Hello, my loves! Finally, the first chapter is here! A couple of quick housekeeping items. First, I had to pivot from the "arranged marriage" angle for Drew and Leslie mentioned in the preface. With the material already written from that other previous story it wasn't feasible to make this happen. So, the Drew character is already married. Second, yes, I will be using material that I wrote for that other story. What I wrote for that one is MY intellectual property. The Drew and Leslie story deserves to be told the right way and by the one that truly cares for the characters. Also, I will use italics to represent characters' inner monologue.

OK, are you ready to start this journey? Love, betrayal, sex, action, angst...let's do this! Enjoy!

*Please note that I do not own WWE characters. They belong to themselves. I only own Leslie. *

March 1845

The Road to Glasgow from Ayr

Leslie POV

"Hey Drew! Let's play hide and go seek! Bet you can't find me!"

"Shouldn't we wait on Karrion to join us? And you know I'll always find you, Sweet!"

"Nah! He's always such a party pooper. Close your eyes and count!"

Drew smiles with those beautiful dimples and turns around covering his eyes with his hands, "One…two…three…"

I run into the haunted forest by the loch. Not too far as I can still hear the waterfall in the background. I find a large round oak tree and put my back to it. My chest is heaving from sprinting into the wooded area so fast. My heart is pounding.

I hear Drew call out faintly, "Ready or not, Sweet! Here I come! I'm gonna find you!"

I gulp as my ears pick up the rustling of the leaves crushing under Drew's feet. I dare to peep around the tree to see if I can spot Drew looking for me. I'm not seeing him. Ha! I must be hidden so well, even the great boy hunter, my best friend, and future King of Scotland can't find me. I relax my body and spin around, and that devil is standing right in front of me!

That gorgeous devil, with his long dark brown hair, hypnotizing blueberry colored eyes, and that damn smirk. At thirteen, he is the most beautiful boy my 11-year-old green eyes have ever laid eyes on. We may have been best friends since our youngest memories, but I have never confessed that I have been truly, madly and deeply in love with him ever since. And I doubt I ever will.

I jump with a start and laugh, "Oh double damn, Drew! You scared me! How did you make it all the way over here and I not hear you?"

My heart forgets to beat and my breath catches in my throat and he leans in and whispers, "No matter where you go, I will always find you, my Sweet."

I startled out of that sleeping memory by that rough bump in the road. After a long boat ride from Ireland to the First of Clyde in Ayr, we chartered a carriage to take us to the castle I spent so many childhood days.

I smooth my mint green riding dress as I feel so very flushed. I dreamed of him again. My sweet Drew. After being forced to leave Scotland and move to Ireland by my father all those years ago in my mid-teens, you would think my love and memory of him would've faded. It never did. It never will.

When I found out he married Princess Genevieve when she came of age a couple of years later, it broke my heart. But then, I heard about her passing a couple of years ago. I never heard any details, only that she had died, leaving the McIntyre line without an heir.

After getting my hopes up that I may go back someday and confess my love for him, those were dashed a couple of months ago when I found out through the gossip mill that he married some common girl named Scarlett. I guess he must've fell in love with her. Why does this hurt so bad? He was never mine.

I never had the courage to tell him how I felt. I pretty sure he never saw me in that light. I was only his best friend. Just Leslie McLean. But now, I return to my beloved country the refined woman I was always raised to be, just slightly near the spinster age. Not that my little wild streak has strayed too far from me. Not that any of these things matter now. Drew has his bride.

Taking a breath before I burst into tears with these thoughts, I look across from me and have to smile. I see the mirthful face of my guardian, King Sheamus O'Shaunessy of Ireland. With his head full of red hair and handsome bearded face, he grins at me. While his hair color more resembles fire, mine is more crimson with my long curls. With his kind hazel eyes, he has been more than my protector since my father died. He's also been a dear friend.

We have an implicit trust between us. He values my opinion and counsel, and has placed me into his inner circle, both politically and socially. This privilege is very rarely bestowed on a female in this day, time and place. That is part of the reason I'm taking part in this trip to Scotland, to assist King Sheamus in negotiations with Drew for an accord that'll make our kingdoms stronger against England.

I am forever in his debt. He has taken great care of my entire family and of me after my father's death and even before when we first moved to the Emerald Isle. Graeme McLean forced my mother and I to leave Scotland after serving under King Duncan McIntyre, his best friend.

After my mother passed from a mysterious brain illness only a year after we moved, Sheamus made allowance for us to live in the castle, where I would fall under his protection as his ward. He ensured that I had access to the best education his money could afford. Most importantly, he agreed that I will never have to marry unless I want to. And I will never tie myself to any man for any other reason but true love.

I refuse to give my life to a man who I do not feel that emotion for and does not reciprocate it for me in return. I've only ever loved once before, and that hasn't faded with time. Sheamus likes to say that 'The only thing greener than the grass of our country are yer eyes, lass. And I hope someday, they will fix on a lad worthy of yer love.' This sweet flattery will always make me giggle.

