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Chapter Text

Evan Buckley was just 19 when he took his sister’s jeep and fled his parents house. He wanted to get away. He needed to. They didn’t care for him anyway so why stay? He hopped from state to state and country to country until he landed in Peru and found himself working as a bartender.

Eddie Diaz was 24 when he booked a one way ticket to Peru, his country’s furthest state, to escape his parents’ nagging. In hindsight it was a dumb idea because they found out where he went in less than a day. The cons of a being a prince and having a diplomatic passport he guessed.

You see Eddie’s parents were the King and Queen of Samericana and he, as the crown prince, was expected to take over the throne eventually with his future wife. Too bad Eddie didn’t want a wife. You guessed it. Crown Prince Edmundo Diaz of Samericana and Europa, the only son and the eldest child of his parents, The King and Queen Consort of Samericana, liked dick. His parents refused to believe that their son was gay and as such kept pushing him to go on dates with women they carefully selected.

He didn’t understand. Their country was one of the most progressive in terms of LGBTQ rights second to only the United States of North America yet his parents refused to accept that their only son was apart of that community.

It was times like this where he wished he was a normal man. No expectations and obligations. No kingdom to rule over. No politics and treaties to honor. Just the freedom to do as he pleased when he pleased and the freedom to fuck whoever he wanted.

His first day in Peru he managed to find a beach bar to drown his sorrows in. That’s where he met Buck.

Buck was reminiscent of a Greek God. His blonde curls and blue eyes could draw any body in. Eddie couldn’t help but ask if he was a model because surely with a body like that he had to be. Buck took the compliment in stride and flirted with him the entire time.

Eddie was hooked.

His days in Peru consisted of surfing, fucking Buck and dodging calls from his parents and their staff. Two months later was when his bubble popped and he was forced back into reality.

Eddie had woken up to men barging into his hotel room in the middle of the night. He recognized them as the security service for the royal family. The last thing he expected was for his mother and father to storm in there and personally tell him that they’d had enough of his antics and to get his shit together. He’d been lucky that Buck had been at work so he didn’t witness the fallout.

He still remembered the anger he felt when he found out they had arranged a marriage for him. His future wife was Shannon and she came from another noble family with similar values. To his parents it was the perfect match.

The anger merged into heartbreak as they gave him an ultimatum and he realized what he had to do.

Marry her or be publicly disowned.

Eddie knew that he had no choice. He was stuck in between a rock and another rock. Even if he was disowned he still wouldn’t be able to live the life he wanted. His citizens would hound him and he’d be scorned. He would have no money and he wouldn’t be able to leave the country. He’d be in exile relegated to their estate in the countryside alone.

Buck and him spent their last night together wrapped in each other’s arms. He remembered how Buck’s body shook with sobs when Eddie told him he had to leave. He remembered the pure sadness in his eyes as Eddie slipped his St. Christopher’s medal onto his neck.

“Something to remember me by.” Eddie had said. He was sure that they’d never see each other again but he hoped that Buck never forgot the thing they had and how special it was because he sure as hell wouldn’t.

The next morning Eddie was gone leaving Buck only with his medal and a note that only said “I Love You.”

A month after Eddie left, it was announced that the Crown Prince was engaged to be married. Imagine his surprise when he saw Eddie’s picture on every major newspaper and magazine. He was heartbroken and betrayed. Eddie hadn’t even mentioned who he was. Safe to say, Buck didn’t hang around in Peru for much longer than that.

He headed back to his home country of the United States of North America alone as he’d always been. Everyone always abandoned him. His parents, his sister and now his lover.

With no other prospects, Buck decided to pursue a dream he’d had for a while. He decided to join the Navy and become a Seal. Maybe then he’d find a place where he belonged.

When Eddie got married a year later, Buck graduated from Seals training and signed off on immediate deployment. By the time the wedding pictures had been published, Buck was on the other side of the world.

Unfortunately, Buck returned to Peru two years later on assignment. The entire country had been celebrating the recent birth of the heir, Eddie’s son. Peru itself was brimming with happiness for their Duchess and the King. The joy he felt in Peru previously was now stamped over with despair. All the happy memories with Eddie now marred with the reality that he was nothing more than a summer fling.

Nobody on his team questioned why Buck seemed ecstatic to go back to Alaska where they had been stationed before even though they knew he despised the cold.

Buck never returned to Peru after that, not even on assignment. He was lucky that his command had liked him enough to allow him to veto certain assignments.

His heartbeat never healed and Buck found himself bouncing from person to person and man to woman desperately seeking what he had with Eddie in those two short months.

(He never found it.)

Buck had been in Asia off the grid when the King and Queen passed away suddenly in a tragic plane crash. He didn’t hear of their deaths until he got back to the mainland months later. Eddie had already been crowned by then. Buck had looked up pictures of his coronation. He wished that he could ignore how happy he looked to have his queen beside him.

He was no longer Prince Eddie but now King Edmundo. In Buck’s heart, he’d always just be his Eddie.

The two of them met each other again ten years later.

Buck had been on assignment in the Kingdom of Centrana when King Edmundo started paid his first visit to their kingdom. Buck sulked the entire time not being able to avoid seeing Eddie and Shannon plastered everywhere.

He had been enjoying his downtime when he had been recalled to base for an emergency. The King’s palace in Centrana had been breached and both royal families were being held hostage. Their ambassador in DC had reached out to the president and now Buck and his team were tasked with executing the rescue operation.

Buck steeled himself and willed the thoughts of Eddie away. He had an operation to do. His team was methodical as they infiltrated the palace and took out enemies as they went through room by room.

They had finally gotten to the throne room where the families were being held. Buck chucked the smoke grenade and signaled his team. They didn’t stop shooting until each enemy combatant had fallen.

They had made quick work of assessing for injuries and Buck was tasked with taking care of the Eddie and his wife. He slipped off his helmet and ignored the look of recognition on Eddie’s face as he relayed the information to base camp.

“Buck?” Eddie called out softly not believing his eyes. Buck looked different now but he was still as handsome if not more than Eddie remembered. His body was all muscle and his eyes were dull. He had scars and rough hands. He looked nothing like the love sick guy he fell in love with a decade ago.

Buck ignored him and relayed into his comms, “This is Bravo One, we’re a go for exfil.”

“Copy that Bravo One.” Buck stood up holding a hand out for Shannon and helping her up and Eddie got off the ground on his own.

