sylphie

“But you said, how could I even care if the Gods were against us? But I care if they’re against us. Don’t you care if our fate is against us?” - Sarah Kinsley

This story is narrated by yours truly, Brooke Page.

Chapter 0: Introduction

It is our fairytale fledglings’ final year at Ever After High; Senior Year. Through their spellmesters of countless harrowing homeworks, unforgettably enchanting classes, and everlasting relationships formed with their peers, some have found themselves entangled in the irresistible bonds of love. As told by the fairytales of old, romance is an essential component to any good story. Before they set out on the paths their parents took many pages before them, one final spellebration stands between these lovebirds and their happily ever after.

At the end of the school year, a glamorous banquet is thrown for the seniors, where all of the couples dawn their sparkliest tiaras and most dashing suits. Known as the Lovers Legacy Ball, this love-honoring event has been a tradition for the seniors of Ever After High since the school’s inception. It is an annual occasion where the children of romance stories spellebrate the love awaiting them in the future. Many a parties are thrown before their graduation, yet this one is always the most highly anticipated of them all.

For the Royals, especially those whose parents are known for their iconic love stories and regal weddings, the pressure to find the perfect date to the ball is on now more than ever. Though still a few chapters away, the Lovers Legacy Ball is all the halls are gossiping about! 

Chapter 1

A delicate hand held up a compact mirror, encrusted in gold and diamonds with a ruby red gemstone embedded in the back, cut in the shape of a fruit. “Mirror, Mirror, in my hand. Who’s the fairest in the land?”

The glass of the mirror lit up, and a heavenly voice rang out with clairvoyance. ”Who else but the darling daughter of our gracious queen, Apple White?”

Apple giggled softly and continued dabbing on powder to her rosy cheeks. “Oh, Mirror! You always know just what to say.” She raised her magic compact mirror to her face, analyzing her flawless makeup.

”But of course, your Highness. Looking as princessly as ever.” A smile could be heard in the mirror’s omniscient voice.

“You flatter me, Mirror. Can you please read me my schedule for today?” Apple dabbed the sponge into the blush once more while she listened.

”Certainly…” The mirror’s glass swirled with smokey blues and purples until in the center appeared a written log of Apple’s day, stylized in amador font. Each section highlighted as the mirror narrated them aloud. “9:30AM, arrive at Ever After High. 10AM, move into your dorm. 12PM, lunch with Raven @ Hocus Latte. 2PM, convocation. 4PM, shoe shopping with Ashlynn and Briar…” The list went on. Once finished, the text went away in a foggy swirl until the glass was once again a plain mirror.

Satisfied, Apple shut the compact and dropped it into her clutch. She then set it down on the red leather of the seat beside her before getting up and knocking on a small window at the opposite end of the carriage. It slid open, revealing a chauffeur in a spiffy white suit with gold accents, perfectly matching the interior of the White Family’s finest vehicle. “Hexcuse me, driver?”

”Yes, Miss White?” His eyes never came off the road.

”How soon will we be there?”

”I’d say about 15 minutes.”

Apple reached into her dress pocket and pulled out her MirrorPhone. The time was 9:15. She smiled and put it back. “Perfect. Thank you!”

The chauffeur nodded and shut the dividing screen.

Sitting back in the plush velvet car seat, Apple took a gentle breath to calm her nerves. She turned to watch the lush of The Enchanted Forest roll by outside of the carriage window. Butterflies of hexcitement and fear fluttered about inside the young royal as she thought of the eventful day to come. Surely Blondie would be waiting at the school’s entrance, interviewing every important royal and rebel as they arrived. With the Lovers Legacy Ball happening this year, all Mirror Cast viewers had one thing on their minds- romance.

Although such a crucial part of her story, Apple had neglected the subject for quite some time. Ever since the incident with Raven’s mom a few pages back, her future lover had been completely up in the air. Daring Charming couldn’t wake her when she was poisoned, he couldn’t do the one thing he had to be able to do in order to fulfill their stories. After being convinced for so long that he was the one, it left Apple feeling the most uncertain about her future she had ever felt. And for someone who’s entire life has been finalized by quill and ink since before the first draft of her existence, it was a feeling she didn’t like. However, hope wasn’t entirely lost. After all, someone had woken Apple- and it wasn’t Daring.

The flora outside the carriage window gradually transitioned into cobblestone streets and dainty shops- the Village of Book End. They would be approaching the school any minute now. Apple smiled as she recognized the faces that lined the streets. She watched as old friends sitting outside of cafes, familiar store owners hard at work, and other classmates making their way to school on foot rolled past through the tinted window. It was nice to be back after being cooped up in her family’s castle all summer.

Speaking of family, her MirrorPhone chimed with a hext alert as Apple gazed out the window. She looked down at the message- it was her mother letting her know that the dwarves had finished bringing all of the furniture up to her dorm room. Queen White was proficient as always, staying 3 steps ahead of everyone. Even her own daughter. Apple pulled her schedule up to change it. Seeing as she was now free for the next few hours, she once again knocked on the driver’s window.

”Find somewhere to park for a while, please! I am going to walk around for a bit.”

”Of course, Miss White.”

Chapter 2

The streets of Book End were bustling with fairytale children. Though it was nice to stretch her legs after a long car ride, she couldn’t help but notice the stares from everyone she passed by. Plenty of underclassmen who were out exploring the village with their friends had stopped in their tracks to gawk at Apple, hardly being subtle about their whispers and giggles to each other. This treatment wasn’t all that different from how her public appearances typically went. In previous years, this was where she was really in her element the most- basking in the glory of her birthright to popularity. Whether she was hanging on Daring’s arm and looking like the most perfectly picturesque couple in all of Ever After, or cohorting with her fableous and equally royal girlfriends, or simply shining bright on her own as the future queen she was. However, she hardly felt like she was “shining” now. Within the whispers of the students around her there seemed to be strong undertones of shock and gossip, rather than the standard awe and praise.

Feeling peculiarly self conscious, she took out her compact mirror and checked her makeup as she walked. Not a lash or sparkle was out of place, yet seeing her flawless look still didn’t calm her nerves. It certainly couldn’t be her outfit. Apple knew that her dress was undoubtedly the fairest in all the land, the delicate reds and golds of her ensemble were as enchanting as ever. Silly as it may seem, she was convinced that her hair was the subject of all this chatter today. There were many things was known for- her royal status, her famous mother, her wardrobe, etc. But there was another essential characteristic about Apple that she had proudly carried with her throughout her life- her hair. Since birth, she had kept her locks long and voluminous. The people of Ever After had always joked that she might as well be Rapunzel’s daughter. While it was the common style for girls her age, Royals and Rebels alike, to have lengthy and luscious hair, Apple’s platinum cascading curls were the most envied. However, when her mother was her age, Snow White had worn her hair short. It wasn’t until the end of her fairytale that she grew it out. So, as both an ode to her mother and a desire to ensure her story stays on track, Apple spent the past weekend chopping it all off. Now, it rested by her ears in a cute bob, still delicately curled as she always kept it.

This change was sudden and still fresh, especially to her. She probably lost 5 pounds with how much she cut off, it was hard to adjust to. Her parents both loved it, and her mother was incredibly flattered by the gesture. As for the rest of the world, well, they hadn’t seen her new ‘do yet. Until now, that is.

Apple gently adjusted sections of hair in her mirror, trying to make it look as presentable as possible. While concentrating on blocking out the whispers around her, she almost ran into the door of Hocus Latte as it swung open. She jumped back, losing her grip on her compact. It landed at the feet of two familiar faces as they stepped out of the bakery. “Apple?” Her heart skipped a beat. Before her stood the walking reminder that Daring wasn’t her prince- Rosabella Beauty (aka, Daring’s new girlfriend).

Rosabella adjusted her glasses as if they were playing tricks on her, for she could hardly believe what she was seeing. A confused smile grew on her face. “Your… Your hair! It’s so-“

”-Gorgeous!” A shrill and sweet voice finished Rosabella’s sentence for her. The other walking reminder of her destined-partner-dilemma bent down and grabbed the mirror, holding it out with a charming smile. Darling Charming stepped forward and placed it in Apple’s palm, looking down at her and admiring her new look. “You look wonderlandiful, Apple! When did you cut it?”

Her peachy cheeks suddenly growing a little peachier, Apple giggled nervously as she looked up at Darling. She wished she had put on heels today. “Why, thank you! I just did it this weekend…”

Darling’s smile only grew wider. “You did it?”

Rosabella stepped around Darling to also look at Apple’s haircut closer. “…Willingly?”

Darling shot Rosabella a look, but Apple found the comment amusing. “Yes, willingly,” she said with a giggle. At least she wasn’t being… directly insulted.

”Well, it’s good to see you again, Apple.” Darling pulled her in for a hug. The embrace was warm, and made Apple feel even warmer. She could feel Darling’s muscles through the fabric of her top- a lacy piece with a regal gold and blue metal corset over it. If anyone could make armor look natural, it was her. Always the perfect blend of femininity and sophistication was the Charming Family’s dearest daughter. Hugging Darling back, Apple noted how she smelled of bluebells- a sweet and earthy scent. The perfume lingered in her mind, even after their hug ended.

Rosabella smiled and hugged Apple next, though quicker and less intimate than Darling did. “What made you go for the big chop? I never thought you’d make such a huge change to your appearance like this.”

Apple took one of her soft curls in between her fingers, twirling it around as she spoke. “My mother had her hair this length when she was my age. I want my story to go hexactly like hers, gotta stay faithful to the details!”

“Not every detail, right?” Darling commented. “It is your story, after all…”

“Well, she kept it blonde!” Rosabella gestured out to Apple’s cut and smiled. “I like it like this, it’s got your own personal charm. Plus, it’s spella cool that you did it yourself.”

Apple put her mirror back into her purse, beaming now from all the compliments. The insecurities from before melted away. “Thank you, girls!! I’ll admit, I was nervous to see what everyone thinks of it.”

“Please, everyone would love you even if you shaved it all off!” Rosabella teased.

Apple giggled. “You both look as elegant as ever. Have you been to school yet?”

