Chapter 4 ( New Chapter )
(Chapter Updated: 2/2/22 )
Hello everyone! Sorry for the long wait, but I've been working really hard on this story! Ive gotten about 4 chapters ahead and have been waiting for a while to post them! I thank you all for your patience and hope you enjoy this new chapter! Ive included a new character that was never in the original story, so make sure to tell me how much you enjoy her! As always, sending love to you all and hoping for a safe and beautiful week!
With much love,
MynameisAppleUWU~
‧̍̊·̊‧̥°̩̥˚̩̩̥͙°̩̥‧̥·̊‧̍̊ ♡ °̩̥˚̩̩̥͙°̩̥ ·͙*̩̩͙˚̩̥̩̥*̩̩̥͙·̩̩̥͙*̩̩̥͙˚̩̥̩̥*̩̩͙‧͙ °̩̥˚̩̩̥͙°̩̥ ♡ ‧̍̊·̊‧̥°̩̥˚̩̩̥͙°̩̥‧̥·̊‧̍̊
Britain let out a shaky breath, his hand hovering a few inches away from the dark oak door. On the other side of this door lay France, and no matter he wanted to deny it, there was just something about her. Of course, Britain had scolded himself about becoming soft to the person he was being forced to marry, but it was inevitable so he had just accepted it. He supposed it could have been much worse.
Running a quick hand through his hair, the prince swiftly knocked and started holding his breath. A few people rustled around from inside, but nobody answered the door for a good minute. The large door opened just a crack, a servant peering out from the other side. Britain quickly recognized the blonde hair, and blue eyes of the person, it was France's friend from earlier. Maybe if he established a friendship with them, it would help gain some more trust from the princess. It was clear that France was not one to easily hand over her trust.
" Good morning sir. France is almost ready to go! You can come in if you want " her accent was thick, but sweet and warm at the same time. A reassuring tone that calmed Britain's nerves. Brushing his suit off in nervousness, the prince gently cracked open the door, not expecting what was on the other side.
" Hold still France. I can't do anything with you wiggling around " the servant playfully scowled, tugging at the corset of a crisp white dress. France groaned, throwing her head back in what could only be assumed to be agony.
" Don't give me that Mina. You wouldn't want to stand here and have someone suffocate you to death " she protested, but let the servant continue their work. Britain watched with a curious eye. The princess looked so different. Her brown hair was pulled up and curled with a small bun, a matching pair of pearl earrings completing the look. He gulped slightly, rubbing the back of his palms for some sort of comfort.
Of course, he felt bad for barging in and having to invade her personal space, but there was no going back now. Mina continued to tug on the dress for a few seconds before taking a step back and admiring her work.
" Alright, you're ready. Have fun princess~ " she teased with a smack on the back. France let out a small 'oof ' and wobbled slightly off-balance, but quickly recomposed herself. In a very un royal-like behavior she giggled and smacked the servant back with a smirk in a childish way.
" Yeah, yeah, don't think too much of - '' she turned around slowly. Britain watched as her purple gaze was now glued on him as he awkwardly watched the scene unfold. Britain waved slightly, watching France's lavender eyes scan him with anger and embarrassment. It felt as if the tension in the room could choke him.
" You let him in here " the princess hissed at the servant, turning to her in distress. Mina raised her hands defensively.
" France, he's gonna be your husband, you're going to have to get used to it at one point or another " the shorter servant rambled back. The two seemed to be at odds for a few seconds, but the princess eventually let it go. France groaned, wiping a hand down her face glancing back at Britain. The prince felt oddly intimidated as she stomped her heels against the floor.
" Let's go " France pushed past him, her fancy shoes clacking against the marble floor. The Brit watched her with a worried face. This was never going to work. The two were like oil and water; so different and nothing alike.
They were going to hate each other for all eternity. He watched sickly as she slipped down the hall.
" Don't worry about it sir, '' the servant strolled up next to him " She'll get over it in time. France is one hard nut to crack. It's nice to meet you, the name is Mina, servent to the royal pain. " she stuck her hand out with confidence. Britain blinked a few times, but quickly shook the hand with a smile. This was the first step to gaining some trust.
" You better get going. She's not going to wait for you. '' Mina smiled, giving a small courtesy. Britain chuckled, he wasn't used to such free-speaking servants, most of them were afraid to even look at him. Maybe they were treated much different in Paris.
Taking in a deep breath he thanked Mina then sprinted down the hall, quickly catching up with France who couldn't travel very fast in her large heels. He was quickly greeted with the side-eye and being refused to be spoken with. He was confused. France absolutely hated him. He knew many girls inside the country that would chance him around wanting to marry. Why was she any different?!