“Stay behind me at all times. Do you understand?” Buck asked.

Shannon nodded wanting to be out this dreadful place already. She knew now which kingdom she was never visiting again.

“Buck..” Eddie started grabbing his arm. His Buck was here to save him. It had been years since they’d last seen each other. He wanted nothing more than to give him a kiss and tell him he still loved him.

“Now’s not the time. We have to go.” Buck said cutting him off and putting on his helmet, pulling himself out of Eddie’s grip. He grabbed his gun and lead his team and the hostages to safety.

He left Eddie and Shannon with their Security team and their medics to stay and was on the first helicopter out back to base once it was cleared with command.

Buck cried himself to sleep that night in his bunk as the familiar pain of heartache flooded him.

Chapter Text

After getting checked out by medics, the only thing on Eddie’s mind was talking to Buck. He asked his staff to find out him. He felt disappointed to hear that the North American soldiers had already left. Shannon and him were escorted back to the embassy and Eddie requested an inquiry into Buck. He need to know what he’d been up to in the past couple years. He needed to talk to him dammit.

Eddie was not about to let Buck slip through his hands again. He wouldn’t allow it.

The next day as he was having breakfast his military advisor Bobby placed a large file unto the table.

“As requested your highness.....I must say this guy is pretty impressive for someone so young. This only covers the non classified material.” Bobby said looking thoroughly impressed. Bobby curtsied and left the room leaving Eddie with the file.

The file must have been a good two inches thick. The first thing he saw when he opened the file was a picture of Buck in his dress uniform. God he looked so handsome. The numerous medals that decorated his chest didn’t escape Eddie’s notice.

Master Chief Petty Officer Evan Jack Buckley

According to the file, Buck would have graduated training around the same time Shannon and him got married. His first deployment was within days. The location wasn’t specified but the file did say that Buck had gotten commended for bravery.

He was totally engrossed in the file not even noticing when Shannon sat down at the table.

“Doing some light reading?” Shannon asked raising her eyebrow.

“Uh..yeah I guess.” Eddie wasn’t sure how Shannon would react if he told her that the man who saved them yesterday was the one that got away for him.

Shannon had known that Eddie had been seeing someone when their marriage was arranged. She wasn’t mad and if anything she was sympathetic. She knew that Eddie was gay and she was willing to go along with things to help him out. They’d managed to develop a good friendship.

“You’re lying.” She said narrowing her eyes.

“You remember that guy I told you about? When we got married?” Eddie asked.

“Yeah? What about him?” Shannon asked. She couldn’t help but wonder why the sudden interest in his old lover.

“He was the man who saved us yesterday. The leader of that team of North Americans.” Eddie confessed.

Shannon’s eyes widened.

“That was your Buck?” She asked incredulously. The stoic soldier seemed nothing like the man Eddie had told her about.

“Yeah. Apparently he’s a Navy Seal now.”

Shannon whistled, “Oh wow. He must be tough as hell.”

“Yeah. This file is his. Apparently this is only the non classified stuff according to Bobby.” Eddie said holding up the thick file.

“I wanna see too.” Shannon said getting up pulling her chair closer to Eddie.

“Wow. A Silver Star....wait a Navy Cross too? Aren’t those like super prestigious?” Shannon asked.

“Yeah. They’re the second and third most honorable medals you can get in the North American military.” Eddie explained.

Eddie had always loved reading about their military. The pride their troops had to serve was unparalleled. They were one of the strongest militaries in the world. He hoped to get Samericana on that level some day.

“Impressive.” Shannon remarked.

“Makes me think about all the hell’s he’s had to go through to get them though.” Eddie frowned.

Being a Seal was a dangerous job. He didn’t want Buck to put himself in danger. What if he lost him before he had a chance to get him back?

“Well he’s still kicking so that’s a good thing. Maybe you should reach out to their ambassador and ask if you could meet the men who saved us. It’ll give you an excuse to talk to him and maybe you two can catch up.” Shannon suggested.

“You think I should?” Eddie asked. At the end of the day he and Shannon were still married and would likely stay married. Buck was his ex lover and any wife would feel threatened by that.

“I think you should. Maybe you two can clear the air or something.”

“You sure it won’t bother you?” Eddie bit his lip nervously.

Shannon grabbed his hand and made him look at her, “Eddie. You love him. It’s been a decade and that hasn’t changed. You and I both know that this marriage is only a marriage on paper.”

“I love you too though.” Eddie said sincerely.

“I know and I love you too...but you don’t love me in the way you love Buck and I’m okay with that.” Shannon said genuinely.

Shannon was so selfless. It never ceased to amaze him the lengths she’d go to to make Chris and him happy.

“Thank you.”

“No problem. Now start working on getting your boy back. We should really come up with an operation name for that. It would be fitting since he’s a Seal.” Shannon said excited.

Shannon wanted Eddie to be happy and if Buck made him happy then so be it. She’d never admit it but she was pushing Eddie for her own reasons as well. Maybe this would be a good way for her to get out of this marriage.

She loved Eddie and she loved her son but Shannon wanted to experience real romantic love. She wanted to travel and have a real career. She never wanted to be helping to run a country. So if she got her out by helping Eddie reconnect with his true love then it was a win-win for everybody.

“Let’s do one thing at a time.” Eddie said dryly looking down at the picture of Buck. Once he got him back he was never letting him go again.

Buck wasn’t the least bit surprised when their commander requested them for a meeting the next day. Apparently to show their thanks the King and Queen Consort of Samericana wanted to meet him formally and give him tokens of appreciation for his team’s work. Buck argued that the whole team should have been going and not just him but one look from his commander had him withering.

Buck had no doubt that Eddie was behind this. The man had seemed determined to talk to him yesterday but Buck was over it. Eddie had a wife and child now. Nothing was the same anymore.

He had been ordered to clean up and look presentable and soon Buck found himself in the sitting room of the Samerican Embassy resisting the urge to fidget with his uniform.

“His royal highness, your majesty, King Edmundo Diaz of Samericana and Europa.” A staff member announced as Eddie walked in.

Buck took a deep breath and saluted him as he was taught.

“At ease Master Chief.” Eddie said smiling at him. He turned and motioned to the staff member to leave and Buck watched as they hurried away closing the door behind them leaving just Eddie and him.

Buck remained stiff and stoic as if he was being inspected by his commander. He just wanted to get this over with.

