Author's Note: Thank you for being so patient with LLtBK! Writing this really does help my creativity be honed and at the same time it serves as an entertainment for all you, readers. Thank you for the likes, favorites, and follows. But if you have time, please do leave a comment or suggestion as well to let me know the things you would like me to improve in this story so this would be more of a collaboration between me and all of you. Without further ado, here is the 22nd chapter. Enjoy! (I still do NOT own Game of Thrones)

Long Live the Boy King

Chapter 22: Epiphany

Cersei's Point of View

I'm not much for conversing with other people as I've grown up with only my brother and myself to talk to. The maids that raised us weren't very interesting as well and when they do speak, they fill our heads with superstitions and boring fairytales that I never believed even at such a young age. My ears prefer to hear facts more than anything and since I had the sense of reason, I promised myself not to succumb into idiocy that is fantasies on a story book. Wars were the popular topic back in my days and no matter how horrifying they are, how gruesome they sound, that is reality. And reality is what I consume.

But last night's dinner with the Doreens made me loathe conversations a little less. Not because of the couple, obviously. Ferardo looked smug as always and tried hard to sound heroic as he shared with us yet another great adventure of his where he plunges a sword into his enemy's heart. My father bought it again like he always does. In his eyes, he was perfect but I can't see what's so special about him. Jaime was just as great as he is, maybe even greater but Father was too blind to see that. His eyes are greying, it seems. Edvige was deceiving. She smiled to me all throughout the night when just a few days ago she was practically shouting at me, defending her family. Her compliments for King's Landing and my son sounded fake to me. The Doreen lady might be beautiful but I know she has dark, dark secrets of her own. Come to think of it, Father once said to me yesterday that we share a few attributes. I say otherwise. Unlike Edvige, I don't have to put up a mask to fool people. I can simply say that I am the King's mother.

The only Doreen that I could stomach was, of course, Corabella. Her younger twin brothers were loud and obnoxious, but she was silent during our little feast and only spoke when spoken to. She sat with grace and elegance among all things and her beauty was radiating, illuminating the evening. Tommen noticed it too based from my observations. My son watched her eat and speak and glanced at her direction when he thought no one was looking. But I did and I didn't find it strange. I tolerated it even if the Tyrell whore exists. If only Corabella were introduced to him sooner I wouldn't doubt his eagerness to marry her immediately. Unfortunately, ten Lords are already waiting for the young Lady and Tommen is to marry Margaery. Regardless, I find Corabella fascinating. She is nothing compared to the rest of her family especially when her blue eyes contrast their dark ones. She reminds me of myself when I was younger; graceful, respectful, but strong and doesn't let anyone make her feel inferior.

I heard rumors about her connection with Lorcan Rosby. Young Lorcan was once friends with Joffrey but unlike my son, he didn't let childhood get the best of him. I've heard of his triumphs, of the women that would give anything to be his, of the riches his family acquires. If Tommen cannot have Corabella for his wife, I'd much rather Lorcan marry her. With the north of the Crownlands in her hands, she will be the perfect ally for the royal family especially with the quality of weaponry the Doreens possess. It was sad to think, though, to know that the young Rosby isn't one of the ten Lords. He is fit to be a husband to Corabella and he surely is stronger than the mentioned Lords. Fate only forbid the arrogant airhead Massey to win the tourney.

The dinner with the Doreens ended with satisfaction. Tommen announced for him and Corabella to refrain from training and instead for him to tour her around the castle grounds. The latter was reluctant even with Edvige and Ferardo's urges. She kept declining the King's offer until I spoke. Her eyes were fixed on mine when I said, "Do take some rest from swords and sweats, my Lady. King's Landing has a lot to offer and you have yet to see its beauty." She nodded slowly when I finished as if I control her decisions. She smiled at the King and accepted his offer at last. Interesting. The Lady either sees me as someone worth her respect or a haunting figure that will scare her to do spontaneous decisions.

