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Post by celticgirl91 on Jul 14, 2010 21:48:30 GMT -5
Bridget Kildare had always been attracted to the man she worked for. He was young, handsome, and a prince. Who wouldn't be attracted? But due to her status in the castle, her being attracted to him was not the best situation to be in. Bridget was a maid. Her primary job was to take care of his bedroom quarters and to keep them clean. Some of her minor duties though, included other cleaning and a few kitchen duties. But the living quarters of Prince Ryan were her main responsibility. If his rooms were not perfect at all times, it was her fault. And it was for this reason that she noticed him so much. How could she not? She was the one who set hot tea by his bedside when he woke up. She was the one who picked up his clothes and made his bed. She was the one who kept his fire going, she put water in the wash basin for him, she laid out his clothes for the next day. And all this was just a fraction of what Bridget did. It was 8 am on a Monday morning and Bridget was standing at her usual post, outside Prince Ryan's doors, waiting for him to awake. She had the tray of tea in her hands and she was standing next to Prince Ryan's personal valet, Connor. Brendan was the one that followed Prince Ryan around all day, tending to his personal needs. And if the Prince didn't wake by 10 minutes after 8, it was Connor's job to wake him to ensure that he stayed on schedule. The two were standing outside the door quietly, waiting. After about 3 minutes, Bridget heard the prince stirring. "Connor", came the quiet call, the Prince's voice rough and gravely from sleep. Connor smiled at Bridget. "Time to start the day", he said softly as he turned to open the door. Bridget smiled back. "Aye." She turned and followed Connor into the room, keeping her eyes lowered. But even though her eyes were lowered, she could see Prince Ryan sitting up in bed. His dark hair was all tossled from sleep and his muscles rippled under his tunic as he stretched. The top of his tunic was also untied, so Bridget could see part of his chest. She carefully set the tea down on the bedside table and went to draw back the heavy curtains. "Good morning, my Prince", she heard Connor greet the young man. "I trust you slept well?" "Aye, very well", Prince Ryan replied. "What's on the schedule for today?" Bridget moved around the room, doing her chores quietly. She didn't get any recognition from the prince, and she didn't expect any. She was only a maid, she wasn't supposed to be seen. But that didn't mean she couldn't listen, if not only to hear Prince Ryan's rough, yet charming voice. "Are you for serious??", the Prince exclaimed suddenly, causing Bridget to turn and look at him. "Yes, your Highness", Connor replied calmly. "You're younger brother, Keith's, birthday is today. Don't you remember your father's planning for the ball?" "Well, yea, but I guess I forgot it was so soon", Prince Ryan replied, scratching his head. Bridget finished her duties and went to stand next to the door. She had to wait in case Prince Ryan needed anything, then she had to clean up his clothes and make his bed after he left. Ryan went behind the screen to change, still talking about his brother's birthday. Bridget, however, had not forgotten. After she was done with her duties here, she had to go down to the kitchens, as they would need extra help to prepare for the big banquet. The Prince finished changing and exited the room, going over the days' plans with Connor. Bridget let out a breath as she surveyed the room. It was going to be a busy day.
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Post by celticgirl91 on Jul 16, 2010 0:22:32 GMT -5
There were 4 sons in the royal family. Prince Ryan, at age 31, was the oldest. Then there was Prince Paul, who was 30. Then Prince Keith, who was 24 that day, and the youngest was Prince Damian, who was 17. Bridget finished her duties in Prince Ryan’s bedroom, than hurried down to the kitchen. There was to be a huge banquet and a ball that night, to celebrate Prince Keith’s birthday. All the servants had been working overtime to get the castle looking its finest, and their hard work had paid off. The castle looked spectacular. It was perfectly cleaned and there were banners everywhere. Since all, or at least most of, the cleaning was done, Bridget was assigned to go help in the kitchens. “Bridget!”, her best friend, Colleen, called out. Colleen was one of the usual kitchen servants and had been Bridget’s best friend for years. “Hello Colleen!”, Bridget greeted as she stepped up to the basin to wash her hands. “And how are you this fine morning?” “Oh I’m alright”, Bridget shrugged. “How has your day been so far?” Bridget giggled. “It’s been good. The Prince gave me a bit of a laugh this morning” Colleen’s blue eyes sparkled, as she knew all about Bridget’s interest in Prince Ryan. “Oh really? And how is our young Prince this morning?” “He forgot his brother’s birthday”, Bridget smiled as she started pounding the dough. “The look on his face when Connor told him… it was priceless!” Colleen laughed. “Isn’t that just like a man? Oh and they need a few more servers for tonight… you know, for all those extra people, so I volunteered you.” Bridget stopped pounding the dough to look at her friend. “Me? Why?” Colleen laughed. “So you can sneak more looks at-“ “Shhh!”, Bridget tugged on Colleen’s sleeve. No one else knew about her secret feelings for Prince Ryan, and that’s the way it was going to stay. “Ooops! Sorry!”, Colleen whispered. Bridget couldn’t help but smile. Sometimes her best friend wasn’t always aware of how loud she was actually being, and Bridget loved her for it. Sometimes it got them into trouble, but mostly, Bridget just found it a part of Colleen’s charming personality. “But anyway”, Colleen continued in a softer voice. “I volunteered you so that you could get a better look at all the good looking nobles” Bridget giggled, knowing the one noble in particular that her friend was talking about. “Well, thanks”, she whispered. “But it’s not necessary. He wouldn’t notice me anyway” “Probly not”, Colleen agreed. She knew just as well as Bridget did about the status of a servant. It meant that you weren’t noticed. Not that that was Prince Ryan’s fault, it’s just how he and the others were raised. And there were millions of servants around. It was just how Palace life went. “But still, you could notice him”, Colleen made her point with a wink. Bridget giggled again. “Well thank you. It’s not every day that I get to see a handsome nobleman” Colleen waved that comment off. “Oh, you know what I mean” “Aye, I do”, Bridget replied. “Thank you” “You are very welcome”, Colleen gave a self justified nod. The rest of the day flew by for Bridget. She made pies, baked cakes, washed dishes, everything. And then, all too soon, she was told to go and get herself cleaned up and changed to help with the serving. She quickly stopped by Prince Ryan’s rooms to set out his banquet clothes and to tidy up a bit, then went off to get herself ready. Nothing of consequence happened during the banquet itself. She carried trays, and cleared plates, all the while sneaking glances at her favorite prince. He, of course, never looked her way, but she had never expected any less. After many long hours, Bridget was finally excused to go prepare Prince Ryan’s rooms for the night. She quickly changed, and then went off to his rooms to get out his night clothes and such. After a few minutes of working, the Prince came in with Brendan, talking about the festivities of that night. “So, get plenty of rest, and I will see you in the morning, my Prince”, Connor was saying. “Yes, of course”, Prince Ryan responded, sitting on the bed to remove his shoes. “Goodnight Connor.” “Goodnight Highness”, Connor bowed and started moving back toward the door. He glanced up at Bridget and gave her a small smile of goodnight just as he closed the door. Bridget smiled to herself and moved to get the firewood, to make sure the Prince’s fire was stoked for the night. But just as she stood up to carry the heavy crate, her dress caught under her shoe. And all of a sudden, Bridget felt herself falling.
