A.C led Chloe to the elevator and up to the penthouses. They were granted entrance to an ante room of the Royal residence after a security check. Chloe was biting her tongue the entire time. Her room was beautiful; this was extremely elegant and very masculine.
"Miss Sullivan." Jet spoke sort of smiling at her.
"Yes?"
"I am Jet, Prince Oliver's guard." he paused. "I am at liberty to disclose protocol to you, but as his Highness has told me your story, I will forgo it. Your interview will be in the office, some of his personal staff will be present. He has some business things that require his attention and they may interrupt from time to time." Jet didn't look at all happy with her. "When he enters and you are sitting you must stand and won't be able to sit again until he does." He raised an eye brow at Chloe condescendingly as she pulled her steno out of her purse.
"Is there a problem –Jet?" A.C asked, not at all thrilled with how this man was treating his ray of sunshine. "Because as I see it, this young woman has only his best interest at heart and has the same determination as you in keeping him safe. So if you are trying to intimidate her, I suggest you take a giant step back, far bigger, far meaner, have tried without success. Need I also remind you that she is an invited guest?"
"I," Chloe spoke not sure what to say.
"It's alright Chloe, he's just posturing." A.C glared.
"I apologize, Miss Sullivan. His Highness is a beloved son to us and I would take a bullet for him." He spoke.
"Forgiven." She smiled. A.C smirked at the young man.
"Alright then," he spoke and led them into the office. "Please have a seat, he will be in shortly." He spoke pointing to one of two high back chairs facing each other. Chloe nodded and watched as he left the room. She moved to the chair farthest to her. She exhaled a deep breath and then sat. A.C stood behind her and put a hand on her shoulder.
"You'll be fine." He reassured. Chloe nodded and set her purse down at her feet. There were two women in the room going over computers, trying not to look at her. A shiver slid down Chloe's spine, she was all about adventure, and when that door opened a whole new world would be opening for her.
Oliver stood at the window to staring at the skyline of New York as nervous as he was years ago before going on his first date. He held a cup of tea in his hands to try and settle his stomach. Butterflies wrapped in butterflies were causing it to rebel. He had somehow met the girl of his dreams on the internet, met her in person by mere happenstance and now she was about to see him, as he truly is, in all his Royal glory. He was terrified she would be put off by the extravagance of his life. He understood her life had been difficult and didn't want his money to be a strike against him. He adored everything about her and hoped, no prayed that she could reciprocate the sentiments. He was so lost in thought that he didn't hear Jet enter.
"Your Highness," he spoke softly. Oliver turned to face his guard.
"Yes?" he spoke quietly moving to set his cup on a coaster. He adjusted his silk tie and wiped imaginary fuzz off his arm.
"She's in the office waiting for you." He spoke staring at the Prince. "Nive and Ahalani are working as well. " Oliver nodded regretting that their first encounter couldn't be more private, but appearance needed to be maintained. He inwardly sighed and followed Jet through the door and toward the front room. Jet opened the door and announced him. Oliver took a deep breath and held his head high and entered the room.
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Chloe stood trying to hide her surprise. He was damn sexy as Oliver Marshal but as a Prince? Chloe bit her tongue to make sure it was still in her mouth. Oliver smiled a warm smile. "Miss Chloe Sullivan, I would like to introduce you to His Royal Highness, Oliver Queehne, Crown Prince of Baldivia." Jet spoke them moved to stand at the door, he signaled to Arthur and the two left the office. Oliver extended his hand to her. Chloe smiled and reached to shake it.
"It's a pleasure to me you Sir." She spoke her voice cracking ever so slightly.
"The pleasure is all mine Miss Sullivan," he spoke as they shook hands briefly. "Please," he spoke gently pulling his hand from hers directing her to sit as he did. "Be seated. Are you hungry or thirsty?"
"No thank you." She spoke. "Forgive me for asking but you requested me to be here, there are a million reporters more qualified to ask you about your lifestyle, agenda's and plans. Why me?" she taunted him with her eyes.
"I've read your work, to say that you are brilliant, is selling you short." He replied nonplussed. His eyes were smiling his face a mask of regal grace. "I thought that if you got an opportunity to see this life from the inside, it might give you insight when we talk in greater detail about my economic platform." He smiled slightly.
"I'm very flattered." She blushed. "Can you tell me a little about your visit? I read your bio while preparing for this interview and it says you've never been to US before, why now?"
"It's a two tier mission really. On the personal front, I am here on a humanitarian mission. This benefit tonight is for a wonderful cause, excuse me causes. Sir Reginald has been over in Haiti and wanted to help the people so nearly half of the proceeds go to the relief effort and the other cause was his late Mothers which was Pediatric A.I.D.S research. "
"And the second tier?"
"I'm amongst other things a business man, I have some people interested in our technologies, things that could boost my countries economy and maybe help develop newer technologies here."
"Sounds promising."
"I think so, our country is small, but we still face the problems of larger countries. I don't want to let us fall behind, to have my people suffer at all."
"I also read that your father wants to retire?"
"Really?" he asked curiously.
"I have some pretty good sources," she grinned. "It sounds like you are already taking on a roll as leader, has your father given you a date or time frame?" Oliver visibly paled.
"I am not at liberty to discuss that now." He spoke and looked and subtly gestured at the two ladies working hoping she would catch it.
