The Unexpected Journey-A Prince Harry Fan Fic

Chapter 132

When Maddie was younger, she had a music box. It was a small, ornately painted box with a lid that snapped open and closed with a force that could take fingers off—of this she was certain. But the inside was her absolute favorite part. When the music began to play, a series of small, paper people would stand up and begin to move about on a track in an intricate dance. The paper people were beautiful; hand painted and delicate and she loved the way they moved about the box, over the soft pink fabric that lined the inside. When she was younger, she had imagined a day long in the future when she might be in a moment like the one in her box. Beautiful music, people dressed in lovely soft tones and smiles and a feeling of carefree blissfulness. And that was very much what her life had become. This intricate dance among beautiful people. And everything about it made her smile, seemed to fit within the dance she was doing—even the harder points.

As they drew further and further into October, they had another tiny setback. Maddie finished up another week of her period, another week of realization that she and Harry were yet to join nearly everyone around them in being parents. This time it wasn't as difficult to absorb and this time Harry made quick and serious promises to double his efforts. Though Maddie joked about needing to start taking vitamins and taking up yoga, she loved him so much for being so great to her in those moments. So she wallowed for a few minutes and then she sucked it up and carried on.

And before she knew it, she and Harry were on their way to Bishop's father's country estate for Bishop and Ella's reception. It was going to be quite the affair; Tattler's list of Who's Who were turning out in droves to celebrate the marriage of the only son of Sir Ian Bishop the Second. And Their Royal Highnesses were at the top of that list. And, given the fact that she was not pregnant, Maddie had every intention of tying one on.

It had been a long few weeks. Since Kate's near spiral that night in the bathroom, Maddie had found herself stepping up more with her royal duties; attending a few events with Will in place of Kate, being at St. James Palace for her 'meetings' with Gerald. But the happy point was that Kate was doing better. She would have moments of back sliding, moments of weakness, but overall she seemed happier; brighter and it never really neared what it had been that night. Maddie only imagined that she would continue to blossom and recover as time passed and her sessions continued.

But this night, this night of celebration and revelry, this night was going to be a chance to kick back, have some champagne, flirt with her husband and catch up with old friends. And Maddie was more than looking forward to it. So was the handsome man sitting next to her; smiling wide as he watched her watch the scenery pass by them.

"You look amazing," Harry held her fingers in his as they drove through the countryside.

"Thank you," she turned her smile to him; unsure if he had forgotten that he had told her that already or if he was just trying to secure himself a spot in her bed for the night. Either way, she would take it. "You look quite dashing yourself."

"Dashing?" He lifted an eyebrow; the beginnings of a chuckle on his lips.

"Isn't that the appropriate word for a man in a morning suit?" She grinned, looking him over from head to toe.

"Maybe," Harry smirked and shrugged, content and at ease as they neared the estate. He turned his eyes to her neck and nodded. "It looks beautiful on you."

Maddie's eyes grew soft and her fingers rose to her neck, running lightly over the pearls, circling the sapphire. His mother's necklace—her necklace—he had given her in the US. It went perfectly with the dress she had chosen and he was right. As much as she didn't like blowing her own horn, the necklace looked beautiful with her outfit and it made her feel feminine and elegant.

"Thank you," she took in a breath and squeezed his hand. "I'm happy to have a reason to bring it out."

And what a reason it was.

Bishop and Ella were married. The estate was immaculate and Maddie knew from the planning that the reception was going to be elegant and rich and full of all of the pomp one might expect at "The Social Event of the Season". The buildup had been quite the turn of events and Maddie had enjoyed watching it all unfold. When the news hit that Ian Bishop the Third had married, women across the country were surprised, the business community he worked with sent congratulations from all over the world. And, as it turned out, Bishop had a small cult following of fans who had seen him out with Harry throughout the years and had developed their own little club. Watching Ella discover the disappointment that hit some and the excitement that hit others was comical for Maddie—especially after her own engagement and marriage.

But this night was all about celebration. And that's exactly what the air was full of when Maddie and Harry finally stepped from their car. Maddie thanked the driver, linked her arm through Harry's and offered a smile up for the press that were stationed across the street from the Bishop Family estate. Of course the press was there; the famous faces were abundant. But even better for Maddie and Harry, there were familiar faces. Khenda and Collins assured them they would be making the trip and that made the night just that much more special; a reunion of sorts.

As guests stepped inside the home, they were greeted with friendly attendants; taking their coats, directing them further inside. With bright smiles and high spirits, the newlyweds, along with their parents, were lined up to greet all of the guests. Bishop looking sharp as ever and Ella looking blissful and happy and more settled and at peace than Maddie had ever seen her before.

"You came!" Bishop turned to Maddie first with mock surprise and a gleam of wicked in his eyes. "You do love us." He kissed her cheeks and released her, turning to offer the same love to Harry.

"Hi there beautiful," Maddie smiled to her best friend, taking in her hair and her dress and the brilliant smile on her face. "You look stunning."

"Thank you," Ella kissed Maddie's cheeks. "I feel pretty good. And you..." She scanned Maddie with wide eyes. "That's a great necklace. Is it new?"

"To me," Maddie grinned; knowing by the look on Ella's face that she had recognized it. Of course she had. "It's been in the family awhile."

"It's beautiful," Ella whispered.

"Thank you," Maddie whispered back, loving that she had a friend who could be grounded and giddy at the same time.

