Red Shoes & the 7 Dwarfs

Chapter 21: Official Chaperone

"Your majesty, a Princess Carmela is here to see you." One of the servants opened up King White's office door as he looked up.

"Oh? I don't believe I've met her before. Yes, let her in."

"This way Princess." The servant bowed as Princess Carmela nodded and walked in.

"Your majesty, I am Princess Carmela, I come from the eastern part of Fairytale Island. I wanted to humbly request a position here at the castle. I'm looking for work, you see, my kingdom isn't as prosperous as yours and I can no longer count on my parents to care for me. I'm willing to work hard to earn my keep sire."

"Oh how dreadful. Yes, yes, of course we can find something that will work. You know, I was actually looking for an official chaperone for my daughter Snow White and Prince Merlin. I'm not sure if he's too serious about marrying my daughter. He's a good man, I just think he needs more time to adjust to the idea of marriage. Snow also said she'd rather wait a while before getting married."

"Oh I see, yes, such a wise king you are sire. This will do nicely. Your daughter is pretty and has such a kind heart." Princess Carmela's voice picked up at the word "pretty" as she inwardly cursed Snow White's appearance and felt the need to lie through her teeth in order to formulate her plan.

"Right, it's settled. Snow White is having her lessons now if you'd like to go to her study upstairs, but she'll be going over to the dwarf's home to look at some of Merlin's books. Make yourself at home. I believe Merlin will be having dinner with us."

"Wonderful. I thank you your majesty." Princess Carmela curtsied as she turned gracefully and looked around the castle, snarling at the paintings of Snow White.

"You definitely take after your father. Pig." She turned her nose up as the male servants, butlers, and chefs nearly tumbled over one another to catch a glimpse of her outward beauty.

* * *

"Papa, I'm home! Merlin's staying for dinner." Snow White walked in arm-in-arm with Prince Merlin.
"Welcome back! Merlin, nice to see you again. I actually have some wonderful news for you both. I just hired a chaperone who is willing to be present during your outings. Princess Carmela, please come in."

Snow White's mouth dropped as Prince Merlin squeezed her hand, ready to step in when Princess Carmela appeared to be crying.

"I'm so honored to chaperone the up-in-coming royals of the White Kingdom. Your majesties, please forgive my rudeness earlier. I was frightened by that dragon and was experiencing dizzy spells. Thank you both for saving my life, I'm indebted to you. If there's anything I can do to repay you, don't hesitate to make your needs known." Princess Carmela curtsied low as Snow White and Prince Merlin looked shocked.

"Oh, well, I um." Prince Merlin did not know what to say as he nervously looked around the room, then at Snow White.

"We're both glad you came and are willing to be our chaperone. I'm sure the little spat we had was just a misunderstanding. And since you know as our chaperone, that Merlin and I are going to get married; we appreciate your support for our maturing relationship." Snow White smiled as she made a small curtsy.

"Yes, of course. I will be at your beck and call princess." Princess Carmela slowly rose.

"Wonderful! Now that that's settled, lets eat!" King White practically skipped to the dining room as Princess Carmela smiled and walked gracefully behind him.

"Snow, I don't know about this." Prince Merlin whispered into her ear.

"Merlin, she was crying, and she apologized. Everyone deserves a second chance. Didn't I give you a second chance?" She looked up at him as she raised her brows.