...otays. So I lied. I updated this faster than I thought, but the writing kinda flowed on this one.

I dedicated this to Roisin, because she's amazing and gifted us with updates. Also just because she's one of the most amazing people I've had the pleasure of conversing with :)

Enjoy! Please vote and comment all

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Chapter 16

When Ian walked back into the room with a glass of water, I wasn’t sure what was running through his mind. He just looked utterly confused. As he closed the door he met my gaze and cleared his throat. He came over and handed me the glass, sitting next to me and watching his feet.

“Ian,” I started, sitting up. “What exactly is this?”

“Water?” He said, confused. I couldn’t help it. I laughed.

“No! That’s not what I meant.” I giggled and he joined me.

“Oh, right.” He let out a sigh. “Right.”

“Ian,” I said again, but he interrupted me.

“Let’s not talk about this now. You need your rest, and I told one of the servants to bring you some medicine.”

“Fine. But promise me we’ll talk.” I said, giving him a serious look. He gave me a small smile and leaned forward, planting a soft kiss on my forehead.

“Promise.” He whispered before leaving the room.

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Two days later, it was the day of the benefit and I was still miserable and sick. Ian and I hadn’t had any alone time to actually speak. I had the sneaking suspicion he had done it on purpose. He always seemed to be in some kind of lesson, out with Amelia, or in some important meeting with his father. It didn’t really matter seeing as Aunt Patty and I were both just as busy making sure everything was in order for the benefit.

I was just getting out of the shower right before the benefit. When I came out I saw Aunt Patty waiting for me on my bed. I raised a brow, questioningly. She picked up a bottle in her hand which I recognized as prescription medicine. I let out a sigh of relief and quickly took a swig. “Oh…darling, I don’t think that’s how you take that…”

“I know, but I’m not concerned with dosage size at this very moment.” I took another swig and my aunt grabbed it from me.

“Stop that!” She laughed. “Okay, now finish getting ready. Christine is with her stylist right now and Ian is almost ready. Amelia is meeting us here soon.”

“I don’t care what she’s doing…” I grumbled under my breath but my aunt heard me.

“Lana…”

“Hey, I’m respectful, I keep tabs on her, and I do everything I’m supposed to do. I don’t have to like her.” I said with a shrug. It was okay to be honest with this with my aunt. She knew I wouldn’t let it jeopardize my job.

“She does act like she has a stick up her arse, doesn’t she?” Aunt Patty commented and I burst into laughter.

“Have I told you I love you lately, auntie?” I said, going over to my vanity to start on my makeup.

“What are you doing with your hair?” She asked me and I shrugged.

“I dunno. I usually have Christine, but she’s a bit busy at the moment.” I sniffled again, but was thankful that I could already feel relief of the pressure from the medicine.

“Here, let me do it.” She went to pull out my curling iron and didn’t waste time in styling. “Your mother called earlier.” Aunt Patty said quietly as she worked with my hair. I gulped.

“Oh?” I had called my mother everyday right after getting my job, keeping her up to date on everything. But now, it had been over two weeks since I had said anything to her.

“Yes, she was worried because you haven’t spoken to her. She’s coming up to visit you next week, and I don’t want you to try and weasel out of it.”

“Why would I do that?” I huffed.

“She figured you would be angry for her not coming to your graduation.”

“Angry? No, I’m not angry. I was angry. Now I’m indifferent. I should’ve expected it though, seeing as she also missed my birthday, Christmas and New Years with me for her husband.” I said bitterly.

“She’s really very sorry for all that, Lana. I think she wants to talk to you, about everything. At least give her a chance.” Aunt Patty soothed. “You two were always so close before this new marriage. I don’t think you should let it get between you.”

“I didn’t. She did. Let’s talk about something else.”

“Once you promise me you’ll meet with her when she visits.”

I grunted and let out a breath through my clenched teeth. “I’ll think about it.”

It was unfortunate that I took so long, because by the time I was ready, the entire royal family had already left with my aunt. I started down the stairs and heard a gasp from the bottom. “You look like a goddess tonight,” Chad said, holding his hand out to help me the rest of the way down.

