Chapter Text
Alicent Hightower struts down the streets of London like she owns them, and frankly, she does. Everyone who knows her admires her, and half of them want to be her. Even other commuters ogle her as she walks confidently, her Saint Laurent leather work bag swinging from her arm.
Alicent is a very put-together woman, from her outfits to her attitude. She has a loving family, a very handsome salary, and looks that make married men contemplate affairs.
She’s always been like this, at least from an outsider’s perspective. Top marks every year at her all-girls boarding school. Perfect yearbook photos, perfect friends. From a young age, she excelled in horseback riding, and she even won a ribbon at a show three weeks after her mother died.
“You’re so courageous,” everyone said to her afterward. Alicent just smiled because she learned from a young age that appearances matter more than feelings.
Her father, Otto Hightower, is the CEO and owner of a massive pharmaceutical company based mainly out of London. He craves prestige and for Alicent’s entire life, he maintained the importance of perseverance, determination, and self-preservation.
Alicent credits these three core values as having made her so successful. Her father's values, along with her work ethic and drive to do better than all the men around her.
Alicent smiles at the security guards as she swipes into the building.
“Good morning, Alicent,” the guard greets her.
“Good morning, Erryk,” she says back, heading toward the lift. She doesn’t have to look back to know the guard’s eyes are on her.
Her phone buzzes while she waits. It’s a text from her daughter’s nanny, sharing a photo of her girl playing outside. Getting these photos is always depressing for Alicent, who constantly feels bad about not spending enough time with her daughter. But she pushes down the emotion as she steps into the lift.
Growing up, boys from Alicent's brother's school fawned all over her. She ignored them, making them want her all the more. She was too busy focusing on her studies and waiting for university to finally date.
Then, by the end of her first year at Cambridge, she was going out with Criston Cole, a cute boy who played for the school’s cricket team. He was the envy of many girls, and Alicent liked that about him.
Criston worshipped Alicent almost to a pathetic level. He took her to her first parties and showed her off. He bought her expensive necklaces and brought her out to fancy dinners. But Alicent always paid. She refused to let any man undermine her, especially her boyfriend.
Alicent passed her solicitor examinations basically right after graduation and by the end of her two years of qualifying work experience, Criston and she were married. Criston’s tech start-up grew into a successful business, while Alicent worked at a corporate firm for another two years before transferring to her father’s company.
Keen to prove that she deserved her general counsel position, Alicent worked harder than any of the other solicitors. For five years, she spent tireless hours on tedious contracts and dealing with opposing legal teams made up of old white men. She did all this while looking amazing and giving birth to her first child.
Her friends would say, “Alicent, I just don’t know how you do it all.” Alicent always responded with a laugh and a shrug. Sometimes, throwing in a compliment to Criston. To be nice, of course.
All the long nights eventually paid off because, by the time Alicent turned thirty-two, her father promoted her to Chief Legal Officer, the head of the entire legal unit, and manager of over sixty employees.
Now, she’s about to embark on her second summer in the position. Her daughter Helaena is four, and Criston and her have even decided to start trying for another baby. It’s a perfect life she lives. And Alicent has no intention of letting anything change that.
She taps her foot as the lift hums and thinks through her to-do list in her head.
1. Tell Criston to pick up more of those dried mango snacks for Helaena on his way home— He’ll forget otherwise.
2. Review and send back the first draft of the contract with Stark Corps.
3. Do another teeth whitening strip tonight, and maybe skip the second cup of coffee today. There is enough staining already.
When the doors open, Alicent steps out onto the 18th floor, one of three floors owned by TowerGreen. The office is aflutter with people, and the sun shines through the large windows.
Alicent enjoys the sound of her heels clicking against the floor as she makes her way to her office. Her auburn curls are down, some tucked perfectly behind her right ear. Her make up is done as always, a natural look that accentuates her long lashes and plump lips.
She’s in a black high-neck sleeveless shirt paired with a fitted blazer which she plans to ditch once in her office. Her pants are also black, high-waisted, and cut off at her ankles. Her heels are tan. It’s all very domineering, very chic.
Alicent smiles as she enters her corner office. The view is immaculate through the floor-to-ceiling windows, and the interior glass walls really open up the space. On command, she can fog the walls so no one can see in, but she really just does that for important meetings.
“Good morning, darling,” Laenor says as he strolls casually into her office. Alicent starts up her computer.
“You’re in a good mood today,” Alicent grins from behind her desk.
“Of course, I’m excited to get our new interns,” he responds, sitting in one of the comfy chairs.
Right, Alicent thinks. The new summer interns start today. Eleven law students, all between the ages of twenty-one and twenty-four. Last summer, they had allowed in some older interns, but Alicent much preferred the younger ones.
They looked at her with something close to desire. They envied her position and coveted her control. The older interns saw her as a boss. Well, their boss’s boss since Alicent has her subordinates manage the intern program. She doesn't have the time for that.
“Really?” She asks Laenor.
“Yes. People to shove off the grunt work too. Fuck ya, I’m excited,” Laenor laughs.
“Well, let’s hope you chose competent people then,” Alicent says, shooing Laenor out of the seat, so she can readjust its location to sit parallel with the other chair.
If Laenor weren’t also her best friend, she would chastise him for talking about shirking his responsibilities. But she trusts his work ethic and knows he would never speak like this if others were around. She’s his boss and needs him to show respect publicly, which, thankfully, he does.
“Are they here already?” Alicent asks as she sits behind her desk.