"Well, maybe someday then." Chloe smiled. "Your presence has seemingly taken this city by storm. Were you surprised by the reception you received?"
"Honestly? Yes. It's strange really the idea of being considered paparazzo worthy material. There is some of that back home, but nothing like this." He frowned.
"Is there anything particular that you would want the rest of the world to know about you?"
He thought and smiled at her. "I'm actually a very private person and that kind of information I like to keep under wraps."
"Ahhh," she sighed, understanding his meaning.
"Pardon for the interruption, Sire." One of the ladies spoke. "But do you mind looking at this?" she called him over.
"Excuse me, please." He spoke standing and going to their computer. He sat at the desk and began typing away. His brow furrowed in frustration. After a few minutes the problem seemed to be resolved.
"Thank you Sire." The other woman spoke.
"If you could get the reports on my desk before the gala that would be helpful, you are dismissed." He spoke. They nodded and left the room quickly. He sighed and looked over at Chloe, who just watched as he melted into her Ollie.
"Sorry about all this," he gestured to the room.
"Nonsense, you have to play the part right?" she spoke standing and making her way to him. She stood behind him and began to massage his shoulders.
"Something like that." He spoke putting his hands on hers. She leaned and kissed his cheek.
"You do give a great interview." She teased and pulled away walking back toward her seat.
"You're tough." He admitted.
"Eh, it's a skill," she smiled over her shoulder.
"Look this room is way to stuffy, come." He stood and headed another door. He paused and held a hand out to her. She took it and led her into the next room which was a living room that was so much more than opulent.
"Wow," Chloe whispered as the led her to the huge leather couch. "Ollie, it's amazing." He was too quiet as they sat down. Chloe could see he was warring with himself. She could very nearly hear his inner turmoil. With every revelation of what privilege he had he seemed to shy away from her. She leaned into him and he wrapped an arm around her. "You know all this?" She spoke and she could feel him tense. "Is not what makes you who you are. You have accepted that I have some unusual friends and penchant for high tech, without so much as a request for an explanation. You take me at face value." She spoke putting her hand on his knee. "I'm capable of the same," she smiled. "Before you were a Prince to me you were just Ollie. You still are. I don't see dollar signs or a crown. Don't be afraid to be you with me." She spoke. He closed his eyes and sighed.
"I just don't want…."
"I won't." she replied seemingly knowing his thoughts. "To me it's another adventure on a life that's been chalk full of them." She looked ahead, knowing what she had to do. "Vic, Bart and Arthur, my "guard," are more than they've pretended to be. Arthur, he goes by A.C. He and the rest; they spend their time helping people. Vic, he's a mix of human and robotic parts, A.C he's got an affinity with water. I run communications for them. I help them to find the problems and the people in trouble, and as a team we do what we can to help. They trust me," She turned her body slightly to face him better. "And I trust you. I used to think that writing was all there was in life until I met them. There was a world out there that I knew nothing about, and I wanted, no craved to learn more. "
"See I feel so less then what I could be when I talk to you." he shook his head his faced held an expression of wonder.
"Don't," she paused. "That's not the point. Meeting you? It felt like the first time I got a story published. It's new, scary, and daunting,"
"Daunting?" he asked searching her eyes.
"Oh please, you are going to be showing up with a reporter on your arm at gala for the uber elite?" she grinned. "How is that not daunting? The rags will all be clamoring for an agenda. I've not been seen with you, and yet here I am as friendly with you like I've known you forever."
"Angel, I really don't care about that. I don't want to wait for you to slide into my public life. I want to share what it is I am."
Chloe chuckled and moved to sit across his lap, "And what are you exactly? Are you a frog?" she asked scrunching her face at him.
"What?"
"A meta?"
"Chloe."
"Stop talking like you're a two headed sloth. You're you, Oliver Queehne."
"So how about this," he spoke putting her hand over his heart and his hand over hers. "One day, one moment at a time; starting with your appearance on my arm, this is going to rock that Gala by the way." He smiled. "And whatever happens happens."
"Deal." She smiled and kissed him.
"Now that that's out of the way," he pulled his phone out of his jacket and sent a text and waited for a response. "Alliandra DuMonde will be in your room in an hour to help you get ready."
"She is?"
"A top rated stylist, and apparently a seamstress so if you have problems with your gown she can help. It was delivered to your room." He smiled like a kid in a candy store.
Chloe just sighed, dayam was he cute. "I do have one more question for you."
"Really….just one?" he arched an eye brow at her.
"Ok one, for now."
"Alright, lay it on me." He smiled seemingly more relaxed.
"Goldfish? Really? Where in the world did you come up with that?"
He laughed, "I was eating some, a snack to get me to the jet. It seemed like a good idea."
"You eat Goldfish?" she wrinkled her nose.
"Love them," he smiled.
"Are you sure you're a Prince?" she teased. He nodded emphatically. "That's hilarious." She paused, "Oh, thanks for the tulips by the way."
