The next morning, Liam had reserved a private dining room at the hotel for our closest friends to enjoy breakfast together before leaving New York. Drake, Hana, Maxwell, and Olivia joined Liam and I for pancakes, eggs, and bacon. There was a palpable tension in the air as everyone made small talk for a while. I carefully ate with my right hand, keeping my left hand out of sight, probably taking a little too much pleasure in drawing out the suspense.

After we were all nearly done eating, I felt Liam take my hand under the table and give it a squeeze. I looked at him and he gave me a questioning look. Are you ready? I nodded, and he cleared his throat. "I just wanted to say thank you to everyone for joining me this morning. It means a lot to me that I have such good friends to support me after breaking off my engagement to Madeleine."

"Of course, Liam," Olivia said.

"But," he continued, "There is an additional reason I invited you all here today. I...well," he glanced at me. "Riley and I have something we wanted to tell you all."

"We're engaged!" I blurted out, unable to contain myself any long. I held up my left hand, showing them the ring Liam had given me.

Looking around the table, I quickly took in each person's reaction. Maxwell and Hana were smiling broadly, and Maxwell reached over to give me and Liam each a fist bump. Hana had her hand over her heart. Drake and Olivia's faces were more serious. Drake took a moment to meet my gaze, and when he did I could tell he had conflicting emotions. Even so, he said, "That's...congrats, you two."

Olivia smiled tightly and kept her eyes on Liam. "Yes, congratulations are in order," she said. "I'm...happy for you both."

"I need to know everything," Maxwell said, bouncing in his chair a little. "Where were you? What did he say? What did you say? Details, Riley, give me details!"

I laughed. "I'll tell you the whole story on our way back home," I promised him.

"Yes, there will be plenty of time on the flight," Liam agreed. "But for now, we should all be getting ready to leave."

He rose, taking my hand and helping me out of my chair. He placed a kiss on the back of my hand, beaming at me. Hana rushed over and gave me a hug. "I'm so happy for you," she said.

"Thank you, Hana. I'm so glad we were able to share the news with my best friends first."

"Oh," Maxwell interjected. "When we arrive at the palace in Cordonia, you'll make the announcement to the press, won't you?"

"That's right," Liam said. "I have to prepare a few comments. And Lady Riley should be prepared to answer questions as well. There will be a lot of explaining to do after last night."

"We should make sure you have the right outfit for a press conference, then," Maxwell told me. "Let's find Bertrand and Justin."

I sighed and waved goodbye to Liam as Maxwell dragged me away. Sometimes I felt like a paper doll, made for the Beaumont brothers to dress up.

We met Bertrand and Justin in the hotel's boutique. "Lady Riley," Justin said with a smile as we arrived. "Bertrand was telling me that you had an important tete-a-tete with Liam last night."

I held up my ring proudly. "I did, yes. But, why are you still here, Justin, now that my name is cleared?"

"Bertrand hired me to get you through the Homecoming Ball, so until then, you've got me in your corner. Which is good new, since every reporter in Cordonia is going to want a word with you now."

"Any tips for handling the press?"

"Step one is this," he said, holding up the earpiece that I had come to know well over the course of the tour. "As for step two, more than anything else, the press will want to know what kind of queen you're going to be. I know you're on cloud nine, but be sure to take their questions and concerns seriously."

"'Take everything seriously' should be the motto of this court," I told him.

He chuckled. "Maybe you and Liam can make that official. Now, we've just got to take care of step three: your look."

I let the three men debate for a while over the pros and cons of sticking me in Cordonian Royal Blue, and looked around the shop on my own. I kept sneaking glances at my engagement ring, reminding myself that this wasn't a dream, or a fairy tale. This was actually happening.

"Riley!" Bertrand's voice snapped me out of my reverie. He held out an outfit with an exasperated look. "Pay attention, please! Try this on."

I did so, and as I stepped out, I looked appreciatively in the mirror. I realized I was okay with being a paper doll, if they made me look this good. "This purple blazer looks kind of like the one Liam's wearing today," I said. "Oh! Okay, I see what you did there." I grinned and turned slowly for the men to see.

Under the blazer, I had on a black and white striped blouse. Fashionably ripped jeans and a gold tassel necklace completed the look. "Comfortable enough for travel, fashionable enough for a press conference. I think we have a winner," I said. They all nodded their approval, and I paid for the items and headed upstairs to pack.

After several hours on a plane, and with the help of time zones, we arrived in Cordonia early the next morning. The sun was just beginning to rise over the island as our plane began its descent. It felt odd, after being left to our own devices for most of the engagement tour, that Maxwell, Bertrand and I were shuffled into the royal motorcade once we landed. I realized that Bertrand was right all along, my engagement to Liam really did bring prestige to House Beaumont. I was happy I could help and hoped he might relax a little now that we were at the finish line.

