I'll Protect You (Original Version)

Betrothals sound more magical in a fairy tale.

Honestly, at that moment, I wished I had mirrors all around me. So then, I could see exactly what my expressions were transforming into.

I know I started out with utter horror. My mouth had been hanging open while Vincent was smiling sheepishly, his sky blue eyes twinkling with a deep unspoken apology. My eyes were wide and probably dilated with pure terror. I must've been as pale as a ghost.

And then my horror transformed into complete rage. What was this boy doing here? The deal said I didn't have to be at his side until our engagement was announced. And how the hell did he find out I was in Paradise? The only one who can legally give out the information of my wherabouts was my grandmother.

And she knew plenty well not to put me near Vincent.

People took step backs, their faces tight as their eyes flickered from one to another, and towards mine. They looked...fearful. Girls huddled together, like staying in a pack would somehow protect them. The boys began to tense up their fists, preparing for a fight.

And then there was Vincent.

He was a tall, very very very gorgeous young man that was just a year older than me. His golden blond hair, fitting for an angel's locks, curling at the ends where they grew too long, were pushed back by his tough hands. Vincent had strong cheekbones and a strong jawline, both were tense as his blue eyes eyed me warily.

"Oh, Park, don't look at me like that," he started. "I thought the urges to murder me had long gone."

And, unexpectedly, I lunged at him, my demonic claws out (I'm kidding, I don't actually have demonic claws), a yearning for blood burning in my veins. I must've resembled an animal, for many others started screaming and pushed themselves against the walls, their eyes wide and frightened as my fingers latched onto Vincent's black jacket and pushed him into a wall.

"How did you find out I was here?" I snarled, enforcing my words with brute force as his back hit the wall once more. When he didn't answer, merely groaned in pain, I elbowed him hard in the chest, causing him to cry out even more.

"What the hell are you doing here?" my voice whispered ferociously, a hint of panic beginning to settle in. "We made a promise, Vincent! Why are you here?"

I was about ready to slap him to get some answers when a pair of strong arms wrapped around my waist, picking me up and setting me aside.

"Logan, let me go!" I cried. "I have to know why he's here! There's something going on! MY POSITION IS COMPROMISED!"

"What position?" he snorted. I fought even harder so that he would let go of my waist, but my goodness, this boy was incredibly strong! My legs were kicking rabidly, my arms flailing uncontrollably, and a steady stream of curse words were leaving my mouth, and yet, Logan refused to let me go.

"If you don't stop struggling, I will pick you up and carry you to my mother's office," he finally threatened, his voice low and rough in my ear.

"I dare you," I breathed softly.

My mind didn't think he would actually do it. Especially in public. Especially when he had a girlfriend. Especially considering the fact that one shouldn't really touch the princess of Cimeria without her full given consent.

But Cross swooped me up, swinging my whole body into my arms so that I was being carried bridal style down the golden hallways of Cross Academy. With the whole student body gawking with curious gazes as it happened.

Logan barked a few orders, which resulted in the crowds dissipitating rather quickly, along with Vincent jogging to catch up with his. The last shreds of my dignity slipped away as Vincent grinned boyishly down at me.