“Ya, Talya has started their orientation in the conference room.” Laenor walks and stands behind Alicent, looking over the work laid out on her screen.
“How do they look?” Alicent opens Outlook to a very full inbox.
“Young. I swear they looked older when I interviewed them,” Laenor responds, and Alicent laughs.
“They aren’t that much younger than us…” Alicent says as she opens up the first email.
“Twelve years is a lot,” Laenor responds, feigning offense.
“Speak for yourself. I’m only thirty-three.”
“Ten years is still a lot, honey,” Laenor says with a pat on Alicent’s shoulder.
“Shouldn’t you be at the orientation now?” Alicent says, turning to Laenor. “Let’s not forget last year when Larys snagged the intern you wanted to mentor first.”
“See, this is why you’re the boss,” Laenor jokes. “Off to survey the stock,” he adds, already halfway out the office door.
When he’s gone, Alicent gets to work on proofreading the Stark contract. She takes a meeting with Orwyle, her deputy chief legal officer, and has a Zoom with the head of the commercial law unit, which is housed in the Oxford branch.
Three exhausting hours later, Alicent watches a parade of people outside her office.
She spots four members of her senior counsel— Laenor, Talya, Larys, and Jason, along with a handful of general counselors. They’re followed by a wave of fresh faces. The new interns.
Alicent pats the crumbs from her morning snack off her lap and prepares herself to meet them. It’s not that she’s nervous, but Alicent likes to make a good impression, especially considering most of the interns are men who might think they can undermine her simply because she is a woman.
She waits for them all to enter one of the communal working areas before heading out to meet them.
“Hello,” Alicent grins as she steps into the open space. The interns who had been previously chatting while sitting around a large table all fell quiet. Their heads turn to Alicent.
“I’m Alicent Hightower, as I’m sure many of you know.” She flashes them her brightest smile. “I am excited to welcome you all here for the summer. I know you will all learn a lot and hopefully form useful connections. We take our internship program very seriously here, so my office is open if you need anything at all.” She adds the last bit in to make sure she sounds charismatic.
There are so many new faces in front of her that she really doesn’t process any of them. Instead, she walks over to Laenor to stand by the kitchenette bar as the interns go back to chatting.
“I’m about to brew another pot of coffee, if you want some?” He says.
Alicent shakes her head. Another cup is another chance to stain her teeth even more.
“Everyone seems excited to be here,” she says as she leans back against the counter, looking at the interns and lawyers mingling.
“That’s because you just joined the party,” Laenor laughs, and Alicent rolls her eyes playfully.
Laenor starts the coffee machine and turns back to Alicent. He pulls a stapled document out from under his arm and puts it on the counter. Alicent turns to look down at it.
“I need you to add edits to this report,” he says. “I already went through it, but I think you should take a look before I send it back to the commerce department.”
Alicent leans over the document begrudgingly. She doesn’t particularly want to do this. Her plate is already way too full, but if Laenor asks, she’ll do it.
Alicent fumbles in her pocket for a pen to start the editing while Laenor goes to get a mug for his coffee, but to her annoyance, she can’t find one. Alicent groans. She always keeps a pen in her pocket. She hates being unprepared.
“Here,” a smooth voice says from behind her just as she was about to turn around and walk to her office. The skin on Alicent’s neck prickles at the voice.
She turns to see one of the interns standing there, holding out a sleek black pen. It’s one of the few women interns, and she’s smiling with her mouth shut, pink lips glued together.
The woman is blonde, with a jawline to challenge those chiseled in marble by the Greeks. Her eyes are warm blue, and her hair stops right at her chin. It has a sort of slick back look, which pairs well with her slacks and breezy blue button-up. She looks effortlessly put together in a way that makes Alicent almost jealous.
Alicent furrows a brow at the intern.
“Were you listening to our conversation?” Alicent asks a bit harshly as she gestures to Laenor. The woman’s appearance has taken her by surprise. Alicent hates being surprised.
“No, no. I just have a thing for knowing what people need,” the intern smiles, pushing the pen forward.
“Thanks,” Alicent says, still skeptical of this woman. But she takes the pen anyway. Another annoying intern, she thinks, trying to kiss the boss’s ass.
“Ah, I see you’ve met Rhaenyra,” Laenor says, coming over with his mug full of coffee. Alicent’s head moves back and forth between the two.
“Not officially,” Rhaenyra smiles and extends her hand out to Alicent. “Hello, Mrs. Hightower, I’m Rhaenyra Targaryen. I’m very excited to spend my summer here.” She puts a heavy emphasis on the word very.
At least she’s polite, Alicent thinks as she shakes Rhaenyra’s hand.
“If you need anything, my office is open,” Alicent smiles, but it’s forced.
“Right, you said before,” Rhaenyra says with a slight smirk. Then, she turns and goes back to chatting with other interns.
“She’s definitely my top choice,” Laenor says as he steps toward Alicent. “Her resume is out of this world. And I like her vibes, too. Kinda reminds me of you... If you were a fashionable lesbian.” He gives Alicent a little joking nudge.
Alicent nods, but she’s not really listening. There’s something odd about Rhaenyra, something that unsettles Alicent. Maybe it’s her piercing eye contact or how Rhaenyra confidently holds herself in the face of authority. Or maybe Laenor’s right, and while Alicent normally likes female interns, perhaps Rhaenyra is a bit too familiar.
“You know what, Laenor, I would love a cup of coffee,” Alicent says as her eyes flick over to Rhaenyra. The blonde is staring at her, and their eyes meet.
