping contests, and dropped ass near the campfire to see if their farts would catch fire.

Throughout the week Bastien and Drake would casually drop words of advice. Sometimes guys got an erection for no reason. Or sometimes it happened if they thought a guy or girl was really attractive. It was all totally normal. When it happened to him, Bastien would go through security scenarios in his head to help it go away. Drake would recite different types of fish or brands of whiskey to himself. Henry said he knew the first 100 digits of Pi, and Bonk and Drake thought that running through those numbers in his head would be perfect.

Henry was done talking about it, but Drake wanted to give a little more advice. Cold showers helped too. But if you were in public, there were also certain ways you could casually rearrange yourself or hold something in front of you.

Henry got a mischievous look in his eyes. “Is that why you and Bonk cross your hands in front of yourself whenever you’re working?” Before Drake could protest, Henry stuck his butt in Drake’s face and farted. Drake’s eyes were watering as Bastien gave Henry a high five.

… . .

Mom already talked to Henry about how to help a woman if she had problems during her period, and there were extra feminine products in the bathroom (and soon there would be condoms too), but Bastien and Drake also had other advice that week. No sexting. Ever! And as far as making out and having sex? Wait until you are a lot older. But when you feel you are ready, your partner must be too. “No” ALWAYS means no. A “maybe” or unsure “yes” also ALWAYS means no. That means stop. Recite Pi to yourself if you have to, but take your hands off of her, step back to give both of you space, and STOP.

Henry nodded. He heard people say “consent is sexy,” but Bastien shook his head. “No, Henry. Consent is mandatory.”

Henry already knew about condoms and that you have to use them. Even though Henry was blushing, Drake grabbed a banana and offered to show Henry how to put on a condom. Bastien began gagging from the banana smell, and Henry gave Drake a high five when Bastien ran to the bushes to throw up.

It was too embarrassing for Henry to actually see how to put a condom on a banana, but his Bonk promised to show Henry again—with a cucumber—when he was ready.

But there was more than just using condoms. You have to buy them. No, you. YOU have to be responsible for your own safety, and don’t expect your partner to have to pay for them. Especially if your partner is a woman, because she has to deal with a whole different kind of birth control. If you are in a relationship, ask if you should help pay for her birth control too or ask what you can do to help. Henry knew about some of this from his mom, but when Drake and Bonk explained why it was so important to take care of the other person, he better understood that it was his responsibility as a man to protect his partner.

And even though Henry was still so young, Bastien and Drake gave him a PG-13 version of “Good, Giving, Game.” He could always ask them more questions as he got older.

… . .

When Rinda first got her period, she didn’t tell her parents. Instead, she just used her mom’s oversized tampons, even though they were too big and hurt her to use them. But at least Rinda had been exploring her body and knew where it should go. She knew to take a deep breath to relax, and she wiggled and adjusted her position until the oversized wad of cotton surrounded by an uncomfortable cardboard cylinder was mostly inside her. Then she pushed the applicator, wincing in pain as she struggled to get the tampon further into her vagina.

Key words being “mostly” and “further.” The tampon obviously wasn’t in the correct position, and it hurt to sit down.

The next day Rinda talked to her best friend Becca, and they went to the store together to get smaller tampons with smooth glide plastic applicators. They also got some pads, because sometimes tampons hurt when you have a light flow. Becca’s mom gave the girls money to pay for everything. Even the supplies for Rinda.

A month later Rinda’s mom found out, when Rinda had to go home early from school. Rinda’s face was pale, and it hurt to stand up straight. It even hurt to walk, and she threw up in the parking lot from the pain. Her mother might have thought it was the flu, except there was a tell-tale stain between Rinda’s legs that showed as she bent over.

“Rinda! You got your period! You’re a woman now!”

Her mother didn’t yell it. She screamed it. Outside. In the school parking lot. While starting to cry tears of … reproach? Pride? Embarrassment? Rinda didn’t even know.

She only knew that she already wanted to die from the pain, and now public humiliation sealed the deal.

Rinda just wanted to be safe at home, in her bed. But her mother wanted to stop at the store since she was already out running errands. And they should get more tampons since Rinda needed them too. Her mother shook her head. No wonder she was almost out of tampons. Really. Rinda should have told her sooner.

