The King Who Won't Marry

HOME (cont. )

Isabelle

(That night on the ship while she was leaving)

"Isabelle?"

I turned around and saw my dad out too. He was looking at me with worried eyes. I composed myself, and tried to look normal in front of him, as if this day was planned, as if leaving was ordinary for me.

"You okay, my dear?"

I sighed, trying to sound content, "Yes, dad. I'm fine. I just needed some fresh air."

"Well, it's not like there's no air below the ship."

I chuckled, "Very funny, dad."

"No. I'm serious." -He went closer- "What's the matter, Isabelle?"

"Nothing, dad. I just really needed a breather."

He sighed, "You miss them?"

I stayed silent. After all the lies, I couldn't lie again. It's better to stay silent.

"Silence means yes, right?"

I groaned, "God, I forgot that saying."

Of course he would think I missed them if I didn't say anything! Stupid head.

Dad laughed, "I may not be your mother, but I can see through you too, you know."

I chuckled before sighing, "I'm sorry, dad. I promise I'll be better when we get there."

"I don't think so."

"Dad."

He patted my head, then he pulled me into a hug. I know I should feel safe, contented, warm, and satisfied. I mean, here's my dad, trying to comfort me. My mom's with me, safe and sound. Well, she's still recovering and all, but she's well, and that's what matters. I have my family with me, and we'll be going to a place where no one can hurt us or put us in danger. I have everything with me, my family, my home.

I'm a very lucky girl. I should be happy.

But...

To be honest, I'm not. I don't think I ever will be, not even after we land.

My tears rolled down my cheeks, "I'm..I'm sorry, dad. I just really miss them. I know I should be fine by now. I have you and mom. But I..."

"Because they became a part of your life now. I understand." -He caressed my head gently. Then he held me by my shoulders, making me face him- "But, dear, you do understand what they've put you through, right? What happened to us was no joking matter. We could've been killed. You could've been killed, and you know that your mother and I can't take another one."

"I know, dad. I just really...I miss them."

"I know. I'll miss Sorah too. After all, it's our home."

At this, I urged myself to be the one to say something to him, "No. YOU are my home, dad. You and mom. You guys are more important to me. That's why I'm doing this. And I can't risk losing you guys again."

"Isabelle."

Suddenly, a gust of cold wind blew, making me and my dad shiver. I looked beyond the ocean. Looks like we're getting farther from the port. I almost can't see it. And the fog didn't help.

"Dad, you should go back. It's getting cold. I'll be with you in a minute."

Then I went to near front of the ship to just...have a moment. The things I said to my father weren't a lie. It just wasn't the whole truth. Because the truth was, my friends are also important to me. And even though leaving them like this would hurt me, it's a sacrifice I had to make for my family. They need me more.