The Festival (1)

"You can't change my mind. We will not go."

It had been three days since I asked Papa to go with me to the festival. Though I always get the same response, I continue to persuade Papa in the hopes that he would agree. I follow him every time and act cute, but nothing goes my way. Sigh, I really want to go to the festival with Papa. Tomorrow is the festival celebration, and this is my last chance. If I can't persuade him, I won't be able to attend the festival.

I will definitely make him go with me!

***

"What is it now, Brielle? Whatever you do, my answer will be the same," Papa said with a confident look.

Hmph, you think I'm not prepared. This time I'm sure you will surrender. "Papa."

"What?" he replied.

"I will no longer give you a kiss. "Papa's face darkened as I said those words. His eyes widened and he appeared to be at a loss for words. Maybe, I overdid it.

"Papa?"

"...."

"I'm sorry. I just really want to come to the festival. Can't we go?" I said, my eyes welling up with tears.

"Sigh, Brielle, don't cry. I'm not angry. Okay, we will attend the festival," said Papa. When I heard those words, my face brightened. I can't believe it; Papa and I will go to the festival. I did it! I succeeded.

"Finally, you are now smiling. "Papa gave a gentle smile while looking at me. "Papa, I love you", then I kissed him on the cheeks.

***

Today is the day of the festival. I can't hide my excitement as we prepared to depart.

"You must wear this to avoid attracting human attention," Papa said while putting on the black cloak. Then, he transformed into a wolf and I rode on his back. Whenever we were going to the capital, Papa liked to be in his wolf form because humans tend to be fascinated toward his face. Indeed, Papa is a beauty.

Finally, we are leaving! We traveled into the forest, passing by towering and dense forest trees, animals rooting in the underbrush, and lush green grass that blanketed the ground. After our quick journey, we are finally here.

The capital's typical busy hum resonated in my ears. Every corner was filled with colorful decorations and flower arrangements. Children in fancy attire, accompanied by their parents, happily exploring the event. Many food stalls sell tasty treats such as sugared apples, grilled beef, and sweet fluffy sweets in the shape of a cloud. Festival is sure amazing!

"Let's try that, Papa," I suggested, pointing to the sugared apples.

After purchasing some sugared apples, we went to another shop that offers children's toys. Stuffed animals, dolls, and storybooks are all sold in the shop. Also, we went to the dress shop. We could only stare through the glass window because Papa couldn't come in, and I wasn't dressed up in fancy clothes like the other kids. There are so many beautiful dresses, colorful hats, and sparkling shoes. Even though I like those dresses, we only have 10 silvers left. Food is the most important thing. So, let's buy food.

"Papa, l want to buy some meat"

***

"What is your order, little one?" smilingly asked the meat vendor.

"Grilled meat," I replied, handing him the ten silver coins I had in my pocket.

"Oh, but our grilled meat cost 15 silver." My face was saddened as I heard that we were short of money.

"But I will only give it to you in 10 silvers since you are cute," he added. Then, he handed the bag of grilled meat to me. Papa grabbed the bag using his mouth and carried it.

"Thank you, Mister." The meat vendor stared at me and was about to pat my head, but Papa scowled at him. He then stepped back and smiled awkwardly.

***

"What a bastard! Dare to pat your head," said Papa, angrily.

"Don't get mad, Papa". As we proceeded down the street, I said, "Let's just enjoy the festival." While we continued to walk down the street, a familiar voice called out my name.

"Brielle! Brielle! Brielle!" I turned around to see who it was. To my surprise, it was Max. He was running toward me, dripping with sweat.

"Brielle, you're here!" Max said after he gasped for his breath. "You should inform me that you will be here. By the way, where is your father?"

"He has something urgent to do," I said as an excuse.

Max noticed Papa, who was a wolf at that time, "Is that your pet?"

No way! You should not address Papa as such, Max. When I looked at Papa's face, I could tell he was mentally cursing Max.

"Is it okay if I pet it? Can you tell me his name?" He was going to pet Papa's head, luckily, I intervened.

"No, you can't. He doesn't like to be touched." At this stage, you will lose your arm if you ever touch Papa!

"Is that so... what a choosy dog," Max said. At the moment Max said those words, Papa lost his patience. He was about to attack Max. I need to do something. Ugh, I don't know anymore, "Papa, stop!"