Welcome to the seventh story of "Welcome To My Wicked World." From the title, I'm pretty sure you can tell who this is about.
Sofia's Day
The clock strikes 10:00 as another day is closing in the kingdom of Auradon. In Auradon Prep dormitory, Sofia returns to her room to see that Lonnie was already asleep. Sofia sneaks quietly to her bed. Since Lonnie was sleeping, Sofia saw an opportunity to write in her diary. But first, she needs light. She taps her amulet and it provided just enough light for her to see. She takes her diary out from under her pillow and opens it with the key she hid under the bed. She grabs her pencil and started writing.
"Dear diary,
I have to say that today was perhaps the most eventful day of my time here in Auradon Prep. Pretty enjoyable if I must say. What made this day very special started during self-defense classes this morning. Lonnie has always been the best in class, but today, she met her match..."
8:30 A.M.
It was time for the weekly self-defense class. The teacher is Mr. Yong, a friend of Fa Mulan and Li Shang. Instead of new lessons, Mr. Yong decided to see how much his students have learned by having them spar. Of course, he first calls forth his favorite student, Lonnie.
"Any one of you girls want to test yourself against Lonnie?" asked Mr. Yong. No girl answered, mainly because they're scared of Lonnie's skills. One girl raised her hand. It was Mal.
Mal and Lonnie were evenly matched to start, blocking and dodging each other's attacks. Mal gets the upper hand when she dodges a kick and then sucker-punches Lonnie in the face, causing her to fall on her back. Mal offers her hand and Lonnie takes it.
"Wow! You're good," said Lonnie, impressed. "Did your mom teach you to fight? I never thought of Maleficent as a hand-to-hand combat specialist."
"She didn't. I taught myself," answered Mal. "My friends did as well."
"Impressive, Mal. Impressive," complimented Mr. Yong. "Lonnie, why don't you sit down?"
Lonnie sits down next to Sofia.
"Anyone else?" asked Mr. Yong. Just like with Lonnie, every girl was too scared to try.
"Sofia wants to," said Lonnie.
"What?" reacted Sofia in surprise.
Lonnie pushes Sofia off the chair and on the mat.
"Don't worry. I'll go easy on you," assured Mal.
One second into the fight and Sofia gets knocked to the floor by one kick from Mal.
"Do you want to sit down?" asked Mr. Yong.
"No, I'll give it another go," said Sofia.
On her second try, Sofia was knocked down again, this time by a punch to the face. On her third try, Mal blocks Sofia's punch and knocks her to the floor with another punch.
"Maybe you should sit down before I give you a black eye," suggested Mal, actually concerned of hurting her friend.
"Psst, Sofia," called Evie. Sofia picks up herself and walks over to Evie, Jay, and Carlos.
"Do you want to know how we taught ourselves to fight?" asked Evie. Sofia nods.
"Instinct," said Carlos.
"Don't think. Just let your body tell you what to do," added Jay.
Sofia take a deep breath and steps back to the mat. Sofia took the VKs' advice and listens to her body as she blocks and dodges Mal's attacks. She locks Mal's arm and twirls, pushing the purple-haired sorceress to the floor.
"Wow," reacted Mal. "You used your instincts."
Sofia offers a hand and says, "Sorry."
Mal lets Sofia help her up and responds with "Don't be. We have these classes for a reason."
"Magnificent, Sofia. Absolutely magnificent," complimented Mr. Yong.
"...My face still hurts, but the pain was worth it. Maybe next time Maleficent shows up, I can put these lessons to good use. During recess, I made a new friend. Her name is Abigail, daughter of Alice in Wonderland. She wasn't exactly what I was expected, but Mal did tell me that Ben said you can be your own person, no matter who's your parent..."
9:36 A.M.
It was time for recess. Sofia was secretly feeding her animal friends. When she came out of the bush she was hiding, she accidentally bumped into someone. She saw a blonde girl wearing a blue mini dress as a uniform.
"Sorry," apologized the girl as she helped Sofia up.
"That's alright. I wasn't watching where I was going," said Sofia.
