Six: What if Hugo wasn't a jerk

Episode: Just one of the princes.

"Come on! Ugh!"

Sofia placed a hand to her chest as she fell off of Minimus. Guess getting on a flying horse wasn't as easy as riding an old mop.

"Here, let me help," a voice offered, helping her off the ground.

It sounded familiar. Could it be…

"Hugo?" Sofia asked in surprise, brushing off dust from her riding jersey. "What are you doing here?"

The prince shrugged, brushing his bangs from his face.

"I saw you and James this morning but you seemed to be struggling so I thought I would help you."

Sofia blushed a little, biting her lip.

"I guess the princes are just better at this. Even James seemed against me joining the Flying Derby last night because he doesn't want anyone to make fun of him for helping me."

"You're proving a point that anything can be a princess thing and I admit you're doing a good job at it," Hugo smiled, nudging her playfully. "Where is James anyway?"

"Getting me water. And a riding helmet. I forgot mine at home this morning," Sofia smiled bashfully. "You really think I can do it?"

It was Hugo's turn to be bashful as he helped her aboard Minimus, earning a giggle from the young princess.

"I think you can."

"Thank you."

Sofia felt a tint of crimson hit her cheeks. Was she having her first crush? Hugo was cute but he was Amber's or so she thought.

"Hugo, step away from Sofia!" James growled, handing her the cup of water. "I swear if you did anything to her while I was gone, I'll kick your—"

"Easy there James. I only helped her get on her horse," Hugo interrupted with a smirk.

"You did what?! I was supposed to help her with that!"

"I think she preferred someone who saw her struggling and offered to help as opposed to waiting until you got back."

Unerved by her brother's bewildered expression, Sofia giggled as Hugo kissed her hand before walking off to his own horse.

Maybe with James' help, maybe she wouldn't be able to blush around Hugo if she was distracted with practice while hoping they both would win.

If they did, it would be a huge relief as how could you ride with your crush right beside you.