"Speaking of family," Bishop cut in as Harry moved to greet Ella. "When are you two ever going to get on board with the rest of us and have yourselves a baby?"

"Bishop!" Ella swatted lightly at his arm as she stepped out of Harry's.

"No, no," Maddie's lips pulled higher. "That's a fair question. I'm thinking maybe..." She tossed a wink and a sexy glance to her husband. "Now. Now? What do you say Captain, should we find ourselves a room?"

"I have heard it's the thing to do at receptions these days," Harry's hand slid around her waist, smirk in place. "I'm in."

"Lovely," Ella rolled her eyes just so as Bishop barked out a laugh.

"Hey, you know what..." He leaned closer to the both of them, dropping his voice as his hand waved behind him. "You go ahead and take your pick."

"Nice," Maddie shook her head with a laugh.

"Anything for the cause," Bishop joked. With another round of hugs and some all too short words of congratulations, they were moving down the line.

First they found themselves saying hello to Ella's mother who looked happier than the last time Maddie had seen her. She seemed to feel a little out of place among all of the lavishness that surrounded them. Maddie made it a point to be extra sweet with her and to check in with her that night—she would hope that somebody would do the same for her mother. As they moved further along in the line, Maddie paused for just a moment.

"You okay?" Harry was right behind her; hand at her waist, breath at her ear.

"Mmm," she nodded, her lips smiling as she leaned closer to him. "That man. Is that Bishop's father?" Harry glanced up inconspicuously and nodded.

"It is."

"Jesus..." She whispered, shaking her head as they took a step forward in the line. "That man is incredibly good looking."

"Oh yeah?" Harry's eyebrows shot up, his hand at her waist growing a bit stronger.

"Are you kidding? I can't believe how..." She paused as they inched closer; the guests in front of them taking more time with Bishop's parents. "Oh my God. Is that his mother?"

"Ha!" Harry laughed to himself. "Let me guess, incredibly good looking?"

"Hell yes," Maddie shook her head again. "She's flat out gorgeous."

"Oh God," Harry chuckled; low and rumbly. "Do me a favor. Next time we see Bishop, tell him that...exactly like you just did with those big eyes and that smirk."

"What?" Maddie snickered. "Why?"

"Cause it's going to be amazing I promise." Harry whispered to her just in time for them to step up to Bishop's parents. Maddie watched her husband as he faded into business mode; smile in place as he stretched out his hand. "Mr. Bishop, it's great to see you again Sir."

"Henry," a warm, wide smile spread across the older man's face and Maddie honestly felt a stir in her stomach at how handsome he was. "I'm so happy you were able to make it."

"Anything for Bishop, Sir." Harry hugged the older man and then turned to Maddie, bringing her into the mix. "This is my wife, Madeline. Maddie, this is Sir Ian Bishop the Second."

"Your wife," when Bishop's father turned to Maddie, his eyes crinkled in the corners as his smile tugged higher. Dropping Harry's hand, he reached for Maddie's. "It's fantastic to meet you, Your Royal Highness." And when that man dropped his head in a small bow, lifting her hand to his lips for a kiss, Maddie was absolutely certain her cheeks had flushed pink.

"Oh wow," she couldn't help herself, couldn't stop the words. It was unnatural. "It's wonderful to meet you too Sir."

Holding her hand in his, he stood tall and took them both in and then turned to the handsome, younger man next to him. "This is my partner Michael," he turned a warm smile to him. "Michael, this is Madeline, the Duchess of Sussex."

"Good to meet you Michael," Maddie smiled to him.

"The pleasure is all mine," the young man took her hand, offered a quick drop of his head, a wide smiled and then turned to greet Harry. "Harry."

"Good to see you again, Michael," Harry hugged the man hello.

And Ian Bishop the Second, took Maddie's eyes back into his smoldering gaze and turned to the tall, beautiful woman standing next to him. Maddie watched as she turned to face them and Maddie honestly wasn't sure who made her more nervous; Bishop's father or his mother. She was stunned nearly into silence. So she smiled and shook hands and watched as Harry hugged the woman close; pressing kisses to her cheeks. As they continued cocktail reception, Maddie noticed the way Harry's cheeks were flushed pink; the way he smiled.

"Look at you," Maddie nudged him lightly. "You're all..." She couldn't find a word so she waved her hand over his face with a grin.

"Please," Harry rolled his eyes, swiping two glasses of champagne from a waiter as he passed.

"You are..." Maddie glanced back at Bishop's mother and then to Harry. "You're acting like...I don't know..." Maddie's eyes narrowed as her mind went to work. "Henry Charles..." Her tone dropped as she took a glass from him.

"What?" He snickered.

"Tell me that woman never slipped you her phone number."

"Oh God no!" Harry laughed and leaned in to speak only to her. "I slipped her mine."

"Harry!" Maddie nearly choked on the champagne in her mouth. "You did what?!"

"Easy," Harry took a breath. "She never used it."

"You're terrible." Maddie shook her head.

"I'm sorry," he shrugged. "She is just...stunning. I was young and infatuated."

"You would think that best friends' mothers would be off limits," Maddie found great humor in this new revelation.

"They are," Harry agreed, his head shaking as he remembered razzing Bishop about his mother. "Mothers, Sisters, ex-girlfriends..." Harry took a deep breath and shrugged his shoulders. "I just couldn't help myself."