“Thank you,” I said, feeling my cheeks heat up. “Though, I’d have to credit my rosy cheeks and glow to the combination of being sick and excessive amounts of cold medicine. I probably shouldn’t add alcohol to the mix.” I laughed and Chad shook his head, taking my arm.

“I don’t think alcohol would be a good idea.” Chad agreed as he led me out to the car and we headed to the benefit.

I couldn’t hide my smile when I saw Ian’s expression as I walked down the entryway steps. I was glad I could make an entrance. Chad held one of my gloved hands as we walked down the steps toward the rest of the crowd. There was an orchestra playing and circling couples, dancing in the ballroom. I felt like Cinderella, taking a deep breath as we made the final steps. I was instantly met by Queen Cassandra and King Henry. I sucked in another breath from shock but relaxed when they both smiled at me. “I really was never able to apologize about my rudeness and haste when we last spoke. I would not have fired you. I was just angry.” He explained, giving me a kind glance.

“It’s really all right, your majesty. I understand.”

Chad and I continued on to the tables and I shook my head, thinking of how much each seat cost to be here. The royal family had covered the fee for my aunt, Chad, and myself, thankfully. I suppose it was a good enough cause, but it was difficult to wrap my mind around it.

We headed to our table shared with Ian and Christine. Aunt Patty was off dancing with someone. She was always with someone new; I could never keep track of her boyfriends. Ian stood when I approached and we shared a glance before Chad pulled out my chair for me and I sat.

“You look beautiful,” Christine said with a big smile.

“She always looks beautiful.” Chad added, kissing my cheek. I saw Ian tense and I turned instead to my plate as I was served.

“So, are you feeling better today?” Christine asked me and I nodded, lying. The sickness hadn’t improved at all. Thankfully, I had heavily medicated myself before heading over so I was no longer coughing or sniffling. However, I looked over at Ian and noticed his pallid appearance. He looked like he was coming down with what I had too, which made perfect sense since we had kissed only two nights ago when my cold was worst. I hadn’t let Chad kiss me in fear of getting him sick, but I hadn’t even thought of the possibility of Ian getting sick…

“You really shouldn’t come to these things if you’re sick. You might be contagious and get the rest of us sick.” Amelia snipped, putting her napkin over her nose.

“Then maybe you should stay home all the time Amelia. You never know when someone will catch your snobby bitch disease.” Came Fiore’s voice from behind us and I turned giving her a warning look. “Oh wait, that’s almost everyone here. Never mind. It’s too late.” I shook my head at her and she laughed. “Let’s dance! Chad!” She grabbed his arm and pulled him out to the dance floor and they started waltzing around, making me laugh.

“Ian, are you just going to let her speak to me that way?” Amelia asked him, giving him an angry look. He gave her a thoughtful look.

“She’s probably drunk. You should really be the bigger person and excuse her imprudence.” Ian explained, taking her hand in his and stroking it lightly. I cleared my throat and Ian met my eyes. He removed his hands from Amelia’s and started on his plate. I was surprised, but he seemed like he was nervous about something.

Suddenly, I felt Chad hand on my shoulder. “May I have this dance milady?” He asked, his hand outstretched to me. I laughed, taking it.

“What happened to Fiore?”

“She twirled off…so I’m not entirely sure.”

“Why don’t we all head to the dance floor? Sitting here is a bit dull.” Christine offered, standing. We started off and suddenly met up with Juliet. I was very happy with my choice of dress, she looked stunning in it. Beside her I recognized Raleigh, a young noble and Xavier wasn’t too far behind coming to meet us as well.

“You all look amazing!” Juliet said, excitedly. She nudged me and said, “That color looks great on you and I must say, he’s very pretty. Good job!” She added in a whisper, indicating Chad. I felt myself blush as she went over to hug Christine.

“You are gorgeous girl!” She said to Christine who smiled.

“So are you. You look fantastic! Raleigh, how are you?” She asked and he gave a half bow.

“I’m great your highness. How are you tonight?”

“Very well, actually.”

Juliet then pulled me aside, making me jump. “That boy looks like he’s straight out of GQ. I approve.” She said with a wink and a thumbs up. I gave a nervous laugh, a little confused. I wonder how she’d feel if she knew I didn’t really want to be with him and that I was instead setting my sights on her cousin…

“Um, thanks?” I replied.