Darling chuckled and shook her head. “We’re trying to avoid Blondie for as long as possible. Dex says she’s got him on camera duty again, and he’s been on his feet since the crack of dawn!”

“Yeah, we were watching her MirrorCast inside the cafe. She’s not letting anyone get by without an interview.” Rosabella pointed into the window of Hocus Latte, where they had “Just Right” playing on the TV screen. Blondie Lockes was holding her microphone to Hopper Croakington II, who is barely on screen for a minute before stuttering and transforming into a frog. The camera pans downwards to continue filming him.

Apple nervously laughs, dreading her interview just as much as the others. Though she would love to not do the interview altogether, the constant pressure from her mother to maintain a perfect public image meant Apple would show face no matter what. “That’s Blondie for you… If you’d let me, I’d be fairy happy to avoid her with you!”

Darling nods, linking arms with Apple unhesitatingly. “We’d love that!” 

Apple’s heart beat fast as Darling pressed her body against her. The trio strolled down the streets of Book End together now. Curious, Apple continued the conversation of the interviews. “What seems to be the nature of Blondie’s questions?”

Rosabella chuckled dryly, adjusting her bright red frames as she spoke. “The same as any other year. She’s asking about Thronecoming plans, class schedules, summer break activities- you know, just general stuff. But, of course, the questions for the seniors…” She turns to face Apple now, with a look of utter annoyance. “...are all about the Lovers Legacy Ball.”

Darling nodded eagerly, putting off the complete opposite vibes about the subject compared to Rosabella. “Some of the answers we saw were really cute! Ashlynn and Hunter went up together. They seem to be going strong.”

”Briar said she’s bringing some prince from Beanstalk High as her date to the ball,” Rosabella said as she rolled her eyes at her cousin’s party-girl antics. “She told me she’s not really into this guy, but since everyone in our class already has a date, it’s either a giant or no date at all. And you know Briar- always go big or go home.”

The girls laughed at this, though deep down Apple felt a gnawing at her heart. Her closest friends all had dates to the ball, and she didn’t. Even though having a date wasn’t mandatory, it was still tradition, and Apple would be damned before she passed up an opportunity to participate in traditions. Though, the mere thought that she wouldn’t be able to was haunting her…

Noticing the sudden quiet that befell her friend, Darling looked down at Apple. She figured a change of subject would be best. “So, who are you rooming with this year?”

”Hm?” Apple looked up at Darling, taking a second to come back to reality after being so lost in her thoughts. “Oh, nobody actually. I got a private suite- the south tower.”

“No way, isn’t that one like 3 floors?” Rosabella asked in disbelief.

Apple nodded. “It is, but the tower itself is quite skinny.” Coming from a girl who grew up in the kingdom’s greatest castle, this didn’t mean much.

Darling giggled. “Still- lucky you! So much space to decorate. I’ll have to swing by sometime and see what you do with the place.”

Apple smiled up at Darling as a slight blush returned to her cheeks. “Yes! Absolutely! I’d love to have you over.” She looked over to Rosabella, not wanting to make her feel left out. “And you as well. My doors are always open to you both!”

”Thanks, Apple.” Rosabella smiled politely, though she knew she would not be taking her up on that offer. Neither girl would ever dare say it aloud, but a strange awkwardness between them was more potent than ever. 

“Are the two of you still roomies as always?” Apple asked in return.

Both Darling and Rosabella nodded. The two princesses had been sharing a dorm for 3 years straight now. “Of course! We work so well together, why mess with perfection?” Rosabella replied with a smile towards her roommate.

Darling smiled back, and Apple felt another sensation brewing within her. It was silly, it was childish and she knew it, but a tinge of jealousy struck at seeing the fond closeness between Rosabella and the enchanting bluebell heroine who had unknowingly pierced her sword straight through her gentle heart.

“How sweet! You two really do make a great pair,” Apple said with a smile to mask all of the mixed emotions bubbling inside. “So, what classes are you both taking this spellmester?” She quickly threw out the question for a change of subject. Her hand still gently wrapped around Darling’s bicep, Apple yearned for the same intimacy which Rosabella got to share with her everyday. Though she knew the two girls were just friends, sometimes the mind knows what the heart cannot. And at the time, all Apple’s heart knew was that it had an unrelenting craving for the rich sweetness that was Darling Charming.

For how long Apple had had this crush on Darling, she could not say. They had been good friends for as long as she could remember, and Darling had always been a lady whom Apple admired. Perhaps it started over the last year, when it dawned on her that she would soon have to explore her options for her future lover. Or maybe even sooner than that, when she learned that Darling had been the one to wake her from her poison slumber. From a logistical perspective, that event alone qualified Darling to play the role of Apple’s princess charming in their story. And from an emotional perspective, Darling really was a darling. In every regard she was as sweet as a songbird, always treating others with the utmost respect and carrying herself with powerful grace. She was the pinnacle of elegance and tenderness, while simultaneously being the strongest person Apple knew. All in all, Darling was Apple’s top choice for a partner. Whether or not Apple was her choice, that was a question that sent her tumbling down a well of anxiety. Trapped in her doubts and insecurities, she had yet to even utter a word of her feelings to anyone.

The three princesses continued down the street together, discussing the upcoming school year and the passing summer. Apple savored the time in Darling’s presence, though her apprehensions followed close behind as they walked down the cobbled roads, a rouge thought of disquiet catching up and stinging in the back of her mind every once in a while. Eventually, the royals departed from one another and Apple was off to school for the dreaded interview.

Chapter 3

Hours later, inside Hocus Latte, business buzzed about the cafe floor as villagers and students came and went. After a long and stressful morning, Apple was delighted for her date at noon with Raven. Sitting by the window at a table for two, she sipped her caramel apple latte as she scanned the streets of Book End, waiting for one of her favorite queens in all of Ever After to arrive. Since they were roommates during Legacy Year, the two had remained close. Whether or not that was ideal for their fairytale, Apple didn’t mind. She highly valued her friendship with Raven despite what fate had in mind for them.

The bell at the front of the cafe rang as the door opened, a gothic beauty entering. Raven Queen looked around before spotting Apple, to which she waved with a smile.

Apple lit up with hexcitement, running over to greet her. She giggled as she wrapped her BFFA (best friend forever after) in a tight squeeze. “Raven!!”

“Apple!!” They held each other for a moment before separating with giggles. “Your hair is killer!”

Despite the dozens of compliments on her hair she had gotten today, this one meant the most. “Thank you! How are you, fairest friend?? I missed you this summer.” She leads them over to the table she was at and they sit down together.

”I’m alright! It’s been one spell of a day, though.” She takes off her black leather satchel and slings it over the back of the chair. Her attire was, of course, as dark and grungy as ever- a typical Raven Queen look. “I’m gonna grab a drink- watch my bag?”

Apple nodded with a smile, taking another sip of her own latte. It wasn’t long before Raven was back at the table, sitting across from her with a hot chai.

”So, how’s day one been for you? I saw your segment on Just Right earlier… though, it felt like it should've aired on the “Too Hot” channel.” Raven teased.

Apple groaned, laughing a little at the end. While not a total fairy fail, her interview with Blondie had been noticeably… uncomfortable. “Oh, Raven! Don’t make me relive it. I didn’t know you could say “Daring Charming” so many times!”

Raven cackled- that wasn’t an exaggeration. “Right?? He wasn’t even your boyfriend in the first place! Like, I get it- everyone thought you two were gonna be the it-couple of Ever After, but Blondie is royally overstepping.” The first sip of her chai left her unsatisfied with the temperature. Raven popped the lid off and cast a layer of vibrant purple flames over the top of the tea, warming it to the steaming point at which she liked it.

Apple held her latte out with a pleading smile, to which Raven reheated it with the same enchantment. “Thank you. And it’s not that Blondie isn’t always like this, it’s just… this year is different.” The magenta flames slowly dissipated, and Apple stared down at her drink as little swirls of steam rose above the sugary liquid. A telling silence hung heavy in the air.

The Lovers Legacy Ball was on everyone’s mind, and after Apple’s interview, the whole MirrorNet now knew that their future queen had yet to decide her future partner. Such suspense would of course make the public all the more interested in her answer, which only amplified the pressure on Apple. However, one had to stop and ask, was this really even her choice? This wasn’t just about dating, it was about staying true to the story. The fates of the fairytale world had already decided who was meant for who. As far as Apple was concerned, she was playing a game in which there was one right answer and a million wrong, and she couldn’t tell them apart. The two girls sat quietly for a few moments, sipping their drinks as they processed these circumstances.

The sweetened spiced drink was delightfully hot as it passed down Raven’s throat. Countless more of these would be dranken throughout the spellmester, during rushed lunch periods, late study sessions, final outings with friends before graduation. She set her cup down, savoring the flavors as she stared out the window. “So, do you have anybody in mind yet?”

Flutters arose within Apple’s chest. One very specific answer instantly came to mind. Whether or not she could move that answer from her mind to her mouth was another question entirely. “Well, the Charming family lineage is quite large! It is entirely possible that it’s somebody I have yet to meet.” She didn’t sound confident in the slightest. To save herself from saying anymore, she took a nervous sip of her latte. It was too hot and instantly burned her.

Raven gave a sympathetic simple as she watched Apple lie and then get instant consequences. “Come on, you must have at least a couple options.”

Taking quick breaths to cool her tongue, Apple looked up at Raven with a pout. “Of course I do! It’s just… difficult to talk about.” A notable blush appeared on her cheeks as she directed her gaze down.

This princess was too easy to read. Raven raised a brow, now thoroughly amused. “What’s this? Is the future queen of Ever After getting… flustered??”

Her teasing nearly broke Apple, turning the light blush into a deep rouge. “Well can you blame me! Look at me, Raven- I’m 18 and I’ve never so much as been on a date. I’ve basically been in an arranged engagement my whole life and suddenly it’s broken off. Now I have to choose who I’m spending the rest of my life with and I’m just supposed to know?? Just hex me already!” She buried her red face in her hands, resting her elbows on the tabletop.

