A Strong Heart and Soft Touch

A/N: Hey guys! I just wanted to say that this chapter's a little bit on the shorter side, and it's ALL fluffy figments of my imagination. Like I told you guys last chapter, I hate how Book 3 glosses over Drake's not minor injury, so this chapter is - spoiler alert - all about that. I know this isn't canon, but I worked hard on this chapter, did TONS of research, and really tried getting into Drake's head for this one (Possible Trigger Warning (?): slight mentions and symptoms of PTSD), so I hope you guys like it. With that said, as always, thanks for reading, and I hope you enjoy!

"... just held onto this for so long… but after everything that's happened, I just… don't want to keep holding on to it anymore. I'm so sorry, Mom. I'm so… s-so sorry!"

I floated in the darkness, dimly aware of Myers' voice, but it seemed so far away… and she was crying… why was she crying? Myers… I tried my best to follow the sound of her voice, until it gradually became louder… clearer.

"I know… I just… I felt so lost after you left… and I blamed you for how I felt. I blamed you for tearing up our family. And I shut you out…"

Myers…

I squeezed my eyes, just realizing they were still closed. I was so tired… God, I felt like I'd been hit by a bus, or run over by an elephant, or something. Just opening my eyes took a monumental effort. The first thing I saw were hazy, blurry white lights. Too bright…

"Myers." I managed to let out a hoarse whisper.

"Mom, I have to go! He's waking up! Okay, love you, bye!"

I felt pressure on my hand, my eyes fluttering closed.

"Drake…" Another, more insistent, pressure on my hand. Fingers around mine, intertwining. "Drake, baby, can you hear me?"

I tried opening my eyes again with everything in me, and this time, instead of bright lights, the first thing I saw were those deep brown eyes. Their corners were crinkled, and they were shining so brightly - a flurry of relief, happiness and adoration. "Myers…" I whispered, a little bit louder this time, my eyes closing on their own.

"Hey, baby."

I tried to lift my hand to her face, but realized my hand was already in hers. "Myers…"

"I'm here. How are you feeling?" She whispered.

"Thirsty."

"Here." I felt her press a straw against my lips, and I drank. Cool, crisp water flooded my mouth. "Ssh… slowly, Drake, drink slowly."

I tried to listen, and slowed down, pushing the straw out of my mouth when I was done. I tried my best to squeeze her hand in thanks, but I felt darkness begin to pull me in again. Without another word, I succumbed to it.

I woke up god knows how many hours later, to dimmer lights and moonlight outside my window. And when I turned my head, the first thing I saw was Myers, asleep on a chair next to my bed, her hand still in mine. My lips quirked into a half smile, and I gently squeezed her hand, causing her to jolt awake.

"Drake! You're awake." She stood up quickly, rushing to my side. I couldn't help but notice the puffiness around her eyes, as well as how red they were.

"Hey, Myers." My voice was hoarse, and my mouth was dry.

"Hi." She whispered, pressing her forehead against mine, letting out a shaky breath. "How are you feeling?"

"Like a truck ran over me, but other than that I'm okay."

Myers chuckled. "Those must be the painkillers. Are you thirsty?" I nodded, and she immediately held up a glass of water with a straw. Myers placed it gently in my mouth, and held it as I drank. "So… in case you were wondering, your surgery was a success. Dr. Yonekura was able to remove all of the bullet shards, and stop the bleeding for good."

I shook my head and she placed the glass on the counter. "That's good."

"It's great." She looked around. "I feel like maybe I should call a nurse. I'm pretty sure they wanted to check up on you when you woke up."

I took her hand and squeezed. "Later." I tried to pull her closer. "Come here."

"But the nurse-"

"Can wait. I want to be with my fiance." Myers' eyes immediately softened, and she gave in. She was about to sit back down on the chair, but I pulled her hand. "This bed's pretty big. I think we can both fit in here."

"Are you sure?"

"Positive."

Myers smiled gleefully, and walked around to the other side of the bed, before climbing under the covers with me. She snuggled up to me, resting her head on my good shoulder, sighing contentedly. "I'm so happy you're okay."

I snorted. "You're telling me. How long have I been out?"

"All afternoon? You got out of the OR around… six, and you woke up briefly before falling back asleep. And now…" She looked at the time on her phone. "Wow, it's 4 a.m. Okay… make that 'all night'."

I chuckled and rubbed her arm absent-mindedly. We both stayed silent for a moment, just enjoying each other's company, when it hit me… "Hey, did you call your parents?"

Myers laughed. "Yeah… Both of them, in fact…"

"You mean…"

"Yep… I finally called my Mom."

"You mean you didn't call her throughout the whole season?!"

"... And the engagement tour." Myers admitted sheepishly.

"I- Myers…"

"I know! I know… it's just that… I figured my dad kept her updated, so… what was the point in talking to her myself? But after the shooting…"

"It made you rethink things." I told her.

"Yeah…" she looked pensively at the floor.

"Hey." I tilted her chin so that she'd meet my eyes. "I think you're doing a good thing… trying to mend your relationship with your mother."

"Thank you." Myers pressed a soft kiss to my lips. "I love you."

"I love you too. So… did you tell your parents about the engagement?"

A bright smile immediately spread over Myers' face. "I did."