"Did you just come out from behind that bush?" asked the blonde.
"Yes..." answered Sofia nervously.
"Did you find a rabbit hole in there?" joked the blonde.
Sofia laughed. "No. Let me guess. Daughter of Alice?"
"The name's Abigail," introduced the girl. "And you must be Sofia."
"That's the name," confirmed Sofia.
"Again, what were doing behind that bush?" asked Abigail again.
"That's private," said Sofia. "What are you doing here so far away from everyone else?"
"I'm fed up with Audrey," said Abigail.
"Talk to me," said Sofia.
"Ever since day one, I've been like the little mouse in the corner. No one notices me," started Abigail. "I wasn't really good at making friends. So I started acting differently. I changed myself from a shy, timid girl to your typical teenage pretty girl. And it worked. I became part of Audrey's group, but..."
"But what?" asked Sofia.
"I just can't do it anymore. Acting like someone I'm not just to make friends. Audrey's great, but she's so self-centered, and I don't want to be like that," said Abigail.
"I understand how you're feeling," said Sofia.
"How do you know?" asked Abigail.
"Years ago, I made a friend in Royal Prep. Her name is Hildegard. She also wasn't good at making friends. To make people like her, she acted like she knows everything, but she doesn't," explained Sofia. "I helped her realize that she doesn't have to act different to be loved. Just be yourself. That's what matters."
"You really think so?" asked an unsure Abigail.
"Yes, I'm sure. Everyone in Royal Prep is beginning to like Hildegard for revealing the person she really is. Maybe it's time you do the same," said Sofia.
"I can see why people say you have the purest heart in the land," mentioned Abigail.
"They say that about me?" asked a confused Sofia.
"Yeah," answered Abigail. "Does it offend you?"
"Not at all," said Sofia. "I just wouldn't say that I have the purest heart. I have my flaws. Everyone has."
"I've just met you and I find that hard to believe," said Abigail.
"How 'bout you go see Lonnie and I'll do my business here?" suggested Sofia.
"Okay," agreed Abigail. Before she left she said, "Oh, and by the way, pretty amulet."
With Abigail at distance, Sofia returned to the bush.
"...Lonnie told me that everything went well with Abigail. Besides being the shy, timid type, she was also full of curiosity and has a tendency to be easily fascinated. Reminds me of her mother. After recess, it was Physics class. Unlike the other time, there was no explosion. Well, specifically, no explosion caused by me..."
10:11 A.M.
At Physics class, the students were learning how to mix chemical combinations. Mr. Deley decided that everyone should switch partners. Sofia was now working with Doug, Nathaniel is working with Abigail, and Evie is working with Chad.
"So, how are you fitting in?" asked Doug.
"Very well," answered Sofia.
"Made any new friends?" asked Doug.
"Abigail," answered Sofia. "How 'bout you? How are you and Evie?"
"We're good," answered Doug.
The conversation between the two were interrupted when an explosion happened.
"Alright, who caused that? This time?" asked a dusty Mr. Deley.
"He did!" yelled Evie, pointing at Chad.
"She did!" yelled Chad simultaneously with Evie, pointing at the latter.
"You added the wrong chemical," said Evie.
"You were doing all the work," said Chad.
"Since when do you care about science?" asked an annoyed Evie.
"You villain kids aren't the only ones who need to change," said Chad.
"Well, pardon me if I don't trust you," said Evie.
"Well, pardon me if I don't trust the daughter of Evil Queen," retorted Chad.
"Alright Chad, what's the order. A knuckle sandwich or a sleeping agent?" asked an irritated Evie.
Mr. Deley was trying to stop them, but before he can say anything, he is always cut off by one of the two. Sofia decided to get up and separates Evie and Chad.
"That's enough, both of you," said Sofia. "Why can't you two just get along?"
"Let's just say the history between us isn't very pleasant," said Evie.
"Mr. Deley, may we be excused?" asked Sofia. "I'd like to give these two a pep talk."
"Knock yourself out," responded Mr. Deley.
Sofia takes Evie and Chad outside of the classroom and to the hallway.