Her mother kept talking. Rinda should get used to having severe cramps because it ran in the family. But it was usually better once you had a child. She lectured Rinda about how Rinda needed to soak her clothes in cold water so the blood wouldn’t stain. Do that immediately, as soon as they got home. But don’t let her father see them in the bathroom sink. That would be so embarrassing for him to deal with. Oh, and Rinda, you aren’t staining the backseat, are you?

Twelve-year-old Rinda was stretched out in the backseat of the car trying not to cry. If only her mother would shut the fuck up. Rinda would clean the car seat when she felt better. And she’d soak her clothes in the downstairs laundry sink. Geez. After years of fighting with her dad, Rinda thought her mom would stop leaving blood soaked underwear in the main bathroom sink and just soak them downstairs? And maybe her dad would just deal with the fact that shit happens when you’re a woman, and maybe show some empathy for the yuck that women have no control over? Fuck. This would be one more thing that she’d get dragged into when her parents had that monthly fight.

And unless Rinda got knocked up in high school, there was no way she could handle 10 plus years of these kind of cramps before she spit out a baby. And she definitely couldn’t handle 20 more minutes in the back seat of the car while her mom went into the store. Why couldn’t she just drop Rinda off and then go back to get the supplies? Her mother didn’t even need to help her. Rinda could take Midol, get the heating pad, and tuck herself into bed without any help. In fact, she preferred to do it herself. Alone. Unbothered.

Rinda’s mom finally came out of the store, but then she ran into a friend in the parking lot. The car was so hot and Rinda hurt so bad. They weren’t allowed to give her aspirin at school. Maybe her mom bought aspirin or Midol? Rinda reached for the knob to roll down the window, but her arm felt so heavy. Her whole body felt heavy, and it felt like anything that was between her legs was going to just fall out if she had to stand up. And the pain. The pain was a combination of a sharp stabbing and a deep ache as she sat up, yelling to her mom to get her attention, asking if she had any aspirin.

Her mom didn’t hear her. She was too busy talking to her friend. When Rinda yelled louder, her mom rolled her eyes and announced to her friend that Rinda got her period. She was so proud of Rinda, even though she was obviously very moody right now.

Her mom kept talking. It could have been a few more minutes, but it felt like a lifetime. Rinda couldn’t find a comfortable position, no matter how hard she tried. On her knees. On her back, knees to her chest. Now legs spread for passers-by to stare at her stains. Nothing worked. She needed pain killers, and she needed to be in bed with a heating pad.

Rinda began to sob. She heard stories about dads who took their daughters on a special father-daughter date night to a fancy restaurant. Just the two of them, and the father would open the door for his daughter. Pull out her chair. Begin to treat her like a young lady, modeling some of the behavior she should expect from the young men or women who would soon line up for dates. Some of her friends even got jewelry, like a pair of pearl earrings or a bracelet. Nothing fancy. Just something to acknowledge their daughter’s first step toward becoming a woman.

Hell, even a purity ring at least acknowledged that a girl is becoming a woman, even if it was just a reminder that sex was a sin until marriage. Or an open and closed discussion about sex that left the daughters at the mercy of friends to find out about how sex and pregnancy worked. It’s not like Rinda had that kind of relationship with her parents anyways. At least a ring could be a sign that they somewhat cared, even if it was a reminder that she better not fuck up and get knocked up before she was done with school.

Some of the moms gave their daughters a special care package with Midol, raspberry and peppermint tea bags, a heating pad, ice cream, and an expensive chocolate bar. Or they’d do a spa day.

But Rinda? She was stuck in the backseat of the car, praying her mother would shut the fuck up and take her home. But when she got home, her mom would probably tell her dad. That would be the worst. He’d probably make some insensitive joke about things that bleed for days and don’t die. Oh, and he’d end with a comment that she’d better not get knocked up before she became someone’s wife.

… . .

Eventually Rinda got home. She took Motrin and cleaned herself up while her mom called friends and family to share the private news with everyone. Rinda was too exhausted to be humiliated. And when she opened the bag and saw that her mom bought the same tampons—large with the cardboard applicator—she was too defeated to even cry. It didn’t matter that every other woman in the world seemed to know that teenagers need smaller tampons with easy applicators.