I looked at her expectantly. "And…"

Myers laughed. "And they're very happy for us. Wendy, in particular, was jumping up and down with joy. My dad had his… reservations, mostly because we've only known each other for a little less than a year."

"Right…" Feels like a lifetime, though.

"But Wendy and I managed to convince him that if you were willing to take a bullet for me… you must love me a little, at least." She teased.

I laughed. "Yeah, I mean I am fond of you."

"You earned major brownie points with my dad, by the way. Apparently they saw in the news that you were one of the shooting victims, but they didn't know it was because you jumped in front of a bullet that was meant for me…"

I chuckled, despite the severity of the fact. "I'd do it again. Hey, so… the shooting was international news?"

"Yeah… it sucks but… I guess horrible news travel fast."

"Tell me about it." I shook my head. "Anyway, what about your mom?" I was a little nervous about that, because from what Myers told me… I was sure she would've preferred that her daughter married the King.

"My mom… took the news surprisingly well, actually. She was pretty excited and can't wait to meet you."

"Wow… I thought… maybe…"

"Me too, honestly. But, like I said, you get major brownie points for saving my life." Myers failed to completely cover her yawn then.

My own eyes felt heavy - hell my whole body felt heavy. "I'd do it again in a heartbeat. But now…"

"You should go back to sleep." Myers moved to get up, but I held her tight.

"So should you. In a proper bed, not that chair."

"Well… technically this isn't a proper bed, so…" She got up anyway, and pressed a kiss to my forehead. "Sleep."

My eyelids began to droop, but I tried to fight her on this. "You need to rest too."

"I know, and I will. The chair's more comfortable than it looks. Now, ssh… Sleep…"

I drifted off, the feeling of her lips on my forehead and a whispered "I love you" being the last thing I remembered.

The next morning, an orderly brought breakfast for me as a nurse checked my vitals. Myers stood by my side quietly, her eyes a little less puffy, but equally red rimmed. There were dark circles forming underneath them too.

"Myers… you should go get some breakfast."

She simply shook her head. "Hana will bring me something from the cafeteria when they get here."

"Yeah, but visiting hours start in two hours…"

"Drake-"

Dr. Yonekura strolled in, chart in hand, and effectively cut off Myers' protest. "I'm afraid Drake is right, Your Grace. I'd hate to release him with a clean bill of health, only to have to admit you at the same time for fatigue or exhaustion."

"I'm fine, Doctor. Truly. I'm not even hungry."

"Camilla." The doctor gave her a motherly look - that typical stern look with pursed lips and narrowed eyes. "Go get some breakfast. Hopefully something carb-heavy. And some tea. I promise to keep you updated on Drake's condition, and to fill you in when you return."

Myers bit her lip, looking just like a toddler who'd been reprimanded. I nearly laughed as I pictured her kicking dust off the floor with her hands behind her back. "Fine…" She sighed. "I'll be right back."

"I know, Your Grace." The doctor chuckled as she watched Myers walk away, before turning to me. "So, Mr. Walker, how are you feeling today?"

"Better. Much better."

"How is your pain level?"

"A five."

Dr. Yonekura narrowed her eyes at me suspiciously. "You know, I'm suddenly regretting sending Her Grace away…"

"I promise you, Doc, I'm telling the truth."

She stared at me for one long second, before relenting. "Very well." She began inspecting my bandages. "You know… Her Grace hasn't left your side since we came out of the O.R…." Dr. Yonekura looked at me with a sly smile on her face, before returning to my shoulder. "Between that, and that diamond on her finger, the whole hospital is buzzing with excitement, maybe expecting a certain announcement to be made soon…?"

"You'd figure, in a place like this, they'd have something better to do." I teased. "You know, like saving people's lives and all…"

Dr. Yonekura let out a hearty laugh. "Yes, you'd think so, wouldn't you? You'd be surprised how fast gossip travels in this hospital. Especially when royalty is involved."

"Right…" I rubbed the back of my neck, a bit uncomfortable. I never was in the spotlight - one of the perks of being invisible - but… it hit me right then that after I married Myers… I'd also be a public figure. It made me a little uncomfortable, if I was being completely honest. "Hey, doc…?"

"Yes?"

"I… Is there any chance… I mean, could we… the staff… they wouldn't..."

"Drake, you have nothing to worry about. Our staff likes to gossip, but they'd never stoop so low so as to sell out one of our patients to the tabloids. I can assure you that you have our complete discretion."

I sighed, very relieved. "Thanks, doc."

It would really suck if news of our engagement were leaked to the press. Not to mention, how bad that would be for the Unity Tour. The whole point of this celebrity wedding was to stabilize the country, so if the tabloids got wind of it before an official statement was released, it would defeat our entire goal. It got me thinking about how we should play this announcement, how to ensure the news wouldn't be leaked to the press, and how we could kill the story quickly if it did.

"What's on your mind, Drake?" Dr. Yonekura interrupted my thoughts.

I shook my head. "Just thinking about how I can help with the wedding announcement."

The doctor hummed. "You're the groom. I think your mere presence will be enough."

"No… I meant… I want to do something to help Myers and Liam… something to boost morale in the country, as well as get people excited for the wedding."

"How will the announcement be released? In a statement, a press conference…?"

"A press conference."

"Well, when Prince Harry and Meghan Markle got married, they granted certain news outlets exclusive interviews, to talk about their relationship."