"You are interested in her," I said on a low tone to Tommen as I sat down the high stool. He was getting ready for today and took precautions in picking the right clothes to impress Lady Corabella, I assume.

He continued fixing his hair, sweeping his blonde curls to the side before pushing them slightly upward. "I beg your pardon, Mother?" he said with a boyish smile on his face.

I took a ginger sip of my wine and swallowed the crisp liquid between giving him a smirk though I don't think he noticed. "Lady Corabella," I started. "You are interested in Lady Corabella."

"Of course, I am. Have you seen her handle a sword? Such grace and power channels from her to her sword," he replied. Pleased with his appearance, he gave his own reflection a smile before turning around and giving me another. I raised an eyebrow at him signaling another meaning to my statement. It is fairly obvious, why deny it? His smile dropped and was replaced with a frown followed by the roll of his eyes. "She is my guest and is an acquaintance, Mother. Nothing more." It was a surprise to me when his next move was to walk towards his table and pour himself a glass of wine to join me. He drank it carefully, gaining a sour expression in his face. "You and Grandfather exaggerate the situation too much." Even Father knows it, I see. "Besides," he paused for a bit and looked at the red liquid swirl around the transparent object in his hand. "I am to marry Lady Margaery in a matter of days while she picks a husband a couple of days from now."

"You don't drink wine at this hour," I remarked. He just raised his eyebrows and finished it before setting the glass down. "I don't blame you," I said as I rose up my seat to join him towards his balcony. Ser Pounce jumped up Tommen's welcoming arms as we walked. "She is mesmerizing and definitely is anyone's ideal woman." He grunted. I couldn't tell if he agrees or not. "The danger that radiates toward that girl makes the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. She is a… surprise, truly."

"I know," he said softly with half-closed lids and a tired expression. "But like I said, she is merely my guest, my beautiful acquaintance. Nothing more. Lady Margaery is still for me and I for her." His last words were spoken before he turned around to leave me in his chambers.

I looked ahead at the sea and let the sun touch my skin with its warmth. Tommen was loyal to that Tyrell and I don't think anything would change his mindset. Not me, not his subjects, not even the beautiful Lady Corabella. He avoids sin, he wants to be the ideal King – he wants a normal life. But he is still young and his heart still has the upper hand. It wouldn't be a shock for me to discover his wrongdoings because like me, love would be our incurable disease.

Corabella's Point of View

I looked all morning for it but I still couldn't find my necklace with a carnation pendant on it. I've searched every drawer, every corner, every nook, and every box I own but I still couldn't see it. "Mother, I swear I put it down here the morning the Royal wedding was cancelled," I said anxiously. Mother has been helping me, as well but the piece of jewelry was still nowhere to be found.

"Do you really have to wear it today, Corabella?" Mother asked as she got down to her knees and bent over to look under the bed. "I thought it was for special occasions only?" It is and though I still resent Tommen even just a little bit, his tour of the castle grounds is special to me because I will see new things and learn new knowledge about this beautifully drastic place. I looked at the mirror once more and fixed my hair which was starting to go wild from my search. "Do you want to borrow a necklace from me?" Mother suggested but I refused to. Nothing would look as good as the carnation necklace. Its simplicity contrasts that of Mother's jewelry. I'd rather wear it now or wear nothing.

"Nevermind, then. I'll just have to make do without it. Besides, it's too sentimental anyway. I might lose it during the tour." I fixed the tight sleeves of my dress and pulled down the wrinkles forming on them. With Mother's help, my hair was tamed once more into neat curls that fall down my back.