Oh, but wait. Her mother did buy something for her. Large, oversized overnight pads that were the size of a diaper. Rinda rolled her eyes. Her mom was probably afraid Rinda would lose her virginity by using a tampon. Although it wouldn’t surprise Rinda if the huge tampons she used already popped her cherry.

She pulled the large sanitary pad out of the package, removed the protective strip from the adhesive, and tried to position the huge pad in her underwear. It was impossibly big and Rinda knew between her waddling with a diaper between her legs and the obvious pad line bulk when she wore pants, it would be obvious when she had her period. And the individual pad packages were too big to discreetly stick up her sleeve or slip  in a pocket when she needed to change it at school. It was clear she would have to get more tampons and liners by herself, using her babysitting money. The health teacher already scolded Rinda for asking so often. “Rinda Derossiers.” This was followed by a loud sigh. “You need to be responsible and be prepared. You have to carry your own sanitary products at all times, because your cycle is going to be irregular for awhile.” Rinda’s cheeks flamed with embarrassment and she hung her head in shame as the teacher continued to berate her. It wasn’t that Rinda forgot. It’s just that she didn’t have access to anything age appropriate. Not before Becca’s mom helped her buy supplies, and not now, because her mom was clueless about what to buy and Rinda was too embarrassed to say anything.

When Rinda woke up later that evening she shuffled into the kitchen to make hot chocolate. She felt better, but there was still a dull ache and it hurt to move. Her dad followed her into the kitchen and was about to hug her, but then he suddenly pulled back and stared at her awkwardly. Rinda crossed her arms over her quickly, overly budding chest and self-consciously crossed her right leg in front of her left in case she had a stain that he could see. Her dad knew Rinda wouldn’t make eye contact with him or say anything, so finally he spoke. “So, cramps suck, huh?”

Rinda just nodded. It was her dad’s awkward way of acknowledging that she was growing up and he was trying to showing empathy for what she now had to deal with. It was far from perfect, but she’d take it.

… . .

It was Grandma Lorinda who did everything right. She took Rinda shopping to buy boxes and boxes of small tampons, liners, and regular-sized pads that she could take home. She had winked at Rinda. “Just slip the boxes under your bed. It seems like a lot, but they go faster than you’d think. And you can always call me when we need to buy more.” She also bought Rinda a nice “grown up” dress before they stopped for giant ice cream sundaes at the end of the day. The next week, Grandma Lorinda took Rinda out for high tea at a fancy restaurant in Milwaukee. Then they went to the ballet. It was Rinda’s first time doing any of that, and it was one of the most special days of her life.

But she still secretly wished her father had done something special to celebrate with her. To help her feel like a daughter who should now be cherished as a young woman and not a child. Even a day where the two of them went fishing, where he would hand Rinda her first beer to drink with him. Anything. Because he was the parent who truly cared, even though he usually sucked at showing it.

… . .

If she and Jameson had a girl, Rinda knew Jameson would have done it right, even if Rinda needed to coach him a little. Rinda knew that if they had a daughter, Jameson would be wrapped around her little finger and he do everything to show his little girl how much she was loved. And cherished.

But that wasn’t how life turned out.

Instead, Rinda and Bastien had Henry … and Évelyne. Bonk would do anything for his son, but Evelyne definitely had her Papa in knots as he tried to hang the moon for his precious daughter every night.

… . .

Rinda and Évelyne had the house to themselves while Bastien, Drake, and Henry had their guy time. Évelyne wasn’t even two yet, and Rinda wasn’t a “girly girl,” but she still spent the week spoiling her daughter with mother-daughter time.

She sat patiently as Évelyne tried to comb through Rinda’s curls, even though her eyes were tearing from pain. With a little help Évelyne also managed to put some barrettes in her mom’s now frizzed out hair. The result was an extra-special troll doll mess. When Rinda was finished putting Évelyne’s curls into an unruly up-do complete with a purple princess rhinestone tiara, she sent a picture of both of them to Bastien. He quickly responded that he was lucky to have such beautiful girls, and he couldn’t wait to come home to them. Évelyne squealed when Rinda read Papa’s message to both of them. When Évelyne pointed to herself and said “boo-ful,” Rinda’s heart actually ached with her happiness. Évelyne would grow up with the confidence that she never had as a child.    