Taken aback, Raven watched in surprise as her friend had a mini meltdown in front of her. She honestly was not expecting Apple to blow the lid off her teapot with one comment. She must be under more stress than she had let on. Raven leaned forward and offered a comforting pat on the shoulder. “Hey, hey, calm down. Take a deep breath, girl. You’ve still got all year to figure this out. And, well maybe there’s no use in suggesting it, but you could always just not-”

Apple cut her off, head still in her hands. “No, Raven, I can’t just not participate in the Lovers Legacy Ball. Breaking tradition like that… I love you, but that’s your thing.” Her head rose to meet Raven with weary eyes. Releasing a tired sigh, she folded her hands to rest her chin on her fingers. “You’ve been on dates before, haven’t you? Maybe you could give me advice.”

Retracting her arm, Raven chuckled and leaned back in her chair. “Yeah, like, two in total. All of which were with Dexter.” Dexter Charming and Raven had been on a few dates, but that didn’t make her the expert on dating. “I’m not really the person to be asking about this... Why not consult Cupid? That’s like, her whole thing.”

“Everyone and their fairy godmother wants Cupid to fix their love perils.” Apple sat up finally, fixing her hair as she spoke. “I don’t want to add more to her plate, she’s already got enough to worry about.” She took another sip of her latte, this time blowing on the surface before drinking. As the future goddess of love, C.A. Cupid had been working her wings off to get as much practice with matchmaking in as she could before graduation.

“Apple, you’re not a stranger, you two have been friends since Legacy Year,” Raven said with a confused frown. “I’m sure she doesn’t mind having a chat with you about this whole ordeal, it would probably only take a few minutes.”

”Cupid is a hard working business woman, Raven. Expecting special treatment just because we’re close would be an abuse of our friendship.” She set her cup down and crossed her arms over her chest. “To even suggest that is so unfairest!”

Raven gave another unamused stare as she listened to Apple rant. “…You’re avoiding talking to her, aren’t you?”

”Wh- No! I would never- I-… Yeah…” Defeatedly, Apple uncrossed her arms and dropped her shoulders. She let out an exasperated sigh. “Honestly, I don’t want to be told what I don’t want to hear. And there are far too many things I don’t want to hear.”

“You don’t think you would feel a little better after talking to her?” she said after setting her chai down again. “I can’t think of anything she could say that would be that bad.”

Apple thought about it for a moment. “What if she tells me that… one of my options is already taken?”

”Then you’ll just be down an option. What’s so bad about-…” Raven paused mid sentence, realization striking as she watched a rosy color slowly return to Apple’s face. “...You only have one option, don’t you?”

Disappointedly, Apple nodded.

Raven laughed. “Well, one is better than none. Can I know?” She leaned in close, eager to hear.

“No! Not until I at least know I have a chance…”

She rolled her eyes and sat back in her chair again. ”Then talk to Cupid! If your crush is taken, she’ll be the one to know.”

“You’re right, it’s just…” Apple couldn’t find her words. She wasn’t used to lacking confidence like this, the subject of love and crushes was such unusual territory for her. Out of excuses, she rested her head on her hand again with a sigh.

As Raven watched her friend sulk, the bell to Hocus Latte rang with the entry of another customer. While Raven was seated facing away from the door, Apple’s expression of horror served as a mirror to who had just walked in. She turned around to see a delightfully pink girl with a pair of feathery wings heading up to the counter. A twisted smile grew on Raven’s face as she stood up. “Speak of the cherub and she doth appear… I’ll be right back!”

”Raven!! No!” Apple whisper-shouted in embarrassment as she watched Raven walk away. Truly, this is the most evil she has ever been. And to think Apple had been encouraging such behavior for years now…

Moments later, Raven returned to the table, pulling up a third chair before taking her seat. “Look who I found! You don’t mind if Cupid sits with us, right?” she asked with an innocent smile.

Apple fixed her face and stood up to greet her friend. “Of course not. Cupid, it’s been so long!”

”Hey, Apple! How are you?? Love the new look,” Cupid said as she wrapped her friend in a tight hug. The two sat back down after their embrace, and Cupid set down her coffee. The foam within the dark liquid was intricately poured into the shape of a heart with an arrow through it- a charming personal touch from the barista.

“Why, thank you! And you look as angelic as ever,” Apple complimented back. It was true, Cupid’s dress was nothing short of heavenly. It was her signature baby pink, accented by sewn on pearls and shimmering golden lace. The inventress of coquette herself, Cupid’s first day look was a page-ripper.

Giggling politely, she twirled a loose curl around her elegantly manicured finger. “Thanks, Apple! Both of you look spelltacular as well. It’s nice to finally be back, isn’t it?”

”Totally. Although, this first day has definitely been kinder to some than others…” Raven looked over to Apple as she took another sip of her tea, hoping she wouldn’t have to coax it out of her.

Apple said nothing. She just smiled and nodded, giving Raven a look that meant she was undoubtedly going to have to carry the conversation.

Cupid, not at all picking up on the silent exchange going on, looked towards Apple with a pitying expression. “I saw your segment on Just Right this morning…”

”O- Oh! Did you now?” This wasn’t all that shocking- who hadn’t seen it by now? Apple chose to feign ignorance in hopes of avoiding this subject further.

”Yeah. Not just yours, of course. I actually watched the whole broadcast a couple times. I wanted to see who needs the most help with their love-life right now, it’ll be good practice for me!” Cupid smiled and took a sip of her coffee.

Raven chuckled somewhat nervously. “Good to know that we are your test subjects as always.”

Cupid laughed, too. “I also watched to support my roomie! And, well, my dad is really serious about getting me in the field as soon as I graduate. I’ll be matchmaking with all of the other big-shot love gods! When you think about it, Ever After is the perfect realm to warm up my wings on, much better than the others I’ve lived in. Nearly every fairy tale involves love in one way or another.”

Raven nodded. ”That’s so true. You know, Apple could really use some-“

”Hey, Raven! I don’t recall you doing an interview with Blondie this morning.” Apple interrupted with a swift subject chance, innocently batting her eyelashes.

Caught off guard and totally called out, Raven glared at Apple. “…Th- That’s cause I didn’t want to do one. I don’t like being on camera. And as I was saying-“

Cupid was the one to butt in this time, hexcitedly turning to Raven. “You’ll still be going to the Lovers Legacy Ball, right? The Evil Queen’s story begins with marrying a king!”

”I- Well, yes, that’s true…” Raven glared at Apple one more time, sour that she won this silent fight. She then gave in and eased up, sitting back in her chair. “And yeah, I’ll be going. I already know who with.”

This got a reaction from both of the girls. Apple sat forward with an enthusiastic, “Who??” She had been completely unaware of this. Both her and Cupid stared at Raven with eager anticipation.

Now, it was her turn to blush a little. She kept her cool though, not wanting to make a big deal about her own love-life. “…Dex.” As the girls freaked out, Raven simply took a calm sip of her tea. Though, deep down, she was happy at their ardor for her.

“Raven!! I can’t believe you kept this a secret!” Apple nearly shouted in a mix of disbelief and glee. She knew Raven and Dexter had been a thing for some time now, but she hadn’t realized how serious they were.

Cupid reached out and held Raven’s hand, looking like a proud mother on the verge of tears. “I’d just like to say… that I take credit for this.” Everyone laughed, including Raven as she nodded in full agreement.

“Please do! We wouldn’t be as close as we are now without you, Cupid.” She gave her hand a little squeeze. Before letting go, she turned back to Apple. “Dex and I decided to commit to this over the summer. And, as far as I know, you two are the first to find out.”

Hearing this made Apple smile even harder. She was flattered to be among the first told, even if the news was somewhat forced out of Raven. “When you two get married, I call dibs on doing the floral arrangements!”

Laughing again, Raven shook her head and sat back in her chair. “You’re getting way ahead of yourself, but sure. Now, back to what I was trying to say before I got interrupted!”

Apple’s smile tightened with anxiety. Her only way to avoid this now would be to run out of the cafe. “Let’s keep talking about you and Dexter! Would you keep your last name, or take his? Or maybe hyphenate! Queen-Charming has a nice ring to it.”

”Cupid,” Raven turned to look at her, ignoring the attempt to derail the conversation. “Apple could really use some of your matchmaking skills.”

”You know, I sorta figured…” Cupid turned to Apple with a sorry smile. “Blondie wasn’t all that discreet about it during your interview. I’d be happy to be of service! Especially for the fairest in the land. Tell me,” she said as she scooched in her chair closer. “What’s your heart desiring, dear friend?”

Apple’s face was the shade of a red delicious. She sighed defeatedly, shooting a look at Raven that said ‘you win’ before facing Cupid. “This whole ordeal is a stress. My future husband used to be already decided for me, but now that…” She hesitated, looking around at the other tables before continuing. “…Now that Daring and Rosabella are together, I have to make this decision for myself.”

Cupid nodded, holding her hands folded in front of her as she listened. “Don’t worry, Apple. You’re not the only one in this position. I’ve already spoken to dozens of other fairytale creatures who haven’t a clue of their future lover- many of your classmates, even.”

”Really?” This made Apple feel a little better. Realistically, of course she wasn’t the only one stuck like this. Cupid’s confirmation was just all the more reassuring.

“Really. It’s not that uncommon. See, for those with two specifically named characters in their stories, it’s quite easy to track down the both of them. But for stories with a vague “Prince Charming” archetype as the love interest, like yours, it can be a bit tricky!” Having extensively studied the way in which fairytale love works, Cupid was quite adept to explain such concepts.

As Apple listened, the complexity of these mechanics made her feel a little less better.

Raven chimed in. “It’d be funny if there was a little subsection in the Story Book of Legends that tells you who to date.” Says the girl who refuses to abide by said book.

Thinking about it, Cupid chuckles. “I suppose such a feature would be convenient. But then I’d be out of a job! There’s a reason matchmakers like us exist, and it’s not just for non-fairytale beings.” She turns Apple again. “I know you like to follow the specifics of your story to a spindle point, but love is a funny thing. It may not be an exact science, but the advice of following your true heart’s desires has never fallen short! If you know in your heart that someone is the one for you, then I’d say they are probably also right for your story.”

“Probably?...” Now it was the uncertainty that made Apple feel even worse. How was she to know who “the one” was, anyways?

