Echoes of Wonderland

History Island

Chloe's POV

I wake up the next morning with a mix of emotions swirling inside me. Last night's dinner was uncomfortable, but there's a sense of relief now. Everything feels more settled—Red and I are together, my parents are alive, and the threat of the Queen of Hearts has passed. Plus, something unexpectedly wonderful has come out of all of this: Red has found out about her father, and even though she's still processing it, I believe it's going to be incredibly positive for her. She deserves to have the love and support of two parents, just as I do.

As I make my way down to the kitchen for breakfast, my mind drifts to the date I have with Red. The anticipation of spending the evening with her fills me with excitement and butterflies. I can't wait to see her and enjoy the night she's planned. The thought of being with her makes me feel both thrilled and nervous—nervous because I want everything to be perfect, but thrilled because it's our first official date.

When I enter the kitchen, I'm greeted by my mom, who is already seated and enjoying her breakfast.

- Good morning, sweetie. - She says warmly, cupping my cheek and giving me a loving smile.

- Morning, Mom. - I reply, feeling a mix of happiness and anxiety.

- Did you sleep well, honey? - She asks, taking a seat and starting her breakfast.

- I did. - I respond simply, trying to keep my composure.

- That's good. - She pauses, looking thoughtful. - Your father and I were invited to a dinner at Fay's house, Fairy Godmother.

- Oh, really? That's cool. - I say, taking my seat at the table, my mind still buzzing with thoughts of my upcoming date. - Is Chad going with you?

- Yes, he is. You're welcome to join us if you'd like. - My mom says, clearly expecting me to agree.

- Well, umm... Actually. - I stumble over my words, my excitement about the date making it hard to focus. - Red asked me out on a date. She'll be picking me up around 5ish.

A wave of nerves and excitement washes over me as I imagine the evening ahead. I can't help but smile at the thought of being with Red, holding her hand, and sharing this special time together. The anticipation is almost too much to contain.

- Oh, sweetheart, that sounds lovely! - My mom says, her smile genuine. - I'm sure you'll have a wonderful time.

- I really hope so. - I say, trying to hide my excitement. - I've been looking forward to this all week.

My mom's approval and understanding make me feel even more eager for the evening. I finish my breakfast, my thoughts already drifting to what I'll wear and how I'll spend the evening with Red. The day feels like it's stretching on forever, but the thought of being with her makes every moment worth it.

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Red's POV

The next day, I'm a bundle of nerves and excitement. After our dinner with the family, I asked Chloe to go out with me today, and now I'm more determined than ever to make our first official date special. Even if I'm not exactly sure how to handle my newfound family situation, I'm still going to pull off the best date I can for Chloe.

I head to the garage where I've parked the car. It's sleek and modern, a far cry from the rugged vehicles I used to sneak around in. My dad also lent his boat to me for the day, and it's still a little strange to think of him as my dad. It's a new dynamic I'm getting used to, and asking him for a favor—like borrowing his boat—feels both awkward and important.

I drive over to Chloe's house, my thoughts a jumble of excitement and anxiety. As I pull up to her front door, I take a deep breath, trying to calm my racing heart. This is it. I'm picking up Chloe for our date. I remind myself that everything is going to be fine. Today is about making Chloe happy, and that's what matters most.