Évelyne also tried painting her mom’s nails. And fingers. And the table. And then she insisted on painting her own toenails. And toes. And feet. And carpet. Rinda even bought pet-friendly nail polish so Évelyne could try painting Ollie’s claws.

That evening they invited Gopa Ariti* over for a tea party, and they used his Madeline’s fancy tea set. Rinda helped Évelyne get dressed in her favorite yellow princess outfit, complete with a green and pink feathered boa. She was still wearing her tiara, and she insisted on staying barefoot so Gopa could see her pretty toenails.

Gopa made a production of complimenting Évelyne on her pretty dress and sparkly toenails. He was impressed that Évelyne did it all by herself. And Ollie’s nails looked nice too. And he gave Rinda a wink when he told Évelyne that her mom’s hair and nails were pretty too. When it was time for the tea party, Gopa helped Évelyne into her special chair and he showed her how to place her napkin in her lap, chuckling when Évelyne threw it back at him. Rinda helped Évelyne with her fancy tea cup so she wouldn’t break it and hurt herself, and Gopa exaggeratedly dabbed at her mouth with a napkin and said “aaaaahhhhh!” every time she took a drink. Évelyne couldn’t stop giggling.

Rinda had never been happier. A husband who loved her and their children more than anything else in this world. Bastien constantly reinforced how much he loved and cherished them, and she knew he would protect them all of them with his life. They also had Uncle Drake and Gopa Ariti, men who were also strong role models and absolute marshmallows at heart. They were also there to spoil Henry and Évelyne, and help them grow up to be good people.

When Évelyne became a woman, Rinda knew Bastien would be heartbroken that his little girl was growing so fast, but she also knew he would do something to celebrate the occasion. Something to show his daughter how much he cherished her and how proud he was of the young woman she was becoming. Rinda knew when the time came, he would do it right.

And he did.


A/N: Gopa is the Lykel family’s way of shortening “Geleibter Opa.” It’s German for “beloved grandpa.”

Protect and Serve (revised) 2

Following on from Bastien’s confession of his feelings for Sophia - what will her reaction be?

In this AU, Bastien is loyal, efficient and decent, just as he should be.

Bastien’s Confession Part 2

Do you think I’ be so rude as to eat a guest’s dessert? There was an agonising pause which he had to break with another reply. Come down and find out.

On my way

He rose, swiftly putting on boxer briefs and dressing gown. After a while there was a soft knock on the door and he went and opened it to see her standing there, also wearing a dressing gown, holding a spoon, a winsome smile on her face.

‘Sophia…’ He drew her in and closed the door, wrapping his arms around her, inhaling the scent of her hair, her soft curves moulding into him. She was a little shorter than him and her head nestled into his shoulder comfortably. She relaxed into him, sighing softly and they stayed there for a few moments. When she pulled away and raised her face to his he couldn’t stop smiling as he pushed her hair back off her face and leaned down to kiss her full on the lips, cradling her face in his hands. She rose to meet him, the kiss soft and tender. His heart hammered and his head swam, leaving him as giddy as a teenager.

‘So – dessert?’ she prompted.

‘I’m afraid it’s in the ice box – in my bedroom.’ he said apologetically ‘I can bring it out to the lounge if you like.’

‘There’s no need for that. Just take me to it.’ Her tone was husky, her pupils large. He took her hand and led the way to his bedroom. It was significantly different to the lounge - oak panelled like his office, the bare boards of the floor dark and varnished, a rug beside the bed. There was a desk beside the window with a padded swivel chair. One wall was taken up by wardrobe and cupboard doors and a dressing table where he left his cufflinks, comb and clothes brush lying, neatly positioned. He fetched the dessert from the ice box next to the desk, and she boldly sat on the edge of the bed. She kicked off her shoes, letting her bare legs dangle enticingly. She arched an eyebrow.

‘Aren’t you having any?’

