Disclaimer: Don't own these characters, names, places etc etc. But do own the story!

Author's Note: Ahhhhhh SO very sorry! I'm such a terrible person taking so long to do this, and i'm afraid it's not gonig to get much better! You've probably all forgotten the story by now but PLEASE stick with me, i am writing this - just getting distracted by other projects at the same time. It will get finished and until it does please just enjoy :-)

Fallen - Part 30

Pierre may have spent a great deal of time away from his home country over the past ten years but some things never changed, the blueness of the Genovian sky, pears in every fruit bowl in almost every room in the palace, the smell of his father's cologne when you entered his private suite, Christmas skiing in the mountains… but one thing, one thing had definitely changed whilst he'd been away.

He saw it in every staff member he encountered, in their smiles and warm greetings, it was almost tangible in the air, and he'd felt it the moment he stepped back into the palace.

The reason for this change however still remained something of a mystery. Of course over the course of the year things had improved beyond comparison in all of their lives with the birth of Amelia, she had affected his father perhaps the most, he'd never seen the old guy looking so relaxed and content than when he was holding that baby.

Yet that wasn't it.

He'd seen his father after the birth, spent a month with the family celebrating. Now, coming home for Christmas, he'd noticed a further development. The smile upon King Joseph's face appeared to be permanent. He was more easy-going than ever and far more tolerant and willing to just sit and play Chess with his sons, he never used to have time even for a brief chat. The only thing Pierre could put it down to was that he was aging and had decided to take things a little easier… either that or…

Well he hadn't entertained that idea for very long, the idea of his father even having time to find himself a companion was beyond belief. Add to that the fact that he had been a widow for almost twenty years now there had never been even a inkling that he'd even been interested in another woman let alone romantically pursued any.

And yet he couldn't shake the idea.

Then of course they had all been shocked when he'd announced their usual New Year celebration would be going ahead with one major difference that year, he wouldn't be there. Forty years of private New Year parties at the palace had revolved around the King himself leading the celebrations.

This year it was left to the two princes to host the occasion.

Lifting the champagne flute to his lips Pierre took a quick sip and smiled at his brother dancing with Helen. With a wedding planned for the New Year things looked set for the future. He was happy for his brother, happy for the both of them, now Helen had lived this life for the past year, all be it quietly and somewhat secretively, she had taken well to it and it appeared that she was ready to take her place formally beside Philippe.

Pierre was glad for it, glad that Philippe was settled with the woman he loved, and glad for his father, for now he had what he'd always hoped for. A future for the monarchy. Pierre wondered if perhaps his father might consider stepping down early now, it was a thought that had occurred more and more to him over the past ten years. Joseph did seem awfully weary at times, maybe it would be good for him to 'retire', maybe it would be good for the monarchy as a whole, a shaking up of it if you like. Seeing it as a job, seeing that chance to retire as something compensating after god knows how many years of dedication.

Pierre noted the time, twenty minutes to go, Philippe would begin the speeches soon, he himself had a few words to say, mostly passing on his father's well wishes. He wondered where his father was now, just what matter of vital importance had drawn him away from the celebrations. He'd be back by January 3rd but still it was unlike his father to simply disappear… though Helen had mentioned a similar occurrence in the summer.

Perhaps there was more to this, perhaps changes were afoot that he didn't fully understand. He'd quiz his brother again later, was there a woman? Or was this simply a matter of King Joseph growing tired of all eyes being focused on him?


"Ten minutes to go." Clarisse murmured sleepily.

Her eyes felt awfully heavy, heavy with sleep, heavy with the heat of gazing at the fire.

The log cabin was perfectly… perfectly perfect, she decided with a smile. And it was just like Joseph to find somewhere like this for them to spend their few days alone over the festive season. A place hidden away in some winter wonderland where they could welcome in the New Year.

She shuffled slightly and felt his arm tighten over her; she stroked it with her fingertips, feeling the soft hairs on his arm brush back and forth at her touch. His breath was warm on her shoulder and occasionally his lips would gently caress her skin there.