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Post by celticgirl91 on Jul 18, 2010 17:13:19 GMT -5
Bridget felt herself trip on the hem of her skirt and knew she was going to fall. She knew it, yet there was nothing she could do to stop it. The wood she had been carrying flew out of her hands as she braced herself to hit the floor. The wood made a loud clattering and she cried out as she fell. She felt a sudden stab of pain in her ankle and she hit the ground with a thud. Then she heard a gasp of surprise. A male gasp. “Whoa! Are you all right?”, Prince Ryan jumped up from the bed where he had been taking off his shoes and rushed to her. Bridget lay on the floor, not moving. She wasn’t exactly sure why she didn’t move. Part of it was out of humiliation, she had just fallen in front of the prince! And the other part was because she really WAS hurt. “Are you okay?”, the Prince asked again. He was kneeing down beside her, his blue eyes inches away from her green ones. “I’m so sorry, Highness!”, Bridget immediately started apologizing as she sat up. “I didn’t mean- I don’t know what I was thinking! I should have looked where I was going!” Humiliation washed over her as she realized what she had done. But the Prince chuckled a bit, his smile warm and forgiving. “Shh… there’s nothing to be sorry for. You tripped, is that such a terrible crime?” Bridget took a deep breath and tried to calm herself down. At least enough until she could freak out privately in her own rooms. “Here, let me help you up”, Prince Ryan said kindly, taking her hands. Bridget took his large hands in hers and tried to stand. This failed, however, when she tried to put weight on her left foot. She gasped and lost her balance, nearly falling back down again, until the Prince steadied her against her firm chest. “Whoa… careful now”, he said in a low voice. “Can you put weight on your foot at all?” “I’m so sorry, Highness”, Bridget exclaimed when putting pressure on said foot didn’t work. “Let me just get one of the guards”, she insisted. Prince Ryan smiled in an amused way. “And just how are you going to do that when you can’t walk? Here”, he helped her over to one of his couches and sat her down. “Let me see”, he said as he knelt in front of her. The Prince lifted the bottom of Bridget’s dress and felt her ankle. Bridget clenched her jaw, telling herself that she wouldn’t make a sound. Prince Ryan rotated her foot and felt at the bone. “I think it’s just twisted”, he announced after a minute. “Does it hurt?” “Only when I step on it”, Bridget replied. “I really will be ok”, she said again. “I think I can make it to my rooms and it should be good by morning.” Prince Ryan stood up. “Yes, it should be. I’ll get one of the guards to help you”, he moved toward the door. “Alex”, he called. “Will you help… I’m sorry, I don’t even know your name”, his voice was apologetic. “It’s Bridget”, she replied as Alex came in to help her. “Once again Highness, I am truly sorry. I didn’t mean to disturb your evening, I should have been more careful” “It’s fine”, he smiled. “It was an accident” “Goodnight”, both Bridget and Alex bowed as they left the room. “Oh my goodness!”, Bridget immediately sank against Alex as soon as the door was closed. How could she have been so stupid? So careless? “Are you okay?”, Alex noticed her red face. “Of course I’m not!”, she exclaimed to the familiar guard. “I just humiliated myself in front of the prince!” “You only fell, right?”, Alex asked. “That’s not so bad. At least you didn’t bump into one of the suits of armor and make it crash on top of him” Bridget looked at the younger man in surprise. “Did you do that?” Now Alex laughed. “No. But it could happen, couldn’t it?” “I suppose….” “Come on, let’s get you to your rooms”, Alex comforted her. “And lay down the rest of the night. Hopefully you’ll be all better by tomorrow” Bridget’s red, embarrassed face went pale. That’s right… she would have to face the prince in the morning.
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Post by celticgirl91 on Jul 20, 2010 21:13:40 GMT -5
Ryan chuckled to himself as he started picking up the wood that the girl had dropped. What was her name…? Bridget. The name fit her, he thought. From her bright green eyes, to her red-brown curly hair. She had seemed so flustered, so embarrassed to have fallen in front of him. She shouldn’t be worried though, he didn’t care. It wasn’t the first time a servant had screwed up in front of him, and it wouldn’t be the last. He smiled again as her worried face came to his mind. He had to admit, she was gorgeous. Why had he never noticed her before? He knew the answer as soon as the question came to him. It was because she was a servant, and a good one at that. Servants weren’t supposed to be seen. Oh sure, he had known she was there, but he hadn’t given it much thought. Ryan put the wood in the grate and finished changing for bed, trying to put the scene out of his mind. He had a meeting with his father the next day. He hated meetings with his father. He needed to concentrate on staying sane. And with that thought, he fell asleep. The next morning, Ryan woke and called for Connor, just as he always did. Connor walked in, his head bowed, with Bridget following behind him. And when Ryan saw her, all the memories from last night came rushing back. Bridget walked in with her head also bowed, and went straight to the curtains. “Good morning, Highness”, Connor greeted, just like usual. “Morning Connor”, Ryan replied, stretching. “Good morning, Bridget”, he added without the slightest hesitation. He knew her name now. There was no need to be rude. But his words stopped both Bridget and Connor dead in their tracks. “Morning, Highness”, Bridget replied smoothly, adding a curtsey. “How is your ankle this morning?” It didn’t look like she was limping, but Ryan still needed to be sure. Bridget smiled. “It’s perfectly fine. I think you were right, it was just twisted.” “Well, I’m glad it’s better”, Ryan said, smiling. “So what’s on the schedule for today Connor?”, he turned to the confused lad. Connor blinked, trying to figure out Ryan and Bridget’s conversation, but then shook his head. “A meeting with your father after breakfast, lunch with a guest, archery with your cousin, a meeting with the Duke of Derry, dinner, then socializing” Ugh…. Ryan groaned to himself, it was going to be another busy day. “Alright”, he responded, going behind the screen to change. And for the first time, he was aware of Bridget’s presence in the room as he changed. It didn’t matter, she couldn’t see him. But still… the feeling lingered. He pulled on his royal cape and stepped out from behind the screen. “By any chance, do you know what my father wants?”, he asked Connor. Connor shook his head. “He didn’t say. You’ll be alright though, just control your temper.” Ryan nodded. “Aye, that would probably help. We don’t want things to end up like last time.” Last time he had met with his father, Ryan had lost his temper. And then he had been sent away on some business trip against his will. He didn’t need that again. “You ready?”, he asked. “Whenever you are”, Connor bowed his head slightly. “Alright, let’s go then”, Ryan strode toward the door. “Have a good day, Bridget”, he said to her as he passed. “You as well, Highness”, she replied in a soft voice.