‘I most certainly am – may I have the spoon?’ Puzzled, she handed it to him, realisation dawning on her face as he sat on the swivel chair and wheeled it across so he sat in front of her. He dug into the rich dark mouse and held out the laden spoon for her to taste. Silently they shared the dessert, one after the other, eyes locked on every mouthful, on every look of surprise and pleasure, every lick of their lips until the dish was empty. He ran his finger round the inside to get the last trace and held it out for her with a challenging smile. Eagerly she took it into her mouth and sucked, her eyes never leaving his. He felt heat in his groin and saw her eyes darken.

He cupped her cheek in his hand and leaned forward to press his lips to hers, a taste of the dessert still lingering. Without breaking the kiss, carefully he got off the chair and moved toward her. Together they lay side by side on the bed, kissing softly, hands starting to explore each others’ contours. He relished the discovery of her soft breasts and the curve of her hip and soft belly. Respectfully he steered clear of sneaking a hand under her dressing gown, letting her set the pace. Their soft kisses deepened, lips opening and tongues exploring, and he felt himself harden.

Sophia ran her fingers through his hair and down to the back of his neck, circling to his collarbone and pressed her palm to his chest. He felt her start to search for bare flesh, smoothing down over his abs but not venturing any lower. He shifted, hoping to keep the secret of his size a little longer. He was large in every way – not unmanageable, but generous in length and girth.

Thankfully she stopped for breath, and rolled away from him a little. He reached out to feel the softness of her blonde hair, gazing into her eyes. She didn’t flinch, returning his scrutiny and smiling.

‘You took me by surprise. I didn’t think you were attracted to me. You’re a busy man, Bastien, and hard to read.’ He chuckled in reply.

‘To be fair, at first we were pretending to be attached, so that couldn’t have been easy to interpret. Tell me - what drew you to me?’

‘Everything.’ She said simply. ‘Just a little frisson at first, then you grew on me.’

‘Everything? I’m not perfect, Miss Turner.’

‘Nobody is, but I’ve not found anything against you so far.’ She ran her finger along his jaw. ‘Seeing you in the pool clinched it for me. You looked like Poseidon emerging.’

‘I do feel at home in the water. I lived by the sea as a child and learned to swim very young.’

‘Didn’t you feel anything before I bounced you in the training hall?’

‘I liked you the minute I set eyes on you, but I knew you were a lot younger than me and didn’t presume to think you’d be interested. Not only that, but if I knew, and didn’t have such a demanding job, we might have ended up here much sooner.’

‘I’ve not long come out of a relationship.’ She confessed. ‘I was glad to be somewhere different, get my teeth into a new job. I wasn’t really looking for anything, so I was genuinely irritated getting hit on so much.’

‘I could tell. Cordonian men don’t hold back – and neither do the women.’ Sophia’s expression changed.

‘Well that explains a few things. I think I had a few more propositions than I realised.’

‘I was pleased when you said you’re attracted to men.’ Bastien murmured, and kissed her again. He pulled gently at the belt to her silky dressing gown. ‘May I? She bit her lip mischievously.

‘Please do.’ Softly he pulled at the garment, revealing a silky slip and slid his hand under it, over her belly and up to let his palm glide over her breasts. ‘Mmmm, that’s nice.’ she breathed as he bent over her to kiss along her jawline and down to her collarbone. She rolled toward him, letting her knee rest on his thigh. He felt along her side, down to her thigh, feeling the side seam of her panties. Her hand went to his belly, sliding down…

‘Wait..’ he cautioned, but saw her eyes widen in shock as she found her target.

‘Bastien, you’re – you’re pretty big.’ He rolled over on his back in resignation.

‘I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have let you get so far. I usually give my partners a warning.’

‘It’s okay, it was just a surprise.’ She answered. He ran his fingers through his hair.

‘Sophia, I’m not going to make love to you tonight, but it’s not because I don’t want to. The truth is, it’s not easy for most to accommodate me.’

‘I would imagine so’ He turned over to meet her gaze.

‘Indeed. I have to plan the first time with a new partner. I’ve never hurt anyone, though there was one time I had to give up on full penetration. Every other time, it just took time and patience to allow my partner to stretch for me. Every woman I’ve slept with has come back for more – sex isn’t just penetration. I promise you I have a lot more to offer.’