"Yeah..." Maddie sighed, her eyes slipping over to look at Bishop's father. "There's something about those Bishops."

"Exactly," Harry nodded once and then snapped his eyes to her. "Wait. Hold on."

"You started it," Maddie snickered into her champagne glass; loving the reaction she had just garnered from her husband. "Come on Captain, let's find Khenda and Collins." Without giving the Bishops another glance, without acknowledging her husband's territorial stance, Maddie moved further into the party—and Harry followed right behind her. It was going to be a fun night.

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Everyone was there; all of their friends from London and beyond. Kiki and Sean were there, well ahead of them in champagne consumption and more than a little tipsy. Leo waved from the bar where he was fetching drinks for Anna and Penelope who were already at their table. Bishop and Ella had been graceful in their seating arrangements, putting Maddie and Harry with their regular group of friends—and adding in Khenda and Collins for good measure.

Swapping her empty champagne flute for a full one from a waiter, Maddie clinked her glass to Harry's and lead the way through the room. No sooner had she spotted their table, no sooner had she seen the white of Collins' toothy smile and the gorgeous kink of Khenda's hair, both of them were on their feet. Khenda was pinching Harry's right cheek as she kissed his left. And Collins was hugging Maddie tight to him, her feet lifting just inches off the ground as her head tossed back in a laugh that came from deep inside of her.

"Oh God," she groaned through her smile as she moved to hug Khenda. "It's so good to see you!"

"I was just thinking the same thing," Khenda held Maddie's face in her hands for just a moment as they shared an endearing smile before they pulled apart. "We saw the coverage of your US tour. You looked amazing."

"Oh thank you," Maddie grinned; realizing it had been entirely too long since she had seen them. "I had a really great time."

"You could tell," Khenda assured her.

"Now..." Maddie glanced around the table as they all took seats; settled in. "Everyone's met at least once, no?"

"Yes," Kiki answered. "At your hen party and then at your wedding."

"Ah yes," Maddie nodded. "God, that seems so long ago." The table chuckled at that. "You know what I mean. A lot has happened."

"Yes," Penelope reached for her wine glass. "For instance, Bishop is married."

"Ha!" Harry laughed, holding his drink out to Sean. "A noble club."

"Cheers," Sean chuckled; clinking and drinking.

"And Ella's having a baby," Maddie turned to Khenda who was smiling wide and brilliant. "Can you believe Ella's having a baby?"

"Before you?" Khenda's gaze grew pointed and her smile stretched. "No. I can't believe it." She leaned forward in her chair a bit, narrowing her gaze to Harry. "I'm actually stunned."

"Hey!" Harry held his hands out. "What would you have me do? Keep her locked up in a bedroom all hours of the day and night? My God." He swallowed a mouthful of champagne and retired his glass, ready for whiskey. "I'm trying my level best, love. Cut a guy a break." His eyes twinkled with laughter as he dropped the words and the chatter at the table stalled for just a moment. Maddie turned wide eyes to him, her lips curling into a smile as she watched him realize what he had just said.

"Hold on..." Collins leaned forward just as the rest of the table erupted in laughter and a smattering of applause.

"Henry Charles..." Maddie shook her head at him.

"Sorry baby," he turned on the charm, his hand sliding to her knee as he leaned closer.

"Get that face away from me," she turned his chin playfully with her fingers.

"Are you two trying?" Kiki's voice dropped low, keeping the conversation at the table.

"Oh God," Maddie moaned into a sigh. "Harry Wales."

"Forgive me?" He lifted his eyebrows to Maddie, focusing only on her as he pulled her hand into his, to his lips for a kiss.

"Would you stop with this?" Maddie rolled her eyes and pinched at his lips. "This sad puppy stuff doesn't work with me."

"Well..." He took a deep breath and pulled his hand into his pocket. "It's a good thing I know what does." Holding out his palm, he offered her a piece of her favorite candy. And despite her very best efforts, it worked.

"Fine," her lips tugged into half a smirk as she plucked the candy from his palm. "I forgive you."

"Yes!" He lifted his hands in the air in victory and, turning back to the table, he very nonchalantly answered all of their questions. "And yes. We're trying."

The laughter, the applause, and the pink to Maddie's cheeks all returned.

"Well, not tonight we aren't," Maddie held up her champagne with a giggle.

Maddie managed to sneak in a few quick questions about Isaiah, about work, before Bishop's father rose to his feet. As Maddie expected, he exuded charm and charisma as he toasted the newlyweds, as he welcomed Ella and her mother to the family, as he asked guests to join him in his well-wishes. Maddie beamed as she clinked her glass against Harry's and took a sip.

And then it was Bishop's turn. Maddie had known Bishop was happy. She had known that he was over the moon to be married to Ella, to be on the road to fatherhood. But she hadn't known that the speech he gave, the way he spoke of it, would move her to tears. But it did. She sniffed at her tears and took the handkerchief Harry offered her with a warm smile. Dabbing at her eyes, she took a deep breath and rose her glass with Bishop and the rest of the room; toasting his new bride. And his new baby.

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True to who Bishop and Ella were, the party went strong and well into the night. Dinner was scrumptious and the cake was amazing and by the time the party was moving into the less inhibited, more dancing part of the evening, Maddie and Harry had both taken in their share of champagne and they were taking full advantage of their friendly, fun-filled table. And when the newlyweds finally made it through their relatives and business associates, when they finally let out a deep breath and joined their favorites, the table burst into applause; hoots and hollers.