“Hey! Like I said, it’s not science.”

Apple sighed, feeling more defeated than when the conversation began. “Thanks, Cupid. I appreciate the advice. But it still feels like all of my friends, even those with stories like mine, seem to know who their destined love interest is.”

Again, Raven piped up to stir the conversation. “Cupid, you mentioned that you knew some of our classmates without dates? Maybe Apple will feel better if she knows who they are.”

Sheepishly, Cupid chuckled a bit. “Maybe I shouldn’t have said that. I fear can’t share.”

“What?” Apple said with a pout. “Why not?”

“Doctor-patient confidentiality reasons.“ The group went silent with confusion after Cupid said that. She had a look at on her face like there was a punchline somewhere.

Staring at Cupid unamused, Raven asked, “...Exactly how the spell does that apply here?”

”Because I’m a love doctor, duh!” Cupid smiled as if she had been waiting to use that line for ages. Nobody laughed. “…Fine, I guess I’m not legally confined to silence. But if I went around airing out everyone’s love drama… Well, that just wouldn’t be fairy professional of me!”

Though she had a point, Apple was desperate to feel less alone in her worries. “Please, Cupid? I think Raven’s right. Even knowing one person would make me feel better.”

Shoulders tensely squared and hands fidgeting with anxiousness, Cupid took a moment to contemplate what to do. Eventually, she sighed and looked at Apple. “Fine. You can ask about one- just one of your friends! And I’ll tell you what I know. Only because you’re the fairest in the land,” she said with a sweet, teasing tone.

Apple smiled, one name coming to mind instantly. She pretended to have to think about it, though, tapping a finger to her chin and looking up as if she had no idea who to ask about. “Oh gosh, this is a hard choice… I’ll just pick randomly! How about… Darling?”

Raven looked up from her chai, also curious as to the answer.

Cupid thought for a moment. “I don’t think Darling is committed to anyone yet…”

Anxiety began to trickle away from Apple’s chest. There had been a tight knot around her heart ever since this conversation started. No, ever since the day began. No, no- not even that. This knot had been constricting her internally for pages. Hearing that Darling had yet to be taken was the greatest relief. However, Cupid hadn’t finished speaking.

”…but I believe Chase Redford is going to ask her out.”

“Wh- What?” The knot tightened again. When Apple had said there were things she didn’t want to be told, this was one of them.

”Yeah, the son of the Red Queen. Goes to Wonderland High.” Cupid said, assuming Apple didn’t know who she was referring to.

She held up a hand to stop Cupid from explaining further. ”I’ve met Chase before. How do you know he’s going to ask out Darling?”

”Oh! Because he told me he was,” Cupid replied, surprisingly oblivious in this moment for a love goddess. She took another sip of her coffee before continuing, too preoccupied to notice the look of heartbreak on Apple’s face. “He came to me for advice a few pages ago. Apparently, he and Darling used to spar together when she would visit Wonderland as the White Knight. He’s had a thing for her ever since. I told him to go for it! Though, I don’t know when or if he will.”

”…Oh,” was all Apple could muster up as a response. She seemed lost in thought. Raven noticed this somewhat frozen state of hers, but didn’t say anything.

”Hey wait! I said I’d tell you about one student, not two! Oh toadstools…” Cupid shook her head and chuckled at how carried away she had gotten. “Anyways, the good news is that Darling is still on the same page as you. At least as far as I know. Just because someone has a crush on her doesn’t mean she’s spoken for. Think of how many princes would slay dragons just to go on a date with you, Apple. Yet here you are,” Cupid reached out over the table, placing her hands on top of Apple’s with a reassuring smile. “My advice to you is to stop comparing yourself to your friends. You are far from the only girl in Ever After still looking for love.”

The gentle touch of Cupid’s hands pulled Apple out of her head, directing her focus back into the moment. Despite the less than ideal news she had just received, her friend’s kind words did lift her mood. She gave a small smile. “Thank you, Cupid.”

“Of course! And don’t lose a slipper over the ball, I honestly have no doubt that you’ll find someone in time. Besides, if it really comes down to it…” Cupid leans back and reaches into her heart purse, revealing a bundle of her signature love arrows that she always carries around. “…You know where to find me,” she says with a playful wink. The girls all share a laugh, yet this doesn’t make Apple feel any better. She pretends it does, though.

Their coffee date eventually comes to a close, and the three scatter off on their separate ways. With her one and only romantic prospect having been nearly crushed, Apple headed back to her dorm with a cloudy heart. If someone else wanted Darling, she would not be the one to get in their way- that kind of behavior was just not her role. Snow White didn’t pursue, she delicately laid down as her Prince Charming came to her. Little details like these, Apple had to remain faithful to them. Her chauffeur carried her back to campus, where she would spend the next hour getting ready for the rest of the exhaustive first-day events to come.

Chapter 4

The week that followed was just as tiring as this day had been, packed full of queries and intrusions about love. Love, romance, partners, marriage, destinies, dances, appearances, reputations, expectations- the endless bombardment of her future refused to cease! Every friend, acquaintance, classmate, faculty member, and nosy fanboy took the time to insert themself into her daily routine for an impromptu interview, just dying to know every last detail of their future queen’s love life.

During study ball period in the middle of the week, our princess found her peaceful studying disturbed by a tap on the shoulder. Apple turned around with a polite smile. “What’s up?”

Behind her was Nina Thumbell, who sat there with an eager expression. A hexcited giggle escaped her as she twirled a lock of her platinum hair around her finger. “So… Who are you taking??”

Apple’s smile faltered. Of course she knew what Nina was referring to, but she had faced enough of these questions already this week. Not every interaction needed to be treated like a Blondie Lockes interview. “Who am I taking? Where?” she replied, feigning ignorance.

Nina rolled her eyes playfully. “Oh okay! Being secretive about it, are we?” She leaned forward on her desk, whispering to her. “You know!! The Lovers Legacy Ball.”

Unfortunately for Apple, Nina was not nearly quiet enough. A splintery face popped up from her books, looking with hexcitement at the mention of the ball. “Ooh, are we talking about the Lovers Legacy Ball??” Cedar Wood asked way too loud.

Apple quickly shushed the both of them, attempting to stop the series of events which she knew were about to ensue. “Quiet! Professor Rumpelstiltskin will have us spinning straw into gold all week if he hears you.”

Nina pointed behind Apple towards the front of the class, where their teacher was sleeping on the desk. “Look- See? We’re fine. Now spill the beanstalk, girl!”

“Wait, what is Apple spilling?” Cedar curiously asked.

“Who she’s taking to the ball!” Nina hexcitedly whispered, replying too quick for Apple to tell her to be quiet again.

Cedar gasped, holding her book up to her lips. “Apple knows who she’s bringing to the Lovers Legacy Ball??” Heads all around them began to perk up, curiously and not at all subtly listening in on the conversation.

“What- No?? I never said that!” Apple felt her cheeks begin to flush with embarrassment.

“Oh? What’s this about Apple’s date?” A set of glowing white teeth grinning ear-to-ear suddenly manifested in between Nina and Cedar’s desks, followed by the rest of Kitty Cheshire as she crouched in between them.

“We were just asking Apple who she was bringing to the Lovers Legacy Ball,” Nina said, looking down at Kitty.

With a mischievous purr, Kitty looked up to Apple. “Well, I am one curious cat! Do tell.” The others both turned their attention to Apple, ready to hear her answer.

Her face now the color of a gala apple, she took in a deep breath to stop herself from exploding. “My date to the ball is…” The three leaned in close. “…a secret!” Then, the entire class let out a groan of annoyance. “So you’ll just have to wait and see. Now if you’ll hexcuse me, I have to get back to my thronework.”

“But Apple!-“ Nina tried to interject, until a loud snore came from the front of the classroom, followed by a coughing fit as Professor Rumpelstiltskin sat up.

The whole class quickly silenced themselves and turned back to their books. Kitty teleported back into her seat across the room with a poof, shrinking in her chair in case the teacher caught a glimpse of her sparkles trail.

As Professor Rumpelstiltskin came to from his nap, he looked around the room to catch anyone slacking off. “Hrmm…” Grumbling, he got down from his chair and began making rounds through the rows of desks.

Resuming her thronework, Apple was internally cursing herself for the answer that she gave. ‘A secret?? Yeah, to everyone including me! Thank my fairy godmother that I don’t have Cedar’s story right now…’ Rumpelstiltskin passed by her desk, heading to the back of the classroom. Not long after, she heard a ‘psst’ next to her. She tried to ignore it, not particularly wanting to spend her weekends at the spinning wheel in the barn, but then it came again even louder. Apple huffed and looked over at who was trying to get her attention and whispered. “Can I help you??”

The littlest brother of the three billy goats Gruff was turned to Apple with a smug look on his face. “So, I hear you don’t have a date yet?”

“No, I said my date was a secret.” Apple glanced over her shoulder, worried about the teacher coming back around.

”Okay, well if your ‘secret date’ happens to bail… You know where to find me,” he said, shooting her a flirtatious wink.

Apple’s head whipped back around, making no acknowledgement of anything the littlest billy goat had said as she kept her eyes glued to her desk.

The littlest billy goat frowned. “Cold shoulder treatment, huh? Alright, I see how it is-“

”NO TALKING DURING CLASS!” Professor Rumpelstiltskin shouted right in his ear as he seemingly appeared from nowhere. “SATURDAY DETENTION!! You’ll be spinning straw into gold til sundown…” He cackled maniacally as he walked off back to his desk, leaving the littlest billy goat Gruff with half a heart attack and ruined weekend plans.

Finally, everyone stopped pestering Apple about her date. Though it didn’t quite matter, as she was too distraught over the entire debacle to focus on her thronework anymore. The rest of the study ball was spent sulking silently at her desk, and mentally preparing for another round of interrogations next period. This routinely went on as the week progressed, turning into borderline harassment at points. By the end of week one, Apple White was positively hexhausted.