"Oh you're very welcome" he rested a hand on her knee. "Now about tonight,"…
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Chloe was back in her room, a large garment bag hanging from her bedroom door. She smiled, as she approached it. She had received texts from the guys and everything was ready. All she had to do was get ready. Chloe walked past the gown stifling her curiosity for the time being. She made her way into her bathroom and gasped; tulip petals were strewn and there was a tray of fruits, a glass of wine, and a bottle of bubble bath waiting for her on the counter. She shook her head went the tub faucet and got the water running. She poured in the vanilla bubble bath then went to grab a towel and the complimentary robe and set those close by. She stripped and sighed, excited for the bath. Once the tub was filled to her liking, she shut the water off and stepped into the lap of luxury.
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Chloe wandered around the bedroom, someone had moved her bags to the room and she was glad. She unpacked her delicates laying them out, unsure what to wear. She went to the garment bag and took a deep breath and reached for the zipper she pulled it down slowly and gasped at what was revealed, shoes and all. "ohhhhhmyyyyggoooddd." She whispered. There was a knock at her door. Chloe made her way to the door and checked the peep hole. There was a woman with 3 cases behind her on the floor.
"Who is it?"
"Allianda Dumonde," she spoke. Chloe unlocked her door and let the lady enter grabbing all her cases. "Wow I haven't seen security this tight since the President was here." She spoke casually.
"I know crazy huh?" Chloe spoke shutting the door and locking it behind the woman.
"I was told to give you these?" she spoke handing Chloe a small bag of Goldfish." She laughed.
"Thanks." She spoke. "So you're here to help me get ready?"
"Oh yes, let's see the dress first and go from there." She smiled. Chloe led her to the dress and watched the woman scrutinize it.
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"Okay this is it." Guntar spoke in his phone. "I have no more patience if this isn't successful kill one or both of them I don't care." He growled.
"What about the others? The money?" the man in black asked.
"Ransom is on its way, the others? Well there close, if this doesn't end well, then their families will have to double the rate." He spoke and hung up.
Vic's bug picked up the entire conversation and was able to trace the call. He was calling from the Four Seasons. He sent a message to Bart to go and follow him. Vic was avoiding calling Big Blue, but they would need the help, so he sent him a message with all the details, and hoped he would understand and he would help.
00000
A.C waited in the living room of Chloe's suite. He was anxious. There was a lot of chatter and Big Blue joined in the intrigue and was helping to search for the kidnap victims. Chloe was running late, which was odd for her.
"Ok I'm ready," she shouted from the closed bedroom door. "Now promise you won't laugh." She spoke.
"Sunshine, I would never laugh at you."
"Oh please, when I got tossed in that dumpster you guys laughed for days." She shouted through the door.
"Ok, yes we did but I won't laugh here," he spike turning to face the door. "Cross my heart."
"Ok." She spoke and opened the door. A.C held his breath; the woman that walked through the door was beautiful.
"Chloe," he spoke as he moved to stand in front of her. Chloe just blushed. The gown she wore was gorgeous; olive green, off the shoulder, fitted and gem encrusted bodice, with a full skirt. Her hair was pulled back with small braids at the top and long at the back. Then braids were held back by gem clips. She wore small diamond stud earrings and white elbow length gloves.
A.C gaped. "What, I should go change." She moved to go back to her room.
"Sunshine, no, you look beautiful. He's going to swallow his own tongue." He smiled.
"Really? I feel like a clown."
"No," he smiled.
"Well you're not so bad yourself." She smiled. There was a knock at her door and A.C moved to answer it. It was one of the Prince's security detail; a quick hushed conversation was had. A.C closed the door and turned to Chloe.
"It's time." He smiled. Chloe swallowed and nodded. She stood tall and made her way to the door. A.C handed her an ear bud. Chloe slid it into her ear while A.C opened the door. Chloe walked into the hall A.C behind her as they were lead toward the elevator and back to the Prince's suite.
00000
Oliver stood in front of the mirror, the expensive cut tuxedo with tails, the silver vest and wide tie gave it a more modern look than his father's antique. The green sash of his station under his coat was pristine the small medals of his country adorning the left breast of his jacket. He moved to his bed and sat, putting on his impeccably polished shoes. He reached to the night stand and picked up the silver signet ring that was his grandfathers and slid it onto his right ring finger. His mind wandering to Chloe, she would be escorted to him shortly and almost instantly did his mouth go dry from the thought.
The dress he had chosen was on her top 3 she had picked and the more he thought of it, it was the perfect fit for her, and the elegance that he saw in her. Clothes don't make the person, the person makes the clothes and the dress would become something different entirely on her. He stood and went over to his set up computer to check on things in motion and to slip the ear bud into his ear. Satisfied with what he saw and was hearing he put his computer in hibernate mode. He opened the desk drawer and pulled out a velvet box and put it in his pocket.
There was a knock on his door. "She's here." Jet spoke. Oliver exited the room and paused. Chloe stood with her back to the door. She was looking at a painting on the wall.
"Wow," is all he said. Chloe turned sharply. He suddenly looked so much taller with the tuxedo.
"The dress is beautiful, thank you Oliver." She blushed.
"I need to send a thank you note to the designer," he moved toward her slowly. "You're beautiful."
"I'm not used to this much attention." She blushed.
"That's a shame, you really should be." He grinned. "Here," he spoke pulling a black velvet box from his pocket. Chloe looked at it as if it would bite her. Oliver smiled at her innocence. He opened the box for her and watched as her eyes widened in surprise.
"Ohhh, Ollie," she whispered. She looked up at him her eyes alight with wonder.