Britain absolutely hated the string of awkward tension between the two. He could never live like this, marry someone like this. Pulling himself together the Prince cleared his throat, gaining the attention of the girl beside him.
" You look nice" he complimented the Princess, attempting to get some sort of positive reaction from her. France let out a sarcastic laugh and looked at him with a scowl.
" Enough with the flattery. I don't need you to feel good about myself." she turned back to the hall.
The Brit quickly shut his mouth, glancing away with narrowed eyes. He didn't need to dig himself a deeper grave. France wasn't going to be happy with anything he did or said at this point. It was useless to try. The prince let out a silent sigh, strolling alongside the girl. He was starting to become worried, and more than usual.
This was never going to work if she wouldn't even listen to him,let alone even give him a chance. Continuing forth, Britain looked around, trying to seem interested in something else. Eyes running along the walls and the curtains that they passed, attempting to find something elegant to look at to help him escape from this awkward moment. He was just shamed by the daughter of an enemy. Nonetheless, he knew he looked like an utter fool at this point, but it was better than gaining a scolding from France.
Making their way to the front gate, two tall and formally dressed royal guard's joined behind them. France glanced back rolling her eyes at the two tall soldiers. Making their way to the front gate, two tall and formally dressed royal guard's joined behind them. France glanced back rolling her eyes at the two tall soldiers. She was convinced she needed no help when it came to protecting herself against others. Everyone made it seem like a girl couldn't fight. That had to be a lie.
A few paces from the gates, a single sentry, holding a large wooden box, greeted France with a salute.
"Good day, Lady France!"
"Good day, " She greeted politely pushing the front gate open with a fair swoop. A carriage, pulled by four white horses, halted at the gate and a servant stepped out waving his hand in welcome. The sentry leaned against the outpost, seemingly unafraid of such power before him.
" Are you going to see your sister today my lady? " The officer asked, clearing his throat nervously at the young man that stood beside France.
"Yes, I shall see her. Hopefully, she does not cause any trouble to anyone while we are there. You know how father gets around her. " she responded carefully. The man seemed to think for a quick second before responding.
"It's been too long since the two of you have seen each other. It might be a good thing. Just make sure she behaves herself " He warned with a smirk. France nodded and helped herself into the carriage, taking her seat. Britain was quick to follow, trying his best not to step on the French princess's long dress. He took a seat across the isle from her and stared out the small window as the horses started forward. He could feel France's eyes burning holes in his back. The uncomfortable feeling grew on him before he turned and gave her a questioning glance. France clicked her tongue and placed her hands in her lap.
"When was the last time you attended a ball? " she asked her face set in a composed mask.
"I can't remember the last time I went to one" he replied, honestly. The princess slumped and shook her head, and for a minute Britain thought that he had done something wrong.
" I'm going to give you a little advice with these kinds of things so listen very carefully to what I have to say. This is not going to be any formal gala, nor is it the kind of social event you are used to. You are traveling with me, and therefore must uphold the values of my country as I will yours. I do not consider myself your servant, and you should not consider me yours. I expect you to treat me with the proper respect that I deserve, and if anyone asks we are not engaged no matter what my father says." She spoke in a cold tone, sending chills down his spine.
" Alright. I guess that's fair " he rubbed the back of his neck, unsure what else to say. The french girl nodded firmly.
" Also.. " she started. " As you have heard my sister will be there as well. It would be best if you did not show any form of attachment to me when she is in our presence. Despite us being sisters, we are completely different in a lot of ways. My sister also has a long-standing bad history in my family, so dont engage if she comes to you. " She lowered her head. Britain let out an understanding sound, unsure in his mind of how he would deal with two versions of Frace plus his younger siblings who had also decided to show up later in the day. He could already tell this was going to be a fiasco.
Having family around always seemed to go wrong in one way or another. They always seemed to find a way to criticize each other in one way or another. Of course, Britain was used to this by now, but it still was embarrassing nonetheless. It was hard to be proper and professional with four annoying siblings at your side the entire night. The Brit shoved the thought aside, trying to find a better use for his time or at the very least enjoy the ride. The light blue British sky slowly melted into cotton candy pink clouds as the carriage continued forth.
The faint smell of sea salt mixed with a light floral scent of flowers permeated the air as the two of them traveled along the beach in utter silence. France, who seemed to be trying to avoid looking at him was staring out ahead of her, holding her bangs back with a gentle grasp as she stared down at the cobblestone roads that had been worn smooth with the passage of time. Her eyes seemed to be downcast as if she was somewhere else in her mind. Britain couldn't help but watch for a few seconds. Despite her snappy attitude and stubbornness she still had a sweetness that lay on the other side. He knew it would take a lot of work and coaxing to be able to have her open up, but now was the time to start.