‘I’m glad to hear it.’ They fell silent for a while, the mood broken. ‘Can I stay and sleep with you tonight?’

‘As long as we don’t sleep naked I think I can remain chaste – can you?’

‘I’m willing to give it a try.’ He sat up and took his dressing gown off, wearing only his boxer briefs and pulled back the covers, getting in and beckoning her. She took her gown off too and slipped into bed beside him. She lay on her side, putting her arm over his chest and nuzzling into his shoulder. He turned off the light and listened to her breathing.

After a while, Sophia realised he was muttering under his breath.

‘What’s that?’ she asked, and he sighed.

‘I’m reciting all the duchies of Cordonia and all the Dukes and Duchesses so that I don’t give in to temptation. It also bores me to tears and helps me to get to sleep.’ She laughed softly.

‘I’m sorry Bastien, I can go back to my room if you like.’

‘No, just turn your back to me please.’ She did as she was told, and he turned toward her to spoon her, throwing his arm over her side and resting his hand on her hip. She sniggered slightly

‘Now I know how much you’d like to go further.’

‘Shhh temptress, go to sleep. I’ve a busy day tomorrow.’ Sophia closed her eyes and smiled to herself. She liked the word ‘temptress’ and resolved to live up to it…

——

Bastien woke bright and early, opening his eyes to see Sophia fast asleep beside him, lying on her back with her arms thrown out, dusky blonde hair spread out on the pillow and her face serene. He wasn’t as young as he used to be, and it was less common for him to awake aroused – but this morning he had reason to be. He slipped out of bed carefully, going to the bathroom and closing the door quietly before taking a cold shower, which solved one problem. The other one was whether to wake her or leave her sleeping. It was a long time since he’d woken with a woman in his bed, and a rare occasion generally as he didn’t like sharing his living space.

The decision was made for him as she stirred and stretched. He went to kneel on the bed and lean over to kiss her forehead. He felt his heart skip as her green eyes locked onto his and a slow smile came to her lips, closely followed by his name. Her voice was husky and he couldn’t think of a better thing to greet him first thing in the morning. He had a sudden vision of them lying together, limbs tangled. She reached up to feel the scratch of his beard on her palm. It took a supreme effort of will not to slip under the covers with her, but he needed to go training and he didn’t want to hurry things between them.

‘Sophia.’ her name fell from his lips effortlessly and he realised that now he had admitted his attraction there was no limit to how deep he was falling. ‘I’m going to the training hall, how about you?’ She sat up and blinked sleepily ‘Do you want me to see you back to your room? Are you concerned about being seen?’ She smiled at him and stretched.

‘We started the ball rolling by making sure we’d be seen. We’ve no reason to hide. I’ll be fine.’

‘Now I have a real reason to call out anyone who ogles you or makes a pass. I realise that’s a little chauvinistic - would it offend you?’

‘No, that would be very gallant of you. I do like a little chivalry.’ she grinned. He got up, resolved to get dressed before temptation lured him any further.

‘I have to go. I expect you in the training hall in fifteen minutes, and I warn you that I show no favouritism there.’

Note - this is an extract from a series which I am revising. You can read it from the start here

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Protect and Serve (revised)

Captain of the King’s Guard Bastien Lykel admits his attraction to Sophia Turner, newly employed by King Constantine and Queen Regina as the social season to find a Queen for Crown Prince Liam kicks off.

In this AU, Bastien is all he should be - loyal, efficient and devilishly attractive.

This is an extract from my TRR AU fic featuring Bastien Lykel and introducing his love interest. Part Two to be posted very soon. Nothing too adult in this chapter, but it gets smuffy so NO UNDER 18s

Introduction. Sophia has had some trouble with nobles and royalty making passes at her. She asks the head of security for help, and he suggests that they pretend to be an item to deter them, which she agrees to. One evening he invites her for dinner in his apartment in the servant’s wing where she also lives.

