Shorts Series: Alternate Universe - Kai’s What If - 2037/2038
Being around kids always brought out the best in Jessica. Perhaps it was because she could give them something that she herself never got as a child… (aka love… attention… more love… you know the jyst) though, honestly, she didn’t know the exact answer to why she adored kids. What she did know is simply that she did. Maybe there was also a part of these interactions that made her a tinge bit sad. In the back of her mind locked up and hidden away she knew that she’d probably never have any of her own. Sure, Jessica hadn’t went to a doctor since her first miscarriage, but there was something in her heart that knew she couldn’t handle that… kind of information if it came from the source. She didn’t want to hear from the doctor the words she already knew… that Jessica Pierce wasn’t meant to have kids in this world. Hell, she was probably meant to have died years earlier but here we fcking are - stuck in this endless hell scape living for the sake of her friends and family. Truly, she felt like a ghost in her own body most of the time.
Bringing her attention back to the baby in her hands - one who had fallen asleep soon after finishing the bottle - Jessica allowed her hand to caress the child’s chubby cheeks. She was tiny… honestly she couldn’t have been more than a few weeks… maybe a month old at most. So… perhaps the biggest question in her mind at the moment is… why did Kai have this baby? It had to be his - she could see that much in the little’s girls features and eyes. But, if she recalled correctly, his kids with the princess were far older then this. Did the Princess have another child? Did someone else have Kai’s child - it wouldn’t be a surprise as the affair rumors were even present years earlier. But then, why leave with just one? She knew Kai, she knew he wouldn’t leave his children behind. Trust her, Jessica knew more than anyone that he would choose them over all else. Yes - Jess had connected enough pieces to know that the Princess being pregnant the first time and Kai leaving her overlapped.
But for Kai to be here with nothing but a stroller and a few bags? And the way he looked when he showed up at her door - that didn’t make sense. A sigh left her lips at the unanswered questions revolving in her mind - but honestly, she likely wasn’t going to get an answer anytime soon. The meds Jess had provided to the man alongside his exhaustion… or at least Jessica was guessing on that latter portion… would keep him out for probably 15-20 hours. That would mean he wouldn’t be awake until 5-9 PM… and it was currently 2 AM.
Finally standing up from the couch, Jess brought the baby to her bedroom - creating a little nook for the child to sleep in on the bed with her. Though, even as she laid the child down - Jess knew she likely wouldn’t be able to fall back asleep… her mind was far too much in overdrive.
So did she sleep? No - this time, she simply couldn’t. She had tried for a bit and after about an hour of laying in place with her mind running, she realized it was useless. After making sure the baby was secure in her bed, Jess walked back towards the living room - and… well… ended up going down a rabbit hole she probably shouldn’t have.
Let’s just say… over the past few years Jessica had actively avoided anything to do with the Listaran Royal Family… and anything to do with Kai. It just hurt too much… and truly, what was the point? Jess was sure he was happy… healthy… doing better than she bloody was.
But… Well… with her lack of sleep, endless amount of questions, and clear access to the internet, Jessica simply couldn’t help it. She found herself looking at hundreds of articles, using Dan’s database to find scrubbed articles, and simply read until it was time to do Well… let’s be specific. Technically on google, she found nothing but good things being said about Listara. It was only when she looked at Daniel’s data that she found far more negative articles.
The New York Times
Title: Palace of Power: A Cloistered Kingdom and the Plight of Listaria’s Forgotten
Subtitle: A Harrowing Tale of Monarchy and Misery Unveiled Within the Fabled Walls of the Palace
By: Sarah Torrento
Published: May 5th, 2026
LISTARIA — Amidst the opulent halls and grandeur of Listaria’s ancient palace, an unspeakable truth hides behind the pomp and circumstance of the monarchy. A damning exposé reveals a shocking state of affairs, where the personal comfort and indulgence of the ruling elite take precedence over the well-being of the palace staff and the broader citizenry. The moral compass of this celebrated monarchy appears to be fading, revealing a stark contrast between the regal facade and the underlying reality.
