Hurtful Reality

Kyan was startled by the princess's statement. He couldn't believe what he'd just heard. Anya laughed and he stared at her, puzzled.

Did she really mean it?

"I was just kidding. The look on your face is hilarious" she said and he smiled, feeling relieved.

"I'm sorry for making you feel uncomfortable" she apologized and he shook his head.

"You don't have to apologise"

Anya snickered and looked away, an expression of weariness now imprinted on her face.

"Want to talk about it?" Kyan dared to ask and Anya turned to look at him, her attention piqued.

"You're one of a kind, Kyan. Most guards would rather keep their mouth shut than speak to me. And, I like that you're different" Anya said and Kyan nodded.

"You're also a lot different than I thought" he said and she smiled.

"I could really use a friend at this point. I've not really gotten along with anyone in this palace. My fiance doesn't like me, either" she told him.