Sophia didn’t have long to get ready to go to Bastien’s quarters for dinner so she swiftly showered and put on a dress that she’d thought might be useful for socialising. It was nothing special, she thought, but it made a change from her usual slim legged jeans or slacks, blouse and jacket. She didn’t really have much else that was different.

She knocked on his door punctually at seven as he had asked, and he opened the door into a small hallway with two doors leading off it which she presumed to be the lounge and the bedroom. He was casually dressed in suit trousers, an open necked shirt with a thin woollen sweater and looked very much at ease.

‘Sophia, how was your day – not too taxing I hope?’ He took her jacket and ushered her into the neatly furnished living area. It was light and airy with a view over the courtyard, whereas her own room on the floor above looked the opposite way toward the stables. An easy chair and couch faced the fireplace and TV screen, and there was room for a small dining table under the window. A shelving system groaned with books and trophies and a sideboard sported a selection of spirits and a compact but modern music system. The décor was simple and fresh, the floor boards bare save for a couple of rugs in a concession to comfort. Ther was a small kitchenette are with a breakfast bar off to one side of the room

‘It was busy but it was good to keep working. I helped housekeeping to tidy up and serve dinner.’ Bastien went to the breakfast bar, where two glasses were set out.

‘Will you have a drink? I can offer red or white wine – the white will complement the main course if you just want to stick to one thing.’

‘Yes please,  white will be fine. I expect your day was busy too.’ He went to the fridge for the wine.

‘On and off. I was on point for a lot of the time so it wasn’t too taxing.’

‘On point?’ she asked as he handed her a glass and started to pour.

‘Oh I’m sorry – basically just staying close to the King and observing.’ She took a sip of the wine, finding it cool and crisp. ‘The food is ready, cook sent a trolley so we won’t be disturbed.’ He pulled a chair out for her. ‘Please sit.’ He turned his gaze to her attire, his grey eyes scanning over her, making her feel a little hot.

‘I don’t think I’ve seen you in a dress before.’

‘It’s not very practical when I’m working, and it seemed fitting to wear it tonight.’

‘I’m flattered that you wore it. Cook sent melon with parma ham, I hope that’s acceptable.’ They settled down to eat and talked about their day. The main course was pasta with a creamy sauce with flaked fish, and Sophia tucked in with relish. She declined dessert, saying she’d rather let her dinner settle for a while before she had anything sweet. They settled down with their drinks – Bastien in his recliner, Sophia sitting comfortably on the couch.

‘Sophia, I thought it expedient to discuss our arrangement. I respect that you want to I quote ‘find your feet’ in your job before you consider any emotional entanglements, and I feel that may be something to do with your cultural norms. You are English, and from what I have seen with others from your country, you are reserved and don’t express your emotions easily.’ He toyed with his glass, looking at the amber liquid ‘I know affairs are not uncommon amongst the English, but I gather that such matters can cause a lot of upset and emotional turmoil.’ He looked at her with his piercing grey eyes ‘Here in Cordonia we have a more Mediterranean outlook on affairs of the heart. This may be difficult for you to accept, but I’d like to explain a little more – are you comfortable with that?’

‘I’m in a foreign country, I appreciate that your customs are different. Anything you can tell me is welcome if it helps me adjust and fit in with my work mates.’ Bastien widened his legs and leaned forward, his elbows on his knees.

‘First of all, allow me to explain about marriages in Cordonia, and other matters will follow.’ Again he paid attention to his glass, tracing the cut glass patterns at the base ‘It’s not unknown – in fact its very common for married couples to have lovers or partners outside the marriage – of either sex. As long as their spouse is aware and there are no secrets, it’s considered quite normal. Marriage is seen as a safe harbour for children to grow up supported and safe.’ Sophia took a sip of her drink, her stomach tightening a little. He looked up at her, his gaze solemn but with a trace of warmth.

‘All this means that in general, Cordonians are very free in expressing their desires – as you witnessed at the hands of several of the men, and I’m sorry if that distressed you. However, I hope you can adjust and realise it’s not meant to be threatening – the men that approached you simply found you attractive and hoped you would return their affections.’ Sophia interrupted him.

