I DO NOT OWN THESE CHARACTERS. THEY BELONG TO THE CW NETWORK. THIS IS A WORK OF FANFICTION BY OMEGA WHITE.
FORBIDDEN CHAPTER 6
Members of parliament filed into the Congress building, summoned for an emergency session. Moments after the meeting was called to order, King Allen stood to address the group.
"Gentleman, I apologize for this impromptu session, but it was unavoidable. Time is of the essence, so please forgive me if I must be expeditious in stating my business. First and foremost, I ask that we revisit my abdication of the throne. As previously discussed, my son is being groomed to be king. Unfortunately, pressing personal issues have hastened my abdication. My son will be crowned today as well as married if there are no objections. By law a king is given two years to find a suitable wife or he must submit to an arranged marriage. Prince Vincent has found a suitable bride and I have given him my approval. However, I must implore you to keep an open mind on his choice of a suitable bride, which brings me to my next order of business. I move to abolish the morganatic marriage law as it applies to present and future, kings and queens. Will anyone second my motion?"
Silence permeated the room as members of parliament silently debated on changing a law established centuries earlier.
An unlikely ally stood. "I second the motion," Lord Guyer stated.
King Allen along with the entire room hesitated, struggling to collect themselves. Lord Guyer was known to be a stickler for the rules, so no one expected him to second the motion to abolish one of the oldest laws.
"All in favor of abolishing the law," stated the Speaker.
Lord Pendleton stood up, his rigid stance eliminating any doubts about his feelings on the matter. "Do you understand what you're asking us to do, Your Majesty? The law is in place for a reason. Kings are usually born of royal blood and potential queen consorts are trained from infancy. We have made concessions for your son, and now you expect us to accept a commoner as our queen."
King Allen answered in a measured tone. "Lord Pendleton, I respect and greatly value your opinions, but I must warn you to tread lightly on the subject of my son. In reference to my motion, I am requesting the eradication of an antiquated law. Technology has advanced by leaps and bounds. Are we to live in the past or embrace the future? A good leader knows you must pick your battles. So I ask you, Lord Pendleton, is this a battle worth fighting?"
Before Lord Pendleton could answer, Lord Ballinger stood. "Aye."
An echo of ayes followed.
"The ayes have it," stated the Speaker.
Much to Lord Pendleton's dismay, the motion passed, abolishing the morganatic marriage law.
Immediately following the meeting a small crowd gathered in the throne room as the abdication ceremony began. Onlookers were shocked to learn after fifty years, at the stroke of midnight, a new king would reign. Facial expressions were exchanged, but silence masked their feelings. Minutes later, King Allen and Prince Vincent entered the room through a side door. Dressed regally in a coronation robe, the prince approached the nondescript table occupying the middle of the room. One single pen lay by the documents that would mark the first abdication in Elsidora history. The king and prince signed the paperwork, ushering out one era and ringing in another.
The king turned and addressed the crowd. "Almost fifty years ago, I stood here at my own proclamation, accepting the crown as well as the responsibility of the country. As a young king, I learned from my own mistakes, asked questions when I was in doubt, and ruled in a fair and just manner. Though the path was paved with blood, sweat, and tears, I acquired the tools and skills that made me a formidable opponent in war, yet a compassionate leader to the people. With every decision, every law, the interest of the people has always stayed at the forefront of my mind, including the sacrifice of bygone generations. I am confident I have established the framework for economic prosperity, ensuring sustainable income in the general population as well as a thriving job market for years to come. As the sun rises tomorrow, a new king will ascend to the throne, continuing a legacy that originated centuries ago. My people, my country, I leave with you forever in my heart. It has been an honor and privilege to be your king.
The archbishop removed the crown from King Allen's head, holding it up before placing it on Prince Vincent's head. "Will you accept this crown and all it entails? Will you solemnly swear to govern the people of Elsidora as set forth by the laws? Will you promise to abide by all customs and use your powers in a fair and just manner?"
"I do solemnly swear to do so."