Lying on the velvet was a silver chain with an elegant tear drop diamond. "When I saw this, I thought it would be perfect for your dress." He grinned.
"You didn't have to." She blushed as she watched him take the jewelry from its resting place. He moved to stand behind her and placed the delicate necklace on her neck and clasped it. He kissed the clasp.
"No, but I wanted to," he grinned and moved to stand in front of her. "Perfection." He smiled at her.
"You sure about this tonight?" she asked.
"Absolutely." He answered. There was a knock at the door and Jet entered.
"The limo is waiting down stairs." He spoke and left.
Chloe took a step away from him and started to hyperventilate. "Deep breath," he moved to her and gently turned her to face him. He gently raised her gaze to his. "Hold your head high; let the light that I see shine bright. I promise you that you will have fun tonight. You'll keep me grounded," he smiled. "We do need to get going, can't be late for this." He moved to be at her side and she laced her arm into his.
"To adventure than?" she smiled up at him as they walked toward the door.
"Absolutely." He smiled as he led them out the door to their awaiting security escorts.
00000
"So when we get there," Ollie spoke in the limo ride over to the Astoria grand ball room, "We will be announced," he spoke slipping on his white gloves. "Then it's mingling. " He smiled.
"And Reggie?"
"Well Victor has him monitored," he smiled. "He, Arthur and Jet have it covered."
"And?"
"All we need to do is get him on the balcony late in the evening. Guntar is here, he's been seen."
"And your dad?"
"He's safe." He smiled.
"Good. I can't wait to write this and blow the lid off of it."
"Me too, it should be a great read."
"I was thinking this afternoon- you do realize that this will be carried on all the news channels?"
"Yes, I tried to call Mary today, she wasn't home. I sent her some flowers, and hope to maybe go see her before I have to leave."
"When is that?"
"I have to leave New York Sunday, but not sure if I have to head back home." He frowned.
"In the interview, you deferred on answering on when you're succeeding the throne…" Oliver looked at her sharply.
"So it's soon?" she challenged. He closed his eyes and sighed. "Come on Ollie, it's like pulling off a band aid, just tell me." She whispered resting a hand on his knee.
"My Birthday….in 8 months." He spoke trying to read her face.
"Well, that's a bit of a surprise." She sighed.
"Angel, I…."
The car slowed. Chloe gasped as she saw the flashbulbs from all the cameras waiting at the red carpet.
"Ohh boy." She whispered. He grabbed her gloved hand with his and brought it to his lips for a kiss.
"Just remember to breathe and to smile." He spoke as the door to the limo was opened. He stepped out first then turned and reached a hand to her. Chloe inhaled and exhaled deeply and took his hand, allowing him to pull her gently out of the car. She looked up at him; he looked down at her and winked. He laced her arm in his and dropped his other arm at his side and they made their way up the elegant stairs amidst a torrent of flash bulbs and shouting.
When they reached the entry way of the huge ball room Chloe was breathless, trying to not step on her gown, smile, hold onto Oliver and not panic, really took a lot out of a girl and all in the span of a few minutes.
"Well Angel, that wasn't so bad." Oliver spoke in her ear. She looked up at him and shook her head. He only winked at her again.
"Easy for you." She teased.
He chuckled warmly. "Alright, so now it's time for the gauntlet." He whispered.
"Sorry?"
"We go to the actual entrance to the ball room, we get announced and all the hand shaking and introducing commences. The goal of any of these types of events is to get across the room in 15 minutes."
"And what happens if we get separated?" She asked.
"We won't," he spoke confidently. Chloe gave him a look of doubt. He smiled and they walked toward the entrance of the gala. There was what looked like a hostess stand and a man in an impeccable tuxedo, top hat and cane. He bowed his head to Oliver he stood at attention and tapped his cane 3 times. The music from inside stopped and a royal trumpeter played.
"Ladies and Gentlemen, His Royal Highness, Oliver Queehne, Crown Prince of Baldivia and guest Miss Chloe Sullivan." The trumpeters played again as they entered the ball room to applause, then the game were on, Oliver was absolutely right. He was charming; he mingled, shook hands and introduced Chloe like a pro. It was neat for her to see him in his natural element. He made everyone he came in contact with feel important, right on down to the servers. They made it across the room in just under 15 minutes. At which point Oliver grabbed a glass of wine for the both of them.
"That was…entertaining. " She teased.
"Thank you. The first time I did that my father was laughing so hard, because I got stuck in several conversations that I couldn't get out of. The trick really is to just shake hands chat and go. He turned it into a game for me at the next event and since then that's really how I get through it."
"That's hilarious."
"I'm pretty well practiced at this but you; you held your own well."
"Why thank you very much, your highness." She winked at him.
"So now, it's mingling at our own pace and watching Sir Reginald. Dinner will be announced about 15 minutes before they serve."
"Ughhh,"
"Look, I made a special request." He grinned.
"And that would be?"
"We will have the same table setting as everyone else, but our server will bring our dishes with the appropriate dinner wear entow. There's no need to worry about it." He smiled.
"I could kiss you." She grinned.
"I wish you would, it would give some of these folks a reason to chatter."
"And give my editor a heart attack." She snarked.
They were approached by a tall brunette man escorting a very leggy red head on his arm. "Prince Oliver?"
"Yes?" he spoke, he stood to his full height, there was something about this man that exuded arrogance.
