Hi everyone! Sorry for such a long wait for an update! I'll tell you this, I have never been so busy before in my life! I quickly threw this chapter together, just to let you all know that I'm good and that I'm still working on this story! Hopefully you enjoy!
xxx
The Obvious Wishes
Bloom walked awkwardly down a gravel path in a kingdom she had never visited before.
She could feel the piercing stares of the people she walked by.
Why were they all staring at her? Did she look stupid? She knew she shouldn't have worn the pink dress, covered in lacy, but Diaspro had made such a big deal when she saw Bloom in her ripped up jeans.
She just hoped this outfit was more appropriate to what alternate Bloom would wear.
The eyes burned a hole in the back of her head, making her even more nervous and uncomfortable.
Did these people know who she was? Did they know that she wasn't from this world? What had tipped them off? Did she walk a certain way? Maybe Nick taped a sign to her back?
Her eyes flicked to Nick, who didn't look any more comfortable than she felt. His hands were stuffed deep in his pockets, his eyes downcast on the path. He looked distant.
Bloom felt silly. Of course nobody knew she wasn't from this world. Nick obviously didn't tape a sign to her and there weren't letters written above her head. She was just being paranoid.
With good reason.
As soon as she had hung up the phone from talking with Sky, Nick lost it. He warned her how she was walking on a dangerous path. He was right, which made Bloom feel worse about everything. She was walking on a dangerous path. She never should have answered the call from Sky.
She found it hard to explain, even to herself. She loved Sky, there was no question about that. She planned to go back to her home world, no doubt. Yet, she felt like it was not her place to love him in this world. She was scared that she would hurt too many people. She didn't want to cause anybody pain, even if she wasn't planning on staying around. Even if this wasn't her reality, it was the reality to everybody that she had met so far. She couldn't mess up the lives of so many. She would be back home soon anyways; it didn't matter if she had to suffer a little to get there. Bloom could handle not being in Sky's arms for another few days, since she knew she would be heading back to a world where that was common. The princess could suffer a little bit. She could handle it.
She just needed to be home before the wedding of Diaspro and Sky, which was in a few days time. It would kill her to watch that, even if she would be going home. She didn't know if she could ever look at Sky the same, knowing that he had been married in a different world. At their wedding in their world, Bloom would be thinking of Diaspro's wedding. It was childish, but she was scared. She was scared that Sky's interactions with Diaspro would hurt their relationship.
Bloom couldn't show her love for Sky. It would mess everything up. Going on a "date" with him would put a strain on everyone. What if she messed up? What if she slipped up and said something? Or worse, what if she forgot where she was and began acting like she was actually on a date with him.
Nick was right. It was a very dangerous path, indeed. She shouldn't have answered that phone call. She should have just been focusing on finding a way back home.
But she did answer the call. She threw herself into a social life in this alternate world, even though she didn't want one. Only confusion would come from it. Now, she had a date with Sky the next day.
Even worse, Nick had her call her… friends.
No, not the Winx Club. Her friends from this world. Nick had forced her to call Diaspro and Krystal, both of whom she had run into the previous day and had acted strange to. He told her that she needed to make it up to them, and she agreed. It was obvious she had caused both of them pain. Plus, if she could handle spending time with Sky, she could spend time with these girls. Of course, she didn't like these girls in her world, but at least she could practice pretending how to act with them.
Bloom honestly didn't know when her attitude changed. Just earlier that day, she oculdn't stand the thought of Diaspro. She was upset with everything and everyone due to her relationship with Diaspro, as well as the fact she had other friends that weren't the Winx. Diaspro would never be her first choice for a friend, but, somehow, Nick had convinced her to give it a shot. He had explained to her that this girl was a different person – one that didn't deserve to be treated poorly.
Bloom agreed.
She couldn't view Diaspro as her enemy. She had to view this girl as her friend that was worried about her. In this world, Diaspro was just that – a friend. They never fought over the same guy, they never became enemies, and they always trusted each other. Nick told her to view Diaspro as a girl that looked the same and had the same name as the Diaspro she knew, since everything else was different.
