¹ Claws of Legacy: Legacy's Descent ✓

Chapter 13: Family Day

To be honest, Y/n never imagined Auradon could become any stranger. It was always princes and princesses everywhere, and well, that was expected. But the concept of a Family Day didn't sit well with her, not at all.

Should she return to her father in the mansion far away from here and rejoin their dark ways? Absolutely not. There was no true family here for her to celebrate with. Her family was already falling apart, with everyone finding their love interests and dedicating their time to them.

Y/n felt alone in a sea of unknown creatures, and for once, she couldn't shake off the feeling of fear that gripped her.

"Let's go," Mal said, pulling Y/n out of her thoughts. Y/n looked up, her gaze meeting Mal's, and she nodded in agreement. She walked alongside her friends to the garden, where royal families mingled, danced, or enjoyed each other's company.

Another tight knot formed in Y/n's stomach, but she pushed it down, summoning a sweet smile as she gracefully moved past her acquaintances, her head held high and her shoulders squared.

Deep down, she was still searching for her place in this unfamiliar world, but for now, she would carry herself confidently and face the challenges ahead, even if she felt like an outsider in this realm of fairy tales.

The VKs mingled with the crowd, and Y/n stayed close to Evie, Carlos, and Jay. They paused near the chocolate fountain, the rich aroma of delicious treats filling the air. While hunger gnawed at Y/n, she couldn't bring herself to eat. Her stomach churned, and the thought of food didn't sit well with her.

Evie glanced at her, concern etched on her face, before directing her attention to Dude. The unruly dog affectionately nuzzled Y/n's jaw, seeking comfort in her arms. Y/n smiled warmly and gently kissed his head before turning her gaze toward Mal, who was conversing with Ben's parents. The future king had his arm draped around Mal, symbolizing their blossoming relationship.

Y/n couldn't help but feel a pang of longing for that connection. She admired the love and support they found in each other, yet she couldn't deny the lingering sense of isolation she felt amidst the festivities.

"Hey," Evie said, her voice filled with concern, bringing Y/n's attention back to her. The blue-haired princess's eyes held a genuine worry, and Y/n tightened her hold on Dude, sensing that Evie wouldn't let this go easily. They moved away from the boys, who were indulging in the delectable treats within reach. Once they had some distance, Evie turned to face Y/n, her expression still concerned.

"Now, please tell me what's been bothering you. Since, well, I think it was around when Ben and Mal started dating, you haven't been yourself. And now, with me and Doug, are you sure you're fine?" Evie's words carried a weight that tugged at Y/n's heart. Y/n took a deep breath and settled Dude on her lap, meeting Evie's gaze steadily, even as tears threatened to well up.

"To be honest," Y/n began, her voice trembling slightly, "no, I'm not fine. I do love you guys, and I'm genuinely happy that all of you have found your happiness. But here I am, an Indoraptor, for Pete's sake. I am a pack animal, and it feels like while you all have found your loves, I'm still here, alone. And, well, it doesn't sit right with me." Y/n poured out her feelings to Evie, knowing that her friend wouldn't judge her in any way.

As Y/n finished expressing her concerns, Evie's expression softened, and she sighed. Without hesitation, she wrapped her arms around Y/n, who reciprocated the embrace, mindful of the furry bundle in her lap. When they pulled back, Evie took hold of Y/n's hand.

"You know that we will always come to you, no matter what. You are the heart that brings us all together. And I'm sure Jay and Carlos haven't found their significant others yet because they both have feelings for you. It's clear as day," Evie reassured her. Y/n blinked, glancing over at where the two boys were still indulging in the feast. She snorted softly as she noticed Carlos fumbling with his food.