Instead of glancing away like a normal person, Rhaenyra holds up her coffee cup with a nod. Alicent gives a half smile and turns away. She grips onto the mug Laenor offers, trying to ignore the shiver running through her body. She pushes away the feeling and goes about the rest of her day with gritted teeth.
During the week, Alicent sees little of the interns. She’s busy reviewing the arbitration team's recent filings and heading up two new major commercial contracts.
On top of all of that, Helaena spent the last two days sick, and now her nanny, Elinda, has called out after catching the bug herself. Thankfully, Criston took off the rest of the week to stay home and watch the four-year-old.
He’s always doing things like that, dropping everything at Alicent’s beck and call, doing whatever she asks. He even took her last name when they got married. Cole is too common anyways. The Hightowers has a much better ring to it.
Generally, Alicent thinks it's nice to have such a devoted husband, but honestly, it’s not the biggest turn-on for her. In fact, it's probably the main reason they don’t have sex very often. Part of Alicent thinks Criston only suggested trying for another baby because he just wants to fuck her again.
On Friday morning, Alicent is in the middle of a case review when Laenor walks into her office.
“We have split up the interns, and I am officially mentoring Rhaenyra!” Laenor smiles, plopping down into one of the chairs.
The chairs are midcentury modern and burnt orange, an aesthetic complement to the dark green plants growing on top of Alicent’s large bookshelf, which sits against one of the glass walls. The rest of the furniture is a warm dark wood, except for the black leather chair behind Alicent’s desk.
“Great,” Alicent says, faking enthusiasm. She has work to do and just got rid of the unsettling feeling Rhaenyra gave her days prior. “Did you come here just to tell me that?”
“No… I thought I’d come to check on you,” Laenor responds, clearly confused by Alicent’s annoyed tone.
“Check on me?” Alicent swallows. She’s thinking about the awkward interaction from Monday. The one where she repeated to Rhaenyra that her office is open for business. Had it been so embarrassing that Laenor wants to discuss it with her now?
“Ya…” Laenor says, questioning the nervousness creeping across Alicent’s face. “You told me that both Helaena and Elinda are sick. I just wanted to see if you were still feeling fine.”
Right, Alicent thinks, letting out a breath. That’s a perfectly normal reason to check on your friend. Alicent gets up from behind her desk and goes to sit in the other orange chair next to Laenor.
“I’m feeling great. It’s nice you're worried.” Alicent tries to put on her sweetest voice to make up for whatever panicked look she has on her face.
Laenor gives Alicent a skeptical glance, so Alicent reaches into her pocket to help ease the tension.
“Helaena seems to be doing better, too.” Alicent unlocks her phone and swipes to her messages with Criston. She opens a photo he sent of Helaena smiling with a marker in her little fist. Alicent hands the phone to Laenor, who coos at the photo while Alicent leans back in her chair.
“Her last name is so familiar…” Alicent thinks out loud as her mind drifts back to a certain blonde intern. Laenor hands Alicent back her phone, clearly confused.
“Because it's the same as yours?” He responds.
“No, not Heleana,” Alicent says as she stands and leans back against her desk. “I’m talking about your mentee.”
“Rhaenyra?”
“Ya, her.” Alicent doesn’t know why she’s being so vague or why she’s even brought up Rhaenyra in the first place.
“It’s because her dad is Viserys Targaryen, the Tory MP,” Laenor says as if Alicent should have already known. After all, Viserys was the Leader of the House of Commons only a couple of years back.
“Oh wow,” Alicent says, connecting the image of that old conservative man with Rhaenyra, the intern. “That must be why she’s so confident.”
Laenor laughs and leans forward.
“I’m not sure she’s actually that confident. I think it’s a facade.”
“Really?” Alicent can’t hide the surprise in her voice.
“Ya. We’ve gotten to chat over the past week, and she seems really down to earth. She even said she was super nervous meeting you.” Laenor smirks because he knows how much his friend will eat up that last comment.
Alicent rolls her eyes at his grin, but she does, in fact, love to hear that Rhaenyra had been nervous to meet her. Maybe she hadn’t been that awkward during their first meeting. Maybe Rhaenyra is unsettling because nerves are leaking out of her pores. That sounds right. It’s just the case of a young intern idolizing her boss.
This story stops Alicent from thinking about Rhaenyra the entire weekend. And by the following Monday, Alicent is over trying to figure out what happened to make her freak out over a stupid twenty-some-year-old.
After a tiring meeting on Tuesday morning, Alicent walks to the fridge in the communal area, her fingers rubbing her temples. God, the men she works with can be so infuriating. And, of course, she is always the one who has to maintain a calm demeanor while the men fly off the handle.
Alicent pulls a mug out of the cabinet and goes to fill the coffee maker. She’s completely given up on one cup a day. Her life is too hard to maintain without an absurd amount of caffeine.
“Good afternoon, Mrs. Hightower,” a familiar voice says from behind Alicent.
Her skin tingles as if telling her to run. It’s flight response, but instead of fleeing, Alicent turns around to greet Rhaenyra.
“Hello, Rhaenyra,” Alicent says, the coffee machine gurgling behind her.
The intern is in a Polo shirt, with her sleeves rolled up to her elbows. Her blonde hair is slicked back like the first day they met. She’s slightly taller than Alicent— well, she would be if Alicent weren’t always in heels.
“Feel free to just call me Alicent,” Alicent adds as Rhaenyra steps past her to fill up her water bottle in the sink.
