The Other Side of Fairytale

Chapter Ten: Trapped

Annabelle slumped on her bed wrapped in Liam's strong arms sobbing. Liam held her tracing soothing circles on her back as she cried. Once her tears slowed she heard his voice "Lady Annabelle, may I ask what happened between you and Drake?"

She looked at him, unsure of how to answer. He saw the concern etched on her brow and reassured her, "It's quite alright, Lady Annabelle. I understand that your relationship with Drake is private. I was only hoping to understand what occurred that caused such a rift?"

Annabelle looked at Liam stunned.

"You... you know?"

Liam clarified, "of your relationship with Drake? Yes, I know." He nodded

"Well, honestly I really don't know what happened." She sniffled trying to choke back the emotions. "He basically called me a whore, and told me to stay away from him." She hurried out as another sob crept out. She looked up to Liam. " I can only assume that it has something to do with you bringing me back to court to be your Mistress" she looked up to Liam shyly.

She had been told that was why she was back, but had not yet discussed it with Liam. They had never shared more than a kiss so she was somewhat uncomfortable with the presumption.

He looked at her shaking his head. "I am sorry to say that I do not believe that is the reason that Drake is upset, Lady Annabelle". She looked at him curiously. "Drake told me about your relationship with him and his feelings for you. You were brought back so that we can clear your name. Drake asked for my blessing to pursue a relationship with you, and of course I granted it". He stopped looking Annabelle in the eyes, "if that is what you want of course".

She nodded.

"I have asked for Drake's assistance in clearing both your name and Duchess Olivia's name, it appears she was also forced out of the running." She looked at Liam with amazement. "I can assure you Lady Annabelle, I am stumped as to why Drake made such hurtful statements. As of yesterday morning, he had not indicated any change in his feelings for you. "

"Wait, so you did not bring me back to be your mistress?" Annabelle questioned.

Liam let out a long exhale and rubbed his hand down his face. "Lady Annabelle, I wanted you to return to court and to have a chance to make things right for you. When Drake admitted to his feelings for you and that those feelings were returned, I admit I was a bit....disappointed. However, I had suspected as much and would never do anything to disrupt your happiness."

Annabelle looked at Liam questioningly. "But....?"

Liam continued "But, if things do not work out with Drake, and in spending time with me you feel you would like something more, I certainly would not be opposed to that...if it is what you want." He added reverentially.

She dropped her head into her hands sighing and shaking her head. "What is it with this country?" she mumbled.

"Pardon me?" Liam asked.

She stood up pacing. "In New York I am absolutely no one." She was waving her arms around in frustration. "I waitress at a bar and every guy that walks in looks right past me. Here it's like I'm some shiny new toy everyone wants to fucking play with. Just pass me around from one person to the next, like my feelings don't count or matter" she had tears running down her face.

Liam stood, grabbing her gently by the shoulders, bending his head down to look into her eyes.

"Your feelings do matter Lady Annabelle. They matter a great deal. I am sorry that my....offer made you feel they do not. I just wanted you to realize that you do have options."