Kings Gambit

Chapter 30 - Reported

A shiver coursed through my spine as I sat in the dining room. Like a ghost had just entered my body or someone stepped on my future grave. Though, that stuff only happens in fiction, right? I shouldn't overthink it.

"You doing okay, Angel? You looked a little shocked there." Claire held her head up with a soft smile.

"Huh? Oh, sorry. I just had a real big chill. It might be the air conditioning." I laughed it off.

"It is rather cold here. Conveniently, most of our costumes have long sleeves." Claire chuckled with me.

"I guess so, though. I wish they would give us a new wardrobe or something. I'm getting sick of these stripes. They are making my eyes hurt." I looked down at the black and white striped shirt I'd worn since I came here.

"Are you used to having many different clothes to choose from?" Claire asked. I tilted my head.

"You aren't?" I replied.

"Oh, no, not necessarily. I mean, I had clothes, of course, just nothing fancy." She nervously laughed. She seemed embarrassed about it...

"Hmmm, well, that red dress suits you, but I think you could rock green pretty well too. Perhaps we could hang out and go shopping when this is all over." I smiled. She looked at me with misty eyes without saying anything.

"Did I say something wrong?" I shifted my eyes away from hers.

"No, No, I would love to do that with you." She wiped her eyes and smiled back. Just what background did she come from?

"Great! We could also get you some makeup as well. I never see you wear it."

"Ahaha... I actually have no clue how to use makeup. I have it in my room, but it all looks too confusing to me." She bit her lip with red cheeks.

"How come? Didn't you use it as a kid? Or have your mom teach you or something?" I questioned.

"Er, I think now would be a good time to tell you that I am an orphan. I lived most of my life at the foster home...." She looked down at the table, keeping her soft smile.

"Oh shit, I'm sorry, I didn't mean to assume or anything." I held my arm. That explains everything... God, I'm stupid.

"Don't worry about it! It's common to assume. My situation is just a bit different. That's all." She continued to smile.

"You don't have to force yourself to smile. I can tell that you're a bit upset about it." I stared directly into her eyes.

"Oh, I'm not forcing it or anything like that, but yeah, it's a little embarrassing." She gave a goofy grin as she put her finger on her cheek.

"It's not like you had a choice in the matter, so there's no reason to be embarrassed. I think you're great the way you are," I crossed my arms.

"Aww, you're too nice. Seriously, don't worry about me." She put up her hands in defense.

"If you insist." I shrugged.
"Though, I'm going to have to do something about your makeup. How about I help you out later today?" I leaned in closer to the table. Her cheeks burned red.

"Ah! You don't have to do that! I'll probably look like a mess!" She backed up

"No you won't! You'll look amazing!" I let out a cheeky grin.

"I don't want to waste your time or anything...." She fidgeted with her dress.

"Why not? Who knows, you might even impress Jasper." I squinted my eyes.