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Post by celticgirl91 on Jul 23, 2010 21:29:57 GMT -5
Ryan took a deep breath and knocked on the door of his father’s private meeting chambers. “Enter”, came a firm, powerful voice. Ryan rolled his eyes at the typical summons. Why couldn’t his father ever just greet him normally? Casually. Oh, that’s, right, because he was the king. He always had to make sure everyone was aware of his authority. Ryan opened the door and walked in, stopping a few feet away from his father’s desk. “Dad”, he bowed his head slightly. “Hello Ryan”, his father greeted. “I asked you to come here to discuss a matter crucial to the kingdom’s well being” No ‘how are you’, no ‘it’s good to see you’. All business, just as it’s always been. “Yes?”, Ryan kept his voice leveled. His father cleared his throat. “You are aware that you are now 31. You are also aware that I am getting older and when I die, you will become king” “Yes” “I have decided that it is time for you to take a wife” “Take a wife?”, Ryan asked. He didn’t want to take a wife. Not yet anyway. He had things that he wanted to do first, he had his whole life for a wife. Plus, he hadn’t found the right one yet. Ryan had grown up in a royal family, he had seen many arranged marriages. And he had always hated the idea. When he got married, he wanted to marry for love. “Yes, take a wife”, his father repeated. “You’re old enough that you should be married. There’s been enough of this youthful fooling around. I’d like to see some grandchildren” Ryan swallowed hard and thought for a minute. He couldn’t say anything that would anger his father. “Dad, I don’t think- I’m not quite ready to get married yet.” “And why not? You’ve had enough time to goof around, it’s time to grow up and settle down.” Ryan sighed. “I haven’t found anyone I’m interested in marrying yet. She needs to be perfect” The king laughed at that. “Perfect? You mean you want to be in love with her? Ryan, you’re a prince. And princes don’t marry for love.” Ryan bit back a sharp answer. “Besides”, his father continued. “I’m sure I could pick out someone perfect for you. Just wait til you meet her. She’s a pretty, fair maid from Dublin.” At this, Ryan blinked. “Wait, you mean you chose someone for me? Already?” “Just as an option. I didn’t say you had to marry her. Just get to know her.” Ryan’s blood started boiling, but he kept his voice calm. “Is she here?” “Yes, you’re having lunch with her” “THAT’S the guest I’m having lunch with?”, Ryan exclaimed, his voice no longer calm. “You brought her here and didn’t tell me?” The king gave him a stern look. “Yes, I did. And you will dine with her because I said so. Now, if you don’t like her, that’s fine. But you will give her a chance.” Ryan stared at the ground. “Is that all?” “Yes, you may go”, his father dismissed him. Ryan bowed slightly and left the room. “What happened?”, Connor asked as he noticed Ryan’s face. “He wants me to get married and has maiden number one waiting to have lunch with me” Connor’s eyes widened. “That’s the guest?” “Aye”, Ryan sighed. “Come on, I should go tidy up” They walked back to his chambers and there was Bridget, standing outside the door. Ryan absentmindedly wondered if she stood there all day. But he wasn’t going to ask. “Hello Bridget”, he nodded. “Highness”, Bridget curtsied. Ryan walked in the room and over to his mirror. “Do you think I should change for this lunch, Connor?” “If you would like, Highness”, Connor replied. “But I don’t think it’s going to be too formal” Ryan noticed Bridget silently going to the basin and filling it with water for him, her slender form illuminated in the sunlight. “What do you think, Bridget?”, he asked. “Do you think this outfit is okay to go meet some maiden my father picked out for me?” Bridget turned. “You look very handsome, Highness”, she responded slowly. “Any maiden would be lucky to dine with you” Ryan nodded. “Right. I’ll keep that in mind”, he went over to the basin and washed his face in the water that Bridget had so kindly poured. “I think I’m ready, no use changing.” “I agree, Highness”, Connor responded. “Good day, Bridget. Connor, let’s get this over with”, Ryan left the room and headed down to the dining hall. When he got down there, Ryan saw a beautiful maiden sitting at the table. She had pale skin and golden hair. Her blond curls reminded him of Bridget’s dark ones, although Bridget’s were far prettier. The girl stood as he came in. “Highness”, she bowed.
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Post by celticgirl91 on Aug 5, 2010 12:42:57 GMT -5
sorry! i was on vacation. but here's your update!
Bridget walked numbly from the Prince’s chambers to the kitchen. There were way too many emotions going through her, too many thoughts in her head. On the one hand… the Prince, Prince Ryan, THE Prince, was talking to her. He knew her name. He told her to have a good day. He asked her about her ankle. THE Prince! She felt as if she was about to faint. But then there was the other hand. And the other hand reminded Bridget of the Prince’s lunch plans. He was going to have lunch with a princess, probably from a foreign land. And if not a princess, then a Lady. A beautiful, rich Lady, with a long, pretty dress. “Well, did he look excited to be going to see her?”, Colleen asked. Bridget had gone down to the kitchens and had caught Colleen on her break. “No…”, Bridget tried to remember. “Well, did he was worried about what to wear. So that must mean he was excited. He even asked me for my opinion! He wanted to know if what he had on was good enough… so that’s the end. He’s going to get married. I mean, I’m just a servant, I knew he was going to get married sooner or later…” “Wait, wait, wait”, Colleen interrupted. “Calm down Bridge hun. One, it’s just a lunch. He’s only meeting her today. That doesn’t mean they’re getting married. But… I mean, you ARE a servant. He has to marry nobility.” Bridget groaned. “I know. I’m not really that far gone in liking him. It’s just that… he’s started talking to me. And I guess my imagination got the best of my mind. I’m sorry, Colleen, I’m back to reality” Colleen laughed. “Good. Now, why not set your sights a bit lower? There’s a good looking stable hand in the barns. I’ve seen him taking care of the horses.” Bridget smiled. “Maybe. I’ll think about it.” “Bridget”, Colleen leaned closer. “It’s time to stop thinking. The Prince is nice to look at and dream about, but start paying attention to what’s available too. Okay?” Bridget nodded. “Okay”
That night, Bridget was standing at her usual post outside Prince Ryan’s rooms. “And I’m going to stay that way for the next hundred years, I’m knackered”, the Prince was saying as he and Connor came down the hall. “Hello, Bridget”, he gave her a tired smile as he went into his chambers. “Highness”, she curtsied. “That sounds like a great plan, Highness”, Connor replied. “Except your family might notice if you don’t come out of your room.” “Good for them. Shows they’re observant”, Prince Ryan sighed as he took off his boots. Bridget collected the boots and got the basin of water ready, wondering what the two were talking about. Connor laughed. “Well, I guess I’ll see you in a hundred years. Good night, Highness” The Prince smiled. “Good night Connor” Connor bowed and smiled at Bridget as he left. The Prince went behind the screen to change and Bridget went about her duties. “Oh what a day”, the Prince groaned as he came out from behind the screen. He was dressed in dark pants and a baggy, white tunic, open at the chest. Bridget tried not to stare and wondered if she was supposed to respond to his comment. It would be rude not to… “Busy day, Highness?”, she asked in a soft voice. “Terribly”, Prince Ryan sat on the edge of his bed. “How was your ankle today? Give you any problems?” Bridget was touched. He was so caring, asking about something that happened yesterday. Especially since he was the Prince. Nobility never took interest in servant’s problems. “Not at all, it was fine”, she responded as she bent down to pick something off the floor. “Well… that’s good”, Prince Ryan said distractedly. Bridget turned to him and gave him a smile. “Well, have a restful night, Highness”, she bowed and turned to leave. “Bridget… wait”, came Prince Ryan’s voice. Bridget turned, thinking he must want a glass of water or something. “Yes?” The Prince was staring at her with an odd expression on his face. “Oh, it’s nothing. I’ll see you in the morning. Goodnight” “Goodnight”, Bridget curtsied again and left the room.