"I'm Bruce Wayne of Wayne Enterprises." He spoke extending his hand. Oliver shook it then again resumed his posture. "This is Emelia Estomen," She smiled and tried catch the Princes' eye.
"Charmed, Mr. Wayne, this is Chloe Sullivan, Daily Planet Reporter." Oliver spoke proudly.
"Interesting idea, letting the reporters into the inner sanctum." He smiled at Chloe.
"The Inner Sanctum as you like to address it, Mr. Wayne, is no different than the 50th wedding anniversary party I went to for the former mayor of a small town in Kansas. People are people, unless you consider yourself above the average person?" she smiled as she slid in the insult.
"My apologies if you were insulted at all Ms. Sullivan," he spoke. Bruce was baffled usually women fell for his charms.
"Wayne Enterprises, the large Technologies firm?" Oliver spoke trying to redirect the conversation.
"Yes, I've been going over your software, very impressive. Some of it may be useful to my company. I would like to sit and discuss the matter, at your convenience of course."
"Of course," Oliver grinned coolly. "If you leave your contact information with the concierge, I will most certainly get it. I'm not certain how long I will be in the US," he spoke. He saw Sir Reginald being talked to by hotel member and he looked flustered.
"If you'll excuse me, there's someone that I really must introduce Chloe too." He spoke and looked at Chloe with a warm smile. She nodded and followed his lead.
Bruce and his date lost themselves in the crowd mingling.
"Everything alright?" she asked as she linked her arm in his.
"Everything is perfect, the person I saw must have stepped out onto the balcony, you really must see that view; it's spectacular." He spoke calmly. All Chloe could hear was static in her ear piece. He led her to the balcony doors and Jet was waiting for them.
"Highness," he spoke as he opened the door. Oliver very subtly bowed his head. He led Chloe out to the balcony. Reginald was out leaning on the rail.
"Reggie?" Oliver asked. He turned, his face was pale, and he as sweating. "Everything alright?"
"I….I'm sorry Oliver," he spoke. Oliver moved closer to him and cocked his head. "I didn't mean….."
"Sorry for what?"
"For setting you up, for dragging you out here, so I could end your snobby life." A familiar voice spoke and Oliver also heard the distinct click of a gun being prepared for use. Oliver drew Chloe close and pushed her behind him.
"Reggie?" Oliver asked confused.
"He said he would take my niece, sell her on the black market, she's only 3." He spoke. The voice that had been talking stepped out of the shadows and pulled his hood off.
"Guntar." Oliver growled.
"Helllo you spoiled…."
"Really? Name calling?" Oliver asked. "Let Chloe go."
"No, she's seen my face, she meets the same fate."
"What is your problem? My family has been good to you, made you a member, you were wanting for nothing."
"Right, making minimum wage? I can't afford a car, a house, anything."
"Within your means you mean. You want a big house, a fast car, and the luxury of life. I was raised this way; it's come from lifetimes of hard work and lineage." Oliver spoke.
"But you're so selfish." Guntar spoke. "You keep it all for yourself and don't share, well I'm fed up with waiting and I'm taking for my own."
"Innocent people?" Oliver asked.
Guntar blanched at the statement. "Not so innocent, wealthy bastards who have no use for the excess. And what do you know about the others? Who told you?" Chloe saw a blue streak zip to the roof line above them. Oliver caught some tactical teams moving in the shadows behind Guntar.
"Let Chloe and Reggie go, and you can take me. I have the means to make your life very comfortable." Oliver spoke.
"Your highness, NO!" Chloe protested. "He'll kill you."
"Chloe, you weren't meant to get this far involved, that was my mistake." He told her. "Take your freedom." He spoke softly.
"This is all very touching, but I have room for the three of you. " He spoke. He reached into his pocket and pulled out his cell phone and dialed a number but the call didn't go through. Guntar tried again and he grew frustrated.
"What did you do?" he screamed. In flash of blue the gun was gone and Guntar was being held by his collar by Superman.
"It's a simple jammer." The Boy Scout spoke. "And while you were pleading your case, all of your victim's were rescued." He spoke. Jet stepped onto the private patio, and the constable that had nearly broken into Chloe's condo appeared in full tactical gear.
"Thanks Superman." He spoke. "We can take him from here." Superman handed him over.
"But you were in on it?" Guntar shouted at the constable.
"I was undercover you dolt. I've been on this for nearly 2 years. You are going away for a long time; crimes against a crown carry hefty prison sentences."
"But, I…." Guntar protested and one of the other policemen dragged him away.
"The goons he had working with him were detained by the local authorities not a few miles from here." Superman spoke.
"And my niece?" Reggie spoke.
"In the arms of her mother at home."
"Thank you Superman."
"I'm sorry Oliver." He spoke.
"Reggie, you and I have been friends a long time, no harm, no foul." He smiled.
"Miss Sullivan."
"Superman," she smirked.
"Enjoy the festivities and try to stay out of trouble." He spoke and took off. The people on the patio just stared at her.
"What? Reporting is dangerous work! He's helped me out a time or two." She shrugged. Oliver just shook his head and rolled his eyes.
"Well, I will need your statements," The constable spoke.
"Can it be after the gala?" Oliver asked.