Chapter 5

Having successfully avoided her free time being filled with her professors’ 18th century punishments, she could finally take a well-needed breather from the chaos that had been the week. That Saturday’s evening, Apple found herself in her dorm, working at her desk in peaceful solitude. The air was warm, and the sounds of late summer flooded the space as gentle breezes came in through the open window next to her. She had just about finished all of her thronework when an unhexpected knocking came at the door.

Groaning quietly, Apple pushed her chair out and stood. “One moment!” she shouted as she hopped over to the stairs. Her private suite, the south tower of the school, had 3 floors that were connected by a spiral staircase running straight down the middle. While most of the dorms in Ever After High’s castle were quite sizable compared to other boarding schools, senior suites such as this one were envied by even the faculty. Traditionally, these dorms were reserved for only the most notable royals.

Apple descended the stairs, stopping by her mirror before the door to ensure she was presentable. While she wouldn’t normally prefer to be seen in her loungewear, she assumed that one of her friends was visiting- and she wasn’t wrong! However, as the delicate scent of bluebells hit her when she opened the door, Apple wished she had been in a more presentable dress at that moment. “D-Darling??”

”Hey, Apple! Sorry, are you busy?” Darling Charming smiled down at Apple as she stood in the doorway, of course looking as elegant as ever.

More flustered than she should have been, it took Apple a moment to recollect herself before responding. “No! Not at all. I was just finishing my studying. How can I help you?” She smiled back, pleasantly surprised by this surprise visit.

“I just wanted to stop by, see how you’re doing. I’ve heard it’s been a kinda crazy week for you.” Darling leaned against the dorm frame, as if fully ready to let Apple unload all of her stresses onto her right here, right now.

Though flattered by this unprompted wellness check of sorts, Apple was embarrassed to hear that whatever gossip was floating around school had made its way to her crush. “Oh, how sweet of you, Darling! Would you…” Shyly, Apple stepped aside and opened the door fully for her. “Would you like to come in?”

Darling nodded, standing up straight and stepping in. Entering the base of the tower, which was furnished with velvet sofas and a large mirror screen for cozy lounging, she nearly gasped at the grandness of it all. “Sweet Grimm!! This is bigger than I imagined.” She wandered around the staircase, peeking her head over the railing and looking up to see how tall it went.

Apple giggled as she shut the door. “Follow me! You’ll love the view from the balcony.” She walked past Darling and led her up the stairs. They passed the second floor, where Apple’s study desk and bookshelves were kept, and made their way to the top of the tower. Here, on the final floor, the ceiling extended high up, leaving enough space for a dazzling chandelier in the middle. Flowering vines draped across the golden arms of the light fixture fell gently down in all directions, covering the walls and hanging in picturesque floral swoops. The space underneath all of these intricate details contained Apple’s bed, wardrobe, vanity, and other quaint storage spaces for her most essential possessions.

Apple led Darling over to the double glass doors positioned across from her bed, which were letting in the glow of the sunset on the horizon, lighting up the whole space. Together, they stepped out onto a small balcony of white marble which overlooked the courtyards of the school and beyond. Apple stepped aside to let Darling take in the full view. “Pretty enchanting, right?”

Darling walked over to the edge of the balcony in awe, her curls gently blowing back and forth with the warm breeze passing by. “Absolutely. You can see Book End from up here!” She leaned her elbows against the railing as she took in the view.

Tangerine and fuchsia rays of light hit against the tower as the sun descended beneath the skyline of Ever After. Apple moved next to Darling, leaning on the railing as well. The two princesses watched together in content silence. When the last glint of light finally slipped below the horizon, Apple blissfully sighed and turned to face Darling. “I should thank you for stopping by and pulling me away from my thronework. I would have missed that gorgeous sunset otherwise.”

Darling turned to face Apple with a smile. “Any time.” She held her gaze on Apple for a moment longer. The way she was looking at her made Apple self conscious- though not in the way she normally does when it comes to stares from others. This was different. She felt… admired.

Beginning to grow flustered once again, as she always seems to get when around Darling, Apple turned to look at the view as she spoke. “So… Was there anything you wanted to talk about? I think you mentioned you had, um, heard stuff about me?”

“Ah, nothing bad. All just fables, I’m sure.” Darling chuckled, also going back to looking off the balcony as they chatted. “But if any one person is being talked about, good or bad, it’s gotta be hexhausting.”

Apple was silent for a moment. “Yeah. Definitely not the start to this year that I was expecting.” She rested her head in her hand, a slight frown settling on her lips.

”Well, what’s it all about?” Of course, she knew exactly what all of the gossip was about, though she thought it best to not be so direct.

Apple was hesitant at first to talk about her current no-date-dilemma, especially considering the one she was talking to was unknowingly at the center of it all. But after a week of nothing but hesitation and tip-toeing around careful responses to overbearing questions, she was tired. “Everyone wants me to share who I’m bringing to the Lovers Legacy Ball this year. It’s not that bad, but being asked the same question a million times is getting quite old.”

Darling thought for a moment, as if she was debating on whether or not to say this. “So… why don’t you just answer them?”

”Because I don’t know who I’m bringing,” Apple said with shockingly little hesitation. So much so that it even startled herself. She immediately attempted to backtrack. “W- Well, that’s not to say that I don’t have any ideas! I’m just… not sure.”

Surprised, Darling turned to look at Apple. Her expression was turned in a confused yet humored manner. “Oh yeah? Well now I’m curious. Who are your ideas?” she asked with a teasing tone.

Internally, a grimoire’s worth of curses were running through Apple’s mind. “Oh! Ummm.. You know, some princes, some lords, a few knights…” She kept staring off the balcony, hoping to hide the uncertainty that was undoubtedly plastered over her expression.

“Hmm…” Darling also stayed faced forward, processing her words. After an uncomfy moment of silence, she decided on a bold next question. “But no princesses?”

“Wh-” Apple’s head whipped around now, looking at Darling, shocked.

Darling eyed her, awaiting a response.

Apple quickly looked away. “I mean… Snow White marries a prince, so…”

Darling frowned, letting this response also hang in the air for a short moment before speaking. “Snow White also wasn’t blonde.”

“Well-” Apple paused. This was a fact which she had of course considered, but she honestly could not justify her picking and choosing of which details mattered. She didn’t know what to say.

After another period of silence passed, this one a bit more painful than the last, Darling sighed quietly and spoke up. “I’m sorry, Apple. I don’t mean to be so abrasive. It’s just… I hate to see others so caught up in the details of their stories. It reminds me of the fact that my princesshood is contradictory to my destiny.”

Shocked at this sudden personal confession, Apple turned to look at Darling. “What?” she asked, genuinely confused. “Darling, how does being a princess go against your story?”

“I am the daughter of Prince Charming. There is no such thing as a “princess charming.” At least, not yet there’s not. As far as I know, I’m the first of my kind.” Darling speaks in a calm manner, though there is evident pain behind her words. “The way the story always goes explicitly involves a prince and a lady of some manner. Sure, I could play the role of the damsel in distress to try and fit the traditions, but the truth of the matter is that I am not a damsel. My destiny is to save the damsel! But…” She pauses, frustratedly sighing once more. “Perhaps these details really may just get in the way of my story.”

“No!” Apple suddenly bursts out, interjecting herself with such a passion that it takes Darling by surprise. “You’re the most valiant and courageous girl I know, Darling! To hear that you have any hesitation over your destiny sounds as mad as The Hatter, you’ve already more than proven yourself of being the next Prince Charming.”

Darling looked down at Apple, stunned by her fervor. To see her friend so passionate for her, she couldn’t help but smile. “Thank you, Apple. That means a lot coming from you.”

Here comes the blush. “It’s just the truth. Whatever fairytale you join, whoever you end up saving, you’ll be the best princess charming there is.”

Again, Apple’s words left Darling delightfully flattered. However, her smile seemed to turn sad somewhere in the middle of her speech. “I do hope you’re right… Though, despite what I want, I fear I may not have any damsel to save.” She begins fidgeting with a strand of her curls, twirling it around her finger. “I also have no date to the ball.”

Apple’s eyebrows raised slightly in surprise, followed by a hopeful beating in her heart. “O- Oh? Really?” Right as always, C.A. Cupid. “I didn’t expect that.”

“I’m being totally nonfiction. Everyone expects me to be a delicate maiden when it comes to dating. Either that, or they’re to focused on the details of their stories to consider me…” She winds her hair as tight as she can around her finger before letting it jump from her grasp, unraveling in a burst of furious twirls as it cascades back down to her shoulder.

“Oh.” Apple watches Darling play with her hair, remembering how her own locks used to be before she cut them. As much as she liked her new hair, she dearly missed her enchantingly huge curls. “Darling…”

“It’s alright though- I get it. I’m quite an unconventional character, being a girl savior type and all.” She turned all the way around, leaning her back against the balcony’s banister now and resting her elbows there. Her eyes wandered around Apple’s room as she spoke, taking in the elaborate decor. “It makes sense that someone like me would struggle in this department. But, honestly, if you can’t find a date to the ball- we might all be hexed.”

Apple wanted to speak up. Now more than ever, she wanted to tell Darling how she really felt. Unfortunately, no matter which way she worded it in her mind, there was nothing that sounded just right. How does one who has been trained her whole life to do nothing more than lie dead and receive a kiss suddenly work up the nerve to confess her love? “I’m sorry, Darling.”

Looking back down at Apple, she raised a confused brow. “Sorry? What for? I was just kidding about the hexed comment-”

She chuckled and shook her head. “I’m not talking about that.” Apple joined Darling now in turning around and leaning against the banister as she spoke. “When I hear people say that these are our own stories, and we get to shape them how we want, it scares me. I want my story to go exactly like my mother’s, yet it seems like my pages are prematurely wrinkled sometimes. I mean, my Evil Queen is one of the least evil girls I know, and I’m obviously out of a Prince Charming at the moment. So I’ve been trying my best to follow every little detail, as if doing so will help get my story back on track.” Apple looks up to Darling now. “I hadn’t realized your destiny was being hindered because of this.”

As Darling listens, she can’t help but crack a smile at the end. “...You say that as if I’m a part of your story.”