"Care to explain your history?" asked Sofia.
"When I first came here, I was... in love with Chad," started Evie. "He used my feelings against me, made me do his homework. Then he ditched me for Audrey and told Mr. Deley that I've been using my mirror to cheat."
"You liked me just because I was a prince," retorted Chad.
"You called me a gold digger and a cheater," said Evie back.
"You called me the 'biggest jerk in the land,'" snapped Chad.
"Alright, again, enough," interrupted Sofia.
"I guess this is the part where you put your Sofia magic into action," predicted Evie.
"Sofia magic?" a confused Sofia asked.
"Using your big heart to fix the problem," clarified Chad.
"Oh, well, yes. Yes, I will," said Sofia. "Now, from what I can tell in my short time here, change seems impossible, but, actually, you don't need to change. You just need to be the best person you can be."
"Don't you think me and my friends are trying?" pointed out Evie.
"And yet, you guys still like to pick a fight with anyone who aggravates you," mentioned Sofia. She turns to Chad and says, "And as for you, I seem to remember that Carlos said you're still a bully."
"I don't hit people," defended Chad.
"You pushed me after I called you, well, you know," reminded Evie.
"Before we get into another fight, may I speak?" said Sofia. Evie and Chad remained silent. Sofia says, "Now, from what I see, you two need to learn to socialize with each other, understand each other. That way, you can learn to cooperate with each other. Just promise me one thing, act like yourselves."
"And if that doesn't work?" asked Evie.
"Just don't try to hurt each other," responded Sofia.
"Alright," gave in Chad. "Shall we return to class, my lady?"
"Yes, we shall," answered Evie. She and Chad returned to the classroom together.
"...Everything worked out alright. After we cleaned up the mess, we finished our lesson. Evie and Chad did pretty well. Doug thinks their relationship will revert back to normal on the next day, but I hope this experience will help them get along naturally. After Physics, I was just putting my science textbook back in my locker when I saw Carlos running away..."
11:02 A.M.
Sofia takes her literature textbook out of the her locker before closing it. She was about to head back to the classroom when she saw Carlos running. He stops close by and found the janitor's closet to his left. He saw Sofia watching so, before he enter the closet, he gave her a "shh," meaning to keep quiet of his whereabouts. As soon as Carlos closed the door, Sofia heard a familiar voice, screaming
"Carlos!" yelled Mal.
She came around the same corner Sofia saw Carlos run by. It was obvious that Mal was looking for him. Mal continued to search for him as she walked past Sofia, who was facing her locker to avoid being questioned. As soon as Mal was out of sight, Sofia headed for the closet and knocks.
"Carlos, it's me. Sofia," said Sofia.
Carlos immediately opens the door and pulls Sofia inside.
"Would you be quiet?" burst Carlos. "I don't want Mal finding out where I am."
"Don't worry, she's gone," assured Sofia.
Carlos opens the door and saw that Mal isn't nearby. He walks out of the closet as did Sofia.
"Why is she mad at you?" asked
"Art class," started Carlos. "I was working on prototype paint bombs when... I accidentally blew up one of them on Mal's assignment."
"And she's very mad about that?" questioned Sofia.
"Hero or villain, Mal will still be extremely furious with anyone who messes with her artwork," explained Carlos.
"So, if she finds you...?" continued Sofia.
"She will either figuratively or literally kill me," finished Carlos.
"She would never do that. The worst she can do is curse you," said Sofia.
"It's Mal. You'll never know," said Carlos. "So, where are you going?"
"Literature class," answered Sofia.
"Can I come with you?" asked Carlos. "Because of my little accident, Ms. Lilac excused everyone from class."
"Sure," answered Sofia.
In literature class, Mr. Walson was teaching the students about Renaissance literature.
"So, class, who can tell me..." Mr. Walson was interrupted when someone burst through the door.
It was Mal.
"Carlos! I'm not done with you," yelled Mal.
"Um, Mr. Walson, can I take a bathroom break?" asked Carlos, clearly frightened of Mal's sudden appearance.