"Fair enough." He spoke. "Guntar will be facing extradition in the morning. NYPD was more than happy to help prevent an international incident." He smiled. "Thanks for the help." He smiled at Chloe.
"It's what I do." She smiled.
"I'm staying at the Palace," Oliver spoke. "Jet, if you would please give this man the information."
Jet nodded. "Reggie, why don't you go and get yourself a scotch, you look like you can use it." Oliver smiled.
"Oliver." He spoke.
"Look, it's really ok," he smiled and extended his hand for his friend. Reggie took it and shook it. He left the patio and went inside. Chloe pulled Oliver away from Jet and the Constable.
"You're angry with me?" he smiled; the expression on her face was adorable.
"What were you thinking, putting yourself in front of me? He had a gun, he could have killed you." She growled.
"And what would you have done, Angel? It was nothing more than instinct. I would do it a hundred times over to keep you safe."
"And what of your people, your father?"
"And you, you are very high on that list too." He spoke. "I'm sorry you were frightened, but I won't apologize for what I did…"
"Ohhhh, you're so arrogant some times." She spoke.
"You do realize you are incredibly cute when you're angry?" he grinned.
"Don't try and charm your way out of this one Mr." she grinned.
"I knew the cavalry was coming." He spoke.
"What?"
"Didn't you get it in your ear piece?" he asked.
"It was all staticky."
"Hmm," he shrugged innocently.
"Wait, you set me up? You knew the ear piece was bad?" she growled again.
"It only failed when I saw how this was going to end. You can thank Victor for that, he was at the controls."
"Oh, I'll thank him alright." She sassed.
"We just wanted you to be safe." He spoke. "If that's a crime, then draw and quarter me, I'm guilty." He smiled his most innocent smile.
Chloe rolled her eyes. "Seriously, you can't charm your way out of everything,."
"Mostly everything." His grin grew.
"And this is what life is like with you huh?"
"Oh it gets so much better." He was now full on grinning like a fool.
She rolled her eyes again but couldn't help but laugh at him for the huge innocent smile on his face. "So now what?"
"There's a party going on inside and dinner to be had," he spoke leading her back into the ball room. He leaned and whispered in her ear, "And at 600 dollars a plate, the food is guaranteed to be great."
Chloe stopped dead in her tracks, her face fell. "Sorry how much?" she looked at him. He was grinning from ear to ear.
"Come on Miss Sullivan," he challenged. Chloe looked up to the sky and said a silent prayer and let him lead her back into the gala.
00000
The rest of the evening was uneventful and in Chloe's mind, utterly amazing. Oliver was relaxed and so graceful in a totally and innately masculine way, she wanted to pull him into a corner and have her merry way with him.
Dinner, her biggest fear, was nothing if not mundane. As he had promised all the right silver was brought with each dish. The waiter would pull hers off the table, in a slight of hand so no one was the wiser.
And dancing? Oh they danced, those lessons in Kansas, well it was so much better than that in the dress and the heels. She truly felt like Cinderella. Only at the stroke of midnight she didn't separate from her Prince. They left the gala after 1 in the morning.
Oliver pulled his gloves off in the limo and set them aside. He laid a hand on Chloe's knee; her head was resting back against the seat and she sighed, eyes closed.
"Well?" he asked.
"It was a great night," she looked up at him.
"Good I'm glad you had fun." He grinned.
"I did thanks."
"Look, I wish I could have you come to my Penthouse with me, I..."
"Ollie, it's ok. You have to maintain appearances. I get it." She put her hand on his knee. "And when you feel brave enough, we still need to talk about the next 8 months."
"Angel." He whispered.
"Don't, the way I see it, you have a fairy tale that's unfinished." She spoke softly. "And maybe there's a way to give the Prince his Happily Ever After."
"Really?" he asked.
"I really used to think that reporting was all that there was to life, now I'm really not sure. All I'm really sure about is that, I don't want to know what it's like without you in my life. And admitting this is..." Oliver's lips were on hers.
"You're amazing you know that?" he spoke softly.
"No, but if I keep hearing it, sooner or later I may start to believe it." She smiled.
"That's a promise." He spoke. The limo pulled up to the Palace and A.C and Jet were waiting at the sidewalk.
The limo door opened and then Oliver stepped out and helped Chloe out. They walked side by side into the lobby of the hotel to the elevator. Jet hit the button, and the doors opened. He turned to face her and pulled her hand to his lips. "It was a pleasure, Miss Sullivan, thank you for the honor, good night." He grinned.
"It was certainly an adventure. Thank you so much for the invite, good night, Your Highness," she beamed. He shook his head at the comment then entered..
"Good night." He spoke softly as the doors closed.
The next elevator door opened and Chloe and A.C entered and it closed. "What a night huh?" he spoke.
"Oh A.C I'm in soo much trouble." She looked up at him. He just smiled.
"Come on, let me buy you a cup of coffee, you can give the police your statement, then we can talk." He grinned. Chloe nodded. The elevator reached her floor and they walked to her room, he opened the door, checked it before she gained entry.
"I'm going to change." She frowned.
"Did you get pictures?" he spoke.
"The papps did."
A.C pulled out his phone and started taking pictures, "There, now you have your own." He grinned.
"Can you unzip me?" she asked. He smiled and nodded as he went and lowered her zipper just enough.
"I'll brew the coffee," he spoke as she went into the bedroom to change.
