The Doll Prince

Chapter 2

A voice broke Amai off from her dreaming. Turning around, she saw a young man, maybe a few years older than her, standing in front of the nook. He would've been handsome if he wasn't wearing a look that spelled out "smug" and "prideful" on his lightly freckled face.

Softly, Amai addressed him. "Yes?"

The man bowed before speaking. "I was just over there with your aunt and saw you over here by yourself. When I asked about you, she said you were her niece, and offered for me to talk to you." His smug grin grew a little, eyes slowly tracing over her, making her shiver.

Of course, Aunt Kaya would send over the first stuck-up that was interested in her. For a quick second, the girl lowered her eyes to where her aunt was standing a distance away. There she was, watching the two, waiting for something to happen.

"Aunt Kaya, you're turning this into my worst birthday ever!" Amai yelled in her mind. She spoke to the man. "I appreciate her wanting me to talk with someone. However, I'm content just staying here alone right now, thank you."

She said this as kindly as she could. But as she started to turn back to the window, the man placed a hand on her shoulder, making her freeze.

"You know, miss. You are very beautiful. I'm surprised you're alone when your cousins are surrounded by men."

Her breathing was picking up, uncomfortable with the position she was in. She thought hard of any way to shake this man off without causing a scene.

"I'm sorry, but I..."

"I believe the young lady is not comfortable with you touching her, sir."

A gentle voice made the man draw his hand back. Amai looked at the window, relief and happiness filling her heart when she saw a familiar face in the glass.

"Keiichiro!"

She faced him, giving a warm smile. The newcomer nodded to her, then silently sent the man away. Then he gestured for a hug, one she gladly gave.

Keiichiro Akasaka was a toymaker whose shop resided two blocks away from Aunt Kaya's house. He was 24 with long brown hair tied in a low ponytail, kind brown eyes, and was always a gentleman to everyone.

Ever since Amai moved in, he was her only real friend. The only person who understood her dreams and wishes. Keiichiro was also the one that made her past three birthdays happier for her. He'd give her a gift he himself created, like the music box in the form of a little castle from her 16th year. She had visited him earlier that day in the morning, and he promised her that tonight would be very special.

"Thank you so much for saving me there, Keiichiro." He grinned. "Of course, Amai. I guess Kaya is about ready to try sending you away with some suitor, isn't she?" Amai looked at the ground sadly. "I guess."

"Well," Keiichiro began to lead her out of the room and into the parlor, away from the party. He sat her down on a chair. "I think this would be a good time to give you your birthday present."

Amai perked up. "What is it this time, Keiichiro?!" She got excited, trying not to bounce in her seat like a child. Keiichiro laughed.

"Wait." Pulling out a wrapped box from his bag, he placed it on her lap. Before she opened it, he stopped her. "This is a very special present, Amai. More than any I've given you before. I've had it for a while, and now is the time for it to be given to the right person. Like you."

Amai took in his words before she unwrapped the box. Her heart thumped louder, anxious to see this special something. Opening the lid, she gasped.

"Oh my..."