Sofia the First: The Rise of Rulers

Chapter Six: Hugo

Chapter Six

Hugo

I can feel the tension in the room after King Roland puts Astrid in her place. I've never seen her behave this way. I've never seen anyone behave this way. I can tell she is embarrassed now as she collects herself and sits down.

I feel bad for my poor brother. Although he can be a dickhead from time to time, he is a good person at heart and he's in love with that girl. He denies it, of course, but anyone with eyes can tell. I thought they would get married until Christian began pursuing her. Axel masked his hurt with hate, but deep down I know he still loves her.

King Roland is still standing, his face set in frustration. The rest of the royal parents remain silent, especially Astrid's parents; as if they were the ones who had an outburst in front of everyone.

"We will be holding another meeting in just under a week to discuss more of our plans to take a hold on the current issue. The weddings will begin in 3 days with Hildegard and Zander. Sofia and Hugo will follow them the day after..."

At that, my head snaps to Sofia sitting next to me. She was already looking at me, her eyes wide. She looks terrified. I try to replicate her look so I don't appear too eager at the thought of me and Sofia married. Because I'm secretly overjoyed at the idea. Though, when I imagined me and Sofia finally becoming husband and wife I thought it would be under more willing and happy circumstances. I want Sofia to want to marry me. She clearly looks more frightened than excited.

I've tried flirting with Sofia throughout the years, but she always ignores it. She very rarely flirts back and when she does I savor it. All in all, I've hinted at my feelings and she has all but shown she does not feel the same.

It's ok though. I'll be her friend. I'd much prefer to be her friend than to be a stranger who never gets to experience the feeling of making her laugh. Or watching as her face morphs into pure joy when she smiles. I like to think she only smiles that way for me.

I'm aware I sound like a love-sick puppy, but I can't help it when it comes to Sofia.

"Although we are taking extreme measures for the war we do not want you to be frightened. We wish that you remain calm." Roland continues.

I forgot about the war for a minute there. I had known there was a tension growing between Enchancia and Blugona, but I had not realized it had gotten to this point.

My history tutors taught me much about wars, but I never imagined I'd live through one. I'm not afraid. Enchancia is one of the strongest kingdoms in the Ever Realm, and with the other kingdoms present tonight we should be unstoppable.

"You are dismissed," Roland says.

No one makes a move to stand.

"Talk amongst yourselves, and resolve whatever problems you have because what happened in here tonight was completely unacceptable, and should not happen again."

Astrid reddens and ducks her head. I feel bad for her, I know her. She's a good princess and always has been very respectable and nice; that's why everyone was so surprised at her outburst tonight.

Only after Queen Miranda stands and begins a conversation, too low for the rest of us to hear with the king, do the rest of us stand.

Sofia is in front of me in an instant.

"Are you upset?" She asks me, not meeting my eyes.

"No. Are you?"

"No, I'm glad I'm stuck with you over anyone else. Believe it or not you're not as bad as some may think."

I laugh. I love Sofia for being able to lighten such a serious situation. Her words ease some of my worries as well.

"You're not half bad yourself," I tell her with a wink.

She smiles. That smile that I like to think is just for me.

I have the overwhelming urge to tuck the piece of hair that has fallen out of place behind her ear.

"Are you worried about Axel? You know after all at that?" Sofia asks looking behind me to where Axel and Astrid are talking. Surprisingly neither of them is screaming.

"Axel's a big boy, he can take care of himself," I tell her. Although a little part of me is worried Astrid will break my brother's heart, again.

"I can't believe I only have 4 days to pick out a wedding dress!" Sofia says sounding more panicked than when she found out we were at war.

I smile at her. I can't help it.