“Sorry. I didn’t want to be disrespectful,” Rhaenyra responds, her voice smooth. She flashes a smile at Alicent.
Shit, her teeth are white, and they make Alicent regret getting another coffee. They also make Alicent want to shove Rhaenyra against a wall and pour coffee down her throat. Instead, she shakes her head at Rhaenyra's apology and changes the subject.
“So your dad is an MP,” Alicent states. She lets her voice go up a little at the end, so it seems like she’s asking. She’s not.
“Yes. He is,” Rhaenyra says, not at all taken aback by the comment. But then she frowns while twisting the cap onto her water bottle. “Did you just realize? I assumed you knew when I introduced myself.”
Alicent bites the inside of her cheek to stop from giving a bratty smile. Of course, Rhaenyra thinks everyone knows who she is.
“No, I didn’t,” Alicent replies as she turns back to face the coffee maker. “Laenor mentioned it.”
“You were talking about me?” Rhaenyra's frown shifts to a smile as she leans her side against the counter.
“We talk about all the interns.” Alicent stares at the dripping coffee like her life depends on it.
“Of course,” Rhaenyra says with an air of skepticism.
A growing frustration builds in Alicent, and she looks over at Rhaenyra. The intern is gripping her water bottle tightly like she’s trying to choke it.
Alicent's breath catches, and she stares at Rhaenyra’s fingers. They are covered in multiple rings.
“I don’t talk to my father, by the way,” Rhaenyra says, forcing Alicent to rip her eyes from her hand to her face.
“What?” Alicent isn’t sure why Rhaenyra is telling her this personal information.
“If you were thinking that he helps me career-wise. He doesn’t. I don’t talk to him.” Rhaenyra’s voice is earnest, like she’s genuinely trying to share with Alicent. The sincere look in her eyes makes Alicent’s annoyance lessen.
“Oh, I wasn’t thinking….” Alicent was, in fact, thinking that very thought. “That’s hard.”
“Eh... It’s fine,” Rhaenyra says, her voice snapping back into its smooth and easy rhythm. “His politics don’t really match mine.”
“Right, he doesn’t really support the queer community,” Alicent nods, gesturing to Rhaenyra.
“No, he doesn’t,” Rhaenyra sighs. “But also, I’m not gay.” Alicent’s face goes bright red, and she panics as Rhaenyra stares directly at her, looking... Offended? Confused? Embarassed for Alicent's blunder.
“I’m sorry I —” Alicent rushes, but Rhaenyra cuts her off.
“I’m kidding, Alicent,” Rhaenyra smirks, and suddenly, Alicent regrets telling the intern to call her by her name. She grinds her teeth in response.
“Very funny,” Alicent says sarcastically. She’s very over this conversation.
Alicent turns back to the now-finished coffee maker, picks up the pot, and starts pouring.
“Have you ever been with a woman?”
Alicent flinches, and coffee spills onto the counter. She puts the pot down, trying to wrap her head around the question that just fell so casually out of Rhaenyra’s mouth. What the actual fuck… Alicent turns and looks at Rhaenyra.
“What?” Alicent says, her brows furrowed and eyes glaring with a mix of shock and anger.
“I’m sorry that was completely inappropriate,” Rhaenyra responds with a little laugh, like the question was just another joke.
But Alicent doesn’t think Rhaenyra is actually sorry. In fact, Alicent thinks Rhaenyra seems very satisfied with the little rise she got out of Alicent. The intern’s eyes are looking down at the spilled coffee.
“I should be getting back to work now,” Rhaenyra says as she looks back at Alicent’s still shocked expression.
“Right, same,” Alicent responds, annoyed that Rhaenyra got to be the one to end the conversation. Rhaenyra starts to walk away, but then turns back.
“I’ll see you tomorrow evening at the start of the summer event.”
Alicent gives a half smile in reply. The start of the summer event is held in the second week of the intern program every year. It’s a time when everyone from the London office comes together. Every department and all interns are invited.
Usually, Alicent enjoys the function. TowerGreen closes down an entire upscale restaurant, and everyone dresses up. It’s a tradition that the next day, the majority of the employees are hungover.
But now, for the first time in her seven years working at the company, Alicent is dreading the event. All because of this frustratingly confident intern.
That night, when Alicent sits in bed, she’s still thinking about the conversation with Rhaenyra. Her back is pushed up against the headboard, and she rubs lotion into her palms.
She feels stupid for not disciplining Rhaenyra for asking such an inappropriate question to her boss of all people. Alicent is normally great at laying down the law, but with Rhaenyra, she just stood there in shock. Alicent wishes had said something and wonders if she should next time she sees her.
“You good?” Criston’s voice infiltrates her thoughts.
Alicent looks up to see him pull off his shirt, so he’s in nothing but his boxer. Criston needs a haircut, she thinks. She will put it on his list.
“I’m fine,” Alicent smiles, realizing she had been rubbing in the lotion with too much vigor to be normal.
“Did you confirm that Elinda is able to watch Helaena tomorrow night?” She deflects.
“Yes, love,” Criston responds as he takes off his watch.
“And you remembered to pick up your blazer?”
“Yes, went to the dry cleaners after work.” Criston points to one of the closet doors where the blazer hangs. He walks over to Alicent and sits on the edge of the bed.
“I’ve done everything you put on the list this morning,” he smiles like he’s a child waiting for a prize for his good work.
“Thank you,” Alicent says softly, and Criston leans forward and kisses her gently. His hand rests on her shoulder.