"Are you sure you're fine wearing this dress today? I mean, you wear it back in Bedoco but the Westerosis seem a little conservative." I chuckled at her in a sarcastic way. I wanted to point out the low neckline that Cersei fashions every single day but I best kept my mouth shut. After all, it's not right to judge people by the way they dress. As an alternative to my necklace, I slipped on the bracelet that Cersei gave me. It was neither simple nor overly decorated which suit the way I'm dressing today. Boots and dresses seem odd but I think I can pull it off. Mother let go of me for a moment after she finished smoothing out the laces on my back and handed me my small dagger already hanging on a belt. I fastened it around my waist with her help. "I reckon the boys took it again to mess with you."

"I doubt it," I said, neutrally. "The last time they did, I put holes on their underpants." Mother scolded me with wide eyes but I only laughed. I remembered the one time they stole my necklace when they were playing heroes. Cosimo being the damsel in distress had to wear something girly. When I found out, I didn't hesitate slashing their breeches with my dull knife. They cried the whole day but Father only laughed at them and told them not to get things from me without my permission. "Speaking of the boys, how is Gino?" I asked.

"He's much better now, don't worry. But he's still resting his feet while your Father orders for new shoes for him. He still can't train," Mother said in one breath. "If you want you could visit the boys' chambers and say hello. You still have an hour before meeting with the King." I gave Mother a weak smile and nodded my head. We both exited my chambers only parting ways when she told me she will be joining Father and Lord Tywin for lunch. I kissed her on the cheek before heading towards my brothers' chambers.

I knocked softly on the door and said, "Cosimo, Gino?" A small voice came in from inside the room and allowed me to enter. I slowly crept inside, trying my best not to disturb Gino laying on the bed. "Where's Cosimo?" I asked.

"He said he was getting us something to eat from the kitchens." He sat up and fixed his hair before tapping the spot beside him, gesturing for me to sit down. "You look beautiful today, Sister. Impressing the boy-King?" he teased.

I playfully pushed him back earning a laugh from him. "Where did you learn that nonsense?" I said with a smile. "No, I am not impressing anyone especially the boy-King. I just want to look proper today as he will be showing me around the castle grounds. There's a high chance that we will meet some important people, as well. I wanted to be prepared."

"Of course, you're not impressing the boy-King. But I reckon you want Lorcan Rosby's eyes all over you." I rolled my eyes at him making him laugh harder. I threatened to give him a real slap but he put his hands up in surrender and added, "I know he's not here. And I know you're not interested. You're never interested."

"Good that you know that," I remarked. I streered the conversation another way and tok advantage of Cosimo's advantage. "So, how are you feeling? You still can't train, Mother said. And I see Cosimo is taking care of you." At this, his eyes dropped down to his lap and his smile faltered a bit. "I'm sorry I didn't mean to—"

"It's fine, Sister," he cut off. I know he feels weak and the three of us, siblings, hate feeling weak. We loathe the idea of not training or even just being sick. We feel like we can't improve if we stay in bed all day. "It won't be long before I have new shoes to wear and the growth spurt still has a few things that will change me and I'm trying my best to prepare." He breathed in then gave a wide smile at me afterwards. "But everything's fine. It's normal. I have to apologize for yelling at you. I didn't mean to. I was just in a state of shock."

My arm snaked around his shoulders and pulled him close to me. "Don't worry about it, little brother." I kissed the top of his head and rubbed the side of his arm. "You're just growing." He chuckled.

He pulled away from me with a concerned look on his face. "I… I-I have something to confess, Corabella." He stammered out his words to which I gave him a questioning look. I heard him swallow a lump in his throat before continuing. "I don't want you to laugh at me, Corabella. But the reason why I said all those things is because I'm scared." We hate feeling scared as well. It is a normal human emotion but for us, being on the brink of fear means total surrender or pain. Our minds trick us not to fight back during the course of fear. "Cosimo and I, we've been together ever since the beginning. We were birthed together and I'm just scared of leaving him alone. I don't want to grow just yet unless he doesn't. When these changes occur to me and it doesn't to him, it makes me feel like I'm leaving him and I don't want that to happen. You might be thinking that I am weak right now but that's just how I feel. Cosimo is my best friend and my brother and I don't want to leave him."