"Finally!" Leo sighed, rising to his feet to hug Bishop.

"You look amazing," Khenda kissed Ella's cheeks for the second time that night.

"Oh thank you," Ella smiled sweetly, slipping into the chair Bishop had pulled out for her.

"It's been a lovely night," Maddie looked around. "How are things going?"

"Good," Ella nodded. "I mean...Bishop's mother still hates me but..."

"She doesn't hate you," Bishop interrupted; his hands rubbing over her shoulders. "She's just still in shock."

"She didn't expect you to get married?" Maddie looked up to Bishop.

"I think she expected me to be the Duchess of Sussex," he tossed a wink and smirk in her direction.

"Ha!" Maddie lead the rounds of laughter. "Well I think you missed that train."

"I think so too," Harry nodded emphatically and looked up to his best friend. "What do you say? Whiskey for the groom?"

"God yes," Bishop nodded but held up a finger. "But first, I have one last thing I need to do..." His hands rested on the back of Harry's chair as he leaned down between him and Maddie. "Listen. You can say no, I promise. But there are some people who would like to meet you."

Maddie snickered into her glass and nudged Harry. "Go ahead Captain. Your fans are waiting." Harry smirked as he shook his head to her; his cheeks already pink.

"Sure," he shrugged. "Why not."

"No, no," Bishop shook his head with a smirk. "They don't want to meet him. They want to meet you." He turned his attention to Maddie whose eyes went wide in surprise.

"Me?" A hand fell to her chest as she absorbed it.

"You." Bishop repeated as Harry laughed to himself; loving the look on her face.

"Who?" She was shocked as she glanced around. "Who could possibly want to meet me?"

"Some men I do business with in Peru."

"Okay. Hold on," Harry snapped to attention, his hand raising into the conversation as Maddie giggled just a bit.

"Nice," Ella snickered, nodding to the look on Harry's face.

"Well I suppose I could meet them." Maddie smiled and held her drink out to Harry, mildly amused at the look on his face. "Would you mind watching my drink?" She asked; very well aware of the laughter coming from around the table.

"Where are these men?" Harry looked to Bishop who was already laughing at his best friend.

"Aw come on man. You've been meeting sorority sisters for years. Can't let your wife meet some of my business associates?" His eyes twinkled as he poked at Harry.

"Yeah Harry," Maddie teased. "You've been meeting sorority sisters for years."

"Wait a second..." Harry shook his head.

"Here..." Bishop pulled his flask from his pocket and slipped it into Harry's patting his chest as he pulled his hands back and rose to his feet. "I'll just leave this with you..." He turned to Maddie then, offering his hand. "Your Royal Highness?"

"Thank you," Maddie smiled and winked at Harry, her hand sliding into Bishop's as she stood. "I'll be right back baby."

"Have fun," Ella winked at the two of them, her eyes settling on Harry's flushed red face and narrowed eyes. It really was hilarious to watch the tables turn.

"That was amazing to watch," Bishop smiled at Maddie as she walked along with him; her arm tucked into the bend of his.

"Yeah?" Maddie lifted her eyebrows feeling an unexpected desire to not let Bishop get one up on her husband. Remembering their walk through the receiving line, she grinned. "Oh, you know...I've been meaning to tell you. Your father is just...an incredibly handsome man."

"Yeah?" Bishop smirked. "Did you think this happened on accident?" He waved a hand over his body and Maddie rolled her eyes with a laugh.

"And your mother..." She sucked in a breath and shook her head; biting back the wicked smile on her lips. "Flat out gorgeous."

"Alright." Bishop drew to a stop. "Now he told you to say that didn't he?"

"Come on Bishop," Maddie laughed and tugged at the crook of his arm. "Let's go meet your associates from Peru."

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Her cheeks warm from the champagne and her spirits high from the levity of the evening, Maddie snuck up on Harry. It had been a while since she had left their table to meet Bishop's associates, since Harry had 'inconspicuously' joined them no long after. They had continued on with the party; drinking and dancing and laughing as the spirit held up well into the night.

Maddie had been out on the dance floor with Collins and while he went to secure them more drinks, she went back to their group of friends; now sitting around a comfortable sitting area with couches and tables and plenty of space to have a conversation. Harry was sitting back on a long, ornate sofa speaking to Khenda about something that had them both laughing animatedly. Maddie watched from her spot off to the side for a moment before stepping into the room. Moving quietly behind the sofa, her fingers tickled at the line on his neck where skin met hair. He was quick to reaction, his hand flying up and catching her fingers as his head whipped around. Seeing her he softened and Maddie giggled.

"A little jumpy there Captain," she smiled down at him as he pulled her fingers further into his hand.

"Where have you been?" He kissed the tips of her fingers and tugged; wanting her to come around and join them.

"Dancing..." She sighed, moving around the corner of the couch; her hand still tucked in his as she moved.

"With?" Harry grinned up at her, pulling her into his lap and wrapping her up in him.

"Anyone who was willing," she sighed dramatically; bringing a roll to Harry's eyes and a laugh to Khenda's lips.

"Well with those feet..." Harry began.

"Watch it," she warned, wrapping her arms around his shoulders and leaning in to kiss him. "I was dancing with Collins..." She sighed. "And he didn't seem to mind my feet."

"Well he's a bigger man than I," Harry teased, leaning his lips to her shoulder.

"He is," Maddie nodded.