Yes, this entire thing was perfectly perfect! She was sure he must have arranged it all, right down to the hot chocolate and marshmallows! From the moment she'd stepped off the plane she'd been in some kind of dream world. Escorted to a private car, driven to another location, her luggage arranged and taken care of, found Joseph waiting for her, he'd kissed her cheek, walked her away from the road and onto the deep snow and lifted her up into some huge sleigh.

She found it difficult to believe that even he could manage a sleigh! But they'd been driven, is that the right word, driven to their secluded cabin, a log fire already burning, her luggage already in their room. Since then they'd barely come up for air.

She was even more pleased by the fact that there had been neither sight nor sound of any other living being since they'd arrived. She doubted very much that the King would be left totally alone in the middle of some winter forest but she hadn't seen any security so she chose to believe nobody was watching. All the same she was careful to shut all the blinds before even attempting to walk around with no clothes on.

Now here they lay, on what felt like a million feathers beneath her, pillows stacked everywhere, candles burning, the fire, the champagne, the thick blankets over their naked bodies, counting down on her watch.

"You do realise," he whispered, "that here it's already new year."

"Yes, but I'm on English time."

"Then so am I." He chuckled and kissed her shoulder again.

"Didn't they mind," she twisted her head to glance back at him, "You disappearing over New Year?"

He shrugged. "Nobody questioned, I didn't offer any answers, just that I wanted some time alone." He squeezed her stomach. "I thought you were enjoying my company."

"Oh immensely." She lifted her head up and kissed him. "You've been rather energetic I've noticed… I never realised you were such a good skier."

"Very funny!" He buried his face in her hair. "I never realised you weren't very good."

"I've told you I've only ever been twice, and both times were a disaster, I spent most of my time in the bar or spa."

Laughing he leant over her and gazed down at her face.

"Does that make me unsuitable for winter skiing breaks?" She pouted, teasing.

"Oh on the contrary, you suit it perfectly, that red nose, pink cheeks…"

"Sore backside!"

He laughed again, leaning over her and adorning her chest and face with kisses.

"Joseph, stop, come on we'll miss the big countdown." She lifted her arm behind him and narrowed her eyes to take in the time. "Three minutes."

"Well I can manage it in that time." He teased settling between her legs.

"No you bloody can not, I expect nothing short of flawlessness right until we have to leave here…"

She was cut off by him kissing her, soft gentle warm kisses as he swept his lips across hers. He certainly knew how to kiss.

Sighing she lifted her arms up around his back, opening her eyes as his mouth moved to her neck. Two dark eyes were staring back at her.

"Joseph, stop, stop… I can't do it with her watching."

"Who?"

He lifted his head up.

"Holly, I think she wants something to eat, or drink." She pushed Joseph to one side as she sat up.

The chocolate Labrador happily moved to Clarisse's face and dipped her head down as Clarisse tickled her neck.

"Are you hungry my baby? Are you? Yes… you're so gorgeous you are…"

Joseph groaned as the puppy settled down on their makeshift bed.

"I don't think the puppy is hungry at all darling, I think what she wants is my place in this bed."

"Ohh don't be silly, she loves us both now, don't you Holly." She rubbed the dog's neck and smiled as it yawned and laid his head down on the blankets. "Besides you were the one who bought her for me."

"I know, a Christmas gift I hoped you'd approve of, I remember you saying that dogs made wonderful companions. Anyway," he slipped his arm around her waist again, "I hate to think of you alone in that house."

"You shouldn't worry, I'm sure it's safe." She turned over again and snuggled against him. "There you see she's asleep again now. And we have, ohh about 45 seconds to go."

"So, can I say it now?"

"Say what?"

"Happy New Year Clarisse my love."

She smiled broadly and met him halfway for a kiss.

"Happy New Year Joseph."


Pierre had called after Richard three times already and now was chasing after him down the palace corridors, he was sure he must have been heard, either his father's assistant was ignoring him or going deaf.

Nevertheless like his father Pierre kept in good shape and rounded the corner in a brief sprint, finally laying his hand on Richard's shoulder to stop him.

Spinning around Richard smiled apologetically. "Sir, I'm awfully sorry did you want me?"