I cringed. I refused to give those vultures any more details into mine and Myers' private life. They didn't deserve it after the way they treated her. But…

"Maybe not an interview… but how about engagement photographs? Hell, Myers and I could even keep a couple to commemorate our engagement!" I said excitedly.

Dr. Yonekura grinned. "I think Her Grace will love it."

I got my phone from the counter and texted Maxwell. "Hey, can you text me Ana De Luca's number?" He sent me the number immediately, no questions asked. I loved that about Maxwell - how he really trusted me, no matter what. "Thank you. I'll explain later!" I responded, before dialing the phone.

Ms. De Luca herself picked up after the first ring. "I don't have this number registered, so I will give you one minute to get my attention before hanging up."

"Ms. De Luca, Drake Walker." I didn't feel the need to elaborate more. As a gossip columnist or whatever it was that she did, I knew she must know me at least by reputation, given I was part of the King's inner circle and all.

"Mr. Walker. To what do I owe the pleasure?"

"I was wondering… How would you like to be the photographer for the engagement shoot of Cordonia's newest duchess?"

There was silence on the line for about ten seconds, before she finally spoke up. "I believe you have my full and undivided attention, Mr. Walker."

I proceeded to explain the situation quickly, my eyes glued to the door. Ana De Luca agreed to the photoshoot, as long as she got to release the pictures on her magazine after the official announcement was made, and we agreed that I would call her back once I was released from the hospital to set the date. We also agreed that, until then, she would have to sign a non-disclosure agreement, stating that she could release the photos only after the statement was made.

I hung up the phone just as Dr. Yonekura signaled me that Myers was coming, and soon I heard footsteps in the hall. Myers rushed back into the room. Her chest was heaving slightly when she walked into the room, a cup of tea in her hand and a sandwich on the other one.

"Your Grace. I was just finishing checking on Drake's wound. So far, it looks like it's healing well, and there are no signs of infection." The good doctor covered for me.

Myers nodded, moving next to my bed. "That's great!"

"Yes, it is. We shall keep you in observation for five more days, and if in that time the wound still shows no signs of infection, you will be released."

Those five days passed quickly and uneventfully. Myers stayed by my side, never wavering, and our friends visited me every day. I called Ana De Luca back to set the date for the photoshoot, informing her of my release.

Later that day, the guys managed to convince Myers to go back to the palace for a quick shower and a change of clothes, and Savannah stayed with me. We decided to video call Mom, since I hadn't talked to her since before the attack, and she was probably worried sick.

She picked up after the fourth ring. "Hello?"

"Hi, mom."

"Drake Walker! How dare you jump in front of a bullet? Do you want to end up just like your father?!" Mom had very angry tears in her eyes.

"Mom." Savannah said, trying to calm her down.

"And to top that, I had to hear about it from your sister?! At three in the morning?!"

"Mom!" I waited for her to stop shouting. "I'm sorry, really. I didn't mean to worry you. I know… I know this must have brought memories of when Dad…"

She sniffled, nodding. "It's one thing to have to bury your husband… your partner, the love of your life. I wouldn't wish it on anyone. But I never want to know what it feels like to have to bury your own child."

"Aww, Mom… you won't. I'm fine. I'm sorry I hadn't called before. I just had surgery yesterday."

"Yes, your sister told me. Thanks honey, for that, by the way."

"You're welcome, Mom." Savannah smiled kindly next to me.

"How did it go?" Mom asked me.

"According to the doctor, it went pretty well. They got everything out, and it's healing, so… if it doesn't get infected, I should be out of here by the end of the week."

Mom breathed a sigh of relief. "Well, thank goodness for that. But, baby… just… how? Your sister was standing right next to you and she managed to get out unharmed… what happened?"

Uh…

Savannah looked at me with a wicked grin. "I think Dad's heroics rubbed off on Drake a little too much."

Mom rolled her eyes. "You took a bullet for Liam, didn't you?" She sighed, shaking her head.

"No…" I said quietly. I… still hadn't told Mom about Myers yet.

"Not Liam, Mom." Savannah added.

"Then who?" She looked at both of us with furrowed brows.

Savannah looked at me pointedly. "Come on!" She mouthed, "Tell her!"

"Uh…" How did I even begin? With something like "Mom, do you remember the American from the tabloids?" or should I just blurt out "my fiance"?

"Drake, I'm waiting…" Mom looked at me impatiently.

"If you don't tell her, I will." Savannah pressed, grinning impishly and squirming with anticipation.

"Fine!" I said through gritted teeth. "Mom… I'm getting married."

"What?!" There was a moment of silence as my mom's jaw dropped. "Wait, what does that have to do wi- oh!"

Savannah nodded. "The assassins threatened his fiance, so…"

"Wait, who even is this girl?!"

"Um… Maybe you've seen her in the news? Camilla Myers?" I said hesitantly.

"The new Duchess?" Mom shrieked. "You're marrying the new Duchess?!" I didn't know her jaw could hang any lower. "The American who was in the running for Liam's hand? The one who was in the tabloids a few weeks back, because she cheated on him or something?!"

I rolled my eyes. "She didn't cheat on him; it was all a set-up."

"But… but she was supposed to be in Cordonia for Liam." Mom looked at me with narrowed eyes.

