Yelena looked closer at me as though she was observing my every detail. I still, to this day, have no the slightest clue of what she was starring at. Perhaps it was my very soul screaming through to her. All I can recall from that moment was the expression on her face. Her eyes became big, focused on me, with her cheeks puffed. I believed she was displeased with what she saw before her. A mere boy whose arms held not the strength to throw a dart, a mere boy with the stillness of a trapped fly, a mere boy who was older than her but stood at her same height. The time I noticed her expression I then realized that she didn’t like me. But, all was mutual because I hated her as well. Hate is a bit of a strong word. I think a much better choice would be to dislike. Yes, I disliked her. She was in my way of having fun. She appeared rude and uncanny. I did not want to be her friend, I did not want to get to know her, and I most definitely did not want to wed her.
Oh, where are my manners? Continuing on with the conversation, she replied, to not anyone’s surprise, with the strongest disgust, pointing towards me.
“That’s who I’m going to have to marry?!”
I took a step back, allowing her father to speak next.
“Of course, my blossom! One day he’ll make a fine husband for you. Not only will you two be happy together but you will also carry out the kingdoms name together following the tradition of your ancestors. Now, doesn’t that make you proud, Yelena?”
Yelena tilted her head back to look up towards her giant father.
“No! That does not make me proud!” She exclaimed while stomping her feet down.
Her exclamation caused silence in the court. Even I lifted my head to see her. The King of Secrete widened his eyes in disbelief. He must have been embarrassed by his daughter’s behavior. I, for one, would have never humiliated Papa like that. It just wasn’t right. Young ladies and young men are supposed to be respectful towards elders. You do not talk back and you most definitely do not shout in public. When you are prince or princess people look up to you as a role model. You are representing your land and all the people in it, even I knew that. However, the case, now not only did I not like this princess Yelena but I also became afraid of her.
Her father bent over towards her level with his robe falling over his left should. He whispered something to her that I could not make out. I automatically realized the change of emotion in her eyes change from anger to fear. I looked at her concernedly but at the same time I didn’t feel sorry for her. She was one of those young women who scream and have no manners. I did not wish to be seen with her in the future. People would think I married a mad woman!
Yelena just simply nodded her head in understanding and glanced towards me. The king of Secrete was a mysterious man.