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Post by celticgirl91 on Aug 18, 2010 14:41:32 GMT -5
LOL! ok, ok... i'm sorry it took so long!!! and he was admiring her beauty and was going to tell her as such. but then thought better of it lol! anyway... here's the update!!
The next night, the Prince was late. Bridget was standing at her usual post 30 minutes past when he should have arrived. She hadn’t been informed that he might be late, which was odd. Usually, someone would tell her if he was due to be late, but no one had. So she waited. That was all she could do. Finally, she heard footsteps coming down the hallway. Bridget kept her head down and glanced at the figure out of the corner of her eye. It was the Prince. And he was alone, and he was not happy. Where was Connor? The Prince stormed past Bridget without his new usual greeting. Bridget, wondering what was wrong, followed him inside the room. But just because she wanted to know what was wrong, didn’t mean that she was going to ask. She was just a servant. Bridget went about her regular duties silently. She could hear Prince Ryan muttering and cursing under his breath. “How dare he… what the-“, he threw a boot against the wall and the sound of it covered the offensive word. “What gives him the right…” Bridget went about her duties, pretending to be invisible. What did Connor do? He must have done something really bad to put the prince in a mood like this. “Just why is it so important that I get married, anyway?”, Prince Ryan suddenly turned to her. Bridget was taken aback. “Umm… I’m not sure Highness” He crossed to her and took the wood from her arms and threw it to the floor. “Well, what if I don’t want to get married?”, he grabbed her shoulders. “What’ll my father do about that? Throw me out if the castle? Make Keith king? Ha! What if I just want to stay single? None of those Princesses are pretty anyway. In their poofy dresses and ridiculous hair. You’re far more beautiful than any of them! You’re the one that makes me want to abandon all form of class and take you here and now” Bridget’s eyes went wide and she felt herself go limp at his words. The Prince began to realize what he had just said, himself. He slowly released her and took a step back. “Bridget… I’m sorry. I didn’t- I didn’t mean it. No, I did. But I shouldn’t have said it like that. I was mad and I… I tend to rant when I get mad…” Bridget could only stare at him. “You meant what you just said?” Ryan looked at her for a second, a thoughtful glint in his eye. As if he was trying to decide whether or not he should tell her. He finally sighed and stepped toward her, putting his hands on her shoulders again. “I did. And not in a rude way at all. I haven’t been able to stop thinking about you ever since that night. The night you tripped,” he said. “You’ve been on my mind day and night”, he continued in a low voice. “Through all my princely duties, especially when I have to dine with stuffy girls who don’t have an intelligent thought in their head.” “Highness…” “I don’t know what it is about you, Bridget. But I want to get to know you better.” Bridget was at a loss for words. She must be dreaming. “But Highness… I’m a servant” The Prince smiled. “I know. It’s part of the reason why I like you. You actually know a few things”, he brushed a hand against her cheek. “What about your father? He definitely won’t approve” The Prince scoffed. “At the moment, I could care less. Besides, he doesn’t have to know. Come on Bridget”, his voice turned pleading. “Give us a chance. Unless.. you don’t think of me in that way at all. In which case, I’ll completely understand” “Oh no, no that’s not it”, Bridget assured him. “I- I’ve actually liked you for a long time” The Prince blinked. “You have? All this time? Why didn’t you say anything?” Bridget sighed. “How could I? You’re the prince!” A warm glow came into his eyes. “Well, not anymore. To you, I’m just Ryan” Bridget gave him a small smile. “That’s going to take some getting used to, you know” “And I have full confidence that you’ll be able to manage”, Ryan said softly as he brought his head closer to hers and kissed her. The kiss was slow and it was deep. Bridget couldn’t think. She didn’t want to. Ryan had one hand at the small of her back and the other in her hair. His lips were on hers, gently caressing. And all too soon, he pulled back. Bridget caught her breath and smiled up at him. “So, you’re not mad at Connor then?” Ryan blinked and pulled back. “Connor? What the heck does Connor have to with this?” Bridget couldn’t help but laugh.
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Post by celticgirl91 on Aug 24, 2010 22:19:53 GMT -5
“You’re joking”, Colleen said in a flat voice. The two were walking along the palace grounds and Bridget had told her the whole story. “The PRINCE?”, she asked. Bridget laughed, hugging herself to keep warm. She could hardly believe it herself. “Yes, the Prince. Although he wants me to call him Ryan now” “How are you going to manage that? Keeping it a secret and everything?” Bridget shrugged. “Ryan says it’ll be difficult and we’ll have to sneak around a lot, but we’ll make it work. And I shouldn’t worry because he won’t let anything happen to me” “Aww!”, Colleen sighed. “He sounds like an angel” “He is”, Bridget smiled. “And it’s a secret! So you can’t tell anyone” “Of course I won’t. Now, tell me, is he a good kisser?” Bridget laughed. “He’s the best…” To Bridget, there wasn’t anything better than having his lips on hers. “And do you get to see him tonight?”, Colleen asked. “I get to see him every night”, Bridget grinned, thinking about her job in the Palace. Sure enough, Bridget had a hard time keeping a straight face that night at her post. As soon as she heard Ryan’s voice as he came down the hall, she got all jittery. She wanted to run to him and give him a hug, she wanted to smile at him when he passed, she wanted to burst into song. But she couldn’t do any of that. All she could do was curtsey as Ryan approached with Connor. “Hello Bridget”, he said in his usual way. “Highness”, she curtsied. She followed him into the room, closing the door. And as soon as she did, he was there. Wrapping his arms around her and kissing her surprised lips. Bridget couldn’t help but respond, but pulled away quickly. “Ryan! What are you doing?”, she whispered, looking at Connor. Connor was standing absolutely speechless, staring at the pair of them. “Oh it’s alright!”, Ryan assured her, his hands framing her face. “He knows” Connor cleared his throat. “You said you had a surprise for