There was a knock at her door and A.C looked to see a badge flashed into the peep hole. He opened the door to see a very tired Constable standing at the door.
"I'm here for the statement," he spoke.
"Come on in." A.C spoke.
Chloe came out dressed in fuzzy slippers and the bath robe provided. She sat and gave the officer her statement. An hour later, she and A.C were sitting on the sofa sipping coffee.
"Ok Sunshine, lay it on me." He smiled.
"I…" she looked at the clock. "It's late, I can tell you later."
"But will you sleep?" he asked. "It's kind of scary giving up what you know to move on to other things." He paused and took a sip of his coffee. "But it's worth the sacrifice."
"Talking from experience?" she asked.
"More than you know." He grinned.
"I really like him, A.C. Honestly, I love him."
"But?"
"In 8 months he's going to take over his dad's throne, he'll be a King." She frowned. "Lois and Clark have given me their blessing."
"But?"
"I've worked so hard on my career."
"Are you really using the Paper as your argument or is it your fear of him being a King." He spoke. "Because if that's the case, then you really are crazy, it's a title, Chlo, a job." He sighed. "I would know."
"What?"
"We've been friends for a long time; I know I've never really talked about where I'm from. My step dad raised me and I adore him. But someday I may have to face the same fate Oliver is."
"A.C you're making no sense."
"My mother and birth father were the King and Queen of Atlantis. My affinity of water comes from them. When my Uncle decides he's done with ruling, I'm the next in line."
"You're a p-p-p Prince?" she asked.
"Does it change how you think of me?"
"Well, no."
"Well then?" he asked. "Your friends will be your friends no matter where you are. You think Bart could give you up? Puh lease. And Vic? You are his best friend to. Just like me. I will go to where ever you are Sunshine no one can stop me."
"Thanks, A.C" she smiled.
"Think nothing of it. The next 8 months could be the best of your life, if you let it. He really is crazy about you. It's nice to finally see you find your smile. I'm grateful to him for that."
Chloe just leaned and hugged him. "Thank you, too all of you guys for being my best friends."
"We were lucky when we found you, Sunshine." He grinned.
"It goes both ways." She smiled and yawned.
"With that, it's my cue to go." He stood. He walked to the door, Chloe followed.
"Vic and Bart will be heading to Spain in tomorrow. I'm staying to still act as your security until you head home."
Chloe nodded then cocked her head, "So you would be King A.C?" she asked grinning. He just blushed.
"Oh Sunshine," he rolled his eyes. "For you, it's Orin." He spoke staring at her. She stood on her tip toes and kissed his cheek. "Good night Chlo." He spoke and left. Chloe locked the door and leaned against it. She closed her eyes and pretended she was still dancing at gala. She raised her arms as if she were dancing with Oliver and swayed to the music in her head, making her way across the room to her bedroom, closing the door behind her.
00000
"Ohhh Joe," Mary spoke the next morning to her husband as she served him breakfast. "Our young guest was the Prince of a country?" she smiled. "I knew there was something special about him." She grinned. "He's such a good man." She beamed.
"Who?"
"Oliver Marshall," she replied.
"He was nice."
"Yes he was." She smiled and sat to eat her breakfast.
00000
Oliver woke at 8 then next morning his brain not allowing for more. He had been up late giving his statement to the Constable. He then closed his eyes and memories rushed through his head. His Angel, the gala, all of it and it left a smile on his face. The whole truth was out and she didn't run, didn't freak. She said she wanted to give his fairy tale Prince a happy ending. He shook his head, last night was incredible, the ending of the Guntar drama and Chloe being in his world, and she was perfect. He climbed out of bed and headed into the bathroom.
00000
Chloe woke at 9 and felt more rested then she had in a while. She got up and went and showered. When she was done, and dressed she went into her living room. There was a bouquet of Tulips waiting for her. Her cell phone rang, she ran to get it from the bed room.
"Hello?"
:Good morning, Angel, did you sleep well?:
"I slept like a baby, how about you?"
:I slept very well, if you're not busy, you want to come up for breakfast?:
"I would love to, is it?"
:I need to finish my interview…..I'll see you in a few.: and the phone went dead.
Chloe smiled, grabbed her steno from her purse and ran to the door. She opened it to see A.C standing at the door.
"Ready?" he asked. Chloe nodded. He led her to the elevator and when he hit a floor lower she looked confused. They went down a floor and Chloe just followed. They stopped in front of a room and A.C pulled out a key card from his pocket. He opened the door and let Chloe walk by him. She could smell the bacon and coffee. She walked around the corner to see Oliver sitting at the table with Bart and Vic. He saw her enter and stood and went to her and pulled her into a hug.
"Good morning." He whispered in her ear.
"Good morning." She purred.
"Aweeeeee." Bart, Vic, and A.C spoke.
"Can it guys." She spoke as turned to face her boys while wrapping an arm around Oliver's waist. Oliver kissed her temple. She turned to face him. "What are you doing here?"
"Saying thank you for a job well done," he smiled. "This team of yours is fantastic, Angel." He led her to the table and pulled her chair out for her.
"Thanks."
"You're very welcome," he spoke.
"So you're really going to be a King?" Bart asked.
"I'm afraid so." Oliver answered as he sat next to Chloe. He was Ollie again, in jeans and a button up shirt that was untucked.
