Hope Emily Nightingale
               Three months ago.

I was awakened by the ringing of my phone, jolting me from sleep. I glanced at the screen and saw that it was Serafina calling. She was like the little sister I never had. Despite not being related by blood, we were closer than any of her unpleasant cousins. Without hesitation, I answered the call.

"Were you sleeping?"

I wasn't surprised that she was shocked, as I could barely get any sleep due to constant nightmares about my parents' death and the immense workload that comes with being the Queen of Bleakstorm Island, a small country in Europe. Originally, my older brother was supposed to rule, but he passed the title to me, believing I was better suited for the throne.

"Yeah it's 4 am here Fina for god's sake."

I could hear her weak laughter on the other end, and instantly sensed that something was amiss. I immediately inquired about what was troubling her.

"I'm getting married." she said.

I gasped. "Wait, really? When did this happen? Are you telling me that someone actually managed to melt that icy heart of yours, Ice Princess? But why do you seem upset about it? Did he do something to upset you? Do you want me to kick him in the arse?"

"Not really. My parents arranged the marriage. He's a nice guy, but it's still a bit unexpected."

"Uh oh!" I said, finally catching up to what was going on. "I'm coming over. I'll meet up with you in another 5 to 6 hours."

"Hope you don't really have to. I know you already have plenty of work to do."

"Work can wait. Family always comes first and you are my family." I said " Oh and you might wanna let your parents know as early as possible. They're not a big fan of me."

I understood perfectly well why her parents disliked me. Despite having several male friends who were just that—friends—they were convinced that I was romantically involved with them and believed I was a negative influence on Fina.

They can think whatever they want. I've known Serafina since I was six years old. We met when she stood up for me against a group of bullies. From that moment, I knew I would protect her with my life. We've been inseparable ever since. She knows all of my secrets, including the fact that I'm a witch, and she accepts me for who I am.

"Dean!!"  I called out to my brother, and he emerged from his room with his 9-month-old daughter, Ava, perched on his shoulder, her tiny hands clutching onto his hair.

"I'm going to visit Fina. I'll be back in a few days." I leaned over to him, planted a kiss on his cheek, and then bestowed a gentle kiss on the back of Ava's hand before taking my leave.

Upon arriving at the airport, I boarded our family's private jet and settled into my favorite seat. After two months, I was finally going to see Fina.