Apple smiles as well, of course blushing more as she realizes this, too. “I mean this mindset in general. They’re right when they say our stories are ours. You’re not a man like Prince Charming, but that doesn’t mean you don’t have his story. In a way, you’re right for feeling like you go against your destiny- because you get to reshape it to fit you. But that fact is being denied by… well, by people like me. And it’s hurting you in the process.” She looks down now, feeling a bit ashamed admitting this.

Unhexpectedly, Apple feels a gentle pair of fingers touch the bottom of her chin, moving her head upwards to face her bluebell goddess. Darling is looking at her with an earnest gaze, having been struck by her words. “Apple, you are not the one hurting me. Nobody is hurting me, I didn’t mean to give you that impression.” Looking down at the petite princess, whose cheeks were as pink as the sky was minutes ago, Darling lets go of her and sighs, embarrassedly. “Oh, Grimm.. I came here to try and cheer you up! Making you worry about me is the last thing I wanted.”

Almost instinctively, Apple’s hands shoot forward and wrap themselves around Darling’s. Any time she got even the tiniest of tastings of her touch, she couldn’t help but try and prolong it. “Oh, Darling! You have more than cheered me up with your visit. I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to sour the mood so much. Let’s not end the day with such melodramatics. The ball and our destinies can wait. How about we do something fun?”

Smiling at Apple’s infectious enthusiasm, Darling holds her hands back and nods. “I agree, a distraction is what we both need right now. What do you suggest we do?”

“Hmm…” Apple looks around as she thinks of ideas. “It is almost dinner time.”

“Oh! I heard the castleteria is serving Little Jack Horner’s pies for dessert tonight,” Darling suggests with an enticing tone and hexcited smile.

Apple eagerly nods, practically dragging Darling to the stairs as soon as she heard ‘pie’ escape her lips. “Spelltastic! What are we waiting for??”

Now, full of rambunctious giggles and hungry appetites, the two princesses headed to the castleteria hand-in-hand. Though Apple hadn’t gotten any closer to finding a date to the Lovers Legacy Ball, sometimes a romantic sunset and a friendly chat is all one needs to feel better about their worries. However, the chat had brewed up an entirely new feeling in Apple. She wanted Darling, and she didn’t know how to get her. Everything she had ever wanted before came instantly on a golden tray, hand delivered by one of her mother’s hundreds of dwarf workers. Not only that, nothing she had ever wanted went against the details of her story in any way. The thought of marrying a princess was frightening on a multitude of levels, it felt like she would betray her destiny. Yet this type of fear was why nobody ever considered Darling for their stories. With so much dissonance in her mind, Apple needed another talk with the one girl who was better than anyone at rebelling against destiny.

Chapter 6

Back in Apple’s tower again, Raven Queen has been invited over after classes for some afternoon tea. The two sat together on the first floor, sharing the loveseat by the window. The curtains were tied back, and the glass panes were pushed open to let the pleasant late summer air fill the room.

Placed on a little glass coffee table next to them was a tray of tea cups and sandwiches, yet neither girl seemed to touch the display. Raven sat criss-crossed on the couch, intently listening to Apple talk. “...So we ran off to grab dinner together, and it was like I didn’t even have to worry about the ball anymore. How it even possible to have all of your problems whisked away by just being in the presence of someone! Fairy godmother, she’s just too good to be true.”

An amused smile grew on Raven’s lips. She had never seen her friend so lovestruck before. “Wow, Apple. You really think Darling is the one?”

“How could she not be?” she spouted. “She’s a Charming, she’s strong, she’s gorgeous, she’s so dreamy, she fears nothing, she’s beautiful-”

“Do you think Darling’s pretty? I can’t tell,” Raven teased.

“AND!” Apple interjected, ignoring Raven’s teasing. “She can wake me from a slumber spell. Remember Legacy Year? Logically speaking, she meets all the requirements and more.”

Raven thought back. “Huh, you’re right..”

She nodded enthusiastically. “I know I’m right. She’s the one.”

“...Then why haven’t you asked her out?”

Apple pauses, a beat of anxiety passing through her before she speaks again. “Because… what if I’m actually wrong…”

Hexhaustedly, Raven rolls her eyes. “Apple, do you hear yourself?”

“I know,” she whines, holding her hands to her head in upset.

“For a future queen, you really are too afraid of rejection.” Raven uncrosses her legs and leans over to the side, grabbing one of the tea sandwiches from the table.

“It’s not the rejection that scares me,” Apple responds, then thinking about it briefly. “Well, that’s not to say rejection doesn’t scare me at all. But that’s not what I’m worried about!”

“Okay, then what’s really holding you back?” Raven asks as she takes a bite of the sandwich.

“What if Darling isn’t my princess charming, and us being together derails our stories! Mine, and whoever else’s she is meant to be apart of.”

Raven slowly finishes chewing her bite of sandwich, looking at Apple with a raised brow. “Do I need to remind you yet again that I do not intend on poisoning you?”

Apple giggles, rolling her eyes a little at what used to make her so upset. “Of course not.”

“Then I don’t get it,” Raven says. “You know that your story is basically already derailed. Why care about if Darling really is your princess charming or not?”

She shrugs. Apple does indeed recognize how it doesn’t entirely make sense. “Maybe I’m just in denial of that fact, but doing what’s in my control is comforting. If I can’t control you, I can still control things like my appearance, my actions, and hopefully who I end up with. I still want the same happily ever after as my mother. It’s what I have grown to expect.”

Raven nods. While this isn’t the first time the two of them had had a talk like this, and it most certainly would not be the last, she felt that they really gained a better understanding of each other each time. And as someone so adamant about others choosing their own destiny, Raven admired Apple’s commitment to her choice. “While I will say that you are most definitely in denial,” she says, obviously teasing her. “I think your story is going to go the same regardless of who you date.”

“How?” Apple tilts her head slightly in confusion. “I feel like in the case of princesses who need to be woken from a spell, there are very definite right and wrong options for us. Only so many people have that ability.”

“Which Darling does! As we’ve established. But anyways, if you do end up getting poisoned and Darling for some reason can’t wake you twice, then you’ll just stay poisoned until somebody else comes along who can.” Raven takes another bite of her sandwich, talking while she chews. “Either that or you die.”

“Raven! That’s horrible,” Apple cried, holding her chest in fear at the thought.

Raven cackled, finishing her bite again. “Yup. So you might as well get your gorgeous knight while you’re still breathing. Our stories will go how they go, and there is some stuff we just don’t have control over. Who knows, maybe one day I will spontaneously turn wicked and decide to play my part. For now, I’m just doing what feels right. You should, too.”

Though a bit frightened now, Apple understood what Raven was trying to say. “I suppose… But there’s still one other problem!”

“Which is?” Raven finished off her sandwich, ready to hear whatever Apple’s next hexcuse was.

“...What if she doesn’t like me…”

Another sassy eye roll from her grim friend. “She likes you.”

“What?? How could you possibly know that,” she exclaims, already feeling her face growing hot at such a possibility.

“You told me, and I quote, “When I told her about how I didn’t have a date to the ball, she asked me if I liked princesses.” And later you said, “She grabbed my chin to turn my head, and her touch was so delicate yet strong at the same time. I could have puked butterflies.” Does any of that sound even remotely like something a friend would do?” she asks in her most snarky tone.

Apple’s cheeks were scarlet with embarrassment and adorned with a shy smile. “Well… When you put it like that…”

Raven giggles seeing Apple so flustered. “Exactly. I’d be quite surprised if she wasn’t trying to drop hints that she likes you.”

“What should I do? I’ve never been so charmed before...” Anxious with the possibilities floating through her mind, Apple curls her legs up on the couch and hugs her knees to her chest.

“Ask Darling on a date!” As the words escaped Raven’s mouth, she swore she could see Apple’s soul begin to ascend from her body. “...Oh come on, it can’t be that scary.”

“It so can be! You know I’ve never dated before,” she hexclaimed as she hugged her knees tighter.

“Then how about you just ask her to hang out? As friends. Knowing Darling’s nature, she’ll probably end up asking you out anyways. Just do what you do best and be an enchanting princess with woodland creatures for friends, it’ll draw her right in.”

Apple laughed, and felt the stress begin to alleviate. “That sounds much more up my alley. Thank you, Raven.”

Nodding, Raven leaned over to the tray on the coffee table again, this time grabbing a sandwich for both her and Apple. “Anytime. By the way, how did Professor Nimble’s test go today? Maddie told me it was a real dethroner,” she said as she handed Apple a sandwich.

As Apple’s stresses died down, the two finally got to having a proper afternoon tea. They spent the time continuing to chat and indulge each other about the week’s activities. However, with Raven’s suggestions fluttering about in Apple’s mind, she couldn’t help but be filled with a sense of eager anticipation, hexcited for the next encounter she would have with her future princess charming.

Chapter 7

A fortnight later, and Apple had found herself thoroughly entrenched in her crush on Darling. Having followed through on Raven’s advice, she asked Darling one day if she would like to eat lunch together. From that point on, what was intended to be a one-off lunch date turned into them eating together quite regularly. The two of them had practically ditched the castleteria tables they had been loyal to since Freedom Year for each other.

On a pleasantly sunny afternoon, the girls had found a spot to sit at a lovely three tiered fountain with a wide pool at the base, located in one of the school’s many enchanting courtyards. They perched themselves atop the white marble ledge surrounding the fountain’s pool, setting their lunch trays on their laps. The sun twinkled on the reflection of the running water beneath them, reflecting onto the tall garden hedges surrounding the courtyard. Though the air had begun to cool as autumn crept its way across the kingdom, the flora planted around the school was still as lush and blooming as ever- and so was the relationship between these two girls.

Apple delicately smoothed the ruffles of her skirt as she sat down, being careful as to not get any part of her ensemble wet. “What a lovely spot! I can’t believe I’ve never thought to sit out here before,” she exclaimed as she admired the scenery.

Darling sat herself right next to her, letting her lungs swell with the fresh air as a gentle breeze jostled her curls over her shoulders. “Nice, isn’t it? This is where I usually come to cool down after sparring practice.” Lunch tray resting on her thighs, Darling picks up her fork and begins mixing her salad around. “Sometimes, on particularly breezy days, you can stand in the path of the fountain’s mist. It’s fairy refreshing.”