She was going to be his wife bottom line. There was no going back, no fighting the word of the king, no finding that life he so desperately wanted. He was trapped and just making the situation would make everything worse in the future. He had to face the problem head-on and finally accept that this was what was going to happen, this was going to be his life.
" Britain?! Yes, you! Were you sleeping already?! I can't believe this. " France waved a hand in his face causing the prince to flinch in surprise. He glanced around a few times, only then realizing that he had drifted off into a fantasy world of his thoughts. France had a deep scowl on her face. He had to think of something, and something fast.
" No! No I wasn't sleeping, just thinking that's all. " he dusted off his outfit, trying to find an excuse that would work with the girl. France didn't seem to be impressed by his terrible lying skills. She placed a hand on her hip and stood over him.
" What do you take me as, a dog? Come on we have to get in there before my father hunts me down thinking you did something. " she kicked him with her large shoes. Britain winced as he sat up, hitting his head on the roof. So much for impressing the girl. France hopped out of the carriage, stretching happily taking in the fresh evening air. The British prince stumbled out a few seconds later, still rubbing his head to which France proceeded to laugh at. Britain couldn't tell what hurt more, his head or his pride.
France wasnt willing to waste any time as she started up the large cobblestone drive to the building at the top of the hill. It was unusually small for it being a gala with large powers, but if his father believed it would work Britain didn't question it one bit.
France wasnt willing to waste any time as she started up the large cobblestone drive to the building at the top of the hill. It was unusually small for it being a gala with large powers, but if his father believed it would work Britain didn't question it. He trailed at France's side as the sweet sound of a violin filled the air. A few people stood outside in the front of the building, but they paid them no mind as they matched closer. He recognized a few British officials, as well as annoying foreign officials from other countries that liked to bug him.
Anxiety flared from inside him as he caught sight of a few large powers and friends. How was this ever going to work? He didn't want to look like a fool in front of everyone." I made my rules clear. You better follow them " France hissed from beneath him, grabbing his arm gently. Britain didn't notice for a few seconds before he felt the warmth of her hand in his. He blinked a few seconds, feeling his ears heat up slightly. Maybe this wouldn't be too bad he reassured himself, as he helped the princess up the large marble stairs.
Warm air hit his face as the two took a step inside. It was almost an instant switch the second they walked in as the orchestra slowly stopped playing and everyone turned with confused faces to catch the sight of the two. Britain felt himself start to sweat at all the attention. France stood at his side with a plastered a smile and nudged him in the side to say something.
But for some reason, somehow the Brit couldn't speak. It was like he was paralyzed. France felt her embarrassment bubble up inside her. She wasn't just going to stand here and look like a fool. Not now.
" Bonjour... " she waved slightly at the crowd of onlookers. The building lay quiet for a quick second before someone cheered from the back of the building. Britain could tell that voice from anywhere, it was Scotland. He leaned over to France's ear and quietly whispered.
" What do I do" She looked at him annoyed, but still in character.
" Say something... Anything! " she almost pleaded. Britain swallowed hard and looked back up to the sea of onlookers.
" Uhh. Hello. My name is Britain, and I am...extremely happy to be here. I hope you all enjoy the party? " he spoke to the crowd. Silence once again settled over everyone until there was a wave of clapping and cheering. He quickly looked back to France and was almost proud of himself. She gave him a look of spite, pulling him off to an empty table.
" What are you doing!? Do you know what you just did?! " She shoved him into a chair. Britain looked up at her with blush covering his face.
" I didn't know that they would do that! " he shot back in defense. France crossed her arms and gave him a terrible look. Britain swallowed. The princess paced around a few steps pinching the bridge of her nose.
" I can't believe you did that " she looked up at the Brit as he shifted nervously in the chair.
" You just embarrassed me in front of a whole crowd of empires and friends! "
" I'm sorry I didn't mean to " his eyes looked pleading as he stared at her.
France threw her hands in the air and tapped her foot on the ground seemingly in thought. Britain didn't like the look on her face.
" You know what. You stay here. Dont move until I get back, and don't talk to anyone but your siblings. You got that?! " she pointed an angry finger at him. The Brit looked down at his feet as he nodded.
" Ok... " he watched as France strolled away. It was true he didn't like getting bossed around by a princess but was to scared to see what would happen if he didn't listen. At this point he was half tempted to say something back to her, but would probably lose his head over it. To make matters worse not only were his siblings prowling around but both of their parents as well. If he was ever caught talking to a princess like that he was sure that would be kicked from the royal family. But she was just some girl, without the crown she'd be a housewife.