"Yes, you may," said Mr. Walson.
Soon, Carlos was on the run from Mal again. He made it to the boy's room and locks himself inside.
"You can't hide forever in there, Carlos," yelled Mal, slamming the door in anger.
"Hey, Mal," said someone, tapping her shoulder. It was Sofia.
"What do you want, Sofia?" asked Mal.
"I came here to take you," answered Sofia. "And him."
Sofia knocks on the door and said, "Carlos. Please, come out."
"No way," said Carlos.
"Mr. Walson is gonna be mad if we don't return to class soon," said Sofia. "Please, come out so we can settle this quickly."
"Tell Mal to leave and then I will," said Carlos.
"Can you leave us, please?" asked Sofia politely.
"Fine," answered an annoyed Mal. She turns back to the door and says, "You better watch your back." She walks away.
Carlos comes out and feels relieved that Mal isn't around.
"Carlos, are you afraid of Mal?" asked Sofia.
"Who wouldn't be?" answered Carlos. "Out of every bully that's picked on me on the Isle, she was the worst."
"And you're still afraid of her now?" asked Sofia.
"Again, who wouldn't be?" answered Carlos. "Sorry."
"Don't apologize. I understand," said Sofia. "You want to stop running from Mal, right?"
"Of course," responded Carlos.
"Then the best thing you should do is make it up to her. Clean up your mess. I'm sure she would appreciate that," said Sofia.
"I hope so," said Carlos.
"How about we get back to class?" suggested Sofia.
As the two walked back to the classroom, Carlos spoke. "I'm really glad you came here. To think that someone so young can be so full of wisdom."
Sofia smiled at his compliment. She wouldn't consider herself as someone full of wisdom, just someone full of compassion, but reflecting on her moments with Carlos made her see why he would think so.
Carlos' phone beeped. He received another message from Jane. It says, "Can you see me after school? I need help in physics again."
"It's Jane again, isn't it?" guessed Sofia.
"Don't mock me. She needs a friend," said Carlos.
"Wouldn't dream of it," assured Sofia.
"... Ben told me that Carlos fixed Mal's painting and she still got a high mark on it. The worst Mal did was punching Carlos on the shoulder. But what really made that moment memorable was the fact that Carlos sees me like 'The Goddess of Compassion.' It wasn't because I enjoyed being treated like that, but it's because that's what everyone seems to treat me like. That was further proven during lunch time..."
12:03 P.M.
Sofia was sitting alone on a table, not even wanting to eat her lunch. The sad look on her face is a dead giveaway that something is troubling her. She was soon joined by Ben, Audrey, Chad, Lonnie, Jane, and Doug. Sofia tried to hide her depression by thinking of something humorous to say.
"Doesn't it seem funny to you guys that I'm the only one in this table that's not a descendant?" started Sofia.
"Not every student in this school is a hero's kid," mentioned Ben.
"But you have to admit, it is pretty funny," said Audrey. "More like weird funny, not 'ha ha' funny."
"Hey, Mal told me what Carlos did," said Ben to Sofia. "You seems to have the answer for everything."
Ben's words made Sofia drift back into depression. Everyone noticed.
"Did I say something wrong?" asked Ben.
"No, you didn't," assured Sofia.
"Okay, something's bothering you," said Lonnie. "Most people would try to hide their problems, but..."
"... You can't solve a problem without a little help," interrupted Sofia. "I know. Sometimes, I use this saying when helping others."
"Then what are you hiding?" asked Audrey.
"Guys..." Sofia paused. "Be honest. Do you see me as like... a symbol of wisdom and compassion."
Everyone hesitated to answer. Sofia just went back to stirring her lunch without even eating it.
Audrey sighs and answers, "Yes, but what's the problem? Don't you like the attention?"
"Not really," answered Sofia. "Everyone I've met since coming here to Auradon has treated me like a hero, and to be honest, I don't really want to be treated like that."
"Who wouldn't want to be seen as a hero?" remarked Chad.
Lonnie elbows Chad's shoulder and said, "Not helping."