I looked to Savannah for help. "Yeah, she originally came here for Liam, but she fell in love with Drake instead! Isn't that romantic, Mom?"

Mom looked unconvinced. "Mm-hmm…" She sighed. "So… let me guess, the gun was pointed at her and you jumped in the way?"

"Pretty much." I mumbled, looking down.

"Oh, honey…" Mom shook her head. "You must really love her, huh?"

I nodded. "I do."

"And you'll love her too, Mom! Milla's the nicest person in the world." Savannah jumped in. "And… she really loves Drake. I mean… she puts up with all his grumpiness and all his weird hang-ups."

Mom snorted a laugh at that. "Well, if she puts up with all of that… she must really love you, son."

I laughed, so relieved. "I know, Mom."

We kept talking for a while, about Myers, the shooting and the surgery. Savannah updated her on the baby, and on moving back to Cordonia. Mom updated us on how the ranch was doing… We talked for a long time, until Mom finally had to go help Aunt Lee. The guys came back not long after, bringing back really delicious take-out. No offense to hospital food, but… well, let's just say I appreciated the gesture.

Another day, shortly after his own release, Bastien stopped by to visit me too. He rapped on the door, leaning heavily on a wooden cane. "Drake. Your Grace."

"Bastien!" I exclaimed. "Hey, come on in!"

Myers stood to greet him, enveloping him in a brief hug. "Hi, Bastien. I'm so glad you're safe."

Bastien couldn't hide the surprise in his face, patting Myers awkwardly on the back. "Oh! Thank you, Your Grace. I'm also very glad you're all safe." He eyed me. "Drake, included. You saved his life, you know."

Myers shook her head. "He saved mine first. I think we can call it even."

"You did admirably, Your Grace."

"Just Milla, please. There's no need for formalities here."

"I…" Bastien looked very uncomfortable in that moment.

I snorted. "Myers, you'd have better luck ordering him to drop the formalities before getting him to willingly drop them."

Myers merely rolled her eyes, and chuckled. "Okay… well, I'm sure you guys have plenty to talk about, so… I think I'm going to go visit Justin for a bit." She squeezed my hand, the diamond glinting under the harsh lights, and left the room.

I noticed how Bastien narrowed his eyes at us, before moving to sit down. He sighed and turned to me. "Drake… what you did… how could you be so reckless?"

I rolled my eyes. Here we go…

"I'm serious. Don't you look at me like that!" He huffed indignantly. "You are just like your father. Always acting before thinking."

"There was a gun pointed at Myers. There wasn't exactly much time to think!"

"Do you realize the only reason you are alive is because of pure luck? Your father wasn't so lucky. If that bullet had struck you an inch below or to the side… you could have died, Drake."

"I know! I know… but what was the other alternative, letting her get shot?"

Bastien sighed. "No, I suppose not." His lips quirked in the slightest hint of a smile. "You were very brave, and… I'm proud of you."

I grinned, leaning upwards a little bit to pull him into a careful hug. "Thanks."

He pulled back and sat in Myers' chair with a grunt. "So… you and Lady Camilla?"

I rubbed the back of my neck. "Uh… yeah."

"I have to say, after seeing the both of you that night in the beer garden, I figured you were together… that and the fact that His Majesty never said anything after that night in New York."

"Yeah… Myers… rejected his proposal in New York, so… you could say we're together."

"That ring on her finger says a lot more than that." Bastien gave me a teasing smirk.

"Yeah…" I rubbed the back of my neck nervously. "After the shooting, I just figured… why wait? I love her. And for some reason, she feels the same. So…"

"Well… I'm very happy for you, Drake."

"Thanks." I nodded. "Listen, uh… since I've got you here… we don't have all the details figured out yet, obviously… but I'd really like it if… you could be one of my groomsmen." I watched as Bastien tried very hard to fight a smile, but it won out anyway. "I know the wedding's going to be a mess and with the attack and everything, you'll probably be busy with security, but…"

Bastien stopped me with a slight shake of his head, his eyes soft. "I'd be honored, Drake. Thank you."

I laughed. "No, thank you."

Myers came back then. "Hey guys. Justin was asleep, so… I don't want to interrupt, I'm going down to the cafeteria. Do you guys want anything?"

Bastien stood. "That won't be necessary, Your Grace. I should be getting back to the palace anyway."

"But…"

"Really, Your Grace. You should stay with Drake. I need to get going anyway."

"Okay…"

Bastien placed his hand on my good shoulder and squeezed. He began walking out, but stopped in front of Myers. "Your Grace… I hope I'm not out of line, but… congratulations."

Myers smiled warmly at him. "Thank you, Bastien."

"If I may…" He turned to look at me. "I had a hunch Drake would own up to his feelings sooner or later."

"Hey!" I protested

Myers laughed. "So did I."

"I'm still right here!" I shouted.

"Yes, we know." Bastien chuckled. "Goodbye, Drake, Your Grace."

He nodded at us, and left the room. Myers walked in, leaning on the bed next to me, and running her fingers through my hair. "So… you told him of the engagement?"

I snorted. "Myers… that ring speaks for itself."

Myers hummed appreciatively. "It does, doesn't it?" She looked down warmly at me, before leaning to press a soft kiss to my lips. Suddenly, she pulled back, her eyes wide. "Should I take it off? The staff…"

"Have already seen it. According to Dr. Yonekura, the hospital staff's been buzzing for days about the Duchess who won't leave my side and the ring on that particular finger. Don't worry, she assured me they'd be discreet."