me, Highness. I wasn’t expecting…” “Ryan…”, Bridget’s eyes searched his, trying to understand. She had thought this was supposed to be a secret. “Bridget”, Ryan smoothed her hair. “Connor is my right hand man. He was going to figure it out sooner or later anyway. And I know I can trust him. Right Connor?” “Of course Highness”, Connor straightened up. “It just took me by surprise, that’s all” Ryan turned back to Bridget. “So, how are you doing?”, he asked. Bridget tried to clear her head, tried to get used to this new attention from the Prince. “I’m good. But you know, I still have work to do”, she reminded him. Ryan just waved it off. “Not anymore you don’t” Bridget laughed. “Ryan, I could get in trouble. And that’s the last thing we need. So, you just go over your reports or whatever with Connor while I finish my work” Ryan reluctantly let her go and Bridget smiled as she finished up. But as soon as she was through, she was quickly back at Ryan’s side. Ryan put an arm around her and pulled her close as he finished talking to Connor. Bridget sighed and leaned into his side. She could get used to this. Ryan finished his reports and kissed the side of her head. “Okay, that should be it for tonight Connor. I’ll see you in the morning.” “Goodnight Highness”, Connor bowed. “Bridget”, he nodded at her and left the room. Ryan sighed and pulled them both backwards onto the couch. “Now then, what shall we do with you?” Bridget giggled. “Well, I suppose I should let you get your rest…”, she started to sit up, but Ryan pulled her back. “I don’t think so”, he grinned. “I think we need to finish what we started earlier” He was everything she had always wanted, everything she had always dreamed of. “Ryan”, she finally pulled back. “I have to go… people will be wondering where I am” “You’re working late”, he murmured, pulling her lips back to his. Bridget let it go for a few more minutes, but then tried again. “No, I really have to go” Ryan sighed and pulled back, looking into her eyes. “You were able to stay last night” “Yes, but I can’t stay late every night, people will be suspicious” “Can you meet me tomorrow?”, he asked. Bridget thought for a moment. “Maybe. There’s a small grove hidden in the woods about 15 minutes from here. Can you meet me there?” “What time?” “3. I can get my best friend, Colleen, to cover for me” Ryan pulled her back to him and gave her another kiss. “I’ll be there. And I’ll get Connor to cover for me.” He sighed and pulled her close. “You know… this whole dating thing is going to be kinda difficult”
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Post by celticgirl91 on Aug 25, 2010 23:35:05 GMT -5
Bridget walked through the trees, a bit uncertainly. Where was Ryan? As she walked a bit further, she saw a shadow through the trees. “Bridget”, Ryan whispered as he stepped through the thick forest. He was smiling, his white teeth standing out against his dark clothing and the dark trees around him. “Ryan!”, she half shrieked, half whispered. She ran forward and threw her arms around the man she loved. “Hello Sweetheart”, he whispered into her hair, right before he kissed her. Bridget ran her hands down his strong arms to take his hands. “Come on”, he guided her through the trees a bit until she saw a large animal. “You brought a horse?”, she asked. “And you have no idea how hard it was to get him here”, Ryan chuckled. Bridget looked at the jet black horse behind him. “He’s beautiful… but really, you couldn’t just walk?” “Not where we’re going”, he smiled. He plucked her off the ground as if she was nothing and set her on the horse. “Do you know how to ride?”, he grinned. Bridget shook her head. “Good”, Ryan swung up on the horse in front of her. “Then that means we have to ride together. Hang on” Bridget wrapped her arms around his waist and pressed up against his back, holding tightly. Ryan kicked the horse into motion and steered them out of the woods and onto a path. The horse galloped through the trees and Bridget felt her cloak billowing behind her. Ryan steered them around the woods for quite some time, until Bridget felt for sure that they were lost. But that didn’t mean she didn’t enjoy the ride. She loved feeling the shift of his legs against her own, the feel of his rippling muscles through his thin shirt. Finally, after what seemed like hours, the horse slowed to a stop. “Where are we?”, Bridget asked as Ryan helped her down. Ryan chuckled. “It’s a secret. But it’s the most secret place I know. I’m not sure anyone knows where it is, except for me.” “How did you find it?”, Bridget turned around in a circle to get a full look at the beautiful place. “Well… I was rather mischevious as a teen”, Ryan said hesitantly. “And I liked to explore in places where I wasn’t supposed to. So I’m kind of a pro at sneaking off. I just never thought that I’d have to use those skills again”, he chuckled. “Wow… this place is amazing” “I like to think so”, he took her hand and grabbed a blanket that was tied to the horse’s back. He led her to a small clearing and spread the blanket on the ground. He lay down on his side and pat the spot next to him, inviting her to sit. “So”, Bridget said as she cuddled into his strong embrace. “You brought me to this beautiful place… what are we going to do?” Ryan gave her a sly grin and made a sound at the back of his throat that made her heart nearly stop. Then he laughed at the look on her face. “Nah, as much as I would enjoy other forms of entertainment, I think we should talk.” “Talk?”, Bridget asked, stupidly. “Yes, talk” “About what?” “Anything. Because, my dear, we really don’t know all that much about each other. I’ll go first. How did you come to work at the Palace?” Bridget blinked, “Well, my mother worked there for 3 years. When she died, I took her place” Ryan’s face went blank, then immediately was full of sorrow and concern. “You’re mother died?” Bridget nodded. “When I was 16” Ryan sat up and gathered her into his arms. “Bridget, I’m so sorry”, he whispered. “No child should have to go through that” Bridget shook her head, she didn’t want to get into it. “What about you?”, she asked quickly. “What’s the best part about being a Prince?” Ryan looked at her for a long second, then decided not to push the subject. “The only best part about it is good food and not having to live in the streets”, he said. “There are many disadvantages to being a Prince, and the first one is laying in my arms right now” “Me?”, Bridget asked. “Yes, you”, he tapped her nose. “Do you think I like having to hide you?” Bridget smiled a tiny bit. He did have a point.