"Sorry," apologized Chad. "But seriously, how is people seeing you as a hero a bad thing?"
"It's not a bad thing. It's just that I don't want to be seen as Princess Sofia the First all the time," said Sofia. "I just want people to know me as Sofia, the girl from the village."
"Just one question. Do you hate being a princess?" asked Jane.
"No, of course not," answered Sofia. "I just want people to treat me like a normal person, that's all."
"I'm guessing we haven't," guessed Doug.
"You guys don't have to feel ashamed," said Sofia. "I guess I'm just feeling a little homesick."
"You said you wanted to see the rest of the world," reminded Chad.
"If you didn't want to leave your family, why did you?" asked Doug.
"Chad's reminder is pretty much the answer," said Sofia.
"Do you want to request a weekend visit to Enchancia?" offered Ben.
"Don't trouble yourself, Ben," responded Sofia. "This is my choice."
"You're certainly more than just a big heart," said Ben.
"You can say that again," said Sofia.
"If you don't mind if I ask, Sofia, has your father already decided who is next in line to the throne of Enchancia?" asked Audrey.
"Yes," answered Sofia. "But if I tell you, will you promise not to speak of it until the day comes?"
"Cross my heart," promised Audrey.
After a brief pause, Sofia says, "Me."
"Really?" reacted Chad, surprised.
"You heard it right. Me," further said Sofia.
"But you're the youngest? Why?" asked Doug.
"Amber's a little too self-centered, as father would say, and James would rather be a knight than a king," answered Sofia.
"Well, I think your father made the right choice," said Ben. "You have a brilliant mind and a pure heart. Enchancia can't ask for a better ruler."
"Everyone thinks so highly of me. I just wish I believe in myself," said Sofia.
"Have you read the stories about you?" pointed out Audrey. "Every child in Auradon looks up to you, commoner or future heir."
"So, Ben, if I can ask you a question, are planning on inviting new villain kids here to Auradon Prep?" asked Sofia.
"I would if I wanted to, but Mal talked me into making her my adviser on this matter," answered Ben.
"Speaking of villain kids, how's Harley?" wondered Lonnie.
"Who's Harley?" asked Sofia.
"Queen of Hearts' daughter," answered Lonnie.
"Her rehabilitation is a working progress," answered Ben. "I'm actually thinking about releasing her from prison soon."
"But you'll have to discuss that will Mal first, right?" guessed Sofia.
"Of course," confirmed Ben.
"Why is she in prison?" asked Sofia.
"Have you heard of the attack on the village by Queen of Hearts' soldiers?" asked Ben. Sofia nods. "Well, Harley is actually the one who conjured that scheme. I would've sent her back to the Isle of the Lost with her mother, but I decided to give her a chance."
"You can never be too kind," said Sofia.
"They always say not to judge a book by its cover," started Audrey. "From what I heard about you, I thought you were gonna to be a 'Little Miss Perfect' type of princess, but getting to know you, I see you're just... ordinary. No offense."
"No, no. I take that as a compliment," said Sofia. To her own surprise, she found herself actually eating her lunch. She knows this means that she no longer feels sad. Her new friends are starting to see her for the person without the tiara and that was turning her frown up-side down. "You guys are great friends."
"...Such nice friends I've made here in Auradon Prep. Audrey is still hard to get used to, but I know things will work out alright. After lunch, it was music class. It was time for my presentation with Mal. We had a long, and I repeat, long discussion of who will sing and who will play the guitar. In the end, we decided that I will sing and she will play. Nathaniel was nice enough to give Mal some lessons..."
12:58 P.M.
"Mal, Sofia, you're up," said Ms. Parson.
Sofia gets up and was about to get on the stage, but Mal didn't want to get up. Sofia can tell she was nervous.
"C'mon, Mal. Time to put those lessons to action," said Sofia. "I believe in you."
Motivated, Mal gets up and walks with Sofia to the stage. Sofia gets a good grip on the microphone while Mal was getting ready to strum.
"Song title?" asked Ms. Parson.
"I Won't Give Up," answered Sofia. She takes a deep breath and started signing.