“You can relax you know. Sit please. I insist.” Eddie said taking a seat on one of the armchairs in the room.

“Yes your majesty.” Buck said not being able to keep the mocking tone of his voice. Eddie raised his eyebrow but said nothing and Buck sat down.

“I suppose you’re mad at me for not telling you.” Eddie started. Buck just stared at him impassively.

“I’m sorry. I was going to tell you but then I had to leave-“

Buck cut him off, “You had two months to tell me and you didn’t but it doesn’t matter anymore now does it?.”

“Buck I’m so sorry. I never wanted to leave you but I had no choice. My parents gave me an ultimatum.” Eddie tried explaining but Buck didn’t even budge.

“It doesn’t matter anymore your majesty. You’ve moved on and it’s whatever now.” Buck said keeping his voice level.

Seeing Eddie and being so close to him was stirring up all kinds of old emotions.

“Buck. Shannon and I aren’t like that. I still love you baby.” Eddie said getting up and kneeling in front of him.

It made a pretty picture. He couldn’t help but think about the power play here. Eddie, the King, was on his knees in front of Buck.

“She’s still your wife and I’m not a homewrecker. It’s been years. Just let it go please. I’ve come to terms with it. I was nothing more than a summer fling for you.” Buck said stone faced.

This wasn’t a Buck that Eddie was used to seeing. Buck was emotionless. Eddie had no idea what he was feeling or what he was thinking. The Buck he knew wore his heart on his sleeve.

“You were so much more than a summer fling to me. I loved you then and I love you now please believe me Buck.” Eddie looked at him pleadingly.

Buck felt his patience snap. He stood up not being able to keep his cool anymore.

“You left me! I was on my own yet again after I told you about my abandonment issues! You used me! You told me you loved me and then you left me just like everyone else! Next thing I know you’re a Prince and you’re getting married and you have a kid and I’m being sent on classified operations in some corner of the world behind God’s back with nothing but memories, an I love you note and a necklace from my ex lover.” Buck practically yelled.

Eddie didn’t even flinch at the blatant disrespect from Buck. Nobody was allowed to speak to the King in that manner. If it was any other person he’d have their head but this was Buck and Buck was angry at him for good reason so he’d let him.

“You still have it?” Eddie asked surprised. He had no idea that Buck had kept his St.Christopher’s medal. It warmed his heart to know that Buck cherished his gift so much.

“That’s all you got from what I had to say? You know what? I’m done with this shit.” Buck said yanking the necklace off of his neck and flinging it onto the floor next to Eddie.

“It was nice seeing you again, your majesty but I need to go now.” Buck said walking out the door.

“Buck wait-“ Eddie was cut off by the loud slam of the door.

Eddie slumped leaning back onto the chair on the floor. That was not how he expected things to go. Eddie had to try again.

He stared at the medal in his hand and vowed to never give up on winning Buck back. He didn’t care if he had grovel to the end of time to get Buck back, he would.

Operation Make Buck the King Consort was a go.

Chapter Text

That night in his office at the embassy Eddie sat at the desk nursing a glass of whiskey. Shannon knocked on the door and leaned against the doorway.

“So I take it the talk didn’t go well?” She asked taking in his state.

Eddie sighed, “I don’t know what I expected. I guess it was selfish of me to assume that he’d still want me after a decade. He thinks I moved on with you.”

“Eddie.” Shannon said sympathetic coming in the room and sitting on the desk on front of him.

“I don’t know what to do. I can run a country but I can’t figure out how to get my lover back? Pathetic.” Eddie leaned back in the chair.

Shannon poured herself a glass of whiskey. They had some serious planning to do.

“Well with that thinking of course you won’t get him back. Come on we need to come up with a real plan.” Shannon said.

“Like what?” Eddie asked intrigued.

“Well first we need an operation name-“

“I already chose one. Make Buck the King Consort.”

Shannon raised an eyebrow, “Alright then. So time to put your military strategy to work.”

Eddie and Shannon spent most of the night planning and drinking on ways to get Buck back before they came up with something.

“To Operation Make Buck the King Consort.” Shannon said raising her glass.

“To Operation Make Buck the King Consort.” Eddie said knocking their glasses.

Buck didn’t even have the time to be mad at Eddie as his team was whisked away to the other side of the world on another assignment the next day. He pushed all the thoughts of his ex out of his mind and focused on the task at hand. He hoped that this assignment dragged on because he dreaded having to return to Centrana.

Apparently, Eddie and Shannon had launched a joint effort that morning with Centrana’s royal family to form a joint military force to prevent insurgences like what had occurred. This meant that they’d be in Centrana for the next couple of weeks. Buck was due to be in Centrana for two more months after this temporary assignment before he headed back to the States.

Since the universe was against him (and Eddie clearly had no intentions of leaving him alone), he had no doubt he would be encountering Eddie more often than he’d like. He was sure the only reason that Eddie was doing this was so that he had a reason to stick around Centrana and see him. Whatever he couldn’t think about that right now.

Buck was currently perched in a tree somewhere in the jungle waiting on for his cue. Their elusive target package had finally turned up in the middle of no where so of course they were sent to retrieve him in the middle of nowhere.

Zing!

What the fuck?

Buck barely had time to react as a bullet embedded into the branch beside his face followed by another just above his shoulder. He shifted losing his footing and landed on his arm on the jungle floor.

Fuck that hurt.

“This is Bravo One I’m taking fire over here.” He said over the comms as a steady stream of bullets continued into the tree he was just in.

“Brave One be advised there’s a sniper over that northern ridge. Alpha is on their way to cover you.”

“Copy that.” Buck said groaning. He was a sitting duck here. Buck glanced down at his arm. Shit there was no doubt that it was broken. Buck grimaced as he tried to move it.

“Havoc, this is Bravo One. I’m hurt. Possible broken arm. I can’t get to my rifle.” Buck relayed.

“Copy that. Sit tight. Bravo Three is en route to you.”

Buck leaned against the bottom of the tree taking cover. By the time the shooting stopped and Bravo Three made his way to him Buck had been sitting there for about ten minutes.

“Yup. Definitely broken.” Seth said assessing him.

“This is Bravo Three. Bravo One definitely has a broken arm. What’s the sitrep on exfil?” Seth asked on the comms.

“Alpha has passed London. I repeat Alpha has passed London. You’re free to make your way to exfil.”