When he finished, I took the opportunity to completely embrace him. I felt him shake under my arms but I assured him to the best of my abilities. I comforted my little brother and only if I could, I would take his fears away. "You're not leaving him, Brother. Just because you're twins doesn't mean everything you experience will also be experienced by him. He will undergo these changes, too, Gino, but not right now. And that doesn't mean you're leaving him behind. That will never happen."

"Thank you, Corabella. I know you love us both and I know you only want what's best for us even if we're not the perfect brothers."

"You really aren't," I teased to ease the tension happening in the room. Gino looked up at me and smiled even wider despite the tears accumulating in his eyes. "I'm not the best sister either but that I do love you both and I know you both love me, too. Don't worry too much, brother. Promise me." My brother nodded before looking towards the entering figure. Cosimo struggled with carrying the trays full of bowls and plates on his hands. I stood up and help him set down the trays on their table. "Why aren't you asking for the maids help?"

"I could manage. Why are you here, Sister?" he asked dumbfounded. "You're supposed to be meeting with the boy-King, aren't you?"

"Yes, I am," I answered. "That is why I will be leaving right now. I just made sure Gino is fine now that you are taking care of him." I ruffled his hair making him look down the plates on the tray with cheeks burning up. "Go have lunch now, brothers. I'll see you later."

Tommen's Point of View

It annoys me that both Grandfather and Mother notices my attraction to Lady Corabella even though I am trying hard not to show it. There might be occasional slip-ups but only keen eyes would deduce the feelings I have for her whenever I steal a glance. There are instances when I let myself submerge into my fantasies but of course, I only do it whenever no one is around. For instance, I didn't sleep well enough last night because whenever I close my eyes, her blue ones appear at the back of my lids. I spent the night sitting on the balcony overlooking the sea and imagined her right beside me. Her taste still lingers on my mouth and the ghost of her velvety lips haunt my own. I would love to keep it that way because the chances of me having that kind of contact with her again seem impossible. There are times when butterflies invade my stomach and I wouldn't have control of the heat creeping down my skin. I don't want to think of lustful scenes in my head but the impulses are strong. No, I respect Lady Corabella and I must not think of things like that about her.

"Did I keep you waiting, little boy?" Her voice made me turn in an instant and at the sight of her, my legs forced me to stand up, my eyes widened to take in more of her. She's wearing a tight-fitting blue dress with a rather low neckline exposing her collar bones. The curves of her hips were emphasized by the fabric and the belt around her waist even hugged her shape even more. I felt my forehead swear and my jaw slightly drop down. Her long hair fell down the side of her right shoulder exposing the creamy skin of her left. "Tommen?"

"I- ugh." I swallowed. Hard. I didn't look her directly in the eye and instead focused on the pot of plant beside her. There is absolutely nothing sensible running through my head even if I'm forcing myself to think. I carefully gathered my words and I reckon it did take a moment. "No, I was just early. You look very beautiful, my Lady." I managed to say those words, still not looking at her. She made a tiny sound as she smiled. "Can I-I… ugh… interest you for a bite or a drink or do you want to walk around?" I asked politely.

"Some biscuits will do, if you don't mind," she answered. I snapped my fingers at the maids lined up beside the gazebo. They quickly ran for the kitchens while I proceeded to pull out a chair for Lady Corabella. "Oh, and please, just call me Corabella," she added before walking towards the chair. I watch her sit down, half of her naked back exposed, again, making me swallow. Her fair, unblemished skin stared right at me and the smell of vanilla and carnations invaded my nostrils. I didn't know I was staring for a while until she turned around and said, "As much as you would like to stand up, I'd rather have you sitting down opposite me, little boy."