...
For the longest time, I've felt so lost
Felt like I was caught in the frost
Don't know where I was going
The cold air just keeps on blowing
But my spirit just keeps on glowing
XXX
I have always dreamed for this moment
But it feels like a nightmare
I crumble every second
But I always remember to breathe the air
XXX
I won't give up
XXX
For the longest time, I lost myself
My true colors high up the shelf
Out of my reach, I know, I've tried
But all I need is a guide
And I be caught in a landslide
XXX
I have always dreamed for this moment
But it feels like a nightmare
I crumble every second
But I always remember to breathe the air
XXX
I won't give up
Even in my darkest times
In the grueling nighttime
I won't give up
...
Sofia takes a bow and she receives an ovation. She looks at Mal and smiled at her, letting her know that she did a great job. They looked at Ms. Parson and she seemed very impressed.
"Wonderful, both of you," said Ms. Parson. "Sofia, you certainly have the voice of an angle. And Mal, last time I heard you play the guitar, you were awful. How did you improve so quickly?"
"Your favorite student, Nathaniel," answered Mal.
Everyone looks at Nathaniel and they applaud for him. Nathaniel stands up and bows, proud of himself.
As soon as class ended, Mal and Sofia approach Nathaniel.
"Hey, Nathaniel," called out Mal. "I can't believe I'm saying this, but... thank you."
"You're welcome, mademoiselle," responded Nathaniel with a bow. He looks at Sofia and says, "So, milady, have you made up your mind about an evening with me?"
Sofia hesitated for a moment until she spoke. "I'm sorry, Nathaniel, but it's a no. I respect you and I'm happy to have you as a friend, but... no."
"If that is what you wish. Let me know if you change your mind," said Nathaniel as he left the classroom, winking at Sofia.
"He's still hitting on you?" asked Mal.
"Doesn't it seem obvious?" answered Sofia. "If there's one thing I won't miss here in Auradon Prep..."
"It's him," finished Mal.
"Not him, specifically. Just his attempts to ask me out," cleared Sofia. "So, how are you and Ben?"
"Ever since he took me to see the Enchantress, I say things are working out just fine," answered Mal.
"The Enchantress?" asked a shocked Sofia.
"Yeah, that Enchantress," confirmed Mal. She notices Sofia clutching her cheek. "Still hurts?"
"You pack quite a wallop, I have to admit," said Sofia.
"...Mal offered to get some ice, but I didn't really need any. I'm sure the pain will be gone by morning. The final session of the day was the monthly visit of Mr. Lance for driving class. I didn't attend last month's class because I was terrified, but Audrey motivated me into trying it out this month. After all, she took Mr. Lance's class during the summer and she got a good enough grade to pass, which, of course, explains why she has a car..."
3:11 P.M.
Everyone who has chosen to attend the monthly driving class are currently watching Carlos de Vil finish his test. From the students' point of view, Carlos was performing tremendously. He followed every rule of the road as shown by his correct response to a stop light, using his blinkers at an intersection, and what impressed the students the most is his steady driving. Mal, Evie, and Jay know that Carlos has driven in his mother's car before, so, more or less, he knows how to drive. As soon as Carlos reached the finish line of the driving track, his friends cheered for him.
"You are quite the driver, Mr. de Vil," complimented Mr. Lance. "Are you sure you haven't done this before?"
"The first time I drove my mom's car was when I was just 10," said Carlos. "So, what did I get?"
"You followed all the rules perfectly and your driving was exquisite," started Mr. Lance. "I can safely say that you get an A+."
Mr. Lance gives Carlos his score sheet and the young man cheers. He exits the car and shows his fellow VKs his grade. Sofia saw his grade and she was happy for him.
"Alright, the last person on the list is... Princess Sofia," announced Mr. Lance.
Sofia started feeling nervous. Seeing her state, Audrey decided to talk to her.
"Don't worry, Sofia, I know you can do this. And if it makes you feel any better, I didn't pass the test on my first try. But I learned from my mistakes and believed in myself that I can do it," she said. "I think you can do it, too."