Sheamus asks, "How ye feeling, lass? I know ye must be happy being back in yer native Scotland."

I breathe in the smell of honeysuckle and heather, then exhale, "I am! It's just like I remember it."

Sheamus gives a gregarious laugh, "Ah, Leslie Catriona McLean. Seeing yer emerald eyes light up makes this whole trip more than worth it. Let yer eyes rest if ye can. We still have a long journey before we reach Castle McIntyre."

I look out the window of the carriage and know there is no way that will happen. I'm too excited and keyed up to sleep. I'm back home! And I'm anxious about laying eyes on my true love once more. I wonder if he's only grown more handsome with time and age.

Who am I kidding? He may not even remember me or have given me a second thought after I left. But I'll never forget him. To his people, he is King Andrew McIntyre of Scotland. To me, he will always be that sweet boy I fell in love with in childhood and who still dominates my sweetest dreams and wildest fantasies…

Castle McIntyre: Glasgow, Scotland

Drew POV

I'm in my bedchamber looking down at my army running their field exercises. Looks like Karrion Kross, the head of my army, second in command, and best friend since childhood, has my men in tip top form as always. I pride myself on the men I put into battle. They've haven't failed me yet.

I just awoke and I'm standing here by the window bare arsed since my lovely wife, Scarlett, left our marriage bed early again. We've only been married a couple of months. She had been placed in my protective care after her father, local blacksmith Silas Bordeaux, passed several years ago while I was still married to poor Ginny.

After she met her tragic fate, I took Scarlett as my mistress. Honestly after being in a loveless arranged marriage for years bearing no heir, I wanted to just play around with someone. But alas, that stupid bylaw stating I had to produce a legitimate heir by age forty killed my fun.

I married this one because of convenience yet again. And I don't mean to sound harsh about dear Ginny. I grew to be very fond of her as she was very sweet natured and giving in spirit. But neither of us were allowed to let our feelings grow naturally. I still mourned her passing when that wolf attacked and mauled her to death while we were out on a military stand.

I guess I'm destined to never let love into my heart. Definitely not with this one. Sure, Scarlett is fun for a good fuck, but she's not too bright and has zero decorum. The ladies in my household can't stand her and, after seeing the way she treats them, I don't blame them. Power went to her vapid blonde head very quickly.

I had started to fool myself that I was in love with her when I proposed. But now, even in this short timespan since I ted myself to her, I realize that was never the case. But I'm forced to keep up the facade for the sake of my kingdom and my people.

The McIntyre line needs an heir to persevere. I guess I better stop pulling out and spilling myself onto the sheets every time we fuck. I guess it's a force of habit from when she was my mistress. But deep down, I know I don't want her as mother to my children. She is selfish and crude, not at all who I saw myself being married to one day. If only I had been allowed to follow my heart and marry the one girl I'd wanted since childhood. If only she hadn't left…

Oh, bollocks! I have to put these thoughts away. Time to get ready for the day and prepare for the arrival of King Sheamus of Ireland and his entire entourage. We have to iron out this accord to make our kingdoms stronger lest the British take us both out. I'll never allow Scotland to fall under English rule, not while my heart still beats.

Karrion POV

After a damn brutal morning of military exercises…and fucking the Queen out by the river…I'm cleaned up and ready for this damn asinine summit with that Irish idiot, King Sheamus. I'm waiting in the Great Hall. I want this shit over with so I can enact my plan… This is such a stupid idea, but what do I know? I'm not the King.

I should be but that distinction belongs to my dear best friend, Drew. I'm not of the royal line. Drew befriended me as a kid and had his father, King Duncan, take me in when both my parents died. We were practically raised as brothers, but I was never his equal. I've had to put up the guise that I give a shit about him for so damn long, it's draining.

Pampered fucking Prince Drew got the world handed to him. I did everything I could to undercut him. If he wanted a toy, I'd take it from him. If he liked a girl, I'd fuck her and take her away. No woman has ever said no to me, including the current Queen and…I have to snicker internally about that one. Pool little fool! And any woman that would say no to me, well, let's just say their resolve didn't last very long.

But yes, I'm fucking the beautiful Queen Scarlett. We actually have had a thing going for quite some time. Ever since she was nothing but the common bitch daughter of the blacksmith. Then, Drew took her has a mistress, but that didn't stop me. NOTHING stops me from having what I want.

I walk into Your Royal HighnASS's office and find him pouring over the plans and strategies he started mapping out for this stupid accord a month ago. Yes, we do need help with the British but from that joke of a country and king? Plus, he's way too loyal to Drew. This will make things most difficult for me.

I clear my throat, "Drew, the watchman has reported that Sheamus' carriages have been spotted close to the castle. They should be arriving soon."

He looks up and smiles, "Excellent, brother. I'm quite anxious to get these meetings started."