"Did you leave him on the dance floor?" Khenda glanced around.

"He's bringing us more drinks," Maddie explained and turned to include their friend in the conversation. "What were you two talking about?" She watched as Harry turned a smile to Khenda, watched as Khenda met his wide nostalgic grin with one of her own.

"I was just telling your husband what a great friend I've been to him." Khenda leaned forward a bit, nudging Harry with her elbow as she sipped from her drink.

"And I was agreeing wholeheartedly," Harry winked to Khenda and tightened his hold on Maddie.

"You were reminiscing," Maddie concluded, a wistful sort of haze settling in her eyes and they all embraced the warmth in the room; the love between them.

"Do you remember the night you gave Harry the tour?" Khenda looked to Maddie.

"I do," she nodded, her lips pulling wide; remembering their first conversation.

"And I had something I needed to take care of so I asked you to take him around..."

"Yes," Maddie's mind shifted as she pulled up those moments from so many years ago.

"The something I had to take care of..." Khenda laughed into her glass; eyes flashing with a devious sort of sparkle.

"No," Maddie shook her head, understanding washing over her.

"Yeah..." Khenda sighed. "I had nothing to take care of."

"You're such an ass," Maddie nudged her friend with her shoe. "A tricky, sneaky, manipulative ass."

"I know!" Khenda laughed. "What can I say? I was trying to help a friend out."

"By pimping out another?" Maddie raised her eyebrows.

"Hey!" Harry cut in with a smug look on his face. "That's my wife you're talking about."

"And you!" Maddie tightened her arm around his shoulder. "Is it impossible for you to work alone?"

"Hey!" He called out, his hands sliding up and over her curves as he tilted her closer and lowered his voice. "I would be happy to work you over alone right now."

"Harry!" Maddie was only half shocked at his lines.

"Oh God I didn't need to hear that," Khenda groaned, looking away.

"Hey, hey," Collins spoke up as he approached them; drinks in hand, Bishop and Ella next to him. "What's so funny?"

"We're just..." Maddie shook her head with a grin. "We're reminiscing. Join us?" She glanced to the three of them.

"In hearing hilarious and embarrassing tales about all of you?" Bishop lifted his eyebrows with a smirk. "Absolutely I'll join." He took a seat on a small sofa, Ella tucking in next to him with a tired sigh.

"You okay?" Maddie nodded to her best friend.

"Yes," Ella smiled softly, her hand rubbing over the non-existent bump on her lower tummy. "I've been having just a little bit of cramping..." Maddie felt Harry sit up underneath her; his humor fading for just a beat as he grew concerned.

"Cramping?" He leaned around Maddie to look at Ella. "That can't be good."

"It's fine," Ella assured him; touched by his worry. "It's normal to have some cramping."

"It is," Khenda nodded, her hand reaching out to pat Harry's arm in the motherly way she had with him. "But you're awfully cute right now."

"Easy," Harry turned eyes to Khenda.

"I'll keep an eye on it," Ella sighed again, resting her head against Bishop's arm as his hand found home on her knee. "If it gets any worse, I'll go in. Otherwise...it's fine. Now come on..." She waved her hand around the group. "We were reminiscing."

"Ah yes," Maddie held Ella's eyes for just a moment before she blinked and followed suit; changing the subject. "We were just talking about how I was basically tricked into dating Harry."

"That's some amazing wizardry my friend," Bishop nodded to Harry who laughed.

"You know what I'll never forget, as long as I live?" Ella smiled sleepily at Maddie. "The way you just straight up ordered him to unload that truck."

"Ha!" Maddie laughed. "I'll never forget the look on your face when I did."

"Me neither," Harry joined in.

"Oh!" Maddie leaned forward, reaching for her drink as she looked to Ella. "Remember the night we met Bishop?" Both women giggled as Bishop's eyebrows shot up.

"I do!" He exhaled sharply. "Maddie took all the money I had!"

"Yes she did," Ella nudged her husband in the side.

"But you took my heart," Bishop turned sweet eyes to her and the group groaned; Maddie nearly choking on her champagne as she giggled.

"Oh please!" Ella snickered with a roll of her eyes. "We both know the part of you that was interested in me that night wasn't your heart."

"Ouch," Collins chuckled.

"Eh," Bishop shrugged. "It's true. But soon thereafter..." He leaned to kiss her and, feeling sentimental and in love, she kissed him back.

"I have one..." Khenda's eyes sparkled. "Do you remember when Collins tried to teach you two to dance?" Khenda waved her finger between Maddie and Ella as everyone around them snickered; even Collins.

"That must have been a disaster," Harry chuckled, swatting at Maddie's hand as she moved to smack him.

"It was," Collins nodded, laughing into his glass.

"I remember..." Ella's eyes were shining as she spoke; her heart so full of love and family. "You know what else I remember? I remember when he pulled us from a pile of rubble." And though the laughter faded, the smiles did not; a warm, love flowing through the group.

Maddie was the first to move; stepping from Harry's embrace to go to Collins. With a strong, loving hug, she kissed him; smack on the lips.

And then came Ella; doing just the same.

And then Harry.

And before anyone could start to cry at the memory, at the intensity in the group—they were laughing.

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"Look at you..." Maddie smiled up at Harry. "Dancing with your wife..." She sighed and leaned closer in his arms; the slow music moving them together. "You're such a brave soul."