Myers breathed out a sigh of relief. "Okay… I hope she's right."

Finally, after what felt like an eternity, the day of my release finally arrived. Nurses with clipboards and paperwork were in and out of my room all morning, dealing with the bureaucratic crap. Dr. Yonekura checked the wound on my shoulder one last time and taught me and Myers how to change the dressing. It would need to be changed at least once a day, maybe more if there was slight discharge from the wound, which was completely normal. She gave us both a pamphlet with all the instructions for surgery aftercare, and took time to answer all of our- or well, Myers' questions.

"... these water-proof bandages that he can use while in the shower. Try your best to not get the wound wet. Water helps breed bacteria, which would lead to infection."

"Mm-hmm, mm-hmm." Myera nodded, dutifully typing all of the instructions quickly on her phone. "And if we begin noticing some signs of infections?"

"You call me immediately and bring him to the hospital. Here is my personal number." Dr. Yonekura handed Myers a card. "You can text me or call me, and I will try to get back to you as quickly as possible. In case of emergency, like an unusually high fever, just bring him here right away."

"Okay."

"Now, Mr. Walker, I have written you a prescription with all of your medication, as well as to the frequency you need to take them." She handed Myers a printed prescription.

Myers read over it. "Sleeping pills?" She asked, her eyebrows drawn in concern.

Dr. Yonekura nodded. "Only if necessary." She turned to me. "Mr. Walker, remember what I said about our psychology team. If you feel unwell, have trouble sleeping or recurring nightmares, I beg you to pay them a visit."

I nodded. "I will, Doc."

She nodded, seemingly satisfied. "Very well. Any other questions, Drake? Your Grace?"

I shook my head slightly. Dr. Yonekura looked at Myers, who was fiddling with her phone, rereading all the instructions. The doctor smirked, clearly amused.

"Um… no, I think I've got everything." Myers said finally.

The doctor chuckled kindly, and I simply laughed. A part of me wanted to tell Myers not to worry so much, but another part… kind of liked how much she cared for me.

"Well then, Mr. Walker, a nurse will be by momentarily with your discharge papers. You will need to sign and then… you're free to go."

I breathed a sigh of relief. "Great."

"I hope, if everything goes well, to see you in two weeks, and not a minute earlier." The good doctor walked over to my gurney and offered me her hand.

I shook it. "Me too, doc. See you in two weeks."

Dr. Yonekura nodded, before offering her hand to Myers. "Your Grace. It was great to meet you."

"You too, Doctor." Myers shook her hand eagerly. "Thank you so much, for everything."

Dr. Yonekura merely chuckled. "You're welcome, Your Grace. If I may…" Myers nodded. "Do try not to worry too much, Camilla. Drake will be just fine. Remember to take care of yourself, too."

Myers laughed. "I'll try, doctor."

Dr. Yonekura raised her eyebrows at her, looking at me incredulously.

"I'll keep an eye on her, Doc." I told her.

After a chuckle, the doctor bowed her head and walked out. I got up, and began pulling my pants on. Myers helped me put on my shirt just in time for a nurse to come in with my discharge papers. After signing, she left and an orderly came by with a wheelchair.

"That won't be necessary." I told him, picking up my bag just to show him I could.

He merely shrugged and laughed. "Sorry. Hospital policy."

I rolled my eyes, and sat down on the chair. Myers took my bag and the orderly began to wheel me out of the hospital.

After a short drive, we arrived back at the palace. Myers led me to one of the smaller, private dining rooms, strangely quiet. She didn't say a word until we reached the room, and opened the door.

"Welcome home!" Liam, Hana, Maxwell and my sister shouted excitedly.

My jaw dropped as I took in the room, Myers laughing next to me. There was a big banner with the words 'Welcome Home', the table was overflowing with food - real food - the bar was prepped with ice and whiskey, and there was music on the speakers. I was still speechless as the guys moved to hug me one by one.

"What do you think?" My sister asked, pulling me into a brief hug.

"Do you like it?" Hana asked next.

"It's… great. Thank you… all of you." I told them, looking at each one.

"It's a welcome fit for a hero." Liam said, clapping my good shoulder.

We moved to sit down and dug in. I filled my plate with a couple of slices of pizza, a couple of buffalo wings and some french fries. Myers sat next to me and offered me a glass of whiskey. I grinned at her. "Thanks, Myers."

She merely nodded, before clearing her throat. "So… I'd like to propose a toast," Myers raised her glass and we followed suit, "To Drake Walker, the bravest man in Cordonia!"

"Hear, hear!" Liam shouted.

"To Drake!" The guys toasted.

I could feel the blood rushing to my cheeks and all the way up to my ears. I cleared my throat. "Um.. thanks. It's good to be back." I raised my glass and joined them in the toast.

"So, how are you feeling, Drake?" Hana asked, looking just a little bit worried.

"I…" I hummed thoughtfully. "I'm feeling okay. My shoulder's healing, I'm finally home and I'm marrying the woman of my dreams." My eyes darted unconsciously to Liam, who gave me an encouraging smile and an almost imperceptible shake of his head. I nodded, looking back at Hana. "Things couldn't be better. Things are pretty great, actually." I couldn't help but smile at Myers, who gave me a tender, blushing grin back.