I snicker, "I can see that. Going over the details again, I see. It's a solid plan." Whether I like it or not, the bastard is a sound strategist and strong leader.

He stands up and walks over to the door with me, "Aye. Just making last minute adjustments."

I pat him on the back (looking for the best place to plant my knife eventually), "You worry too much. This agreement will make those bloody Redcoats regret trying to take our Kingdom. We'll leave Queen Victoria and sissy Captain Cody pissing in their knee britches."

He laughs, "Aye, indeed. Well let's go greet our distinguished quests for the next few days, shall we?"

As he leaves, I take a peek out of the window and see the entourage has arrives. For fuck's sake! Did he bring all of Dublin with him? This is alloying as hell! I'll be the one stuck with having to babysit these idiot bog jumpers the entire time they're here while the "Kings" posture. Great! Thanks, Drew!

Oh well, HELLO! Who is that gorgeous creature that stepped out of the carriage with Sheamus? I wasn't aware that he had married. Maybe his sister or mistress. No matter that her face is distorted by that birdcage veil. That tight ass and that huge set of tits she has on her… Maybe, this visit won't be too bad after all when I fuck that one!

Leslie POV

As I stepped out of the carriage, I had to hold in my cries. I'm truly home! This place hasn't changed a bit. I can't wait to get inside to see everything I've missed so desperately. I've never told Sheamus about by closeness with the McIntyre clan, even though he knew my father had served King Duncan. I did this on purpose. I never wanted to be treated differently by him or anyone in his court due to my connection to the family.

I'm anxious to look at the grounds, see the kitchen where I spent so much time with sweet Queen Angela, God rest her beautiful soul. But mostly, I'm excited to get on a horse and ride to my family's lands by the waterfall, breathing in that heather laden air.

I've never failed to dream about that place, just like I've never stopped loving Drew. I'm not looking forward to meeting this damn wife of his, but if Drew's content, then I have to respect that and be happy for him not matter how much it fucking hurts.

I walk in with Sheamus and the whole crew, including that stupid drunk oaf, Ridge Holland. Ugh, never mind about him. I catch glances with several of the household ladies who recognize me immediately. They gasp and I have to give them the 'shhh' motion to quiet them and give a wink with a smile. I don't want them ruining the surprise for Drew. If he even remembers me, that is.

I look around and reign in my tears. Castle McIntyre is exactly as I remember. The stone walls and tapestries, the lovely painting of Queen Angela from her wedding day to King Duncan still hangs in the place of prominence as it should, and the smell of fresh bread wafting from the kitchen. I'm really home!

Oh, I see damn Karrion Keith Kross approaching from the King's office and greeting Sheamus with a handshake. My other best friend from childhood. Larger and dumber looking than ever, I see. Guess he finally shaved his greasy brown hair off. I look forward to confounding him with our playful banter one more.

Looks like he's the head of Drew's army now. I had a feeling that would be the case. Even though we also were close, he didn't know how to take me. I'm pretty sure I'm the only girl that never threw herself at his feet or on his dick. But still, there was always something about him that I never fully trusted, and with good reason.

Then, I hear that gruff, sexy Scottish voice boom through the hallway, "Sheamus! Ye old bastard! Welcome to my home!"

A short huff has escaped my lips after finally recovering my breath. Oh my god! It's Drew! I knew he'd be more handsome, but nothing could prepare me for just how goddamn good looking he has become! His hair is darker, practically black. He has a beard. And my GOD, his body! He is all muscle as I gaze at him in his white tunic top and blue tartan kilt. He is more than I dared to fantasize about for all these years.

Sheamus narrows his eyes, "Ye really gonna start that old bastard shite with me, McIntyre? Ye bleeding hairy muppet!"

There is a tense moment, but it quickly vanishes as they embrace heartily. They pat each other on the back as Drew said, "Aye, I gotta keep you honest. You know when we met, I was seventeen and you were forty-seven."

Sheamus rolls his eyes, "There ye go with those bollocks."

Drew chuckles, "But seriously, it' great to see you, my old friend. I'm looking forward to bringing our two great kingdoms together. Not sure where my wife is, but we both shall endeavor to make your stay as hospitable as possible."

Sheamus gestures to those of us in his court, "Allow me to introduce you to my Royal Court members. First, this is Pete Dunne, the leader of my army." Make no mistake, Pete is short in stature, but he is as tough as they come. He is brutal in battle and as loyal to Sheamus as the day is long.

Sheamus continues, "Also, this is Ridge Holland. He defected from British rule a few years ago. He has been most useful in gathering intel into the inner workings of their strategies." He's also a disgusting pig bitch. Yuck! Don't get me started…

He allows the other male members to meet Drew until he turns to me, "And last but not least, the most intelligent and beautiful member of my court…"

Before he could finish his sentence, Drew's eyes lock with mine and his normally strong voice quivers, "Leslie? Oh my God! Leslie McLean, is that you?"