That is how she ended up here.
On Eraklyon, in the Kingdom of Isis.
Where Diaspro was Crown Princess of.
Bloom wanted to run away. She wanted to run to her room. She wanted to run back to her home world. She wasn't ready for this. She didn't think she'd ever be ready for this.
But she kept her feet steady and her heart calm. There was no need to panic.
She had to blend in, so she let her servants dress her and style her. She looked like she did in many pictures of herself on her cell phone. It was almost like she was molded into a different person.
Nick had also spoken to her. He explained her personality deeper, hoping she would be able to act closer to who she actually was. Bloom was wrong when she originally thought that her personality in this world was similar to Stella's. She was a warrior, not a princess, as Nick explained to her. She was never the one to care about politics – it was all about power and reaching her full potential. Growing up as the younger sister the the Keeper of the Dragon Flame had obviously pushed Bloom towards working hard to keep up with her.
Of course, she was interested in fashion, gossip, and parties, but she was more than what Bloom originally thought. She was one that grew up wanting to go to Alfea College, wanting to learn to be a Guardian Fairy, and fighting evil. Bloom was glad that at least that one thing had stayed the same between worlds – Bloom had a passion for fighting for what was right.
All Bloom had to remember was to not be awkward with her friends. That was the main thing. She also had to focus on being someone that wasn't always excited. As Nick described her, the alternate Bloom liked to keep to herself. She had a good poker face, from what she understood. The alternate Bloom was a planner, she was one to always take in the surroundings and never make a rash decision. She had a plan for everything and every action was done for a reason. The alternate Bloom sounded like she was friendly and outgoing, but never took things too lightly and always knew the next step. She was a strategist and an observer, two qualities that made a fine warrior.
Nick also explained how advanced Bloom was. She might not have been the Keeper of the Dragon Flame, but she had worked very hard on keeping up with her sister. She had a strained relationship with Daphne, as Bloom always was jealous of her getting the throne and the Dragon Flame. They worked tirelessly to outdo each other.
That news made Bloom sad. Back home, she would give anything to get her sister back. She would have given anything so Daphne wouldn't have to suffer. In this world, they didn't see eye to eye. It was painful. They didn't deserve that.
Knowing that Daphne and her never saw eye to eye in this world made her feel regret. She didn't regret anything that she did specifically. She didn't regret anything from her world. No. She regretted what her alternate self did. Rather, she regretted what alternate Bloom did. One day, alternate Bloom would find herself in a world without her older sister and have regrets. Life shouldn't be wasted. Life should never be taken for granted. Yet, alternate Bloom took alternate Daphne for granted. She never knew the life without her. She never thought of a world without Daphne. Bloom lived that life. She knew how precious life was. She knew not to take anything for granted – anything could be the last minute. Bloom hoped that her alternate self figured this out before it was too late.
Bloom shook her head, focusing her thoughts. She quickened her pace down the path, ignoring the possible stares from the people.
Just like Nick, her hands were buried deep in her pockets, picking at the fluffs the lined them. She was just glad this dress had pockets, so she could awkwardly place her hands there.
She let her mind wander.
The path that she wandered down was nice. It was a small and winding path, filled with people bustling about their business. It radiated a homey feeling, drawing her closer and closer to the castle. She felt warmed and welcomed by the vibes the path gave her, even though the stares had her stressed out. Even though she was walking towards her enemies slash friends, she felt at peace. It was a feeling she lacked in this world.
Along the sides of the path were marble benches, welcoming the citizens to sit and relax. Most benches were filled with people – most wore active gear. Bloom assumed that this was a path frequented by runners and joggers.
Each step Bloom took, the more anxiety and fear grew in her stomach. Each step she took, the closer she was to meeting Diaspro once again. To top it all off, it wasn't just Diaspro she was meeting up with. It was her whole group of friends; Diaspro, Varanda, Krystal, and Galatea. A feeling of sickness grew in her stomach. Why had she allowed Nick to talk her into calling Diaspro? Why had she let him talk her into coming to visit them? Why? Why, why, why, why? She was going to get torn apart – she really didn't know what she was getting herself into. Why did she agree?
