HEARTBURN, young royals [R.W]

x. 2:30 IN THE MORNING

chapter ten
"2:30 in the morning"

♛

WARNING/S ~ none

  Students were gathered in the hallway or took a seat in the hall. Astrid walked behind her brother. August and Felice greeted the heirs as they made their way to the end of the line. August rested his forehead against Wilhelm in comfort, letting him know that he was there for him. Felice wrapped her arms around Astrid. When Astrid pulled away, Felice greeted Whilem, pulling him into a warm embrace. August shuffled into Felice's spot and gave Astrid a gentle hug. "I'm so sorry, Astrid. You can count on me for anything,"

Astrid and Whilem merged on into the hall with more students, as the brunette followed behind her brother. Someone grabbed her forearm, pulling her back towards them. Maria, pulled the princess into a tight hug, rubbing her back in circular motions. Astrid thanked the girl and squeezed her hand gently.

Once the pair was seated, the choir walked out. The song begun by Simon singing, "So you say, all you want to be is remembered."

Astrid closed her eyes and tried to drown out the song. The last thing she needed was a depressing song just to remind her that Erik was gone.

"Let me sing you into eternity." The rest of the choir joined in. The princess ran her hands over her skirt, she desperately wanted to run. The song ended and Wilhelm stood up for his speech, Simon's voice still present in his ears.

The prince adjusted his tie, then unfolded the piece of paper in his hands. He ran an anxious hand through his hair as he begun, "First of all, I would like to thank the choir for the beautiful song. I also want to thank you for extending your condolences at this difficult time." Wilhelm folded the piece of paper back up, and casted a look across the room. "It feels wrong that I'm the one still here..." Astrid's ears perked up and she gazed up at her brother with sympathy. "-instead of him. I know that Erik would have said...There's no point in having a back-up if you never use it." A smile tugged on Astrid's lips. "My brother was kind and considerate. He was my role model."