Pierre breathed deeply as he spoke, his words interrupted by the odd tight breath. "Been after you all morning Richard, you seem rather elusive."

"Terribly sorry Sir, been run off my feet this morning, what with New Year and his majesty's return today."

"Well that's really what I wanted to talk to you about." He fell into step beside Richard as they headed to his office. "My father, pretty secretive, whatever's been going on with him, I noticed you didn't go."

"A personal trip I believe sir, your father insisted on only a few security members accompanying him. Luckily there were no problems whatsoever."

"And just where did they accompany to him too? If you don't mind my asking."

Richard paused by his desk, watching as Pierre slid the door shut. This was a royal prince after all, what right did he have to lie to him?

"Erm, well sir, that's something you should talk to your father about."

"Oh I intend to." He dropped down onto the leather couch smiling enigmatically at Richard. "The thing is I know my father pretty damned well and I know he doesn't disappear for four days without a good reason. And you say this isn't business. It's personal. Well he's not with his family because we are all here, lamenting his absence, which leaves only one conclusion for me to draw."

Richard cocked a curious eyebrow. "Which is?"

Pierre laughed throatily, throwing his head back. "Good lord man you look terrified, is the old man going to fire you if you reveal all the secrets." Sitting up again he slapped his legs. "Look I'm not asking for you to tell me anything, I will ask my father but I know that he won't answer if he's not ready. So… I'm biding my time, and doing a little digging along the way."

"How so sir?" Richard sank down into his chair, King Joseph had left Richard in no doubt that nobody, NOBODY, was to find out about Clarisse. Her wishes apparently not his. He didn't fully understand the reasons behind it, after all dating his majesty opened up an entire new world of wealth and upper class living to her, why hide away from that?

"I know the movers and shakers in this palace, even though I don't live her anymore. I know just who to ask for palace gossip. And I heard, on the grapevine, that my dear father had a little dalliance last year with a member of the household staff. Didn't get that all at once mind you, a little inkling of gossip from several sources that I've pieced together. Can't get her name though, although my brother tells me that our housekeeper had been making great strides in the system until she abruptly departed."

"Er Sir I think it best if you…"

"Discuss this with my father. Yes I know. And I will. In time."

Pierre got to his feet again digging his hands into his pockets. "I assume father has ordered family dinner for this evening."

"I believe so yes sir."

"Excellent, chance to see just how big the smile is on his face, measure how well the trip went by how big his smile is on return." Pierre grinned heading for the door. "Not to mention how weary he looks."

Winking at a stunned Richard he opened the door to leave.

"Oh by the way Richard, had noticed you have eyes for the delightful Charlotte, make a move hey man, before somebody else does."

Richard stared at the closed door in astonishment… eyes at Charlotte indeed. He'd done no such thing. Though she was a charming lady indeed. A very pretty lady. Not Clarisse mind but not bad, certainly not bad.

Damn royals, all of them seemed content on playing Cupid this year.


Joseph sank down into his bed and closed his eyes momentarily. He was exhausted, four rushed days of travelling back and forth; he hated travelling yet it was a necessity of the 'job'. Four days of absolute bliss with Clarisse… she had worn him out, he didn't mind admitting it, and by god he'd loved every second. He never realised sex could be that good, at his age as well!

Sighing heavily he audibly groaned and pulled the bed sheets up over his body, resting back on the plumped pillows. His customary drink was on the bedside table waiting, along with his book all laid out and prepared. He was used to this, used to being mollycoddled, having everything done for him, so much so that sometimes he didn't even have to think at all anymore. It was all there, instant. He was used to it. But he missed the freedom that came when he was away from it. He missed the freedom of not knowing what the day would bring, or what activity would occupy his time.

He missed being with her. There were times, now after everything that had occurred over the summer, when he wondered just how long he could keep this up. Maintain the pretence of being a delightfully happy monarchy who was in the latter stages of his life and enjoying his reign. When actually his heart wasn't in it anymore, actually his heart and mind were elsewhere. It wasn't that he loved his country less; it wasn't that he wanted to shirk his duty, not at all; it was just that he didn't feel able to throw himself into it with complete gusto as he used to be able to.

