I am The Daughter Of The Dragon King

Chapter 11: A whole new person

I greet and converse in the quietest most polite manner I can manage. I had resolved to be better than Cecilia, to show that I am more a princess than she ever could be. My father returns to the party looking even more exhausted than he usually does. Determined to show my worth I don't go to him. This seems counterintuitive but makes a whole lot of sense.

I might not be perfect but I'm pretty smart. I can understand when to be worried and when not to be worried. Coming off as cold and uncaring is a possibility but I am going for the respectful side of things. I respect his power therefore I don't feel the need to worry about him when there isn't anything wrong. I try to make my expression as calm as possible.

Cecilia rushes over, "Father! Are you alright?" He nods and waves her off but thanks her for her concern before looking at me. The crowd looks at me too. "Do you not care for my father's health?" whines Cecilia. I laugh, "I care for my father's health a great deal. I do not however find it necessary to question his strength and capability in the same way as you. I do not rush over at the slightest cough or groan. I do not waste my time on problems that do not exist."

I curtsy, turn, and walk from the hall with as much grace as I can muster. Talia jogs to catch up to me and walk beside me. Our steps are synchronized perfectly, the sound of our shoes tapping against the floors echo through the halls. I need sleep. I need to be alone. I need comfort and kindness and attention. Talia provides me with all of those things at once.

With my maids fingers running up and down my back and her quiet humming I fell asleep faster than I was expecting. My dreams are pure turmoil. My father is leaving me to care for Cecilia. Dimitri turned on me. Talia becoming Cecilia's maid.

Betrayal and hatred coming from a place which once sprouted love and contentment. I wake to the odd noise of my furniture being moved and my clothing being packed.