The story unfolds within the vast corridors of the Royal Palace, where the daily struggles of the invisible hands that keep the machinery of the monarchy running are rarely acknowledged. Palace staff, including maids, butlers, and kitchen workers, toil under oppressive conditions, working exhaustive hours for meager wages that barely sustain them and their families. The system perpetuates a cycle of servitude, leaving the palace staff destitute and trapped within the gilded cage.
Disturbing testimonies collected by investigative journalists have shed light on the heart-wrenching tales of mistreatment and disregard for the well-being of these essential workers. Reports of excessive work hours, physical abuse, and lack of basic rights within the palace have surfaced, painting a bleak picture of an institution that has lost touch with the reality of its people. As the monarchy revels in extravagance, the plight of the staff is treated as a mere footnote in the annals of Listaria’s history.
Moreover, the problems plaguing Listaria extend far beyond the palace walls. The populace, loyal and patriotic, have borne the brunt of a growing economic disparity, widening the chasm between the haves and the have-nots. A lack of access to education, healthcare, and essential services has left many citizens grappling with the harsh realities of life while the royal family enjoys an insulated existence.
The Listarian people, known for their resilience and unwavering loyalty to the monarchy, have watched their dreams fade into obscurity as their aspirations are swallowed by a system that favors the elite. The time has come for Listaria to take a hard look at its moral compass and address the festering wounds that have been left unattended for far too long.
The global community must also play its part by holding Listaria accountable. Diplomatic pressures and economic sanctions should be considered as effective means to push for reforms within the kingdom. As the nation’s reputation hangs in the balance, the world must not turn a blind eye to the cries of the oppressed.
Listaria’s monarchy stands at a crossroads. The true measure of a nation lies not in the grandeur of its palaces but in its treatment of its people. It is time for Listaria to reflect on its past, to take responsibility for its present, and to pave a path toward a more just and equitable future.
In the hallowed halls of power, change must come to reign. It is only through the dismantling of oppressive systems and the embrace of a compassionate ethos that Listaria can truly ascend to its rightful place as a beacon of justice and compassion.
As the sun sets on the horizon of Listaria’s legacy, it remains to be seen whether this tale of mistreatment and indifference will become a rallying cry for the forces of change or simply another chapter in the tragic history of the palace’s unchecked power. The world waits with bated breath for Listaria’s response, for the hopes of an entire nation depend on it.
There were quite a few articles like that… detailing the fact that there was mistreatment in both the palace and in the kingdom itself which… honestly was a surprise to Jess. It was an angle to the politics that she hadn’t recognized before. Well… mostly because when she interviewed them, this wasn’t as big of an issue which means it only went downhill… not to mention, Jess knew Kai and if he was in charge, what the fck was he doing. Perhaps she shouldn’t have fazed out what was going on in Listara… not that anyone in the general public would even realize with all the censorship.
The Washington Post
Title: Shadows of Conspiracy: Unraveling the Enigma Surrounding the Assassination Attempt on Listaria’s Princess Anesthesia
Subtitle: A Tale of Intrigue and Ambition that Sends Shockwaves through the Heart of Listaria’s Monarchy
By Jorge Gonzolaz
Published: January 2nd, 2017
LISTARIA — Listaria’s serene monarchy has been jolted by a harrowing assassination attempt that targeted Princess Anesthesia, the rightful heir to the throne. As the nation grapples with this sinister act, speculation abounds regarding the identity of the assailant and their motives. Delving into the shadows of conspiracy, one theory emerges with disturbing clarity — that Princess Evangeline, Anesthesia’s twin sister and next in line to the throne, may hold the most compelling motive behind this audacious plot.
Princess Anesthesia, bearing the weight of the crown-in-waiting, possesses qualities that have endeared her to the people of Listaria. Her popularity, coupled with her vision for a more inclusive and progressive monarchy, has threatened to overshadow Princess Evangeline’s future reign. The perceived threat to her own ambitions and the potential erosion of her power make Evangeline a compelling figure within this intricate web of suspicion.
The complexity of sibling rivalry is no stranger to the annals of history. In the world of royalty, where power, status, and influence intertwine, the bond between sisters can sometimes become a delicate balancing act. The throne, a symbol of authority and prestige, can ignite a fierce fire of ambition, casting shadows of mistrust and treachery even within the closest of relationships.
