The Apple of My Eye: Once Upon An Anthology

Daring... by Tyler

Crunch!

Kyle rolled his eyes as he sat across from his roommate, who was casually munching on a Red Delicious apple in the bustling castle-teria. Kyle marveled at how Daring could carry on with his day, seemingly unfazed by the camera crew trailing him, capturing his every move.

"Uh, Daring?" Kyle began.

Daring wiped his hands on his shirt, "Yes, Ky?"

Kyle shrugged, his posture slackening as the camera swung in his direction. Leaning in, he cupped a hand over Daring's ear, hoping to keep their conversation private from the prying ears of the camera crew.

"Do you think we can talk?"

Daring nodded, "Of course, man."

Kyle nodded, directing the camera crew's attention with a glance before looking back at Daring.

"Alone," Kyle demanded.

"Alright, take five, everyone," Daring snapped his fingers, dismissing the crew and leaving the two Royals alone.

Kyle let out an annoyed sigh. He didn't know how to bring up what Apple had instructed him to do. With his arms crossed, he shot a glare at Daring, who looked back at him with confusion, his eyebrow raised in question.

"Apple told me to tell you that she will be busy today and she doesn't want me to leave you alone. She's afraid you might get yourself into trouble if you're not with anyone."

Daring shook his head.

"Wait! Are you saying that you're babysitting me?"

"Yes," Kyle sulked.

"I can perfectly take care of myself, thank you!"

Just as Daring was about to storm off, Kyle summoned the surrounding air, trapping him where he stood, unable to move.

"No, you can't. Besides, I would leave you with the other Royals, but they seem too busy with their own stuff today, so I was the lucky winner."

With a flick of his wrist, Kyle lifted Daring into the air, making him float behind.

"Where are we going?" Daring demanded, crossing his arms.

Kyle opened the bedroom door and closed it behind him before pulling out his Booking Glass from his jacket.

"I'm not going to chase you around like an idiot here in Ever After."

Lifting the Booking Glass, Kyle took aim, and a brilliant flash emitted from the mirror, unveiling a portal upon the door.

"So, you're going somewhere where you have to stay put."

"Grandma Charming's house?" Daring guessed with a grin.

Kyle rolled his eyes, "Nice try, fucker."

Kyle pushed Daring into the portal with a strong kick, then quickly jumped in after him.

***

Daring cast a quick glance and winced. The town square's chilly and gloomy appearance made him question whether he would be safe in this quiet little mountain town. In a surge of panic, Daring grabbed Kyle by the collar.

"Where have you taken me?" Daring moved closer to Kyle, who stepped back, struggling against the intoxicating dizziness caused by his cologne-a blend of sandalwood and vanilla that overpowered Kyle's sense of smell.

Kyle shoved Daring back, "My hometown."

Daring's eyes widened, taking another glance around the town before locking eyes with Kyle again.