As Apple also began pecking at her food, her mind unintentionally wandered to the thought of post-sparring Darling. In uniform, flexed muscles, glistening in a thin layer of sweat from the workout… Getting a bit flustered at her own imagination, she tried to focus on the conversation. “I’m flattered you decided to share this spot with me!”

“Of course. The fairest of them all deserves to enjoy the finest nooks in the courtyard!” Darling jokes in an overly formal tone of voice. She smiles down at Apple with a wink before taking a bite of her salad.

Giggling, Apple’s eyes can’t help but be drawn to Darling’s arm as she raises her fork to her mouth. From a simple glance, Darling’s frame appears to be that of a typical thin woman. However, the moment her muscles are engaged, her physique transforms into that of a proper sword-wielding heroine. Subtly flexing from under a short sleeved blouse, Darling’s beautifully toned biceps are all Apple can look at.

Her arm eventually goes back to her side, but as Darling chews her bite of salad, she feels Apple’s intense gaze on her still. “...Are you going to eat, Apple?”

Finally, she snaps back to reality. “Ah! Yes, sorry. Just… spacing out,” she lies as she picks up her sandwich.

Darling chuckles, continuing to eat. Chirps of songbirds in the trees nearby fill the space, accompanying the trickling of the fountain water and rustling of leaves in the garden. Together, the two enjoy the serenity of the courtyard as they eat their lunch… At least, that’s what Darling thought they would be doing. She soon felt Apple’s eyes on her yet again. Nervously, she looked back over at the wide eyed princess. “...Wh- What’s up?”

“You’re really pretty, Darling.” Apple’s voice was quiet, but sincere.

A shade akin to cherry blossoms suddenly spreads across Darling’s cheeks. What an ironic thing, to catch a knight off her guard. “Oh! Why, thank you. You also are really pretty,” she responded, a clear hint of fluster in her words.

Apple gave an endearing little smile, taking another bite of her sandwich. Finally, she stopped ogling Darling and turned to appreciate the courtyard’s beauty.

Darling, on the other hand, was now the one staring at Apple. She wasn’t used to such compliments. How was she to just go back to eating? “What makes you say that? If I may ask.”

She swallows her bite and turns back to her. “Can’t a girl compliment a friend?”

“That… felt like more than just a friend compliment,” Darling says with a chuckle. They both get quiet now. Holding eye contact, waiting for one of them to speak up.

Internally, Apple feels her cauldron of nerves begin to bubble. She thought she could get away with one little flirtatious comment, Darling calling her out for it was the last thing she expected. The tension now created was too much for her to handle, she felt like she was about to get up and run away.

After their staring contest had gone on long enough, Darling opens her mouth to say something. Whether unfortunately or not, the words never get the chance to leave her, as a pair of rosy cousins suddenly enter the courtyard to interrupt their lunch.

“There you are! Apple, I’ve been looking all over for you,” Briar Beauty exclaims as she walks over to the fountain. She lifts up her sunglasses, setting them atop her head to get a better look at the two girls eating together. “Turn your MirrorPhone on, I’ve sent you, like, a bajillion hexts.”

Rosabella walks up next to her cousin, giving Darling a wave. “Enjoying the nice weather?”

“Hey, girls! We certainly are.” Darling says with a smile. “Care to join us?”

Apple, who has been scrambling to check her MirrorPhone, looks up sheepishly at the two of them. “Yes! Please, sit with us.” Though normally she would be sad to have her alone time with Darling interrupted, she is thankful to have that awkward moment from before written over.

Briar takes a seat next to Apple, and Rosabella next to Darling. Taking out her MirrorPhone, Briar pulls up a hexsite and shows it to Apple. “Fall is so here! The Beanstalk Bakery is adding the Pumpkin Carriage Latte to their menu next week.” Briar leans forward to look at the other girls, too. “We should totes all go together.”

“Ooh, that sounds hexcellent!” Darling exclaimed. She turned to look at the brunette beside her. “Rosabella, isn’t that one of your favorite drinks?”

Eagerly, Rosabella nodded. “Yes!! Personally, I like the way Hocus Latte makes it better than Beanstalk Bakery. But I’m still fairy hexcited!”

Darling giggled at her roommate’s enthusiasm over the autumnal drink. “I remember during Freedom Year, you would have a Pumpkin Carriage Latte in hand at all times.”

“Her addiction has not gotten much better- trust me,” Briar joked from the other end of the ledge.

“I can’t help it! They’re so sweet and delicious.” Rosabella clasped her hands together, smiling wide as she fantasized about her favorite drink.

Briar and Darling both laughed at Rosabella’s obsession, continuing to tease her. However, Apple mostly stayed silent. While the rest of the lunch went by fine, Rosabella felt the familiar unease she had been getting lately whenever she and Apple interacted. It was a subtle discomfort, one where she couldn’t decipher the reason behind it, but always felt as if she had done something wrong.

Chapter 8

The lunch dates like these continued, and so did Apple’s attempt at getting closer to Darling. At any given opportunity, she would attempt to slip in a flirtatious compliment or gesture, and Darling would never be subtle about pointing it out. They became accustomed to this way of flirting, and it was clearer than Cinderella’s slipper how they both felt about each other. Apple was certain Darling wanted her back, but she still couldn’t work up the nerve to ask her out.

During her lunch period one day, Apple headed out to the courtyard to find Darling. Ready to enjoy another meal with her, lunch tray in hands, Apple suddenly stopped as her eyes locked onto somebody sitting by Darling at their fountain spot.

It was a boy, but not one Apple instantly recognized. He had jet black hair, teeming with vibrant streaks of red. Had he been in his typical uniform, that being a bright red suit of knight armor, perhaps she would have remembered who this was. It was not until she watched him reach for Darling’s hair, brushing it out of her face in a loving caress of her cheek, that it finally clicked for Apple. But by the time it had, she was already turned and sprinting away, fleeing the scene before either of them could see the tears beginning to fall onto her food.

Chapter 9

Rosabella Beauty had just finished her lunch when a peculiar sight caught her eye. She was leaving the castleteria, and all of a sudden a tiny chipmunk scurried around her heels and down the hall. “Whoa! What the-“ She watched as it rounded a corner, followed by a pair of white doves flying in through the window and following where the chipmunk was heading. “Animals? Inside the school?” As an animal lover and protector, Rosabella had to know where these woodland friends were all going.

She followed the trail of creatures through the hallways, leading further into the desolate sections of Ever After High’s castle. Eventually, a soft sobbing began to echo in the corridor. Rosabella started to piece the clues together. There were only so many princesses at this school who attracted animals to them when they cried. The options ran through her head, but she didn’t need to ponder them for long, as when she entered a classroom filled with forest friends of all sizes, her eyes of course landed on Apple White.

The weeping girl had her head on the desk, arms wrapped around her face as her back rose and fell with her cries. Surrounding her were what seemed to be at least half of the Enchanted Forest’s inhabitants, comforting the distressed princess. A white rabbit sat in front of Apple on the desk, nuzzling her golden hair. By her right foot was a cuddly raccoon, and by her left, a flock of little ducklings. On the next desk over was a lunch tray full of food, which a team of squirrels and robins were pecking away at. Perched on her shoulders were the white doves Rosabella had watched fly in moments before, and playing in her hair were a trio of field mice. Foxes, bear cubs, wolf pups, badgers, sparrows, and other animals of all sizes were surrounding Apple.

Just when Rosabella thought the room couldn’t get any more full, she had to jump out of the way after being shoved by a doe as tall as her. “Sweet Grimm…” she muttered to herself. Apple still had yet to notice that a bipedal creature had entered the classroom, and for a brief moment Rosabella contemplated just leaving, pretend like she never saw this. But she couldn’t just leave Apple like this, it wouldn’t be right.

Rosabella stepped further into the classroom, cautiously walking around little animals. When she was close enough, she gently spoke up. “Uhm… Hey, Apple. Are you okay?”

Through sniffles and tears, Apple lifted her head to look at Rosabella. Despite it being no use, she made an attempt to wipe her eyes dry with her wrist. “O- Oh! Hi, Rosabella…” Just spelltastic. Of course she had to be discovered by Darling’s roommate.

Rosabella frowned, seeing how hard Apple had been crying. “What’s got you so unfairest?” Again, she carefully tiptoed her way around the woodland creatures and over to a desk next to Apple. She gently shooed away a pair of opossums on the seat and sat down.

“Uh… It- It’s nothing important…” Carefully sitting up to not send any of her furry or winged friends flying, Apple takes in a few deep breathes. She leaves her hands on the table, and the little rabbit finds its way in between them to get some pets.

“Nothing important?” Rosabella almost chuckles, looking around the chaos of the room. “Your furry friends would argue otherwise. Don’t be so modest, talk to me.”

Mindlessly petting the soft, white fur of the rabbit, Apple hesitates to say anything. “Well… I’m not exactly sure if I can talk about it with you…”

Silence falls over the conversation. It takes Rosabella a moment to form her words, but as she does, her frown of sympathy contorts into one of annoyance. “Fine. Be like that.”

Before Apple can process what she said, Rosabella is getting up from her seat and making her way to the door. “W- Wait! What?? Rosabella, what did I say!” Apple stands as well, sending animals scattering off of her. They create a path for her to walk over.

“You don’t wanna talk to me. It’s okay, I get it. You obviously don’t like me, I don’t know why I even offered to listen in the first place.” Whether intentionally or not, by clearing a walkway for Apple, the woodland creatures had moved right in front of Rosabella, blocking her way out.

“No, no! That’s not at all what I meant,” Apple cried as she tried to stop Rosabella from leaving, her voice breaking as more tears threatened to fall. “You- You think I don’t like you?”

Now even more annoyed at being unable to move through the sea of critters, Rosabella stopped and looked to Apple. “Yeah. I feel like you’re mad at me over Daring…”  Speaking her innermost thoughts into existence, Rosabella’s face began to flush as the words came out.

Apple’s heart sunk, hearing her worst fear when it came to Rosabella being affirmed. It took her a moment of stunned silence and hitched breathes to come up with an answer. “...I’m sorry, Rosabella. I never wanted you to feel that way. It’s just not true.”