"A hero, really," Harry chuckled, tightening his hold on her; his hands sliding over her hips, across her ass in a way that had well documented on their trip to the US.

"Maybe the Queen will award you a medal," Maddie winked, her fingers at his neck slipping up into his hair. "Did you want me to talk to her for you? I'm sleeping with her grandson."

"That would be lovely," Harry's lips graced over hers. "Thank you."

"You're welcome," Maddie's voice grew softer as she closed her eyes; tipping her lips to his again.

And she should have known better. She should have known better than to open her mouth to him, than to wrap her arms tighter, than to sigh into his mouth. They were on a dance floor, in front of everyone. But she couldn't help herself. And, from the way he was responding to her, he couldn't either. So they both took steps, small fractions of steps, towards the other; wanting to be closer.

"Madeline..." He groaned as their lips pulled apart.

"Yes Captain?" She looked up to him through lowered lashes, her pink lips swollen from his.

"Follow me upstairs?" One reddish eyebrow peaked as he propositioned his wife; his hands sliding over her body as they continued to sway together.

"Henry Charles..." Though her voice carried that tone, though her eyes narrowed, there was something in her smile, something in her stance that didn't quite match her protest.

"Come on Maddie..." He tugged her closer; his voice growing conspiring. "I know you want to."

"I really really do," she sighed, biting at her bottom lip; her eyes scanning over him appreciatively. The champagne had gone to her head.

"And you know..." He smirked. "They did it at ours."

"You make an excellent point." Maddie took that in, considering it for a paused moment in his arms before she made a decision. "Okay. I'm in. Where do you want to do this?"

"Follow me," Harry dropped his hold on her and reached for her hand, leading his tipsy, flushed wife from the dance floor, down a corridor and up a set of stairs towards the back of the house. Maddie giggled as she held tight to his hand, her eyes adjusting to the darkness upstairs.

"Where are we going?" She whispered to him as they hurried along.

"I don't know," he whispered back. "Bishop's old room?"

"That's...a little creepy," Maddie admitted.

"You're right," he agreed, glancing at the door to his left. "The gift wrapping room?"

"There's a gift wrapping room?" Maddie's eyes went wide. "I want to see."

"You know this isn't a tour," Harry's voice dropped low.

"Well that's a good thing because your tour-guiding skills are tragically lacking."

"Ha," Harry laughed, pulling her with him to another door. "Well, lucky for you I have an abundance of skills in other areas." His hands found her waist as she stepped up to him.

"Is that so?" She grinned.

"It absolutely is," Harry grinned in return, backing her up against the wall as his lips found hers again. Their kisses were hot and deep—too hot and too deep for a semi-public place—but neither of them had the wherewithal to pull away. "God Maddie..." He breathed against her skin. "You have no idea how much I want you right now."

"Hmm..." Her grin turned wicked as her hand reached between them, rubbing over the sizable bulge in his pants. "I have a little idea."

"Little?" He smirked. "Check again."

"Ha..." Maddie chuckled as his lips moved to her neck, blazing hot on her skin. "You're so cocky..."

"You love it," he breathed into her ear. "Tell me you haven't been wanting to..."

"Since we arrived," Maddie cut in, answering his question. "Since Bishop told us to take our pick..." She tugged his face from her neck and pulled his lips back to hers. "I nearly handed you my panties an hour ago when..." Harry's lips covered hers again, unsure if he could hear the end of that sentence and not take her there in the hallway.

"Jesus Madeline..." He groaned, his hand reaching for the doorknob just to his left. "You're..."

"Naughty?" Maddie offered with a sweet, innocent bite to her lip. "I'm naughty?"

"Yes..." He exhaled; breathless and exhaustively turned on. "Yes you are." With a turn to the knob and a push to the door, Harry opened up the guest room he used to occupy when he would stay with the Bishops. His eyes grew dark, his expression serious, as he took in his wife. "After you."

"Thank you," she took a breath, running her fingers down the center of his chest before she turned; stepping out of his arms and towards the room.

And as Harry followed her in, he didn't even think twice about reaching out with his hand and smacking her round, amazing ass.

Maddie gasped, then giggled.

And Harry locked the door.

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

Sneaking back into the party was a breeze; it was late into the night and nearly everyone was tipsy and happy and enjoying the lavish evening to its absolute fullest—to its absolute end. Maddie held tight to Harry's hand, smiling contently as they slipped back into the room; nearly unnoticed.

"Where have you two been?" Sean looked up from his seat at the table with a loose tie and an even looser smile.

Feeling punchy, Maddie shrugged and bit back a smirk. "Making babies." Leo howled out into the room as Kiki giggled.

"Jesus!" Collins choked on his drink as everyone burst into laughter. "Did you really need to say that?"

"What?" Maddie's eyes went big and innocent as Harry shook his head, cheeky grin in place as he pulled out a chair for her. "Is that inappropriate?"

"Where were you really?" Bishop asked, dismissing Maddie's words.

Maddie giggled as she looked around the table seeing that nearly everyone assumed she was kidding; everyone except for Ella whose sober gaze was fixed on her. With the slightest of winks to her best friend, Maddie smiled. "We went for some fresh air."

"Was it cold?" Ella asked; her eyes narrowed playfully, the conversation flowing silently between them.

"A little bit," Maddie nodded and broke eye contact; needing to pull away from the back and forth before she fell apart in laughter. She loved that nobody believed her initial blunt honesty; loved even more that Ella did. She knew her so well. "Hey Bishop..." Maddie moved the conversation.