Reporters swarmed the motorcade as soon as we reached the palace. Cameras flashed as I stepped out of the car, following Liam into the sunlight. I had on Justin's earpiece, letting him listen in. At first, the questions were all for Liam.

"How does it feel to be home, your Majesty?"

"Are the rumors true? Have you broken off your engagement to Countess Madeleine of Fydelia?"

Liam answered them quickly and tactfully. After he confirmed that the engagement was broken, I saw cameras turn towards me. "Now that the truth about you has come out, and King Liam is newly single, is there any chance of you becoming our next Queen-in-waiting?"

I looked at Liam, and he smiled, stepping up to me and taking my hand in his. "There is, in fact," he said.

I smiled broadly as another set of flashes erupted. "Yes," I said. "King Liam and I are betrothed." It was a weird, fanciful word to use instead of engaged, but it seemed suitably fairy tale-ish.

"Yes," Liam said proudly, "Lady Riley has done me the honor of accepting my proposal. In addition, she will soon be elevated to the rank of duchess, per the Cordonian tradition that a queen-to-be must hold her own lands."

"That is...quite the honor to bestow, your majesty," one of the reporters said with shock. "Lady Riley, I have to ask, as a relative newcomer to the court, do you think you're ready to shoulder the responsibilities of a duchess?"

Really? Justin said in my ear. Of course you're ready to handle the responsibility! Honestly. Questions these days. Alright, translation, this is a big deal for Cordonia. Show them that it's a big deal for you.

Liam and I had reviewed the role of a duchess while we were on the plane. It was almost like a civil servant, except with a lot more wealth and prestige. But, other than collecting taxes, I would mainly be responsible for making sure that the needs of the duchy were cared for - from road repairs to postal service - although, I would have plenty of advisors and employees to assist with the day-to-day stuff. Even knowing I would have help, though, I absolutely knew this was a big deal.

I nodded solemnly to the reporter that had asked the question. "I do not accept the title of duchess lightly. I may be new to Cordonia, but I have been through a lot in my time here. Whatever obstacles being a duchess has in store, I will face them just like I've faced everything else."

Perfect, Justin said, making me smile.

After a few more questions, Liam held up a hand. "Thank you all for welcoming us home," he said, "But I'm afraid we have a Homecoming Ball to prepare for." He ushered me inside, where a flurry of activity greeted us. Household staff buzzed back and forth with cleaning supplies, food, and bottles of alcohol. A dozen guards were stationed just throughout the part of the palace I could see. I turned to Liam with wide eyes.

"There's a lot going on," I said.

"Yes, there are always a lot of adjustments made when we return home, no matter how much notice we give the staff. Especially since there is the ball tomorrow."

"Of course," I said. I felt a flutter in my stomach, one that had been there for the past two days. It was the flutter I got every time I realized that this was my life now.

"But before that," Liam said, "I was hoping you would have lunch with the royal family in a little while."

"The...whole royal family? As in, King Father and Queen Mother?"

"Yes. Since I told them of our engagement, they are eager to speak to you." His eyes were lined with worry. "Things have been fraught between us ever since I learned the truth of what my father did to you. However, it would mean a great deal to me if you dined with us. Despite my father and Regina's faults, they both have years of ruling experience to share."

"Of course I'll join you," I said with a smile. "There's two things I can't turn down. Good advice, and free food."

After freshening up in my room, and taking a short nap, I was led by a servant to the dining room where the royal family was about to have lunch.

"Lady Riley," Regina said with a sincere smile. "Thank you for joining us."

Constantine adjusted his collar before meeting my gaze. "Yes," he said at last, "I believe we all have business to discuss."

I gave a little curtsy before joining them at the table. "Thank you for inviting me, your majesties." As soon as I was seated, uniformed servants flooded the room, bringing out trays piled high with meats and cheeses, bowls of soup, and baskets of bread. Someone set a crystal glass in front of me, and as I took a sip, I realized it was my favorite soda. I made a mental note to ask Liam about that later. But for now, I had to concentrate on Regina and Constantine. "This all looks lovely," I said with a smile.

"I know," Regina said, then glanced at Constantine and corrected herself, "We both know how important you are to Liam. I would like for us to get along." She looked expectantly at her husband, who bowed his head.

"I appreciate your willingness, to meet with us, Lady Riley."

"If we're going to be family," I said, "I would really like for us to get along, too."

"The-" Liam started, but he was interrupted by a coughing fit from Constantine. I watched wide-eyed with worry, but Constantine regained control and smiled wanly, gesturing for Liam to continue. "The first point we should discuss, Lady Riley, is your new duchy, Valtoria."