"That has to be sort of cool?" he asked. "Like do you get a crown?"
"Unfortunately a big one." He shrugged as he drank coffee.
"I have tons of questions about your software." Vic spoke.
"I have some upgrades that would blow your mind." Oliver smiled.
"Ah, dude, Chloe, this guy is cool." Vic spoke.
"I agree, he's pretty cool." She smiled.
"I talked to Mary this morning." Ollie spoke.
"And?"
"She loved her flowers and sends her best." He smiled.
"Sounds like Mary." She spoke. There was a knock on the door and A.C went to get it. Standing at the door was Jet.
"Come on in, dude." A.C spoke. Jet nodded and seemed rather shy.
"Good morning Jet, glad you could make it."
"Thank you Sire." he spoke. Bart chuckled and Vic smacked the back of his head.
"Grab a chair, have some breakfast," he smiled. "You know you could share with them your…skills." He spoke. Jet went white as a sheet.
"Prince," he spoke shaking his head.
"This group may understand." He smiled. "It's okay, really."
The room was quiet and Chloe was watching with keen interest. Jet sighed and sat down at the empty seat. He gestured toward an empty coffee cup and it levitated into his hand.
"I told you Angel, from another country, not another Planet." He smiled.
"Dude," Bart spoke.
Jet looked nervous. "It's okay, Jet," A.C spoke. He poured the man coffee. "Welcome to the club." He smiled.
00000
After an hour the guys cleared out. Jet and A.C went to go play Halo in Chloe's room. "So, I sent an email to your editor, regarding you staying here until Sunday, with me, if you don't mind." Ollie spoke. The two were curled up on the couch. Chloe was leaning into Oliver and he had an arm wrapped around her.
"I don't mind, I was dreading having to leave today." She smiled.
"I was dreading you leaving too." He kissed the back of her head.
"So…." She spoke spinning to face him.
"Yeah."
"King Ollie?" she smiled.
"Oh boy." He shook his head. "Yes, King Oliver."
"In 8 months?" she asked and he nodded.
"Yeah, it's in the laws."
"You had mentioned an arranged marriage?"
"I guess I need to explain the succession law." He spoke solemnly about the traditions and the fact that all successors have been married. . "But the woman that had been chosen by my father eloped; she married her school sweet heart."
"Wow."
"I know, they're old laws, I have a team of litigators trying to get them updated and put before parliament, but it takes time." He frowned
"None of this changes how I feel, Oliver. It just makes where we go from here a little challenging." She smiled.
"I get to stay in the US for another month. I talked to my father about Mr. Wayne's inquiry and I'm off to Gotham on Sunday."
"Then back to Baldivia?"
"I'm afraid so." He frowned. He pulled Chloe on his lap and she rested her head against his shoulder.
"And what about us?"
"What about us? I don't give up so easily Angel, where there is a will there is most definitely a way." He grinned and kissed her warmly. "Come on let's not worry about what tomorrow might bring, Vic said he DVR'd some great movies." He smiled.
00000
Oliver was very clever it seemed. As Chloe returned to her life in Metropolis, hurricane Oliver was taking Gotham by storm. He was seen all over, at museums, parties, and he took a tour of Wayne Enterprises. All the single ladies were trying to land him, but he only smiled and was his politically polite self. All the while, he would send texts, IM's and at night, vid chat with Chloe.
Huge economic ties for Baldivia were made, Oliver was doing well. It was his last night in the states and Chloe had lost track of him. He was supposed to fly to New York and then leave the country, but she never heard any more detail. Her life had gone from great to Ok. She loved reporting, but her passion just wasn't the same. Her heart belonged to something else entirely but she wasn't sure at all she could keep him.
She was at her condo, dressed for relaxation, in her comfies; popcorn in the microwave and a stack of her favorite movies on the coffee table. She was thinking of Oliver when there was a knock at her door. She had ordered Chinese food and looked through her peep hole. She saw what she assumed was the delivery guy wearing a baseball cap backwards, holding the food over his face.
"Gosh, your delivery took forever." She spoke as she opened the door and rifled through her bill fold for the money to pay.
"Sorry but traffic was such a nightmare." It was accented voice, his accented voice. Chloe looked up and gaped. She squealed with delight and leaped into his arms and hugged him tight. "Hello," he purred in her ear.
"I wasn't sure where you were?"
"I was trying to keep it under wraps so I could get here." He smiled pulling back and looking into her face.
"You're here?" she smiled. He nodded and kissed her gently, he cupped her face in his hands to deepen the kiss.
He pulled back slightly, "Let's go inside," he whispered. Chloe nodded and stepped backwards, pulling him into her home. He closed the door with his foot. Chloe reached up and pulled his baseball cap off.
"Promise you won't wear these anymore." She whispered. He nodded. He gently traced the outline out of her face with his index finger.
"A month is entirely too long to be away from you, to not be able to touch you." He kissed first one cheek and then the other. He rested his hands on her shoulders. "Come," he purred again and moved to lead her to her bed room. Chloe could only follow, her heart racing in her chest, since he left on his trip to Gotham, she had been haunted and distracted by dreams of him. She knew he was noble but she didn't think she could wait.
Once they crossed the threshold Chloe grabbed him by his shirt collar and spun him, closing the door with his body.
"Something on your mind Angel?" he smiled
