Requested By: OrionIsB0r3d

Genre: fluff

Spoilers: Maybe...? This takes place after season 3

Warnings: none

Dialogue Prompts: "A fairytale with a happy ending always brings a smile to my face" and "Great job out there, Y/n!" and "I should've done that so much earlier..." (The first and second prompts were provided by WinterBlue_Angel22 )

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Y/n's POV:

Being Princess Rapunzel's kid sister isn't exactly easy.

For one, I was expected to become the heir to the throne when everyone in the kingdom assumed Rapunzel was long gone. I guess I was born just so they'd have someone to take over Corona. However, now that my big sister has returned, I am no longer fit for the position of Queen. While I'm happy to have Rapunzel back, I feel like my training was all for nothing. I was expected to fit a role that I would never become.

Kinda pointless, if you ask me.

I mean, it's nice knowing that I won't have all these overwhelming expectations on me anymore. I'm free to just be me, you know?

Well, that's what I would say if I didn't have such an overbearing father, which brings me to my second point.

The King is a nice guy, don't get me wrong, but I think Rapunzel and I can both agree that he's too controlling and way too overprotective of us.

Ever since I was old enough to walk, my father always made sure I was in his sight (or the Royal Guards' sight). I wasn't free to do anything– and I mean anything! And when Rapunzel returned, he redirected his strictness onto her. Eventually, he realized that my sister is perfectly capable of taking care of herself, so he backed off from her a little bit.

Unfortunately, that doesn't stop him from trying to control me all over again.

I'm given the freedom to roam around Corona, but never anywhere past that. That means I can't visit Old Corona, where my best friend in the whole wide world lives. Thankfully, I've visited Old Corona dozens of times. My father just doesn't know about it, hehe.

In short, I'm only allowed in areas where lots of people tend to hang around. That way, I'll have less of a chance at being kidnapped.

Today is my sister's birthday, which everyone in the kingdom is reasonably excited for. Every birthday celebration for Rapunzel is special, and each one since she's returned has been even more extravagant and exciting. Lots of decorations, lanterns, sweets- you name it!

I'm in charge of the music department because of my undying love for... well, music. I think learning a musical instrument is required for most princesses, but only if it isn't taken as seriously as your other royal duties.

So, instead of playing my lyre like I would've hoped to do, I'm stuck making sure the royal band arrives on time and are performing to the best of their abilities.

Lame.

"Alright, they should be arriving in approximately an hour," I mutter to myself, lightly skimming through the scroll I was given. I'm waiting around in the ballroom, where I'm stationed until the music rehearsal is over...

... which doesn't start until they arrive.

Sighing in a bored fashion, I scan my eyes around the room, briefly admiring the architectural designs of this room. Nicely done structure... beautiful colors that don't clash... intriguing patterns...

Unfortunately, it doesn't hold my interest for long. I want to be outside doing something other than waiting. Waiting sucks.

"Hmmm..." I stroke my chin and continue to make soft humming noises for a while. "Should I...? Eh... Father won't like it, but..."

I wait...

... and wait...

... and wait...

I can't take it anymore. I jump to my feet. "Eh, they won't be here for a while. I'll just come back in an hour. No biggie!"

Yanking my satchel off the ground, I rush over to the nearest broom closet so I can get my breeches and flowy shirt on. This royal dress is incredibly difficult to run in, which can be proven by the way I'm holding up its skirt.

After I'm finished changing, I find myself sneaking around the castle. Fortunately, the entrance isn't too far away from the ballroom. I start daydreaming about the things I can do once I'm outside. I can take a stroll through town, practice that new song I've written, or see if Varian decided to stop by the kingdom yet.

Ooh, I really hope Varian will arrive soon! I think to myself, feeling my cheeks flush at the thought of seeing him.

"Where do you think you're going?"

Hearing the voice stops me dead in my tracks. Feeling a groan bubbling from my throat, I turn to face my dad. The front door is literally right in front of me! "Hey, Dad..."

King Frederic approaches me, sighing deeply. I can sense how disappointed he is. "Y/n, how many times do I have to tell you...? You're supposed to be waiting for the band in the ballroom."

"They won't be here for another hour," I complain. "I just want to go outside for a little while."