"Duchy Valtoria," I said. It was the first time I had heard the name. I liked the way it sounded in my mouth.

"As the duchess of Valtoria," Regina told me, "And as Cordonia's future queen, you'll be taking on a great deal of responsibility."

"Ordinarily, one would spend years preparing for such a role," Constantine added. "But you've demonstrated surprising resourcefulness and tact, Lady Riley. Particularly," he shifted his gaze, "In light of my actions towards you. You may yet carry out your duties with distinction."

"I'm curious, Lady Riley," Regina said. "What do you consider a duchess's primary duty to be?"

"To help the Cordonian people," I answered. "The people in my duchy will look up to me in many of the same ways that all of Cordonia looks up to Liam. I might be new to this, but I'll do everything I can to look after them."

"Hmm," Constantine murmured, sipping his water thoughtfully. "Well said."

"They will look to you for guidance in times of strife, and expect you to support them in times of peace. You must never forget that your decisions will impact many more lives than your own." As Regina spoke, she frowned, and I noticed the deep frown lines around her mouth and eyes. She wasn't more than sixty, but her time as Queen had certainly worn on her.

"Unfortunately, you are gaining more than mere responsibility," Constantine continued.

"What do you mean?" I asked.

"We've spoken of Cordonia's enemies before. Your new position is likely to attract their attention, one way or another. Those without power are always interested in those who hold it. And power recently gained often appears the easiest to seize."

I looked at Liam. "Should I be worried?"

"I've already taken steps to ensure your continued safety," He assured me, moving to hold my hand under the table. "Several royal guards will look out for you for the time being, but you'll have a personal security detail as soon as I can arrange it. Though, of course I hope you'll never have need of such measures."

I smiled up at Liam. "I'm glad you're looking out for me."

He beamed right back. "Of course. I want you to feel safe in Cordonia. I want it to feel like home."

"It already does." I glanced at Constantine and Regina. "In spite of everything, Cordonia feels more like home than any place I've lived. I think I was waiting my whole life to come here, and I just didn't know it." I paused, then added, "Although, some personal security definitely won't hurt."

After that, we fell mostly silent as we ate our lunch, with only a few comments about the food to break the tension. As soon as our plates were cleared, Liam turned his attention to his father and Regina. "Thank you both for lunch," he said, "I have other matters to attend to, however, and I'm sure Lady Riley-"

"Wait, please," Constantine said, cutting off his son's speech. "There is one last thing I wanted to say." He stared me right in the eyes as he spoke, and his voice was hoarse and soft. Demure, even. "Lady Riley," he said, "I don't expect that you will forgive my actions, regardless of the reasons behind them. I only hope your opinion of me won't color your feelings towards the Cordonian people. Their ruler's faults are not their own."

I wrinkled my eyebrows as I shook my head. "Of course not," I told him. "I'll always look out for the Cordonian people. Please, don't worry about that."

"Thank you, Lady Riley. That is reassuring to hear."

"It shouldn't come as a surprise, Father," Liam said harshly. "Riley is more than just the woman I love. She's intelligent, and capable, and far more generous than you give her credit for. Continue to underestimate her if you must, but I have no doubt that she will be a remarkable queen."

"I hope time proves you right, Liam," Constantine said sadly.

With the former king and queen still sitting at the table, Liam stood and led me out of the room. As soon as the door closed, I grabbed Liam by the lapels and pulled him in for a kiss.

"Riley! Liam!" We were interrupted by Maxwell's voice from down the hall. We pulled apart slowly, smiling at each other, then turned to face our friend.

Drake and Hana were behind Maxwell, and Drake said, "Told you we'd find them here."

"What's going on?" I asked.

"Oh, not much," Maxwell said casually. "We just came to invite you to the best beer garden in Cordonia!"

"Riley's in the clear, we're home in Cordonia," Drake said, hands in his pockets. "That calls for drinks if you ask me."

"Hana's been reading this place's menu for the last hour."

Hana looked up from her phone and glared at Maxwell. "Don't judge!" She scolded. "They have a lot of options!"

Liam frowned. "I have at least a dozen meetings this afternoon. But you all should go have fun."

I shook my head. "We can wait until evening, can't we guys? I'm still so jet-lagged, I could probably nap for the next four hours."

Everyone agreed, so we split up and met later to head to the beer garden. When we arrived, it was dark out, but the lights and music made the place feel festive and alive. It was crowded, too, but we managed to find a large enough table in one corner beneath the wooden rafters. "This place is happening," Hana said as we sat.

I smiled and nodded. "I'll go get drinks. What's everyone having?"