Alicent kisses him back, enjoying the momentary relief from her thoughts about work that his lips bring. Criston pushes in deeper, and Alicent can feel his hand move from her shoulder to her breast. She pushes his shoulders back until their lips part. Criston opens his eyes and looks at her like a wounded puppy.
“Not tonight, honey,” Alicent says softly. “I’m just really tired.”
“Ya, no worries,” Criston responds, trying to hide his disappointment as he gets up from the bed. “I’m going to take a shower.”
“Okay,” Alicent smiles, and she squeezes his hand.
She watches her husband shut the toilet door and lets out a long sigh. He’ll be in there for a while since he’s obviously going to jerk off.
Alicent doesn’t care. She’d rather him do that than try anything when he comes back to bed. Anyways, Alicent likes that Criston is likely thinking about her while he touches himself.
He never uses his hands roughly on her, the way he is likely going to town on himself now. No, when they have sex, it’s almost always in missionary, and it’s very vanilla. Criston is always telling her how much he loves her. Always asking if she’s okay, asking what she needs.
It could be worse, Alicent thinks. It’s not like he’s necessarily bad in bed. Criston has nice hands, soft and warm. Alicent likes how they feel on her skin, kind of similar to the feel of a woman’s hands.
Rhaenyra has nice hands, too. Large with protruding veins that move up her forearms. Alicent thinks about how Rhaenyra uses those hands. How she pumps her fingers inside of the women she fucks.
The thought startles Alicent, and she shakes her head. Why is she thinking about the annoying intern’s sex life? Was it because Rhaenyra had asked her if she had ever been with a woman?
The answer is, of course, no. Alicent has only kissed a handful of men, so she’s definitely never with another woman. Was Rhaenyra asking as some kind of power move or because she actually thought Alicent was gay?
Alicent shakes her head at the absurdity. She isn’t gay, and no one has ever thought she was. Sure, she’s watched lesbian porn before. Who hasn’t? It’s hot.
And ya, she’s thought of the idea of a woman fingering her, but it was just curiosity.
Plus, when someone’s fingering you, it’s not like it matters what their gender is as long as they are good at it. Honestly, what really matters is the size and length of their fingers. They need to be long… like Rhaenyra’s.
The last thought makes Alicent quiver. Why the fuck is she thinking about this? Rhaenyra’s fingers and the idea that they might feel good inside of her.
Alicent’s abdomen tightens, and her cunt clenches. She squeezes her thighs together, trying to ignore the heat building as she hears the sound of the shower start.
Alicent can barely believe the way her body is reacting to the thought of a woman, of Rhaenyra, particularly. Slowly, Alicent slips a hand under the covers, moving her palm against the silk of her nightgown. She pushes up the fabric and puts her fingers in between her legs. Her breath hitches when she feels how unbelievably wet she is.
Alicent wants to laugh at the fact that her husband is feet away, pumping his cock at the thought of her while she’s turned on thinking about an intern being inside of her. But she doesn't laugh. She just gets wetter thinking about it all.
Alicent’s mind races. She can’t do what she's about to do. This is insane. She’s lost it. The pressure of work has finally got to her.
But the idea of Rhaenyra inside her, adding another finger, won’t go away. It just grows louder and louder until Alicent is moving her hand lazily over her clit.
Her fingers slide into her slick folds, and she bites on her lip to stifle a moan. Alicent pictures Rhaenyra touching her, smirking while she fucks her.
She wouldn’t have to tell Rhaenyra what to do. The blonde has a way of knowing what people need.
Alicent shuts her eyes tightly as she starts fucking herself in earnest. She rubs circles around her clit, dipping her fingers inside herself and pulling them out, dripping wet. She can't remember the last time she was this needy.
The tension builds in her abdomen as she moves her hand faster. She has to bring her other hand to her mouth, biting down on the flesh to stop moans from escaping her lips. Her husband is just behind that door, but she doesn’t want him. She wants piercing blue eyes staring at her while she grinds her hips for more friction.
Alicent replays the sound of Rhaenyra saying her name as she races toward an orgasm. God, Rhaenyra is fucking annoying. She’s so arrogant and overly confident. But somehow, it’s all just turning Alicent on.
She imagines the intern adding a third finger, stretching and pushing her over the edge. She hears Rhaenyra telling her to come for her, and Alicent bites down even harder as waves of pleasure ripple through her body.
Her body pulses as she slowly comes down from the high. Then she pulls her hand out from between her legs, and her eyes widen in panic. What the fuck did she just do?
Alicent prays Criston didn’t hear her. She prays she is dreaming. She stares at her fingers, which are literally dripping with her own fluids, and her mind races.
Criston is going to know, he’s going to smell her scent if she wipes her hand off on the sheet. In a moment of fear, Alicent stuffs her fingers into her mouth, sucking on the taste of herself.
Her chest still heaves as she breathes through her nose. Her tongue laps up her own slick, the slightly salty taste filling her mouth. She inhales every last drop of evidence before removing her clean fingers.
Alicent then pulls the blankets up to her chest. She feels mortified at what she just did, at who she thought of while she touched her. The shower turns off, and Alicent shrinks into bed. She flips off her light and turns on her side, hoping Criston might think she’s out.
Eventually, Alicent falls asleep wondering if she’s gone insane, and vows to herself that this will never happen again.
By morning, Alicent has locked away her lapse in judgment, deciding to pretend it never happened. She showers like she does every morning, and when her thoughts stray to last night, she forces herself to switch to a new topic.