Placing the crown on the Prince's head, the archbishop said, "Let your steps be so ordered as were your predecessors. Let the law guide you as righteousness lights your path. Remember the people are the heart of the land and you are the pulse. One does not exist without the other. On this day, I crown thee, King of Elsidora."
The former king now known as Prince Allen, stepped up to his son. "The placement of the royal scepter in your hand, continues the legacy of the monarchy. This simple act solidifies my acceptance of you as my king. Hail thee. Honor thee. Love thee. King Vincent, let your reign began."
Catherine took one last look at King Vincent, before she was whisked off to prepare for her wedding.
Queen Naswarya and a young girl approached her in the hallway. "Catherine, this is Piya, your lady-in-waiting. Your maid is in your bedchamber awaiting your arrival. I'll leave you to get dressed.
She noticed how nervous Catherine appeared, so she grabbed Catherine's hand. "For what it's worth, it's normal to be nervous. Think of Vincent and how much he loves you. When you walk down the aisle, look into his eyes, let all your fears go and enjoy this day. Your life will never be the same, but unity will always be your greatest asset. Now my dear, smile and go get dressed. I believe there's a king impatiently waiting to make you his queen.
Opening the door to her bedchamber, Catherine's mom greeted her. "Mom, what are you doing here?"
"Vincent called me. He wanted to surprise you," Vanessa stated, as she hugged her daughter.
"Thank you, Mom. I really need you. I am beyond nervous."
"Wild horses couldn't keep me away. It's not everyday my baby girl gets married, and to a king, no less. Now, we have very little time, so let's get a move on. My princess is getting married.
The double doors opened to Elsidora Cathedral, as the wedding song began play. Catherine stepped through the doors and slowly proceeded to walk down the aisle. Nervously, she looked up at Vincent, meeting his eyes. He held her gaze, giving her a reassuring smile. Attired in full regalia, looking quite dashing and dapper, Catherine found herself mesmerized by him. Meeting her halfway down the aisle, he took her hand and guided her the rest of the way. Guests looked on in astonishment at the public display of affection. It warmed their hearts to see the love in their king's eyes, although many were of the old school of thought and was hesitant to accept the union. The ceremony went off without a hitch and the happy couple exited the cathedral. A horse-drawn carriage waited to take the happy couple to their reception. Catherine snuggled up to Vincent, unable to believe they were not only married, but also the new king and queen of Elsidora. Vincent kissed the top of her head, his love unequivocally strong. Minutes later, the carriage entered the palace grounds after being cleared by the front gate. Catherine glanced at Vincent just as the operator pulled the reins to bring the horses' gallop to a halt. Vincent smiled and grabbed her hand, assisting her in disembarking the conveyance. Catherine's hand suddenly went limp as blood began to seep through the material of her gown.
Catherine...what's wrong?" Vincent yelled, realizing belatedly, she had been shot.
He gathered her in his arms. "Somebody get help now," he yelled, prompting security to run hurriedly inside the palace to fetch the doctor.
Tears trickled down Catherine's face and Vincent lost control. The floodgates opened and tears sprung forth, revealing his inner turmoil. He rested his head against hers. "Baby, please hang on. Help is on the way."
I HOPE YOU ENJOYED THIS CHAPTER. THANKS FOR YOUR WONDERFUL REVIEWS AND I HOPE YOU WILL KEEP THEM COMING. THANKS FOR READING.
BELOW, I HAVE INCLUDED AN EXCERPT FROM MY NEW STORY, "LONELY HEARTS." I HAVE SIX CHAPTERS SO FAR, SO LET ME KNOW WHAT YOU THINK.
"LONELY HEARTS"
PROLOGUE
The all too familiar white house came into view. Catherine turned right and the crunching of gravel under the tires welcomed her to a place that was still deeply embedded in her heart. After leaving the attorney's office, where she was informed Grammy had left her the house and a small sum of money, she had decided to take one last look before she sold the property.