With an embarrassing smile on my face, I did just as I was told. I returned to my seat just in time for the maids to return. As per the Lady's request, biscuits were presented to us on plates and bottles of wine, cider, and water accompanied them. I asked for the maids to leave us just as Corabella was reaching for the bottle of cider. "Let me, my L—" I was cut off when she raised a teasing brow at me. Realizing my mistake, I coughed and corrected what I was going to say. "Let me, Corabella." We smirked at each other as I filled her goblet but hers was more innocent. She gave me her thanks before taking a sip. I didn't bother touching my food, I just wanted to watch her. The way she moves is fascinating. She blinks rather slowly and her nostrils flare slightly whenever she drinks. She carefully chews her food and she only uses her thumb and forefinger to pick up the bits of pastry. We were silent for a while, me watching her eat, her not looking at me. The lapping waves of the sea, our breathing, and the soft crunches with her every bite played in perfect harmony. But I took the liberty to break the silence. "Why do you always call me 'little boy' when I am obviously taller and older than you?"

She was a bit surprised when she paused her chewing. She must not have expected me to speak. "I just thought it was appropriate since you are a young King." A soft chuckle escaped from her lips. "But if it really bothers you, I would refrain from using it."

"Please do," I said. "I wouldn't force you to call me by my proper titles but I'd rather have you calling me 'Tommen'." I added in one breath.

She nodded her head in response and said, "Very well. Tommen it is." She didn't finish the five biscuits on her plate and only ate two when she took a final sip from her goblet. "That was lovely," she murmured to herself but it was loud enough for me to hear. I watched her set her goblet down but jumped a bit when I noticed her staring at me. No, not at me. My hair. With eyes half-squinting, she examined my hair with each blink. "You look… nice today. Your hair isn't all over the place like it always is."

I felt my cheeks burn up at her remark. I didn't think she'd notice. I did put some effort in keeping my curls at bay because I know it annoys her when it's untamed. She wiped her hands on the napkin sitting beside her plate and waited for me to somehow start our tour. "So, shall we stroll around the grounds?" I asked. She nodded and instantly stood up. I followed her lead and headed for the gazebo's exit. She stopped to fix herself and after she did, I offered my arm for her. I sensed her reluctance when she looked at me straight in the eye as if unsure of my actions. I nudged my arm in the air and urged her to take it. I thought she wouldn't and it was a lame attempt of being a gentleman to her but she gave me a genuine smile and let her arm wrap around mine as we take our first steps away from the gardens.

I escorted her around the Red Keep and showed her the architecture of the castles. Our first destination was the Great Hall where I showed her the Iron Throne. I told her the history behind it, how it was made in particular which fascinated her. I let her sit down the throne but her face scrunched up in discomfort making her stand up at once earning a laugh from me. Next was the Tower of the Hand where we were greeted by Grandfather and her parents who were all eating lunch. Grandfather told us to head for somewhere else as the tower is off-limits to which all three of them laughed at. Corabella and I just thought it was a little awkward. So, we headed to the White Sword Tower where the Kingsguard houses in. Only a handful was present when we came but each pair of eyes were fixed on my companion, much to my annoyance. Our last destination was the Godswood, located on an isolated section of the gardens. Corabella insisted on visiting the Traitor's walk when she heard that it is where heads on spikes are located but I refused because I don't think it's appropriate to take her there and because I myself cannot stomach the sight of it. Especially when Ned Stark's head belongs in there, too.

"I would have taken you to the Grand Sept but it is outside the castle grounds and I think it wouldn't be safe for us to leave," I said.

Her arm abandoned mine a few minutes ago and was now walking in front of me giving me a full view of her exposed back. For the third time, I swallowed. "I can handle myself but I agree because you haven't advanced on you lessons, yet." She turned her back momentarily making me glance away from her. "But don't worry. I'm not very religious so it's not very important. I'm just happy you're taking me in a secret place I haven't seen before."

"The Godswood are lovely," I said just as we were entering the said place. It's much more peaceful here and compared to the main gardens, the Godswood has different flowers that are not seen on the gardens. I really think she will enjoy the sight of the said flora. "I used to pray here every day but ever since Joffrey's reign, we weren't allowed to go here anymore."

