The De Niles

Dad's Words

Astrid sat in front of her mirror at her desk. A picture frame sat up top the desk.

"I don't get it." She muttered.

Suddenly four knocks were heard at her door.

"Come in." She called out.

The door creaked open to reveal the King himself, Ramses. Also known as her father.

"Hi." She greeted.

Ramses was dressed in his at home attire. Robes and a mask that covered his face. He had with him a cane of gold.

"Hello my daughter. How was your first week of school?" His gruff voice spoke. To most the sound of Ramses' voice is rather intimidating and unfriendly, which is one of the reasons why he struggles to find a bride.

Astrid put her elbow on her desk and her chin in the palm of the hand. She shrugged lightly with a bored expression. "It was okay I guess."

"Did you make any new friends?"

"Uh...not really."

Now you might be thinking, what about Braix? Well after that whole lost and found situation, they didn't talk much after that.

Throughout the week, they saw each other regularly, since they were in the same grade and had multiple classes together. But they only managed to say hi to each other every morning in first class.

"I'm know you'll make some in time." Her father said.

Astrid only hummed in acknowledgement.

Ramses stood up. He strode over to his youngest daughter. The click clack of his shoes and cane echoed throughout the room.

He stood behind his daughter and placed a gentle but firm hand on her shoulder. This caught Astrid's attention.

He leaned down, and used his singular arm to bring her into a side hug.

"You don't need lots of friends Astrid. Only a few. No need to rush. They'll come in time."

His words were hushed. You could practically hear his smile through his words. And it's because of this, Astrid smiled. With a gentle kiss to her temple, Ramses headed towards the door.

Before he could close it behind himself however, he stopped.
"Dinner will be served in about fifteen minutes. Don't dottle. Your sisters and I like eating with you."

"Alright."

Then he left.