“What? Did I say something wrong?”

“No, you didn’t say something wrong.” I laughed. “Just shocking.”

“Ian, I missed you!” She suddenly ran from me to Ian. “You haven’t been going pond hopping without me, have you?” I rolled my eyes at the memory of their gallivanting and Ian gave a weary smile.

“Let’s not do that again. It wasn’t a very good idea.”

“But, it was fun!”

“Yes Juliet. I had fun, but now I’m back to being Prince Ian, the heir to the throne.” He replied, and I caught the grim expression that crossed his features.

“Aww, okay. I won’t push you in the pond tonight.”

“I’d appreciate that.” Ian laughed.

Juliet continued her hugging of everyone until Amelia nudged Ian. We both looked at her confused as she cleared her throat. “Yes dear?” Ian grumbled, through clenched teeth.

“Introduce me.” She snapped and I stifled a laugh. I wondered if Amelia was really serious or not. Did she not remember meeting Juliet? It was definitely a memorable event.

“We’ve met.” Juliet snapped, definitely finding this an insult. I didn’t blame her, I would’ve too. “Remember shopping? Ian and Lana? Lots of trouble?”

Recognition suddenly showed on Amelia’s face and she scowled. “So, you’re the reason I couldn’t see my Ian then?”

“Technically that was the king, but basically.” Juliet replied with a shrug.

“I’ve changed my mind Ian, I don’t want to be introduced.” I looked away to hide my smile. She wasn’t usually so thick, but this was genuinely amusing.

“You idiot. We’ve already been introduced. Does the hairspray keep your head in that shape too? Because you don’t seem to have a brain in there.” Juliet snapped and I saw Amelia’s face redden in anger. Thankfully, Xavier took Juliet’s arm giving me a glance. I winked at him with a little eyebrow wag and he ignored me.

“Please excuse her. She’s had too much to drink.” Xavier explained, tugging her away from us.

“She’s definitely interesting.” Chad said.

“She thinks you’re pretty.” I laughed and he cocked his head to the side with a smile.

“What?”

“She said you’re pretty.” I repeated and the group laughed.

“Well, Chad. You are kind of pretty.” Ian teased going to pinch his cheek and Chad shoved his hand away.

“Not funny, Ian.” Chad snapped, but he was laughing so I knew he wasn’t upset.

Chad then led me out to dance. He was superb. I wasn’t bad, but I wasn’t as graceful as I wish I was. Luckily, he was great at leading. Christine came over and cut in after a moment, saying she wanted a dance with someone who wasn’t trying to seduce her. I laughed and headed off but felt as my hand was grabbed.

“May I?” Ian asked, and I smiled.

“What about Amelia?” I gave him a serious look.

“She’s taking an important phone call. Will you dance with me, Lana?” He asked again and I looked down with a laugh. I joined hands with him and walked back to the other spinning couples, where he put one hand on my waist and pulled me close.

“You owe me an explanation. A really good one.” I said and he looked nervous again.

“I know. I’ve taken this time to really think about what I wanted to say.”

“And what have you come up with?”

“Absolutely nothing.” He grumbled. I laughed and he shook his head. “It’s not funny. Think about how much trouble the two of us could get in.”

“Maybe we shouldn’t speak about this here.” I pointed out, as I saw other couples eavesdropping suspiciously.

“Of course.” We stopped dancing, and he took my hand to lead me outside to the gardens. I glanced back to see Chad dancing with Juliet and I smiled. At least he’d be distracted for a moment.

We walked deep into the gardens to avoid anyone overhearing us and he sat me down on a bench. We were both silent for a moment and I felt Ian take my hand and stroke it gently. “You know, I meant it when I said I couldn’t imagine my life without you. But is it a terrible thing that I wish you hadn’t come into my life?”

“What?” I asked, shocked. I felt as if I had been shot in the chest, and my stomach suddenly was full of bricks.

“Don’t take that the wrong way, Lana.” He held my hand tighter and turned to face me. “If you hadn’t come into my life, I would be resigned to the fact that Amelia and I would get married and that my life has to follow a certain route. But I can’t do that Lana. I can’t do that when all I can think about…is you.”