"Why not?" she asked while sitting down a raised log of wood.

"He doesn't want us to have faith anymore." I said bluntly. I looked at the bright green grass on my feet adorned with the fallen scarlet leaves of the Weirwood. It has been a while since I visited here. "I still remember the day before my sister left. She wanted to pray here with me but Mother said it was best for her to pack her things up. I told her I'm going to bring a piece of Weirwood or even its leaf to her so she could pray but the guards didn't let me out of their sight. I couldn't go here."

"What did you do, then?" she asked.

I didn't look up at my companion and instead, continued my story. "I picked a random leaf in the gardens then headed out to the kitchen. I asked the butcher if he could dip the leaf on the blood on his bowl. At first he laughed at me and asked me what I was up to but seeing that I was young and likes to play around, he plucked the leaf from my hand and dipped it on his bowl. I rushed straight to Myrcella's chambers. I found her crying silently but I wiped away her tears and showed her the leaf. She didn't believe me that it was a Weirwood leaf but I insisted and joked about it until she laughed. Then, she held the leaf on her palm and made me hold it over with my own. I prayed that day. I asked the gods to guide Myrcella to her destination and send her there safely. I didn't ask my sister what her prayers were about but I bet it's the same thing."

"She must have prayed for you, for your safety here in King's Landing," Corabella reassured. I nodded at her and agreed. That's what my sister would do, pray for me ensure my safety. "I seldom pray but when I do, I pray for others, especially my brothers. I bet Myrcella did as well. Maybe she's praying for you right now."

"Then it's only fair for me to give her my prayers as well." And so I did. I kneeled in front of the Weirwood and put my hand on its trunk and closed my eyes. I prayed for Myrcella, for her safety. I prayed for Joffrey and my Father's souls, may they find peace. I pray for Mother, for her patience and love. I prayed for Grandfather, for his wisdom and guidance. I prayed for Margaery, for her loyalty and understanding. I prayed for my subjects, for their perseverance and trust. I prayed for her, Corabella, for her to be just the way she is right now. I felt my shoulders lighten from the months of doubt I have released into my prayers. I opened my eyes slowly and I see her, looking at me, studying me.

"I had an epiphany, Tommen," she said. I only stared at her not sure how to respond. "I see, truly see now that you are not only a good King but also a good and kind person. And that's what makes you fascinating, what makes you different from your brother and all the Kings before you." I felt my knees go weak and my stomach tumble. My cheeks burned but I can't smile. I felt something deep for her right at that moment and I know she did, too.

So it didn't surprise me when she kneeled in front of me, reaching out her hand to find my shoulders. Her delicate hands moved slowly to my chest as she came face to face with me. There was a moment of doubt in both of our eyes. Her orbs searching for a sign to continue and mine did as well. My hand rested on the side of her chest and the other on the curve of her hip. "If this is true, if this is real, give me a sign, Corabella. Tell me that you are real."

"I am, Tommen. I am real like the beat of your heart and the shaking of your limbs, and your desires and fantasies." She whispered slowly. "And if this is the only day that we have, the first and last, then I ask you my King," she called me by my proper title. "I ask you to kiss me."

And so I did. I kissed her passionately, pouring all of my emotions into her. I blocked out the other things outside our own bubble. Right now all I feel is her touch. All I taste are her lips. All I hear are our hearts beating, synchronizing with each other. And all I am is her, and all she is is me. This is reality, this is my epiphany. And the truth is I am deeply and painfully in love with Lady Corabella Doreen.

Author's Note: Sooooooo. I'm gonna leave it at that. *Winks*

Qs:

- How do you feel about the other characters' views towards the interaction between Corabella and Tommen?

- How do you feel about Corabella and Tommen's epiphany?

- What would you want to happen next?