Even though she was panicking on the inside, she was the picture of perfection on the outside. She had removed her hands from her pockets, holding them together in front of her body. Her shoulders were back and her back was straight. Her chin was pointed and she stared evenly. Her feet fell at a constant rhythm.
She would not run.
She would not show signs on panic.
She would go, meet with her friends, and act like everything was alright.
She had to stay strong. She had to live this life to go home. She had to.
She fell into a rhythm, finding calmness with the scratching gravel under her foot. The soft breeze in her hair made a tiny smile break free, letting the peacefulness of nature take over.
Bloom was thankful for her brother. Even though she had treated him terribly, he had stuck with her. He was such a pure person – it didn't take a genius to see that. His heart was pure gold. He was very selfless and kind, more so than anybody she knew in her world. Somehow, she had taken a liking to him. Without him, she wouldn't have been surviving like she was. She would be struggling. She would be depressed. She wouldn't have survived.
He was starting to grow on her. She would miss him when she returned to her home world.
They reached the gates to the beautiful, golden castle. The guards that were standing on duty bowed to each royal and let them in. Bloom snorted.
"They don't even have to ask our names?" Nick glanced over to her, a small smile on his lips.
"Bloom, you come here a few times a day," he replied. Bloom felt a shiver go up her spine. How was it possible for her life to be so different? In her world, she never visited the castle once before in her life. Multiple times a day, she would go visit Alfea or one of her friends. Never in her wildest dreams did she imagine that this would be the case with Diaspro. Not even in a different world.
Nick took the lead, seeing Bloom had no idea where to walk to get to Diaspro's wing of the castle. Guards lined the walls, but paid no attention to the Domino royals.
Bloom could tell that something was wrong with Nick. He still had his hands stuffed deep inside his pockets, his shoulders were slumped slightly, his eyes darted around the room, and he liked his lips multiple times.
"What's wrong?" Bloom whispered to him, leaning in so her lips were near his ears. He jolted out his thoughts, glancing towards Bloom. Their eyes connected and Bloom felt her heart break. His eyes looked frightened and broken. Shouldn't her eyes look like that? Not his?
"Oh." He removed his hands from his pockets, holding them together in front of his body, much similar to Bloom. "I just, uh, well, I actually haven't spoken to Varanda since our parents agreed to the arranged marriage."
Bloom felt so stupid. Of course. How could she be so foolish? He had told her earlier that he was set to marry the Crown Princess of Callisto, instead of his true love, Aisha. His heart still was held by the dead princess.
It was so tragic.
Bloom wished she could bring her brother away from all of the pain. She wanted to wrap her arms around him, protecting him from the world around her. It wasn't fair what this young man had gone through. He was only 18 years old, yet he had suffered from two arranged marriages, as well as a lost love.
Bloom wanted to cry for him.
It was even worse. She was leading him to a room with his next wife. He obviously was in pain from this. Why had she asked him to come?
That's right. She needed someone to help guide her through the conversation. She had no idea what to say or how to act. She had the basic idea, but, if these friends were as good as Nick's claimed, they would see any flaw in her actions. She wasn't the best liar and Nick was quick on his feet – she needed him to get through this meeting.
Bloom stopped walking, reaching out and catching his elbow. He stopped walking and spun to face her. He had a small frown on his face, but, otherwise, he hid his discomfort well. Bloom frowned deeply.
"Nick, you don't need to be here," she told him. His eyebrows pulled together.
"Wha-"
"You don't think I can't see how nervous you are? You're dreading seeing Varanda," she pointed out. They stared intently at each other for a few moments, neither of them breaking the gaze. Finally, he closed his eyes and let out a breath of air. His face relaxed, but it still held a slight amount of pain.
"It's that obvious?" he asked, cracking his eyes open the slightest. Bloom sighed and gripped his elbow tighter.