I heard the collective "Aww…" from my sister and Hana.

"So, have you two set a date yet?" Liam asked, his smile light and easy, but his eyes were guarded.

"It should be soon if we want to send the message of a strong and united Cordonia…" Myers looked at me.

"But between now and then, we need time to go to all the major duchies to invite the rest of the court." I countered. That was going to be fun…

"And you also have to actually plan the wedding." My sister added.

"Oh, I'd be happy to help in the planning in any way that I can, Milla!" Hana squealed excitedly.

"Bertrand is already at work on your wedding. He's been researching different caterers, florists, designers, bakers… although I'm the one in charge of researching musicians." Maxwell said, looking very proud of himself. "So if you have any particular requests, now's the time! What do you say? Live band? Dj?"

Myers looked at me thoughtfully. "Drake?"

I honestly didn't care… As long as I had something to dance our first dance to, I couldn't care less if it came from a band or a dj. I shrugged. "You pick."

"Well…" She looked to me uncertainly. "I've honestly never given it much thought… There's something classic to having a band croon your favorite song at your wedding… but then again, a wedding is also a party, and no one pumps up a party better than the perfect dj."

"Mm-hmm, mm-hmm…" Maxwell said, already on his phone. A second later, both our phones pinged. "I sent you a playlist with different local DJ's available for hire, as well as some awesome local bands that would be suited to your dream wedding! So give them a listen and let me know what you'd like!"

"Aww, thanks Maxwell!" Myers reached out to hug him. "We'll do that and get back to you as quickly as we can!"

Oh, boy… I can practically picture myself listening to Maxwell's playlist for the next five hours…

"Getting back on track…" I said, "I think that between the Unity Tour and Bertrand handling the wedding plans, we could be married in… a month?" I looked at Myers, trying to gauge her reaction.

"A month…" Her eyes widened just a bit, before a slow grin creeped up on her face. "Yeah… yeah!" She cupped my neck and pulled me in for a kiss.

Another collective "Aww!" went around the room.

"Cheers," Liam said, raising his glass, "to Drake and Camilla's wedding… in just a month from now."

"Cheers!" We all clicked our glasses together.

Myers sidled up next to me, phone in hand. "So…" she pulled up her calendar on her screen. "December… 7th?"

I nodded, my chest tightening with joy. "December 7th." I pulled her in for one last quick kiss, before turning back to our friends.

"Camilla, I was hoping you would join me in making a statement to the press tomorrow at the Five Kingdoms Festival. You could announce your wedding date, as well as the Unity Tour tomorrow." Liam told her.

Myers nodded. "Of course."

"So, Milla, what did your parents say when you told them?" My sister asked. "Mom is still in between shock and over the moon!"

"My parents are too, to be honest. But they support me nonetheless, and they can't wait to meet you, babe." She turned back to me. "Wendy in particular is literally counting the days to meet all of you."

"We can't wait to meet your family, Camilla." Liam said kindly.

"And what about the guys?" I asked. "Are they coming?"

"They wouldn't miss it. They really liked you, by the way. Loved you, actually."

Aww… "I really liked them too."

"I can't wait for all of you guys to meet my friends!" Myers turned back to the group, before her jaw dropped just a bit and she turned to Liam. "I hope that's okay, Liam… I know it's a courtly wedding, but…"

Liam shook his head. "It is still your wedding, Camilla. Please, don't be shy to invite all of your friends and family from New York. We have more than enough room to accommodate them all."

"Thank you, Liam."

The rest of the afternoon flew by, as we all talked, drank and ate. As night began to fall, all of us were full, happy, and satisfied.

Liam was the first to get up with a groan. "As wonderful as this has been, I really should get to bed. I have an early morning tomorrow." He moved to hug Myers, and then hugged me. "Drake, it's great to have you home."

"Thanks, Liam. It's great to be home."

"I'm going to get going too. I want to get home before Bartie falls asleep."

"Hey, where was he tonight?" Myers asked.

"Oh, with Bertrand! He offered to watch him while I came here, hoping to get some quality time with him."

"Aww… Savannah, that's great." Myers said.

"Isn't it? Oh, I really hope Bertrand was able to handle Bartie."

"I'm sure he was, sis." I pulled her in for a hug. "Thanks for coming, and for… everything."

"Of course. Love you, big brother."

"Love you too, sis."

"We'll get going too." Hana said.

"But we'll see you tomorrow at the Festival. Milla, meet in the boutique around… after lunch?" Maxwell asked.

"I'll be there." Myers nodded. "Good night guys."

They all walked out with a chorus of 'good night' and 'sweet dreams', until Myers and I were alone in the room.

"So…" she said, taking my hand.

"So." I nodded.

"Okay, I have to ask." Myers said, a sly smirk on her face. "Would it be considered terribly inappropriate if I spent the night in your room? I mean, we are getting married, after all."

I chuckled. "I mean, it wouldn't be scandalous or anything… but, like everything else in this place, it's a tradition for us to sleep in separate rooms until the wedding."

"Aww…" I saw as Myers pouted, clearly disappointed. "But it's your first night back… don't you want to… you know, celebrate?"

I couldn't help the laugh that escaped me. After a week of not celebrating, I had to admit I'd love to celebrate. But I still wanted to tease her a little bit. "Maybe… what exactly would this celebration entail?"

