The Princess & the Pauper (Les Mis)

Written in Your Heart

Cosette's discovery in the mines turned out to be the answer to the kingdom's financial problems. Businesses reopened, housing was rented out, and education was more widely accessible. Cosette spent more time out of the castle, speaking to her people and hearing their concerns. She was well on her way to being an amazing queen.

Eponine had rented a small house for her, Gavroche and Azelma using the money she earned from singing. She started out performing for small crowds in cafes and parks, but a few months later she was singing on stage to hundreds of people. She had the money to pay for her siblings to attend school, and live comfortably without the worry of their parents. The Thenardiers were arrested for their ties to various crimes, ensuring that they were not allowed near their children.

Eponine returned home late after a performance one evening to find her siblings asleep on the couch. Gavroche had his head on Azelma's shoulder, his mouth wide open as he snored. Azelma looked relaxed, far more peaceful than she had ever been while living with their parents. Eponine's heart swelled as she tucked a blanket around them. She sighed, realising that there was something missing. Or maybe someone.

——

The following day, Eponine returned to the castle to find Enjolras. He was overjoyed to see her, especially when he noticed that she still wore the ring. He pulled her into a loving embrace, and it was then that they both finally felt complete.

——

The kingdom was abuzz with excitement as people rushed around to prepare for the double wedding. Cosette and Eponine stood in their dresses, waiting anxiously to see their fiancées. The princess's dress was full and classic, with puffed sleeves and pearls decorating the satin fabric. The long veil and gold crown sat on her curled updo.

Eponine wore a simple white lace dress with a red sash that matched her flowers. Her hair was curled and adorned with a lace veil.

"I'm so excited, Ponine," Cosette gushed, bouncing despite the fact that she was in heels.

"Me too. Thanks for letting us crash your wedding," she laughed. Cosette smiled and took her friend's hands in her gloved ones.

"Of course. What better way to celebrate the best day of my life than by sharing it with my best friend?"

Eponine pulled her into a hug, sniffing quietly.

"Ponine, are you crying?" The princess smiled.

"Shut up. Now, let's go. Our grooms are waiting for us," she laughed.

——

Enjolras and Marius stood at the end of the aisle, waiting for the girls. Grantaire and Courfeyrac stood beside them, glad to have rekindled their friendship with Marius.

"Are you nervous?" Marius whispered.
"No, not anymore," Enjolras replied.
"Why's that?"
"I've never been more sure about anything in my life than I am about Eponine."

"I feel the same way about Cosette. I just never believed that this would happen. Sorry I stole your bride," he laughed.

Enjolras chuckled.
"That's alright. Thanks for helping me find the right one."

The two men shared a smile, realising that the ceremony was about to begin. Gavroche came out first, holding the rings. He shifted uncomfortably, grimacing at the suit he had to wear. Azelma followed, wearing a red dress and carrying a pink bouquet to represent both of the brides.

Finally, it was time for the brides. As soon as they stepped into view, they locked eyes with their partners and everything else around them seemed to disappear.

——

After the wedding, the two couples got ready to board the carriage together, waving at the crowds. Eponine hugged her siblings, telling them to take care of each other and enjoy the castle while she was gone. Cosette hugged her crying mother, reassuring her that they would be back in two weeks for her coronation. The girls then joined their husbands, waving as the horses pulled the carriage away.

Eponine looked at Cosette and smiled, the two grateful for their meeting in the village, which now felt like so long ago. It seemed that fate really had intended for the princess and the gamine to meet for a reason.

Though you may not know where your gifts may lead

And it may not show at the start

When you live your dreams

You'll find destiny

Is written in your heart