Alicent says goodbye to Criston like always, makes sure Elinda is all good to stay for the evening, and kisses Helaena on the head before heading to work. It’s her perfect life, and if she wants to forget whatever the fuck happened last night, then that is her right.
The day plays out with relative ease. Alicent spends most of her time with Talya, working through the possible legal ramifications of a new drug TowerGreen hopes to mass-produce. She spots a couple of interns walking by her office, but none of them are Rhaenyra. Not that she would care since nothing happened last night.
By the time it comes to change into her evening outfit, Alicent has basically convinced herself that nothing out of the ordinary is occurring. She fogs the glass windows and starts to change by removing her skirt and blouse. She pulls out her outfit from the coat closet next to the bookshelf and then puts on the silk dress.
A knock at her door alerts her of Laenor’s arrival, and before she can say come in, he’s already entering the office.
“Well, don’t you look fit,” he says as he stares her up and down.
Alicent is currently slipping on her cream-colored heels to match her forest green dress. It’s long with a slit up the right and two pearls on each side where the thin straps meet the rest of the dress. The front plunges down in a V that is both sexy and respectable for a work event.
“You too,” Alicent smiles. Laenor is wearing a pair of light blue linen pants and a matching blazer. “Very summery.”
“Thanks, babes, that was the plan,” he grins as he collects Alicent’s old clothing and puts them away in the coat closet.
As soon as Alicent finishes putting in her pearl earrings, they head out of the office together. A car is waiting downstairs to take them to the restaurant, and Laenor spends the entire ride filling Alicent in on his newest boy adventure. She’s so invested in his love life that she forgets all about the interns who will be at the event.
When they enter the restaurant, Alicent spots Criston right away. His hair is freshly cut, just like she asked him, and he’s chatting with her father. Laenor and Alicent join them, and Criston slips his arm around Alicent’s waist.
“Ah, Alicent and Laenor, you both look lovely,” Otto says before asking them both about their current work projects. Otto can be nice, but work is always his first priority. When Leanor slips away to get himself a drink, the conversation turns to Criston’s newest acquisition offer.
“I’m just not sure if we want to sell now or grow the company more,” he says, and Otto has many opinions that he proceeds to share.
Bored. Alicent is mind-numbingly bored with this asinine conversation. She spots the closest bar and decides she can use both the drink and the escape.
“I’ll be right back,” she says, slipping out of Criston’s hold.
Alicent sighs as she navigates through the sea of predominantly men and over to the bar. She orders a cosmopolitan, and while she waits, she looks for Laenor. Normally, by forty-five minutes into the summer event, he is already tipsy and has plenty of fun. Her eyes scan the room, but she can’t find him.
Alicent sighs as she turns back around to get her drink from the bartender.
“If you’re looking for Laenor, he just stepped outside to make a call.”
Alicent’s heart skips a beat, and she turns her head to the side to see Rhaenyra standing there, her eyes fixed on Alicent. The memory of the night prior comes rushing back to Alicent, and her face starts to turn red.
She grabs her cosmo from the bartender and takes a sip immediately. She watches as Rhaenyra orders a gin and tonic.
Rhaenyra looks good, great actually, if Alicent is being honest. She’s wearing a short-sleeved white button-up with a black leather vest on top. She’s paired it with blue slacks and black oxfords.
Rhaenyra’s got to be warm in that outfit, but somehow, there isn’t a drip of sweat on her forehead. It’s actually infuriating because Alicent is in way less clothing, but she has had to push her hair back multiple times because it's so hot in the restaurant.
“Was I right?” Rhaenyra smiles, stepping closer to Alicent.
“Yes. I was looking for him,” Alicent admits, taking another gulp of her drink. She really doesn’t want Rhaenyra to come any closer. “And why are you always doing that?” Alicent adds.
“Doing what?” Rhaenyra asks innocently.
“Sneaking up on me,” Alicent responds in a tone she hopes gives “boss,” not “I masturbated last night thinking about you.”
“I’m not sneaking up on you, Alicent,” Rhaenyra laughs as she takes her drink from the bartender. “I am just approaching you.”
“When my back is turned,” Alicent says with a tilt of her head.
“A coincidence,” Rhaenyra shrugs.
Alicent wants to shove the blonde. She is infuriating, and the tone in which she speaks is so laissez-faire. Part of Alicent is embarrassed she thought of the intern in a sexual manner simply because of Rhaenyra’s sheer arrogance.
Alicent steps away from the bar, and Rhaenyra follows.
“Is that your husband?” Rhaenyra asks with a nod toward Criston, and suddenly, Alicent feels incredibly anxious.
“Yes,” she confirms, stopping in the middle of the room to take another sip of her drink. Alicent had been planning to join Criston again, now that Laenor is missing in action. But Alicent doesn’t love the idea of introducing Rhaenyra to Criston.
“He’s handsome,” Rhaenyra says.
“Yes, he is,” Alicent responds with a puzzled tone. Rhaenyra is staring at Criston in a way that makes Alicent uncomfortable.
“Did you tell him to get that haircut?” Rhaenyra takes a sip of her gin and tonic.
“Erm, ya… I did.” Alicent is surprised by the question, but her answer seems to end Rhaenyra’s interest in her husband. Rhaenyra turns her blue eyes back on Alicent.
“I like your hair. Color and cut,” Rhaenyra says, her eyes falling on Alicent’s auburn curls.
“Thanks,” Alicent replies. It’s some kind of game, Alicent thinks, some plan to mess with her.
“Who told you to keep your hair like that?”
Alicent shakes her head at the ridiculous question and takes another sip.