"Hmm…" Myers pressed herself against me, running her hands up my arms, my shoulders and my neck. "Well, it would be a private celebration, where the new Duchess of Valtoria personally thanks the Hero of Cordonia, for saving her life."

"Hero of Cordonia, huh?"

Myers nodded. "Oh, yes. A brave, valiant hero who risked his life for his beloved, his King and his Country. And I say this hero deserves a good homecoming."

I chuckled, wrapping my arms around her waist. "You know I can't say no to you, Myers."

"Lead the way." She said coquettishly.

I took her hand and began leading her through the halls of the palace, until we finally got to my room. As soon as the door was opened, I had her pressed against it, my fingers tangled in her hair and my mouth ravishing hers.

Myers moaned softly as my lips left hers, and I brushed them down her jaw. "Drake, wait…"

"What?"

"I want to see your room." I pulled back, disbelieving, as she looked around my room. It really wasn't any different than any other room at the palace, and yet Myers looked at it as if it was a grand hall at a museum. "So this is where Drake Walker sleeps…"

I rubbed the back of my neck. "Yeah…"

Myers nodded and looked back at me, a devilish smirk on her face. "Okay, I've seen enough."

"Thank god." I muttered, as we both practically jumped at each other. Myers lifted her arms and I broke the kiss only to pull her shirt over her head. She made quick work of my denim shirt and my jeans. Soon, my floor was littered with pieces of clothing. A shirt, shoes, pants...

Myers gasped and shivered when our skin made contact. I cupped her ass with both hands and lifted her up, and she wrapped her legs around my waist. After a second she pulled back. "Wait, your shoulder!"

"It's fine. Don't worry about it." I caught her mouth with my own again, effectively silencing any other protests she could have had.

I carried her over to the bed and tumbled down onto it, with Myers bracing herself with her hands on my chest. Then her eyes softened, as she ran a feather - light hand over my bandages. "Does it hurt?"

"No."

Keeping her eyes on mine, she moved down to kiss the skin around my bandages. I inhaled sharply as the feeling of her lips on my skin sent delicious chills through me. Her hands began to move in sync with her lips, traveling slowly up and down my chest, my ribs, my waist, and lower.

"Myers…" I groaned.

"Sssh." Myers climbed sultrily up my body and pressed a passionate kiss to my lips. "I told you tonight was about you. Let me take care of you, Drake."

"Well, when you put it like that…"

How could I resist?

The shot rang in my head, a thunderous BOOM that seemed to reverberate through the air.

"Camilla!" I heard Liam's voice, distant and faded.

The bullet was coming for her, leaving thin ripples on the very fabric of space and time in its wake.

"No!" I tried to run to her, but my feet seemed to be glued to the ground. "Camilla!"

I watched in slow horror as she turned her head and our eyes met across the room. I reached my arm out to her and she reached hers out to me. "Drake!"

The bullet pierced her chest, and time seemed to snap back into place. Myers tumbled to the ground, deep crimson blood slowly seeping into the bodice of her golden dress. "Camilla!" I heard myself yell, my feet finally able to move. I ran to her, cradling her body with mine. I felt as hot tears burned my eyes and slid down my cheeks, and yet when I looked down at her unmoving body…

I saw my own.

"Ah!" I jumped back, releasing my hold on… myself? My own lifeless eyes looked back up at me, my navy tux covered in blood.

"Drake!" I heard Camilla's scream, a bone-chilling, ear-splitting shriek.

Suddenly she came running from out of nowhere, and next thing I know, she's kneeling next to me - the me that was dead on the ground - cradling my head on her lap, pressing her forehead to mine. Her body shook with each chest-wracking sob, as Liam tried to pull her away from me. I shook my head, my stomach rolling at this morbid scene.

Had I… just watched myself die… in her arms?

"It's okay, son. You'll be okay." I got literal chills and tears in my eyes, as I turned around and saw my dad, still proudly wearing his King's Guard suit.

"D-Dad?" I sobbed, the sound mingling in the air with Myers' desperate sobs.

He stepped up to me, placing a hand on my shoulder - my wounded shoulder. "You were a hero, and you'll be remembered for it."

I shook my head vehemently, openly crying. "B-But it wasn't supposed to happen this way! I was supposed to marry her!"

My dad sighed, shaking his head. "I'm sorry, son."

"No. No! It wasn't supposed to happen this way!" I took a step back, then another, and another, and before I knew it, there was no ground beneath my feet and I was falling. My back crashed onto the ground with a thud, all the air being pushed forcefully out of my lungs, and suddenly I was being drowned in dirt and soil that someone was shoveling on me from above.

"Wake up, son." I distantly heard my dad say. "Wake up. It's going to be okay."

"Ah!" I sat up on the bed, my heart racing. My chest heaved with every breath I took, and I was drenched in sweat. I blinked a couple of times, trying to get my bearings. I was in my room, in my bed, at the palace.

It was a dream… only a dream.

"Drake?" Myers sat up next to me, placing a hand on my good shoulder.

I turned my head, meeting her worried eyes. "Myers…" I breathed, "Myers."

She scooted closer to me, wrapping me in a hug. "I'm here. Ssh. It's okay. I'm here."