"Your Royal Highness?" He looked to her through hazy eyes.

"It's the end of the night..." She looked around and leaned closer. "Tell me. Is there a pool around this place?"

"Ahhh..." Bishop's face brightened as he sat up; his grin set on her. "See. I knew there was a reason I kept you around."

"You?" Harry laughed, leaning to glare at his best friend. "There's a reason you kept her around?"

"It's like you've been a part of the group forever," Bishop kept his attention on Maddie, holding his hand up to Harry.

"It feels like that for me sometimes too," she tilted her head to the side as the group laughed.

"Come on..." Bishop tore his eyes from hers and rose to his feet; his hand extending to his new wife. "It's time."

"For?" Khenda raised her eyebrows; confused as everyone around her seemed to understand, rising to their feet as though they were headed somewhere.

Bishop's voice was solemn, resolute as he smiled to Khenda and answered her question in two words. "The Pool."

When Maddie was younger, she had a music box. It was small and beautiful and meticulously painted and designed. The song it played had been light and sweet and whenever she heard it, she would smile and drift off to a place; a place where the small paper people were real. She remembered the way her fantastical brain would paint elaborate pictures of people dancing and laughing and enjoying life.

And that night, as this group of friends slipped from the reception and made their way in a huddled mass towards the outdoor, heated pool, she remembered that music box. She could see the beauty in the way Bishop cared for Ella, taking the stairs instead of plunging in. She could see the laughter in the way Collins didn't even think twice before wrapping Khenda in the biggest of hugs, the way he didn't even bat an eye before he hauled the two of them into the pool with everyone else. She could see the light, sweet way her friends dove into this carefree moment of levity...blissfully happy each own their own accord. She could feel the same sort of fantastical musings her brain had imagined as a child—playing out in front of her, around her; within her.

"Are you coming in love?" Harry called to her from the pool's edge.

"I don't know," Maddie shrugged with a wide, shining smile as she kicked her shoes to the side. "I'm not sure I know how to swim."

"Yeah?" He arched an eyebrow and beamed as he watched her. "It's okay. I'll have you." He was so damn cute, the way he smiled at her, the way he was looking at her, that what she really wanted to do was take him back upstairs and try round two. But instead she held her hand out to him and let him pull her into the pool.

Diving head first into the party.

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

Three weeks later

"Okay..." Maddie watched as Harry stretched out another long yawn from his end of the couch. "That's the fifth time you've done that. You should go to bed. You have an early morning..." She closed her book and sat it to the side; her toes wiggling in his lap. It was late on a Sunday night and the last three weeks had been pretty busy for both of them and things didn't look like they were going to slow down anytime soon. They were gearing up for Remembrance Day and then diving into the holidays and all that came with them.

"I know," Harry's head rocked back against the couch before he took a breath and turned a smile to her. "What about you? What's on your agenda?"

"Mmmm..." She thought for a moment, warming as he moved closer to her; her legs sliding over his lap. "I am going to have breakfast with Kate before her session with Gerald."

"Ah yes..." Harry's face grew serious. "How is she doing?"

"She's okay," Maddie's smile was small, reassuring. "She's working through it and that's what's important. She's showing up, she's giving it her best...that's all we can ask." Maddie rubbed his shoulder as he moved closer still. "I know you're worried but she really is doing better. I mean...it doesn't help that the press is all over her right now..."

"I know," Harry groaned, his hand rubbing at the back of his neck; clearly stressed by it all. "Will's up in arms about it."

"Yeah?" Maddie lifted her eyebrows.

"Yeah..." Harry sighed, his hands moving to her thighs, now draped over his lap. "He told me last week that if it didn't stop, he'd remove himself from the line."

"The line?"

"Of succession," Harry's eyes met hers. "He would hand it all over and move to the Bahamas with Kate and Arthur."

"Oh..." Maddie exhaled, understanding. "Was he serious?"

"Only a little bit," Harry shrugged, amusement dancing into his eyes. "Why? Does it make you nervous? The thought of being my Queen?" His fingers ran up and down her legs; soothing and warm.

"No," she smiled simply. "I just worry about them too."

"He'll be okay," Harry assured her. "If she's going to be okay, he's going to be okay."

"Well I think she's going to be okay," Maddie nodded.

"Well there we go." He took a deep breath. "What's next? After breakfast?"

"I'm going to the doctor with Ella."

"You are?" He turned concerned eyes to her. "Is she okay?"

"I think so," Maddie nodded thoughtfully. "She's still having cramping and she's finally decided to check it out. I think she's a little nervous..."

"Sure."

"So I offered to go with her."

"You're a good friend," he reached for her hand, playing absentmindedly with her fingers.

"Yeah well...I love her to pieces."

"I know you do," Harry pulled at her hand then, wanting her closer; wanting to snuggle into her and fall asleep there on the couch. "Are you sleepy at all? Are you coming to bed with me?"

"Nah," she shook her head. "I'm going to finish this chapter and call Kyle back. He's called about twelve times since noon."

"Twelve?" He chuckled.

"Well maybe twice but..."

"You'll be awhile," Harry finished for her; tired smirk in place.

"A little while, yes," she moved then, pulling her legs from his lap so she could sit up and nuzzle in next to him. "Is that okay?"

"Of course. Come here..." Harry wrapped his arms around her, hugging her tight as his lips bent to hers. "Kiss me when you come to bed?"