I looked down at my feet and felt like I was floating. “Ian,”

“Do you even remotely feel the same way about me?” I looked up at him, to see his pleading expression. It was the first time I’d seen him truly vulnerable, his eyes watching me expectantly.

“Of course I do.” I replied, but I shook my head. “But it doesn’t mean anything, Ian! It doesn’t matter how much we care about each other. I’m your advisor and you have a girlfriend. If anyone caught wind of what had happened between the two of us, I can’t even imagine the consequences.”

“Then we won’t let anyone know what happened.”

“Then nothing will have changed, and this conversation has no meaning.” I tried to take my hands back but he held them tight.

“Let me finish.” I looked over at him, determination swimming in his bright blue eyes. He didn’t speak for a moment.

“Maybe I should just leave. I’m sure I could find another job, and ask the king and queen for a recommendation.”

“And what would you tell them as your reasoning for leaving? That the prince is in love with you?” Ian asked, incredulously.

“No. That I’ve fallen in love with their son.” I answered quietly, closing my eyes. I felt his lips touch mine softly and he wrapped his arms around me. He moved down to kiss my neck.

“I want to be with you Lana. Do you trust me?” He whispered in my ear.

“Yes…” I sighed back.

“Good. Because I have an idea. All we would have to do is play it cool for a little while. Then soon, I’ll leave Amelia, and you leave Chad.” Ian’s idea sounded simple enough in words, but I knew it wouldn’t be that easy.

“I can’t believe I’m doing this to him. He’s such a great guy. I feel so terrible doing this…” I groaned into my hands and I felt Ian put his arms around me.

“I know, but knowing Chad he’ll be fine if we explain this all to him ourselves. The rest of the world doesn’t have to know what happened. Only a few trustworthy people.”

“Do you think he’d even begin to forgive us if he knew what had been going on? I’m sorry, Chad may be nice but I don’t think he’ll be that nice.” I said, shaking my head. Ian turned my face to his.

“I love you. Once Chad sees that, I’m sure he’ll understand. It may take a little time, but he will. As for Christine…”

“Christine knows. She knows everything.” I blurted.

“What?” Ian yelped. He gave me a questioning look and I returned it with a sheepish one.

“Well, I needed someone to talk to!” I shrieked, defensively. Ian laughed.

“So that’s one down…”

“Well, two…” I admitted.

“Who else? Please don’t tell me it’s your aunt.” Ian groaned.

“No…Fiore.”

“So you told the one with the biggest mouth?”

“I did not! She guessed!” Both of us met gazes again and started laughing.

“I suppose we have more support than I originally thought. But I can’t imagine hurting Amelia like that.” Ian looked a bit shamefaced.

“How can you like her? She’s so…she’s so…” I clenched my hands into fists and Ian looked confused.

“She’s so what?”

“Don’t tell me you don’t notice how much of a conceited, selfish snob she is.”

“Well, I try to overlook the flaws and pay more attention to better aspects.”

“Such as what, exactly?” This conversation was going nowhere. All that was happening was I was getting a little angry now.

“Well, she can be sweet and smart. She’s also relatively easy to speak to when she’s not going on about herself.”

“Oh, well if she’s so perfect go on and dance with her again.” I snapped. I turned my back to him and Ian rolled his eyes, pulling me close against him.

“No. Want to know why? You’re sweeter, smarter, prettier. Want to know why else?”

“Why?” I asked and he kissed my neck.

“Because I’m in love with you.”

“I love you too…” I said drowsily. The stupid medicine. I had been fighting the sleepiness for a while, but now it was taking control. I suppose taking almost twice the dosage amount hadn’t been a good idea. I felt myself fall back against Ian and start to fall asleep.

“Lana…” He started, a worried tone in his voice.

“Shh…just give me five minutes.” I murmured before I let myself black out.

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I love Lana...just saying. She's that voice in my head...that annoying one...you know what i'm talking about, lol.

So everyone, please vote and comment. I really appreciate them. Let me know what you think about what's happened so far. Do I still have some team chad out there? or is everyone team ian? Also...what do you think I have up my sleeve? Do you think things will really be that easy? MWAHAHAH!

And Guess what. Facebook page in external link :D