"No, Nick, but I know you." He laughed, causing her to smile the slightest. "Okay. Not exactly true. I don't know you, but I know those eyes." He opened his lids and the blue orbs connected. "They're my eyes. They're just as open as mine are. I can read them like a book."
"Oh." He rubbed his forehead. "Yeah, I'm a little nervous to see Varanda – we never really talked much – but I'm just more so worried that I'll disappoint her. She threw away her life for me by insisting to be my wife. She's too good for me. As soon as she'll get to know me, I'm worried she'll hate herself – and me – for the decision she made." Nick looked away awkwardly. "I'm not exactly likeable." Bloom stifled a laugh.
"That's funny," she said darkly. He narrowed his eyes.
"What's so funny?"
"You're probably the most likeable person I know," Bloom answered honestly. "You're a kind person. Even if you don't have feelings for each other now, it is hard not to love you. You are a good person, Nick. From the sounds of it, so is she. She knew what she was getting herself into." Nick smiled sadly.
"I just want to be what she wants. She gave me an out. I owe her my life." Bloom swallowed hard.
"Don't talk like that," she chided. "Don't get too ahead of yourself. Just talk to her like she's a person. I bet she doesn't want anything to change between the two of you." Bloom dropped her hold on his elbow and they began walking towards Diaspro once again. Nick held an unreadable expression on his face, but Bloom could still sense his distress. "Don't sweat it."
"Easy for you to say," he muttered. Bloom pointedly stared at him. He caught her glare and he smiled sheepishly. "Okay. Sorry. That was stupid."
"It's not like I'm walking towards meeting four girls that have caused me so much grief before. Why am I meeting these girls again?"
"We agreed to let you live this alternate life as best as possible. When we get you home, alternate Bloom will be back, and she'll have to fix the mess we created. I'd rather not get torn apart by her for letting you ruin her life." Bloom rubbed her temple.
"My head hurts," she admitted. Nick shrugged. It made sense. These people didn't deserve to get their lives turned upside down, just because hers was. She had to act as normal as possible. She couldn't ruin these lives, even if these people were in a different world. The guilt would eat away at her for the rest of her life.
Each step they took towards the castle, the more sick Bloom felt.
Was this the right choice?
Sorry the chapter ended so strangely! I have an 8 page paper due in 36 hours so I hope you understand! (And yes, procrastination is great!)
Update on personal life: Last time I updated here, I told you all that one of my family members had gotten really sick. It saddens me to let you all know that my grandmother passed away in late August. She was one of the strongest people I have ever met in my life and was truly someone I looked up to every day. She was beyond kind to everyone, even if those people didn't always deserve her heart of gold. Her passing has left a void in my life. Death is just a part of life, but that doesn't take any pain away from me. I miss her everyday, and everyday that passes, I think of her. This is really hard for me to write, and I don't want to put too much detail here, but all I'm trying to say is death happens and it's hard. Spend every moment like it would be your last - you never know what is going to happen. Put others before yourself. Tell your family you love them. Make memories when you can. Spend time with those you love, doing things that you love. Enjoy and live life to the fullest with everyone that graces your life. I wish I did this more often. Even though my grandma is gone, she will never be forgotten - I have my memories. She touched so many people that she will be spoken of highly for generations to come.
Alright. Enough sad stuff.
Thank you to all who have reviewed the last chapter! Due to my personal reasons, travel, and school starting, I haven't been able to reply to all. Please know that I have read every one of them and I appreciate it! All of the reviews/reads/favourite/follows/PMs are truly amazing and they make me so emotional. I love each of you so much. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. You make me want to write, as well as bring much happiness to me. Thank you.
I don't plan for the next update to be for a few days. I haven't started the next chapter - I just rushed to get this one out AND school is so intense! I hope you all understand.
As always, I accept any types of reviews. It doesn't take too long to leave a review and make me smile!
Much love,
Pawprinter
P.S. - For updates on my personal situation as well updates on writing, please visit me on Twitter (Pawprinter1).