Pulling up and getting out of the car, she looked at the one place that had been her refuge. Unless of course, her selfish, conceited mother came rushing into town. It wasn't that often and definitely not for very long. As quickly as she could finalize one divorce and hunt another willing and able sucker down, to continue the charade of being a trophy wife. Whatever disaster was left in her wake, didn't register on her radar. Her daughter, was nothing more than a nuisance, that she quickly dropped off to Grammys, before the ink on the discharge papers from the hospital was dry. Evelyn Chandler hadn't even deigned to show up for Grammy's funeral. No one was surprised, most of all Catherine. She had been disappointed by her mother most of her life, but now she was old enough to recognize her for who and what she was. A narcissist.
Entering the house, she was taken aback. The house was in utter disarray. Items were strewn about as if someone had been rummaging through them. Surprisingly, the house wasn't as rickety as she had assumed. Entering the last room, the past collided with the present. Her old room opened a portal she had closed ten years ago. She had written to Grammy while away at college and even visited her in the nursing home, but this was her first time since leaving town, being in the house again. Old pictures and posters reminded her of the life she left behind. She wondered had it been worth it. Had she sacrificed everything for the sake of her own selfishness or simply ran from her mother, who was the bane of her existence.
Catherine took one last look at the dilapidated remains of her childhood home. Nostalgia suffused her body, slithering through her veins, gripping her heart. She backed into the wall as memories accosted her. Her eyes lost focus as she drifted into a holding pattern. Vivid as day, she saw her and Grammy sitting on the porch, talking and laughing. As if looking through new eyes, the priceless treasure steeped in history, spoke to her clear as day.
Drawing herself up to her full height, she brushed specks of dirt off her jeans. With each brush, despair and regret diminished. Ten years ago, she had left this podunk town and vowed never to return again. Of course, that was after a heated argument with her mother. Obstinate as she was, she stayed away until Grammy entered the nursing home.
As she stepped onto the porch, the country air seeped into her lungs as the sounds of summer filled the air. In that moment the finality of her situation, impacted like a ton of bricks. Grammy was gone! But as one revelation faded, an idea manifested. This was her home and she was staying. Decrepit and dated, it was hers to start anew.
CHAPTER 1
Vincent stared at the clock. His mind willed his body to move, but it was lost in translation. He groaned and turned over. This day was going to be a tedious uphill battle. Stomach pangs added to his agitation. Swinging his legs to the side of the bed, he stood up to his full six-two height. He padded across the floor and down the hall to the kitchen. Surveying the pantry and refrigerator for some type of nourishment, he decided on toast and grits with turkey bacon. After quickly preparing breakfast, he sat down to eat. With his spoon of grits halfway to his mouth, he heard the sound of a buzz saw. Unfortunately for the buzz saw operator, it was the straw that broke the camel's back. Vincent jumped up, knocking the chair over. He was furious. Small towns were supposed to be quiet, peaceful and serene. Construction noise early in the morning contradicted all of those things. He walked, actually stumped next door, fuming mad. When he reached the yard, he spotted a worker in overalls and a cap by a saw horse.
"Excuse me, what do you think you're doing?" His voice filled with anger.
The worker turned around and Vincent's stomach lurched, his heart skipped several beats and his mouth begged for just a drop of water. He found himself tongue-tied after looking at the woman before him, mesmerized by her emerald green eyes. Seconds felt like minutes, before he finally collected himself.
"May I help you, sir?" She asked, as if she were a receptionist at a business.
Taking aback by her beauty and calm demeanor, his anger abated, but unfortunately his bad attitude didn't.
Vincent scowled at her. "No, you may not. Good day."
