Chapter Twenty-Nine: Shades of Insecurity

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"So, Isa, spill the tea. Are you really giving me your 'permission' to date Pander?" Evie winked with a twinkle in her eye, leaning in towards her eldest sister.

Leaning back on the three seat garden swing bench and allowing the sun to rest on her face, Isa smiled at Evie mischievously and playfully tapped her nose, "Well, darling, you have my blessing."

"Oh, Isa, you sound like my fairy godmother or something. But seriously, I don't need your permission. I'm eighteen, not eight." Evie laughed.

"Yeah, Isa, let the girl breathe. She's practically a grown woman now." Odie chimed in.

Isa pouted teasingly, "Well, forgive me for being a concerned big sister, you two! Maybe I'm just worried you'll forget about your dear sister Isa once you're entangled with Pander."

"Isa, you're acting like I'm marrying the guy. Relax, will you? Besides, aren't you the one who shared a kiss with Prince Edris yesterday?"

Isa hid her face in her loose curls in embarrassment, "That was...different."

"Different, my foot. Edris has unleashed your playful side, and I'm revelling in it."

"Princess Isadora of KodaCait! Who knew you had it in you? Maybe you'll dance on the tables next!" Odie gasped dramatically, nudging Isa in the ribs.

"Don't push it." Isa rolled her eyes with a lopsided grin.

Kicking her feet slowly, Evie leaned forward to focus her attention on Odie, "Speaking of dances, any boys catching your eye, Odie?"

"Boys? Please. I'm not in a rush." Odie scoffed, folding her arms.

"Come on, Odie, we can't all be as slow as a snail in the romance department. You need to find someone before you become a dim-light and Isa and I start collecting dust."

"I'll find someone when I'm good and ready, thank you very much. Being a dim-light is the least of my concerns."

"Odie's right. There's no need to rush into things." Isa nodded, admiring her perfectly manicured nails.

"Well, I'm sure you can have any boy you want, Odie. You're the prettiest girl I know. Just don't settle for my Pander!" Evie jibed, sticking her tongue out.

Odie gave Evie a half smile, "Trust me, I won't. I haven't found someone who piques my interest yet."

"Take your time, Odie. But remember, the clock is ticking for us three. We're practically ancient in the world of romance, and you're going to be twenty-five in...well...five years time!."

"Oh, spare us the melodrama, Evie. Love will find her when it's ready." Isa laughed, taking Evie's hand and simultaneously resting her head on Odie's shoulder.

Meanwhile, Hawthorne and Mari had their own plans to wander around the village centre. It was more for Hawthorne's personal gain than for Mari's curiosity.

"Mari, let's hit the village centre. I heard there's something interesting going on today." Hawthorne grinned.

"Sure, honey. Lead the way." Mari smiled sweetly, taking Hawthorne by the hand.

The bustling village centre was a hive of activity, teeming with people engaged in various tasks and interactions. The narrow cobblestone streets were lined with quaint shops and lively market stalls, each vying for attention with colourful displays of fruits, vegetables, and handmade crafts. The air was filled with the melodic symphony of vendors haggling, children laughing, and the occasional clang of metal as blacksmiths worked diligently in their shops.

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