While the motive behind such a heinous act may appear crystal clear, the assassination attempt on Princess Anesthesia offers a glimpse into a much broader landscape of intrigue and power dynamics. Courtiers, advisors, and other actors within Listaria’s political sphere also hover under the veil of suspicion, driven by their own agendas and desires for influence.
The interconnected nature of palace politics leaves room for an array of possibilities. Foreign powers, threatened by Listaria’s stability and diplomatic prowess, may have orchestrated this assassination attempt to destabilize the monarchy and sow discord within the kingdom’s borders. These external forces seek to exploit the ensuing power struggle for their own strategic advantage.
As investigators sift through the evidence and piece together the puzzle, the truth surrounding this audacious act remains elusive. The identity of the would-be assassin and their precise motives lie at the heart of Listaria’s most pressing mystery, one that holds the potential to reshape the destiny of the monarchy and the nation itself.
While speculation abounds, it is essential to remember that theories are just that — theories. The investigations, conducted with utmost diligence, will unravel the threads of this intricate plot and expose the truth hidden within the shadows. The outcome will not only determine the fate of Princess Anesthesia but will also cast a long-lasting impact on Listaria’s future.
In the wake of this shocking event, Listaria finds itself at a critical juncture. The nation must confront the specter of betrayal and navigate the treacherous waters of power, loyalty, and ambition. It is a test of fortitude and integrity that will define Listaria’s resolve to uphold justice and the principles that underpin its monarchy.
As Listaria holds its breath, the question lingers: Who orchestrated this assassination attempt, and what lies beneath the facade of power and privilege? The truth, when finally revealed, will shape the destiny of a nation, illuminating the path toward a future governed by transparency, accountability, and the preservation of the sacred trust bestowed upon the monarchy.
Only then will Listaria emerge from the shadows, stronger and united, prepared to face the challenges that lie ahead.
Interesting… this was not an article she had found when she did her interview in 2023… the kingdom must have hid it well…
Listarian Daily News
Title: Tragic Hit-and-Run Claims Life of Pregnant Palace Maid in Listaria
LISTARIA — In a heart-wrenching incident, a pregnant palace maid lost her life in a hit-and-run accident, sending shockwaves through Listaria. The unidentified driver callously fled the scene, leaving behind a shattered family and a grieving nation.
The tragedy highlights the urgent need for improved safety measures and stronger legal protections for vulnerable workers within the palace. Listaria must address the broader issues of inequality and prioritize the well-being of all its citizens.
The ongoing investigation aims to bring the perpetrator to justice and send a clear message that such heartless acts will not be tolerated. The loss of this innocent life must serve as a catalyst for change and prompt comprehensive reforms in the kingdom.
Listaria mourns the untimely demise of the palace maid and her unborn child, urging the nation to unite against the injustices that plague its society. The memory of their lives should inspire action to protect and ensure the dignity of all individuals, regardless of their position within the palace walls.
And that seemed to be the most recent news… quickly deleted which was strange. Why would the government take down an article about a hit and run? Well… sure it slightly undermined the kingdom, but it was not in a big newspaper so what was the point? The Listarian people would already know by word of mouth… so what was the censorship for?
For a long time, Jessica got lost in the weeds - reading every article, over analyzing every word… honestly this is usually how her big undercover jobs started… a lot of research. More research than anyone could fathom. The only thing that brought her out of this haze was the small crying from her bedroom. Usually, nothing could bring Jessica out of her research spirals but even in the midst of her falling down the rabbit hole of Listarian corruption, Kai’s child had. Checking the time, Jess found the clock reading 6:34 AM which meant she had truly been at this for the last 3-4 hours. With a sigh, Jess put her laptop… and dozens of notes she had been writing down before walking to the child crying for her. “Morning Darling, How’d you sleep?”
Jessica felt stuck at home waiting for Kai to wake up. There was only so much research she could do before Kai’s child started crying again for either a diaper change, or food, or affection… and part of her mind kept wondering when the man in the other room would awaken… and that thought was maddening. Any thoughts of Malachi Azure was maddening… so at 9:15 AM, Jess decided that she needed to do something else. Okay fine, at the very least, she needed to get some distance between her and a sleeping ex… sooo here she was. An adorable girl in tow - sleeping in her walker.