‘Thankyou for that Bastien. I said I could handle it, it was just – distracting, that’s all, and I’m grateful for your help. I’m not a damsel in distress, as I explained I didn’t want to jeopardise my position here. I’m learning fast.’ she swallowed, thinking that perhaps he had tired of  their arrangement, and she realised she didn’t want that. She dropped her gaze to her glass, watching the bubbles form and rise and pop. Vaguely she heard Bastien saying her name.

‘Sophia, look at me please.’ She slowly did as she was told, meeting his gaze. His expression was soft and friendly.

‘Sophia, I’ve asked you here to find out if we need to redefine our arrangement. There is quite an age difference - I’m ten years older than you – but you’ve told me that you find that attractive. You strike me as very self reliant, and that is important. My job means I often keep irregular hours and am sometimes away for days or weeks. That is partly why I found you a position within the court while it travels, to keep you close, because I find that…’ He twisted his glass in his grasp ‘I find that I like your company, and bluntly put, I’m attracted to you.’

Sophia caught her breath as he held her gaze, grey eyes piercing green. She felt her blood surging in her veins, her head growing light. She stood up, uncertain of what to do, but that made her even more light headed so she sat down again. He put his glass on the coffee table.

‘Forgive me, I’ve shocked you. I should have chosen neutral ground to speak to you, been more gentle. Please forgive me.’ She wanted to answer but her mouth was dry so she took a swig of her drink, her hand shaking. She found herself choking and Bastien swiftly came to her side to take her glass and pat her on the back. After a while she regained her breath and he rested his hand on her back, making smooth circles with his palm until she spoke

‘I – Bastien, that was the last thing I expected.’ she admitted. ‘I thought you’d gotten tired of babysitting me, or you were too busy to carry on. I need some time to think about this.’ He sat away from her.

‘I understand. Whatever you decide, I will respect. The job offer is open, or you can remain here when the court moves out – it’s entirely your decision. Your answer won’t affect your position here. I won’t take advantage of you.’ She turned toward him, trying to stay calm.

‘Thankyou Bastien, you’re very considerate. I – I do have feelings for you but I have to work out what they are and if it’s realistic to go any further. Our work situation…’

‘Is not a problem as far as I’m concerned, as long as you realise that I’m not always available, and there are things I can’t discuss. You seem as if you’re happy with your own company and don’t expect to be cossetted. I’ve had work affairs before and it has never stood in my way. You must understand that for me, work comes first.’ Sophia drew a deep breath.

‘I think perhaps I should go back to my room.’

‘Of course, will you allow me to take you there?’ he asked. She reached for her bag and jacket, and the guard went to open the door to the vestibule. He kept his distance and let her out into the hall, following and closing the door behind him. They walked in silence up the stairs as her thoughts whirled in her head – it felt odd for him to be following her as it was usually the reverse. She turned to him when they reached her door and he leaned on the door frame, pausing as though he was going to move closer, then pulling away.

‘Thankyou for dinner, Bastien. I’ll think about what you said – and I’ll try not to keep you waiting. I appreciate I need to make a decision about the job as soon as possible.’ She barely dared to say anything about the attraction between them, his confession had been so sudden. He raised his eyebrows.

‘Please Sophia, don’t be afraid of hurting my feelings. I won’t take any decision you make personally. It’s a huge part of my job to remain impartial and objective.’ She smiled awkwardly, thinking that every word he spoke made her fall for him more – beyond the physical attraction she felt, he was respectful, honourable and patient. She could tell him that right now, but she needed breathing space.

‘I hope it won’t come to that. I’ll let you know soon, I promise.’ When the door was closed she leaned her back against it. She realised that the attraction between them had grown into something undeniable. Knowing that he felt somewhat the same – what should she do? Her head called for caution, but her body reminded her how long it had been since she had been in a physical relationship.

TO BE CONTINUED

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Heads up for TRR Bastien fans - I’ve been reworking my TRR AU Protect and Serve series and have more or less rewritten the scene where he admits his feelings for his LI Sophia Turner. I’ll post it on Valentine’s day (it’s smuffy) so keep your eyes peeled!

If you haven’t read this AU, my Bastien is the Captain of the Royal Guard that Cordonia deserves - upright, loyal, efficient and ruthless, not the travesty TRH turned him into. No under 18s please.

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