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Post by celticgirl91 on Aug 29, 2010 21:39:31 GMT -5
Bridget was dating the Prince. It was a fact that Colleen found hard to wrap her head around. And yet, it was all she could think about. Her best friend was in love with a Prince. And she had to cover for her. It gave her an odd sense of pride, she didn’t know why, but it did. “Are you Colleen?”, a voice asked suddenly, causing her to jump. “I am”, she replied to the tall, broad stranger. The man took her by the arm and guided her to a deserted hallway. “I’m Connor”, he introduced himself. “I’m Prince Ryan’s personal valet. Do you know a Bridget?” Colleen smiled. “Oh! Yes, Bridget’s talked about you. I’m her best friend.” “Yes…”, Connor looked her up and down. “Well, we have a bit of a problem.” “A problem?” “Yes. The King arranged a dinner party for his Highness with a Princess from another land. What have you told your superiors about Bridget? Where did you tell them she went?” Colleen looked into Connor’s serious eyes with surprise. “Nothing at all. No one has asked about her yet. What are you going to do? The Prince is gone and you have no way of-“ “I know!”, Connor cut her off sharply. He seemed very stressed, but then sighed and put a hand on Colleen’s shoulder. “I know”, he said in a more gentle voice. “I’m going to say that the Prince can’t make it tonight, that he went to visit his friend in another region.” “But… wouldn’t you have gone with him?”, Colleen asked. “Yes”, was the reply. “But it’s not unheard of that the Prince would go unaccompanied. Especially to his best friend’s house. He would take guards, but no one’s going to check up on that” He groaned and ran a hand through his hair. “Of course something like this would happen the first night they snuck off. This is NOT a good sign for the future.” “So what do we do?”, Colleen asked. “YOU are going to do nothing. You’re going to continue you’re day as if nothing has happened and if they ask about Bridget, make something up. I, however, have to go lie to the KING and hope he believes me” Colleen nodded with understanding. “That’s a very brave thing to do” “Well, it’s not as if I have a choice” “True” There was a silence for a second. “Maybe they’ll be back before then”, Colleen suddenly said. Connor just rolled his eyes. “I highly doubt it. The Prince likes to take his time with….things” Colleen raised his eyebrows. “With courting girls, I mean”, Connor explained quickly. “He doesn’t- He- oh never mind” Colleen held back another giggle, just as someone walked up to them. “Connor”, the tall, manish figure called. “Yes Prince Damian”, Connor bowed. “I need to speak to my brother. Do you know where he is? And who is this?”, the Prince looked at Colleen. “She’s a servant, Highness”, Connor explained. “I was talking to her about dinner tonight” “Oh. Well, hello then”, the Prince smiled as Colleen bowed. “But where’s Ryan?”, he asked Connor. “The Prince is in Cork, visiting his friend, Killian. What was it you needed him for?” “I had to talk to him about something. I met this Lady of … somewhere last night and I need brotherly advice. And there’s no WAY I’m going to Keith. And Paul’s not here. And why is Ryan gone? Didn’t our father set him up with another potential wife or something tonight?”, Prince Damian ranted. “Yes, he did”, Connor answered. “But the Prince was unaware of this when he left. So the Princess will have to wait until tomorrow” Prince Damian raised his eyebrows. “Wow. Well. Good luck to Ryan then. Father won’t be pleased… but I gotta go. Guess Keith’s my only option after all. Have a good day” “You as well, Highness”, Connor and Colleen bowed as he left. And as soon as the young Prince was about of sight… “Now what am I supposed to do?”, Connor groaned. “Lying to the King AND the Prince! I’m going to lock Prince Ryan in his rooms for this!” “Calm down”, Colleen put a hand on his arm. “It’ll work out. No one will suspect anything. The Prince will be back soon and then you can yell at him”, Colleen soothed. “He better be”, Connor muttered. “Are you even allowed to yell at the Prince?”, Colleen asked tentatively. Connor smiled. “Actually, yes”, he seemed amused. “When it’s good for him, which is quite often” This made Colleen laugh again, which made Connor laugh. Then there was awkward silence. “Well”, Connor coughed. “I need to go about my duties. Good day, Colleen” “Good day, Connor”, Colleen curtsied.
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Post by celticgirl91 on Sept 6, 2010 12:07:26 GMT -5
"And when I was a kid, I used to tell wee Damian that the one bedroom was haunted", Ryan laughed. "To this day, he still won't sleep in there" Bridget was laughing, her head on her love's clothed chest. She was impressed, he hadn't even taken off her outer garments. He really seemed to want to get to know her. They would save 'that' for later, he had said. He didn't want their relationship to be purely physical, a fact that seemed very chivilrous to Bridget. It only made her love him all the more. "So, Prince Damian believes in ghosts?", she asked. "I wouldn't be surprised", Ryan replied. "Keith and I have this plan. One of these days, we're going to wait til he's asleep, then somehow transfer him from his chambers to the haunted room. Then he'll really be spooked when he wakes up" Bridget laughed again. "The poor Prince..." Hey, it's not as if he doesn't do stuff to us", Ryan defended himself. "He put a toad in Paul's bed once" Bridget just sighed and shook her head. "Boys..." "Oh, okay”, Ryan teased as he started tickling her. Let's see what kind of mischief the pretty servant girl gets into. What did you do, Bridget? What secrets are you hiding behind those green eyes?" Bridget shrieked and tried to squirm away, but Ryan's arms were like steel bars around her. She couldn't get away, but then, she didn't really want to. "Ryan! Stop!", she squealed. Ryan stopped tickling, but kept his hands threateningly on her sides "Tell me", was the soft command I'm a servant girl!", she protested. "We don't have time to get into trouble" Ryan just raised his eyebrows, looking at the position they were in. "Oh really?" Bridget giggled. "This is a first" "You're first time sneaking off with a Prince?", Ryan feigned shock. "My, my, you're a regular criminal" Bridget sat up and folded her arms across her chest. "Okay, fine then. Last summer, when you were at your cousin's estate, I was getting almost no sleep whatsoever and I accidentally fell asleep on your bed while tidying up. I was only going to sit for a minute, but...." Ryan sat up quickly. "Are you serious?" Bridget gave a sheepish grin. "It's a very comfortable bed, by the way" Ryan's jaw fell open. "You ARE serious" Bridget continued to look at him until she couldn't hold back her laughter any longer, giving away that she was, indeed, joking. "Never! Do you know that my job would be gone if that ever happened?", she asked. Ryan let out a short laugh. "You little liar..." Bridget playfully bowed her head. “At your service” Ryan grabbed her and pulled her back with him onto the ground. “What am I going to do with you?” “I can think of a few things”, she grinned. “I told you”, Ryan winked. “Later.” Then he laughed at the look on Bridget’s face. “But for now, we really must get back.” Bridget’s scowl deepened. “Come on”, Ryan helped her to her feet. “We don’t want to get caught.” The ride back was uneventful and Ryan’s promise of seeing her that night made walking away seem a bit easier to Bridget. But when she got back, she saw Colleen running toward her. “We have a problem”, were her friend’s first words.
