Into The Woods - Harry Styles

15.

I find myself walking through camp, trying to maneuver my way through the busy paths that litter with Death Valley people. The last few days I have avoided Harry and stayed to myself after hearing the news of Daniel leaving to go find my family. I still cannot fathom why he wouldn't tell me of his plan. Yes, I would probably try to stop him or even maybe try to convince him to let me join his journey, but he didn't even say goodbye, what if I never see him again? How will I live my life knowing his death is on my hands? I am not strong enough for this.

Everyday since his departure, I have found myself praying for his safety. My mother always taught me to have faith. I cannot lose my Daniel, I am not ready to be queen, at least not by myself. I need my king to rule beside me and guide our people towards a better world.

"Rosalie, what might you be doing out here all by yourself?" I hear the familiar voice of Mathias, who stands tall with his shoulders pulled back. He smiles at me and I answer him with,

"I am not entirely alone since you have joined me, plus there are plenty of other village people roaming these paths." I glance around me to see many other bodies running about their day with places to be.

"Well, I guess you're right, but still you need a man to watch over you, especially since you're a royal soon to take her parents place." I merely laugh, wondering if I will ever rule my parents lands. Somedays I wonder if I will ever make it back to my beloved Castle Hill, my heart still yearns for my mother and father along with James. Everyday I think of them and hope to God they're safe wherever they may be.

"That's a kind gesture, but I need to soon learn to care for myself." I don't want people to see me as this weak-minded girl who can't defend herself in dangerous situations, but when I think about it, I probably couldn't protect myself. I have always had guards to do that for me, but here I am alone and more vulnerable than ever.

"You're not in danger here as long as you stay within the gates. If you ever need someone to watch your back then I will be more then happy to be of service." He graciously offers, taking my hand and kissing the top. I slowly pull my hand away and thank him for the offer, hoping I won't have to take him up on it since I hope to defend myself. Mathias seems like a great guy, someone I could put my trust in.

"I have no intention of leaving unless I feel threatened." I admit truthfully, hoping he doesn't think I am crazy to leave this place and venture out into the unknown without help of any kind. He tilts his head and takes a deep breath in saying,

"Well I hope you never feel threatened, for I will truly miss your company." I smile at his kind words, continuing to walk along the path to the market structure. "Well I best be going, hopefully I will see you soon." After bowing and sending me a quick wink he turns away and walks off, disappearing within moments.

After a few more minutes of walking, I am inside of the market. I'm not really for sure what I am looking for, I guess I am just looking for fun, something to keep my mind off Daniel. In the midst of browsing through the tables of what-nots and random objects, I come across the ring I had found only days ago. Its sparkling ocean blue crystal glistens when the light of the sun hits it from a small gap in the roof. I place the ring on my finger, surprised when it actually fits very well.

"Rose, I have been looking everywhere for you." I hear what must be the devil himself speaking behind me. I intake a sharp breath and turn towards his ever-so annoying voice. I send him a fake grin, rolling my eyes in the process. I wonder what he could want now? I was enjoying myself without being in his presence.

"It seems you're always looking for me, maybe you should learn to keep up with my whereabouts since you're supposed to be watching over me." If this man is in charge of keeping me safe, then he is doing a poor job considering he doesn't know where I am half of the time; it's not like his village is very big, in fact it's quite small actually. His jaw tenses slightly and I know I have managed to anger the ogre once again.