He raises an eyebrow, completely ignoring what I just said. "What in the world are you wearing?"

I briefly glance down at myself before looking back up at my father. "Something a lot more comfortable than my dress."

The King mutters something to himself that sounds a lot like, "What am I going to do with you?" Meanwhile, I'm standing awkwardly and fiddling with the sleeves of my shirt. I'm not sure how to handle this situation.

"Y/n, I want you back in the ballroom right now," Frederic demands, manually turning me around and carefully pushing me across the hallway. "Today is an important day, and I can't have you forgetting an important thing, such as the band."

Instead of fighting back, I grumble quietly to myself bitterly. There's no use arguing with him, especially when he's so dead set on something like this.

Once I'm back in the ballroom, he points to my clothes and asks, "And were you planning to change back into your dress?"

I fold my arms and furrow my brow. "If you understood just how uncomfortable corsets are, you wouldn't want to put the dress back on either."

"Fair point," he says after a while. "You can keep... those on, if you'd like. However, I want you to wear a dress to the ball at least."

I shrug. "Alright, sounds good to me."

"Good," he agrees. "Now, I'm off to attend to more of my duties. I expect you to stay put, ok?"

"Fine," I mumble.

"I'm serious. Don't go anywhere until you're free from duty." After giving me my last warning, King Frederic exits the room, closing the door behind him.

Sighing, I mutter, "Shoot..."

Time Skip To Later That Night...

"Woohoo!" Rapunzel cheers as she dances effortlessly on the ballroom dance floor. She's having a wonderful time, and I couldn't be happier for her. Her fiance, Eugene, is dancing with her.

Meanwhile, I'm dancing alone and wondering where Varian could be. I've waited all this time for nothing, and it's starting to make me feel miserable and a little lonely.

"Hey, Y/n!" Rapunzel approaches me, still moving her arms to the beat of the music. Eugene follows close behind her. "Great party, huh?"

I nod my head in agreement. "Yeah, this is great."

Rapunzel beams and takes me by the hands. "Thank you so, so much for taking care of the music. I really appreciate it."

"Yeah, no problem, Raps," I smile sheepishly at my sister.

Eugene seems to notice my lack of enthusiasm, which prompts me to mentally cringe when he says to me, "Hey, kiddo, I see you're not exactly having the time of your life."

"What? Pfft– no... I'm having loads of fun," I lie, not wanting to be a downer tonight.

"Don't lie to me, kid," Eugene says a little seriously. "I'm a certified mind reader. Tell me, what's up?"

I let out a defeated sigh, giving Rapunzel an apologetic glance before answering Eugene's question. "Do you happen to know where Varian is? I haven't seen him at all today."

"Oh, so that's what you're worried about," Eugene says with a soft laugh. Rapunzel even gives a relieved smile.

"Don't worry, Y/n. Varian's just fine," she reassures me. "He told me he's busy working on something special for me. He's just adding on the finishing touches."

"Not to mention, I have a hunch that large gatherings like this freak him out a bit," Eugene adds. "He never came off as the partying type."

I nod slowly, still bummed out that he didn't show up. "Ok... Thanks for telling me."

Rapunzel takes me by the hand and spins me around gracefully. "If it makes you feel any better, Eugene and I can be your best friends for the time being."

"No one can take Varian's place, but sure. I'll hang out with you guys."

After that, I just see where the night takes me, and spending time with my sister and future brother-in-law is simply the greatest.

Time Skip To After The Ball...

Soon after the ball, everyone is free to do as they please for the rest of the night. I'm itching to roam around outside, so I gently tug on Rapunzel's arm, gaining her attention.

"Hey, do you mind covering for me so I can change and go outside?" I request.

Catching on to my mischievous intentions, my big sister smirks and ruffles my hair. "I got you, Y/n. Don't worry, I won't let you get caught."

I smile wide, slinging my satchel on my shoulder and rushing to the broom closet once more. "Thanks! You're the best."

"No problem!" Rapunzel calls after me, keeping an eye out for the guards or the King.

When it comes to adventurous and artistic activities, Rapunzel and I have got each other's backs! She gets me so well.

Once I've returned to the comfiness of my preferred clothing, I dash out of the castle, remaining hidden in the midst of the crowd. Thankfully, nobody caught me sneaking out, and I was able to reach the town square plaza.