Catherine watched the strange man walk away, wondering to herself, what just happened? He was tall, dark, handsome, and he could teach a class on brooding. Whoever he was, apparently he wasn't pleased with her. It was if he had taken one look at her and found her wanting. The man was definitely an enigma and she found herself intrigued by him. The little voice in her head reminded her, that she was there to renovate the house and get her life together. The mysterious stranger, with the captivating blue eyes, didn't factor into the disaster, called her life, so leave him be. A man of his caliber surely wasn't interested in her. He was a living, breathing, Mr. Darcy in the flesh and lived next door. Not only was her composure hanging by a thread, her concentration was nonexistent. And just like that her morning was sabotaged by a man. Insufferable, but handsome man. She shook her head. It was going to be a long summer with Mr. Panty Dropper living next door.
Vincent knew he was being rude, but he was so disconcerted, he couldn't restrain himself. He had never experienced a reaction of that magnitude to a woman. A mere woman. A mortal woman. He shook his head as he ambled slowly toward his house. He almost chuckled to himself at how his ego deflated and anger diminished with one look. That woman was trouble and he'd best stay away from her. Who was he kidding? He would need more than a wing and a prayer for a woman like that to even feign interest in him. Women like that wasn't interested in some old battered war veteran. And why was she doing construction on that deathtrap. Entering his house, he headed straight to his bedroom. Plopping down on the bed, he stared at the ceiling, releasing a loud sigh. His day had taken a nosedive and he hadn't been up a good hour yet. Upcommance had delivered a bowl of cruel and unusual punishment for breakfast. There was no doubts about it, life as he knew it was definitely over.
CHAPTER 2
Saturday morning found Catherine buried deep in wallpaper. To save money she was doing most of the work herself. She'd hired an electrician and plumber, who worked alongside her through the week, but on the weekend she worked alone. The renovations were moving exponentially and after one week she was pleased with the progress. Luckily, her room was habitable, so she was able to save on the cost of a motel room.
Occasionally, she thought of her sexy neighbor. For some reason, she couldn't shake the feeling that she'd seen him somewhere before. He had made himself scarce, so it was safe to assume he wouldn't be bringing her a casserole to welcome her to the neighborhood. He could sulk and brood until he walked a hole in his floor, because this was her home and she was here to stay. He could take his issues and roll them up and smoke them until the filter burned his lips off, for all she cared.
"Are you okay ma'am? My momma said that place is dangerous. She said all kinds of critters live there. Are you homeless? Old Lee Ray is and he lives under the bridge on Sanford Avenue. I take him food sometimes when I can sneak it out of the house."
Startled out of her reverie, Catherine turned to see a tow head little boy on a bicycle.
She walked into the yard. "I assure you, I've never been better. And who do I have the pleasure of speaking with?"
He got off his bike, promptly letting it fall to ground as he held his hand out to Catherine. "My name is Luke. I was named after my grandfather. He's dead now, but he was the closest thing I had to a daddy. I visit him sometime at the cemetery around the corner. Do you have a daddy?"
Catherine chuckled to herself. Luke was certainly entertaining and a gentleman as well. She wondered if he was a good swimmer, because he sure was loquacious, barely taking a breath.
"I'm Catherine. I guess we are both special, because I don't have a daddy either," she said, with a hint of sadness.
"Are you going to live here?" Luke asked, pointing toward the house.
"Yes. I grew up here and I've decided to move back."
"Are you going to fix it up? My momma said it was falling apart."
Hiding a smile, she said. "Your mom is right, but when I finish it will be like new. I've actually started fixing it up already. You can even visit and see the new look when I finish."
"Can I help if my mom says it's okay? I'm a good helper and I'm out of school for the summer." Luke asked, excitedly, with a sparkle in his eyes.
"I suppose it's okay if your mom agrees. I will need to meet her first though. Do you live on this street?"
"Yes ma'am, my mom runs the bed and breakfast at the corner," he said pointing to the left.
"Do you know the guy who lives next door to me?" She asked, anxiously awaiting his answer.
"Not really. His name is Vincent Keller. He doesn't talk to anyone and he hates noise."
"Ah, that explains a lot. How about I walk down to your house and meet your mom?"
"That would be great. You'll like her and she makes the best apple pie in the whole parish," Luke said, already mounting his bike and preparing to leave.
"Well in that case, let's get a move on."
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