“Alright let’s go Buck.” Seth said splinting his arm and helping him up.

By the time they got back to base camp Buck’s arm had swollen to almost the twice the size. It was broken in two places so he’s definitely be sitting any ops out for a while. Just his luck. Another problem to add to his 99.

Back in Centrana’s capital, Eddie and Shannon eagerly awaited news from the North American ambassador. He’d requested Buck’s presence again citing that he was very impressed with him. The ambassador grinned as Eddie praised their military and didn’t hesitate to send the request to Buck’s commander.

Bobby entered the patio where Shannon and Eddie sat in comfortable silence.

“You majesties, unfortunately Master Chief Buckley is unavailable at the moment and cannot meet your request. However, the ambassador assures me that as soon as he is available he will meet with you.” Bobby said relaying the information.

“What do you mean he’s unavailable?” Eddie asked. Why is it at every turn with Buck he was hitting a brick wall?

“It’s classified but I’ve been told that his team was sent on a temporary reassignment. I’m not sure when they’d be back to complete their assignment here.” At least Bobby had the decency to look apologetic.

Bobby knew the history between him and Buck. Hell, he was one of the men on his parents’ detail when they stormed into his hotel room. Bobby had known him since he was a teenager raising hell to get on his parents’ nerves. He was actually the first one Eddie came out to.

He hadn’t faltered for a second to pull him into a hug and assure him that everything would be okay. He didn’t even hesitate to repeat that gesture on Eddie’s wedding day when he contemplated fleeing the coup and heading back to Peru to Buck.

Eddie sighed, “Thank you Bobby.”

Bobby nodded and turned on his heels heading back into the main house. Eddie groaned in frustration and smacked his head on the table.

“What now?” He asked.

“Now we wait till he gets back and then we can set the record straight.” Shannon said patting him on his back.

She stood up, “Come on now. There’s no use in wasting time. Let’s call Christopher and see what he’s up to. Maybe you’ll feel better.”

Eddie stood up and followed her inside with a pep in his step. Talking to his son always made him feel better.

Buck had just landed on base a couple of days later when his commander approached him and pulled him aside.

“Buck what happened?” He asked as he took note of Buck’s cast.

“I fell out of a tree?” Buck winced.

Commander Stevens looked at him exasperatedly.

“I don’t even want to know.” He said shaking his head, “The Samerican ambassador has sent me word that their King had requested your presence. Apparently, you made quite an impression last time.”

“Of course I did.” Buck muttered sarcastically.

“I told her that I’d send you as soon as you came back so get dressed and go right after the after action okay?”

“Yes sir.” Buck nodded.

Great. All he wanted to do was sleep but now he had to go deal with Eddie. What was his deal anyway? Can’t he just leave him alone? It’s been ten years for Christ’s sake. Buck had been hurt enough that summer and he didn’t need to be hurt again by Eddie. He was sure that would be his breaking point.

Buck tried to hide his annoyance at having to be here as he was escorted to Eddie by one of the staff members. His commander had been clear that Buck was to be respectful at all times.

He was surprised to be led into an office that held both Eddie and his wife Shannon. She was even prettier in person with luscious dark brown locks. Buck couldn’t help but feel a bit bitter than that. He thought that Eddie had a thing for blondes? Oh well.

“Your majesties, Master Chief Buckley is here.” She said before curtsying and leaving him alone with the couple.

“What the hell happened to you?” Eddie asked forgoing any formalities as he took in Buck’s case and under eye bags.

“I fell out of a tree?” Buck said vaguely.

“You fell out of a tree?” Eddie asked incredulously.

“Yeah.” Buck shrugged. It was hardly the most severe injury he had during his time as a Seal.

“Are you hurt anywhere else? Tell me. I’ll have someone come and look at you if you want.” Eddie fretted.

In a lapse of judgement, Buck slapped Eddie’s arms away with his good arm as he tried to feel if Buck had any other injuries.

“What do you want? I thought I made myself clear.” Buck said in absolutely no mood for small talk. Eddie just looked at him hurt. Buck used to love being fretted over. Eddie suspected it had to do with the neglect from his parents.

“I told him to request your presence. I thought we could all talk.” Shannon said butting in and getting up, approaching Buck.

“I’m Shannon” She said holding out her hand for him to shake.

Buck looked at her unsurely and shook her hand, “Your majesty.”

“None of that please. Why don’t you have seat? You must be tired. I’ve heard you had a long couple of days.” Buck raised an eyebrow at that and allowed her to push him into a comfortable chair. Buck wanted to hate her but she seemed so nice.

“You’re keeping tabs on me? Really?” Buck asked annoyed.

“I just wanted to know when you were free and what you’ve been up to.” Eddie said sitting next to Shannon on the large sofa in front of Buck.

“Well I wish I would have to go through ambassadors and diplomats to find out what you’ve been up to but unfortunately you’re face is always plastered everywhere.” Buck snarked.

Eddie sighed. Buck clearly held a lot of resentment for him. Those eyes that were once filled with adoration towards him was now filled with pure hurt and hatred.

“I think there is some things that need to be cleared up. So please give us a chance to explain things.” Shannon said.

Buck sighed and motioned for them to talk. It wouldn’t hurt to hear what they had say. He wasn’t expected back on base for another hour or so anyway.

“Well for one. Eddie and I’s marriage is only a marriage on paper. I know he’s gay and I also know the whole story between you two.” Shannon said straight to the point.

Wait what? Buck was sure they were madly in love. How could they not be? She was the perfect queen consort for Eddie minus the fact that she was a woman.

“Eddie here was absolutely distraught throughout our engagement. I was sure that he’d leave me at the altar. I didn’t understand why until he confessed on his wedding day about the love of his life Buck that he had to leave in Peru.” She started.

“I understood. We agreed that we would stay married but live different lives. We also needed to have an heir to placate his parents so we did. We grew to love each other yes...but not in that way. Nobody can replace your place in Eddie’s heart, Buck...and certainly not me.” She said looking at him sincerely.

Her eyes held truth and Buck could tell she wasn’t lying. Her body language said it all.

“I-“ Buck had no words. He didn’t even know to how begin processing what she just told him. Their marriage was a sham? Eddie still loved him?

“I love you Buck. I loved you then and I loved you now and I want to try again with you. I’m so sorry for the way things ended...but now that my parents are gone we could have another chance. I want to make things right.” Eddie said looking at him pleadingly. He wanted this bad but if Buck didn’t then he would just have to make peace with that.

