King of Hearts

26.

"Val," Dánica exclaims accusingly, "Have you lost your mind? No one dares to talk to the prince like that." Dánica widens her eyes shocked by Val's attitude toward the prince. Val noticed how she and all the other customers bowed their heads, whereas Val boldly faced him. Sometimes she forgets that he's a royal. Val just shrugs. "He was getting on my nerves," she excuses. 

"He's very demanding and wants to be respected and worshipped. I'm surprised he hasn't locked you up", Dánica adds. It's strange indeed, that all he does is make fun of her but nothing more. He has threatened her before, and he has locked her up once, but he also freed her immediately. If the King of Hearts was the real "Queen of Hearts" from Alice in Wonderland, she would've already been decapitated from day one, for all the rude things Val has said.

A loud gong reminds the girls about the time. It's already 4 o'clock, they need to hurry.

"I haven't thanked you for the dress. I still can't believe you gave away all your money," Dánica mutters breathlessly. They are already on the way home and they are quickening the pace. Val would like to tell her that she won't need it anymore since she plans to leave as soon as possible but doesn't have the heart to. Also, it feels too much like a lie.

"I saw how happy and perfect you looked in it. And don't worry, money comes and goes, I'll earn it by working," Val says loudly. Dánica can't keep up so she's falling behind. Val slows down, letting her friend have a break. 

"You haven't told me what you need that money for," Val curiously affirms. Could it be for more coloring utensils? How much is she willing to spend? Dánica's gaze is fixed on the ground, avoiding eye contact. "I have sent a few applications to various regions and kingdoms. You know, to find a job. I need to start my journey somewhere. I've saved up money the last few years for the trip and everything that comes with it." Her voice is low but steady. It's what she's always wanted, to travel the world. Her dream is coming true. But why doesn't she sound happy?

"That's great! You're putting so much effort into it and it will soon pay off. Why are you upset?" Val asks. Dánica sighs deeply before answering. "I feel bad for leaving Garan. He's my family, I grew up knowing he's always on my side, taking care of me. I'm leaving him behind because I want to follow my dreams. Isn't it selfish?" her eyes become teary and Val's too because of how pure her friend is. And of how similar they are.

"No, Dánica, it's not at all selfish! You are a person who has a life, and personal interests. You have your own dreams, and you should obviously not give up on them because of someone else. You are not leaving him behind, you are just growing up and starting your own life. This is called independence. And I know it's what Garan wishes for you. To live your life. He wants you to be happy, of course. You shouldn't have any doubts. Besides, if you miss him, you can always come back. But please, don't ever make decisions based on other people's wishes. Especially if you're not even sure if it's what they wish indeed."

Dánica's sky-blue eyes meet the earth-brown ones of Val. Val sees how much Dánica is struggling but she's got the point. She can tell that her friend agrees with what she's said. She's just having a hard time putting her doubts and worries aside. But she can make it. Dánica's a person filled with love and that's the strongest weapon. She's ready for the world.

Dánica wipes a tear and smiles intently at Val. After that, she gives her a big hug. "Thank you," she whispers in Val's ear. "I'm glad to have met you, you're the sister I never had," she adds emotionally. Val needs to turn away in order not to turn into a human waterfall. That's the sweetest thing she was ever told. Knowing they'll be apart is too painful. Afraid of her strong emotions, Val just pats on her shoulder and says, "We need to go."

Val's mind is occupied with Dánica's words. You're the sister I never had. This is exactly what Val has felt like, but she never wanted to admit it. She never wanted to fall in love with these people, it's only going to hurt more once she'll leave. Because that's what she wants. Probably.