Still there was no point going over this again now. He would only end up going around in circles with it, over and over again questioning what he wanted to change and all the reasons why it wouldn't. Things wouldn't change. Ever. And at least they had something. As small as it might be.

Lifting his hand he reached for his mobile phone, a private line only a few had the number. He dialled quickly from memory and closed his eyes resting back on the pillows again waiting for the answer.

"Hello." She said sleepily.

"Hello yourself. No greeting of love and adoration?"

She laughed. "Oh I'm awfully sorry is that what I'm supposed to do, I shall practice for next time, think of something smart to say to greet you."

This time he laughed. "Was the flight okay?"

"Perfectly thank you, and yours."

"Yes, fine, dull but fine."

"When do I get my dog back sir? I miss her already."

"I know the feeling." He said gently. "Shouldn't take long, all the legal stuff you know. I'm rushing it through as best as I can."

"You mean Richard is."

"Yes he is, but I'd rather you show me your gratitude than him."

"Oh I will, I will." She was quiet for a moment and he heard the dripping of water.

"Clarisse honey, where are you?"

"In the bath tub, my back ached from sleeping on the damned floor. And besides, I couldn't sleep yet, I needed something to relax my mind."

"I know me too, that's why I called… it's ridiculous. How much I miss you already."

"I know. You'll feel better tomorrow, when you're back into the swing of work."

"Hmm…"

"What do you mean hmm? Grumbling old man!"

"I mean hmm…" he chuckled. "And you weren't calling me old yesterday. If memory serves you were calling me completely opposite things yesterday."

"Alright, alright, no need to bring up what I did, or didn't, scream in the heat of the moment. Tell me why we're grumbling?"

"Because, because I'm not all that sure I can keep doing this." He sighed again, heavily this time. "Honestly darling my mind isn't on work, and my heart just isn't in it."

She was quiet again, apparently mulling his words over.

He rubbed the phone in his hand, the smooth outer plastic shell imagining her lying in the bath doing the same.

"Are you still with me?"

"Yes, yes I'm here. Joseph you mustn't feel like that, you shouldn't say things like that. It's not my intention to take your mind away from your country."

"I know that, it's me not you, me obsessed with you to the point where I can't concentrate."

"That's not helping."

"You asked."

"Yes I did but, but… please Joseph." She pleaded gently. "Please don't sink into that line of thought, I'm still here and we're doing well at this whole long distance thing, don't ruin it by pondering how it could be if I was there all the time or you here. Because honestly you might tire of me."

"I doubt that very much."

"Really, how do you know, I could drive you crazy with my incessant need to clean."

He laughed loudly. "Oh darling that's why I call you up, for wonderful images like that to be implanted in my brain."

"Then go to sleep with that thought then, no more grumbling old man. We've just spent the most divine few days together."

I know, I'll think on that as I go to sleep."

"Do."

They were silent again; he listened with his eyes closed to the sound of her breathing, the odd splash of water as she moved, imagining her body pink and warm in the water. Remembering being in that very bathtub with her not so many months ago.

"Joseph, as much as I love you my fingers are growing even more wrinkly than they usually are. I need to get out."

"And you can't do it one handed?"

"Not quite yet! I'll practice."

"Do," he teased. "I guess I should sleep too, up early tomorrow, nose to the grind."

"Don't work too hard though, ease yourself back in."

"I wish I were easing my way into…"

"Joseph!" She snapped but he heard her laughter on the line. "Go to bed."

"I am in bed."

"Then go to sleep. It's late."

"It is and I will. Sleep well my love."

"And you, call me tomorrow yes?"

"Of course. Goodnight."

"Goodnight."

She was the first to put the phone down, he held onto his, unwilling to end the contact, as fleeting and fake as it might be. Finally he reached out and laid the phone on the side table, switching the lamp off as he did so.

He settled back in the huge bed, glancing to the window, the moonlight was bright and lit up his room, so much so that he could look down and make out his single body shape beneath the sheets. All that space next to him vacant and unused.

He would sleep alone tonight, with only the memory of holding her body in his arms to get him through.


Please be kind and leave me a review! Thanks xx Rhonda