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Post by celticgirl91 on Sept 10, 2010 14:25:59 GMT -5
“Begging your pardon, Highness”, Connor was pacing around in Ryan’s chambers. “But this was a stupid idea! Maybe having Bridget stay late a few nights, I can understand that. But taking her out? I knew it would cause trouble! And then something like this happens!” Ryan was lying on his bed, watching Connor with mild amusement. “I mean. I was able to cover for you this time”, Connor continued. “But what about next time?” “Relax Connor”, Ryan sat up. “You did a great job. And isn’t the extra money I’m giving you worth it?” “Not if I get caught”, Connor mumbled. Ryan hopped off the bed and put a hand on Connor’s shoulder. “You won’t get caught”, he assured. “And if you do, I’ll take full blame.” “You’ll be in the same boat as me”, Connor replied. “Well, you’re the Prince, so maybe not. But still, you’re not supposed to be in love with the servants, mate. Is she really worth it?” “Without a doubt”, Ryan said immediately. He smiled, thinking of Bridget’s smile, her laugh, the way he played with her soft, soft hair. “She’s more than worth it”, he whispered, just as there was a knock at the door. Ryan’s smile widened, knowing that she was on the other side. “Connor, can you please get the door?” Connor sighed and moved to the door, immediately bowing. “Your Majesty”, he said in a shocked voice. The smile that was supposed to be for Bridget faded on Ryan’s face as his father walked in the room. “Dad” “Hello Ryan”, his father greeted. He was dressed just as a king should; heavy robes, crown, everything. Ryan always found that his father acted more kingly, more strictly when in his robes. “Were you just in court?”, Ryan asked. “I was. I was just heading to my rooms to retire for the night when I thought I’d stop by” Ryan looked at his father doubtfully. His father lived in the North wing. Ryan was in the Southwest wing. It was very uncommon for his father to just ‘stop by’, especially when he had never ‘stopped by’ in his life. Still, Ryan had to be cordial. “Can I offer you a drink?”, he asked as he saw Connor slip out the door. “No, I’m fine”, the king replied. “You stood up another Princess today” Ryan sighed. “It wasn’t my fault. You can’t just surprise me with guests. I have plans. I had already left when Connor had gotten the message.” “This isn’t MY fault”, the king said in a stern voice. “Now, you will dine with the Lady tomorrow night” “Dad”, Ryan took a step forward. “I don’t want to be set up. I want to choose my own wife. *IF* I even decide to get married. I don’t even know if I want to have to deal with the pressures of having a wife.” The King scoffed. “Don’t be ridiculous. Of course you want to get married. Especially if you’re going to be a king. You need an heir. And besides, it wouldn’t look politically correct if you didn’t have a Queen.” Ryan sighed. “Then at least let me pick my own” The King threw up his arms in exasperation and walked over to the fireplace. “But that’s my point! You’re not choosing your own. You’re 31, Ryan. And you’re not even seeing anybody.” Ryan pushed thoughts of Bridget out of his mind. He didn’t want to think about this right now. He didn’t want to think about what would happen if his father forced him to marry. Wait. There was no ‘if’. He HAD to get married. His father was right. What was he supposed to do? He loved Bridget… he couldn’t be with anyone other than her. But… he had to marry. And she was a servant. Ryan groaned and ran a hand through his hair. “I’ll choose someone when I find someone I love. And the right Princess hasn’t come along yet.” “Well, maybe you should start looking harder”, the King announced. “Maybe you would ‘find someone’ if you actually met the princess’ I brought here. For you.” Ryan didn’t respond. “You will dine with her tomorrow”, were the King’s last words as he stormed out the door. Ryan breathed out a sigh of frustration and sank down on the bed. “Your Highness”, Connor poked his head in. “The maid would like to come in and do her chores. Is that okay?” Ryan was relieved. Bridget was coming. She was alright. She was right outside the door. He needed to hold her. That was the only way he would be convinced that everything would be okay. “Please, send her in”
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Post by celticgirl91 on Sept 19, 2010 12:40:41 GMT -5
Bridget stepped inside the room and as soon as Connor had the door shut, Ryan was there, wrapping his arms around her. “Well, hello to you too”, Bridget smiled, starting to pull away. But Ryan didn’t let go of her. He continued to hold on, gently rocking her back and forth. This was completely fine with Bridget. She loved being held in his protective embrace. After a few minutes though, she started to realize that this embrace was almost a little TOO protective. “Ryan?”, she pulled back to look into his face. “What’s wrong? Why was the King here? Did he find out?” “No”, Ryan shook his head, running his fingers through her hair. “Then what? Colleen said that Connor covered for you. Connor?”, she turned to him, starting to get really worried. “What happened?”, she turned back to Ryan, running a hand along his face. “Shh…”, Ryan soothed. “I just love you very much. That’s all” “And I love you too”, she replied. “But what happened?” Ryan looked at her for a long moment, then turned to Connor. “Connor, that will be all for tonight. Thank you” Connor bowed silently and left the room. Bridget noticed that he looked disturbed though. Probably because of what Ryan was upset about, she decided. “So?”, she turned to the man she loved. “I know something’s wrong. Even Connor was upset.” “Connor?”, Ryan asked. “He wasn’t even in the room when my dad was here. I don’t know if anything’s wrong with him” Bridget put her hands on her hips. “He was upset about something” Ryan only shrugged. “I didn’t notice anything” Men. Such eejits. “Fine then”, she sighed and wrapped her arms around his waist. “What’s happened to upset you?” Ryan sighed as well and wrapped his arms around her, his thumb rubbing the small of her back. “My father’s coming down hard on the whole, ‘find a Queen’ thing. He doesn’t think I’m trying hard enough to find a wife. He’s about ready to find one for me” Bridget was silent. She knew that she was no Queen. She was a servant girl. What was going to happen to them? To their relationship? Bridget knew that Ryan would have to get married someday…but she didn’t like thinking about it. Then Ryan gave her the rescue she needed. “Here”, he pulled back and took her hands. “Let’s not worry about it tonight. I’ll figure something out.” Bridget nodded, knowing that they’d have to worry about it at some point, but also wanting to pretend that the problem didn’t exist. “I have work to do”, she sighed as she pulled out of his embrace. She walked over to the fireplace and started getting it ready for the night. “Do you want some help?”, Ryan took off his fancy outer robe and walked over to her. Bridget laughed. “Help? You?” Ryan playfully straightened up. “Yes. Me. I may be the Prince, but I can still start a fire.” Bridget raised her eyebrows. “Can you?” “Yes. As a matter of fact, I can”, Ryan said indignantly. “In fact, we’ll switch roles for the night. You, come over here…”, he took her hand and led her to the bed. Bridget smiled knowingly as she sat down. Ryan knelt before her and took off her shoes, kissing each of her feet as he swung her legs up on the covers. “And I…”, he continued as he went back to the fireplace. “Will light the fire.” “You have to put water in the basin and clean up clothes too”, she reminded him. Ryan bowed playfully. “As you wish” This made Bridget giggle and she bounced her legs excitedly. She watched as her Love knelt down to start the fire. To her surprise, it lit up quickly and she could feel the warmth of it on her face. “Now what?”, Ryan straightened up, grinning like a 5 year old boy who just completed a very difficult task. Bridget couldn’t help but laugh. “Now you have to clean up your dirty clothes and then lay out new ones. Then you have to pour water into that basin and then clean up the ash around the fire.” Ryan completed all the chores easily enough, but had a hard time with the small tools used to clean up the ashes. “How do you work this?”, he asked, holding up the small brush and pan. Bridget laughed. “Just brush the soot into the pan, then dump it into the bucket.” Ryan held the tools awkwardly and only ended up flinging the dirt. The look he gave her was priceless. Full of horror that he had done something wrong and surprise that this attempt hadn’t worked. “Can I please help you?”, Bridget asked. She couldn’t help it. He looked so lost and confused doing her work. “Nope”, Ryan stood up and brushed his hands off. “I have a better idea. Let’s skip the chores for now”, he said as he climbed onto the bed. “No, I have to make sure that stuff gets done”, Bridget protested. “Later”, Ryan said as he started nuzzling her neck. “It won’t get done”, she sighed. “I’ll do it”, he murmured. “Later” Bridget knew that she’d end up rushing around in the morning, trying to get it all finished, but she was starting not to care. “You promise?”, she still had to ask. “Promise”, he whispered, right before his lips covered hers.