“I love you too...” Buck confessed. He never stopped. No one could fill the void in his heart that Eddie left. Trust him, Buck had tried.

Eddie beamed at him.

“You have no idea how happy it makes me to hear that.” Eddie said, eyes shining bright with hope. Shannon had never seen Eddie looked so happy since Chris was born. These two were clearly meant to be.

“But how would this even work? You’re married and you have a kid and let’s not forgot you’re a literal king and my job....I don’t stay in one place for long. I’m always gone, off to some remote corner of the world at the drop of a hat. I don’t know Eddie.” Buck was hesitant. He wanted to try but the logistics jus my weren’t there.

“I know but we’ll make it work. I promise. We’ll figure something out. Just please give this a shot.” Eddie begged.

Buck could never say no to him. He couldn’t then and he can’t now. He had no idea how this would work but he wanted to try.

“Okay.” He said.

“Yeah?” Eddie asked not believing that Buck was agreeing to what he was asking.

“Yeah.” Eddie couldn’t help but launch himself at Buck pulling him into a kiss. Shannon cheered in the background. Thank God. She could get started on the divorce proceedings.

Eddie melted into the kiss with Buck. It was like the whole world faded and it was just the two of them. Eddie wanted this everyday. He would walk through fire for this to work. It had to.

Chapter Text

After that talk with Eddie and Shannon, Buck found himself giving into old feelings. He and Eddie decided that they would take things slow and try to get reacquainted with each other first. After all it had been ten years and Eddie was still married to the public.

They had shared tentative kisses and found themselves talking for hours on end during their spare time with Shannon joining them occasionally. Buck had gotten a good sense of their dynamics by now. They seemed to be more of two friends raising a child together rather than a couple raising their child.

Buck had only met Christopher over the phone. Eddie had introduced him as an old friend. He didn’t mind. He didn’t want to confuse the child or upset him when he realized that his parents weren’t together anymore.

It wasn’t only Christopher that was told Buck was an old friend. Most of Eddie’s staff except for Bobby, Athena, Hen and Chimney had been told Buck was simply an old friend who he reconnected with when he saved him after the insurgence against the royal family or Centrana.

Buck had gotten to know Eddie’s circle of advisers well. He had barely been on base lately spending all his free time at the embassy only going back to meet curfew and attend whatever meetings and trainings he had to oversee. No one questioned his absences as Buck had a habit of running wild during his free time whenever they were on assignment abroad.

Buck had just gotten back to the embassy after a meeting with his commander when he found Eddie in one of the sitting rooms having tea.

“Hey babe.” Eddie greeted him putting down his teacup and giving him an appreciative once over. Eddie loved to see Buck in his uniform. His uniform stuck to him like glue and emphasized his muscles. Buck had an aura of strength and confidence when he wore his uniform and Eddie loved it.

“Hey.” Buck sighed plopping onto the sofa next to him.

“What’s wrong?” Eddie asked picking up on his mood.

“My commander is forcing me to take medical leave until I’m healed. He wanted me off base and out of his hair by the end of the week.” Buck explained. Buck still had about two weeks until he was cleared for duty.

“I don’t see what’s so bad about that?” Leave was good in Eddie’s opinion. They’d be able to spend some more quality time together and Eddie could take a break from worrying about him doing some crazy training exercises.

“I just hate being away from work. It’s all I have.” Buck confessed. His only friends were also Seals. Buck didn’t have much of a life outside the Navy and his sister was God knows where with her husband.

“That’s not true. You have me.” Eddie rebutted.

“I didn’t have you for a decade though.” Buck pointed out. He was still working through the residual hurt.

Eddie sighed, “Buck that doesn’t matter anymore. We have each other now okay?”

“Yeah okay.” Buck said unconvinced. They only had each other in private. To the world, Eddie was still married to Shannon and Buck was just another Navy Seal.

“Tell you what. Take your leave and I’ll take some time off and we can go somewhere. Maybe Peru? We could relive old memories.” Eddie suggested.

“Yeah? Are you sure? I know you’re busy-“

Eddie cut him off, “I’m never too busy for you okay? I want us to spend time together while we can. Who knows where they’ll send you off when you’re done with your assignment here.”

Buck’s job was a bit of a sore spot for them. They were running on borrowed time. They only had so long before Buck was sent some other God forsaken corner in the world where Eddie wouldn’t be able to see him or talk to him for God knows how long. Eddie probably wouldn’t even know if something happened to Buck.

Buck bit his lip, “Okay. If you’re absolutely sure.”

“I’m absolutely sure. I’ll have Chimney organize it. Now as much as I love you in your uniform, I think it would look better off no?” Eddie smirked and started tugging on his shirt.

Buck smirked and let himself be manhandled on the couch. If it was one thing he learnt was that Eddie was a King outside and inside of the bedroom. Maybe a couple of days of this was all he needed.

Chimney had organized their trip for them. They were going to be staying at a private villa. Buck had wanted to stay in the hotel they lived in when he first met Eddie but it was too much of a risk. They were trying to minimize the amount of security they needed as nobody really needed to know that the King was back in Samericana holed up in a villa with someone who was most definitely not his queen and the mother of the heir to the throne.

The day before they left Buck had been on base all morning packing and submitting his leave forms and all the paperwork which left Eddie free to have a quick breakfast with Shannon before heading out to an event with the King of Centrana.

She had requested his presence and actually had his assistant Hen put it into his calendar. It was strange but Eddie supposed that whatever she wanted to talk about was important.

The moment Eddie sat at the oversized table, Shannon slid an envelope over to him. He raised an eyebrow looking at her.

“Open it.” She prompted taking a sip of her tea.

Eddie opened the envelope and glanced at the papers. He did a double take when he realized what they were.

“Shannon...” He started.

She gave him a small smile, “I love you Eddie but I’m not happy doing this. Your parents aren’t around anymore so they don’t have any say in this. It’s time we got a divorce.”

Eddie glanced at the date listed on the filing. It was the same week Buck agreed to get back together with him.

“You’ve been thinking about this for a while huh?” He asked.

She nodded, “Even before Buck came back into the picture. I’m relieved to know that he’ll be by your side when I cannot any longer.”

“Shannon, the press will be all over this.” As much as Eddie wanted this so he could be free to do as he pleased with Buck, he still wasn’t ready for the consequences.