Did Jessica buy this girl about a dozen new outfits? Yes… yes she did. WHAT? Jessica truly couldn’t help herself. Suffice to say, they had been clothe shopping for most of the morning… from Chanel… to Gucci… to Target. Yes, target. DON’T KNOCK TARGET JESSICA LOVES IT THERE 
and sometimes they do have adorable clothes. And then Jess bought her little toys… and blankets… and beanies because it was COLD outside… and we couldn’t forget a little bed to sleep in, and a little holder so that Jess could keep the little girl against her body without putting her arms around her - which is what she was currently using as she walked around a Whole Foods. Jess had moved on from buying the darling girl things to simply buying things she needed to get anyways.
If anyone’s worried about the sheer amount of things Jess bought - don’t, thankfully Jess’ driver was kind enough to leave her somewhere, drop the items she bought back in her apartment, and do it all again as Jess finished up at the next place.
At the current moment, she was grabbing some things from the dairy aisle. “Alright darling… what do we need… we still need to grab some milk which in case you’re wondering, we don’t bloody refrigerate here like they do in the states kid. I don’t know, I thought Americans were so bloody weird when I first saw that.” Jess was talking to the little girl coddled against her chest. “We need cheese, lots of cheese. In case you haven’t figured this out, I adore cheese. I hope when you grow up you do too… and we need a few egg cartons… and…”
“Can I just say, you two are adorable. How old is your daughter?”
Jess looked up at an older woman who seemed to be smiling at the two - possibly watching Jess talk to the child as she went through the grocery aisles.
“Oh I don’t actually know… possibly a few weeks? Maybe a month or two? Currently unknown if I’m being honest. Man do I wish babies could talk sometimes, isn’t that right darling, don’t you wish you could just tell me you were hungry instead of screaming at the top of your lungs? I’m sure your dad would appreciate that too.”
“Oh sorry… are you the nanny then? What’s her name.” There was a bright look on the woman’s face as she neared Jess, smiling at the child who was soundly asleep.
“Oh god no… and honestly I don’t know, I’ve just been calling her darling and nugget but I don’t think she really minds… maybe I should call her something else…” Jess replied out of reflex… until of course, the face the woman made indicated to Jess that perhaps she didn’t explain that right. “oh I don’t mean it like that… I just mean… I actually only met her today… technically like less than 24 hours ago I think… oh that doesn’t sound good does it? I’m not… I didn’t steal her I promise… er… well you see my ex came to my door last night and I think it’s his daughter… at least I’m assuming it’s his because… well no… that didn’t come out right either… what I mean to say is…”
Perhaps it was the lack of sleep? Either way, Jessica Pierce ended up rambling in front of this lady who likely thought she was a child kidnapper for about… 8 minutes until thankfully the kid started crying and Jess apologized before making her escape…
Well… maybe it was time to go home then?
After putting everything away, feeding the currently unnamed… well name unknown child, and putting her to bed again, Jessica begin her research again and it wasn’t until she heard a voice that her eyes shifted from her computer screen. Looking up, Jess found her heart pulling in her chest when she saw Kai again after seeing him the day before. Yes… he was sleeping only a few steps away but distracting herself actually did help her forget for… a bit that he was there. And now, all of that was rushing back. He looked better… though, of course, that was in retrospect.
Now that Kai was standing before her, Jess could see him clearly. His eye bags had lessened, but he still looked exhausted - probably needing another dose of the antidepressants/sleep aid in a few hours. His hair was long and Jess honestly had never seen it like that before. However, behind his rugged appearance, Jess could still see him - her Kai behind the mask of the man who stood before her today.
Or maybe, the Kai she knew was the mask.
“How’d you sleep?”
What else was she supposed to say? Jess found herself putting down her laptop… slowly moving the papers on her coffee table before making room for the man on her couch… though she could see his wandering eyes looking for something. For a second, his eyes settled on the various things now scattered on her apartment. There were bags scattered on the side in a neat pile, a “sensory play mat” assembled on the floor, alongside more diapers and formula. “She’s sleeping… you can check if you’d like. I didn’t want the light to bother her so she’s in her bed in my room.”