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Post by celticgirl91 on Sept 30, 2010 23:36:22 GMT -5
Over the next few weeks, time flew for Ryan and Bridget. The loom of Ryan’s non marital status hung over them both, but neither spoke of it. Instead, they spent as much time as they could together. They went back to their secret place, spent long evenings together, and Ryan even learned how to sweep the fireplace properly. This was all well and good for them, but it was a strain for the ones who were covering for the two. It was a cool afternoon in early October when Connor approached Colleen. “Colleen. Have you seen Bridget?”, he asked in a panicked voice. Colleen looked up from the sheets she was hanging. “No… the last I saw, she was working in the kitchens. Why?” “Because the Prince had one of his meetings cancelled and he has a few hours free, so he wants to see her. I TOLD him it was a bad idea, but he wouldn’t listen. He’s going to be ‘relaxing for a few hours’ and he wants her to make an excuse.” “Like what?” Connor laughed. “That’s just it. he doesn’t know. He said she should say that she has to dust or something.” Colleen rolled her eyes at the lame excuse. “In the middle of the day? When she just dusted this morning?” “I guess”, Connor shrugged. “I don’t know, he just said to make an excuse. He acts like he didn’t just see her two hours ago.” “They’re in love”, Colleen sympathized. “I’ve known Bridget for a long time… I‘ve never seen her this happy.” “How long have you two been friends?”, he asked. “Since we were 14. We got really close when her mom died.” Connor blinked. This was something he had not been aware of. “Her mom died?” Colleen nodded. “Her mom worked here. When she died, Bridget took her position. And I was just a street kid who was lucky to get a job. So we started about the same time and helped each other out. Pretty soon, we were the best of friends.” ”I’m so sorry”, Connor said softly. He didn’t really know what else to say. “It’s alright”, she shrugged. “She’s unbelievably happy now. I’m glad for her.” “And what about you?”, Connor took a step forward. “Are you happy?” “I’m not in love if that’s what you’re asking”, she replied. It had been, but Connor didn’t say that. “I don’t need a man to make me happy”, she said. “Everyone needs someone”, he countered. Colleen thought for a moment. “Maybe. But for now, I’m fine with not being in love. What about you? Are you as happy as the Prince?” Connor laughed at that. No one could be happier than the Prince. Not that he wouldn’t be if he didn’t have the chance though… “I think I’m a bit jealous of the Prince’s happiness”, he admitted. “Why?” “Because his happiness was supposed to be my happiness”, the answer was whispered. “What do you mean?” “I mean that I liked Bridget” Colleen was silent for a moment. “You did?” Connor nodded. “Still do, in a way. But I can’t like someone that the Prince is in love with” “Does she know?” “No. And she never will, got it?” Colleen nodded her consent and it got quiet for a few minutes. “So”, he said. “Where is she?” “I’m not sure”, Colleen answered. “But I’ll find her and tell her that the Prince is waiting” “Colleen”, Connor called as she started to turn away. She turned back, and expectant expression on her face. “Not a word” She nodded, curtsied, and hurried off. Connor sighed and ran a hand over his head. He didn’t know why he had admitted that to Colleen. It had just slipped out. He had noticed that through all the time they had spent together. She was too easy to talk to. And she was pretty. But Connor wasn’t going to think about that now, he had to cover for the Prince. Again.
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Post by celticgirl91 on Oct 15, 2010 16:35:46 GMT -5
Bridget had gotten word from Colleen that Ryan had wanted to see her, but she didn’t know why. Unlike Colleen, she knew that he didn’t want to have romantic, cuddly time. She had just seen him 2 hours ago, plus it was in the middle of the day when he knew she was busy. He never took chances like that. So it was with a slightly concerned mindset that she walked down the corridors to his rooms. “The Prince is in there”, a voice behind her said. Bridget whirled around and saw one of the guards watching her. “You can’t go in”, he said seriously. “Oh no, he told me to”, she replied, thinking fast. “He sent word that he wanted hot water for a bath.” The guard raised his eyebrows, but didn’t say anything more. Bridget inwardly breathed a sigh of relief and pushed open the door to see Ryan lying on his bed. “Ryan?”, she asked hesitantly, approaching slowly. Ryan just held out his arm, silently inviting her to join him. She took off her shoes and climbed up beside him, laying her head on his chest. “What’s wrong?”, she asked softly. “We have to leave”, he replied. Bridget sat up and looked at him. “Leave?” Ryan nodded. “Yes. My father has found a wife for me. He got tired of waiting for me to choose my own. “You mean, he just- decided on a girl for you? And you have no say? You HAVE to marry her?” “Yes” Bridget contemplated this, Ryan marrying someone, someone that wasn’t her. She pictured him holding another girl, playing with her hair, whispering in her ear, making her laugh… Bridget shook these thoughts away, not being able to bear it. What was she going to do without him? “When?”, she asked, holding back tears. “In a month”, Ryan replied. “Too bad we won’t be here for it” That got Bridget’s attention. “What?” Ryan looked at her, a slightly amused expression now replacing his previously solemn one. “We’re leaving”, he said simply. “I can’t marry someone else, and you’re not royalty, so we really have no choice. I’ve been thinking about this for a long time, going through all the solutions in my head… there’s no other way. But don’t worry, Dear, I have a plan.” Bridget shook her head, trying to take it all in. “We’re leaving. Just you and me?” Ryan nodded. “But- but- how? Where? You’re a Prince, you can’t just disappear!” “Shh…”, Ryan took her waist and pulled her down so that she was lying next to him again. Bridget put her head on his chest and felt his steady heartbeat, feeling herself calm down. “I have a plan”, Ryan assured her. “It’s not my favorite plan of all time, but if that’s what it takes to keep you with me….” “What plan?” “I have to fake my own death”, Ryan said softly. Bridget tried to sit up again, to look into his face to see if he was actually serious, but Ryan’s arm around her wouldn’t let her. So instead, she wrapped her arms around him tighter. “Are you serious?”, she asked. “How are you going to do that?” “I have to make it look as if I drowned so that they can’t recover me. Well, recover my body.” “And just where will your body be during all this?”, Bridget asked in a slightly demanding voice. “With you”, was the simple replied. “With you and far away from here… have I ever told you about my older cousin, George?” “No…” “Well, he owns a palace in Scotland and will be more than happy to keep us safe. Everyone here will think I’m dead, and you can just resign and walk away. See? All problems solved.” Bridget was silent, thinking this through. She was amazed at how he could make this all seem so simple. After a moment, she sat up, pulling her love with her and taking his face in her hands. “Ryan, are you sure about this? This is your home, your family is here” Ryan gazed into her eyes, stroking her hair. “I know. But I’d rather be with you. I just came from a meeting with my father and he won’t budge on this. I need you, Bridge. I can’t live my life without you. So yes, I am sure.” She kissed him then, putting all her love and gratitude into that simple act. “And just how are you going to carry out this plan?”, she asked when they drew apart. Ryan smiled a bit. “I have to talk to my brothers”
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