“Then what’s so awkward between us all the time??” She puts her hands on her hips. They’ve already opened the door, might as well go all in. “If you’re really not mad at me, how come I always feel like I’m guilty of taking something from you whenever we talk?”

“It’s… It’s not about Daring…” Her lip quivers, remembering why she was crying in the first place. A little blue bird flies over and lands on Apple’s head, but she waves it away.

“Then what is it about! What did I do to you??”

“You did nothing!” Unable to control her emotions, the tears well up again in Apple’s eyes. Uncomfortable and vulnerable, she wraps her arms around herself and looks down. “It’s about… D- Darling!” She bursts, covering her face as she begins to weep again. The animals get worked up again at Apple’s distress.

Watching her explode into tears, Rosabella is completely taken aback. “Darling? Really?” Now more confused than upset, she quickly grows anxious just standing there while Apple cries. “Sit back down. Take some deep breathes…” Rosabella navigates around the animals once more, taking Apple’s shoulders and guiding her to a desk.

Doing as she says, Apple takes in a few shaky breathes. A little chickadee flies over with a silk handkerchief in its beak. Rosabella takes it from the bird and hands it to Apple. “Th- Thank you,” she says before blowing into it. The forest critters begin to reassemble around the two girls, resuming their cuddly comfort routine.

Rosabella pulls a chair over next to where she sat Apple, taking her own seat. A brown bear cub crawls its way over to her feet, looking up with pleading eyes. Unable to resist the cuteness temptation, she bends down and picks him up, placing the cub on her lap. “What’s going on, Apple? You’re mad at me because of Darling?”

“No! Never once have I been mad at you, Rosabella.” She tries to calm down again, looking at her with puffy eyes. “I’m truly sorry to have made you feel this way. You’ve done nothing to deserve this. You’re a wonderful girl- and I think you and Daring are perfect for one another!”

Rosabella scratches the head of the bear cub as she listens. Her brows furrow in even more confusion. “Well… Thank you, I suppose. That still doesn’t explain what Darling has to do with it,” she pointed out. A part of her still didn’t fully believe what she was saying.

“I believe… the reason you think I’m mad at you… is because…” Apple hesitated, scared to be admitting this. “I’m jealous of you and Darling!” she blurted out.

Again, not what Rosabella was expecting to hear. “What…? Why would you be-”

“I like her,” Apple said, cutting her off. “I really, really like her! And I’ve always wished I was as close with Darling as you are with her.” She wiped her eyes once more, meeting Rosabella’s gaze with the most sincerity she could give. “I’m sorry for ever coming across as rude to you because of this, it’s truly disenchanting of me.”

Though completely caught off guard, Rosabella smiles in a mix of disbelief and amusement. “That… makes a lot of sense… You know what, apology accepted. Thanks, Apple.” The little bear in her lap lets out a tiny growl of approvement, nuzzling its head into her hand. She giggles, giving it more pets. “Since we’ve finally cleared the air, can you tell me what’s upsetting you?”

“Ah, right.” She had almost forgotten. “Well… I was really beginning to think that I had a shot with Darling. She made it seem like she liked me. But just now, outside…” Her emotions come rushing back, but she tries to keep the tears from starting for the third time. “...I saw her sitting with Chase Redford.”

Rosabella’s face instantly scrunched up, cringing at that name. “Are you nonfiction? He actually came here to see her?”

Apple nodded. She instantly noticed the reaction from Rosabella, and it didn’t help how she felt about the situation. “Yeah. He and Darling were sitting at our spot on the fountain. They were talking, and then it looked like he was going to kiss her! I couldn’t watch, so I ran away.” Her bunny friend comes back over and hops onto her lap for support. “I’ve been too scared to ask her out, and because of it, I may never get the chance now…”

“Ooh boy…” Rosabella cringes even harder. “Chase has been trying to woo Darling for forever after, but she’s not into him at all.”

“Oh?” She looks up at her, hugging the bunny in her arms.

“Yeah. You have nothing to worry about, Apple. Chase Redford is most certainly not your competition when it comes to Darling. And neither am I,” Rosabella says with a laugh. She stands now, setting the bear cub at her feat. “So, was that all you were crying about?”

Apple nods, watching as she stood. “Mhm. But I feel much better now. Thank you, Rosabella!”

“Ah… Yeah, anytime…” She gives Apple a weird look. These damsel-in-distress types were eternally confusing to her, she didn’t understand what Darling saw in them. “How about we get your friends back outside? Last time Baba Yaga caught me sneaking animals around the school, I had to stay after class and sweep the dragon stables.”

“Right! Come on, everyone! Out you go now.” Apple stands, still holding the bunny, and all of the woodland animals begin scurrying out of the door and windows.

Rosabella watches in astonishment at how obedient they all are. “Wow! That was quick.”

Walking to the door herself now, Apple shrugs. “It’s easy when you can talk to them. I’m going to bring this baby back to her hollow. It’s her nap time.” The little bunny in her arms yawns as she says this. Giggling, she looks back to Rosabella. “Want to come with? It’s only a quick walk through the Enchanted Forest.”

She shakes her head, also walking to the door. “I’ve got class soon, but thanks for the offer.” Together, they walk down the hall and back into the main area of the castle. “I must say, it feels good to finally talk things out. You really mean it when you say Daring and I are right for each other?”

“Of course!” Apple says as she gives her bunny pets. “I think you make a spelltacular couple. And you’ve really done some work on him. I haven’t seen Daring with his face buried in a mirror in quite some time now.”

Rosabella laughs. “Trust me, it wasn’t easy. He was a real beast to tame.”

Eventually, Apple reaches the castle door, and she and Rosabella part ways. Heading down into the Enchanted Forest, she doesn’t see Darling or Chase by the fountain as she passes by. With what Rosabella told her about the two, Apple felt her sorrow from before wash away. She still had a chance, and little did she know it, but those chances were much higher than she thought.

Chapter 10

“There you go, sweetie.” Apple was on the forest floor, gently placing her bunny friend in its hollow. It hopped into the soft grassy hole, where its many siblings lay curled up against one another. The mama bunny sat outside of their home, watching as her children settled down for their mid-afternoon nap. When they were all in, she looked to Apple and nodded thanks. “You’re very welcome, Mrs. Hopps! Have a good day,” she said with a wave.

Suddenly, the mama bunny jumped up at something she saw, and ran down into the hollow with her children in fright. Apple was fairy confused, until the scent of bluebells hit her. “Apple! I missed you at lunch,” Darling said as she approached from the walking path.

Apple turned around, a coy smile on her face. “How did you find me out here?”

Darling reached a hand out, offering to help Apple up off the ground. “I saw Rosabella in the halls, she knew you were out here for some reason.”

Bashfully grabbing Darling’s hand, she stood and then brushed the dirt off her knees. “Oh, yeah! We were just talking.”

“What about?” She smiles down at Apple, happy to hear about her friends getting along.

‘You,’ Apple thought to herself. “Nothing important. Anyways, I’m sorry I didn’t join you for lunch. I saw you with someone and didn’t want to interrupt.” She debated on asking about how her talk with Chase went, but it turns out she didn’t have to.

Darling sighed, rubbing the back of her neck. “Yeah, that was Chase. He’s an old friend from Wonderland. You two might have met before?”

Apple feigns ignorance and acts like she hadn’t known who he was all along. “Ooh! Yes, I know him. He came a long way to visit.” Curiosity prodded at her. She had to know. “...What did you two talk about?”

“Actually,” Darling said with a shy smile. “That’s what I came to tell you.”

At that moment, Apple felt like she had been hexed. “R- Really?” What was Darling about to say?? Did Chase ask her out like Cupid predicted? What if she said yes?

“Yeah. He had come to ask me if I would like to go out with him.” Right again, Cupid. Before Apple had the chance to freak out, Darling continued speaking. “Unfortunately, I had to let him know that someone else already had my heart.”

Something in the air suddenly seemed to turn serene. This was not what she had expected. Apple felt her heartbeat fasten in anticipation. “I see… And who is this lucky someone?”

Darling took a step closer to Apple, moving with the confidence of someone who knows exactly what they want. “Who else could it be other than the fairest girl in the land?”

Her cheeks darkened, and a smile couldn’t help itself but find its way onto her face. “Darling…” Would it be inappropriate to describe this moment as something out of a fairytale? Because as the sunlight twinkled through the mystical trees of the Enchanted Forest, and as Apple’s knight in shining armor moved in to wrap her hand around her waist, it felt nothing short of the most spellbinding love story ever written.

“The very thought of being with anyone other than you is unfathomable, and Chase’s confession helped me realize that. No one else makes me feel both strong and beautiful at the same time. When we’re together, it’s like I’m finally seen for who I truly am.” Acting on her truest heart’s desires, every word Darling said was pulled straight from her soul. “I can’t see a version of my happily ever after without you in it.”

“Oh, Darling!” Apple returns the embrace, putting an arm around Darling’s waist as well. No confession of love she had ever received before could top this one, coming from the only girl she knew with a heart pure as gold.

“Please, Apple. Say you’ll be mine.” Darling puts a hand on her chin, her thumb gently brushing once over Apple’s cherry red lips. “I’d kiss you awake a thousand times more just to be with you.”

Shivers run down her spine. “...Then go ahead,” she says as she closes her eyes.

After yearning for this moment, imagining it countless times before, Darling leans in and lays a kiss so passionate on her fair maiden’s lips, it could evaporate a witch’s strongest poison in an instant. In fact, it was a kiss so strong, so sweet, it sunk deep into Apple’s mind and destroyed any and all doubts she had ever had about her love for Darling. From the branches of the Enchanted Forest swooped down a pair of white doves, singing their heartfelt song as they danced and flew in the air around the two real lovebirds. Though most certainly a tale as old as time, these two princesses had introduced to the Realm of Ever After a love so special, so new, that it would forever change the very meaning of the word amongst fairytale beings of all kinds. Proving that these truly were their own stories to write, the newest iteration of Snow White was set out to be the most idyllic and beautifully sapphic version yet.

End of Part 1.