Sofia was still a little shaken, but she felt a hand on her shoulder. It was Carlos.
"Piece of advice..." he started. "Take a deep breath, swallow your fear, and focus on the task at hand 100%. That's how I did it."
Sofia approaches Mr. Lance and enters the vehicle. She did as Carlos told her. She took a deep breath, swallowed her fear, and took hold of the steering wheel.
"Alright, Princess Sofia, just ease your foot off the break and drive," instructed Mr. Lance.
Sofia started driving. She drove slowly and carefully as she tries her best to balance the steering wheel. She perfected her turns and stopped at a red light. The next part of the course is parallel parking. She ignores the shaking of her hands and takes another deep breath. She put the car in reverse and perfectly parks in between two trash cans. The smile on Mr. Lance's face tells Sofia that she did alright.
Sofia continues the rest of the driving course, learning how to use her blinkers, paying attention to speed limits, and more. She reached the finish line and saw her friends clapping for her.
"Princess Sofia," started Mr. Lance. "I must admit, I expected more." The sound of this made Sofia shake. "But I must also admit that you did a fine job." He writes her score on the sheet and gives it to her. "B-. You passed."
Sofia immediately exited the vehicle and gave both Carlos and Audrey a big hug. She showed them her score sheet.
"Thank you. Both of you," said Sofia, gratified.
"Don't mention it," responded Carlos.
"You're welcome," responded Audrey. "After you get your license, how 'bout I help you find a car?"
"Don't let her rub off on you," protested Carlos.
"Not very nice," retorted Audrey.
"I think I should be going," said Carlos. "Don't want to stoop to Mal's level when it comes to 'her.'"
Audrey feels offended, but the tech prodigy left before she could say anything. Sofia can only smile, a little amused of the brief scuffle between her friends. She takes a look at her score sheet again and she was truly proud of herself. At the same time, she wasn't at all too surprised with herself, because she has faced countless of challenges since her first day as a princess and she conquered every one of them.
"Congratulations, Sofia," said Lonnie.
"Thanks. I'm sorry you failed," said Sofia.
"It's not your fault," responded Lonnie. "If it's anyone's fault, it's mine. Remember that wise saying, 'Only you are responsible for your failure'?"
"Yes," answered Sofia. "But no one knows success if they don't understand failure."
"Your morals have limitless depth," said Lonnie. "You're definitely going to make a great queen one day. Maybe the best."
"I have no intention of becoming the best queen in existence. Princess or queen, I will always be Sofia," said Sofia.
"...As soon as I get my driver's license, I'm going straight to the car shop to buy my own car. Of course, I have to thank Carlos and Audrey. I wouldn't have passed the test without their help. I think I should do the same for Lonnie. Speaking of Lonnie, she's been like my best friend here in Auradon Prep. Besides the fact that we're roommates, she's a very interesting person. A hip-hop music lover and a martial arts specialist. But what I appreciate most about her is her big heart. She's a very compassionate person. Ben certainly picked a wonderful roommate for me.
The only thing that could've ruined this day is this great evil the Enchantress spoke of showing up. It's in my head every second of every day, but I'm not gonna let that stop me from enjoying my time here. When it does come, I'll have my friends to back me up. It hurts me to keep this a secret from them, but I'm sure they'll understand once I explain it to them."
Sofia finishes writing in her diary and closes it. She locks it up and puts the key back under her bed. As she tucks herself to sleep, she takes a look at the picture she placed next to her bed. A picture of her family. She still feels awful about lying to them about her reason for coming to Auradon Prep. She already knew what it's like to keep a secret, but this was different. She had a good reason for keeping her amulet's magic a secret, but this time, she was hiding that fact that she is risking her life to save an entire kingdom. She was afraid of facing her family when she finally reveals her secret, but she knows they love her no matter what, and she let that thought give her courage, which she will keep when the time comes.
She closes her eyes and falls asleep, thinking peaceful thoughts in order for her to have a peaceful slumber.
I hope this story is well-written and I hope you all love it. Leave a review.