I felt my throat tighten, a lump settling uncomfortably into it. I leaned into her embrace, wrapping my arms tightly around her, unable to stop a sob of relief, of grief, and terror all in one. Tears burned in my eyes, and a few managed to escape from my eyes. Myers only held me tighter, rubbing a hand up and down my back, while whispering sweet, comforting words in my ear. "It's okay… I'm here."

After a while, the fear and terror of the nightmare slowly faded, leaving me completely drained. I let myself be comforted by the feeling of her arms around me, by her touch, by her scent, and slowly, my heartbeat slowed down. My chest stopped heaving. The lump in my throat all but disappeared. We remained like that for a while, before Myers pulled back slowly. I sniffled and she cupped my cheeks, wiping off the few remaining tears with her thumbs. "Drake…" Her voice held a hint of worry, and dare I say it, maybe a bit of pity.

"I'm sorry." I told her quickly. "Sorry."

"Drake, there's no need to apologize…" Myers told me, pulling me once more into her arms with a sigh. "Do you want to talk about it?"

I honestly didn't want to talk about it, and if I were alone in my room right now, I'd simply lie in bed until exhaustion won out and I blacked out. The next day, no one would be none the wiser… but something about Myers compelled me to talk to her. I realized… I didn't have to shoulder this alone.

I wouldn't have to shoulder anything alone ever again.

Because she would always be right here beside me.

I looked back into her eyes as warmth surged through me. I reached out to tuck her hair behind her ears, before running the back of my knuckles softly over her cheekbones.

"I love you." I told her sincerely. Her eyes immediately softened. "You know that?"

"I do. And I love you too."

One corner of my mouth twitched. "I know." I took a deep breath and released it. "I dreamt… I was back there. In the ballroom. And I couldn't get to you." My voice broke then, and I shook my head to get that image out of it. Myers listened attentively, her brows furrowing in concern. "You got shot. But when I moved to pick your body up, it wasn't yours anymore. I picked up my own dead body, and then I watched you cry over it. And then my dad was there, and it was like he'd come to pick me up or something. He was still wearing his suit…" The suit we buried him in… the suit he always wore with pride, the suit with half a dozen medals on it. I shook my head. "And then I was falling into a grave, a-and someone was shoveling dirt on me, burying me alive and there was nothing I could do about it."

Myers swallowed, shaking her head just a bit to clear the image from her mind. She remained silent for a while, biting her lip, her eyebrows furrowed deep in thought. "Drake… thank you for telling me." She finally said, taking my hand. "I honestly don't know if there's anything I can say that will make you feel better… but I'm here for you."

I pulled her closer, draping my arm over her shoulders. "That's enough. More than enough."

We cuddled back down on the bed. Myers snuggled closer to me, until her chest was pressed against my side, and she draped her arm over my chest. "I have to know," she began, "have the nightmares been going on for long or is this your first one?"

"This is the first." I told her honestly. Though I was pretty certain it wouldn't be the last.

"Okay… how do you want to go about it? Do you… want to try to tough it out, work on it by yourself? Or would you rather go to a psychologist at Asterwood?"

I thought about it for a moment, really appreciating the fact that she asked how I wanted to deal with the issue. Now that all the… emotions that the nightmare evoked had subsided - all of the grief and terror had relatively passed - and I was able to think about it clearly, I think I might be able to handle this on my own. I was clearly suffering from a mild form of PTSD. The question that Myers was asking was if I thought I could get through this on my own or if I felt like I needed professional help. I knew she would support me in whatever I decided. And that felt like enough… "I think… I'm going to try to tough it out, work on it myself. If I find it's too much for me, I'll go see a psychologist."

"Okay. Just know I'll be here every step of the way."

"I know." I kissed her forehead. "Go back to sleep."

"And leave you to stare at the ceiling all night? I'll pass."

I chuckled, hugging her tighter. "Okay. What do you want to do?"

"Do you want to play two truths and a lie again?" She grinned impishly.

Oh, boy… I grinned. "Okay. I'll go first this time."

We played deep into the night, until this time, it was me who fell asleep in her arms.

A/N: Oh, and another thing... I was, or rather am, trying to fit the timeline into a single year, just as guess. Why? Because throughout the course of the books, several characters - Drake included - remark of how "it's been a crazy year". That's reason 1.

Reason 2 is because, according to Wikipedia (not the best source, I know, but hey I'll take it for relatively small things like this), "the season is known to encompass various prestigious events that take place during the spring and the summer" and it goes on to name the first event that takes place in March and the last, which takes place in September (YIKES!). So, if the Cordonian social season is inspired by the London season, I'm imagining for this story that the events of Book 1, take place March - September; Book Two and the Engagement Tour last for the whole of September and October (taking into account the few weeks that MC was in "social exile"), and Book Three also lasting all of November (your MC says in chapter 2 that you and your chosen LI will be married in "just a month from now") with Drake and Milla's wedding the first weekend of December. Then, they'll have a couple of weeks to relax, before spending the holidays in Lythikos (The Royal Holiday) and finalize with the Ceremony in which your friends become Guardians of the Realm and MC becomes Champion of the Realm, just after the new year.

After that is their honeymoon and all the events of The Royal Heir. Anyway, I wanted to let you know what I'm imagining as the timeline for this story - which I should've done much sooner, and for that, I apologize - just so you guys don't get confused about their wedding date.