Standing above the sun made of tile, I carefully set my satchel down and pulled out my lyre, which was beautifully decorated in painted flowers by Rapunzel herself.

Now I can finally get everything off my chest, I think to myself, tuning my lovely string instrument. I have a song in mind to play that I've been working on for about two months. It's just barely been completed, and I'm excited to share it with the world.

By the time I've finished tuning, I look up and see that a decently sized group of people are in the surrounding area.

Perfect!

I raise my lyre to my chest and lightly strum its strings, sending a beautiful wave of music throughout the plaza. About a handful of people pause to take a listen.

Now that I've gotten their attention, I begin to play my song.

Music fills the surrounding air in a soothing light that words cannot even begin to describe. I can feel the rhythm in my heart as I pour out my soul to the audience. To them, I'm simply playing notes on a string instrument, but to me, it's something more. I'm expressing my love for Corona and its people within my song. This song tells of serenity and love as I stroll down the street– the joy I experience every time I go outside. It's simply magical, and I pray that someone else will hear it that way, too.

I give a smile as dozens of people approach me with appreciation for my music. They all appear to be having a great time listening, which is the part I always look forward to. I dance a little, swaying my hips and tapping my feet across the tile. I even spin carefully to give it a little extra ounce of life. Everyone else is eating it up, and I'm simply enjoying their excitement for the art of music. I'm glad to have pleased them.

Once the song's over, I bow and they clap. Some offer money, but I politely decline. I'm a royal princess. These people need the money more than I do. I tell them I'm just playing to make them happy, and they don't try to offer me any more money after that.

"Great job out there, Y/n!"

I turn my head to see the man himself: Varian. His arms are carrying a small box full of small trinkets and tools, and he's wearing that dorky grin I've come to admire for all these years of knowing him.

Even so, I'm a bit annoyed to see him right now. I approach him and slug his arm.

"Ow!" Varian yelps. "What was that for?"

"You weren't at the ball," I huff, putting my lyre back inside its satchel. "I stood there all alone for a while. Rapunzel and Eugene had to stand in for you."

Varian bites his lip anxiously. "I'm sorry, Y/n– I really am. I was busy with Rapunzel's gift, which I still have to finish."

"I missed you..." I fold my arms and glare at the ground, trying to hide my blushing face from him.

Varian smiles and steps closer to me, adjusting his grip on the box so he can gently smack my shoulder. "I missed you, too."

That earns him a smile from me. I fidget with the sleeve of my shirt. "I'm sorry for hitting you so hard. You didn't deserve that."

"Nah, I kinda did," Varian chuckles. "I left you hanging, and that's not something a good friend would do."

"I guess so." I tuck a strand of my hair behind my ear. "The night is still young. Wanna do something together?"

"I got Rapunzel's gift to work on," Varian says with a hint of sadness in his voice.

I smirk at him, poking his face. "Rapunzel can wait until tomorrow to receive her gift. You know her well enough to know that she'll love anything you give her. Besides, she'd want you to take a break from all the work."

"Ok, fine," Varian sputters, grinning back at me. "I'll hang out with you, but you've got to give me enough time to finish this later."

"It's a deal."

I take Varian by the hand, completely ignoring the fact that he's trying to carry a box right now. I drag him through Corona's marketplace and onto the bridge that separates Corona from Old Corona. That's when I let go of the alchemist and eagerly rush to the side of the bridge.

The way the moonlight dances on the water below the bridge inspires me to pull out my lyre once again.

This time, I play something more romantical and inspiring. Varian sets his box down and sits along the edge of the bridge to listen. I glance up at the sky and feel a smile etch across my features when I see lanterns float around the night sky. It perfectly matches the mood of the music, which is what I was going for. As I pluck each string, I start to fade away into the feel of it all. I dance once more, twirling and gliding around the bridge. Each vibration from the strings of my lyre brushes my fingers in a way that fulfills me. Occasionally, I'll glance over at Varian and see the yearnful look he's giving me. He smiles and rests his chin in his gloved hand, admiring my every move. It makes me smile, too.

When I'm finished, I walk back over to where Varian's sitting and put my lyre away once more, gazing out into the moonlit water. The lanterns leave tiny splotches of their own light in the water, giving it a unique spin.