“No one,” she says, unable to hide her confusion.
Rhaenyra nods and then looks past Alicent. No explanation, fine.
“There he is,” Rhaenyra grins, pointing at the door that Laenor has just stepped through, and they watch him beeline for the closest bar.
“You should go join him,” Rhaenyra says. “It looks like you need another drink, anyway.”
Alicent looks down and notices that her glass is, in fact, empty.
“I’ll see you later,” Alicent stutters as she turns to walk away. She doesn’t actually want to see Rhaenyra again, but she is the boss, and she needs to keep up appearances.
Joining Laenor at the bar, Alicent orders another cosmo. The two of them find their table, where they sit and gossip while waiting for dinner to be served. Criston joins them, sliding his arm across the back of Alicent’s chair. He does look handsome tonight, Alicent thinks, and she grabs his hand under the table.
Somewhere in between the chicken arriving at the table and Otto’s quick speech, Alicent has ordered a third drink. Laenor is on his fourth, and Talya has already threatened to take him home early if he doesn’t stop texting his new man.
“It’s embarrassing,” she says, trying to advise him that the man will think he’s clingy if he sends too many drunk texts.
Alicent wonders if she’s going to need to order a fourth drink tonight. She looks over at the bar to see if there is a line. There isn’t, since most people are in their seats enjoying their food and the company.
“Gay people don’t mind getting lots of texts. It’s different for us,” Laenor argues when Talya tries to take his phone. He slurs a little, and both Criston and Alicent laugh. Larys, who’s also at the table, just shakes his head.
“I don’t think that’s true,” Criston chimes in, reaching over and taking the phone.
“Pfff. You guys wouldn’t get it,” Laenor protests, pointing at his four friends. Alicent giggles and puts down her drink, thinking maybe she should stop for the night. Laenor pouts, clearly wanting his phone back.
“Where’s Rhaenyra?” He groans, and Alicent’s chest tightens. “Bring her over here. She’ll explain it.”
No, she should not come over here, Alicent thinks. She has decided she does not under any circumstances want Rhaenyra talking to Criston. It had been hot last night, thinking about him in the shower while she was occupied with thoughts of Rhaenyra. But to see them talking, Alicent isn’t sure if it’ll turn her own or melt her into a puddle of shame. Neither outcomes are wanted at the moment.
“I have to go to the loo,” Alicent says abruptly as she pushes her chair back from the table. Criston gives her a look, but Laenor and Talya are too busy arguing back and forth to notice Alicent’s sudden shift.
Alicent walks quickly to the women’s toilets and pushes the door open. It’s quiet inside, and she welcomes the dark silence. It’s one of those moody bathrooms, where everything is so shiny it’s reflective.
Alicent braces her hands against the counter and looks into the mirror, fixing her hair. She feels a little dizzy from the two-and-a-half cosmos and has to bite her lip until the feeling passes. She normally doesn't drink this much at these events, but if things go her way, she’ll be pregnant again soon enough. So fuck it, she deserves the extra drinks tonight.
One of the stalls creeks open behind Alicent, and when she sees it’s Rhaenyra, Alicent contemplates running out instantly. She doesn’t, though. She just watches Rhaenyra through the mirror.
“Look who’s sneaking up on me now,” Rhaenyra says cooly as she comes next to Alicent.
“I didn’t realize anyone was in here,” Alicent says. She can’t tell if she’s annoyed to be forced into this chat or relieved that Rhaenyra is not currently being introduced to Criston.
“Surprise,” Rhaenyra replies as she turns on the faucet. "I think it's just me, though."
Alicent nods and glances down at the sink in front of Rhaenyra. Those hands, those fingers, glistening as the water falls onto them.
“Makes sense since most of the people out there are men,” Alicent says absently after forcing herself to avert her gaze.
“Ya, it must be hard as one of the only women in charge here,” Rhaenyra says, looking at Alicent in the mirror.
“It takes a lot of confidence,” Alicent replies, staring back at Rhaenyra’s reflection.
“Is that how you got to your position? Confidence?” Rhaenyra asks as she moves to the paper towel dispenser. Alicent’s eyes fix on the real person now, watching her dry her hands and toss the paper in the basket.
“I got here by hard work… I see myself as...”
“….A person under a lot of pressure to succeed,” Rhaenrya finishes, cutting off Alicent.
They are standing across from each other now, the dim lights bouncing off the black walls. Alicent thinks she should leave as the unsettling feeling has returned. She doesn’t go though, just folds her arms across her chest.
“There is a lot of pressure, ya,” Alicent agrees.
“And you like success,” Rhaenyra adds, placing a hand against the counter. She furrows her eyes at Alicent. “You're a power-hungry personality.”
Alicent scoffs, and the unsettled feeling shifts to annoyance.
“Is that what you think I am?” Alicent questions.
“I think you like to be told what to do,” Rhaenyra says, like it’s a completely normal response. Her blue eyes are pushing into Alicent, daring her to respond.
“Excuse me?” Alicent gasps, trying to comprehend Rhaenyra’s statement. She should yell at her, fire her, but Alicent doesn’t. She just shakes her head in disbelief.
“Never mind,” Rhaenyra says casually, and she moves toward the door, passing Alicent on her way.
It’s a reflex, Alicent doesn't think. She just reaches out her hand and grabs Rhaenyra’s arm. Their eyes lock.
“What did you mean by that?” Alicent asks, as her pulse increases with every second. Rhaenyra steps back, forcing Alicent to drop her grip.