“I know but you just have to face it. It’s not fair to Buck or me that we’re still together and you know it, so sign them. We can figure out what to do with Christopher later.”

“Okay.” Eddie agreed.

“My advice..sign them before you leave. That way the news will break when you’re far away.” She said getting up and patting him on the back before leaving the room.

It was just Eddie, his thoughts and the divorce papers.

That night Buck arrived at the embassy with his duffle en tow and found Eddie sitting at his desk in the office deep in thought.

“Penny for your thoughts?” Buck asked dropping his duffle at the door and approaching the desk.

Eddie pushed the chair back and patted his thighs motioning for Buck to sit. Buck sat down and placed his legs on either side of the chair so that he was straddling Eddie. Eddie pulled him into a soft kiss rubbing the back of Buck’s neck.

Even after they pulled away he continued the motion absentmindedly. Buck could tell Eddie had a lot on his mind. As King, he always did but this was different. They sat in silence for so long that it almost startled him when Eddie spoke.

“Shannon asked for a divorce.”

That ....was not what he expected.

“Wait what? When?” Buck asked.

“She had the papers drawn up when we got back together but she’s apparently been thinking about it for a while now that my parents are out of the picture.” Eddie said running his hands up and down Buck’s thighs soothingly.

“I’m sorry.” Buck said. He wasn’t quite sure how Eddie would feel about the divorce. At the end of the day they had been together for years and even had a child. It would take some adjusting for him. Buck couldn’t help but feel a bit guilty that he contributed to this divorce.

“It’s okay. We both knew it was going to happen sooner or later. I already signed the papers. It’s just going to be a press nightmare but we’ll be in Peru enjoying ourselves by then.”

“What about Chris? Don’t you guys think you should tell him?” A divorce was tough on any kid.

“We spoke to him this afternoon. It went okay. I don’t think he quite understands what it means yet.”

Buck hummed and Eddie sighed.

“I just wish we could fast forward to the part where we lived happily ever after.”

“That’s not how life works.” Buck laughed.

“I know.” Eddie groaned. Eddie still seemed distracted. It may have been years but Buck could read him like a book. There was something else bothering him.

“But that’s not all is it?” Eddie shook his head.

“I think we need to keep this quiet for a while longer until the divorce is finalized. It won’t be a good look for us if people find out and I don’t want to comprise your job.” Seems reasonable. Lord knows that the Navy would have his head if they found about his romance with the King of another country while on active duty.

“Fair enough.”

“Good.” Eddie said before kissing him passionately. If Buck ended up getting fucked on Eddie’s desk that night well nobody but them had to know.

Chapter Text

They flew to Peru on a private jet the next morning. Eddie had left the signed papers for one of his assistants to file later that day. Eddie had wanted them to be settled in before the news broke and people started questioning his whereabouts.

The villa they were staying at was absolutely gorgeous. It had large windows that bathed each room with natural light throughout the day and it’s own private beach. It was the perfect get away for them where they could kiss and be affectionate without having to worry that someone was watching them.

It was a cathartic experience to return to the place where it all started for Buck now that they were back together again. As soon as they landed Buck couldn’t help but reminisce about all the trouble they had gotten up to before Eddie’s (in)voluntarily departure.

“What’s got you do deep in thought?” Eddie asked pulling Buck away from his memories as he pulled Buck closer so that he was practically laying on his chest.

They were exhausted after they landed and went straight to bed for a nap not even bothering to unpack or get something to eat.

“Just thinking about us.” Buck said trailing his fingertips up and down Eddie’s chest.

“Yeah? What about us?”

“Do you remember how we met?”

“Of course I do. How could I forget the first time I met an angel?”

The moment Eddie landed in Peru he sought out alcohol. He needed the liquid courage after what he had just done. He could already imagine the headlines if the press got word.

Samericana’s heir jets off to Peru amidst disagreement with the King and Queen.

He checked into his hotel and went in the direction the kind lady at the front desk pointed him in when he asked where the nearest bar was. The bar was a small one right on the beach. There were shelves of various alcoholic beverages lining the walls and if Eddie couldn’t see how people didn’t get sick from the strong smell of the ocean wafting in.

“Can I get you something?” A voice asked as he took a seat at the bar. He turned in the direction of the voice and wow.

“Are you a model?”

Eddie blurted out. He turned pink in embarrassment as the guy let out a laugh.

“Sorry but no. Just a bartender.” The guy smiled. His blue eyes twinkled in amusement and his blonde hair shone underneath the sunshine streaming in. The man looked akin to a Greek God. He never paid much attention in church but surely this man had to be an angel of some kind.

“The bartenders sure as hell don’t like you where I’m from. I’m Eddie.”

“I’m Buck.” The guy said but Eddie was focused on his eyes. He had a feeling those blues were going to get him into tons of trouble.

“I still can’t believe you asked me if I was a model.” Buck snorted.

“Well I’m sorry if I thought you were the most beautiful man I’d ever lain eyes on. Matter of fact you’re still the most beautiful man I’ve ever lain eyes on.”

“Can I have that in writing for Chimney?” He and Chimney had a rivalry about who was the hottest. They’d even gotten professional photos done to compare.

(One of which mysteriously ended up on his bunk back at base. Buck still hadn’t recovered from the teasing from his team mates.)

Eddie looked at him unimpressed, “Really? You’re gonna bring up Chimney while we’re in bed together?”

Buck shrugged.

“Clearly, I have some work to do if you’re thinking of other men while we’re in bed together.” Eddie said flipping them over so that Buck was pinned under him.

“So possessive.” Buck teased.

“Am not.”

“You are. Don’t think I forgot about the time you got kicked out of that club for punching that guy who grabbed my ass.”

“Well he deserved it.”

Buck had been determined to make sure that Eddie had the time of his life while in Peru. He had shown him all the best spots to surf, taken him to all the good food places and even introduced him to some of his local buddies, Mateo and Leo.

Eddie got along with them well. He hung out with them while Buck was working and they looked out for him. Tonight the whole crew were heading for a night out on the town. They had picked up Mateo’s girlfriend and her friend and they were going to some club that Leo had managed to get their names on the list at.

He learnt pretty quickly that Buck could hold his liquor well. Something he had learnt how to do during his brief stint in university back in North America. Their universities had a notorious reputation when it came to parties. Eddie himself could hold his liquor well but Buck could out drink him any day of the week.