He grumbled quietly. "I'm the future king. A woman can't tell me what to do. You'd be a housewife, or a slave... I guess not that. She's too pretty for that."
" What was that " a gruff voice spoke from behind him. Britain turned around with a huff but was found face to face to a blue,white, and red striped flag. For a second he thought that France had returned, but after a closer look, he realized that they were different. The flag was the same as France's but darker in a way. A large scar was visible over their right eye and their clothes were anything but fancy. Britain leaned forward suddenly wishing that France hadn't left.
" Uhhh. " he stuttered slightly as the female next to him stood up tall and straight. She searched him up and down for a few seconds before suddenly grabbing him by the collar.
" So your the putz that's supposed to marry my little sister huh. " she sneered his face. Britain felt himself sink lower to the ground as he was completely speechless. Sister, he thought. Sister. It finally dawned on him who it was.
" Dont think I've never heard of you" the woman replied, her blue eyes suddenly filled with rage. He opened his mouth to speak but nothing came out of it.
"I see she got the whole royal blood thing going on. She sure is a pretty one. " the twin grinned at Britain's discomfort.
" I uh... I" the prince tried to escape her grip but she stopped him, her grip firm on his suit. The royal didn't know what to do. France had told him not to engage, but it was pretty much useless at this point.
"Let's get a few things straight right here right now lover boy. One, dont you ever talk about my sister like that again or we're going to have a problem. Two, we're going to play nice from now on, got it? And three, if I hear you did anything to make her uncomfortable, I'll make sure that you'll have a scar just like me... " she threatened. Britain gulped, staring the stranger straight in the eyes.
" Vichy! Let him go! " a familiar voice yelled from a few feet away. Britain turned his head and France with a bottle of Champagne in one hand. The girl that was holding onto him let go, and the prince fell to the ground with a thud." What did I say about leaving the suitors alone. " she stomped closer, placing the bottle on the table. The taller female shrugged and looked away as if nothing had happened.
" I didn't do much little sis, dont give me that. Just making sure this new little prince knows the rules around here. " she sneered at the Brit who still sat on the ground. France reached out a hand and helped Britain up.
" Still. Do you know what father would do if he saw you two together? You have to be more careful about these kinds of situations. " she whispered in a hushed tone. Vichy rolled her eyes with a chuckle." I'm always careful. Now you be careful, I'm going to get a drink " she flicked a flower off the table cloth then disappeared back into the sea of people.
The real France let out an audible sigh and took a seat at the table.
"What did I tell you... " she popped open the bottle, pouring the fizzy drink into a glass. The prince once again dusted off his suit and took a more careful seat at the table making sure to look around him once in a while.
" I didn't start that! She came to me... Is that really your sister? " he asked in half disbelief. France could be aggressive, but never that aggressive. The female nodded, taking a small sip.
" She's my sister by blood and technically was supposed to marry first. Be glad she isn't.. "
" I am glad. What was her deal? "
"As I said earlier if you were listening, Vichy has a bad track record with the family. She was a nice kid and enjoyed doing all the normal stuff a kid would but as she got older so did the defiance. My father hated her leaving the castle at any time and started to lock her up. That only made things worse. The two despised each other until she turned fifteen. A loyalist of my father caught her slinking around a well-known resistance group and she was kicked out. My family wanted nothing to do with her. If it wasn't for my explicit permission she wouldn't have been here either. I dont want to even know what would happen if she and my father got into another fight... " the princess sounded half disgusted.
Britain shivered. He was glad his siblings never turned out like that. Ireland was a bit of a handful for a while, and Scotland followed in his footsteps but none of them were like that.
" Oi wee brother~" a voice snuck up from behind. Britain perked up slightly. He was going to kill Scotland if he said anything stupid.
" Scotland? I thought you were with Ireland or something?! " the older brother pulled up a chair at the table." Ah was. We waur talkin' to some real nice looking girls until old irelain got a bit tipsy and split a drink oa their dress. He got clobbered ower th' head fur that one!
" The light blue isle let out a laugh. France chuckled slightly as Britan stared at his older brother.
" That's great. Dad is going to be real happy over having to pay for some random girl ruined dress " he swiped the glass of alcohol away from his brother before finishing it off.
The three chatted back and forth for a little while until a loud tink on a glass rang out through the room. The loud chatter of people slowly died down and the strong and confident voice of Britain's father spoke up.
" Thank you everyone for coming! This party was arranged today for a very special reason that many of you have yet to know. To share this information I turn it over to my very own son and the princess and heir of the French throne. "
France's face went pale. She stared at Britain as the crowd turned back to them.
This was not good.
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