"Your father… your husband….your colleagues…” Rhaenyra raises her eyebrows.
“They don’t tell me what to do,” Alicent snaps, and Rhaenyra grins.
“Exactly…. You control them,” Rhaenyra explains like she knows every single thing about the other woman. Alicent shakes her head. This is ridiculous. Yes, she runs a tight ship, but she likes it. She likes being in control. Doesn’t she?
“And that's why you’re not satisfied,” Rhaenyra adds, letting out a deep exhale through her nose. She wets her lips with her tongue, smiling when she sees Alicent eyeing the movement.
“You’re playing a dangerous game, Rhaenyra,” Alicent says sternly, directing her gaze back to Rhaenyra’s eyes.
“Am I?” Rhaenyra teases, and Alicent knows her body is betraying her. Knows that if she put her hand between her thighs right now, it would come out dripping.
“I’m your boss,” Alicent states, trying to hold onto reality. She is married. She is straight. She is in control.
“Out there, maybe.” Rhaenyra takes another step back, letting her eyes move up and down Alicent’s body.
“But in the loo, I’m not?” Alicent questions, ignoring her heartbeat, which now thunders in her ears.
"When we’re alone… you’re not.”
That’s it. This isn’t a game anymore. Rhaenyra has crossed a line, and Alicent is letting it happen while her perfect life sits right outside the bathroom door. Alicent repeats her values in her head. Perseverance, determination, self-preservation.
She can’t stay in here. She can’t trust herself. Alicent turns away from Rhaenyra and moves toward the door. She’s about to grab the door handle when she hesitates. Self-preservation Alicent repeats, come on.
“Why did you come in here?” Rhaenyra asks. She’s right behind Alicent now. “You didn't use the toilet. So what was it then? Needed a moment to collect yourself, to prepare to play the role you constantly perform.”
Alicent swallows, nervously trying to ignore the craving coursing through her body.
“No." Alicent stutters, still facing the door, not daring to turn around and face Rhaenyra. "Laenor wanted you to come to the table.”
“And?”
“I didn’t want to be there if you came,” Alicent admits, and she can feel the heat of Rhaenyra behind her.
“Why?” Rhaenyra asks.
Alicent just shakes her head. She can’t say why. She can’t tell the blonde that since the moment they met, something has been stirring inside of her. Something that even now, Alicent isn’t completely sure what it is.
Suddenly, Alicent can feel Rhaenyra’s breath on her neck. There’s no touch, just heat, but it’s enough to make Alicent weak.
“What are you doing?” Alicent manages to get out between shallow breaths.
“I can satisfy you,” Rhaenyra breathes against Alicent’s ear.
Slowly, Rhaenyra brings her fingertips to Alicent’s thigh. She runs her fingers along the silk, moving up to Alicent’s hip.
Alicent glances down the hand around her body, and she knows with certainty those fingers would feel so good inside of her.
“Do you want me to stop?” Rhaenyra asks, bringing her other hand to Alicent’s hip so she’s holding her in place.
Alicent shakes her head “no” and lets out a small gasp at her own reaction.
“Let go of control, Alicent,” Rhaenyra whispers, and she turns Alicent with her hands. Now, they are face to face with Alicent’s back almost against the door.
Alicent’s perfect life, it’s all about to be ruined. Her marriage, her career. She’s playing with fire. Alicent worked so hard for it all, but she’s so tired of working.
Alicent leans forward to kiss Rhaenyra, throwing everything to the wind. But the blonde pulls back before Alicent can reach. Rhaenyra lets out a little snigger, completely satisfied. Then she pushes her lips against Alicent’s with force.
Rhaenyra’s mouth is all-consuming, and Alicent craves the sensation of Rhaenyra’s tongue pushing into her mouth. Rhaenyra’s hands slide up into Alicent’s hair, taking fistfuls. Her grip is hard, and the slight sting on Alicent’s scalp only urges her further.
Alicent presses her own tongue into Rhaenyra’s mouth, tasting the gin that lingers. She’s grabbing at Rhaenyra’s leather vest, holding onto it for dear life.
Rhaenyra’s in control, running her tongue down Alicent’s throat and then bringing her mouth to crash back into Alicent’s lips. She’s pulling Alicent deeper into the loo and pushing her back against the counter. The stone pushes into Alicent as Rhaenyra devours her.
It’s hot and heavy, and Rhaenyra’s hands are sliding up Alicent’s legs when, suddenly, there is a round of applause from outside of the bathroom. Another speech is over, signifying the break between dinner and dessert. The perfect time to use the loo.
Rhaenyra pulls back quickly. She fixes her vest and straightens out her collar before smoothing out her hair. She looks as if nothing just happened.
Alicent, on the other hand, looks a mess. Her face is flushed, and her lips are swollen.
Rhaenyra grins at the shocked look on Alicent’s face. She reaches out and tosses some of Alicent’s hair to the side, then tucks it behind her ear. She gives a satisfied look like Alicent is some doll that she just dressed perfectly.
Rhaenyra brings her hand from Alicent’s curls to her cheek. The touch is gentle, and Alicent looks into her blue eyes, searching for some answer to what just happened. Rhaenyra smiles at her softly.
“Baby girl,” she coos as she cups Alicent’s cheek, and Alicent’s heart stops again. She watches Rhaenyra pull back and step around her.
Rhaenyra walks out of the bathroom, leaving Alicent standing there alone, a soaking wet mess.
“Fuck,” Alicent gasps as she tries to pull herself together, but the pieces are too scattered.