"Absolutely," she nodded, nudging his nose with hers before she kissed him again.

"Good night," Harry kissed her once more and regrettably moved from the couch.

"Good night..." Maddie watched him as he walked away; her teeth biting into her lip as she debated for the hundredth time that day if she was going to talk to him about the thing that had been on her mind for a while. She had started to think about it the night before and then when she had woken up that morning...she couldn't shake it. She had tried. She had tried to think about other things but this just kept on nagging at her and... "Harry!" She blurted it out before she could stop herself.

"Yeah?" He turned around, nearly through the doorway and smiled at the look on her face. "You okay?"

"Yes..." She let out a breath she hadn't realized she was holding; long and slow. "There's one more thing I want to talk to you about."

"Shoot," he nodded to her; growing more and more curious as she grew more and more smiley.

"Okay. Well." She took a breath and clapped her hands together in her lap. "You know how we've been having lots of sex...of the unprotected variety?"

"Yes..." The corner of his mouth tugged up, humored at her choice of words.

"And you know how...we've been trying to have a baby?" The smirk faded from his face just a bit and had he been a rabbit, Maddie was certain his ears would have perked up, his nose would have twitched.

"Madeline," his tone grew serious.

"I just want to know..." She sighed and rolled her eyes. "At some point I'm going to be late, someday I'm not going to get my period and...I'm wondering at what point you would like to...know that. I mean...do you want me to tell you when I'm one day late or do you want me to wait a week and..."

"Yes," Harry cut in, stepping back into the room. "Yes. To the one day question. I want to..." He sucked in a breath and his lips twitched up. "If you know, I want to know...even if it's just one day."

Maddie couldn't help but giggle at how serious he was; how excited. "Okay. But you know that it's not entirely uncommon to be a day or two late and..."

"I don't care," he shook his head, looking down at her with a warm expression. "I want to be in on all of it."

"Okay," Maddie nodded, her eyes wide and her smile bright. "Okay." And then Harry watched as something happened. He watched as her eyes shifted from his, as her bottom lip pulled into her teeth and his heart skipped in his chest.

"Maddie." His voice held new warning. "Madeline...are you...are you late?"

"Oh come on," she waved her hands in the air dismissively. "Don't be ridiculous. I was just asking a question and..."

"Maddie..." He moved closer. "Don't play with me. Are you late right now?"

"No," she shook her head, her grin stretching and he could see she was holding something back; something that made her giddy. And then she whispered. "But I will be tomorrow."

"What?!" His eyes flew wide.

"I may be tomorrow." She was quick to the correction but it was too late. He was already at her side, already sitting next to her, already pulling her face in his hands, already kissing her with the same sort of excitement she had been fighting all day. "Harry! I could start tonight! I could start in a few days...we know nothing..."

"I don't care," he shook his head, his smile the most brilliant thing she had seen. "Oh wow...I don't care." He kissed her again.

"You're insane," she laughed as she hugged him tight.

"Yes," he nodded. "Yes. And I want to know. I want to know...everything..." He held her face in his hands, meeting her eyes in a moment of tenderness. "Everything."

"Okay," she nodded, blinking back some unexpected tears. "I'll tell you everything." She promised; swore. And then she kissed him again. "Okay Captain. Go to sleep. I'll see you in the morning."

"Ah...I'm not even tired now."

"Yes you are," she laughed.

"Wow..." Harry let his hands fall from her face, running down her arms to her hands. With another yawn, he pulled her hands up and kissed them both before he nodded. "Okay. Okay. I'm going but...if anything happens..."

"Like what?" She snickered.

"Anything," he continued. "You wake me up."

"You got it," she agreed.

"Good night love." His hand fell over his heart as he looked to her; nothing but love in the room.

"Good night," Maddie held his gaze for a beat longer and then she watched as he slipped out of the room. And she swore she could hear him skipping up the stairs. With a wide, warm, happy laugh, she settled back into the couch and reached for her book.

Just a few more pages.

A few pages that turned into another chapter.

That turned into two hours.

And before she knew it, time had gotten away from her. As Maddie stood up to stretch her legs, her arms, her neck, she glanced at the clock and was genuinely shocked. She had been reading much longer than she had planned and as a yawn pushed from her lips, her phone rang out into the room.

Reaching for it, she glanced at the screen and a smile pulled at her lips; happy, content.

"Well hello there..." She pressed the phone to her ear and sank to the couch.

When Maddie was younger, she had this music box. It was beautiful and lovely and luxurious and soft and sweet and striking and every time she thought of it as an adult, she seemed to only remember all the idyllic daydreams it had brought to her childlike mind.

What she had forgotten, what must have faded over time, was that occasionally, as the music box aged and grew dusty, the heavy duty spring would malfunction. It would recoil and snap back, bringing a loud whack of a noise and blinding pain to any fingers in its path.

And the people; the fancy, intricately painted people, would fall over and flutter to the ground.

"Wait." Maddie's face went stark white at the words on the other end of the phone. "No...nonono. Wait." She shook her head; her eyes welling instantly, her throat closing up. She couldn't breathe. She could barely see. And the ringing in her ears made it nearly impossible to hear the voice on the other end of the line. "But...but...I just...I was going to...what do you mean...she's...No. She can't be..." She gulped as her eyes gave and the tears began to slide down her cheeks. And the world around her changed. "She can't be dead."