"Hey, little ones!" A cheerful voice turns our heads towards the source of it. A man holding two lanterns stands behind us on the bridge. "Have you two released some lanterns yet? If not, I have some you can use."

I smile and take one of his lanterns. Varian does the same. "Thank you, Sir."

The man tips his hat to us. "Not a problem, young lady. Have a fun night, you two!"

And with that, he takes off.

Varian pulls out a match and phosphorus-soaked paper to light the lanterns. Once they're lit, we send them off into the sky to join the others. I lean my arms against the edge of the bridge, enjoying the view.

"You're quite inspiring, Y/n," Varian tells me. He leans right next to me.

"What do you mean?" I ask with a light scoff. "I'm not as inspiring as my sister or even you."

Now it's his turn to scoff. "Me? You think I'm inspiring?"

"Yeah," I reply. "You always invent these cool, revolutionary things, and you never give up. You inspire me to keep moving forward, even when I get frustrated with myself or when something happens."

Varian's freckled cheeks flush. "You always know how to flatter me, Y/n."

"Just doing my job." I decide to sit on the edge. "Someone's gotta do it."

"Well..." Varian's thumbs run in circles against each other. "You're just as inspiring, I think. You make wonderful music, Y/n. I've never heard anything like it before."

I smile. "Thank you."

We stay like that for a while, taking in how tranquil this moment is. I can still hear the Coronian citizens partying from a distance, but that doesn't take away anything from us. It's just us and the beautiful night sky.

"Do you think Rapunzel will have her perfect fairytale ending?" I ask suddenly, breaking the silence.

"Yeah, I think she will," Varian answers. "She's strong and can take on anything. She even has Mr. Rider by her side. I'd say she's covered."

"That's good," I say softly. "I wish the best for her."

Varian gazes at me with his chin in his hand again. "You really like fairytales, huh?"

"A fairytale with a happy ending always brings a smile to my face." I look over at him, blushing and smiling. His hair shines beautifully in the moonlight.

"You know what brings a smile to my face?" Varian asks, leaning a little closer to me.

I tilt my head to the side curiously. "What?"

"You."

The moment our lips meet, everything changes. Sparks fly and the world seems to slow down just for us. I'm caught off-guard but swiftly mingle my way into the kiss to let him know that I want this. I wrap my arms around his neck and feel just how soft his ravenette hair is. He carefully places his hands on my waist as if he were too scared to hurt me. My chest flutters with a sensation I can only pinpoint as the perfect blend of exhilaration and admiration. The way he kisses me is delicate– almost like a newborn foal. His lips are sweet and taste of blueberries. When we part, I have to hold myself back from kissing him again.

"I should've done that so much earlier..." Varian breathes out, his face as bright as a cherry. He brushes his bangs out of his pretty, blue eyes. "I'm sorry if that was sudden."

"No, not at all." I speak quietly, still catching my breath. "It was... wonderful. Did you... Did you mean that?"

Varian nods his head. "Y–Yeah, of course I meant it! I wouldn't have saved that kiss for anyone else."

A breathy chuckle leaves my lips. "Really? Wow, I... I don't know what to say."

"I'm in love with you, Y/n," he confesses bashfully, "I have been for a while."

"Me too," I say. I catch myself on my mistake. "W–Wait, I mean that I'm in love with you– not me."

Varian laughs before reaching for my hand. "Does that mean you...?"

"Yes," I blurt out. "I would love it if you were my boyfriend."

"Cool." Varian seems to be at a loss for words. He's blushing furiously and the way he holds my hand reminds me of a shy child. He's so adorable.

I give his hand a gentle squeeze before asking, "Wanna kiss again?"

Word Count: 3315

I apologize for the wait. Life gets busy when you're in a Senior in high school 🙏

I know I said I wouldn't do the word counts anymore, but someone gave me a link to a word counting website, which I will be using from now on. Thank you! ❤️

I had a lot of fun writing this one shot! The concept and prompts were absolutely wonderful, and I could feel myself getting immersed in the story while I was writing it

I still have a few requests left, so expect some more soon! I hope you enjoyed it, and I'll see you all in the next chapter 💖💖💖