Once Upon A Drunken Mistake

17. Target

WARNING - This chapter contains scenes of violence and sexual assault that may be disturbing to some readers. (A short overview will be given at the end for those who do not wish to read.)

"Flora!" Indiana exclaimed as she burst into the room of sleeping couple. With a groan, Flora sat up as she rubbed her eyes. Hayden who slept next to her brought the duvet covers over his head as Indiana opened the curtains to let some light in.

       "Indiana it is —" Flora paused as she checked the clock near her. "Eight in the morning and as far as I know there are no royal duties we have to attend to today."

       Indiana pulled Flora out of bed much to Hayden's dismay, but the raven-headed boy was too sleepy to protest. "BENJAMIN ASKED ME ON A DATE!" Indiana squealed.

       "Aren't you guys already going out?" Flora asked as the pair entered Flora's closet which now was now occupied by some of Hayden's clothes as well. Indiana picked out a pair of light blue jeans, white button up shirt with blue stripes and a green sweater.

       "We were on the talking stage," Indiana clarified as she handed her friends the clothes. "But this is the first REAL date he has asked me out, outside of a royal estate."

       "Well, I am happy for you, but why do I have to leave my bed and get dressed?" Flora asked, still confused and dazed with sleep.

       Indiana pinched the bridge of her nose and said, "We are going shopping, duh!"

       "Indiana, you have a closet full of clothes." Flora reasoned, earning a frown from her best friend.

       "But I want to wear something new and special for this date." Indiana whined. "Ple-e-e-ase?"

"Fine," Flora sighed in defeat as her friend did a little dance of victory. "I'll meet you downstairs."

"Thank you!" Indiana hugged her friend with a big grin on her face. "And don't you dare go back to bed. I'll be waiting for you!"

Flora chuckled at her friend's warning as the two walked back into the bedroom. Indiana left the room and Flora made her way to the bathroom. The brunette brushed her teeth and washed her face, getting rid of her sleepy state. After a long yawn, Flora changed into the clothes Indiana had chosen and slipped on her white heels. The tired brunette let her hair fall in waves and only applied a bit of blush and mascara.

"Why are dressed-up?" Hayden asked with a sad pout as he looked up at his wife.

       Flora sat next to Hayden and brushed his messy raven locks. "Indiana wants me to accompany her while she shops for an outfit. Benjamin asked her on an official date and she wants to wear something new and special."

       "No," Hayden whined as he wrapped his arm around Flora and brought her close to him. "Don't leave me, please?"

       "I will be back before you know it," Flora assured before leaning down placing a peck on Hayden's cheek. The action brought a smile to the half-asleep raven-head.

       "I am assuming Benjamin will not be welcomed to accompany you?" Hayden asked to which Flora nodded.

       "I don't think Indiana would like for him to see the outfit beforehand." Flora reasoned.

       "In that case, take Micaela and have Antonio drive you there." Hayden said as he rested his head on his hand for support. "Have five of the other guards stand by at a safe distance."

       "Okay, your royal highness." Flora teased, but Hayden gave her a serious look.

       "I am serious, my love." He reached up to cup Flora's rosy cheek. "I want you safe and sound."