"Ooh," Hana said excitedly. "Can I try their raspberry iambic?"

I nodded and looked at Maxwell next. "I'm feeling...something unusual and jubilant. A chocolate stout, perhaps?"

I nodded and looked at Drake, saying, "Whiskey on the rocks?"

"Hey," he said, "Am I that predictable? I'll stick with beer this evening. Whatever's on tap."

"Alright," I said, turning to Liam. "And for you, fiance?"

Liam grinned. "Surprise me."

I winked. "I always do." I flounced towards the bar, and Drake jumped up to join me.

"This round's on me," Drake said. I looked at him with an eyebrow raised. "What?" He said. "I can't be in a giving mood?"

"Only if you explain the reason."

"Fine...I'm in a good mood, because I got a message from Savannah today. She's moving back to Cordonia."

I gasped and pulled Drake in for a hug. "That's fantastic, Drake! You must be thrilled!"

"I am," he agreed, shrugging me away and rubbing his neck. "I can't wait to spend time with her again, and get to really know Bartie."

We were at the front of the line to the bar now, so I turned to the bartender with a smile. "Hi," I said, "Can I get one raspberry iambic, a chocolate stout, a pint of whatever's on tap, and...two bottles of the best local cider you've got."

"Nice memory," Drake quipped.

I turned around and leaned against the bar while I waited for the drinks. "It wasn't that much to remember. Plus, I was a waitress, remember?" I looked around the beer garden as we waited, and noticed Bertrand sitting alone in a far corner, nursing a glass of beer. "I'll be right back," I told Drake, and walked over to the forlorn-looking Duke Beaumont.

"Hey, Bertrand," I said, sliding into a seat across from him. "I thought you'd be in a better mood after the announcement today."

"Oh, Lady Riley," he said, barely looking up at me. I realized he was staring at his cell phone, which featured a picture of Savannah and Bartie.

"Did you hear that Savannah is coming back?"

He looked up at me then, his eyes wide. "She is? That's..." he paused, and frowned, taking a long drink of his beer. "I'll be sure to give her plenty of space. Thank you for informing me."

"I...take it things didn't go well when you saw her last?"

"That would be an understatement."

"Do you want to talk about it?"

He shook his head. "You should go back to Liam and your friends. Enjoy your night."

"I can't enjoy my night when I know you're over here feeling terrible," I told him with a frown. "At least tell me what happened with Savannah."

He sighed heavily. "I am not accustomed to giving voice to my emotions."

"I am aware of this fact."

"When I went to visit Savannah, I...I said all the wrong things, and I made her feel like she was a burden. She made it clear to me that she does not wish to speak to me again, unless absolutely necessary."

I reached out my hand and placed it on Bertrand's. He looked at me in shock, but didn't move away. In a soft voice, I told him, "You can come back from this," I told him. He only nodded in response. After a moment of silence, I stood and left him alone with his thoughts.

Our drinks had already arrived, and Drake had taken them back to the table, so I rejoined my friends there. "How's the cider?" I asked Liam as I sat next to him.

He took a sip and nodded appreciatively. "Not what I was expecting, but somehow, exactly what I needed."

"Are you talking about me or the drink?" I said with a playful nudge of his shoulder.

"Both," he grinned.

"Nevermind the rest of us," Olivia said, and I looked away from Liam to notice for the first time that she had joined our table.

"Oh!" I yipped. "Sorry! I didn't see you there. How are you Olivia? I didn't know you were joining us, or I would have brought you a drink."

She waved her hand dismissively. "It's fine, I'm perfectly capable of ordering my own drinks." She made her way to the bar and quickly returned with a glass of wine. Once she was settled, I held up my bottle for a toast.

"To good friends and good booze," I said.

"Here, here," Drake added. Everyone else joined in, with Olivia reluctantly adding her glass to the group with a large eye roll.

As we all started sipping our drinks, we chatted for a while about nothing and everything. It was almost surreal, in that it was so normal. No looming threats or secrets to hide. No politicians or dignitaries to impress. Just a group of friends hanging out, enjoying the cool air of a late fall night. After a couple of rounds, I sighed happily, sinking back into my chair. The beer garden had begun to clear out, so I knew it must be late. Our table grew quiet.

"This was really nice," I said.

"You are surprisingly adequate company," Olivia said, her eyes gleaming. I stuck my tongue out at her and laughed.

"It's going to be another long day tomorrow," Liam said. "It has been nice taking a break and relaxing with all of you. But..." he pulled out a pocket watch and looked at it before continuing. "I think we should probably head back."

I nodded and yawned. "I think that's probably a good idea. We can continue this party tomorrow at the ball."