He had no idea how he ended up in a shots competition with Buck but he knocked back glass after glass until he couldn’t. Eddie was practically a goner by then. Buck dragged him onto the dance floor and they danced (more like grinded) for song after song. Eddie had made his way back to the bar to get some water when he spotted a guy that was way to close to his boyfriend.

He saw red as the guy grabbed Buck’s ass and he abandoned his water making his way through the crowd. He pulled the guy away and landed one straight in the face.

“Qué mierda!” Eddie felt nothing but satisfaction watching the blood drip down his face as the bouncer dragged him out of the club.

“I’m pretty sure you broke his nose.” Buck said.

“He was touching what was mine.”

“See! Possessive bastard.” Buck grumbled.

“I’ll show you possessive.” Eddie said pulling him into a searing kiss, holding Buck’s thighs up so that their bodies where slotted together. Buck was his and if he needed a reminder well Eddie was happy to oblige.

Later as they laid intertwined basking in the afterglow Buck’s mind drifted to some of the fond memories of their time together a decade ago.

Buck snorted.

“What?” Eddie asked confused. What was so amusing to Buck in this moment?

“I just thought about the time I took you surfing.” Eddie groaned.

Eddie had been in Peru for about two weeks now and he had yet to catch any waves. Buck had offered to take him to one of the spots he frequented and Eddie didn’t have the courage to tell him that he in fact could not surf nor could he swim.

Sure Eddie was a prince and he’d learnt various things during his lessons growing up like fencing and martial arts but swimming was not one of them. His parents preferred the cold and so ever vacationing was usually spent skiing rather than swimming on a tropical beach so Eddie never learnt how. He wasn’t going to tell Buck that though. Buck was a catch and he needed to impress him or else some other hot surfer dude would take him away.

When Eddie first saw the swells he was intimidated but he couldn’t chicken out now. Buck had taken him to get a surf board the before and the younger man was brimming in excitement as he leaped into the water with his board. Eddie followed him unsurely and tried to copy what he was doing.

It was only when he realized how far out they were that he started to panic. A large wave pushed him under and Eddie fought frantically to get his head up from under the water. He felt a strong hand grab him and drag him back closer to shore until they were safe on the sand.

“You can’t swim can you?” Buck asked.

Eddie shook his head no.

“How about we teach you that first and then we can tackle surfing?”

“I still can’t believe you thought I wouldn’t notice that you didn’t know what you were doing.” Buck laughed.

“I just wanted to impress you.” Eddie pouted and Buck gave him a small kiss.

“I was impressed the moment you thought I was a model babe but if you really didn’t have to almost die to get my attention.”

“Well it seems that’s the only way to get your attention after all it was yet another dangerous situation that had us crossing paths a decade later,” Eddie said recalling the moment he realized that it was Buck who was leading the North American Seal team.

“I was so scared but then you showed up with your guns blazing and all the confidence in the world and I couldn’t believe that it was the same guy I had fallen in love with all those years ago,” Eddie confessed.

“We barely had time to look at the mission brief beforehand. Obviously by then I knew who you really were and I figured you were there but the only thing on my mind was completing the op. I didn’t have time to dwell on any old feelings,” Buck paused, “After though it was like the hurt came back tenfold after seeing you and Shannon. I felt like I had lost you all over again.”

“You never lost me baby. You always held my heart. I love you.” Eddie said caressing his cheek lightly.

“I know…I love you too.” Buck said kissing him. This time they didn’t fuck but rather they made love, reaffirming their love for each other blissfully unaware of the havoc the divorce was causing as the news broke.

The next couple days were the opposite of that day. Eddie and Buck had plans to go visit the old beach bar where they met but they were stonewalled when Eddie’s security and advisors informed them of the chaos that was occurring.

Eddie’s divorce was plastered on the front page of every international newspaper. There were pictures of Shannon after she had been papped that morning and multiple questions about the King’s whereabouts. There were speculations about what caused the divorce and if Chris was even Eddie’s child.

Eddie was seething at the fact that they would even insinuate that Chris wasn’t his. He knew the press would be unbearable but it didn’t imagine that it would be this bad. Now Eddie’s bad mood was spilling into his and Buck’s getaway.

“I’m sorry we couldn’t go to the bar like I promised.” Eddie said sitting on a chair next to where Buck was laid out on the beach.

“It’s okay. I’m just glad we can spend some time together. I’m not sure how my schedule will be like when we get back.” Buck was due for a doctor’s appointment to get cleared to go back to work soon. Eddie didn’t want to think about the elephant in the room being Buck’s assignment ending soon. God knows where they might send him next.

Eddie sighed, “Sometimes I really wish I wasn’t a King and then we wouldn’t have to deal with all this.”

“Yeah well this is your reality whether you like it or not but don’t worry I’m sure whatever we have to face, we can conquer it together.”

Eddie smiled and agreed, “Together.”

He could get through anything with Buck by his side….or so he thought. Eddie should have known by now that love wasn’t so easy.

Chapter Text

Buck and Eddie were back in Centrana bright and early Monday morning. Eddie’s time was up and he had to prepare to make his way back to Samericana to face the music.

Buck had gotten cleared for work and was now back on his rigorous training schedule awaiting assignment meaning that he barely had time to sneak away to see Eddie. Buck had been praying with his fingers crossed that his assignment would send him to Samericana.

Neither man knew what it would mean for their relationship if Buck was sent away far from Eddie’s reach. Just the thought of not knowing where he was and if he was safe had Eddie feeling nauseous but Buck loved his job and Eddie would never ask him to give that up even for the sake of their relationship.

Eddie was due to leave to Samericana the next day and Buck was supposed to come and see him so they could spend their last night together for God knows how long.

Buck had been exhausted lately between training and the minefield that was his mind. Ever since Eddie and his little vacation Buck was left with a bitter taste in his mouth. The fact that he couldn’t tell anyone who he was with or where he was. The fact that they could barely leave the villa because of the fear that Eddie might be seen with someone who was most definitely not his wife mid divorce.

Buck couldn’t help but feel a bit used as if he was Eddie’s dirty little secret. He was good enough for Eddie to fuck and love in private but not good enough for him to publicly announce their love.

Logically, Buck knew that Eddie doing that would put them both in a tight spot with Eddie’s divorce and him being a part of another country’s military but it didn’t make Buck feel any less hurt.

It didn’t help that Eddie was leaving to go back to his home country having finished all his duties in Centrana and that Buck had just gotten orders that would send him half way across the world for a couple of days. Wheels were up in three hours. Buck wouldn’t even be able to spend the night with Eddie like they had planned.

He stalked into the embassy and went straight upstairs stalking into Eddie’s quarters as the various guards posted barely batted an eye. He found Eddie sitting in between a pile of suitcases.

“Hey babe. You’re early.” Eddie noted getting up to greet him with a kiss.

“About that…we need to talk,” Buck said pulling away from him.

Eddie frowned. Buck never refused his kisses. He could tell that Buck had something serious to talk about from the rigidity of his spine and the tension practically oozing out of him.

“What’s wrong?” Eddie asked.

“I’ve been given orders. I fly out of base at 20:00 hours.”

Eddie’s heart sank. That was in less than two hours. They wouldn’t even get to spend the night together and say goodbye properly. He knew that Buck could get that call anytime and he would have to go but now he was confronted with the reality of the situation and their bubble was popped.

“Where are you going?” The least he could do is have someone keep an eye on him. Maybe if he knew where Buck was he could reach out to some of his contacts.

“You know I can’t tell you that so please don’t ask questions I can’t give you the answers to.”

“Fuck babe.” Eddie said passing a hand through his hair. It was a tell that Eddie was stressed Buck had learned recently. He couldn’t help but feel guilty that he was the cause of Eddie’s stress.

“I’m sorry,” Buck apologized.

“Sometimes I wished you were still a bartender.” Eddie let slip.

“And sometimes I wish you weren’t fucking royalty,” Buck snapped.

His emotions were running high right now. The last thing he wanted to do was fight with Eddie but he felt as if this last minute goodbye was his last straw. He had just gotten Eddie back and he felt like he was losing him again but this time it was his fault. He was the one leaving on orders.

“What’s that supposed to mean?” Eddie asked defensive. There was nothing wrong with being royalty. Eddie couldn’t help the family he was born into. He had no idea why Buck was choosing to pick a fight over one dumb statement now of all times.

“I wish that we could be together without me feeling like your dirty little secret! That’s what I mean. That’s how I felt the entire time for our getaway!”

“You’re not my dirty little secret Buck.” How could Buck think of himself that way? Eddie loved him with all his heart.

“But I am! We got back together while you were still married for fuck’s sake. I couldn’t even tell anyone who I was on vacation with! We couldn’t go out because people would recognize you and I feel like a dirty secret. I feel used. I’m good enough to sleep with but not good enough for people to know about. Do you know how it feels to have to keep a secret like this? Do you? I wish I could shout from rooftops how much I love you but I can’t because you’re the fucking King of Samericana!” Buck yelled. He hoped that none of the staff came in because that would just be awkward.

This is what Eddie was afraid of. That his birthright would be a point of contention between Buck and him. It was a fear that he’d had since he first fell in love with Buck a decade ago and now it was coming to life.

“Buck I can’t help the family that I’ve been born into. You knew what you were getting yourself into and I’m sorry if you feel that way but you know the situation right now,” Eddie tried.

Buck let out a humorless laugh, “I’m sorry too but I can’t do this Eddie. I hate how this makes me feel. I can’t be a secret.”

“Don’t say that. You’re not a secret. As soon as this blows over with Shannon, we’ll tell people. I promise but it’s going to take a while…nobody even knows I’m gay Buck. It’s going to send the country into a frenzy.” Eddie didn’t want him and Buck to break up. Buck was the only one for him and he wasn’t letting him go again.

“I’m sorry…I don’t want to put you in an impossible position but God Eddie. I just feel so dirty. I don’t know how long I can do this for anymore,” Buck confessed.

He felt as though he was fighting a never ending battle. He knew there were protocols involved but couldn’t Eddie just tell everybody to fuck off and let him love who ever he pleased? He was so tired of all the secrets. He had no idea how Shannon dealt with this for so long. No wonder she jumped ship as soon as she could.

“I can’t do this without you Buck. Please. I’ll do anything,” Eddie pleaded.

“Time to put your money where your mouth is then. I’ll be gone for a couple of days. You can think about what you really want during that time and then we can talk okay?” Buck reasoned.

“Okay,” Eddie agreed, “I don’t want to fight right before you have to leave.”

“Me either.”

“Come here,” Eddie said opening his arms. Buck walked as fast as he could into Eddie’s arms. He always felt safest there. God knows when he’d be able to do this again.

“I love you no matter what. I promise to do right by you,” Eddie whispered as they stood in each other’s embrace.

“I love you too.”

Too bad Eddie would find himself having to do right by Buck sooner or later. Eddie had been back in Samericana for literally a day when Hen came barging in during breakfast with Christopher with an envelope with an air of urgency.

“Chris, how about you go show Ms. Carla the toys I brought back for you.” Carla looked at him and nodded and escorted Chris up to his own rooms in the palace.

“What is it?” Eddie asked worriedly. Was it Buck? Did something happen to him while he was overseas? God please don’t let him be dead.

“This was sent to your office this morning. It was marked urgent. You need to see it right now.” Hen said and Eddie knew it was serious. He opened the envelope and gasped at it’s contents.

“Where did they get these?” Eddie asked.

“I don’t know but Royal News are running the story at mid day. I’ve been trying to stop it since we got word of it but they’re not budging.” Royal news had over 5 million viewers on a bad day. They were fucked.

“Call Athena. See if she could try to stop it.”

Hen nodded and sped out of the dining room. Eddie ran a hand through his hair. Times like this he really wished that Buck was here. He missed him like a phantom limb. He had gotten so used to his presence and constant chatter that the silence of the palace felt almost unnatural.

All the member’s of Eddie’s staff spent the morning running around making phone calls to contacts and old friends trying to stop the story from breaking but alas at 12 pm exactly, Royal News issued a breaking news alert.

“We interrupt our regularly scheduled programing for some breaking news. This is Hector Ramos and this morning a source came to us with some exclusive photos. As you can see these photos came as a great shock to us as they feature our very own King Edmundo and what looks to be his lover locked in a very passionate embrace. We were just as surprised as you were considering our beloved Queen Consort only filed for divorce last week! I wonder who the King’s mystery man is and could he be the reason why the country’s power couple has chosen to go their separate ways? Stay tuned for the inside scoop.”